NEW YORK (WABC) — Jon Buret, a 27-year-old New York native known online as “The Well Rounded Human,” has built a large social media following by encouraging strangers to make healthier food choices.<\/p>\n
Buret, whose videos regularly begin with a simple proposition to passersby, has amassed nearly 1 million followers who watch him offer to pay for meals if people agree to choose healthier options.<\/p>\n
Buret said he is starting to get recognized more often but his interest in nutrition began long before his social media success.<\/p>\n
“I studied nutrition in school and had been doing personal training…focusing on your nutrition is the number one thing you can do to feel your best,” he said.<\/p>\n
His videos capture reactions from strangers confronted with his signature offer. While many are receptive, Buret said not every interaction goes smoothly.<\/p>\n
“I’ve been cursed out before, I’ve also been asked out on a date,” he said.<\/p>\n
One recent encounter introduced him to Carlos, who quickly accepted the challenge.<\/p>\n
The pair headed to Matter on Crosby Street, one of Buret’s favorite spots.<\/p>\n
Buret said that when he first started creating the videos about a year ago, he paid for all the meals himself. Sponsorships now help support the project.<\/p>\n
“I definitely spend over six figures on other people’s food,” he said.<\/p>\n
But Buret said the experience is about more than helping people select healthier meals. He values the conversations and connections that come from meeting New Yorkers from different backgrounds.<\/p>\n
“It’s very interesting to get to know all these different New Yorkers and their stories,” he said.<\/p>\n
His videos have also featured notable encounters, including one with rapper and songwriter Gashi. In another instance, Buret bought all of the fruit from two women selling it and gave it away for free.<\/p>\n
“I don’t want to say I’ve changed these people’s lives but people have told me I’ve helped change their habits,” he said.<\/p>\n
For Carlos, the experience made a lasting impression.<\/p>\n
“Now I’m definitely going to remember the face, that’s my man and the handshake for sure,” he said.<\/p>\n
Buret said the project has become a source of purpose and fulfillment.<\/p>\n
“It makes me feel like I’m following my purpose, feels like what I’m meant to be doing, for sure,” he said.<\/p>\n
The Best Among Us is a new series to highlight the extraordinary people, interesting places and unique experiences in our area. If you know someone who is “the best among us,” let us know below:<\/p>\n
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