Passionate vegan and photographer since 2009, Kelly uses her photographs to invite viewers into the amazing and meaningful lives farmed animals live. She shows a kinder world for farmed animals is possible in her strikingly beautiful images captured through her work at Edgar's Mission Farm Sanctuary in Australia.

Mathilde Do Chi is an international food law consultant passionate about modernizing our global food system to tackle climate change, improve people's health and remove animals from our plates.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Episode with Jennifer Calabria

In this episode of Plant Your Seed Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer Calabria, who shares her transformative journey from a traditional diet to adopting a fully plant-based lifestyle. Jennifer recounts her health scare that prompted her dietary shift, her challenges with quitting smoking, cheese, and alcohol simultaneously, and how she's now influencing the culinary world, including her involvement with a steakhouse that introduced vegan options.

What You'll Learn:

• Jennifer’s Vegan Transition: Hear about Jennifer's transition to a plant-based diet, what triggered it, and her initial feelings during a difficult hospitalization.
• Embracing a Vegan Lifestyle: Learn about the significant lifestyle changes Jennifer made and how she managed the transition.
• Challenges and Overcoming Them: Discover the struggles Jennifer faced when quitting smoking, cheese, and drinking all at once and how she coped.
• Advice for New Vegans: Jennifer shares valuable tips for those starting on a plant-based path.
• Health and Wellness Improvements: Insights into the positive changes Jennifer experienced in her health and well-being after going vegan.
• Evolving Perspectives: How Jennifer's views have shifted since becoming vegan.
• Educational Resources: The role of documentaries in Jennifer's vegan education.
• Impact on Personal Relationships: Effects of Jennifer's vegan lifestyle on her family and social connections.
• Addressing Misconceptions: Strategies Jennifer uses to respond to common misconceptions about veganism.
• Professional Integration: Jennifer discusses her involvement in developing a vegan menu at a steakhouse and its reception.
• Culinary Innovations: Insights into why chefs might resist vegan options and the importance of texture in vegan food.
• Staff Training: How Jennifer helped train staff to be knowledgeable about vegan menu items.
• Career Transformation: The courage behind Jennifer's decision to change her career path towards veganism.
• Current Excitements: What's currently thrilling Jennifer in her vegan culinary projects.

Timestamps:

• 0:55 - Transition to Plant-Based Diet
• 2:18 -  Hospitalization Experience
• 3:49 - The Change to Veganism
• 6:23 -  Dealing with the Vegan Transition
• 7:24 -  Quitting Smoking, Cheese, and Drinking
• 8:25 -  Advice for New Vegans
• 9:03 -  Health Improvements
• 9:42 -  Change in Perspective
• 11:16 -  Watching Documentaries
• 15:35 - Family and Social Life Impact
• 17:27 -  Responding to Misconceptions
• 18:45 - Vegan Menu at Steakhouse
• 23:53 - Chef’s Views on Vegan Items
• 27:23 - Vegan Menu Items
• 29:49 - Importance of Texture in Vegan Food
• 31:38 - Training Staff on Vegan Menu
• 33:50 - Courage for Career Change
• 34:50 - Exciting Current Projects
• 35:41 - Resources for Starting Vegan
• 36:59 - Contacting Jennifer Calabria

Resources & Links:

• Connect with Jennifer on Instagram
• Recommended vegan documentaries and resources mentioned by Jennifer
• The China Study: The Most Comprehensive Study of Nutrition Ever Conducted And the Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss, And Long-term Health

Subscribe & Review: If Jennifer's story has inspired you, please subscribe to Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review. Your engagement helps us share transformative journeys like Jennifer's with a wider audience.

Stay tuned for more episodes that empower and inspire personal growth and healthy living through plant-based eating.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Episode with Areina Plowden

Introduction:

Welcome to a flavorful episode of the Plant Your Seed Podcast featuring Areina Plowden, affectionately known as @theveganfoodie on Instagram. Joining us from the historic and vibrant city of Istanbul, Turkey, Areina shares her enriching journey as a vegan expat. Through her adventures, she has mastered the art of navigating cultural challenges, sourcing vegan ingredients, and adapting traditional recipes for a plant-based lifestyle, all while documenting her remarkable journey towards health and wellness.

What You'll Learn:

• Areina’s Journey to Veganism: Discover the motivations behind her transition to a plant-based diet and the health benefits she has experienced.

• Navigating Veganism Abroad: Insights into how Areina sources vegan ingredients and adapts traditional recipes in a non-vegan country.

• Overcoming Challenges: Areina discusses the hurdles of maintaining a vegan lifestyle in a new culture and her strategies for overcoming them.

• Cultural Integration and Veganism: Learn how Areina has embraced the local culture while adhering to her vegan values.

Timestamps:

• 0:53 - Transition to a Plant-Based Diet

• 2:40 - Changes in Health and Wellbeing

• 3:36 - Motivation for Veganism

• 5:19 - Perspective Shifts After Going Vegan

• 6:23 - Challenges of a Vegan Transition

• 7:18 - Family and Social Life Dynamics

• 8:11 - Hesitations Before Going Vegan

• 9:24 - Responding to Vegan Misconceptions

• 10:18 - Decision to Become an Expat

• 11:33 - Expat Challenges

• 15:30 - Enjoying Life Abroad

• 17:43 - Favorite Vegan-Friendly Country

• 19:48 - Courage to Live Abroad

• 21:39 - Exciting Developments in Vegan Lifestyle

• 23:11 - Tips for Vegan Expats

• 27:03 - Resources for Starting a Plant-Based Diet

• 28:11 - Favorite Plant-Based Meals

Resources & Links:

• Follow Areina Plowden on Instagram: @theveganfoodie

• Areina’s recommended vegan resources: @happycow

Subscribe & Review: Inspired by Areina’s culinary adventures and expat life? Subscribe to the Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Share how Areina’s story has inspired or influenced your vegan journey.

Stay tuned for more episodes that bring stories of transformation, wellness, and sustainability from around the globe.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Episode with Dr. Mari Mitrani

In this episode of Plant Your Seed Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Mari Mitrani, a physician-scientist and co-founder of Gattaca Genomics. With a passion for regenerative medicine and a vegan lifestyle, Dr. Mitrani shares her journey and insights into the world of preventive health and the power of plant-based living.

What You'll Learn:

• Dr. Mitrani's transition to a vegan lifestyle and the motivations behind her choice.

• The supportive role her family played in her vegan journey.

• Advice for those curious about starting a plant-based diet.

• The challenges Dr. Mitrani faced early in her vegan journey and how she overcame them.

• How she addresses curiosity about her plant-based diet and educates others.

• The importance of the motto "Dare to Fail" in Dr. Mitrani's personal and professional life.

• Leading by example to help others understand cognitive dissonance regarding diet and lifestyle.

• Dr. Mitrani's involvement in projects like Slay, They Are Trying To Kill Us, and Christspiracy.

• The particular resonance of veganism with women and Dr. Mitrani's perspective on this connection.

• The impact of being a vegan scientist-physician on Dr. Mitrani's life and career.

• Dr. Mitrani's passion for regenerative medicine and its future.

• Observations on the trend of doctors adopting plant-based diets and the responses from the medical community.

• Dr. Mitrani's experiences with pushback regarding her child's vegan diet and navigating those conversations.

• Recommended resources for those interested in exploring a plant-based diet.

• Insights into maintaining physical fitness and understanding one's body on a vegan diet.

• Strategies for staying committed to a plant-based diet amidst a busy schedule.

• Exciting developments in Dr. Mitrani's practice and what she looks forward to.

Timestamps:

• 1:07 - Vegan Diet Transition

• 3:42 - Family Support for Veganism

• 4:49 - Beginning a Plant-Based Lifestyle

• 5:49 - Initial Struggles with Veganism

• 7:02 - Educating Others About Vegan Diet

• 8:00 - "Dare to Fail" Philosophy

• 9:03 - Leading by Example

• 10:34 - Involvement in Vegan Projects

• 14:32 - Veganism's Appeal to Women

• 15:23 - Veganism in Science and Medicine

• 16:24 - Love for Regenerative Medicine

• 17:43 - Doctors Going Plant-Based

• 20:05 - Navigating Pushback

• 21:09 - Resources for Starting Vegan

• 22:52 - Veganism and Physical Fitness

• 24:13 - Staying Vegan While Busy

• 25:34 - Excitement in Practice

• 28:03 - Contacting Dr. Mitrani

Resources & Links:

• Follow Dr. Mitrani on Social Media: @marimitrani

• Dr. Mitrani's Recommended Resources: Slay and They're Trying To Kill Us

Dr. Mari Mitrani's story is a fascinating blend of scientific rigor and compassionate living, demonstrating that health and wellness thrive on a foundation of plant-based nutrition and preventive care.

Subscribe & Review:

Loved this episode? Subscribe to Plant Your Seed Podcast and leave a review. Let’s spread the message of health, wellness, and compassion together.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and actionable advice from leaders in health, wellness, and sustainability.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Episode with Anne Molina

Join us on this episode of the Plant Your Seed Podcast as we sit down with the compassionate Anne Molina, founder of Hogs & Kisses Farm Sanctuary. With nearly 13 years of living a vegan lifestyle, Anne has dedicated her life to rescuing farm animals and promoting a message of love and respect for all beings.

What You'll Learn:

• The origins and inspirations behind Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary.

• Unexpected aspects and challenges of running an animal sanctuary.

• Strategies and motivations for continuous operation in sanctuary management.

• Practical advice for individuals aspiring to start their own sanctuary.

• An introduction to the concept of micro sanctuaries and their significance.

• Future ambitions and plans for the growth of Hogs & Kisses.

• The most fulfilling aspects of life at the sanctuary.

• Anne's personal journey to veganism and its impact on her life.

• Effects of veganism on Anne’s social and family dynamics.

• The driving force behind Anne’s passion for animal welfare.

• Ways to connect with Anne and support Hogs & Kisses Farm Sanctuary.

Timestamps:

• 00:47 - Founding Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary

• 3:02 - Surprises of Sanctuary Life

• 7:14 - Sustaining Sanctuary Operations

• 10:02 - Advice for New Sanctuary Founders

• 12:53 - Explaining Micro Sanctuaries

• 16:41 - Future Visions for Hogs & Kisses

• 23:55 - Joyful Moments at the Sanctuary

• 26:41 - Anne’s Vegan Transition Story

• 35:30 - Veganism’s Impact on Personal Relationships

• 40:44 - Anne’s Advocacy for Animals

• 47:07 - Connecting with Anne Molina

Connect with Hogs and Kisses:

• Instagram: @hogskisses

• Website: hogsandkisses.org

Resources & Links:

• MicroSanctuary.org

• OpenSanctuary.org

Welcome to an insightful episode of Plant Your Seed Podcast, featuring the dynamic Jessica Karwat, a renowned Health Coach for Women, Vegan Nutritionist, TEDx Speaker, and Reiki Healer. Jessica shares her transformative journey and provides valuable insights into holistic health and vegan nutrition.

What You'll Learn:

• The inspiration behind Jessica’s transition to a plant-based diet.
• The obstacles she faced while switching to veganism and how she overcame them.
• An intimate look at Jessica’s struggle with an eating disorder and her path to recovery.
• Practical advice for those considering a plant-based lifestyle.
• The story of Jessica’s entrepreneurial journey and the bravery behind starting her business.
• Unique challenges women face in losing weight, especially on a plant-based diet.
• The relationship between food, menstrual cycles, and weight loss.
• Jessica’s passion for women’s health, veganism, and why it matters.
• How to connect with Jessica and follow her work for more insights and guidance.

Timestamps:

• 00:55 - Jessica’s Motivation for Plant-Based Diet
• 10:44 - Challenges in Transitioning to Veganism
• 19:10 - Jessica’s Personal Battle with an Eating Disorder
• 23:20 - Top Tips for Adopting a Plant-Based Diet
• 32:05 - The Courage to Start Her Business
• 36:54 - Women’s Weight Loss Challenges on a Plant-Based Diet
• 39:56 - Syncing Food with Menstrual Cycle for Weight Loss
• 49:25 - Jessica's Passion for Women's Health and Veganism
• 56:01 - Connecting with Jessica Karwat

Resources & Links:

• Follow Jessica Karwat on Social Media: iamjessicakarwat
• Jessica’s website and contact information: womensacademyoftransformation.com

Connect with Jessica:

• Instagram: iamjessicakarwat

Thank you for tuning into this powerful episode with Jessica Karwat. Her journey and dedication to improving women’s health through plant-based nutrition are truly inspirational. Whether you’re new to veganism or looking to deepen your understanding of holistic health, Jessica’s insights offer something for everyone.

Subscribe & Review:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and practical advice aimed at fostering a healthier, more compassionate world.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Iye Bako | Iye Loves Life

Welcome to another compelling episode of the Plant Your Seed Podcast. This time, we are joined by the inspiring Iye Bako, a passionate advocate for veganism, social justice, beauty and wellness. With her roots in Nigeria and her life now in the United States, Iye shares her unique journey and how it has shaped her mission today.

What You'll Learn:

• Iye's motivations for adopting a plant-based lifestyle and the impact it's had on her life.
• The challenges and rewards that came with transitioning to a vegan diet.
• The deeper meanings and personal convictions that resonate with Iye about veganism.
• How Iye's journey into activism began and its connection to her vegan lifestyle.
• The inspiration behind her influential Instagram page, Iye Loves Life.
• Strategies for making the vegan movement more inclusive, especially for people of color.
• Iye’s passionate reasons for her vegan advocacy.
• Exciting updates and ventures in Iye’s life.
• Tips and advice for maintaining a plant-based lifestyle.
• How listeners can connect with Iye and follow her journey. Timestamps:
• 00:54 - Introduction to Iye's vegan journey 4:41 - Personal changes from adopting a plant-based diet 6:40 - Overcoming struggles in transitioning to veganism 9:42 - Deep dive into Iye's connection with veganism 12:11 - Iye's entry into activism 17:01 - The story behind Iye Loves Life Instagram 19:32 - Discussing diversity in the vegan community 20:42 - Iye's fervent belief in veganism 26:02 - What's new and exciting in Iye’s life 26:53 - Iye’s top tips for sticking to a vegan diet 30:47 - How to stay connected with Iye

Resources Mentioned:Iye Loves Life Instagram: @iyeloveslife

Connect with Iye:Follow Iye on Instagram: @IyeLovesLife

Thank you for joining us for this enlightening conversation with Iye Bako. If you’re looking to blend veganism with activism or simply seeking to live a life aligned with compassion and wellness, Iye’s story is sure to inspire.

Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you.

Tune in next time for more inspiring stories and practical advice aimed at fostering a healthier, more compassionate world.

Show Notes for Plant Your Seed Podcast: Ella Magers | Sexy Fit Vegan Welcome to another inspiring episode of Plant Your Seed Podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Ella Magers, the vibrant force behind Sexy Fit Vegan®. With 29 years of vegan living, Ella brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and energy to the discussion on transforming lives through compassionate choices and fitness. Ella is also a Board Member at Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary.

What You'll Learn: Ella’s personal journey from a meat-eating background to becoming a passionate vegan advocate. The founding of Sexy Fit Vegan® and the mission behind it. Practical advice for those looking to transition to a plant-based diet without feeling overwhelmed. The intertwining relationship between fitness, nutrition, and mental health in Ella's life and coaching. How to use compassion as a guiding principle for lifestyle changes and personal development.

Timestamps: 00:59 - Introduction to Ella Magers and her vegan journey. 10:11 - What it was like to be a vegan kid. 17:37 - Challenges and rewards of transitioning to a plant-based diet. 19:34 - Combining veganism with fitness: Tips and strategies. 21:40 - The importance of self-love in the journey towards wellness. 31:52 - Sexy Fit Vegan success story 36:08 - What is next for Sexy Fit Vegan? 39:52 - Ella’s advice for newcomers to the plant-based lifestyle. 43:32 - Closing thoughts and where to find more about Ella Magers. Resources Mentioned: Sexy Fit Vegan® website

Connect with Ella: Instagram: @SexyFitVegan Facebook: Sexy Fit Vegan  YouTube: Sexy Fit Vegan Channel  Hogs and Kisses Farm Sanctuary Thank you for tuning in to this episode with Ella Magers. If you’re inspired to make a change or want to learn more about living a compassionate, fit, and healthy lifestyle, make sure to check out all the resources listed and follow Ella on social media for daily inspiration and guidance. Remember, the journey to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle starts with one small step. Let’s continue to plant seeds of positivity, health, and compassion together. Subscribe & Review: Loved this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to the Plant Your Seed Podcast on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us grow and reach more listeners like you. Tune in next week for another inspiring episode aimed at empowering you on your journey to a healthier, more compassionate lifestyle!

Ray Star is a multi-award-winning author from England with a passion for nature, animals, and the Earth. Most known for the bestselling fantasy fiction trilogy Earthlings, a coming-of-age dystopian read for lovers of climate fiction and magical realism, that has been proclaimed 'one of the best vegan books of all time' and 'the vegan Harry Potter'.

As an author of Climate Fiction, Ray's books are published on recycled paper where possible and she plants 1 tree per book sale via Ecologi. It is Ray's dream to one day open The Peridot Animal Sanctuary and Wildlife Reserve in England and that dream inspired Ray to close her business of 15 years to pursue a writing career.

When Ray isn't writing, she is happiest spending time with her children, family, and friends or walking with her dogs and spending time in nature. A firm believer of magick, Ray can often be found stargazing under the moon with a tarot deck in one hand and a strong cuppa in the other.

raystarbooks.com

Mike Stura is a Mechanic, Welder and Harley Davidson guy. He's not your typical vegan but Mike owns and runs Skylands Animal Sanctuary and Rescue in New Jersey.

Mike started Skylands Animal Sanctuary and Rescue with one tiny piece of land and a few small animals. That tiny piece of land grew to become an entire farm full of rescued souls. These animals are rescued from slaughterhouses, live markets, farms, extreme neglect, abuse, religious ceremonies, abandonment, and are even found wandering streets…

No matter where they are from or from what dire circumstances they escape, they are provided with proper veterinary care, the best foods, water, a safe place to live, eat and sleep as well as lots of love around the clock.

Every animal requires room to run and live unencumbered by the threat of harm and each one gets exactly what they need at the Skylands Animal Sanctuary and Rescue.

To help the animals and Mike at Skylands Animal Sanctuary and Rescue donate by going to skylandssanctuary.org