The boys sit out this bonus episode as Vanessa is joined by artist, musician, and author Nancy Illman. Returning for her second appearance (previously appearing in Episode 45, Voices from the Vegan Cruise: Holly & Nancy), Nancy joins Vanessa for a conversation about their lives and the shared experience of being vegan in a non-vegan world.

The highlight of this episode is the personal tour of Nancy's vibrant, creative home, which is an art piece in its own right. We strongly recommend watching the video version, as her home has to be seen to be believed. Nancy also shares how she weaves veganism into her artwork. Afterward, the two friends dive into the reality of family dynamics as a vegan, the addictive nature of cheese, and why Medjool dates are the ultimate transition food for cutting out processed sugars and baked goods. To close, Vanessa shares her dream of spending more time in Brazil and the steps she and Jon are taking to make that happen.

To book a tour of Nancy's local public-facing murals in Takoma Park, Maryland, visit https://nancyillman.com/ or email [email protected].

The Tofu Trio is proud to announce that Vegans Talking Shit has been nominated for Best Vegan Podcast in the VegNews Veggie Awards! Head over to https://vegnews.com/veggie-awards-2026/survey right now to cast your vote and help them bring home the trophy. Every vote counts! Voting ends March 10.

Vegans Talking Shit is hosted by Joey Di Girolamo, Jon Missirlian, and Vanessa Silva. Main podcast image artwork by Diego Orellana. Theme song "Flying" by TrackTribe. Visit @veganstalkingshit on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube and @vegans.talking.sh on TikTok. Send questions, comments, and topic ideas to [email protected], and you may get your email read during the show.