Rip welcomes Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, “The Joyful Vegan,” to the PLANTSTRONG Podcast for a long overdue celebration of the massive growth and interest in all things plant-based - especially in the 15-20 years.

An empath and advocate her whole life, Patrick-Goudreau, first began her life’s purpose and awakening at age 19 after reading John Robbins’ Diet for a New America and then later, Slaughterhouse: The Shocking Story of Greed, Neglect, and Inhumane Treatment Inside the U.S. Meat Industry by investigative journalist Gail Eisnitz. 

This awakening led to her life’s work, which now includes multiple books, podcasts, radio/TV appearances, cooking classes, and group vegan trips around the world.

She and Rip discuss:

• Her Awareness, Sensitivity, and Compassion toward animal suffering as a young girl
• Finding a Balance in Activism and Emotional Well-being
• Being a Joyful Vegan: Finding Wonder and Gratitude in Veganism
• Struggles and Difficulties of Coming Out as Vegan to Family
• Developing Empathic Communication Skills
• Managing Emotions and Compassion in Difficult Interactions
• The Power of Openness, Vulnerability, and Compassion in Conversations
• Finding a Balance between Belonging vs. Staying True to Values
• Overcoming Challenges in Relationships with Different Diets
• Effective Advocacy and Communication in Relationships
• “Eating the Rainbow” and Exploring Different Phytochemicals and Their Colors
• Exploring Culinary Delights in France and Italy with her Joyful Vegan Trips
• Her Passion for History and What it Can Teach Us About the Present

If you’re a fan of Colleen’s, then, of course, you’ll love this episode. If you’re not familiar with Colleen and her work, prepare to be impacted by her deep, deep compassion and empathy for all of life, and especially how to help others in their own transitions. 

Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, affectionately known as the joyful vegan, is a recognized expert and thought leader on the culinary, social, ethical, and practical aspects of living compassionately and healthfully. A long-time animal advocate and vegan, Patrick-Goudreau is a bestselling author of seven books, an acclaimed speaker, producer of one of the longest-running podcasts, a regular contributor to National Public Radio, and the host of luxury vegan trips around the world. She can be found at JoyfulVegan.com.

Learn More About our 2026 Live PLANTSTRONG Events: https://plantstrong.com/pages/events

Let Us Help Your PLANTSTRONG Journey

Take the Free 7-Day Challenge: https://liveplantstrong.com/free-7-day-challenge/

Learn More About Our Corporate Wellness Program: https://liveplantstrong.com/corporate-wellness/

COMPLEMENT: Use code PLANTSTRONG for 30% off at https://lovecomplement.com/pages/plantstrong-special-offer

Follow PLANTSTRONG and Rip Esselstyn

https://plantstrongfoods.com/

https://www.facebook.com/GoPlantstrong

https://www.instagram.com/goplantstrong/

https://www.instagram.com/ripesselstyn/

Follow the PLANTSTRONG Podcast and Give the Show a 5-star Rating

Apple Podcasts

Spotify