Pollinators are in serious decline—from monarch butterflies to native bees—and the consequences are profound, and in today’s episode, we talk about how you can help—starting right where you are. Specifically, how to create a pollinator sanctuary in your own backyard. Unlike so many global challenges, this is something we can actually impact—right in our own yards, balconies, and communities.

In this episode, we talk about:

* why pollinators are essential to our food system and ecosystems

* the difference between native, non-native, and invasive plants

* why some plants support entire ecosystems—and others don’t

* how to think about your yard as habitat, not decoration

* where to start when it all feels overwhelming

* how to make changes gradually (without ripping everything out at once)

* the role of keystone or “powerhouse” plants

🎧 Listen to the full episode of Food for Thought, celebrating 20 years of practical inspiration for living compassionately, sustainably, and healthfully.

This podcast is listener-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

2027 Trips

In the episode, I also mentioned our 2027 trips, none of which are ready to offer yet; however, you can pre-register to get first dibs when the trips go live. You don’t have to pay a cent or commit to a trip (that doesn’t exist yet!), but pre-registering puts you first in line.

* Pre-Register for Provence, France

* Pre-Register for Cambodia

* Pre-Register for Japan in the Fall

Affiliate Links

If you make a purchase using the links below, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you—and you’ll receive exclusive discounts using the codes provided!

* Complement SupplementsEverything you need, nothing you don’t. Complement makes targeted supplements for plant-based eaters, including B12, D3, DHA, and more—all from clean, trusted sources.🔗 lovecomplement.com | Code: JOYFULVEGAN for 15% off all products!

* Plaine ProductsRefillable, non-toxic, plastic-free personal care products like shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body wash. Gentle on you, gentle on the planet.🔗 plaineproducts.com | Code: JOYFULVEGAN for 20% off all products!

* Nama JuicerMy favorite cold-press juicer—quiet, powerful, and easy to clean. It’s become an essential part of my kitchen.🔗 namawell.com | Code: COLLEEN10 for 10% off all products!

Additional Resources

👉 Connect with me 1:1 – Get personalized guidance whatever you are looking for.

👉 Read A Year of Compassion – Daily inspiration to help you live with intention, kindness, and clarity.

👉 Travel with me! I host animal-friendly, luxury, all-inclusive vegan trips around the world, specifically curated to ensure high-quality, high-touch premium experiences. Check out our upcoming trips, and let me know if you have any questions.

👉 Check out my Recipe E-Books and my library of On-Demand Cooking Classes for recipes.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.colleenpatrickgoudreau.com/subscribe