In this episode of Plant Based Curious, host Diane Randall sits down with Matthew Halteman, philosophy professor, Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics fellow, and author of Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan. Together, they flip the script on veganism, exploring how it’s not about restriction—but about abundance, joy, and alignment with our deepest values.  

 Key Takeaways: 

• Matthew reframes veganism as a celebration of what we’re for—creaturely flourishing, emotional coherence, and moral alignment.  
• Quote: “Vegans aren’t just avoiding harm—we’re harmonizing with the world.”     
• Why self-compassion and small steps matter more than perfection.  
• How to navigate social pressures (like Thanksgiving!) without guilt.  
• Start with curiosity, not obligation. Try a “Vegan Weeknight” to experiment joyfully.   
• Matthew’s tip: “Feed your curiosity with what feels natural—whether it’s plant-based recipes or documentaries about animal intelligence.”    
• Why judgment backfires—and how leading with empathy invites others to join the journey.  

Standout Quotes:  

 “Going vegan aggregates joy in ways I’ve never seen—better health, richer relationships, and a planet that thrives.” —Matthew Halteman  

“Progress over perfection. Even 1% shifts create 100% transformation.” —Diane Randall  

 Resources Mentioned:  

 📖 Matthew’s Book: Hungry Beautiful Animals  

🎧 Free Excerpt: “Vegan Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Gratitude & Love” 

 🌱 Diane’s Book: A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach  

 Listener Action Steps:  

• Try One Small Win: Swap one meal this week for a plant-based dish.  
• Share the Episode: Tag someone who’s curious about veganism!  
• Leave a Review: Help others discover Plant Based Curious.  

 Why You’ll Love This Episode:  

If you’ve ever felt veganism was about sacrifice, this conversation will change your mind. Matthew’s blend of philosophy, humor, and practicality makes abundance feel not just possible—but irresistible. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and the plant-based curious!

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Plant Based Curious, host Diane Randall sits down with Claudia Braun, a mindset and holistic lifestyle coach, to unpack why saying “yes” to yourself can feel so difficult—and how to transform guilt, societal pressures, and self-doubt into unshakable self-trust.  

 Claudia shares powerful insights on:  

• The hidden scripts that keep you stuck in cycles of people-pleasing and burnout.  
•  Awareness, acceptance, action—the 3-step framework to break free from self-sabotage.  
• Why self-compassion (not perfection!) is the key to lasting change.  
• How to use EFT (tapping) to rewire limiting beliefs and reclaim your inner power.  
• Practical strategies to quiet your inner critic and start living authentically aligned.  

 Whether you’re navigating a plant-based lifestyle, career challenges, or relationships, this conversation is a rallying cry to honor your needs and embrace radical self-love.  

Special Offer: Grab Claudia’s free guide 3 Strategies to Say Yes to Yourself at freebie.claudia-braun.com.  

Tune in and discover how to turn “I can’t” into “I matter”—one small, courageous step at a time.  

Check out PlantBasedCurious.com for more episodes, recipes, and inspiration!  

 Listen now and start your journey from self-doubt to self-empowerment.  

Key Takeaways for Sharing:  

• "Self-love isn’t selfish—it’s the foundation of showing up fully for others.”  
•  “Your mindset is either your greatest ally or your loudest critic. Choose wisely.”  
• "Progress over perfection: 1% shifts create 100% transformation.”  

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Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

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Episode Description

Are all sugars created equal? In this transformative episode of The Plant-Based Curious Podcast, host Diane Randall welcomes Dr. John Lewis, a trailblazer in nutritional research and clinical trials, to explore the game-changing potential of polysaccharides. These complex carbohydrates found in plants like aloe vera and rice bran hold incredible promise for boosting immune health, promoting healing, and supporting those with chronic and neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.

Dr. Lewis dives deep into the science, dispelling sugar myths and highlighting the unique role of polysaccharides in optimizing overall health. He shares groundbreaking clinical trial results and provides practical tips for incorporating these powerful nutrients into your daily routine.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• The truth about sugar: How to distinguish between harmful and beneficial types
• How polysaccharides enhance immune function and reduce inflammation
• The groundbreaking results of clinical trials on Alzheimer’s and MS
• Practical ways to incorporate polysaccharides into your diet for optimal health
• The science behind Dr. Lewis’ innovative product, Daily Brain Care

Notable Insights & Takeaways

• “The immune system acts like a symphony conductor, keeping all organ systems in harmony.” – Dr. John Lewis
• “Take personal responsibility for your health. Don’t give that power away.” – Dr. John Lewis

Dr. Lewis emphasizes that plant-based nutrition and natural compounds can empower the body to heal itself, providing a holistic alternative to conventional medical approaches.

Call to Action

Ready to take your health to the next level? Tune in now to discover how polysaccharides can transform your wellness journey. Explore more about Dr. John Lewis’ work and his revolutionary product, Daily Brain Care, at drlewisnutrition.com.

Have thoughts or questions? Share your voice through the text link in the show notes, and don’t forget to subscribe to The Plant-Based Curious Podcast for more inspiring conversations about plant-based living.

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Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

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What if one small change could completely transform your health, mindset, and overall outlook on life? In the Season 3 kickoff of The Plant-Based Curious Podcast, host Diane Randall dives into the ripple effect of plant-based living. From personal stories to practical tips, this episode is packed with insights to inspire your journey. Whether you’re curious about adding more plants to your meals or ready to embrace the lifestyle fully, you’ll leave with actionable advice and the motivation to make meaningful changes.

Discover how even the smallest steps—like Meatless Mondays or swapping dairy milk for oat milk—can create a healthier, more vibrant, and compassionate life. Plus, learn how to handle setbacks, stay inspired, and find joy in progress over perfection.

This episode is your invitation to explore the power of plants and kick off your transformative journey.

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Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

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In this special REPOST episode of the Plant-Based Curious Podcast, I’m excited to share an enlightening Interview I had with Jennifer Moore, the host of the Empowering Minds Mental Health Podcast. Jennifer and I discussed the vital connection between holistic well-being and maintaining a plant-based lifestyle, and I couldn’t wait to bring this conversation to our Plant-Based Curious audience.

 During our chat, we explored the challenges many faces when transitioning to a plant-based diet, and I shared personal anecdotes about my journey and the strategies that have helped me thrive. We touched on the importance of balancing physical, mental, and emotional health and how self-care plays a crucial role in this process.

 You'll hear practical steps for making a successful transition to a plant-based diet, emphasizing that starting small can lead to significant and lasting change. Education is key, and we both believe that understanding the fundamentals of plant-based living empowers you to make informed choices.

 As you listen, I hope you feel inspired by our discussion and find actionable insights that resonate with your own journey. Remember, every day is an opportunity to start anew, and embracing your choices can not only enhance your well-being but also inspire those around you.

 Tune in to this insightful conversation and let’s empower each other on our plant-based journeys!

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Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

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In this episode of the Plant-Based Curious Podcast,  I’m diving into a topic that many of us plant-based eaters face: navigating social situations. Whether it’s a family gathering, a dinner party, or a casual outing with friends, these scenarios can sometimes feel challenging when you’re committed to a plant-based lifestyle.

I want to share my personal experiences and the strategies that have helped me feel confident and prepared in these social settings. Let’s face it—preparation is key! I’ll talk about the importance of communicating your dietary preferences with hosts ahead of time and how that openness can lead to more enjoyable experiences for everyone involved.

Throughout our conversation, I’ll give you practical tips that you can implement right away. For instance, bringing a delicious plant-based dish can not only satisfy your cravings but also spark curiosity and conversation among your friends and family. I truly believe that confidence in your choices is essential, and I’ll remind you that your journey can inspire those around you.

You’ll hear takeaways like, “Preparation is key” and “Your story is powerful,” which can help you approach social gatherings with a positive mindset. By embracing your plant-based journey, you’re not just enhancing your own experience; you might just inspire someone else to explore this lifestyle too!

So, if you’re ready to transform how you navigate social situations and feel empowered in your choices, I invite you to tune in! Let’s embrace the joy of sharing our plant-based lifestyle with others, one gathering at a time.

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Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

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In this episode of Plant Based Curious, I'm excited to share with you some of my personal experiences and insights that have shaped my journey towards a more integrated, wholesome life. We'll explore the four pillars of holistic wellness—physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual—and how each plays a crucial role in our overall health and happiness.

 We'll start with the foundation, our plate. I'll discuss how the foods we choose can influence more than just our physical health, impacting our mood and energy levels in profound ways. From there, we’ll move into the art of mindfulness, uncovering simple yet powerful techniques to stay present and engaged in our daily routines.

 Self-care will be our next focus, emphasizing its importance not just as an occasional treat but as a vital part of our everyday lives. Then, we’ll touch on spirituality, exploring how connecting with our deeper selves can lead to greater peace and fulfillment, regardless of your beliefs or background.

 Lastly, I'll talk about the significance of community. Building and nurturing relationships that support and uplift us can dramatically enhance our journey towards holistic wellness.

 So, whether you're well on your path of plant-based living or just curious about making some meaningful changes, this episode is packed with practical tips and heartfelt advice to help you thrive in all areas of life.

 Join me as we learn, grow, and transform together. Tune in now and start weaving the principles of holistic wellness into your daily tapestry. Let's nurture our bodies, minds, souls, and planet—one step at a time.

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Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

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Welcome to a special episode of the Plant-Based Curious Podcast! Today, I'm thrilled to introduce my new book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach."

In this episode, I open up about my transformative journey into plant-based living—a path that has profoundly enriched my physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual well-being. "A Whole Life Nourished" is more than just a book; it's a collection of personal experiences and insights that I've gathered along the way.

You'll learn about the beginnings of my plant-based journey and the incredible impact it has had on all facets of my life. I dive deep into the key topics the book covers, such as plant-based nutrition, mindfulness, self-care, and sustainable living. Plus, I'll provide practical tips and actionable advice to help you make small, manageable changes that can lead to significant improvements in your overall health and happiness.

Whether you're just starting out with plant-based living or seeking to deepen your existing practice, this episode is filled with inspiration and practical guidance. Join me on this transformative journey and discover how you can nourish every aspect of your life.

Thank you for tuning in, and I can't wait for you to experience "A Whole Life Nourished." Let's embrace this journey together and create a more fulfilling and vibrant life, one step at a time!

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Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

Get Instant Access Now

In this enlightening episode of Plant-Based Curious, join me as I chat with Chris Terzakos, who shares his transformative journey toward self-love and natural healing. Chris discusses how he overcame personal traumas and embraced self-care practices, moving away from traditional medical treatments to explore natural health solutions. His experiences highlight the vital role of self-love in personal growth and well-being.

We delve into the power of self-compassion, the importance of feeling a sense of belonging to oneself, and how these elements contribute to a more fulfilled and positive life. Tune in to gain valuable insights on how adopting these principles can lead to transformative changes in your own wellness journey. For more information about Chris Terzakos, visit his Healing Warriors website.

Send us a text

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Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

Get Instant Access Now

In this enlightening episode of Plant-Based Curious, I’m joined by aging expert Eileen Kopsaftis to debunk the myth that aging must be accompanied by pain and decline. We discuss the importance of maintaining a positive mindset about aging, and emphasize how lifestyle choices involving movement, hydration, and nutrition can significantly impact our vitality and flexibility as we age.

We distinguish between typical age-related discomfort and symptoms of serious health conditions, highlighting the importance of listening to our body and seeking professional advice when necessary. This episode provides valuable takeaways on how adopting a holistic approach to wellness can help us age gracefully and maintain a high quality of life.

Join us to learn how you can challenge the ingrained perceptions of aging, incorporate effective daily habits, and embrace a healthier, more proactive approach to growing older. Visit Eileens website for more information on aging without decline.

Send us a text

Support the show

Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?

This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!

Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.

Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.

Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.

Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!

Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!

Get Instant Access Now