Embracing Veganism Through Family Influence

• Paige’s journey began when her teenage daughter decided to go vegan, which led Paige to research and ultimately transition herself.
• Supporting a child’s ethical choice can sometimes be challenging, but it presents an opportunity for growth and understanding.

Navigating Family Dynamics as a Vegan Parent

• Paige’s son has not adopted a vegan lifestyle, which has created challenges, but she has learned to lead by example rather than pressure him.
• She shares how patience and love have helped her maintain strong family relationships while still advocating for plant-based choices.

The Role of Activism in Everyday Life

• As a host of Plant Based in the Burbs and an advocate with Unchained TV, Paige uses her platform to educate and inspire others about plant-based living.
• She discusses the importance of meeting people where they are and sharing information in a way that fosters curiosity rather than resistance.

Mental Wellness and the Impact of Food Choices

• Paige opens up about her personal experiences with mental health and how a plant-based diet helped her achieve a greater sense of emotional balance.
• She believes that removing processed animal products and harmful additives from her diet has positively influenced her mood and energy levels.

Overcoming Social Challenges as a Vegan

• Paige shares how social events, family gatherings, and friendships have evolved since her transition to veganism.
• She emphasizes the importance of community support and surrounding yourself with people who respect your values.

• Plant Based in the Burbs – A show co-hosted by Paige, dedicated to sharing tips on plant-based living.
• Unchained TV – A vegan media platform where Paige advocates for plant-based eating.
• Cowspiracy – A documentary that played a pivotal role in Paige’s decision to go vegan.

C5’s Journey to Veganism & Early Misconceptions

• C5 didn’t grow up knowing about veganism—his early focus was avoiding weight gain rather than overall health.
• Seeing health struggles in his family made him hyper-aware of how diet impacts long-term well-being.
• In college, a friend and fitness inspiration introduced him to plant-based eating, which sparked his transition.
• A defining moment came when he noticed the impact of dairy on his voice, leading him to cut out cheese and later embrace veganism fully.

The Challenges & Misconceptions of Veganism

• C5 discusses how mental conditioning around food made it difficult to let go of animal products, particularly fish.
• Naomi and C5 explore why fish is often harder for people to give up, as they don’t have the same emotional connection to them as cows or pigs.
• They break down the false belief that veganism has to be "all or nothing," encouraging gradual change over perfection.

The Impact of Fatherhood on C5

• Becoming a father shifted C5’s priorities, making him focus on setting an example through his actions, words, and lifestyle choices.
• His album "Enjoy the Journey", featuring "Letter to My Son", was written as a blueprint of wisdom and encouragement for his child.
• He now approaches everything he creates—from music to interviews—with the awareness that his son will one day hear and learn from it.

Raising a Plant-Based Child & Breaking Generational Cycles

• C5’s son is being raised vegetarian, largely influenced by his mother’s dietary choices.
• He reflects on the importance of allowing children to develop their own identities, rather than forcing them into specific labels.
• Naomi and C5 discuss the misinformation around soy, debunking the myth that it negatively impacts hormone levels and explaining why non-GMO soy is actually beneficial.

The Bigger Picture: Health, Society, and the Future

• C5 and Naomi discuss how money and industry influence keep people unaware of the negative health impacts of dairy and meat.
• They emphasize that food is deeply spiritual, affecting mental clarity, emotional well-being, and physical health.
• C5 shares his perspective that the world pushes unhealthy habits because the industries behind processed food, pharmaceuticals, and animal agriculture profit from keeping people sick.
• He encourages people to view food like fuel for a car—what you put into your body directly impacts your performance and longevity.

Final Thoughts: "The Other Side" & Finding Purpose

• C5’s brand and mantra, The Other Side, represents growth, transformation, and overcoming limitations.
• He believes everyone has something they’re trying to get to the other side of, whether it’s personal growth, health, or breaking societal conditioning.
• Naomi and C5 close the conversation with a powerful message: It’s not about perfection—it’s about continuous progress and finding what makes you feel your best.

• C5’s Music: Enjoy the Journey album, featuring Letter to My Son

The Reality of Vegan Parenting

• Shaun reflects on the joys and difficulties of raising vegan children, emphasizing that while it requires effort, it’s deeply rewarding.
• He discusses how children naturally embrace kindness and curiosity, making veganism a natural fit when framed positively.

Understanding Social Conditioning & Food Choices

• Shaun and Naomi explore how society normalizes the consumption of animal products and how this conditioning affects parents’ choices.
• They break down the persistent myths about plant-based nutrition, particularly concerning children’s growth and development.
• He shares how his own exposure to documentary footage of animal agriculture made him question the disconnect between loving animals and consuming them.

The Future of Food & Breaking Away from Old Habits

• Shaun challenges the idea that all plant-based foods must mimic meat and dairy, arguing that we haven’t yet unlocked the full potential of plant-based eating.
• He points out that 80% of the world’s population eats only 12 plants and 5 animals, limiting our understanding of what food can be.
• Naomi and Shaun discuss how plant-based innovation is still in the “valley of death,” meaning we are at an early stage of widespread adoption.

Navigating Social Pressures & Family Dynamics

• Many parents worry about their children feeling left out at social gatherings. Shaun shares how he prepared his daughters for questions and peer interactions.
• Strategies for dealing with family members or friends who may not support vegan parenting.
• He recalls his own upbringing in a Mormon household and compares it to the way people raise children within specific belief systems, reinforcing that instilling compassion through veganism is no different.

Raising Confident, Compassionate Kids

• Naomi and Shaun discuss how parents can empower their children to make informed choices without feeling alienated.
• How leading by example and fostering a positive mindset can help children advocate for themselves and their values.

Final Advice for Vegan Parents

• Shaun encourages parents to stay strong in their beliefs, reminding them that raising a vegan child is no different than instilling any other deeply held values.
• Naomi highlights the importance of community and finding support through like-minded parents.

• Earthlings – Documentary directed by Shaun Monson
• Unity – Another powerful film by Shaun Monson exploring interconnectedness

Sadrah shares her unique journey from growing up in a vegetarian household to briefly reintroducing animal products, only to later reconnect with veganism through a deeper understanding of its ethical, environmental, and social justice implications.

Naomi and Sadrah discuss the challenges and rewards of raising vegan children, the importance of creating an inclusive movement rather than striving for perfection, and how to equip children with the knowledge to make compassionate food choices. They explore the social dynamics of vegan parenting, the role of food in activism, and how veganism intersects with other social justice movements, including racial and environmental justice.

This episode is an inspiring reminder that no journey is perfect—what matters is staying curious, learning, and allowing room for growth while recognizing how our food choices impact people, animals, and the planet.

Embracing Imperfection in Parenting & Veganism

• Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up authentically and adapting to new information.
• Sadrah emphasizes that growth, not perfection, is key to making meaningful change.

Sadrah’s Path from Vegetarian Childhood to Vegan Advocate

• Raised in a vegetarian household, food ethics were ingrained in her early life.
• As a teen, she was drawn to social justice movements that expanded her awareness of veganism.
• Founding a plant-based meat company helped her fully align her lifestyle with her values.

Raising Vegan Children with Compassion and Choice

• Sadrah’s kids have been raised vegan but are given the autonomy to make their own choices.
• Instead of enforcing strict rules, she prioritizes education and open discussions.
• Helping kids understand the "why" behind their food choices fosters lifelong habits.

Navigating Social Situations as a Vegan Family

• Social pressure can be a challenge for vegan kids, especially at birthday parties and school events.
• Strategies like offering plant-based alternatives and teaching kids how to respond to questions help build confidence.
• Instead of making them feel excluded, she ensures they are included in celebrations while honoring their values.

Food as a Form of Activism

• Every meal is an opportunity to make a compassionate choice—food is a powerful tool for activism.
• Parents can introduce veganism in a way that feels natural and exciting, rather than restrictive.
• The more families integrate plant-based meals, the easier and more accessible it becomes.

[00:00] Embracing Imperfection: The Reality of Parenting & Veganism
[00:47] Meet Naomi Hallam: The Mission Behind Raising Gen V
[01:35] Introducing Today’s Guest: Sadrah Shadel, Marketing Director at Generation Vegan.
[03:06] From Childhood to Advocacy: Sadrah’s Vegan Journey
[03:58] Growing Up Vegetarian: Early Influences & Family Values
[08:07] The Shift to Veganism: Challenges & Eye-Opening Moments
[16:04] Navigating College as a Vegan: Limited Options & Learning to Cook
[20:01] Realigning with Veganism: The Role of Advocacy & Entrepreneurship
[24:03] Raising Vegan Kids: Fostering Autonomy & Compassion
[31:02] Advice for Parents Exploring Plant-Based Family Life
[36:05] Final Thoughts: Making Vegan Parenting Inclusive & Sustainable

Video

[00:00] Introducing Today’s Guest: Sadrah Shadel, Marketing Director at Generation Vegan.

[02.27] From Childhood to Advocacy: Sadrah’s Vegan Journey

 [38:29] -Raising Vegan Kids: Fostering Autonomy & Compassion

50:15-Advice for Parents Exploring Plant-Based Family Life

Generation Vegan – Learn more about their mission and advocacy efforts.

 

As a father of six, he shares his unique parenting philosophy, his experience raising both vegan and non-vegan children, and how he approaches food as a tool for education, empowerment, and change. His story is a powerful reminder that great food, shared with love, has the potential to bring people together and challenge long-standing misconceptions about veganism.

Parenting with Flexibility & Leadership

• Raising six children across different life stages, from toddlers to adults
• Why he chose to raise two of his kids vegan while letting the others decide for themselves
• How leading by example, not force, has helped his kids respect and understand veganism

A Lifelong Vegan Perspective

• Growing up vegan in a Black community in Philadelphia before "vegan" was mainstream
• The historical and cultural roots of plant-based eating and why it’s not just a modern trend
• Breaking stereotypes—veganism isn’t just for one type of person, culture, or background

Cooking in the Military & Feeding Communities

• How Supreme Dow cooked plant-based meals for soldiers during deployment
• Transitioning from military service to feeding unhoused individuals in Los Angeles
• Why food justice is crucial and how he’s making nutritious vegan meals more accessible

How to Inspire Others Without Preaching

• The importance of leading with understanding, not judgment
• How to introduce kids (and adults) to vegan food in a way they’ll enjoy
• Why good food is the best form of activism—if it tastes good, people will eat it

Chef Supreme’s Must-Try Vegan Dishes

• Buffalo Fried “Chicken”
• Vegan Lobster Roll
• Mac & Cheese (the kids’ favorite)
• The secret to making plant-based meals taste just as good (or better) than the original

• Chef Supreme Dow’s Website & Work: [Chef Supreme’s Work & Initiatives: The Harvest Academy Club

01:08 – Meet Chef Supreme: His background, family, and journey into veganism
02:31 – Parenting Journey: Raising six kids with different dietary choices
05:11 – Vegan Lifestyle and Philosophy: Growing up vegan and breaking stereotypes
10:59 – Cooking and Military Experience: Feeding soldiers and transitioning into community work
14:13 – Challenges and Advice: Handling social resistance to veganism and making plant-based food accessible
29:28 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts: "If you want people to go vegan, make the food taste good"

Join the Conversation

Have questions about vegan parenting? Drop us a comment.
Suggestions for future guests? Send us a DM on Instagram.
Like, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps us grow.

What happens when a breast cancer surgeon, author, and mother of triplet boys stumbles into the world of plant-based nutrition? A total life transformation! In this episode, host Naomi Hallam sits down with the brilliant Dr. Kristi Funk, a renowned breast cancer surgeon, best-selling author of Breasts: The Owner’s Manual, and advocate for plant-based living.

Dr. Funk shares her unexpected journey from traditional medicine to vegan advocacy, diving into the powerful science behind plant-based nutrition and cancer prevention. Plus, she gives us an inside look at how she transitioned her entire family—including her three young boys—to a vegan lifestyle overnight.

From common myths about soy and protein to the undeniable benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet, this conversation is packed with insights that will leave you inspired to take charge of your health.

The Life-Changing Moment That Led to Veganism

• Dr. Funk recounts how researching nutrition for her book completely changed her perspective on diet and disease prevention.
• The alarming findings on processed meats and their classification as a Group 1 carcinogen led her to immediately transition her entire family to a plant-based lifestyle.

Raising Vegan Kids: The Challenges & Rewards

• Cleaning out the fridge and replacing all animal products in one day.
• Educating her children through documentaries like Cowspiracy and What the Health.
• How her triplets adapted quickly and even held her accountable to their new lifestyle.

The Truth About Soy & Cancer Prevention

• Debunking the myth that soy causes cancer—in fact, it has powerful anti-cancer properties.
• The science behind phytoestrogens and how they actually protect against hormone-driven cancers.

What Everyone Needs to Know About Processed Meat

• The World Health Organization’s classification of processed meat as a definitive carcinogen, alongside asbestos and cigarettes.
• Why even organic, nitrate-free turkey slices are just as harmful as bacon or hot dogs.

Empowering People with Nutrition Science

• How most doctors receive little to no training in nutrition during medical school.
• The importance of shifting the medical approach from treatment to prevention through dietary choices.

Dr. Kristi Funk’s Website – Pink Lotus Power Up

Dr. Funk’s Book: Breasts: The Owner’s Manual – Read More

Recommended Documentaries: Cowspiracy, What the Health, Forks Over Knives

00:00 – The Big Vegan Announcement
00:37 – Introduction to Raising Gen V
01:24 – Meet Dr. Kristi Funk
02:56 – Dr. Funk’s Journey to Medicine
09:01 – Discovering the Power of Plant-Based Nutrition
20:57 – The Shocking Truth About Processed Meats
26:57 – The Big Announcement: Going Vegan
28:00 – Cleaning Out the Fridge
29:59 – Family Movie Nights: Vegan Education
30:55 – Husband’s Reaction and Family Commitment
32:19 – Navigating Vegan Life: Challenges and Triumphs
42:47 – The Soy Revelation
50:10 – Pregnancy Surprise: Triplets!
52:10 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this inspiring episode, Naomi Hallum chats with siblings Todd and Jody Boyman, founders of Hungry Planet, a brand revolutionizing the plant-based meat industry. Todd and Jody share their journey from launching a passion-driven business to creating nutritious, eco-friendly, and delicious plant-based alternatives that empower people to make compassionate food choices.

They discuss the hurdles of entering the plant-based market, the rise and fall of industry trends, and the importance of raising children with values rooted in health, sustainability, and compassion.

Naomi, Todd, and Jody explore the cultural shift toward plant-based eating, the impact of the Standard American Diet (SAD), and how food choices shape the planet and our future generations.

The Boymans leave listeners with a powerful reminder: the choices we make with food are a form of activism, shaping the world for the better.

From Passion to Purpose:

• Todd highlights the challenges of the food industry, emphasizing the need for a strong, mission-driven team.
• Jody, an activist at heart, explains how their passion for providing a gateway to healthy,
• sustainable eating fuels Hungry Planet’s mission.

Challenges in the Plant-Based Industry:

• Early plant-based products often lacked nutrition or taste, but Hungry Planet set out to change that by creating alternatives with no saturated fats that are both healthy and flavorful.
• Todd notes how some rushed products hurt the plant-based category, but Hungry Planet’s long-term vision ensured a high-quality offering.

The Meaning Behind “Hungry Planet”:

• The name reflects the mission to feed the world with sustainable, nutritious food, addressing hunger while minimizing harm to animals and the environment.Cultural Shifts and Plant-Based Diets:
• Jody shares how most traditional cultures emphasize plant-forward meals and how the Standard American Diet (SAD) has shifted toward meat-heavy eating.
• Todd and Jody discuss the importance of questioning the origins of food and fostering a connection between what’s on our plates and where it comes from.

Raising Vegan Children:

• Jody raised her children vegan, ensuring they never felt ostracized by allowing them to enjoy plant-based "junk food" for inclusion.
• Todd shares how his children, raised on health and sustainability values, naturally embraced veganism.

Empowering Kids Through Food Choices:

• Naomi discusses how raising kids to think critically about food and its impact on the planet fosters confidence and compassion.
• Jody highlights the role of language in shaping perceptions, pointing out how terms like "burger" and "pork" disconnect consumers from the animals behind the food.

Food as Activism:

• Jody sees food as a powerful tool for activism, reflecting her passion for animals and the environment.

• Hungry Planet Foods

[01:25] Introduction to Todd and Jody Boyman: Revolutionizing Plant-Based Eating
[02:29] The Inspiration Behind Hungry Planet: Passion Meets Purpose
[06:30] Overcoming Challenges: Starting a Plant-Based Meat Company
[08:23] Redefining Plant-Based Food: Healthy, Nutritious, and Delicious
[10:02] The Mission of Hungry Planet: Sustainability and Compassion
[11:46] The Standard American Diet (SAD) and Its Impact on Health
[12:43] “Who Did This Used to Be?”: Questioning the Origin of Food
[13:55] Providing Foods That Don’t Ostracize Children
[15:49] Normalizing Healthy Eating for Future Generations
[18:00] Todd’s Vegan Journey: A Personal Transformation
[21:42] Exploring New Foods: Expanding Palates Through Veganism
[24:13] Raising Vegan Children: Compassion and Inclusion
[31:06] Were the Boyman Kids Happy Growing Up Vegan?
[33:40] Cognitive Dissonance: Aligning Food Choices with Values
[36:01] How Jody’s Kids Feel About Her Passion for Veganism
[39:14] How Todd’s Kids Describe Him and His Thoughts on Jody

In this powerful episode, Naomi Hallum sits down with Dominick Thompson, a vegan advocate, author of Eat What Elephants Eat, and founder of a vegan nutrition program by the same name. Dom shares his transformative journey from prison to becoming a compassionate vegan athlete, entrepreneur, and "fur parent."

They discuss everything from the emotional connection between humans and animals to breaking stereotypes around masculinity and veganism. Dom’s message is rooted in compassion—for animals, the environment, and marginalized communities impacted by factory farming.

Naomi and Dom leave listeners with an empowering message: It’s never too late to align your actions with your values. Whether it’s embracing compassion for animals, protecting the environment, or improving your health, every choice matters.

Dom’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and hope.

The Power of Compassion:

• Dom shares how his dog, Scruff McFly, helped him rediscover his heart after prison. Their bond taught him vulnerability and patience.
• Losing Scruff was heartbreaking, but the experience allowed Dom to open his heart again and practice compassion in all areas of life.

From Prison to Veganism:

• Dom recalls a defining moment in prison when he connected meat to the animals he loved as a child. This realization inspired his mantra: “If it requires harm, I don’t want anything to do with it.”

Protein Myths and Vegan Fitness:

• Dom debunks the myth of protein deficiency in plant-based diets, sharing how his strength and health improved after transitioning to veganism. In prison, he even excelled in weightlifting competitions.
• Naomi and Dom discuss how the food industry hides the reality of meat production to make it more palatable, disconnecting consumers from the truth.

“Eat What Elephants Eat”:

• Dom started a viral campaign with his slogan “Eat What Elephants Eat” to highlight that some of the strongest animals are herbivores. This grew into a successful nutrition program and book designed to make veganism accessible and affordable.

Redefining Masculinity:

• As one of the first men of color to promote veganism, Dom advocates for redefining masculinity to include compassion and empathy. He emphasizes that being vegan doesn’t make you less masculine—it can make you stronger and more protective of others.

Environmental Racism and Consumer Choices:

• Dom highlights how factory farming harms marginalized communities, from polluting neighborhoods to exploiting undocumented workers in dangerous conditions. He urges consumers to consider the broader impact of their food choices.

It’s Never Too Late to Change:

• Dom shares his journey as an ex-felon who rebuilt his life and encourages listeners to believe in their potential, no matter their past. “Never judge a book by its cover,” he says.
• Naomi reminds listeners to have compassion for themselves during the transition to veganism, emphasizing that even small steps can make a big difference.

• Eat What Elephants Eat by Dominick Thompson: Simon & Schuster
• Eat What Elephants Eat Nutrition Program: Website

• [01:15] Introducing Dominick Thompson: From Prison to Compassionate Vegan Advocate
  [02:35] Rediscovering Compassion Through Fur Babies
  [03:17] The Life-Changing Bond with Scruff McFly
  [05:53] Compassionate Beginnings: Dom’s Early Connection to Animals
  [14:13] A Defining Moment in Prison: Aligning Actions with Values
  [19:18] Transitioning to Veganism: A Journey of Resilience and Hope
  [22:02] The Disconnect Between Food and Animals: Breaking the Illusion
  [24:45] From Prison to Vegan Advocate: Building a New Life
  [24:57] Building a Vegan Empire: Crazies and Weirdos
  [28:18] Eat What Elephants Eat: Making Veganism Accessible
  [30:06] Redefining Masculinity Through Compassion and Veganism
  [33:26] The Intersection of Veganism and Social Justice
  [37:05] A Cookbook with a Cause: Vegan Recipes for Change
  [41:42] A Story of Redemption and Hope: Dom’s Inspirational Journey
  [43:12] Closing Thoughts: Empowering Listeners to Align with Their Values

In this insightful episode, Naomi Hallum speaks with Dr. Angie Sadeghi, a gastroenterologist and mother to a teenage son, about raising plant-based children, gut health, and the challenges of parenting. Dr. Sadeghi shares her journey from being a sick child to becoming a physician focused on prevention and nutrition. The conversation explores empowering children to make their own dietary choices, the role of fiber in gut health, and tackling misinformation about plant-based diets.

Dr. Sadeghi emphasizes the importance of educating children about nutrition and ethics, setting them up for a lifetime of good health and compassion.

Empowering Teenagers:

• Dr. Sadeghi discusses letting teenagers make their own choices while providing guidance and support. “It’s important to let them experience trial and error,” she says, as parents aren’t always right.
• Naomi shares how her mother apologized for making her eat meat, realizing later that her beliefs were based on misinformation.

The Role of Curiosity in Dietary Choices:

• Dr. Sadeghi recounts how her son, at age 3, questioned where chicken nuggets came from and developed an aversion to eating animals. This curiosity led him to stop eating meat entirely.

Nutrition and Gut Health:

• Foods to Avoid: Saturated fats from animal products can harm gut health by causing inflammation and conditions like leaky gut.
• Foods to Embrace: Fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are essential for gut health, supporting beneficial bacteria and reducing inflammation.
• Vegan diets need to focus on whole, plant-based foods rather than processed alternatives.

Challenges in Medicine and Nutrition Education:

• Dr. Sadeghi points out that medical school focuses more on treating diseases than preventing them. Nutrition is barely covered, leaving doctors without adequate tools to educate patients.
• As a physician, she feels a responsibility to share accurate information about the harms of meat and dairy and the benefits of a plant-based diet.

Parenting with Different Beliefs:

• Dr. Sadeghi opens up about raising a vegan child while co-parenting with someone who does not share her dietary beliefs. She emphasizes teaching children science and values while allowing them to find their own path.

Veganism and Ethics:

• A whole-food, plant-based diet is one of the best gifts parents can give their children. It fosters better health, prevents disease, and aligns with compassionate living.

• Dr. Angie Sadeghi: Institute of Plant-Based Medicine

• [01:15] Meet Dr. Angie Sadeghi: From Sick Child to Nutrition-Focused Physician
  [02:35] Challenges of Raising Teenagers and Empowering Their Choices
  [04:43] Parental Influence on Dietary Choices and Encouraging Curiosity
  [09:24] Becoming a Doctor and Focusing on the Root Causes of Illness
  [14:46] Discovering the Transformative Power of Plant-Based Nutrition
  [18:10] The Evolution of Medical Knowledge and the Gaps in Nutrition Education
  [20:22] The Power of the Gut Microbiome: Foods That Harm and Heal
  [22:04] The Dairy Dilemma: Addressing Myths and Misconceptions
  [22:29] The Role of Physicians in Educating About Gut Health
  [22:58] Diet and Gut-Related Diseases: Preventing Illness Through Nutrition
  [23:49] Prevention Over Medication: A New Healthcare Paradigm
  [25:56] Gut Health from Birth: Building a Foundation for Lifelong Wellness
  [27:36] Raising Vegan Children: Fostering Health and Compassion
  [32:26] Challenges of Co-Parenting with Different Dietary Beliefs
  [34:16] The Social Aspect of Veganism: Helping Kids Feel Included
  [39:09] Parenting Struggles and Successes: Lessons from Dr. Sadeghi
  [41:11] Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Raising Plant-Based Families

Welcome to the debut episode of Raising GenV! Host Naomi Hallum chats with Dr. Reshma Shah, pediatrician and author, about raising plant-based families. They explore Dr. Shah’s journey, empowering children in their food choices, tackling fussy eating, and ensuring proper nutrition with plant-based formulas, milk alternatives, and key nutrients. Dr. Shah highlights compassion, conversation, and community as essential tools for a successful transition to plant-based living.

Key Takeaways:

• Dr. Shah’s Plant-Based Journey:
  Dr. Shah shares her story of growing up vegetarian, briefly eating meat, and transitioning to veganism. Her family’s Jainism-inspired values of non-violence influenced her upbringing and shaped her approach to nutrition. She gradually transitioned her own children to a vegetarian diet, respecting their autonomy and allowing them to make their own choices.
• Empowering Children:
  Naomi and Dr. Shah discuss the importance of giving children autonomy over their food choices. By providing nutritional and ethical information, parents can encourage thoughtful decision-making without forcing their beliefs. “I like to reframe it as an invitation instead of saying, ‘You must do this,’” says Dr. Shah.
• Nutrition and Safety for Plant-Based Kids:
  • Infants: Dr. Shah explains that FDA-approved plant-based formulas can be a safe and healthy option for babies. She cautions against homemade formulas and stresses that parents should consult their pediatricians.
  • Toddlers and Older Kids: Soy milk and pea protein milk are preferred options due to their protein and calorie content. Breastfed infants should receive vitamin D supplements, and B12 supplements are recommended for all plant-based children.
  • Protein and Fiber: Vegan and vegetarian kids generally get enough protein but should include intentional protein sources like tofu, tempeh, peanut butter, and beans. Fiber intake is also typically higher in plant-based diets.
  • Addressing Picky Eating and Food Preferences:
    • Neophobia, or fear of new foods, is a normal part of childhood development. Dr. Shah advises reducing pressure around meals and modeling healthy eating behaviors.
    • Care but don’t cater: Dr. Shah’s approach involves letting her kids express meal preferences but sticking to one family meal. Involving kids in meal planning and preparation can also foster enthusiasm for healthy eating.
  • Transitioning Your Family:
    Dr. Shah emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community and taking small, manageable steps. “Have fun along the way! It’s supposed to be a diet of abundance,” she says. Her book serves as a practical guide for families making the shift.
  • Veganism and Compassion:
    When discussing the ethics of plant-based eating with children, Dr. Shah advises letting their curiosity guide the conversation. “Veganism is rooted in compassion, so we want to have compassion in our conversations.”

Resources Mentioned:

• Dr. Reshma Shah’s Book: “Nourish: The Definitive Plant-Based Nutrition Guide for Families”
• Study on Children and Food Exposure: Repeated Exposure and Food Acceptance in Young Children - USDA NESR Systematic Review

Time-Stamps & Key Topics

[00:00] Introduction to Vegan Parenting
[00:30] Dr. Shah’s journey to a plant-based diet
[05:27] Transitioning her children to vegetarianism and veganism
[08:29] Respecting children’s dietary autonomy in plant-based eating
[11:01] Empowering kids with information and curiosity
[14:57] Is a 100% plant-based diet safe for kids under 2 years old?
[19:38] Nutritional considerations for plant-based diets
[21:50] Is plant-based formula safe?
[26:13] Best plant-based milk for kids
[31:36] Tips for picky eaters and encouraging new foods
[37:29] Exploring kids’ natural curiosity about veganism
[39:56] How honest should parents be about where meat and dairy come from?
[42:33] First steps for transitioning your family to a plant-based diet
[45:23] The philosophy behind a plant-based lifestyle