The Vegan Connection

Rebecca Lopez-Howes and Chris Kim are the owners of Monk’s Meats Vegan Smokehouse. Chris shares how he pivoted from being an attorney, to creating the first vegan barbecue business in New York City with Rebecca. We discuss how eating vegan is not only a dietary preference, but also an ethical and political stance. Rebecca and Chris talk about the evolution of their business and where you can find their incredible vegan food today. This is a very inspiring episode for anyone who has worked hard to achieve a goal, but their true calling is actually something much more innovative and creative. Chris emphasizes the importance of listening to your intuition, and to do what you love. 

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Adam Sobel is the chef and owner of The Cinnamon Snail, and the author of "Street Vegan". Adam Shares how he created the first vegan food truck in the United States, and how he perseveres through the challenges of operating a food business. 

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April Tam Smith is an impassioned philanthropist, a co-owner of the non-profit vegan restaurant P.S. Kitchen, and an investment banker. We discuss the importance of leading with empathy, compassion, and gratitude. April shares insight into what charities benefit from P.S. Kitchen’s profits and efforts; and the impact the restaurant is making on marginalized individuals. The third episode highlights April’s mission, which is to affirm significance.

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Guy Vaknin is the founder and co-owner of Beyond Sushi. We discuss how Beyond Sushi went from a single location with twelve seats, to serving 2 million customers. Guy shares what his current status is with the Shark Tank investors, and how he balances being Chef and CTO of his company. He also talks about the expansion of the menu, and his inspirations for new dishes. This second episode gives insight into what it’s like to be the chef and co-owner of a rapidly growing restaurant and catering business.

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Erica and Sara Kubersky are the founders & owners of MooShoes and Orchard Grocer; and partners of Modern Love Brooklyn. We discuss everything from what it was like opening the first vegan shoe and apparel store, to creating and running Orchard Grocer. Erica and Sara also share how they met best selling author and chef, Isa Chandra Moskowitz; and how they opened Modern Love Brooklyn together. We converse about our personal experiences, becoming vegetarian as children, and our excitement for the progression of veganism. This first episode provides insight into three of New York’s beloved vegan destinations.

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