Vegan Boss Radio

In this episode, Shawna sits down with Tania Cantú, the creator behind Plant Based Mexican (@plantbasedmexican), a woman whose life flipped the moment she realized her body had been whispering warnings since childhood. A vibrant voice blending humour, wellness, and flavour to show the world that healthy living doesn’t have to be bland or boring. After overcoming childhood asthma, food sensitivities, and generational patterns around health, she turned her personal transformation into a mission to inspire the Latino community to nourish their bodies and rewrite their story. Her story isn’t just about going plant based…it’s about confronting the emotional chaos, the family dynamics and the moments that pushed her to ask: “Who am I becoming?” A lifelong athlete, plant based cook, and mindset mentor, Tania’s transformation led her to create a space where wellness meets humour, flavour, movement, and the kind of honesty people don’t usually share online. She shares practical tools, delicious recipes, and lifestyle habits that help people. Today, Tania empowers everyone to take back their health, reconnect with their inner voice, and create a life that actually feels good, one recipe, one habit, and one brave decision at a time. And her message has become her signature: "If Tania Can, You CanTU". In this episode, we dive into: • Tania’s plant based journey and what inspired her to share her recipes online • Sneaky animal products commonly found in Mexican cuisine (like lard in beans, chicken stock in rice, and seasoning cubes that aren’t vegan) • The rise of plant based options in Mexico, especially in Mexico City • Tania’s favourite ingredient swaps for creating authentic flavours • Her top plant based recreations of classic dishes • How she inspires a bilingual audience that’s curious about healthy living, even if they’re not plant based Before the interview, Shawna also shares details about her upcoming 15-Hour Plant Based Nutrition Course, running online through Pacific Rim College from January 8th to February 5th. This course is ideal for nutrition students, nutritionists, and healthcare providers who want to better support plant based clients, as well as anyone already vegan or plant based who wants an in-depth understanding of nutrient needs and evidence-based guidance. To register, email registrar@pacificrimcollege.com. This episode is a delicious blend of culture, education, and inspiration, perfect for anyone who loves Mexican food, is curious about plant based living, or wants practical tools for navigating eating plant based within traditional cuisines. Learn more about Tania on her Instagram @plantbasedmexican and her YouTube @plantbasedmexican. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I chat with Sylvain Karpinski, founder and CEO of GUSTA Foods and SLY Foods, and one of the most innovative voices in Canada’s vegan food landscape. Sylvain has been vegan for two decades and has built two successful plant based companies rooted in his passion for sustainability, flavour, and adventure. GUSTA Foods quickly became a staple in Canadian grocery stores with its artisanal, clean-label vegan sausages, roasts, and cheeses. More recently, Sylvain launched SLY Foods: a line of gourmet, freeze-dried, plant based meals designed for adventurers who want nutritious, long-lasting meals that taste amazing. In this conversation, we explore: • Sylvain’s vegan journey and what inspires his work • The origins and growth of GUSTA Foods • Why he created SLY Foods and the gap it fills for outdoor enthusiasts • How the plant-based meat alternative market has evolved • His experiences as an adventure athlete and how that shaped SLY Foods This is an inspiring, insightful episode for anyone interested in vegan entrepreneurship, plant based innovation, or the intersection of food and adventure. Learn more at both @gustafoods and @slyfoods.ca ____________________________________________________________________ Before the interview, I also share details about my upcoming 15-Hour Plant Based Nutrition Course, running online through Pacific Rim College on Thursdays from 8am-11am PST from January 8th to February 5th. Open to everyone, not just students, this course covers nutrient requirements, how to respond to common criticisms of vegan diets, and evidence-based explanations for popular plant based nutrition myths. More info & to register: Pacific Rim College School of Continuing Education ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this mini solo episode, I share the 10 things that I wish everyone knew about being vegan. Everything from why veganism is not a diet, to the funny (and sometimes frustrating) realities of navigating a non-vegan world. I discuss the emotional and practical sides of vegan life: dealing with constant “nutrition experts,” learning to be overprepared, handling the never-ending jokes, and remembering that even when it doesn’t feel like it, every vegan choice makes a difference. I also talked about a new video by past guest Natalie Fulton about how vegans “lost the culture war,” exploring how veganism’s boom after Cowspiracy and EAT-Lancet was met with backlash from the meat industry and media misinformation. The episode wraps up with my own vegan story, which is coming up to my 32 year anniversary of going vegetarian this month, and how that eventually led to going vegan in 2002.  Mentioned in this episode: My private vegan nutrition consultations and upcoming Plant Based Nutrition Course - detail can be found at synergynutrition.ca Natalie Fulton’s video “How Vegans Lost the Culture War” on YouTube ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store , everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Why do we love some animals but eat others? In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Harvard-educated psychologist and author Dr. Melanie Joy to explore the invisible belief system of carnism, and how it shapes our values, culture, and food choices. We discuss the emotional side of activism, how to navigate anger and grief, and the importance of compassion, not just toward animals, but toward ourselves and each other. Dr. Joy also opens up about her new novel, A Half-Hearted Death Wish, and what inspired her to share this deeply human story. Whether you’re vegan, veg-curious, or simply interested in the psychology of eating, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of why society eats certain animals but not others. Learn more about Dr. Joy’s work at melaniejoy.org and carnism.org, as well as her Instagram @drmelaniejoy , and the Beyond Carnism Instagram @beyondcarnism. ____________________________________________________________________ 🥗 Need help with your plant-based nutrition? Book a private consultation at synergynutrition.ca for personalized guidance to meet your nutrient needs and feel your best. 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Soy is one of the most misunderstood foods out there — even within the vegan and plant-based community. In this mini solo episode, I break down the top myths about soy and share what the latest research really says. From hormones and breast cancer risk to thyroid health, “processed” tofu claims, and concerns about soy and the environment — this episode covers it all. You’ll learn why soy doesn’t increase estrogen or lower testosterone, how it may actually protect against certain cancers, and why cutting it out of your diet could mean missing out on a nutrient-dense, protein-packed food with decades of proven health benefits. Whether you’re still unsure about soy or just need some science-backed facts to share with skeptics, this episode will help you feel confident adding tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and edamame to your meals. Studies mentioned in this episode: 1. Dairy, soy, and risk of breast cancer: those confounded milks 2. Soy Isoflavones and Breast Cancer Risk: A Meta-analysis 3. Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on the Effect of Soy on Thyroid Function 4. Neither soy nor isoflavone intake affects male reproductive hormones: An expanded and updated meta-analysis of clinical studies 5. Clinical studies show no effects of soy protein or isoflavones on reproductive hormones in men: results of a meta-analysis ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I'm speaking with Dr. Jade Dittaro, a hospitalist, plant-based physician, and board certified lifestyle medicine practitioner.  Dr. Dittaro has spent years helping patients make meaningful changes to support their recovery and long-term health. She’s passionate about plant-based nutrition, preventive care, and empowering people with practical, evidence-based tools for improving wellbeing. We talked about her work in the hospital system and how receptive patients are to eating more plants, how Canada’s national health guidelines support plant-based diets, the first small steps to take if you’re feeling overwhelmed, and what it’s like raising kids on a plant-based diet. Learn more about Dr. Dittaro on her Instagram @drjadedittaro and Facebook @drjadedittaro. Dr. Dittaro mentioned both Aroga and LifestyleRx as places to find lifestyle medicine practitioners. ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Tila Kansagra, also known as The Plant Promoting Doctor on YouTube. Dr. Tila is Board Certified in Lifestyle Medicine, holds a certificate in Plant Based Nutrition, and works as a GP and private lifestyle coach. She supports clients with their health and weight loss goals by focusing on the six key pillars of lifestyle medicine—nutrition, movement, sleep, stress management, healthy relationships, and avoidance of risky substances—alongside their medical care. We talked about her personal health journey, how lifestyle medicine has shaped her practice with patients, and the importance of making small, sustainable changes that truly last. We also touched briefly on the misconception that carbs are to blame for type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that intramyocellular lipids play an important role in insulin sensitivity, and vegans have been found to have about 30% lower levels. For anyone interested, here’s the study I mentioned: “A low fat vegan diet and a conventional diabetes diet in the treatment of type 2 diabetes: a randomized controlled 74-week clinical trial.” Learn more about Dr. Tila on her YouTube Channel @plant_promoting_doctor, her Instagram @plant_promoting_doctor, and her website plantpromotingdoctor.com. ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I'm joined by Natalie Fulton, a passionate advocate for the animals, who went vegan during the pandemic and vowed to do whatever she could to help. Since then, she’s been creating content on YouTube, Substack, and Instagram, while also serving as the Media and Content Lead for Pro-Animal Future. In this episode, Natalie shares her experience with different forms of activism, from street outreach to creative campaigns like Elwood’s Dog Meat, and reflects on what’s most effective for inspiring others to take action. We also dive into broader topics like whether Gen Z is going vegan, and the ways veganism intersects with politics and culture today. This conversation is both thought-provoking and inspiring—whether you’re new to activism or looking for new ideas on how to make an impact, you’ll take a lot from Natalie’s insights. Learn more about Natalie on her YouTube @Natalie.Fulton and Instagram @nattiefulton. ____________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own nutrition journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I’m joined by Terri Chrisman, a distinguished speaker, podcaster, author of Fabulous Health, and board-certified nutritionist with the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. Terri is passionate about empowering people to reclaim their health, combining cutting-edge science with real-world, actionable strategies. Together, we dive into some of the most powerful aspects of lasting health transformation: Practical strategies to create food and lifestyle habits that stick A deep dive into the six pillars of health The mindset shifts that make change sustainable This conversation is packed with clarity, encouragement, and actionable takeaways. Whether you’re just beginning your health journey or looking to refine your habits, this episode will inspire you to take simple steps toward a healthier, more energized life. Learn more about Terri on her website, fabuloushealth.net, her Instagram @fabuloushealthtlc, and her podcast, The Fabulous Health Show. ___________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own health journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about my private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Coffee often gets a bad rap, but is it really something we need to avoid? And what exactly makes a meal “balanced”? In this solo mini episode, I break down two of the most common nutrition questions I get: whether it’s okay to drink coffee on an empty stomach, and the simple framework you can use to build meals that actually keep you full and energized. We’ll look at how coffee impacts appetite, and why it can be perfectly fine (and even beneficial) when enjoyed with or after a meal. Then, I’ll take you through the essentials of balanced eating: protein, carbs, fibre-rich fruits and veggies, and healthy fats, with practical examples of how to put it all together at home. If you’ve ever wondered how to enjoy your morning coffee without throwing off your day, or how to consistently create satisfying meals without overthinking, this episode is for you. ____________________________________________________________________  Need support with plant based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode of Vegan Boss Radio, I sit down with Maxime Sigouin, founder and CEO of Fit Vegan Coaching, one of the world’s leading whole-food, plant-based body recomposition programs. Over the past five years, Maxime and his team have helped more than 1,000 clients transform their body composition and health, with a special focus on empowering people over 50 to regain strength, vitality, and confidence through sustainable, plant-based strategies. A passionate advocate for the vegan lifestyle for over a decade, Maxime is on a mission to help 10,000 people get lean, thrive, and reduce their risk of chronic disease by 2033—and 1 million by 2050. Through evidence-based nutrition and compassionate coaching, he helps his clients not only reach their goals but also disease-proof their bodies for long-term health. He’s also the host of the award-nominated Fit Vegan Podcast, where he shares expert insights, inspiring client stories, and practical advice for thriving on a plant-based diet. Beyond coaching, Maxime is an athlete currently training for basketball, showing firsthand how powerful plants can be for performance. Originally from Canada, he now lives in California with his wife, Ivy, and their dog, Tempeh. This conversation dives deep into what it takes to achieve lasting results, why plant-based nutrition is such a powerful foundation for longevity, and how anyone—at any age—can start thriving on plants. Learn more about Maxime at fitvegancoaching.com, his Instagram @maximesigouincoach, and his podcast, The Fit Vegan Podcast. ___________________________________________________________________ 👉 If you’re ready to take the next step in your own health journey, book a free 15-minute discovery call with me to learn more about my private nutrition consultations. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

There are a lot of myths about vegan diets being “nutritionally incomplete” — but how much truth is there behind those claims? In this solo episode, I take a deep dive into some of the nutrients that are more recently being used to criticize vegan diets, including lysine, leucine, taurine, carnitine, carnosine, creatine, and choline. This is a very technical episode with a lot of numbers — on purpose. I want to show you exactly how much of each nutrient we actually need each day, and then break down how simple it is to get those amounts from common plant based foods. If you’ve ever heard someone say, “But where do vegans get ___?” — this episode will give you the practical food examples and clarity you need. Whether you’re new to veganism, long-term plant based, or just curious about the science, this episode will help you feel confident in meeting your nutritional needs without animal products. ____________________________________________________________________ Need support with plant based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details. If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

If you’re curious about how diet can dramatically impact chronic inflammation, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Dr. Jules Cormier, a physician, educator, and advocate for lifestyle medicine who transformed his health after years of living with multiple chronic conditions. Through a whole food, plant-based diet, Dr. Cormier reversed issues like asthma, eczema, and chronic urticaria — and now teaches future physicians about the power of nutrition. Since 2007, Dr. Cormier has practiced family medicine, taught at his local medical school, and led a thriving skin surgery clinic. After overcoming asthma, eczema, chronic urticaria, and cholinergic angioedema through evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle changes, he became a passionate proponent of plant-based living. Today, he teaches lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and family medicine to medical students, and shares his expertise as a naturopath and creator of plantbaseddrjules.com, a free resource for those pursuing better health. A committed athlete, Dr. Cormier has represented the Maritime provinces at the World Ninja Championships in Las Vegas (2022), Orlando (2023), and California (2024). As a public speaker and coach, he empowers others to take control of their health through sustainable nutrition and fitness, both in clinical practice and across his online platforms. In this episode, we talk about what inflammation really is, the difference between acute and chronic inflammation, and evidence-based ways to lower your risk through everyday food choices. Dr. Cormier also shares practical tips to help you make lasting changes without feeling restricted. Learn more about Dr. Jules on his website plantbaseddrjules.com, his Instagram @drjulescormier, and his podcast The Dr. Jules Plant Based Podcast. _________________________________________________________________ If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

Pushing past your limits, living intentionally, and staying fuelled for the long run. In this episode, I’m joined by Joe Gagnon — CEO, ultra-endurance athlete, high-performance coach, and author of Living Intentionally. Joe is driven by a simple mission: helping people realize they are capable of far more than they believe is possible. Over the years, he has led six companies as CEO, coached top performers, and pushed himself to physical and mental extremes—completing six Ironman races, running 100-mile ultramarathons, finishing Six marathons on Six continents in Six days, and completing the legendary Badwater 135 ultramarathon through Death Valley. As CEO of Raynmaker, he leads the development of an AI-powered sales platform designed to help small businesses grow smarter and faster. As a high-performance coach, he partners with bold, ambitious leaders to break through their self-imposed limits and lead lives filled with purpose and greater impact. Joe’s life and his second book, Living Intentionally, are rooted in the belief that growth happens at the edge. It’s in the uncomfortable, uncertain, and transformational moments that we find out who we truly are. The principles of grit, grace, and groundedness guide every step he takes. We dive into Joe’s plant-based endurance journey, his mindset for success, and why proper hydration and electrolytes are essential for anyone tackling extreme endurance races. Learn more about Joe and Living Intentionally at thehighperformancelife.net and on Instagram at @thehighperformancelife  ________________________________________________________________ If you’re looking for 100% vegan supplements, check out my online supplement store — everything is carefully curated, ships anywhere in Canada, and is always 10% off for everyone, all the time.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @veganbossapparel on Instagram. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Persi — vegan travel curator and founder of The Getaway Co. — to talk all things plant-based travel! We explore the joys and challenges of traveling as a vegan, how The Getaway Co. creates unforgettable experiences for travellers interested in plant based diets or are already vegan, and why being surrounded by like-minded people can make your trip even more meaningful. We also chat about the community Amanda has built with the local vegan guides in each of the destinations she visits, what goes into ensuring there are not just food options but amazing food options, and what it's really like to go on one of her trips to places like Italy, Portugal, Greece, and beyond. Whether you're dreaming of a vegan vacation or curious about what a curated vegan travel experience will be like, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and empowered. 🌿 Learn more about Amanda and The Getaway Co. at thegetawayco.com and on Instagram at @thegetawayco. Before we get into the episode, I share a little bit about my upcoming 15-hour Plant-Based Nutrition Course at Pacific Rim College — an evidence-based program designed for anyone transitioning to a vegan or plant-based lifestyle or working with clients who are. Topics include: The differences between vegan vs. plant-based diets Protein quality and nutrient bioavailability Digestive health and gut support Key nutrients and common myths Vegan supplement guidance …and so much more. 🎓 Sign up for the Plant-Based Nutrition Course at Pacific Rim College synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @vegan_boss on Instagram. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.

In this episode of Vegan Boss Radio, I’m joined by Emmanuelle Bonham, founder of Kind Luxury — a lifestyle philosophy rooted in the idea that we don’t have to choose between living well and living kindly. We talk about the different ways people become inspired to go vegan, what it’s like being vegan in Dubai, her hands-on work in animal rescue, and how her background in fitness evolved into a compassionate vegan lifestyle. We also dive into habit change — and why taking small, sustainable steps is often the most effective approach. Emmanuelle brings over nine years of experience in fitness, plant-based nutrition, and wellness, and her work — including collaborations with brands like Adidas and Greenpeace — encourages others to live more intentionally (not perfectly) and with purpose. ✨ Resources & Mentions Kind Luxury: @emmanuellebonham Vegan Boss Apparel: available at synergynutrition.ca (ships to CA/US/MX) or on Etsy (ships worldwide except EU) Plant-Based Nutrition Course at Pacific Rim College: runs Sept 3rd – Oct 1st, Wednesdays 12–3pm PST. Contact PRC to register. — 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this episode resonated with you. 📩 Questions or feedback? DM me anytime @vegan_boss!

In this solo episode of Vegan Boss Radio, I dive into the narratives of ex-vegans who’ve become outspoken anti-vegans. While I won’t name names, I break down some of the common claims they’re making, why the science doesn’t support them, and how misinformation about plant-based diets continues to spread online. We’ll look at: The recurring myths about plant based nutrition Why their symptoms likely weren’t caused by a balanced vegan diet How extreme or overly restrictive versions of veganism often lead to burnout I wrap up with an important reminder: if you're unsure whether you're meeting your nutrient needs, or you're dealing with any lingering health issues, it's essential to work with a qualified plant-based health professional. Don’t let misinformation derail your progress. 🌱 If you're looking to deepen your understanding of plant-based nutrition, check out my 15-hour Plant-Based Nutrition Course — it’s science-based, practical, and designed to help you thrive on a vegan diet. Please email me if you have any questions, or contact Pacific Rim College to register.  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @vegan_boss on Instagram. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.   References: Hellerstein MK. De novo lipogenesis in humans: metabolic and regulatory aspects. Eur J Clin Nutr. 1999. Field CJ, Ryan EA, Thomson AB, Clandinin MT. The effect of dietary fat on immune cell fatty acid composition and function. Lipids. 2000. Sutliffe J et al. C-reactive protein response to a vegan lifestyle intervention. Complement Ther Med. 2015  Jordonson A et al. Vicia faba agglutinin, the lectin present in broad beans, stimulates differentiation of undifferentiated colon cancer cells. Gut. 1999 Taylor E et al. DASH-style diet associates with reduced risk for kidney stones. J Am Soc Nephrol. 2009 Sampath A et al. Kidney stones and the ketogenic diet: risk factors and prevention. J Child Neurol. 2007  López-González A et al. Phytate (myo-inositol hexaphosphate) and risk factors for osteoporosis. J Med Food. 2008  López-González A et al. Protective effect of myo-inositol hexaphosphate (phytate) on bone mass loss in postmenopausal women. Eur J Nutr. 2013 Singh R et al. Mushroom Lectins as Promising Anticancer Substances. Curr Protein Pept Sci. 2016 Chai, W., Liebman, M. Effect of Different Cooking Methods on Vegetable Oxalate Content. J Agric Food Chem. 2005.  Pusztai, A., Grant, G. Lectin characterization protocols. Methods in Molecular Biology. 2004.

In this episode of Vegan Boss Radio, we explore what it means to live vegan — not just in our food choices, but in all areas of life. Being vegan is about more than diet; it’s a philosophy and lifestyle that avoids harm to animals, whether that’s in what we eat, what we wear, or the industries we support. Our guest is Desirée Dupuis, founder of the luxury vegan footwear brand Voes & Co. We talk about how a book about health first sparked her interest in plant-based living, which eventually deepened into a lifelong ethical commitment to animals. Desirée shares her experience launching a fashion brand rooted in sustainability and values, and we dig into the impact of traditional leather production vs. plant-based and synthetic alternatives — and why it matters. We also explore what it's really like to build a high-end vegan fashion brand, the importance of customer community, and how business can be a powerful vehicle for advocacy and change. ✨ Desirée's Bio: With over two decades of experience in brand development, storytelling, and purpose-driven marketing, Desirée Dupuis is a force for conscious change. As a social entrepreneur, author, and speaker, she is redefining industries through sustainability, ethics, and innovation. Desirée is the founder of Voes & Co, a global vegan footwear brand on a mission to revolutionize fashion with next-generation materials – proving that style, comfort, and sustainability can coexist without compromise. Beyond business, Desirée is deeply committed to global impact and education. As Chair of Ruben’s Shoes Society, an international NGO she co-founded, she helps provide high-quality education to over 600 students in the Dominican Republic, breaking the cycle of poverty through learning. A passionate vegan advocate since 2008, Desirée is on a mission to challenge the status quo, amplify conscious consumerism, and inspire others to create lasting change. She's the author of Consciously Chic: A Playbook for Ethical Fashion and is proud to share her thoughts on the future of fashion — beyond animals and plastic. Find Desirée on her Instagram at @desireedupuis and Voes & Co at @voes_and_co, as well as the website voesandcompany.com. ___________________________________________________________________  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @vegan_boss on Instagram. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.

In this episode of Vegan Boss Radio, I’m joined by Kate Galli — Master Personal Trainer, Life Coach, NLP Practitioner, and host of the Healthification podcast. Kate is qualified as a Master Personal Trainer, Life Coach, NLP Practitioner and has also completed the eCornell Plant Based Nutrition Certificate program.  Kate first got into fitness as a way to transform her body and confidence. She has spent 19 years helping 1,000's of individuals sculpt a body and life they love and over the past 9+ years has focused on Vegan Health Coaching as one of the most powerful ways to advocate for the animals is to be fit, strong and healthy.  Her vision: To create a fit, strong, happy, healthy, compassionate vegan world.  Via the Healthification podcast Kate has interviewed hundreds of passionate and compassionate authors, athletes, doctors and entrepreneurs.  We dive into a deeply honest conversation about the emotional side of veganism — especially the anger and frustration that can surface when you become aware of animal exploitation. Kate shares how she moved through these intense emotions, and how leading with love (rather than anger) has improved her advocacy, relationships, and joy. We also explore how to stay grounded in this work without burning out, how to advocate in a way that truly connects, and why building a kind, compassionate vegan world begins within. You can find Kate on her website: Strongbodygreenplanet.com , Instagram: @strongbodygreenplanet, Facebook: Strongbodygreenplanet, and Youtube: Strongbodygreenplanet ____________________________________________________________________ Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @vegan_boss on Instagram. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.

In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsay O’Donnell — a seasoned marketing strategist, intuitive business coach, and former agency founder with over a decade of experience helping bold, purpose-driven brands grow their impact. As the founder of PQ Consulting, Lindsay worked with dozens of food, wellness, and lifestyle businesses across North America, and now supports entrepreneurs in uncovering the mindset blocks and brand clarity they need to truly thrive — not just chase success. She blends sharp strategy with deep intuition to help business owners trust their gut, get clear on their messaging, and market in a way that feels both effective and aligned. Lindsay is also a longtime vegan — vegetarian for over 25 years and fully vegan for the last 15 — and we had a great conversation about all things marketing, vegan business, effective ways to promote veganism, and what it really means to show up authentically in a world of constant content. You can find Lindsay on Instagram at @pq.consulting and her website pqconsultinggroup.com. _________________________________________________________________  Need support with plant-based nutrition? I offer private consultations to help you build a balanced, sustainable approach. Check out synergynutrition.ca for details.  Check out the Vegan Boss apparel line to spread the vegan message wherever you go — everything is on the website and @vegan_boss on Instagram. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you tune in.