Vegans Explore Podcast

What does it really take to create a documentary that changes minds, shifts culture, and sparks real-world impact?In this powerful roundtable conversation, leading Vegan documentary directors Shaun Monson, Louie Psihoyos, Mark Pierschel, and Keegan Kuhn come together to discuss storytelling, strategy, and social change.These filmmakers are behind some of the most influential documentaries of our time, including Earthlings, Cowspiracy, What the Health, The Game Changers, Racing Extinction, The End of Meat, and Live and Let Live. Together, they explore how film can influence food systems, animal ethics, public health, environmental awareness, and cultural norms on a global scale.The panel discusses what it takes to reach audiences outside the Vegan bubble, how to balance impact with accessibility, how to navigate resistance and funding challenges, and why documentaries remain one of the most powerful tools for long-term change.Whether you are Vegan, plant-curious, a filmmaker, or someone interested in how stories shape society, this episode offers rare behind-the-scenes insight into impact-driven filmmaking from the directors who helped define the modern Vegan documentary movement.Listen now and explore more episodes at VegansExplore.com/Podcast.

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, we sit down with Veronica Menin and Diego Tosoni, the co-founders of Love Life Cafe and true OGs of the South Florida Vegan community. What started as a small café inside a wellness and yoga space grew into one of Miami’s most respected plant-based restaurants, built on purpose, patience, and deep community roots.We talk about the long game of running a Vegan business. The early days, organic growth, constant reinvention, surviving COVID, navigating acquisition, and ultimately reclaiming ownership, and what it really takes to stay true to your values when trends shift and pressure mounts. This conversation goes far beyond food into conscious business, whole foods, community loyalty, and why mission matters more than hype.If you care about Vegan culture, ethical entrepreneurship, or building something meaningful that lasts, this episode offers an honest look at resilience, identity, and staying aligned while the world changes around you.🎧 Listen now at VegansExplore.com/Podcast and explore more stories, businesses, and community resources from across the global Vegan movement.

In this episode, we sit down with Gwena Hunter, a visionary leader reshaping food access through compassion, faith, and action. Gwena shares her powerful Vegan origin story, the spiritual awakening that transformed her path, and how manifestation played a role in launching the first brick-and-mortar Vegan food bank founded by a Black woman.This conversation explores the intersection of food justice, community care, and personal responsibility. Gwena breaks down what it really takes to build sustainable food systems, serve hundreds of families each month, and stay grounded while doing emotionally demanding work. From spirituality and self-accountability to Vegan food security and planetary unity, this episode goes far beyond the plate.Listeners will walk away inspired to think differently about food, purpose, and their role in creating healthier communities.Learn more, explore show notes, and support the mission at VegansExplore.com/Podcast.

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, we sit down with Stephanie Small, Head of Community at Date Night, a virtual speed dating platform reimagining how people connect in a swipe-fatigued world.We explore how Date Night is creating real, face-to-face connections through virtual speed dating, why this model resonates with the Vegan community, and how their ongoing partnership with PETA adds a powerful give-back component that supports animals in need.From meeting up to seven people in one hour to removing the pressure, ghosting, and guesswork of traditional dating apps, this conversation dives into how values-based dating can be efficient, meaningful, and community-driven.If you are Vegan and tired of navigating dating spaces that do not align with your lifestyle or ethics, this episode offers a refreshing look at how connection, compassion, and intention can come together.Learn how Vegan speed dating works, why it is gaining momentum across the U.S. and Canada, and where to find upcoming events.Visit VegansExplore.com/Podcast to discover more episodes, community stories, and ways to connect with the global Vegan movement.

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, we welcome back John Lewis, widely known as Badass Vegan, for a powerful conversation about growth, discipline, and purpose.John shares his journey from working as a butcher to becoming one of the most recognizable voices in Vegan fitness and culture. We dive into his upcoming book, the deeper meaning behind staying Vegan long term, and how food, mindset, and accountability shape not just our bodies, but our lives.This conversation goes beyond diet trends. It explores mental resilience, community impact, redefining what Vegan living looks like, and why compassion is often more effective than confrontation. John also opens up about fitness, fatherhood, honoring family legacy, and building a life rooted in intention.Whether you are Vegan, Veg-curious, or simply focused on personal growth, this episode offers insight, motivation, and real-world perspective from someone living the journey.🎧 Listen now and explore more at VegansExplore.com/Podcast

In this powerful episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, we sit down with Dotsie Bausch, Olympic silver medalist, Vegan advocate, and founder of Switch4Good.Dotsie shares her deeply personal Vegan Origin Story, from battling eating disorders and addiction to discovering cycling later in life and ultimately standing on the Olympic podium at nearly 40 years old. She reflects on the mindset shifts that carried her through elite competition, including her concept of turning fear into “three minutes of opportunity.”The conversation then moves into her transition to a plant-based lifestyle during her Olympic training years, a time when Vegan athletes were virtually unheard of. Dotsie explains how removing dairy transformed her performance, recovery, and long-term health.We also explore the birth of Switch4Good and its bold mission to challenge Big Dairy through education, corporate accountability, and federal policy change. Dotsie breaks down the ADD SOY Act, school milk mandates, food equity issues affecting children, and how listeners can take action to support systemic change.This episode is a reminder that healing, courage, and impact often begin with one uncomfortable truth and one brave decision.Listen, learn, and explore how individual choices can ripple into global change at VegansExplore.com/Podcast.

In this educational episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, we explore the Alkaline Diet through the teachings and legacy of Dr. Sebi. The conversation focuses on the core principles behind his philosophy, including his belief that excess acidity and mucus in the body contribute to disease, and why he emphasized mineral-rich, non-hybrid plant foods.We break down the foods commonly associated with his lifestyle, the foods he discouraged, and how the alkaline approach differs from Vegan and whole food plant-based diets. The episode also examines why interest in Dr. Sebi has resurfaced in recent years, touches on key moments in his public history, and addresses the ongoing debates surrounding his work and legacy.This episode is designed to inform, not persuade. It offers historical context, foundational concepts, and space for listeners to explore the ideas thoughtfully and decide what resonates for them.

Every week, real progress is happening across the plant-based world, even when it is not trending on social media. In this episode, we break down the plant-based developments you might have missed and why they matter for the future of food, travel, and culture.From new public nutrition guidelines in Europe that include plant-based meals in schools, to airlines like Lufthansa, Delta Air Lines, and Virgin Atlantic expanding and improving Vegan meal options, we explore how normalization is quietly happening at scale. We also look at how cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages are setting new standards by making plant-based food a visible, default option.We discuss the ongoing conversation around whether Veganism is fading and why leaders like Miyoko Schinner and health educators such as Will Bulsiewicz point to evolution, not decline. The movement is shifting toward whole foods, better systems, cultural relevance, and accessibility.We also spotlight major cultural moments like Vegan Campout celebrating its tenth anniversary, showing how Veganism continues to grow through education, activism, and community.If you care about where the plant-based movement is really headed, this episode offers a grounded, global look at progress beyond the hype. Listen in, stay curious, and explore more at VegansExplore.com/podcast.

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Will “Dr. B” Bulsiewicz, New York Times bestselling author and leading voice in gut health science, for a deep and accessible conversation on fiber, microbiomes, and the future of human health.Dr. B breaks down why the gut microbiome functions like a newly discovered organ, how fiber fuels healing throughout the entire body, and why diversity of plants matters more than perfection. We explore the science behind inflammation, immunity, metabolism, and even cancer outcomes, while keeping the conversation inclusive for Vegans, pre-Vegans, flexitarians, and anyone curious about eating more plants.This episode also dives into Dr. B’s latest project, The Fiber-Fueled Cookbook, and why he views food as a toolkit for long-term health rather than a rigid set of rules. From fermented foods to everyday plant choices, this conversation offers practical insights you can apply immediately.Listen in to understand how small shifts toward fiber-rich, plant-forward eating can unlock powerful health benefits and why the future of medicine starts in the gut.🎧 Explore more episodes, resources, and community tools at VegansExplore.com/Podcast

James Wildman of the Animal Rights Foundation of Florida has spent over a decade speaking to students across the state, reaching more than 100,000 people through his iconic presentation, 101 Reasons to Go Vegan. In this episode, James breaks down how education, humor, and evidence-based storytelling can shift perspectives without preaching. We explore how Veganism has evolved, what resonates most with students today, common myths around protein and dairy, and why meeting people where they are matters more than winning arguments. This conversation is a powerful look at how compassionate education creates lasting change and why the next generation may be more open than we think. Learn more, get involved, and explore resources at VegansExplore.com.

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, Sean A. Russell sits down with Noah Hyams, founder of Vegapreneur and the new owner of Vegan Cuts, for an honest conversation about the current state of vegan entrepreneurship.Noah shares why this has been the hardest year yet for vegan businesses, what he has seen behind the scenes as restaurants and brands struggle, and why community is not just helpful but essential for survival. From acquiring one of the longest-running vegan discovery box brands to building the largest plant-based business community, Noah breaks down how unfair advantages are created through collaboration, shared resources, and aligned values.This episode is a must-listen for vegan founders, creators, and mission-driven entrepreneurs looking to navigate a challenging economy while staying rooted in purpose.Learn more: https://www.vegpreneur.org/

In this candid solo episode, Sean A. Russell, founder of Vegans Explore, shares a real-time status update on where the platform stands and where it is headed next. From navigating burnout and balancing a full-time career to rethinking content, community growth, and sustainability, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to build a global Vegan community with integrity.Sean reflects on the evolution from SoFlo Vegans to Vegans Explore, why slowing down can be a strategic move, and how building strong foundations matters more than chasing visibility. He also shares his long-term vision for city-based Community Managers, sustainable funding, and creating real resources for Vegans, businesses, and creators alike.If you have ever felt the weight of a big vision, questioned your pace, or wondered if the hard moments are a sign to quit or a sign you are close, this episode is for you.Learn more, join the community, and take part in shaping what comes next at VegansExplore.com/Podcast.

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, Sean A. Russell takes a clear, grounded look at one of the most misunderstood health conditions today, type 2 diabetes.This conversation goes beyond surface-level talking points to explore what is actually happening inside the body. Drawing from decades of scientific research and insights from leading plant-based physicians and educators, Sean breaks down why insulin resistance, not sugar alone, sits at the center of type 2 diabetes. The episode explains how excess saturated fat disrupts insulin signaling, why low-carbohydrate diets can appear effective in the short term, and how whole food, plant-based nutrition helps restore metabolic function.Listeners will also learn why diabetes is often oversimplified, how different forms of diabetes are commonly misunderstood, which lab markers truly matter, and why early intervention can make a meaningful difference. This episode is designed to inform, not persuade, and to give listeners a clearer framework for understanding a complex topic without hype or fear.This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Sean A. Russell is not a medical doctor. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional before making medical or dietary decisions.Explore more episodes, resources, and community conversations at VegansExplore.com.

In this powerful and practical conversation, Sean A. Russell sits down with Dr. Neal Barnard, physician, researcher, author, and president of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, to answer the most common health questions people ask about plant-based living.Drawing from decades of clinical research and real-world experience, Dr. Barnard breaks down how a whole food, plant-based lifestyle can help prevent and even reverse chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and hormone-related cancers. He also addresses long-debated topics including soy myths, dairy consumption, cholesterol, eggs, pregnancy on a plant-based diet, autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s, meal timing, and the critical role of fiber.This episode is designed as a practical resource you can return to again and again, offering clear, science-backed answers from a plant-based physician who has helped reshape how medicine understands food as treatment. Along the way, Dr. Barnard also reflects on compassion, environmental responsibility, and why healthy food habits may be one of the greatest gifts we can give the next generation.Listen in for clarity, empowerment, and a reminder that food is not just fuel. It is powerful medicine.👉 Learn more, explore resources, and join the global community at VegansExplore.com/Podcast 

In this powerful episode, Sean A. Russell sits down with legendary journalist, author, and activist Jane Velez-Mitchell for a wide-ranging conversation that bridges broadcast media, Vegan advocacy, and cultural change. Jane shares her deeply personal Vegan origin story, shaped by family history, investigative journalism, and a defining on-air moment that transformed her life.Together, they explore Jane’s decades in television news, her work at CNN Headline News, and how that experience led to the creation of JaneUnchained.com, a global Vegan news network powered by grassroots contributors. The discussion dives into animal agriculture, climate change, worker justice, media responsibility, and the role of social media as a modern activism tool.Jane also reflects on inclusivity in the Vegan movement, the rise of plant-based food innovation, the impact of COVID-19, and why compassion is the true foundation of a healthier, more just world.Listeners will leave inspired, informed, and reminded that every voice, post, and choice matters.Learn more and explore the community at VegansExplore.com/Podcast  

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, Sean A. Russell sits down with Helene Greenberg from VegFest Expos to talk about what it really takes to build and sustain Vegan festivals across the United States. From small community pop-ups to multi-city VegFests drawing thousands, Helene shares the behind-the-scenes reality of event organizing, innovation, burnout, and why collaboration matters more than ever.They explore the future of VegFest Expos, including a bold shift toward health and fitness-focused events, partnerships with The Vegan Squad and Bodybuilding Vegan, and how these festivals are designed to welcome non-Vegans with curiosity, not pressure. The conversation also dives into shopping small, supporting local vendors, the thoughtful use of AI in mission-driven businesses, and why real-world community spaces are irreplaceable.Listeners will walk away with a deeper appreciation for Vegan event organizers, a clearer picture of where VegFests are headed in 2026, and practical inspiration for supporting the Vegan movement in everyday ways.Learn more about upcoming events, discover how festivals serve as a warm entry point into plant-based living, and find ways to stay connected with the broader Vegan community.👉 Explore more episodes, resources, and community initiatives at VegansExplore.com

Sean A. Russell sits down with Tim Leclercq, co-founder of Maizly, creators of the world’s first corn milk. Recorded live at Plant Based World Expo, this conversation explores how a simple idea became a four-year journey of innovation, perseverance, and 120 product iterations. Tim shares how corn went from an overlooked crop with a bad reputation to the hero ingredient behind a neutral-tasting, fiber-rich, environmentally efficient milk alternative.Listeners will learn why Maizly chose corn, how they solved the taste problem for flexitarians, what makes corn milk so sustainable, and where people can find it today. This episode is perfect for innovators, Vegan entrepreneurs, and anyone excited to see new ideas push the movement forward.Visit VegansExplore.com/podcast to discover more Vegan brands and stories.

Sean A. Russell sits down with Bunnie Cakes founder Mariana to explore the heartfelt story behind one of Miami’s most iconic Vegan brands. Mariana shares how her journey began with her children’s dairy allergies and grew into a business that filled a major gap in Miami’s dessert market. She opens up about closing her retail store in 2020, the spark that led to the Ready to Bake cupcake batter line, and the courage required to expand into the national CPG space. This episode is full of lessons on intuition, persistence, and staying true to your passion.

In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, Sean A. Russell breaks down the European Union’s renewed push to restrict plant based and lab grown meat companies from using familiar terms like burger, milk, yogurt, and cheese. We explore what this proposal means for everyday shoppers, Vegan businesses, and the future of sustainable food innovation.You will hear how Big Ag is pressuring lawmakers, why Paul McCartney has stepped into the conversation, and how this decision could influence food labeling laws in the United States. We also clarify why the proposed rules would not apply to the United Kingdom now that it is no longer part of the EU.If adopted, this legislation could reshape store shelves and slow the growth of plant based alternatives at a critical time. Tune in to learn what is at stake and how global food culture may shift in response.Visit VegansExplore.com for more episodes and community resources.

Confessions of a Claimed Meat Industry Insider dives into one of the most talked about AMAs on Reddit, where an anonymous user claimed to be a former employee of a meat industry trade group paid to spread misinformation online. Their identity cannot be verified, so this reenacted interview is presented purely for entertainment and media literacy awareness.Host Sean A. Russell guides listeners through the alleged tactics used to discredit Veganism, including fake accounts, exaggerated narratives, and coordinated online messaging. This episode challenges listeners to think critically and question what they see on the internet, no matter the source.Explore more episodes and join the community at VegansExplore.com/podcast.