Episodes
  In this episode, host Colleen Patrick-Goudreau dives into the complex but crucial task of understanding why people vote the way they do—and what that means for how we advocate for animals. In it, she shares insights into the psychological differences between conservative and progressive mindsets explores how these perspectives shape beliefs and actions and discusses how we can use this understanding to refine our message for animals She looks at ways to engage with people whose...
Published 11/22/24
In today's episode, host Colleen Patrick-Goudreau talks all about omega-3s—those essential fats we all need for heart, brain, and overall health. But here's the catch: instead of getting them through fish, which has ethical, environmental, and health concerns, we can go straight to the source: marine plants like algae. Omega-3s aren't included in a regular blood panel, so we'll dive into why it's important to get tested, what the optimal levels are, and why you don’t want to fall below them....
Published 10/25/24
PRE-ORDER COLLEEN'S NEW BOOK at http://www.joyfulvegan.com/preorder A dilemma a lot of new vegans grapple with is what to do with all the animal-derived products they have from their pre-vegan days — leather shoes, wool sweaters, down-filled pillows, etc. — and a question a lot of people ask is "is it vegan to wear / buy second hand leather, wool, silk, etc. In both cases, the harm has been done, but there are a lot of arguments for and against wearing these items, including:  being vegan...
Published 10/18/24
In this episode, Colleen dives into the importance of getting regular blood work to monitor key biomarkers, prevent disease, and assess your overall health—whether you’re vegan or not. She discusses what the optimal numbers are for such biomarkers as LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, iron, B12, and more to get a clear picture of your wellness.  Learn why tracking these levels helps catch potential issues early, so you can make informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle to optimize your...
Published 09/28/24
In this episode, Colleen dives into the rich history of bread, exploring its ancient origins, cultural significance, and how it's been a vital, naturally vegan staple across the globe. From the earliest flatbreads baked in ancient civilizations to the diverse leavened breads enjoyed today, we'll uncover why bread has always been more than just food—it's a symbol of sustenance, tradition, and community.  Join us as we celebrate the story of bread and its delicious, plant-based legacy! Also,...
Published 09/13/24
Zoe Weil is the co-founder and president of the Institute for Humane Education, a leading organization dedicated to creating a more just, compassionate, and sustainable world through education. As a pioneer in the field of humane education, Zoe has devoted her life to teaching and inspiring people of all ages to make ethical choices that benefit animals, the environment, and all forms of life. Her work empowers educators and individuals to incorporate humane values into their lives and...
Published 08/30/24
Ever wondered where the word 'shambles' comes from and how it evolved to describe chaos? In today's Small Bite Sound Bite, host Colleen Patrick-Goudreau  unravels the fascinating history of 'shambles'—from its medieval origins in butcher shops to its modern-day meaning as a state of disorder. —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option you choose.  ...
Published 08/28/24
  In today's Small Bite Sound Bite, host Colleen Patrick-Goudreau tackles the question: Is raising your children vegan an imposition of your values, or a thoughtful choice for their well-being? Join Colleen as she explores the implications of dietary choices on the next generation and the ethics of shaping their food beliefs. —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to...
Published 08/21/24
In this episode of Food for Thought, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau explores the nuances of language surrounding our food choices. She revisits the topic of "The Language of Meat" and unpacks how the words we use can disguise or reveal the true nature of what we consume. From the shift of "meat" from a general term for food to one that refers only to animal flesh, to the way language impacts our cultural norms and perceptions, we uncover the importance of choosing our words mindfully.  —————— ...
Published 08/16/24
In today's Small Bite Sound Bite episode, host Colleen Patrick-Goudreau explores the ethical considerations of drinking cow's milk. While cows aren't killed for their milk, the dairy industry involves complex issues around animal welfare, environmental impact, and the life cycle of dairy cows. Join Colleen as she delves into whether consuming cow's milk truly aligns with compassionate and sustainable living. —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon...
Published 08/14/24
In today's Small Bite Sound Bite, host Colleen Patrick-Goudreau address the assertion that what people eat is a personal choice and that people don’t want to be told what to eat. They see their food choices as being their own personal choice, and they don’t want anyone (i.e. vegans) interfering with their right to choose what to eat or how to live.  —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to...
Published 08/07/24
  In this episode, host Colleen Patrick-Goudreau dives into the world of animal lookalikes to help clear up common confusions. She explores how to tell the difference between: Crocodiles vs. Alligators Ravens vs. Crows Bees vs. Wasps Rabbits vs. Hares Turtles vs. Tortoises Frogs vs. Toads Llamas vs. Alpacas Dolphins vs. Porpoises Bison vs. Buffalo ...based on their habitats, appearances, vocalizations, and behaviors. Whether you're curious about wildlife or just want to impress...
Published 08/02/24
Despite our best intentions to protect animals, ourselves, and the planet, is "humane meat" really the answer? Tune in to uncover the truth behind the label and discover more compassionate alternatives. —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option you choose.  Support this podcast today at JoyfulVegan.com/Donate Visit my website: JoyfulVegan.com ...
Published 07/31/24
Just because we can't be perfect doesn't mean we should be indifferent. Imperfection is built into being vegan, because imperfection is built into being human. But just because we can't do everything doesn't mean we shouldn't do anything. —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option you choose.  Support this podcast today at JoyfulVegan.com/Donate ...
Published 07/24/24
Curious about what's really behind that carton of eggs? In our latest podcast episode, we dive deep into the hidden truths of the egg industry, unravel the myths around "free-range" eggs, and explore the reality of their living conditions. Plus, we'll tackle the ethical considerations of keeping hens as pets and eating their eggs. Join us as we shed light on these important issues and offer healthier, more compassionate alternatives to egg consumption. Tune in to learn how you can make...
Published 07/19/24
FALSEHOOD: Reading the news makes you engaged. TRUTH: Reading the news makes you enraged. If you feel anxiety reading the news, stop reading the news. True engagement is being proactive not reactive, being curious, being thoughtful, being discerning, being contemplative. Listen to this episode to become truly engaged — not enraged — and take a break for 30 days. I bet you’ll feel better and even more informed. —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon...
Published 07/17/24
Why I recommend Rwanda as the first African country to visit if you've never been to this continent. Why South Africa is not one of my favorite places. Why Botswana is the place to go for ethical safaris. What you need to know about food, transportation, visas, vaccines, safety, and weather.  All of this and more in today's episode.  —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other...
Published 07/05/24
What does it mean for a wine to be labeled "SUSTAINABLE," "ORGANIC," "NATURAL," "BIODYNAMIC," or "VEGAN"? Can you be one without the other? What are the most important considerations when buying any agricultural product? This and A LOT MORE on today's episode of Food for Thought. —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option you choose.  Support this...
Published 06/21/24
We are living in a time when group loyalty, ideology, and identity politics are valued more than kindness, reason, critical thinking, and tolerance for another point of view. And it scares the bejesus out of me.  Today's episode is (yet another) call for compassion.  —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option you choose.  Support this podcast...
Published 06/09/24
Today we dive into the surprising history of one of America's favorite condiments and discover the animals hidden in the word ketchup, as well as in the original recipe. I promise not to ruin your taste for this tasty staple, but you may never hear the word ketchup again without thinking of its origins.  —————— Join our awesome community and support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option...
Published 05/24/24
You pestered your friends and bugged your family until they finally listened to Food for Thought. You nagged your partner to join you on an all-inclusive vegan trip with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, badgering them to the point of harrassment. After incessant hounding didn't work, you lured them in with the ultimate bait: the best plant-based food on the planet!  In those few sentences, there are no less than EIGHT (8) animal-related words; i.e. animalogies. Can you spot them all? Listen to...
Published 05/10/24
When a vegan restaurant announced they were going to start serving beef, bison, chicken, and eggs, because they believed regenerative animal agriculture and not plant-based eating would reverse climate change, I knew I had to bump this topic up to the top of the queue.  Join the conversation in my LIVESTREAM on Monday, April 29th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. PT! All Patreon supporters welcome at every level. Details and special link for joining here.  —————— Join our awesome community and support...
Published 04/28/24
We made history running the very first vegan group trip to Japan, and it was a huge success. While Buddhism-inspired vegetarianism has been part of the Japanese culture since around the 6th and 7th centuries, "veganism" as a concept is very new. In this first episode, I provide a frame through which to understand the challenges and the threads of eating plant-based in Japan, including  the influence of Buddhism and other factors that resulted in a mostly plant-based culture for most of its...
Published 04/12/24
The history of the delicious, soft, pillowy pretzel goes back hundreds of years and demonstrates once again that we have more food traditions that reflect abstaining from animal products than indulging in them. Take a listen to the Medieval origins of this food, how it saved a city, and why it's associated with Easter. —————— Don't forget to support this podcast through Patreon or as an Apple Subscriber for bonus material, early access to episodes, and other perks, depending on the option...
Published 03/01/24