017: The Intersection of Juneteenth and Veganism: A Call to Action with Kathleen Gage and VLynn Hawkins

“Do No Harm” is not an unfamiliar term, yet why is it that it becomes such a revelation to us on our journey to understanding life? In this compelling episode of the Veganpreneur Revolution Podcast, cohosts VLynn Hawkins and Kathleen Gage sit down with filmmaker and vegan advocate Priya Acharya. Priya shares her journey from being a lifelong vegetarian, raised in a Brahmin Hindu family, to becoming a passionate vegan activist. She opens up about her awakening to the ethical issues of dairy consumption, her spiritual crisis around the concept of "do no harm," and how mindfulness and compassion became key drivers in her advocacy. Priya also discusses her upcoming documentary Do No Harm, which explores the hidden truths of the dairy industry, both in the United States and India. With deep personal insight and heartfelt storytelling, Priya explains how her film aims to open eyes, provoke thought, and inspire others to adopt a more compassionate, vegan lifestyle. Key Points: [03:15] Priya’s upbringing in a vegetarian Brahmin household and her early advocacy for vegetarianism. [07:45] Her shift from vegetarianism to veganism, sparked by a growing awareness of the dairy industry's harm, including the suffering of calves and cows. [11:00] The impact of mindfulness and the concept of "do no harm" on her decision to become vegan and her struggles with the contradictions she observed in the wellness and mindfulness communities. [19:03] Insights into her documentary Do No Harm, a film highlighting the ethical and environmental issues in the dairy industry, and how her personal story is woven into the narrative. [24:15] Priya’s journey from being a vegan to becoming an advocate and filmmaker, and how she began creating her documentary. [25:56] Her thoughts on how to approach the conversation about veganism and compassion, especially when talking to non-vegans. [26:50] The importance of celebrating small steps towards veganism and how support can lead to long-term change. [28:32] How Priya hopes her film and advocacy will resonate with young adults and the broader community to inspire change. Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the deeper ethical implications of dairy consumption, the intersection of mindfulness and veganism, and how one person’s journey can inspire change. Priya’s story will resonate with those on the path to plant-based living or anyone interested in the power of film as a tool for advocacy. Mentioned in This Episode: Do No Harm (Priya Acharya’s documentary) The ethical impact of dairy consumption in India and the U.S. Crowdfunding efforts for the documentary's post-production How to support Priya's work and the vegan movement Support Priya's Project: Visit the Do No Harm documentary page to watch the trailer and make a donation to support the completion of this powerful film. https://www.donoharmfilm.com/   Find us and listen to more of the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ Podcast episodes at: https://veganvisibilityproductions.com/podcast     Hashtags:  #PriyaAcharya #DoNoHarm #Vegan #VeganDocumentary #DoNoHarmFilm #PlantBasedLiving #MindfulnessAndVeganism #EthicalEating #CompassionateLiving #VeganAdvocacy #DairyFreeRevolution #VeganpreneurRevolution #VeganpreneurRevolutionPodcast #VeganVisibilityProductions #VLynnHawkins  

One powerful way to spread the vegan message is through writing—whether it's books, blogs, or social media posts. Writing allows individuals to share their personal journeys, educate others on the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle, and inspire change. In the latest episode of the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION Podcast, hosts Kathleen Gage and VLynn Hawkins dig into the personal and professional journey of Madeleine Eno. With a background rich in creativity and spirituality, Madeleine shares how her vegan lifestyle has influenced her work and creativity, especially in the realm of writing. Discovering Veganism Madeleine Eno’s journey into veganism began approximately a decade ago. Triggered by a message received during meditation, Madeleine felt an unexpected nudge to give up meat. This decision led her to an unforgettable vegan potluck in Los Angeles, hosted by a plant-based chef and consultant at Whole Foods. This experience, filled with vibrant, colorful dishes, opened her eyes to the abundance and creativity possible within a vegan lifestyle. The Spiritual and Creative Connection For Madeleine, adopting a vegan diet was not just about the food; it was about enhancing her creativity and spiritual practice. She believes that the clarity and presence gained from a plant-based diet have been instrumental in her work, allowing her to connect more deeply with her clients. By removing distractions such as alcohol and processed foods, she has found a greater ability to be present and focused. COVID-19 and the Shift in Perspective The pandemic brought significant changes for many, and Madeleine was no exception. Living in a cabin in the woods, she found solace and creativity in her surroundings. The lockdown period heightened her awareness of food stewardship, leading to innovative and resourceful cooking with the ingredients she had on hand. This period also underscored the importance of being a good steward of resources, something that resonated deeply with her vegan values. Integrating Veganism into Professional Life Madeleine’s vegan lifestyle subtly influences her professional life. While she doesn’t aggressively promote her dietary choices, the principles of veganism—compassion, health, and mindfulness—naturally permeate her work. Her clients often discover her vegan lifestyle as they work together, leading to enriching conversations and shared values. https://veganvisibilityproductions.com/podcast/024-madeleine-eno

Can eating a plant-based diet revolutionize your health? If you ask Susan Smith Jones, the answer is a resounding yes. In the latest episode of the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ Podcast hosts VLynn Hawkins and Kathleen Gate engage in a compelling conversation with Susan, a renowned author, coach, and advocate. The episode explores Susan’s journey toward optimal health, her staunch support for plant-based nutrition, and her practical tips for achieving wellness. The Journey to Health: From Adversity to Advocacy Susan’s journey to health began with a personal crisis in her teenage years. Following a family tragedy, she faced numerous health challenges, including weight gain and various ailments. A turning point came when her grandmother, a passionate advocate of natural living, introduced Susan to a lifestyle centered around whole foods and natural remedies. This pivotal experience ignited Susan’s passion for plant-based eating and natural healing, shaping her future career and advocacy.  Plant-Based Eating: The Key to Vitality Throughout the podcast, Susan underscores the vital role of a plant-based diet in maintaining health and vitality. She explains how a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole foods can prevent and even reverse many common health issues. Susan’s books, Uplifted and A Hug in a Mug, provide in-depth guidance on plant-based nutrition, including practical recipes and tips for incorporating superfoods into daily routines. The Power of Positivity: Integrating Mind, Body, and Spirit Susan emphasizes the importance of a positive mindset in achieving holistic health. She advocates for nurturing the body, mind, and spirit through good sleep, regular physical activity, and a positive outlook. Susan believes that this comprehensive approach enhances overall wellness and builds resilience.  Enhancing Your Daily Routine: Practical Tips and Advice Susan provides practical tips for incorporating plant-based habits into everyday life. She suggests starting with manageable changes, such as adding more fruits and vegetables to meals or swapping processed snacks for whole foods. Susan also recommends keeping a food journal to track dietary changes and their effects on health, offering a tangible way to monitor progress and stay motivated. Mindful Eating: Building a Healthier Relationship with Food A significant aspect of Susan’s advice is the practice of mindful eating. She explains how paying attention to the quality of food, savoring each bite, and listening to the body’s hunger cues can lead to a more balanced and satisfying eating experience. Mindful eating enhances digestion and fosters a deeper appreciation for the nutritional value of plant-based foods.  

  When compassion meets healthy eating, one is left to wonder where the road leads. In this week’s episode of the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION Podcast, Dr. Angela Crawford shares her journey from compassion to vegan advocacy, offering profound insights into aligning values with lifestyle choices and the broader implications of veganism.   The Journey to Veganism: A Story of Compassion and Change   Dr. Angela Crawford's transition to veganism stemmed from a place of deep compassion. Raised on a traditional American diet, she remained unaware of the food industry's hidden cruelties until a PBS feature exposed the harsh realities of meat processing plants. This pivotal moment ignited her empathy, leading her to adopt a vegetarian lifestyle before fully committing to veganism. Her personal journey underscores how compassion for animals and workers can drive significant life changes and expand our understanding of our food choices.   Aligning Values with Lifestyle: The Psychological Impact of Veganism   In her book, The Vegan Transformation: A Mind, Body, Spirit Journey to Healing Yourself and the World, Dr. Crawford explores the psychological benefits of veganism. She identifies seven core principles—values, vision, authentic fulfillment, love, unity, empathy, and self-empowerment—that emerged from her research. Crawford's findings highlight how living in alignment with one’s values enhances personal well-being and fosters a deeper connection with the world.   Overcoming Cultural Conditioning: Bridging the Vegan Gap   Promoting veganism often involves overcoming entrenched cultural conditioning. Dr. Crawford explains that societal norms and food addictions create blind spots, making it challenging for many to consider a plant-based lifestyle. Psychological barriers and misconceptions, such as concerns about dietary restrictions and social acceptance, frequently deter people from transitioning. Addressing these obstacles is crucial for effective advocacy and support.  

In today's digital age, technology has revolutionized activism and the spread of ideas, amplifying voices like Claire Howe's, founder of the Raven Corps, through platforms such as the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ podcast.   From Subway to Social Justice: Claire Howe's Journey to Veganism   Claire Howe's journey into veganism began unexpectedly during a lunch break at Subway, where she confronted the origins of her meal and its ethical implications. This pivotal moment ignited her passion for animal rights and social justice, propelling her from vegetarianism to veganism within three months. Claire's personal transformation not only influenced her dietary choices but also sparked a deeper commitment to advocating for the voiceless.   Advocacy Through Education: The Birth of the Raven Corps   Determined to make a tangible difference, Claire pursued a legal education to advocate for farmed animals. Her journey led her to internships at Mercy for Animals and the Humane Society of the United States, where she realized the crucial role of education in driving systemic change. Recognizing the need for inclusive curriculums, Claire pivoted towards empowering youth through the Raven Corps.   Originally founded as Youth for the Voiceless, the Raven Corps evolved into a collective liberation organization, addressing not only animal rights but also environmental sustainability and social justice issues. Claire's grassroots work with local high school animal rights clubs in Portland laid the foundation for this transformative movement. Through workshops, campaigns, and community engagement, the Raven Corps empowers young activists to advocate for a compassionate and sustainable future.   www.VeganVisibilityProductions.com/podcast/021-Claire-Howe

The journey to veganism often begins with a deep-seated love for animals and the realization that our daily choices can impact their lives profoundly. During Episode 020 of the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ podcast, hosts @kathleengage and @vlynnhawkins talk with Bobby Sud, a filmmaker and photographer, who found his purpose in advocating for animals through the lens of love and empathy.   Early Life and Inspirations   Bobby's compassion for animals was evident from a young age. Growing up, he always had a strong connection to animals, a trait common among empathetic individuals. However, his journey into veganism and animal advocacy didn't begin until much later. Initially, Bobby pursued a degree in filmmaking, specializing in environmental filmmaking, yet he had not yet adopted a vegan lifestyle.   Health Transformation   It wasn't until Bobby's health spiraled out of control that he embraced a plant-based diet. Suffering from severe health issues, including obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension, Bobby decided to make a drastic change. With his twin brother’s encouragement, within eight months of adopting a plant-based lifestyle, he lost over 100 pounds and reversed his chronic conditions. This transformation was pivotal, not only for his health but also for his burgeoning advocacy.   The Turning Point   The significant turning point in Bobby's journey occurred when he attended the SoCal VegFest in Orange County. Introduced to the concept of animal vigils by Jon Pierre (JP), Bobby attended his first pig vigil. This experience was a revelation. Standing inches away from a truck filled with 200 six-month-old piglets destined for slaughter, Bobby had a profound epiphany. He realized that, just like humans, these animals had only one life, and their suffering and individuality were undeniable.   Advocacy Through Filmmaking and Photography   Inspired by this experience, Bobby's path took a definitive turn towards animal advocacy. He began documenting animal vigils, capturing the stark reality of animal suffering through his lens. His talent as a filmmaker and photographer quickly gained recognition, leading to collaborations with notable figures like Shaun Monson and involvement in significant projects like "Generation Vegan."   LA Animal Save   Bobby's dedication didn't stop at documenting animal suffering. He became an active organizer for the Animal Save Movement, specifically LA Animal Save. Through his powerful photography, Bobby highlights the individuality of animals, transforming abstract numbers into poignant portraits. His work emphasizes that each animal is a sentient being, capable of suffering and deserving of compassion.   Emotional Resilience and Self-Care   Dealing with the emotional toll of witnessing and documenting such suffering is challenging. Bobby's approach is rooted in love rather than hate. He focuses on his love for animals and his desire to help them, finding solace in the positive impact of his work. This love-based activism helps him manage the emotional weight and stay committed to his cause. www.VeganVisibilityProductions.com/podcast/020-Bobby-Sud

It has been said, “Compassion is the language of the heart.” This week’s featured guest on the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ podcast not only believes this to be true, she lives it.  Elana Theis shares her personal transformation and  journey towards veganism, and her work as a writer and energy practitioner sharing how she has integrated all of this into a life of compassion. The conversation was rich with insights about health, spirituality, and the deep connections between self-awareness and dietary choices.   Discovering the Path to Health and Veganism   Elana shared her profound transformation from a point in her life where, despite outward success, she felt deeply unfulfilled. She described how her initial step towards better health was influenced by an Ayurvedic dietician who recommended eliminating dairy and red meat. This dietary change led to significant improvements in her health, marking the beginning of her journey toward veganism.   A Life-Changing Journey to Hawaii   A pivotal moment for Elana occurred during a solo trip to Hawaii. Immersed in the island's diverse lifestyle, Elana experienced a deep connection with nature and herself. This trip catalyzed her shift away from societal expectations and towards a more authentic, self-guided life. By the end of her stay, she had naturally gravitated towards a vegan diet, a change solidified upon her return to Germany.   Embracing a New Lifestyle   Elana's story illustrates how personal growth and dietary choices are interconnected. As she became more attuned to her true self, she found it increasingly difficult to consume animal products. Her decision to fully commit to veganism came naturally and was a significant part of her overall transformation, which also saw her losing 60 pounds without intentionally trying to do so. www.VeganVisibilityProductions.com/podcast/019-Elena-Theis   

Get ready for an enlightening journey with JJ Judd on the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ Podcast! Adopting a vegan lifestyle not only led to shedding 50 lbs but also deepened her commitment to animal compassion. Her transformational experience inspired the creation of Veganowledge, a platform guiding others toward embracing a plant-based lifestyle.    JJ shares personal insights on how veganism transformed her health, ignited her passion for ethical living, and motivated her to empower others in their vegan journey.   Discover how overcoming health challenges and embracing compassion for animals shaped her path from a standard American diet to becoming a dedicated vegan entrepreneur. Join her as she discusses the profound impact of plant-based living and the ethical considerations that drive her mission. Whether you're new to veganism or a seasoned advocate, her story will inspire and educate, offering practical insights and motivation to make positive changes.   Tune in to the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ Podcast to explore her journey and learn more about the transformative power of veganism!   Listen here and learn so much more about JJ www.veganvisibilityproductions.com/podcast/018-JJ-Judd    #VeganJourney #VeganEntrepreneur #veganpreneurrevolutionpodcast  

Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, is a significant day in American history that marks the end of slavery in the United States. This day commemorates the resilience, culture, and achievements of African American people. In a recent discussion, Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ podcast co-hosts V. Lynn Hawkins and Kathleen Gage explored the intersection of Juneteenth, veganism, and broader themes of liberation and justice. The Historical Significance of Juneteenth Juneteenth celebrates the announcement of the abolition of slavery in Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. This day signifies a pivotal point in the struggle for freedom and equality for African Americans, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and addressing historical injustices. Drawing Parallels: Human and Animal Liberation Hawkins and Gage draw parallels between the historical enslavement of African Americans and the modern-day exploitation of animals. They delve into the ethical, health, and economic considerations surrounding animal rights, emphasizing that the fight against all forms of slavery, whether human or animal, is interconnected. www.veganvisibilityproductions.com/podcast/017-Kathleen-VLynn   

Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, claiming millions of lives annually? But there's hope! Tune in to the latest episode of the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ Podcast featuring Paul Chatlin, founder of Plant Based Nutrition Support Group (PBNSG)  and co-founder of SAGE Circle Alliance (SCA) as well as being a leading advocate for plant-based living.   Paul's journey from battling heart disease to championing the transformative power of whole food, plant-based nutrition is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, he shares his personal story and discusses how simple dietary changes can reverse chronic conditions and promote longevity.   Discover the secrets behind the plant-based movement and learn how PBNSG and SCA  are empowering individuals to take control of their health. Listen now to this insightful conversation hosted by @kathleengage and @vlynnhawkins.   Listen here: www.veganvisibilityproductions.com/podcast/016-Paul-Chatlin    Let's spread the message of health and wellness together! #VeganpreneurREVOLUTION #HeartHealth #PlantBasedLiving #PodcastInterview