***My New Jersey accent has rendered me unable to pronounce Pura ViTa multiple times in a short time frame so at the end you'll hear me saying what sounds like Pura ViDa, please know that Tara's restaurant is called Pura Vita and all links in the show notes are correct. *** :-)
Today, I am joined by Chef Tara Punzone and writer Gene Stone.
Tara is the founder of the award-winning Pura Vita restaurants in Los Angeles. Pura Vita is the first 100% Plant-Based Italian Restaurant and Wine Bar in the USA. A trailblazer in vegan Italian cuisine, Tara has been featured in Bon Appétit, Eater, and the Los Angeles Times. Chef Tara grew up in an Italian American home in New York, and has thrived on a vegan diet for over 35 years. Her passion for healthy southern Italian food has been evolving since her childhood when she made the decision to adopt a vegan lifestyle. It was then Tara began converting all her family’s traditional dishes to vegan versions of the same, without compromise. Vegana Italiana is her first book.
Gene Stone – A graduate of Stanford and Harvard, Gene is a former Peace Corps volunteer and newspaper editor for such companies as the Los Angeles, Times, Esquire, and Simon & Schuster. He has written more than a dozen books under his own name on a wide variety of subjects and has also ghostwritten or co-written another thirty-five books for a very diverse lot of people, many of which have been national bestsellers. However, for the past fifteen years he has concentrated mainly on writing or ghostwriting books about plant-based diets and their relationship to animal protection, health, and the environment. Among these books are such titles as Forks Over Knives, 72 Reasons to Be Vegan, How Not to Die, Living the Farm Sanctuary Life, Eat for the Planet, The Engine 2 Diet, and Animalkind.
To connect with Tara:
Website (you can buy Vegana Italiana here): https://puravitalosangeles.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/puravita_la/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cheftarapunzone/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PuraVitaLosAngeles/
To connect with Gene:
Visit his website www.genestone.com
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Prit Patel. Prit is a natural storyteller with a deep passion for real human connection.He believes that stories have the power to uplift, inspire, and shape the world we live in. Over the past 18 years, his journey has taken some bold and unexpected turns — from working as a weapons engineer by day and performing stand-up comedy by night, to becoming an agile coach, life coach, and ultimately a destination wedding celebrant and MC. As Prit puts it, he made the leap "from the war industry to the love industry."
His life has been full of transformative chapters: two major career changes, seven moves across the UK, Germany, and Spain in just 13 years, and embracing a vegan lifestyle three years ago.
Prits latest venture? HumanKind Communities — where he helps build thriving, purpose-driven networks of small businesses with big dreams, using the guiding forces of the Law of Attraction and Ikigai.
Mentioned in the episode:
Gamechangers: https://gamechangersmovie.com/
Butenland: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/butenland
To connect with Prit:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celebrantprit/
And https://www.instagram.com/humankindcommunities
YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@pritumpatel
And https://www.youtube.com/@HumanKindCommunities
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by author Joe Gagnon. 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. Whether he’s building a company, mentoring a founder, or speaking on stage, his goal remains the same: to inspire others to live intentionally by design, not by chance.
We talk a lot about finding our own way in life and how we do that with meaning, intention, and love.
To connect with Joe:
www.linkedin.com/in/joegagnon/
www.thehighperformancelife.net/
www.instagram.com/thehighperformancelife
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Philosopher and author of Hungry Beautiful Animals, Matthew Halteman. Matt is is professor of philosophy at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and a fellow at the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics in the UK. He is the author of Compassionate Eating as Care of Creation and co-editor of Philosophy Comes to Dinner: Arguments about the Ethics of Eating.
His book Hungry Beautiful Animals, of which we talk a lot about, is a heartfelt, humane, and humorous exploration of how going vegan can bring abundance into our lives.
This is such a rich conversation of veganism, morality, abundance, leading with love, and the parallels we observe in the state of our world right now, Matt and I dig in deep with a lot of care, love, and laughs.
To connect with Matt:
Book website is here: www.hungrybeautifulanimals.com
Personal website is here: www.matthewchalteman.weebly.com
Instagram is @hungrybeautifulanimals: https://www.instagram.com/hungrybeautifulanimals/
LinkedIn is https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-halteman-49b2b56b/
Mentioned in this episode:
Ethos Farm to Health - https://www.ethosfarmtohealth.org/
Nathan Nobis Ph.D - https://www.nathannobis.com/
Clare Mann - https://vystopia.com/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Ellen Kanner, the author of the award-winning book Feeding the Hungry Ghost: Life, Faith and What to Eat for Dinner. And her newest book, Miami Vegan. She writes about the intersection of food, culture, community, wellness, and sustainability for outlets including HuffPo, VegNews, and Edible South Florida, which calls her “the lovable and entertaining voice of plant-based.” She’s a vegan advocate and culinary instructor, recipe developer for major brands, and the creator of the Substack newsletter Broccoli Rising. A fifth generation Miami native, she lives with her husband in — where else? — Miami.
To connect with Ellen:
Visit her website: https://soulfulvegan.com/
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soulfulvegan
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Terri Chrisman. Terri is a board-certified nutritionist with the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, renowned speaker, podcaster, and author of Fabulous Health: A Simple Plan To Get Well And Stay Well (Fabulous Health, June 2025). She is the founder of the Fabulous Health Show podcast and https://fabuloushealth.net/
To connect with Terri:
Visit her website: https://fabuloushealth.net/
Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fabuloushealthtlc/
Join her Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wfpblifestyleforbeginners
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Sue Joyce. Sue is the founder of Little Green Pigeon C.I.C., a national UK organization with two core aims: to raise funds to support rehabilitators caring for pigeons, and to campaign for a UK-wide ban on pigeon racing. After running a pigeon sanctuary for over 15 years, Sue launched Little Green Pigeon to take her advocacy to a national level.
In 2025, she founded the National Pigeon Advocacy Association (NPAA), and together, the two organizations are set to host the world’s first Pigeon Advocacy Conference in Staffordshire, England, in September 2025.
Sue speaks at festivals and events across the UK, raising awareness about pigeon welfare and the exploitation of birds in sport and industry. She is also the co-host of the Bloody Vegans Podcast, alongside her co-host and editor Jim Moore.
In June 2025, Sue co-founded the Animal Rights Choir with her best friend Vegan Queen V—an in-person and online community choir created to empower people to find and raise their voices for animals. The choir now performs at festivals and animal rights events across the UK.
In addition to her advocacy work, Sue also works part-time for Vegan Business Mastermind, an online mentorship program supporting vegan entrepreneurs.
I am so glad for Sue and this episode, I think pigeons are pretty misunderstood and this episode gives them the respect they deserve, You’ll also hear Sue’s vegan journey, all about the other projects she’s working on and hummus.
To connect with Sue:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/littlegreenpigeon/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Littlegreenpigeon/?locale=en_GB
www.nationalpigeonadvocacyassociation.co.uk
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by nutritionist and podcaster/speaker Callum Weir. Callum is a certified nutritionist (CMA) with a passion for plant-based living that goes far beyond what's on the plate. Known for his energetic, grounded, and deeply human approach to health, Callum works at the intersection of nutrition, performance, sustainability, and purpose, helping people unlock their full potential through plants.
The Plant-Fuelled Podcast explores the power of plant-based living through the lens of nutrition, performance, wellbeing, and sustainability.
At his core, he’s here to educate, inspire, and build a healthier, more compassionate world, one plate and one person at a time.
To connect with Callum:
Website: https://www.plantfuelled.co.uk/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/plantfuellednutrition/
Substack: https://substack.com/@callumweir
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@plant-fuelled
Mentioned:
I am not a nugget t-shirt - yes, you can still by them! https://shop.peta.org/peta2-i-m-not-a-nugget-t-shirt.html
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Animal Communicator, Clare Metcalf. Clare was formally "trained" in Animal Communication (or rather, as she says, reminded of her innate abilities) by world renowned Animal Communicator and author Amelia Kinkade. 20+ years later , Clare has become the FIRST and so far, ONLY UK OFFICIAL LANGUAGE OF MIRACLES CERTIFIED INTERSPECIES TRANSLATOR (i.e. Animal Communicator)! And at the time one of only 4 globally. Over the years Clare has developed her own style of communicating with all life forms at a deep, soul level having trained with many teachers and travelled to spend time with shamanic workers, indigenous teachers and storytellers; though, she points out, the wisest teachers have always been the animals themselves. At the end of 2024 Clare published her first book: Conversations with Bentley, the Cosmic, Conservationist Cat, a 12 year journey of communications with a black cat in Heaven, his messages to his Mum about everlasting life and love, advice on living your truest life and his concern for conservation and the planet. Clare’s dream is to enlighten all animal lovers with regard to Animal Communication (or Interspecies Telepathic Communication) and to provide practical help, advice and guidance to enable all species to live together in harmony. If you want to re-learn how to do it for yourself, please check out on one of Clare’s workshops.
To connect with Clare:
www.freespiritanimalcare.co.uk
(There’s a free ebook on the home page.)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claremetcalfanimalcommunicator
https://www.facebook.com/groups/interspecieswisdom free group for animal lovers. No upsetting imagery allowed.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2915065081988904 (Free group for my book, Conversations with Bentley)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/claremetcalfanimalcommunicator/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Jonathan Glass, ND., M.Ac. Jonathan is the founder and author of the Total Life Cleanse. He is a Naturopathic Doctor, Master Acupuncturist, Ayurvedic Practitioner, energy healer, herbalist and Natural Health Educator. Jonathan served on the faculty of the New England School of Acupuncture and the Dharma Institute of Yoga and Ayurveda. He has facilitated thousands through his JivAtma Energy Healing and Total Life Cleanse programs.
Jonathan has been in private practice since 1987 when he co-founded the Healing Essence Center with Katherine Glass, in Concord, Massachusetts.
To connect with Jonathan:
To Schedule an Appt click here
Free Ebook: https://healingessencecenter.com/free-gift-ebook
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathanglassnd/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Naijha Wright-Brown. Naijha is a 2021 Baltimore Business Journal Enterprising Women of Excellence Honoree. A native New Yorker, raised in the South Bronx, Naijha is a people person and loves to make connections. She was introduced to gardening, farming, environmentalism, sustainability, and the basics of eating healthy while spending summers in Massachusetts as a teenager. Naijha has an MBA in Business from the University of Phoenix and is a successful serial entrepreneur. The thought of owning a restaurant never crossed her mind until she relocated to Baltimore in 2005 and met her fellow Verizon Wireless co-worker, now husband, Gregory Brown.
Naijha is a partner and the Marketing Director for The Land of Kush, VeganSoul Bistro, and co-creator of Vegan Soulfest and Maryland Vegan Restaurant Week. She is the Executive Director of the Black Veg Society, a non-profit organization whose mission is mission is to educate predominantly Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) communities, on the benefits of holistic living, the plant-based diet, and veganism. Naijha, also, has a digital talk show, Naijha Speaks, that helps people on a mission to find their vegan soul!
To connect with Naijha:
https://www.mdveganeats.com/ for Maryland Restaurant month
https://www.vegansoulfest.com/
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/thelandofkush/
https://www.instagram.com/blackvegsociety/
https://www.instagram.com/vegansoulfest/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Jenn “JJ” Judd. JJ is a mindset coach, content creator, and author with a degree in psychology. Known for her passion for plant-based living and helping people transform their health and mindset, JJ developed the G.L.A.D. framework (Goals, Learning, Action, Discipline) to inspire real, lasting change. She draws on both her personal journey and professional experience to guide people toward achieving their goals with clarity, confidence, joy, and ease.
In 2019, at 42 years old, JJ lost 55 pounds, eliminated chronic back pain and seasonal allergies, and discovered the power of whole, raw vegan foods. What started as a personal weight loss journey turned into a mission to help others reclaim their well-being through sustainable habits, mindset shifts, and a return to nature’s intended diet.
She also discovered the ethical principles of veganism and became an advocate using her platform to speak up for animals and educate others on the deeper meaning behind the lifestyle—when they’re ready to hear it.
As the founder of Veganowledge and Amazing Plantz4merz, JJ educates and empowers people to simplify their approach to nutrition, break free from diet confusion, and create lasting health transformations. She shares her knowledge through books, coaching, and engaging online content, making plant-based living accessible and inspiring.
Her latest book introduces readers to The G.L.A.D. Blueprint, a 4-step system designed to help people overcome obstacles, take control of their health, and achieve long-term success. The book includes real-life examples, an interactive quiz, and actionable steps that guide readers toward their best selves—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Her mission is to meet people where they are and gently invite them to go deeper—to recognize that all animals deserve to live, not just the ones we share our homes with. There is no difference between cats and dogs, cows and pigs, chickens and turkeys, when it comes to their desire to live and feel safe.
She believes that true health is simple, and by working with the body instead of against it, we can unlock our fullest potential.
To connect with JJ:
YouTube: https://youtube.com/@veganowledgejj?si=TdCKcass3mwUCR1u
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veganowledgejj
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@veganowledgejj?_t=ZT-8ulpZP715ha&_r=1
Facebook Groups: Veganowledge:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18uynzwxpM/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Raw Veganowledge:
https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AAX2bpar1/?mibextid=wwXIfr
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
111 is an angel number and I think you’ll agree that today’s guests were the perfect two to join me for this episode.
Today, I am joined by Sarah & Elyza, the duo behind The Harmony Mountain House: a heart-centered retreat space born from a collision of dreams, intuition, and bold action. Though they’d only known each other a few months before joining forces, they’ve since built not only a thriving healing business but a powerful sisterhood rooted in trust, transformation, and co-creation. Elyza, the spark: a fiery Aries with deep Scorpio waters, is a catalyst for change, solo mama, and space-holder who brings fierce devotion to authenticity and presence. Sarah, the visionary: a dreamy Pisces with Virgo grounding, is a quiet manifestor whose gift for nourishing others shines through everything from her cooking to her ability to make magic out of any space. Together, they live what they teach: that healing is nonlinear, intuition is real, and life is meant to be created, not followed.
Connect:
The Harmony Mountain House
Elyza
Services: 1-1 guidance sessions (cacao, prenatal & pregnancy, postpartum, etc) // mother blessings & rituals // womb weaving rituals
Sarah
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Dr. Marina De Leon. Dr. De León does two things well; wildlife conservation and holistic nutrition. Her work bridges disease ecology, molecular biology, and microbiome research to address environmental and ecological challenges. With a Ph.D. in Microbiology from UC Davis, Marina specializes in herpetology focusing on disease ecology, toxin-producing microbes, and conservation strategies for endangered species. In addition to her work in conservation biology, Marina runs a private nutrition consulting practice focused on gut microbiome health. Drawing from her deep expertise in microbiology, she helps clients understand and optimize their gut health through personalized, evidence-based nutrition plans. Marina’s holistic, plant-based approach emphasizes the necessity of a diverse and resilient microbiome in both environmental and human health, grounded in her understanding that that well-being begins at the microbial level.
In this episode we talk a lot about community, who needs it and for what, the power of our microbiome and how to feed it, Marina’s focus on frogs from a conservation perspective, and of course, hummus.
To connect with Marina:
https://microbialfuturenutrition.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-de-leon-microbial-future
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by author Ray Star. You might remember her from episode 51, Make the connection. If you’d like to hear Ray’s vegan journey, how hummus shows up in her life check out that episode.
Ray is an award-winning author with a passion for nature, animals, and the Earth. Ray is most known for the internationally bestselling fantasy fiction trilogy Earthlings, a coming-of-age dystopian read for lovers of climate fiction and magical realism, the final book of the trilogy “Land of Hope & Glory’ was released earlier this year.
Ray's writing style has been praised as 'a millennial Enid Blyton', and her debut trilogy reviewed as 'genre-defying', 'the Narnia of our time', and 'a masterpiece' across UK media.
When Ray isn't writing, she is happiest spending time with her family and friends, exploring nature with her children and rescue dogs or teaching Writing For Nature workshops. A firm believer of magick, Ray can often be found stargazing under the moon with a tarot deck in one hand and a strong cuppa in the other. It is Ray's dream to one day open The Peridot Animal Sanctuary and Wildlife Reserve in England and that dream inspired Ray to close her business of fifteen years to pursue a writing career.
Since this is Ray’s second time on the pod we jump right into her latest book, what’s she’s up to now, Ray offers tips on how to write your own book, and much more!
To connect with Ray:
Visit her website https://www.raystarbooks.com/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@raystarbooks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raystarbooks
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RayStarBooks/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by podcast host extraordinaire Michele Olender of Vegan at any Age and Vedge Your Best Podcast. Michele proves that it’s never too late to go vegan. A life coach and podcaster, who went vegan at age 56, Michele knows how to help you move in a vegan direction without blowing up your life.
On her Vedge Your Best podcast, she translates the tools of life coaching, philosophy and behavior change to help you start, RE-start, or re-ENERGIZE your vegan lifestyle.
With over 250 consecutive weekly episodes, Michele meets you wherever you are on your vegan journey. She is also committed to introducing new voices and amplifying the work of veteran vegans around the world.
Michele holds a Certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies at Cornell, a B.A. from Smith College, and an M.A. in the History of Art.
As a lifelong language learner and history nerd, Michele believes there has never been a better time to be an autodidact. She and her husband have seven grandchildren, live most of the year near the Atlantic Ocean and love to search out vegan options near historic sites in North America and Europe.
Michele has lots of inspiration for you in this episode!
To connect with Michele:
Visit her website: https://veganatanyage.com/
Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vedge_your_best/
Listen to Kimberly on Vedge Your Best: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/vedge-your-best-vegan-ideas-for-everyone-at-any-age/id1531858713?i=1000706475936
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Plant-Based Susy. PlantBased Susy is one of the founders of VeganSusy.com, a dynamic platform dedicated to empowering women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond to achieve sustainable weight loss and long-term wellness through a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle. With a mission to make plant-based eating enjoyable, accessible, and deeply transformative, Susy offers personalized meal plans, online courses, and one-on-one coaching under the mantra “More PlantsLess Pounds.” Her approach is holistic, focusing not only on diet but also on mindset, strength training, and mindfulness to create lasting health improvements.
With years of experience guiding women through their health journeys, Susy is passionate about tackling common dieting frustrations and fostering a supportive community centered on compassion, health, and personal empowerment. Her methodology, coined “SAFE”—Sustainable, Adaptable, Fulfilling, and Encouraging—offers a blueprint for women to reclaim their health with a gentle, results-driven approach that is as rewarding as it is effective.
Her blog post “Find Your Health and Wellness Mindset with Vegan Susy” captures her philosophy that true health begins in the mind, blending nourishing plant-based food with strength training and self-compassion. Through VeganSusy.com, she continues to inspire and guide her audience toward living vibrant, healthful lives, providing both practical tools and heartfelt encouragement along the way.
To connect with Susy:
Visit her website: https://www.vegansusy.com/
Find her on Facebook and Instagram:
https://www.facebook.com/PlantBasedSusy/
https://www.instagram.com/plantbasedsusy/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today I am joined by Angela Crawford, Ph.D. Angela is a psychologist, vegan educator, and author of The Vegan Transformation: A Journey to Heal Yourself and the World (Lantern, April 2025). She is passionate about empowering people toward plant-powered living for physical, mental, and emotional health; compassion for all sentient beings; and caring for our planet.
She speaks and teaches about thriving emotionally and socially as a vegan, the connection between food and mood, overcoming barriers to lifestyle change, and values alignment and compassion. Dr. Crawford previously worked as a psychotherapist for 25 years, empowering clients toward greater holistic well-being. She holds certifications as a Master Vegan Lifestyle Coach and Educator, licensed PCRM Food for Life instructor, and Transformational Coach.
She is passionate about the power of personal transformation to create a more fulfilling, healthy, and purposeful life - and a kinder, more sustainable world.
To connect with Angela:
https://angelacrawfordphd.com/book/
https://www.facebook.com/AngelaCrawfordPhD/
https://www.instagram.com/angelacrawfordphd/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelacrawfordphd/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Veena Birajadar owner of Pure Vegan Cafe. Pure Vegan Cafe is a 100% Plant Based restaurant in NC with locations in Raleigh and Durham. With a focus on using high-quality, healthy ingredients to make great-tasting, cold-pressed juices, smoothies, and 100% plant based food. Veena is an IT professional turned restauranteur.
To connect with Veena:
Visit her website www.purevegancafe.com
Follow her on insta and Facebook @Pure Vegan Cafe
https://www.instagram.com/purevegancafe/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/purevegancafe/
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw
Today, I am joined by Tara Stone. Tara is a speaker, holistic success coach, and passionate advocate for conscious living. Her journey into veganism began with a deep-rooted love for animals, leading her to years of hands-on experience in animal rescue. This commitment to compassion naturally evolved into a plant-based lifestyle, inspiring her to found Grounded for Life, a plant-based café dedicated to nourishing the body and soul with good food that tastes great and just so happens not to have animal products in it!
With a background in real estate, business coaching and leadership development, Tara helps high-achievers move beyond burnout and into sustainable success both personally and professionally. She empowers entrepreneurs and executives to align their work with their values, prioritizing well-being, impact, and purpose. Through her work, she has helped countless individuals shift from the toxic hustle mentality to a more intentional and fulfilling way of living.
Tara’s expertise spans across mindset coaching, workplace culture transformation, and accountability, making her a sought-after speaker and consultant. Whether she’s leading executive retreats, coaching high-performing teams, or helping individuals build habits that align with their holistic success, her mission remains the same: to end suffering and empower people to create a life by design, embrace struggle as a gift and fund the life they love.
To connect with Tara find her on all social media @The_Tara_Stone
Mentioned in this episode:
Shel Silverstein poem - Little Abigail and the Beautiful Pony - https://allpoetry.com/Little-Abigail-and-the-Beautiful-Pony
The China Study - https://nutritionstudies.org/the-china-study/
Grounded For Life Cafe, Clinton, NJ - https://groundedforlifecafe.com/
Newark Animal Save - https://www.instagram.com/newarkanimalsave/?hl=en
To connect with me:
Follow me on Facebook and Instagram @didyoubringthehummus
For more info on my Public Speaking 101 program: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/publicspeakingforactivists
Contact me here or send me an email at info@didyoubringthehummus.com
Sign up for meditation sessions here
Sign up for The Vegan Voyage, to sponsor the podcast, book meditations packages, or sign up for my Public Speaking program here
Join my Podcast Fan Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/didyoubringthehummus/
To be a guest on the podcast: https://www.didyoubringthehummus.com/beaguest
©2025 Kimberly Winters - Did You Bring the Hummus LLC
Theme Song ©2020 JP Winters @musicbyjpw