Plant Based Curious
Are you curious about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle but don’t know where to begin?
The Plant-Based Curious Podcast is your friendly, essential guide. Join host Diane Randall, a certified holistic coach with over 23 years of plant-based and vegan living, as she makes thriving with plants simple, sustainable, and joyful.
In our bi-weekly episodes, we explore:
• Practical Nutrition & Transition Tips: How to start and stick with it.
• Holistic Wellness: Mind, body, and lifestyle shifts.
• The Science of Change: Empowering strategies for lasting habits.
• Inspiring Interviews: Hear from nutritionists, athletes, and everyday success stories.
Whether you're a seasoned vegan, vegetarian, or a curious omnivore just looking to add more plants to your plate, this is your judgment-free zone for transformation—one bite at a time.
Connect & Share: We'd love to hear from you! Visit us at https://www.plant-basedcurious.com.
Plant Based Curious
Veganism Isn’t About Giving Up—It’s About Gaining Everything: A Joyful Journey with Matthew Halteman
In this episode of Plant Based Curious, host Diane Randall sits down with Matthew Halteman, philosophy professor, Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics fellow, and author of Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan. Together, they flip the script on veganism, exploring how it’s not about restriction—but about abundance, joy, and alignment with our deepest values.
Key Takeaways:
- Matthew reframes veganism as a celebration of what we’re for—creaturely flourishing, emotional coherence, and moral alignment.
- Quote: “Vegans aren’t just avoiding harm—we’re harmonizing with the world.”
- Why self-compassion and small steps matter more than perfection.
- How to navigate social pressures (like Thanksgiving!) without guilt.
- Start with curiosity, not obligation. Try a “Vegan Weeknight” to experiment joyfully.
- Matthew’s tip: “Feed your curiosity with what feels natural—whether it’s plant-based recipes or documentaries about animal intelligence.”
- Why judgment backfires—and how leading with empathy invites others to join the journey.
Standout Quotes:
“Going vegan aggregates joy in ways I’ve never seen—better health, richer relationships, and a planet that thrives.” —Matthew Halteman
“Progress over perfection. Even 1% shifts create 100% transformation.” —Diane Randall
Resources Mentioned:
📖 Matthew’s Book: Hungry Beautiful Animals
🎧 Free Excerpt: “Vegan Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Gratitude & Love”
🌱 Diane’s Book: A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach
Listener Action Steps:
- Try One Small Win: Swap one meal this week for a plant-based dish.
- Share the Episode: Tag someone who’s curious about veganism!
- Leave a Review: Help others discover Plant Based Curious.
Why You’ll Love This Episode:
If you’ve ever felt veganism was about sacrifice, this conversation will change your mind. Matthew’s blend of philosophy, humor, and practicality makes abundance feel not just possible—but irresistible. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, and the plant-based curious!
"Thanks for listening to The Plant-Based Curious Podcast. If this episode helped you, please share it with one friend who might need it. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts so you never miss a step on your journey. For questions or to connect, visit me at plant-basedcurious.com."
