Plant Based Curious
Are you curious about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle but don’t know where to begin?
Welcome to The Plant-Based Curious Podcast—your go-to guide for embracing a healthier, more sustainable, and fulfilling way of living. Hosted by Diane Randall, a certified holistic coach, life coach, and whole living consultant with over 22 years of experience in plant-based and vegan living, this podcast is your friendly companion on the journey to thriving with plants.
Each bi-weekly episode dives into the world of plant-based nutrition, going vegan, holistic living, and the science of behavior change. Diane shares her personal stories, practical tips, and expert insights to help you navigate the transition with confidence and joy. Plus, you’ll hear from inspiring guests—practitioners, nutritionists, holistic health experts, athletes and everyday people—who share their experiences, bust myths, and offer actionable advice to make plant-based living simple and sustainable.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a vegetarian, or just a curious omnivore dipping your toes into the world of plants, this podcast is a judgment-free zone for learning, growing, and transforming your life—one bite at a time.
Got questions, feedback, or a story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us using the link in the episode description.
Tune in, get inspired, and let’s explore the power of plant-based living together. Your journey starts here!
Plant Based Curious
Honoring Heritage, Plant-Based Style: Jan Brandenburg’s Appalachian Kitchen Revolution
Join host Diane Randall for a soulful conversation with Jan Brandenburg, Appalachian native, longtime vegan, and author of The Modern Mountain Cookbook: A Plant-Based Celebration of Appalachia. Jan shares how she’s won over her meat-loving family with veganized comfort food, the emotional ties between tradition and ethics, and her top tips for making plant-based living accessible—even in the heart of biscuit-and-gravy country.
Key Takeaways:
Start Where You Are
Jan’s advice for beginners: “Think of your favorite foods—master 3 plant-based versions, and build from there.” (Example: Her crowd-pleasing vegan mac and cheese!)
Appalachian Vegan Magic
How to reinvent smoky, hearty flavors without meat: liquid smoke, smoked salts, and tamari bring umami depth to classics like cornbread and broccoli casserole.
Holidays Without Compromise
Jan’s secret to stress-free vegan feasts: “Cook the dishes you love, but plant-based. No one misses the meat when the flavors are right.”
Aquafaba Breakthrough
The game-changing ingredient that let Jan recreate her grandmother’s meringue pies (hint: it’s hiding in your chickpea can!).
Handling Skeptics with Grace
Responding to “Why be so extreme?”: “It’s not about judgment—it’s my choice to live in alignment with my values.”
Featured Recipes & Tips:
- Pantry MVP: Liquid smoke for bacon-esque flavor in greens, beans, and cornbread.
- Comfort Food Hack: Vegan broccoli casserole (no condensed soups!).
- Seasonal Star: Ramps (wild Appalachian leeks) in spring dishes.
Connect with Jan:
- Cookbook: The Modern Mountain Cookbook
- Instagram: @appalachianvegan
Listener Call-to-Action:
- Swap one family recipe with a plant-based twist voice (message us @PlantBasedCurious!).
- Grab Jan’s book for vegan biscuits, gravy, and pies that honor Appalachian roots.
Quotable Moment:
“Food isn’t just fuel—it’s connection, history, and love. You don’t have to abandon tradition to embrace compassion.” —Jan Brandenburg
Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level?
This episode got you curious? Wait until you see what else we’ve got to help you thrive!
Want Support? Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for motivation, recipes, and a community that’s rooting for you.
Craving Knowledge? Dive into our FREE eBook—packed with meal plans, pantry staples, and science-backed tips to make plant-based living deliciously simple.
Hungry for More? Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library to keep learning and growing.
Click here to grab your copy of my book, "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach" and discover all the tools you need to succeed!
Your healthiest, happiest life starts with just one click—let’s make it happen together!
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