Vegetarian Zen

VZ 460: Talking Turkeys and Vegan Gifts! Nov 17, 2024

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss 5 places you can adopt a turkey plus 25 awesome vegan gifts everyone will love! You can check out links to everything we discuss in the show notes.

VZ 459: 22 Meatless Monday Dinner Ideas Your Family Will LOVE! Aug 11, 2024

If you’re not quite ready to go vegetarian or vegan, how about a Meatless Monday? These 22 family-friendly are a perfect way to ease into meatless meals.

You can check out the show note with links to all of the recipes here.

VZ 458: The Ultimate Guide to the Vegetarian Mediterranean Diet Jul 28, 2024

The Vegetarian Mediterranean Diet combines plant-based eating with Mediterranean flavors. Discover the health benefits, foods to eat, and delicious recipes! Check out the full show notes here.

VZ 457: The Best Clean Beauty Brands You Need to Know About Jul 14, 2024

If you're listening to this, I'd bet money that you're someone who pays attention to what goes on your body as much as you pay attention to what goes in it. Harmful chemicals you might be putting on your body worry you just as much as harmful additives in your food.

Because people are starting to understand the harm that harsh chemicals have on their bodies and the planet, they’re turning to clean beauty brands that prioritize natural ingredients and avoid harmful chemicals.

These brands offer a safer, healthier approach to beauty, making it easier to take care of your skin without compromising on quality.

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we'll explore some of the best clean beauty brands out there to help you find products that are good for you and the planet. You can check out the full show notes here.

VZ 456: International Plastic Bag Free Day: How You Can Make a Difference Jun 30, 2024

July 3rd is International Plastic Bag Free Day (yep…there really is a day for everything!). The goal of International Plastic Bag Free Day is to eliminate the use of single-use plastic bags by encouraging individuals, communities, and governments to rethink their reliance on plastic bags and adopt more eco-friendly alternatives.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share:

the history of plastic bag free day
some impacts that plastic bags have on animals, the environment, and humans
7 ways you can celebrate International Plastic Bag Free Day

You can check out the full show notes here.

VZ 455: Meet 8 of the Best Animal Dads In The Wild Jun 16, 2024

Discover the best animal dads in nature and their unique parenting skills in this detailed exploration of top animal fathers.

Check out the show notes for more about these amazing dads!

VZ 454: Happy Pride! 15 LGBTQIA2S+ Vegans, Vegetarians, and Allies Jun 02, 2024

In this episode, in honor of Pride Month, we'll highlight 15 LGBTQ+ celebrities and famous people who have chosen vegan or vegetarian lifestyles. These folks are using their fame to advocate for compassion, health, and the planet, showing that even small choices can lead to big impacts.

You can check out our full show notes here.

VZ 453: The Best Vegan Hot Dogs For Summer Grilling May 19, 2024

In this episode of the podcast, we’re talking about some of the best veggie hot dogs on the market today with a little help from our closed Facebook group the Peas and Carrots who voted on theirs.

Check out the full show notes here.

VZ 452: Nature's Nurturers: A Tribute To Awesome Animal Moms! May 05, 2024

Discover the remarkable world of animal moms and their nurturing ways. Explore the depths of maternal instincts across wildlife species.

Check out the full show notes here.

VZ 451: Fuel Your Life At Fruitive: A Chat With Gregg Rozeboom Apr 21, 2024

In this episode of Vegetarian Zen, we’re pleased to welcome Gregg Rozeboom, owner of Fruitive, a 100% organic, vegan, and sustainable restaurant located in Virginia Beach and in Washington DC.

We’re going to talk to Gregg about his inspiration for opening a 100% plant-based restaurant and about some of the yummy offerings on his menu.

You can check out our full show notes with links to everything we discuss here.

VZ 450: 10 Energizing High Protein Vegan Breakfast Recipes You'll Love Apr 07, 2024

In recent years, there’s been this huge protein push with a lot of companies trying to convince us that we’re protein deficient, especially if you’re plant-based or plant-based leaning.

While a lot of this is media hype, there is some truth to the importance of making sure you have enough protein in your diet. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re sharing some High Protein Breakfast Ideas to help you start your day with a protein-packed meal with zero animal products.

We’re going to discuss some of the benefits of making sure you get enough protein in your meals, share some great sources of vegan protein, and of course, we’re not going to leave you without sharing some recipe ideas from some of our favorite sites.

You can check out the show notes here.

VZ 449: 10 Ways You Can Celebrate National Garden Month Mar 24, 2024

April is National Garden Month, a perfect time to embrace the warmer weather, get your hands dirty, and indulge in the many joys and benefits of gardening.

Larissa and I have experimented with vegetable gardening over the years. We’ve had some very knowledgeable gardeners on the show in the past, including our friends Augie Sanchez (The Unkempt Gardener) and Megan Cain (The Creative Vegetable Gardener). These days, however, we’re sticking to flower gardens as they are easier for us to keep up with.

Whether you're cultivating a lush flower garden, starting a vegetable garden, or simply looking to green up your living space, this entire month of April is dedicated to celebrating the beauty that gardening brings into our lives.

In this episode of our podcast, we discuss some benefits of gardening for you and our planet and give you 10 ways to celebrate National Garden Month. You can check out our full show notes here.

VZ 448: Why I Stopped Being An Angry Vegan With Kate Galli Mar 10, 2024

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Kate Galli, a visionary vegan health coach who's been at the forefront of the fitness industry for over a decade.

What really interested me about Kate’s story is that she focuses a lot of what she teaches on mindset, which I feel is critical to accomplishing anything…including making changes to your health. Whether you're a vegetarian ready to go vegan, a vegan who just needs a bit more motivation, or an omnivore looking to start eating less meat, mindset is key to making any long-term significant changes.

We’re also excited to talk to Kate about how she used her own advice about changing her mindset to move from what she describes as being an “angry “vegan into choosing compassion.

You can check out the show notes here.

VZ 447: We Love Casseroles! 10 Tasty Vegetarian Casseroles Feb 25, 2024

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, Larissa and I will be talking about vegetarian casseroles. The reason we want to talk about casseroles is that, much like a lot of topics we discuss on the podcast, they are a big interest to us primarily because of how much time we’ve been saving by making casseroles to have throughout the week.

Meal planning and meal prep can be a big challenge for a lot of people so, much like our beloved Buddha Bowls, casseroles have come to our rescue when it comes to quick meals that can be as healthy as you want them to be.

Today, we’re sharing 10 vegetarian casseroles we’ve either tried or will be trying soon. We’re also going to talk about how to store these because being able to eat these for days is a big benefit but you want to be sure you’re storing it properly so it actually tastes good when you reheat it.

You can check out the full show notes with all of the recipes here.

VZ 446: 2024 Food and Beverage Trends That Sound Awesome! Feb 11, 2024

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to be discussing some food and beverage trends expected this year. Neither Larissa nor I consider ourselves “trendy” but when it comes to all things veg, it’s neat to see how much people are adapting even more flexitarian lifestyles whether it be because of their own health, the animals, the environment, or a combination of these.

Check out this page for full show notes.

VZ 445: The One About Us Jan 28, 2024

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about us! One of our longtime listeners requested that we do a show letting eveyrone know what we're up to so here we are! You can get links to everything we discuss in the show notes.

VZ 444: Ed and Natasha Tatton of BReD - Organic Sourdough and Baked Goods Nov 12, 2023

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’re pleased to welcome Ed and Natasha Tatton, co-founders of BReD–Organic Sourdough, a 100% plant-based café and bakery in Whistler, British Columbia.

We talk to Ed and Natasha about vegan baking and their new book, BReD: Sourdough Loaves, Small Breads, and Other Plant-Base Baking, a complete plant-based book for bakers that goes beyond just making bread. With their cookbook, bakers of all skill levels can create gorgeous vegan baked goods from cakes, muffins, and scones to biscuits, cookies, and tarts.

You can learn more about Ed and Natasha and find links to everything we discuss in the shownotes.

VZ 443: What's New in Plant-Based News October 2023 Oct 29, 2023

In this episode of The Vegetarian Podcast, Larissa and I talk about 3 recent news articles that caught our attention. Things are moving so fast in the plant-based space that we like to discuss topics here. You can check out the full show notes and links to the articles here.

VZ 442: What Is World Vegetarian Day? 8 Ways to Celebrate Vegetarianism Oct 15, 2023

We’re in October (already…can you believe it?!) and smack dab in the middle of Vegetarian Awareness Month. In this episode, we discuss 8 ways you can celebrate vegetarianism this month. You can check out the show notes here.

VZ 441: 15 Delicious Vegan Fall Desserts You Need to Try! Oct 01, 2023

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share 15 vegan fall desserts. We'll also share a quick vegan baking primer to help you swap ingredients in your own favorite dessert recipes to make them vegan. Check out the full show notes with links to all the recipes here.

VZ 440: Protein Power! 5 High Protein Milk Alternatives We Love Sep 17, 2023

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we're revisiting the topic of high protein milk alternatives. The state of the plant-based milk industry is certainly booming so we're sharing the latest plus 5 of our own recommendations.

VZ 439: 10 Vegetarian Lunch Ideas We’re Trying This Month! Sep 03, 2023

In the quest to find healthy, satisfying, and delicious meals, vegetarian lunch ideas often top the list. Forget boring salads; we're talking about hearty salads, grain bowls, and so much more. This month, we've curated a list of 10 vegetarian lunch ideas we can't wait to try. These recipes are packed with simple ingredients that provide a complete meal, boasting both rich, savory flavor and vital nutrients.

VZ 438: What's New In Plant-Based News: August 2023 Aug 20, 2023

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, Larissa and Vickie discuss 3 recent news articles and share their opinions and perspectives. You can get links to the articles plus full show notes here.

VZ 437: Reimagining Leather With Stephanie Downs Of Uncaged Innovations Aug 06, 2023

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re chatting with Stephanie Downs, CEO and Co-Founder of Uncaged Innovations, a company that creates material that mimics leather without sacrificing the characteristics that make it a desired material for the fashion, automotive, and home goods industries.

We chat with Stephanie about her journey to veganism and her inspiration for creating Uncaged Innovations. You can check out the full show notes here.

VZ 436: Plant-Based Cooking Made Easy With Diane Rose-Solomon Jul 23, 2023

Today, Larissa and I are thrilled to have Diane Rose-Solomon on the show. Diane's an animal rescue advocate, award-winning author, filmmaker, and the creator of "What's Plant-Based Cooking Good Looking?".

A certified Humane Education Specialist, Diane has transformed her life and others through her dedication to animal welfare and plant-based cooking. We’ll talk to her about her journey of companion animal rescue and the power of plant-based cuisine. Check out the full show notes here.

VZ 435: Embracing the Reducetarian Lifestyle: Brian Kateman's Vision of a Healthier Planet Jul 09, 2023

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Brian Kateman. Brian is the President and co-founder of The Reducetarian Foundation. He coined the term reducetarian, which we’ve often used on this show.

A reducetarian is a person who is deliberately reducing their consumption of meat but not necessarily going all-in on a plant-based diet.

We recently watched a documentary he produced based on his book Meat Me Halfway which explores reducetarianism through the lens of his own personal decision to eat less meat. Meat Me Halfway (2021) is a groundbreaking investigative journey that seeks to create some common ground at the dinner table. You can check out the full show notes here.

Mycoprotein: What Is It and Why Your Body and Planet Will LOVE It! Jun 18, 2023

Over the weekend I read an article in the Vegconomist on the topic of mycoprotein. “What is mycoprotein?”, you might be asking. Mycoprotein is a plant-based protein made from a fungus, and it’s something you may want to pay attention to whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or are just looking to have less meat on your plate.

We're going to discuss how this meat alternative is shaking up the food industry by introducing a whole new dimension to the vegan diet. You can check out the full show notes here.

VZ 433: The Ultimate Guide To Potluck Etiquette: How To Make Sure EVERYONE Has A Good Time! Jun 04, 2023

Potluck etiquette is like the secret sauce that turns a good food fest into a great one.

Picture this: your friends, family, and neighbors getting together for a massive feast, each showcasing their kitchen prowess and favorite recipes. Sounds pretty amazing, right? It’s a cost-effective way to have a good time and indulge in an array of delicious home-cooked meals. But as with any successful gathering, a few unspoken guidelines help keep potluck parties running smoothly.

When the guest list includes vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies, these potluck rules of thumb become all the more crucial. Whether you’re playing host or bringing a dish as a guest, nailing a potluck usually boils down to common courtesy and basic manners. But let’s be honest, it can get a bit tricky at times. That’s why we’re here to share some guidance on the right potluck etiquette. Let’s dive in! You can check out the full show notes here. And be sure to check out the 40 Vegan and Vegetarian Potluck Ideas we discuss in this episode.

VZ 432: Is Being Vegetarian Healthy? Our Journey And What We've Discovered So Far May 21, 2023

2023 marks 10 years since Larissa and I made the decision to become vegetarians and we’ve learned a lot along the way. One question we hear every now and then from people not familiar with plant-based diets is, “Is being vegetarian (or vegan) even healthy?”

Well, we thought the 10-year anniversary of when we made the decision to go veg would be a great time to discuss this and to look back on all we’ve learned so far. Check out the full show notes here with links to everything we discuss.

VZ 431: Vegan Charcuterie Boards: Enchant Your Guests with These Plant-Based Masterpieces May 07, 2023

Discover the world of vegan charcuterie boards! Explore creative ideas to craft stunning, mouthwatering plant-based spreads for any occasion.

You can check out the show notes for this episode here.

VZ 430: Is Yeast Vegan? Let's Have Some Fungi Fun! Apr 23, 2023

If you've ever wondered, "Is yeast vegan?" this one's for you! We'll answer the question and provide some yeast health benefits plus recipes! You can check out the full show notes here.

VZ 429: Tostada-rific! 10 Vegan Tostada Recipe Ideas for Busy Weeknights Apr 02, 2023

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we’re going to share 10 vegan tostada ideas for busy weeknights. Larissa and I appreciate quick easy meals as I’m sure a lot of you do as well. Tostadas are a meal we have in our rotation but they can sometimes get a little boring so we’re going to share some ideas we’ll be trying soon.

You can check out the show notes here.

VZ 428: Toni Okamoto Shares How to Be Plant-Based on a Budget Mar 19, 2023

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Toni Okamoto who is the founder of Plant-Based on a Budget, the popular website and social media platform that teaches millions how to eat more plants without breaking their budget. She’s also the author of the book Plant-Based on a Budget Quick & Easy cookbook, and the co-host of The Plant-Powered People Podcast.

We talk to Toni about her own plant-based journey and she'll also share some tips for being plant-based on a budget. Be sure to check out the full show notes here.

VZ 427: Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth With These Vegan Girl Scout Cookies Mar 05, 2023

It’s that time of year again! The Girl Scouts of America will be out in full force, green sashes and all, peddling their delicious boxes of cookies.

But if you’re vegan, are you able to partake of this yearly deliciousness? The short answer is YES. There are some delicious vegan Girl Scout Cookies to choose from! Let’s go over your vegan cookie options. You can check out our full show notes here.

VZ 426: 7 Tips for a Successful Veganuary and Beyond! Jan 29, 2023

In this episode we share 7 tips to help you succeed through Veganuary and beyond!

VZ 425: 10 Years of Vegetarian Zen! Jan 15, 2023

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we celebrate 10 years of the podcast by reminiscing about some of our favorite guests. You can check out our full show notes here.

VZ 424: Vegetarian Zen Presents Your 2022 Vegan Gift Guide Nov 27, 2022

Looking for some great gift ideas for your favorite vegetarian or vegan? Check out our 2022 vegan gift guide for some of our faves! You can find a link to all of the products we mention in the show notes.

VZ 423: Vegan Thanksgiving To Go? Yup! 5 Places You Can Get it Now! Nov 13, 2022

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re talking about something that is relatively new — vegan Thanksgiving to go! If you're not in the mood to cook your turkey-free feast this year, don't fret! Several meal delivery services now offer holiday menus that you can have delivered to your door (or available for pick-up). You can check out links to everything we talk about here.

VZ 422: New in Plant-Based News (Oct 2022) Oct 30, 2022

Larissa and Vickie discuss some hot topics in plant-based news. Check out the articles and show notes here.

VZ 421: 20 Vegan Halloween Candy Favorites Your Trick or Treaters will LOVE Oct 16, 2022

We're keeping the spooky season theme going from our last episode and sharing 20 awesome vegan Halloween Candy treats! These are store-bought candies that are pretty easy to find.

So pop in a scary movie and get your sweet tooth ready for some of these awesome vegan Halloween candy options!

You can check out the show notes here.

VZ 420: Trick or Treat! 12 Fun Vegan Halloween Recipes To Try Oct 02, 2022

Whether you’re heading to a Halloween get-together or just want to enjoy some fun foods at home, these 12 Vegan Halloween treats will add some delicious fun to the season! Check out the full show notes here.

VZ 419: Is Tofu Vegan? Benefits Plus 5 Awesome Recipes To Try Sep 18, 2022

This episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast is about Tofu. We talked about tofu a loooong time ago. Since then, we’ve learned a TON about cooking with tofu so we wanted to recap some of the benefits of cooking with tofu and also share 5 of our favorite recipes.

Be sure to check out the show notes where we share more about how to press and marinate tofu.

VZ 418: Say Pleese Cheese! Chatting with Kobi Regev of Pleese Foods Sep 04, 2022

In This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Kobi Regev, CEO and Co-Founder of Pleese Foods, a company specializing in plant-based cheese made from a proprietary blend of bean and potato proteins.

We talk to Kobi about his own plant-based journey and about his inspiration for creating Pleese Cheese. Check out the links for everything we discussed here.

VZ 417: These Amazing Vegan Fashion Brands Are Shaking Up The Fashion Industry Aug 21, 2022

When it comes to vegan clothing and cruelty-free beauty products, the fashion industry is taking notice. How do we know this? Because the competition is ramping up when it comes to vegan products.

When we started the Vegetarian Zen podcast in 2013, there wasn't a ton of brands or products to talk about in the vegan lifestyle space. Sure, there were some but when you compare it to the offerings these days, it doesn't even compare.

Even for those not living a vegan lifestyle, there is a lot more concern about the environmental impact our daily choices are making on the planet. In addition to the sustainability of products, concerns about fair trade and how workers are treated across the globe has sparked a lot of concern especially among younger generations.

In episode 416, of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we interviewed actor, Torrey Devitto who talked about some of her favorite fashion and beauty brands so we decided to dive deeper into some of those companies and share a few of our own. Check out the full show notes here.

VZ 416: Actor Torrey DeVitto On Conscious Consumerism and Cruelty-Free Fashion Aug 07, 2022

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Torrey DeVitto. Torrey is an actor and musician who has recently wrapped up 6 seasons on Chicago Med.

In addition to being an actor, Torrey is a passionate animal advocate. We’re going to talk to her about her own plant-based journey and how she incorporates eco-conscious sustainability into her life.

You can check out some of the cruelty-free products and vegan fashion Torrey mentions in the show notes.

VZ 415: Body On Fire with Dr. Monica Aggarwal Jul 24, 2022

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Dr. Monica Aggarwal, MD, co-author of the book, Body on Fire Anti-Inflammatory Cookbook: Your Guide to eating Plant Foods that Fight Disease

We’ll speak to Dr. Aggarwal about how improving your diet is one of the most important things you can do to reduce inflammation and improve your health.

You can find the show notes here.

VZ 414: 8 Simple Tips for Eating Plant-Based on a Budget Jul 10, 2022

A common misconception about eating a plant-based diet (besides a lack of protein) is that plant-based eating is way more expensive than eating an omnivore diet.

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast we’re sharing 8 tips for eating plant-based on a budget.

Links to everything we discuss on the in this episode can be found in the show notes.

VZ 413: The Top Vegan Ice Cream Brands of 2022 Jun 26, 2022

In this episode of our podcast, Larissa and I talk about the top brands creating deliciuos non-dairy frozen desserts. We take a deeper look into our favorite brand, Ben & Jerry's.

VZ 412: 15 Easy Zero Waste Swaps The Planet Will Love You For! Jun 12, 2022

These 15 zero waste swaps are not only great for the planet but can save you money in the long run.

VZ 411: Vegetariana: A Mix of Wit, Lore, and Delicious Vegan Recipes with Nava Atlas May 29, 2022

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Nava Atlas, author of multiple vegetarian and vegan cookbooks. We’re going to talk to Nava about her recently updated book, Vegetariana that was just re-released in it’s 4th edition.

VZ 410 Vegan Fitness Coach Gabriel Zhanay On How to Empower Yourself and Others May 15, 2022

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Gabriel Zhanay, a vegan fitness coach who helps empower vegans through health and fitness. We’ll talk to Gabriel about his own plant-based journey and how his coaching program helps empower fellow vegans.

VZ 409: Rym Selmi of MiiRO Talks Vegan Chocolate Bars & Treats! May 01, 2022

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Rym Selmi, CEO of Miiro, a company that makes wholesome chocolate treats and baking goodies.

We’re going to talk to Rym about her own plant-based journey and also about her inspiration for creating Miiro.

VZ 408: Easy Vegan Home Cooking With Laura Theodore Apr 17, 2022

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome back one of our greatest inspirations for our podcast, Laura Theodore, aka, The Jazzy Vegetarian.

Laura is back to talk about her new book, “Easy Vegan Home Cooking”.

You can find all the links to the show notes here.

VZ 407: Vegan Life Coach, Ella Magers, on Being a Sexy Fit Vegan Apr 03, 2022

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we welcome Ella Magers of Sexy Fit Vegan. Ella has been a dedicated vegan since the age of 7 and is on a mission to transform the culture of the vegan movement from the inside out.

We talk to talk to Ella about what it was like becoming vegan at such an early age and about her coaching program to help empower fellow vegans with the tools they need to heal themselves.

VZ 406: New In Plant-Based News (March 2022) Mar 20, 2022

Larissa and Vickie discuss 3 recent articles impacting the plant-based industry.

VZ 405: 10 Immune-Boosting Meals That Will Make Your Body Happy! Mar 06, 2022

As we write this in February 2022, the world is experiencing a pandemic and many people are concerned with keeping themselves as healthy as possible. It’s important to make sure our immune systems are functioning at their best. This is especially true for people with pre-existing conditions; exposure to any type of illness can further compromise their health.

One way to help ensure a healthy immune system is by incorporating immune-boosting foods into your diet. Eating immune-boosting foods regularly keeps the immune system strong and makes it better prepared to fight off sickness and infection.

You can check out the show notes for this episode here.

VZ 404: 9 Tips For An Amazing Vegan Wedding Feb 20, 2022

Larissa and I were married in 2015 (we’ve been together since 2002). We’ve discussed our wedding here and there on this show but we thought it might be a good time to discuss how we had a vegan wedding without people even realizing that it was vegan!

As things are starting to open (with the caution of course during a pandemic) we thought this year and this month (February) would be a great time to talk about how we planned our wedding to help anyone out there planning a plant-based wedding.

Even if you aren’t planning a wedding anytime soon (or already had yours), these tips can also be applicable for gatherings.

VZ 403: Plan To Eat Is The Best Meal Planning App We’ve Tried! Here’s Why Feb 06, 2022

Plan to Eat is definitely our favorite meal-planning app by far. In this review, we’ll explain some of the great features that have kept us loyal Plan to Eat customers for years.

VZ 402: Malibu Mylk with Brittany Fuisz Jan 23, 2022

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Brittany Fuisz, CEO and Founder of Malibu Mylk, a sustainable, allergen-free alternative milk.

We talk to Brittany about her background, how she created Malibu Mylk, and also, let you know where you can find MM. Brittany also has a generous offer for our community so be sure you listen all the way through!

VZ 401: Veggie-Only Burgers with Jason Rosenbaum of Actual Veggie Jan 09, 2022

Vegetarian Zen LOVES to celebrate awesome plant-based businesses because we think they are a big part of what helps make life easier for vegetarians and vegans while also helping to show those who aren’t vegetarian or vegan that life is without meat is possible and, in fact, can be quite delicious!

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Jason Rosenbaum, Co-Founder of Actual Veggies, delicious chef-crafted fresh and refrigerated burgers that celebrate vegetables because they are ALL vegetables!

VZ 400: Celebrating 400 Episodes of Vegetarian Zen Dec 26, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we celebrate 400 episodes! Larissa and I discuss what we've learned, some of our favorite episodes, and what the future holds for Vegetarian Zen.

VZ 399: 14 Delicious Vegan and Vegetarian Christmas Dinner Recipes Dec 12, 2021

The holiday season is my absolute FAVORITE time of year! For me, it's always meant Christmas Eve with family, friends, and a great Christmas meal.

Contrary to many stereotypes, being a vegan or vegetarian doesn't mean missing out on a great dinner!

Here are 14 vegan and vegetarian Christmas dinner ideas that will satisfy vegetarians, vegans, and even your omnivore family members.

VZ 398: 20 Vegan Costco Finds That Make The Membership Worth It! Nov 28, 2021

Recently, a Costco opened up just down the street from our house and we were SUPER excited! In this episode of the podcast, we share 20 awesome vegan Costco finds that make the price of membership TOTALLY worth it!

Check out links to the products we discuss in the show notes.

VZ 397: 5 Tips for Making Amazing Vegan Tamales Nov 14, 2021

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share 5 tips for making AMAZING vegan tamales along with 5 recipes.

You can find all the links to the recipes here.

VZ 396: 12 Great Gifts for Vegans and Vegetarians in 2021 Oct 31, 2021

'Tis the season for gift-giving! We've curated 12 great gifts for vegans, vegetarians, and well, just about anyone who enjoys a great gift!

VZ 395: Building Better Human and Dog Relationships with Heather Beck of K9 Lifeline Oct 17, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Heather Beck of K9 Lifeline, a company that specializes in training, education, and care of dogs.

Larissa and I first learned about K9 Lifeline when we were watching one of our favorite shows, “The Profit” on MSNBC with Camping World CEO Marcus Lemonis.

Heather and K9 Lifeline were the focus of one of the episodes and we were very moved by her mission to provide training and education to dogs and dog owners in order to help prevent surrenders, or even worse, DUMPED dogs!

You can check out the show notes here which include a special coupon code from Heather just for our listeners!

VZ 394: Saving our Seas with Doug Hines of Atlantic Natural Foods Oct 03, 2021

In today’s episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome J. Douglas Hines, founder of Atlantic Natural Foods, a company that produces convenient plant-based products.

Prior to founding Atlantic Natural Foods, Mr. Hines was a leader in the global seafood industry for more than 40 years. The abuse of our oceans by commercial fishermen is what inspired him to leave the fishing industry.

For more about Doug, check out the show notes!

VZ 393: 10 of The Best Vegetarian Cookbooks for Beginners Sep 19, 2021

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss 10 of the best vegetarian cookbooks for beginners.

VZ 392: Teaching Kids to Grow, Cook, and Taste the Seasons with Joanne Roach Sep 05, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Joanne Roach of The Foodies (thefoodies.org) which is a site that helps children understand where food comes from. It’s all about trying new things to make the link between the seasons and their plates.

Check out the show notes here.

VZ 391: No Oil? No Problem! How to Cook Without Oil Aug 22, 2021

In episode 390 of the podcast, we talked about some simple swaps you can make in cake mix to make it a vegan cake mix.

Inspired by that discussion, we’re going to expand our discussion of “swaps” in the oil space. In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to give you some tips for cooking without oil. Yes, it is possible!

VZ 390: Fabulous Vegan Cake Mix for the Baking-Challenged Aug 08, 2021

Who doesn’t love a good cake? If you’re a vegetarian who still consumes some eggs and dairy, baking cakes at home won’t change much for you.

However, if you’re vegan or just trying to consume fewer eggs and dairy, cake-baking can be a bit more challenging, especially at the beginning of your plant-based journey.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about how you can easily veganize cakes you make at home including how you can take a box of cake mix and easily make it vegan.

Be sure to visit the show notes for quick links to everything we discuss.

VZ 389: 8 of the Best Vegan Yogurt Brands of 2021 Jul 25, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about 8 of the best vegan yogurt brands of 2021 as named by our amazing closed Facebook Group, The Peas and Carrots Society. With so much change happening in the plant-based space we like to keep you, our listeners, up to date on the latest and greatest so that’s what we’re going to do here today.

For complete show notes

and links to all the things we mention, head out to vegetarianzen.com/389.

VZ 388: Tyler Mayoras and the Making of Cool Beans Jul 19, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Tyler Mayoras, CEO, and co-founder of Cool Beans, which strives to bring whole-food goodness to the frozen foods section of your grocery store by creating minimally-processed food that is good for your body, soul, and for the planet.

We will talk to Tyler about his own plant-based journey, about his inspiration for creating Cool Beans, and about what he sees in the future for the plant-based industry.

VZ 387: Growing Hot Peppers with Jenny of Grow Hot Peppers Jun 27, 2021

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Jenny TB of Grow Hot Peppers. Jenny loves to garden and taught herself how to grow all kinds of pepper varieties and today, she’s going to talk about how you can get started growing your own peppers no matter what space limitations you may have.

VZ 386: This Week In Plant-Based News (June 2021) Jun 13, 2021

We discuss some of the top stories in plant-based news.

VZ 385: How Culinary Rx Can Boost Your Plant-Based Cooking Skills May 30, 2021

In this episode of the vegetarian zen podcast, we’re going to discuss my recent completion of Rouxbe’s Culinary Rx Online Cooking course.

You may recall that in 2018, I took their Forks Over Knives cooking course so I decided to give another course a try. I’ll tell you what I learned and give you a rundown of what this course entails should you choose to look into it for yourself or for that aspiring plant-based chef in your life since you can also gift this course.

VZ 384: 10 of The MOST Delicious Vegan Chips May 16, 2021

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast isn’t quite the healthiest episode we’ve ever done but, life is all about balance right? Today, we’re talking about the top 10 vegan chips as voted on by us and by our trusted Peas and Carrots Society.

We started Vegetarian Zen in 2013 and we like to stay on top of food trends. Things are changing so fast in the plant-based world and that’s a great thing because the more vegan and vegetarian options there are, the more people are inclined to give it a try.

So today we’re going to be talking about vegan chips which again, isn’t the healthiest, but allows people to make choices and have options that allow them to still stay on track with respect to their own plant-based journey.

VZ 383: You Need These Delicious Vegan Coffee Creamers In Your Life! May 02, 2021

Vegan coffee lovers rejoice! With the rise of vegan plant-based milk over the past several years, there are PLENTY of vegan coffee creamers to choose from that can take that morning cuppa Joe from drab to fab! Even if you aren't a vegan but are simply looking to reduce dairy, these non-dairy options won't disappoint.

In this episode of our podcast, break down the most popular vegan coffee creamers and tell you a little about each so that you can decide for yourself if they're right for you!

VZ 382: Crafting Seitan with Skye Michael Conroy (aka The Gentle Chef) Apr 18, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Skye Michael Conroy aka The Gentle Chef. Skye is a vegan chef and author of several vegan cookbooks including his latest, “Crafting Seitan: Creating Homemade Plant-based Meats.”

Skye talks to us about his journey to becoming vegan and shares how he became a vegan chef. We’ll also talk about his book, Crafting Seitan, which can help you break away from commercial mock meat products and learn to make your own delicious versions, complete with all the trimmings!

VZ 381: Unreal Deli is the Real Deal! Chatting with Founder Jenny Goldfarb Apr 04, 2021

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Jenny Goldfarb, the founder of Unreal deli the finest plant-based deli meats inspired by over 100 years of New York deli history.

We talk to Jenny about what inspired her to create Unreal Deli, what it’s like running her plant-based business and also, about her experience on Shark Tank where she landed a deal with Mark Cuban.

VZ 380: Overcoming Obstacles to Becoming Vegan With Certified Life Coach Michele Olender Mar 21, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome Certified Life Coach Michele Olender. Michele specializes in helping people eliminate consumption of animal products and helps existing vegetarians/vegans take on challenging new goals.

VZ 379: What Is Black Salt? Benefits, Side Effects, Plus 5 Savory Recipes Mar 07, 2021

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about black salt also known as Himalayan black salt or Kala Namak. We discuss the benefits, side effects, where you can buy it, and provide you with a few recipes to get you started cooking with it.

VZ 378: How To Be A Contented Vegan with Peggy Brusseau Feb 21, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we are pleased to welcome food writer Peggy Brusseau, author of The Contented Vegan.

VZ 377: Sprouting - What It Is and Why You Should Be Doing It with Doug Evans Feb 07, 2021

In this episode, we are pleased to welcome Doug Evans, an entrepreneur who was an early pioneer in the natural food industry.

In his new book, The Sprout Book, Doug talks all about sprouts and how we can tap into the power of the planet’s most nutritious foods.

VZ 376: Celebrating Human Imperfection with Molly Patrick of Clean Food Dirty Girl Jan 24, 2021

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Molly Patrick. Molly is the co-founder of Clean Food Dirty Girl whose mission it is to help people eat more plants while finding joy in doing so.

VZ 375: Quantum Shift with Creator, Producer, Director Kiko Ellsworth Jan 10, 2021

In this episode of The Vegetarian Zen podcast, we are pleased to welcome Kiko Ellsworth.

Kiko is an Emmy award-winning actor, producer, director who has appeared in hundreds of television shows, films, and commercials but he also has an inspiring story on how he became the person he is today which, among other things, is someone who is very passionate about veganism and leading a holistic, cruelty-free lifestyle.

VZ 374: Conscious Consumerism with Adriane Marie of HEALabel Dec 27, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re chatting with Adriane Marie, founder of Healabel, an awareness initiative that aims to improve consumer transparency by shedding light on our purchases.

In addition to talking to Adriane about Healabel, we’ll also be talking to her about her new self-published children’s book, The Roots of our Food.

Adriane wrote, illustrated, and narrated this book and we are looking forward to talking to her about her inspiration for creating it.

VZ 373: Good Food Gratitude with Hollan Hawaii Dec 13, 2020

In today’s episode, we are pleased to welcome Hollan Hawaii.

Hollan is a Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef, health advocate, former restaurant owner, mom of three, plant-based cookbook author, and expert in vegan plant-based food.

We’re going to talk to Hollan about her cookbook Good Food Gratitude and the positive impacts she’s experienced when she moved to a plant-based diet over a decade ago.

VZ 372: Is Splendid Spoon Right For You? Here's Our Review Nov 29, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be reviewing Splendid Spoon! Splendid Spoon is a meal subscription service that specializes in clean ingredients.

We'll share our honest review of pros and cons.

VZ 371: The Upcycled Art World of Cheery Bird Vintage Nov 15, 2020

In this episode of our podcast, we talk about “upcycling”. We discuss what it is, how it’s different from recycling, and talk about our business, Cheery Bird Vintage, and how we use upcycling as a BIG part of that business.

VZ 370: 8 Energy-Boosting Wellness Shots Nov 01, 2020

While I've always been a big fan of juices and smoothies, wellness shots aren't something I've made at home so, I decided to do some experimenting!

Not familiar with wellness shots? No problem! In this episode, you'll learn:

What Are Wellness Shots?
Are Wellness Shots Good for You?
Are There Any Risks with Taking Wellness Shots?
Do I Need a Juicer to Make My Own?
Some Common Ingredients and Their Benefits
8 Wellness Shot Recipes
How to Store Your Wellness Shots

VZ 369: Oncology Dietitian Alison Tierney on Battling Chronic Illness Oct 18, 2020

In this episode of the VZ podcast, we are pleased to welcome Alison Tierney. Alison is an outpatient oncology dietitian working with patients during cancer treatments to ensure adequate nutrition and symptom relief.

VZ 368: Let's Ask Marion: An Interview with Marion Nestle Oct 04, 2020

Marion is a Paulette Goddard Professor of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health, Emerita at New York University.

Her passionate and clarifying insights into food politics challenge people to consider their own role in the global food chain, and to strive for a healthier, more sustainable, more equitable future.

In our conversation with Marion we talk about her latest book, Let’s Ask Marion, which takes a conversational Q&A format with questions posed by environmentalists and food writer Kerry Trueman.

VZ 367: The Secrets of Successful Batch Cooking With Stephanie Dreyer Sep 19, 2020

Batch cooking can help you save time, money, and stay on track with your health goals. Stephanie Dreyer shares her TOP tips for batch cooking.

VZ 366: 7 of the Best Vegan, Reef-Safe, and Cruelty-Free Sunscreens Sep 06, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re talking about vegan and cruelty-free sunscreens. We’re going to discuss:

Some sunscreen terminology to help you better understand how to pick a sunscreen that’s right for you
One not-too-common term we’ll share is “reef-safe”. We’ll talk about how some countries and US states within the US are banning certain sunscreens.
We’re going to give you 7 of the best cruelty-free, vegan, reef-friendly sunscreens as recommended by our closed Facebook group The Peas and Carrots Society.

VZ 365: What Exactly are Lentils and What The Heck Can I Do with Them? Aug 23, 2020

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about lentils.

You’re going to learn:

What lentils are
The different types of lentils
What lentils do for your body
5 recipes to inspire you plus 3 unconventional ways to eat them

VZ 364: 10 Vegetarian & Vegan Pantry Essentials Aug 09, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share 10 vegetarian and vegan pantry essentials that can help ensure you're always ready to cook up something delicious and nutritious!

VZ 363: Let's Go on a Vegan Picnic! Jul 26, 2020

It’s summertime and the living is easy. While it’s blazing hot down here in south Texas and going outdoors is something really tough to do right now, we thought this would be the perfect time for a virtual vegan Picnic!

We asked our friends in our closed Facebook group, The Peas and Carrots Society, to let us know what they’d be bringing.

In this episode of the podcast, we’re going to share some of their responses.

VZ 362: The Ultimate Intentional Living Roadmap with Jen Rao Jul 12, 2020

In this episode, we welcome Jen Rao of Clear Your Life.Clear Your Life was founded on the belief that simplified, beautiful living space will not only reduce stress but allow you to create better relationships, work & fulfillment in your life.Jen recently wrote an article titled, "The Ultimate Intentional Living Road Map" where she discusses how we can design our lives to be more in line with our values. Whether it’s finally making the decision to go plant-based or finally starting a business, Jen will walk us through how to set our intentions and create a workable plan for ourselves.

VZ 361: Spice Up Your Life with these Vegan and Vegetarian Seasonings! Jun 28, 2020

Vegan and vegetarian food can sometimes get a bad rap as consisting of nothing more than bland food! I know that before I became a vegetarian, I believed this stereotype just because I didn’t know any better.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we are putting that stereotype to rest! We’ll be sharing 10 of our FAVORITE go-to seasonings and also sharing some from our close Facebook group, The Peas and Carrots Society.

VZ 360: Zero Waste Stores with Callee Ackland of Hippie Haven Jun 14, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Callee Ackland of Hippie Haven, the first zero-waste store in South Dakota.

We’re going to talk to Callee about what a “zero-waste” store is, and also about the mission at Hippie Haven whose vendors are 70% women-owned.

VZ 359: Vegan for Everyone with Laura Theodore (aka The Jazzy Vegetarian) May 31, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we are pleased to welcome Laura Theodore, aka. The Jazzy Vegetarian.

What’s EXTRA exciting about having Laura on the show is that she was one of our inspirations for creating The Vegetarian Zen podcast.

Many of you know that we started Vegetarian Zen as a place for people to feel comfortable asking questions and learning more about being plant-based without feeling bullied or pressured. We wanted to focus on the positive aspects of being vegan or vegetarian.

Today we get to know Laura a little more and talk about her latest book, Vegan For Everyone.

VZ 358: Traveling and Supporting Local Businesses with Bree and Ben May 17, 2020

In this episode of the VZ podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Benjamin Hagerty and Brianne Nemiroff of the blog It’s Bree and Ben: Live and Travel Kindly.

We talk to them about how they started out their life of travel and how they use their blog to help guide people to kind choices in travel, dining, and shopping.

VZ 357: 7 Things You Should Know About a Plant-Based Diet and Diabetes May 03, 2020

A plant-based diet is a powerful tool in helping you manage your diabetes. It can even reverse it!

A few weeks ago, Larissa had a bit of a scare with her blood-sugar levels shooting up. Because she can’t take any medicines such as Metformin to help her control her diabetes, she needs to ensure she’s eating right and moving.

This recent scare made us go back and review some of the basics about controlling diabetes.

In this episode of the VZ podcast, we’re going to share 7 things you should know about being diabetic on a plant-based diet.

Always talk to a doctor!

VZ 356: Why Being a Part-Time Vegan is Better Than Nothing with Siovonne Smith Apr 19, 2020

Today we are excited to welcome Siovonne Smith, author of the book The 3-Day Vegan.

When we reviewed Siovanne’s book, The 3-Day Vegan, we really resonated with the message.

In her book, Siovanne gives you step by step suggestions, inspiration, and motivation to help you ease into veganism 3 days at a time.

Whether you’re a vegetarian looking to incorporate some vegan days or, you’re an omnivore who isn’t really interested in becoming vegetarian or vegan but would simply like to reduce your consumption of meat and dairy, this book has something for you!

VZ 355: The Best Sources for Vegan Probiotics Apr 05, 2020

As we are currently dealing with a global pandemic, it’s essential that we are keeping ourselves healthy. One of the ways we keep ourselves healthy is by keeping our guts healthy.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about probiotics. More specifically, we’ll be talking about vegan probiotics. We’ll talk about what they are and the best sources.

VZ 354: 10 Healthy Coping Mechanisms During Uncertain Times Mar 29, 2020

There is no doubt that these times we are in are not like anything most of us have experienced before. Hopefully, it won’t be something we will experience ever again.

With things so uncertain these days many people are feeling sad, angry, confused, and isolated.

Today on the podcast, we want to share 10 healthy coping mechanisms that you can use to help you during these uncertain times.

VZ 353: What is Miso? Mar 22, 2020

Back in episode 176, we talked about the amazing benefits of fermented foods and one of the foods we discussed was miso.

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen is all about miso. This was something I had no clue about until I became a vegetarian. I didn’t know it existed! This is a great example of where becoming a vegetarian expanded my food choices and experiences.

VZ 352 : On Being a "Joyful Vegan" with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau Mar 15, 2020

Today on the podcast, we are excited to welcome recognized expert and thought leader in the culinary, social, ethical, and practical aspects of living vegan, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau.

Colleen is an award-winning author and hosts two podcasts, Food for Thought and Animology. Today, we’ll be talking more in-depth about her latest book, The Joyful Vegan.

VZ 351: The Three R's - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Mar 08, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to be talking about the 3 terms often used when talking about waste. Those terms are:

Reduce
Reuse
Recycle

We’re going to talk about the definition of each and provide you some ways you can help out our planet by participating in reducing, recycling, and reusing.

Now before you start thinking, “I know what each of these mean. I’m good.” Stick around! I know I thought I knew a lot about these already too but did pick up a few things myself.

VZ 350: The Gluten Free Vegan Mar 01, 2020

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, like many others, is a listener request. We’ve had several folks in our community contact us letting us know that they want to learn more about what it means to eat gluten-free on a vegan diet.

This is one of those episodes where we are talking about “a vegan diet” because, for the most part, cheese and dairy are gluten-free.

We’re going to talk about:

What gluten is.
Celiac disease
What you can eat if you are a vegan, vegetarian, or reducetarian looking to avoid gluten
Some sneaky foods you might think are gluten-free but may not be (always double-check!)

VZ 349: Healing Disordered Eating with Holistic Health Coach Cara Cifelli Feb 23, 2020

Cara Cifelli is a Certified Health Coach, Holistic Nutritionist, chef, author, podcast host, and avocado toast lover.

Cara passionately provides the tools to help women leave behind dieting, disordered eating, and body shame so they can show up more fully in all areas of their life.

In this episode, we talk to Cara about our own issues with disordered eating.

VZ 348: The Dangers of Balloon Releases Feb 16, 2020

Balloon releases have been around for decades but did you know that they are extremely harmful to our animal friends AND our environment?

VZ 347: Vegan Travel Tips with Brighde Reed of World Vegan Travel Feb 13, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re pleased to welcome Brighde Reed to the show.

Brighde is one of the co-founders of World Vegan Travel, a company that creates luxurious travel experiences for vegans and the vegan-curious.

Brighde is going to tell us all about World Vegan travel and then share some general travel tips for traveling as a vegan or vegetarian.

VZ 346: How to Get Enough Potassium Feb 02, 2020

In last week’s episode of our podcast, we talked about the top tools we’re using to get healthier this year.

One of those tools is an app called My Fitness Pal which we use to log our daily food intake. Using this app, we’ve gained some insight into our macronutrients and where we needed to focus in order to eat a more balanced diet.

One of the macronutrients we had never given much thought to is potassium. What we found is that we consistently fall short in hitting our recommended daily intake in this area.

After experiencing some muscle cramping recently, it occurred to me that this may be related to my potassium deficiency.

In this episode, we’re going to talk about what potassium is and how to ensure you’re getting enough.

VZ 345: The Top 9 Kitchen Tools Helping Us Get Healthier in 2020 Jan 26, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be discussing the top 9 tools we’re using to help us get healthier in 2020.

We want to stress that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get healthy. Keep in mind that we’ve accumulated the kitchen tools we’re going to discuss over time and they aren’t essential. We simply want to share these with you today so that you can decide for yourself what makes sense to invest in to make your life a little bit easier.

VZ 344: 7 of the Healthiest Seeds and Some Ways to Eat Them Jan 19, 2020

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about seeds! More specifically, we’re going to talk about 7 of the healthiest seeds you can eat to give you a nutrition boost. Of course, we can’t talk about food without giving you some ideas and recipes so we’ll be talking about some of those too!

VZ 343: A Review of Our New Cuisinart Air Fryer Toaster Oven Jan 12, 2020

Yes, we finally did it! We bought an air fryer!

Back in episode 259 of our podcast, we talked about air frying.

When we did this episode, we didn’t have a fryer of our own but asked for some input from our Peas and Carrots Society on Facebook about their experiences with air frying. Was it awesome or just a bunch of hot air?

While the majority of our folks were really digging the air fryer, we weren’t exactly sold. That is, until this past Black Friday when Amazon was running a sale.

In this episode of our podcast, we’re going to talk about which air fryer we purchased and provide you with a review.

VZ 342: How to Cook Quinoa and What To Do With It Jan 05, 2020

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about quinoa! Specifically we’ll be talking about:

What quinoa is
What are the health benefits
Is it considered gluten-free?
Is it Keto-Friendly?
And last but not least, how to cook it!
We’ll be sharing a few favorited recipes in our show notes at www.vegetarianzen.com/342 so be sure to head out and check those out after you have a listen!

VZ 341: Instead of "New Year, New Me" Try This! Dec 29, 2019

We are knocking on the door of a brand new year and many people are thinking about New Year’s resolutions.

“New Year, New Me!” is the rallying cry of many people vowing to take up good habits and ditch old bad habits.

Well, most people know that the percentage of people who actually accomplish New Year’s resolutions is very small.

This year, instead of “New Year, New Me’ we’re going to offer you 5 ways to think about the upcoming new year that might help increase the odds of you actually moving the needle on those things, you deem important for yourself.

VZ 340: 7 Tips for Navigating the Holidays As Vegetarian or Vegan Dec 22, 2019

Whether you’re a guest or hosting a holiday , being a vegetarian, vegan, or reducetarian can be a bit tricky to navigate socially.

In this episode, we give you 5 tips to help you navigate the holiday season as a vegan or vegetarian.

VZ 339: The Best Darn Instant Pot Vegetarian Chili...Seriously Ya'll! Dec 15, 2019

Tis the season for some hot comfort food and the one we’re going to talk about today will NOT disappoint.

Today we’re going to talk about instant pot vegetarian chili.

Now, we’re from Texas so we take are chili VERY seriously! So be sure to stay tuned as we discuss a great instant pot vegetarian chili recipe!

VZ 338: Awesome Sauce! 8 Vegan Sauces You Need to Try Dec 08, 2019

The perfect sauce can take a dish from bland to simply AMAZING! Here are 8 awesome vegan sauces that you need to give a try!

VZ 337: A Review of The Game Changers Dec 01, 2019

Back in episode 275 we did an episode called The Rise of the Vegan Athlete that talked about how many athletes were turning to a plant-based diet.

If you listened to that episode, you might recall that I was particularly excited about this because, as a former athlete, I know there are a lot of stereotypes and misinformation about vegans being unable to get the nutrition they need to perform at the top levels of their given sport.

Today, we’re going to review a recent documentary called The Game Changers that talks all about the rise of plant-based diets in sports and helps to dispel some of the previous negative mindset and stereotypes.

VZ 336: Your Guide to Vegan Chocolate Nov 24, 2019

Who doesn’t love a good piece of chocolate? I know we do!

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk ALL about chocolate and more specifically, VEGAN chocolate.

First, we’re going to talk about

What makes chocolate vegan
Whether chocolate is good for you or not
Where you can buy vegan chocolate
How to make your own vegan chocolate

VZ 335: Vegan Leather... It's not Your Mom's Pleather! Nov 17, 2019

When we first became vegetarians in 2013, the state of vegan fashion wasn’t nearly what it is now. That was only 6 years ago!

Today, because people are starting to understand that we don’t need to use animals for food and clothing, demand for vegan and cruelty-free products is WAY up!

One of those products is vegan leather. While vegan leather has existed for a while, the types of materials now being used to substitute for leather made from animal skin is expanding greatly!

Today we’re going to talk about vegan leather and share a few places where you can buy it!

VZ 334: 8 Vegetarian and Vegan Thanksgiving Main Dish Ideas Nov 10, 2019

Well just like that, we’re already into the November and Thanksgiving is just around the corner. I’ve mentioned in the past that Larissa and I tend to be “just the sides’ type of gals. This year though, we’re looking for a genuine vegetarian or vegan “main dish” that we can take to our family get together.

Along with some input from our ever-helpful Peas and Carrots Society (Private Facebook group), we’re going to share 8 of our top contenders!

VZ 333: These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things (2019) Nov 03, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’re discussing a few (10) of our favorite things, just in time for Christmas!

Not all of the items or services we discuss today are necessarily vegetarian/ vegan related but these are things that have made life a little easier, or a little more fun for us this year.

VZ 332: Epic Vegan with Dustin Harder of The Vegan Roadie Oct 27, 2019

Dustin Harder is the host and creator of the original vegan travel culinary series The Vegan Roadie.

When not traveling, he works as a personal chef, recipe developer, and culinary instructor.

As a graduate of the Natural Gourmet Institute, Dustin has been featured in such publications as Eating Well, VegNews, Vegan Lifestyle Magazine, and Paste Magazine. His second book, Epic Vegan, is the follow-up to The Simply Vegan Cookbook recently making the Forbes list of "Best Vegan Cookbooks".

VZ 331: All About Pumpkin! Health Benefits and, of Course, Pumpkin Recipes! Oct 20, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be joining in on the pumpkin fun and talking all about pumpkins!

We’ll be share what pumpkin is, some health benefits of pumpkin, and yes, of course we’ll be sharing some recipes!

VZ 330: 20 Years of HappyCow with Eric Brent Oct 13, 2019

Our guest today is Eric Brent, the founder and director of HappyCow.

HappyCow was founded in 1999 as a public service to assist travelers and people everywhere find plant-based / vegan options and healthy food. It’s vegan-run, from a vegan perspective, and staffed by vegans and vegetarians.

Today, their online community has grown to include members from around the world who are passionate about the vegan lifestyle as a healthy, compassionate, and environmentally sustainable way of living.

More than simply a restaurant and health food store guide, HappyCow is an ever-evolving online hub that serves millions worldwide each month.

VZ 329: The Forest Feast Mediterranean with Erin Gleeson Oct 06, 2019

For years, The Forest Feast blog readers have been transported to Erin Gleeon’s picturesque cabin in the woods through her stunning photography of magic gatherings and vibrant vegetarian cooking.

Her latest book, The Forest Feast: Mediterranean will transport readers to France, Portugal, Spain, and Italy via recipes she created that were inspired by her trip to this part of the Mediterranean.

VZ 328: Taste Tests: The Science of Simple Healthier Desserts with Samita Sarkar Sep 29, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we interview Samita Sarkar author of Taste Tests, The Science of Simple Healthier Desserts.

The book contains over 50 easy-to-follow, completely vegan recipes to help people who are new to dessert preparation get a grasp on the basics. This includes cakes, cupcakes, cookies, and even homemade icing.

Because baking is just as much a science as an art, the book also includes short, digestible scientific tidbits explaining the chemistry of the recipes and the ingredients, and why they react the way that they do.

VZ 327: Ask Us Anything! Sep 22, 2019

We LOVE talking to our community whether it be through emails, voice messages, in the Pareon forum, or in the Facebook group, The Peas and Carrots Society.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we asked you to ask us anything and you did so today, we’re answering your questions.

VZ 326: Your Guide to Baking Homemade Bread Sep 15, 2019

Fall is just around the corner — the first day of Fall is September 23. This is really our FAVORITE season. It’s time for football and cooler weather, both of which mean it’s time to bake!

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about baking bread. Specifically, we’ll discuss:

-The benefits of making your own bread versus buying

-Essential ingredients

-Supplies

VZ 325: 8 of the Best Cruelty Free AND Vegan Deodorants Sep 08, 2019

Have we mentioned it’s hot outside? Here in south Texas we are in the triple digits--just stepping outside for a few minutes can really get the sweat going!

The last thing you want when you’re hot and sweaty (besides a broken AC) is for your deodorant to quit working.

Another thing you don’t want is to choose a deodorant brand that uses animals in testing their products.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about 8 of the BEST cruelty-free AND vegan deodorants that have been either tried by us OR recommended by our trusted closed Facebook community, the Peas and Carrots Society.

VZ 324: Nikki Turner-Parker of Aloe-Me Holistic Health Sep 01, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we are pleased to speak with Niki Turner-Parker, the co-founder Aloe-Me Holistic Health.

Together with her wife and business partner, Allie (Turner-Parker), they formed Aloe-Me with the goal of creating a worldwide platform for connecting people who share the common interests of self-care and holistic health.

Their desire is to empower people through education and experiences, based on the principle, "when you start with healing yourself, then you can heal the world."

VZ 323: 7 Powerful Pantry Organization Tips! Aug 25, 2019

In episode 319 of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we gave you 7 Awesome refrigerator organization tips to help you stop wasting food.

In today’s episode, we’re going to share 7 tips for getting your pantry in shape. Why? Because throwing away food hurts! Not only does it waste money but it also hurts the planet as the waste takes up room in landfills.

So let’s get organizing!

VZ 322: What You May Not Know About Your Dog Car Harness Aug 18, 2019

In today’s episode of the VZ podcast, we’re going to talk about car restraints for your dog. This was an eye-opening episode for us so even if you don’t have your own dog, chances are you know someone who does so the information we’re going to share today may help you save the life of a beloved pet.

VZ 321: Goodbye Autoimmune Disease with Dr. Brooke Goldner Aug 11, 2019

Dr. Brooke Goldner cured herself of Lupus and in this interview, she shares how she did it. Follow her 6 steps for healing to improve your own health!

VZ 320: The Whole Enchilada! Your Guide to Vegetarian Enchiladas Aug 04, 2019

If you’ve listened to the show for a while, it’s no secret that Vickie’s favorite type of food is Mexican food. With her Mexican and Central American grandparents, she grew up eating some wonderful Latin food.

Luckily, Latin food is VERY adaptable to a vegetarian (and vegan!) cuisine! Enchiladas are especially versatile because so many vegetables make delicious fillings and there are multiple options for sauces.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to focus on preparing some awesome vegetarian enchiladas, all of which can be easily adapted to vegan if that’s your preference.

VZ 319: 7 Awesome Refrigerator Organization Tips to Help You Stop Wasting Food Jul 28, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to discuss 8 Awesome Tips to help you organize your fridge in a way that helps you reduce waste and avoid throwing your money down the drain.

VZ 318: 8 Tips for Easy Grilled Vegetables Jul 21, 2019

Summertime, and the livin’ is easy...and the grilling can be too! Being plant-based doesn’t mean missing out on amazing flavorful grilled foods--in fact, there are more vegetables (and fruits!) to throw on the grill than there are meats.

In this episode of the podcast we’ll share eight tips for making easy grilled vegetables that will take your summer meals from so-so to sizzling.

VZ 317: Your Guide to Vegan Eggs and Egg Replacers Jul 14, 2019

Since vegans are folks who do not eat any animal products whatsoever, eggs are something that are not on the menu. If you’re thinking, “But wait! I know I’ve seen vegan egg dishes and baked goods! What do vegans use instead of eggs?”

In this episode of the vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to cover that question and also talk about some popular egg replacements. Now, you don’t have to be a vegan to appreciate this episode. Some egg replacers can be a yummier and, in some cases, healthier replacement so even if you use these substitutes every now and then, you may be pleasantly surprised!

And of course, when we have topics such as this, we love to curate some recommendations from the folks in our Peas and Carrots Group (our closed Facebook Group)!

VZ 316: 7 of The Best Vegan AND Cruelty Free Shampoos Jul 07, 2019

As vegan and cruelty-free businesses continue to boom, more mainstream companies are taking notice and beginning to offer more products that are considered vegan and/or cruelty-free.

In this episode, we’re going to focus on shampoos that are vegan AND cruelty-free (and no, they aren’t necessarily the same!). We’ll explain what it means to be vegan AND cruelty-free and also share seven brands that are either used by us or recommended by our ever-wise-and-helpful Peas and Carrots group!

VZ 315: So What Exactly is Malt? Jun 30, 2019

When I say the word, “Malt”, what do you think of? If you’re like most people, you probably think of malted milkshakes, beer, malt liquor, or maybe malted milk balls. I never really thought of malt as a healthy supplement but our guest today is a Registered Dietician who is going to give us the scoop on malt.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we talk to Registered Dietitian, Jilian Greaves in-depth to Jillian about what it is and some of the benefits you can get from incorporating it into your diet.

VZ 314: We All Scream for Vegan Ice Cream! Jun 23, 2019

What do you think of when you think of summer? Being from South Texas, I think of triple digit HEAT! Then I think about ways I can keep cool. Yes, a nice dreamy swimming pool is an awesome way to cool off but a DELICIOUS way to cool off is by enjoying some creamy ice cream!

But we’re not just talking about any old ice cream. We’re talking VEGAN ice cream!

Today on the podcast, we’ll be talking about some of the most popular vegan ice cream brands currently on the market as well as, getting some input from some folks from our closed Facebook Group, the Peas and Carrots Society regarding their favorite brands.

VZ 313: The Rise of Vegan Businesses with Jonny Edwards of Nuzest-USA Jun 16, 2019

Vegan, plant-based, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly businesses have been on the rise in the past few years. When Larissa and I became vegetarians in 2013, there weren’t nearly as many vegan businesses or products. I remember looking for vegan fashion and was very disappointed at the lack of available products.

Flash forward to 2019 and we seem to be in a vegan product and services boom! It’s so encouraging to see new choices popping up in so many different industries.

Today on the show, we are excited to talk to Jonny Edwards, the CEO of one such vegan company, Nuzest-USA. You may recall that we recently partnered with Nuzest-USA because we liked their products and mission VERY much!

In this episode, we talk to Jonny about how he became vegan, how he became CEO of Nuzest-USA, and what trends he sees in vegan businesses.

VZ 312: Imperfect Produce and Meal Prep with Melissa Grove Jun 09, 2019

A few weeks ago, we did a live Facebook video just to chat with folks in the Peas and Carrots Society (our closed Facebook group). One of the participants in that chat, Melissa Grove, mentioned that she uses Imperfect Produce, a fresh produce subscription service that offers perfectly good, although slightly irregular, fruits and vegetables. Because several other group members use Imperfect Produce (and we’ve been wanting to try it), and because the best recommendations for products and services come from our Vegetarian Zen community, we asked Melissa to come on the show to share her Imperfect Produce experience. She’ll also share how she uses the service as an opportunity to get more creative in the kitchen. She also provides some awesome tips for stretching the life of your produce.

VZ 311: World Environment Day Jun 02, 2019

June 5th is World Environment Day, a day designated by the United Nations to spread awareness about our environment and how we can protect it. In this episode of our podcast, we’re going to give a bit of history behind WED, discuss the theme for this year, and also let you know what you can do to get involved.

VZ 310: Talking Chickens with Lindsey White of Chickensmatter.org May 26, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk to Lindsey White of ChickensMatter.org. Lindsey tells her story of moving from a farmer to a chicken rescuer. We’ll get to know some of her rescues and talk about her organization, Chickensmatter.org. Incidentally, this month is also International Respect for Chickens month and we think this interview with Lindsey is a great way to cap off the month!

VZ 309: A Review of What the Health May 19, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to discuss the documentary What the Health, which, like most documentaries on the topic of food and health, tends to ruffle quite a few feathers. We’re going to give a high level overview of the documentary and then talk about some of the arguments on both sides.

VZ 308: 5 Awesome Benefits of Pea Protein May 12, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we’re going to discuss pea protein. We’ve discussed plant-based proteins in past episodes (we’ll have links in the show notes to some of our previous discussions about plant-based proteins) but haven’t really done a “deep-dive” into any of them. Today we’ll take a closer look at what pea protein is, learn about some of its benefits, and share what to look for on the label when selecting a pea protein.

VZ 307: Finding Flexitarian with Harlie Pruder May 05, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we talk to Golden Apple Roundtable member Harlie Pruder about her plant-based journey to Flexitarianism.

VZ 306: Let's Get Cooking with Marly McMillen of Namely Marly! Apr 28, 2019

In today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we are joined by Marly McMillen Beelman who is the founder and creative director of Namely Marly, a blog focused on providing resources for healthy lifestyles, creative living, and healthy vegan recipes.

Marly just released a book earlier this month called The Everything Vegan Meal Prep Cookbook.

VZ 305: Birding 101 with Larissa Apr 21, 2019

You don’t have to be a Bird Nerd to get outdoors and do a little bird watching on National Go Birding Day (April 27). Even if you’ve never cracked open a field guide to identify a bird or ventured out to look at birds beyond your own backyard, we’ve got some basic information to get you started.

VZ 304: Reiki and Radical Beauty with Stacy Ramirez Apr 14, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we chat with Stacy Ramirez who is a member of our Golden Apple Roundtable, the folks who support us through Patreon.

We talk about being a "weekday vegetarian", her Reiki coaching business, and her take-aways from the book Radical Beauty by Deepak Chopra and Kimberly Snyder.

VZ 303: Why You Won't Hear Us Bashing Ex-Vegans Apr 07, 2019

It seems that there has been a recent exodus of Vegan Youtube personalities and social media influencers and the call-out culture is alive and well. Besides the rude and sometimes threatening comments there are a few still plant-based Youtubers who have taken to the internet to post their own videos calling out these ex-vegans.

We’re not going to name names because that’s not how we roll and we don’t want to become part of the call-out culture, but we do want to take this opportunity to emphasize our philosophy at Vegetarian Zen and explain why you won’t ever hear us call out ex-vegans.

VZ 302: In the Garden with Augie Sanchez (aka The Unkempt Gardener) Mar 31, 2019

In this episode of our podcast, we are very pleased to share an interview with someone who has been a friend of mine for 10 years or so now. I met him while working in my corporate job and we’ve stayed in touch even after he left.

His name is Augie Sanchez and he’s also a gardener. I’ve always known that Augie loved to garden but didn’t realize how much of a passion this was for him until reading his interview in Burpee’s Blog which featured him as the Gardener for the Month for March 2019.

Today we’re going to talk to Augie about how he developed his love for gardening, some of his eco-friendly gardening practices, and what advice he gives to beginning gardeners.

VZ 301: 5 Awesome Health Benefits of Potatoes Mar 24, 2019

There are several foods that cause a lot of controversy regarding their overall healthiness. One of these foods is the potato. If you Google “Are Potatoes Good for You?” you’ll find plenty of articles arguing each side of the issue, all citing studies in defense of their perspective.

Larissa and I believe moderation is key in most things, so in today’s episode of the podcast we won’t address the “great potato controversy.” Instead we’ll just talk about some of the known benefits of incorporating potatoes into your diet.

VZ 300: Meal Subscription Boxes with Danielle Fried Mar 17, 2019

Danielle Fried (who we affectionately call “Listener Zero”) has been a friend of ours for almost as long as we’ve been podcasting. She became a vegetarian very close to the same time we did (about 6 years ago) and was one of the first people to reach out to us commenting on the podcast.

Very similar to us, Danielle became decided to give vegetarianism a try after watching Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead and Vedgucated along with a couple of other documentaries.

Danielle is a very active member of our Peas and Carrots Society offering friendly advice to fellow members.

In this very special episode of our podcast, we talk to Danielle to get to know her a little more and to hear her recent experience with meal kit delivery services and their plant-based options.

Ep 299: How to Marinate Tofu Mar 10, 2019

Back in episode 8 of the podcast, we did an episode titled “All About Tofu” where we talked about what it was and gave a few tips for cooking with it.

Today’s episode was inspired by our Peas and Carrots member Ron Kaufman-Schmick who stated in the group, “Looking for new ways to marinate tofu please…..annnnnd go!”

As usual, our fellow Peas and Carrots members jumped in with some great ideas! In today’s episode of the podcast, we’re going to share some of their suggestions along with some tips for ensuring that your tofu is the best that it can be!

VZ 298: The Art of Intarsia with Sherri Lewis of Sundog Wood Murals Mar 03, 2019

We’ve made it a goal for 2019 to share more interviews with members of our Vegetarian Zen community. This week we are happy to welcome artist Sherri Lewis to share her wonderful art and insights with us. Sherri is a woodworker who creates amazing pieces using a technique called intarsia (she’ll explain all about it shortly).

Her art is inspired by a truly worthy cause...the plight of wild elephants and rhinos, whose numbers are dwindling quickly due to poaching. We talk to Sherri about her love of woodworking, her commitment to protecting these wild animals, and the techniques of creating her pieces (including using reclaimed/upcycled wood!).

VZ 297: The Konmari Method for Your Home and Life Feb 24, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about how Marie Kondo’s method of organization, called the Konmari Method, can help you declutter your home and your life!

VZ 296: What To Do If You Find a Stray Cat or Dog Feb 17, 2019

Several weeks ago, we rescued a stray dog at a park near our neighborhood. It was a stressful experience that thankfully had a happy ending, and it led us to want to have this discussion on the podcast about how to best help strays like the sweet boy we helped. In this episode, we’ll share more about our experience and give you some steps to take should you encounter a stray dog or cat.

VZ 295: 6 Ways to Celebrate a Cruelty-Free & Environmentally Friendly Valentine’s Day Feb 10, 2019

Despite its theme of love, Valentine’s Day can be a high-pressure holiday. What to give your spouse of 30 years “who has everything”? You’ve only been on two dates with someone—do you give them a gift? Should you declare your undying love for your secret crush??

Being a cruelty-free, eco-conscious shopper can make preparing to celebrate this day of love even more stressful. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll share some tips and ideas for finding animal- and planet-friendly Valentine’s Day gifts.

VZ 294: Buddha Bowls - What They Are and Why You Need Them In Your Life Feb 03, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about Buddha bowls. We're going to discuss what they are, 3 reasons why you need these in your life, how to make one, and some tips for making your bowl the best it can be!

VZ 293: Vegan Pop-Up Tailgate Party with Kimberly Barnes of Might Be Vegan Jan 27, 2019

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast started out as one thing, which was going to be about vegan and vegetarian tailgate party recipes but took a bit of a detour after I shared a news article from VegNews about a Free Vegan Tailgating Party that will be launching for the Super Bowl.

Someone, who I didn’t know at the time reached out to me on Twitter adding some more info about this event and it turns out, this person was is actually the organizer and host of the entire party!

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk to Kimberly Barnes, who is a vegan chef and founder of the site Might Be Vegan.

VZ 292: 6 Things We’ve Learned in 6 Years of Being Vegetarian Jan 20, 2019

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to share our top 6 things we’ve learned in 6 years of being vegetarian.

VZ 291: How the Call-Out Culture Is Hurting the Plant-Based Community Jan 13, 2019

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast might be a bit controversial but we think it’s important to discuss this topic because it seems that our world is the most divided it’s been on so many topics and veganism and vegetarianism are no exception.

With a record number of people signing up for Veganuary giving veganism a try, it’s more important than ever that we help positively promote the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle but unfortunately, we’ve seen a lot of shaming and finger pointing out there which definitely doesn’t help the cause.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we’re going to talk about heathy and unhealthy behaviors within the plant-based community and discuss why the battle between some vegans, vegetarians, and reducetarians is one where everyone loses including the animals.

VZ 290: Vegetarian Sandwich Recipes for the PBJ Weary Jan 06, 2019

Last month, Peas and Carrots Member Annie Sargent asked the group to share their favorite vegan sandwich recipe stating that she needed some inspiration. Indeed, sandwiches are one of those types of foods that can get boring very quickly if you’re having the same sandwich over and over again.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’re going to share some Vegetarian Sandwich ideas for the PBJ weary.

VZ 289: 7 Blackstrap Molasses Benefits and Some Recipes! Dec 30, 2018

Blackstrap Molasses is something we first talked about waaay back in episode 33 of the podcast where we talked about reasons to give up dairy and then again in episode VZ 149: The Importance of Iron (and How to Get Enough When You Follow a Plant-Based Diet).

Well this episode is 100% dedicated to blackstrap molasses! We’re going to discuss some of the benefits and share a few recipes.

Check out the show notes for more info and links!

VZ 288: 8 Awesome Vegan Baking Tips and Some Yummy Recipes! Dec 23, 2018

Tis the season for baking! Many folks love to bake warm yummy goodies in the colder winter months so we thought this would be a perfect time to share some awesome vegan baking tips provided by our Peas and Carrots closed Facebook Group!

VZ 287: What is Ayurveda? Interview with Ayurvedic Wellness Practitioner Shivani Gupta Dec 16, 2018

In this episode of the podcast, we interview Shivani Gupta. Shivani Gupta, is an Ayurvedic wellness practitioner and serial eco- and social -entrepreneur. Born and raised in Houston, Texas to a loving traditional Indian family, she first learned about healthy eating, organic foods, and effective supplements from her father, who brought ancient Ayurvedic practices into the family’s daily lives. Shivani took this knowledge to the next level obtaining a Ph.D. in Ayurvedic studies. She is the founder of Fusionary Formulas and author of Conscious Pregnancy.

VZ 286: Are Fritos Vegan? (And Other Surprisingly Vegan & Non-Vegan Foods) Dec 09, 2018

Back in Episode 48 of the podcast, we did an episode called “Foods that Seem Vegetarian But Are Not. Episode 48 was recorded back in 2014 so we wanted to take another look at this topic since it sparked a great conversation in our closed Facebook group (Whaddup Peas and Carrots!) about what foods seem like they should be vegan or vegetarian but aren’t.

In today’s episode of the podcast, we’re going to play a game I’m going to mention a food and we’ll let you guess whether it’s vegan/ vegetarian-friendly or not. Just a note, “vegan or vegetarian friendly” doesn’t mean ‘healthy” but it just means that the food doesn’t contain ingredients that would exclude them from being vegan or vegetarian.

VZ 285: The Mise En Place Mindset Dec 02, 2018

In the episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we’re going to take a deeper look at the Mise En Pace mindset and talk about its implications not only for cooking but for your life!

VZ 284: 7 Amazing Benefits of Gratitude Nov 25, 2018

A few days ago, those of us in the United States celebrated Thanksgiving which is a day of friends, family, and good eats. It’s also a day to pay special thanks to the blessings in our lives. While having a day dedicated to being thankful for all of the good things in our lives is great, living a life of gratitude can provide us with some amazing benefits.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to share 7 Amazing Benefits of Gratitude and also provide 3 simple tips for creating a gratitude practice.

VZ 283: Talking Turkey with Gene Baur of Farm Sanctuary Nov 18, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we're joined by Gene Baur, President and Co-Founder of Farm Sanctuary. Gene is a National Best-Selling author and a pioneering animal activist. We talk animal activism, healthy and unhealthy behaviors within the plant-based community, and about Farm Sanctuary's Adopt-A-Turkey program.

VZ 282: 8 Simple Vegan Turkey Substitutes That Don't Suck Nov 11, 2018

Yes, the holiday season is officially upon us! Being meat-free doesn’t mean that you need to miss out on amazing foods. In fact, there are so many meatless alternatives to the traditional “holiday roast” these days that you might even find your carnivore friends envying what is on your plate!

In this episode we share 8 simple vegan turkey substitutes that don't suck!

VZ 281: 10 Easy, Powerful Food Combining Tips That Actually Boost Your Health Nov 04, 2018

If you lead a healthy plant-based lifestyle, you know that there are a TON of amazing foods with so many different health benefits but did you know that there is a way to make those foods healthier than they already are by pairing them with another awesome food?

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we’re going to talk about food combing and share 10 powerful food pairings to help you boost your health!

VZ 280: Health Benefits Chickpeas and Vegan Chickpea Recipes That Aren’t Hummus! Oct 28, 2018

When most people think of chickpeas, they think of hummus which is something many of us are familiar with. They also think of healthy food but do you know what the specific health benefits of chickpeas are?

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to discuss chickpeas. More specifically, we’ll discuss what they are, what are the health benefits of chickpeas and we’ll also share some chickpea recipes brought to you by our Peas and Carrots Society.

VZ 279: Cage Free vs. Free Range vs Pasture-Raised Eggs : Demystifying Egg Labeling Oct 21, 2018

As we’ve discussed many times on the show, food labeling needs a BIG-TIME redo. Going to the grocery store and trying to decipher labels can become an exercise in frustration since many companies intentionally try to mislead us, the consumer. Egg labeling is no exception.

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to help demystify some of those confusing egg labels. We’ll discuss, cage-free, free-range, and pasture-raised eggs and provide you with some tips for choosing eggs that are humane to the animals as well as kind to the planet.

VZ 278: Holistic Healing Delicious Healing with Dr. Tumi Johnson Oct 14, 2018

Dr. Tumi Johnson is an Integrative Holistic medical doctor. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and is also a diplomat of the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine.

VZ 277: CBD Oil - What is It? Is it Legal? What are the Benefits and the Risks? Oct 07, 2018

CBD Oil is something I had heard about but hadn’t really done much research into until we discovered our dog, Cosmo, is having some issues with his leg. The issue may require surgery so as with anything, Larissa and I do a lot of research and due diligence before we make any big decisions especially when it comes to the well-being of our furry kids.

I wrote a post on Facebook asking my friends and family for veterinarians they would recommend to provide us with a second opinion and a could of friends asked me if I had looked into CBD oil to help Cosmo with his pain.

Since I didn’t know much about it, I started to research it further and discovered that many people are using CBD oil for a variety of reasons.

In this episode of our podcast, we discuss CBD Oi. More specifically, what is it, how it works, how it’s used, is it legal, and potential risks for humans and pets.

Please always consult your doctor or vet before taking or administering any supplements!

VZ 276: Fake Meats Are Making Some People Very Angry! Here’s Why Sep 30, 2018

Fake meat, yes it actually makes some people very angry! Why? I was really curious about this after having read some angry comments on a Tweet where someone shared a picture of a vegan brisket. While most of those comments were simply irrational people just looking to argue, I really wanted to know why something as simple as a fake brisket could spark such outrage. In this episode, we’ll share four primary criticisms along with a few speaking points should you ever find yourself in need of explaining fake meat to anyone….not that you need to!

VZ 275: The Rise of Vegan Athletes Sep 23, 2018

Recently there seems to be an explosion of the number of vegan athletes who are grabbing headlines by crushing the competition in their respective sports and who cite their vegan plant-based diets as a significant competitive edge. In this episode of our podcast, we’re going to discuss this trend of athletes going vegan, some tips for how they ensure a balanced diet, and we will also provide you with a few resources to get you motivated with respect to eating foods that fuel your body for sports or just help keep you active.

VZ 274: 5 Big Take-Aways from the Forks Over Knives Cooking Course Sep 16, 2018

In today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we’re going to provide you with a high level summary of the Forks Over Knives online course and how it’s broken down (in case you missed episode 265) and I’m also going to discuss my top 5 take-aways from the course.

VZ 273: Vegan Clothing – The Latest and Greatest! Sep 09, 2018

When Larissa and I first became vegetarians 5 years ago, vegan clothing was VERY different than it is today. What we mean by that is that the offerings were very slim and quite honestly, not that attractive. Back in episode 180 of our podcast (Nov 2016) we published an episode titled, “All about Vegan Fashion”. However over the years, much like the trends we’ve seen in plant-based foods, there is a growing demand for clothing, furniture, and other products that are made without any animal products. That means, a LOT has changed since November 2016!

In today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss:

What is “Vegan clothing” for those who may be new to this concept
Some reasons why vegan clothing in fashion is on the rise today.
Some brands that are exclusively vegan or have vegan offerings.

VZ 272: 10 Tips for Better Meal Planning Sep 02, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we’re going to share 10 meal planning tips that can help you stay on target with your health and financial goal.

VZ 271: IBS and the Low FODMAP Diet for Vegans and Vegetarians Aug 26, 2018

IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) can but challenging enough to manage in itself but as a vegan or vegetarian it can be even more challenging. In this episode, we discuss IBS, why IBS can be particularly challenging for vegans and vegetarians, and how an approach called the low FODMAP plan can help you manage IBS.In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we discuss the Low FODMAP Plan for Vegans and Vegetarians with IBS.

VZ 270: Vegan Trader Joe’s Aug 19, 2018

Trader Joe's is a popular store for many folks within our Vegetarian Zen community. Why? Maybe it's because of the great Vegan Trader Joe's offerings!

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, Larissa and I share our very first legit visit to Trader Joe’s. We say “legit” because we were on a mission to do our weekly shopping exclusively from Trader Joe's armed with a list of Vegan and Vegetarian Trader Joe’s must-try’s from our Peas and Carrots Society. What did we try? Find out in this episode!

VZ 269: 8 Things You Can Do To Help Animals in Need in Your Community Aug 12, 2018

In today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to discuss 8 ways that you can help animals in your community.

VZ 268: The Peas and Carrots Society Presents – 5 Favorite Vegan Cookbooks Aug 05, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, The Peas and Carrots Society present, 5 of their Favorite Veg Cookbooks!

VZ 267: 9 Ways to Combat Stress and Anxiety Naturally Jul 29, 2018

VZ 266: Rise of the Non Dairy Milk Industry and What You Can Do to Keep it Going! Jul 25, 2018

Back in episode 78 we did our first episode on plant milks titled “The Delicious World of Plant Milks” and in a recent episode 253, we talked specifically about peanut milk. In today’s episode, we are going to discuss the plant based milk industry overall and where it seems to be headed. Hint: We think you are going to like where it’s headed! As an added bonus, we’re going to give you 5 tips to help contribute to this growing trend of reducing dairy in your diet.

VZ 265: Forks Over Knives Course – How is Vickie Doing? Jul 25, 2018

In early June, I started a Forks Over Knives Cooking Course in an effort to get more creative and knowledgeable in the kitchen. Not having enough variety in our meals has caused Larissa and I to drift back into some old bad habits like relying on a lot of processed foods and even fast food. I wanted to take charge of finding ways to come up with different meals while learning and enjoying the process.

VZ 264: Eating Vegan at the Ballpark Jul 08, 2018

Many Americans enjoy this time of year because it means BASEBALL. While we don’t follow a team, we do love getting outside and enjoying the activity of being at a ballpark with people, watching sports, and eating some good food. Before we became vegetarians, we ate burgers, hot dogs, corn dogs, and things of […]

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VZ 263: Tips for Affordable Plant Based Eating Jul 01, 2018

When we hit a financial rough patch it’s easy to cut back on non-essential expenses like extra cable channels or dining out. But sometimes that’s not enough and budgeting enough for basic food expenses can become a challenge. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll share some tips for affordable plant based […]

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VZ 262: Essential Oils 101 Jun 24, 2018

We have recently started including aromatherapy using essential oils as part of our monthly massages and we both love it. In this episode of the Vegetarian Podcast, we discuss the basics of essential oils–what they as well as some benefits and risks associated with their use. Thanks for tuning in to this episode […]

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VZ 261: Are You Really Hungry…Or Just Bored? Jun 17, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we springboard off of a post in our closed Facebook group, The Peas and Carrots Society, about how to know if you’re eating because you’re hungry, or if you’re just bored. We share some information about how to distinguish actual physical hunger from the desire to […]

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VZ 260: Cruelty-Free Pet Products Jun 10, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be shedding (get it, shedding??!) some light on cruelty-free pet products, including food, treats, grooming products, and flea medicines. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider […]

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VZ 259: Air Frying – Is It Awesome or Just a Bunch of Hot Air? Jun 03, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we investigate air frying. Wait…what? How can you fry something without a ton of oil? And even if you can, how many vegetarian things can you actually fry? You’re about to find out! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If […]

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VZ 258: Let’s Wok and Roll (Cooking with a Wok) May 27, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’re all set to wok and roll! (see what we did there?) We’ll be discussing all things wok cooking, including the types of woks, necessary tools, what you can do in a wok besides stir frying, and best practices for making great food in a wok. […]

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VZ 257: Dr. Greger’s Daily Dozen Challenge May 20, 2018

In early May, Larissa and I challenged the members of our closed Facebook Group, The Peas and Carrots Society to Dr. Michael Greger’s Daily Dozen Challenge. You might remember that Dr. Michael Greger is the founder of Nutritionfacts.org, which is a website we dedicated an entire episode of our podcast to because we thought it was […]

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VZ 256: Deodorant – The Good, the Bad, and the Homemade May 13, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share some helpful information about commercial versus homemade deodorants (and how to make your own). Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and […]

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VZ 255: Animal Abuse Legislation in the U.S. May 06, 2018

While our core mission here at VZ is to promote the positive aspects of living a healthier plant-based lifestyle, we also want to ensure we are passing along to you any opportunities you have, as a citizen of your country, to have your voice heard on behalf of animals. In this episode of the […]

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VZ 254: Some Facts About Foodborne Illness Apr 29, 2018

Widespread outbreaks of illness resulting from contaminated produce have been in the news a lot recently. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll present some facts about foodborne illness, including how it happens and how you can lower your risk of getting sick. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of […]

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VZ 253: Peanut Milk Apr 22, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be talking about a new nut milk that’s poised to become a staple in plant-based households…PEANUT MILK! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us […]

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VZ 252: 5 Years Later — Revisiting the Mission of Vegetarian Zen Apr 15, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we revisit the mission of Vegetarian Zen. We’ve been podcasting now for 5 years on a weekly basis and we have learned a LOT through our own research and through our community members and listeners. Since we just rounded episode 250, and have seen our community […]

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VZ 251: What’s the Deal with Palm Oil? Apr 08, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss palm oil–what it is, how palm oil production is harming our planet, and some ways you can help mitigate that damage. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please […]

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VZ 250: Rice! (Types, Health Benefits, & More) Apr 01, 2018

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about rice. We discuss some of the most common types of rice (white, brown, red, and black), the health benefits of eating rice, and also some of the warnings about eating rice (especially regarding its arsenic content). We also share some tips for reducing the […]

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VZ 249: Healing Properties of Herbs Mar 25, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be sharing some information about the healing properties of herbs. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note that some of […]

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VZ 248: Tips for Oil-Free Cooking Mar 18, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we provide some tips for oil-free cooking. What this episode is NOT: because we are not trained in nutrition or in the medical industry, our goal is not to convince you to either use oil in your cooking or not use it. This is something you […]

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VZ 247: Is a Ketogenic Diet Possible for Vegetarians and Vegans? Mar 11, 2018

In some recent episodes, we’ve talked about how a couple of the popular diet plans, namely Paleo and Whole30, fit with a vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based lifestyle. (To hear those episodes, check out VZ 245: Can I Do the Whole30 Program as a Vegetarian or Vegan? and VZ 241: Is a Pegan Lifestyle Right […]

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VZ 246: The Facts About Nutritionfacts.org Mar 04, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about the health website nutritionfacts.org, including information about its founder, Dr. Michael Greger, and his mission in creating the site. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, […]

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VZ 245: Can I do the Whole30 Program as a Vegetarian or Vegan? Feb 25, 2018

In today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we consider whether the Whole30 Program is doable as a vegetarian or vegan. We explain the basics of Whole30 including some things you can take away from the program even if you decide it’s not for you. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian […]

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VZ 244: What Happens to Your Body When You Adopt a Plant Based Lifestyle? Feb 18, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss some of the changes that can occur in the body as a result of ditching animal products in favor of healthy whole plant foods. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast […]

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VZ 243: Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly Hangover Remedies Feb 11, 2018

While moderation in most things is always a good idea, every now and then we overindulge. One of the areas in which we can overdo it at times is the consumption of adult beverages. Many cures for hangovers call for greasy meat-based foods such as burgers or here, in South Texas, menudo or barbacoa […]

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VZ 242: Fresh Ideas for Vegetarian and Vegan Lunches Feb 04, 2018

Having a healthy lunch at work or school can be difficult, particularly if you don’t have access to a microwave. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share some ideas for vegetarian and vegan lunches that don’t require a microwave. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! […]

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VZ 241: Is a Pegan Lifestyle Right for You? Jan 28, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be learning together about a new “mashup” eating style called Peganism. We discuss what it means to be pegan and give our opinions on this relatively new lifestyle. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in […]

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VZ 240: Being Vegetarian or Vegan in a Non-Veg Household Jan 21, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share tips for being a vegetarian or vegan when other members of your household are not. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and […]

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VZ 239: Battling Sugar Addiction Jan 14, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss sugar addiction…a very real issue that plagues many people. We talk about how and why sugar is addictive, and some ways to help overcome this powerful problem. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in […]

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VZ 238: Freezer Cooking Jan 07, 2018

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll explore the world of freezer cooking, a great way to navigate busy lives and still eat healthy. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a […]

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VZ 237: Health Goals for the New Year Dec 31, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be focused on health goals for 2018—both ours and those shared with us by members of the Peas and Carrots Society. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, […]

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VZ 236: Cheap, Quick, and Healthy Vegan Meals Dec 24, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share some ideas for cheap, quick, and healthy vegan meals. The topic was inspired by a discussion in our closed Facebook group, the Peas & Carrots Society. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in […]

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VZ 235: Counteracting the Effects of Eating Too Much Sugar Dec 17, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll review what happens to the body after eating too much sugar, and offer some suggestions to mitigate the sugar crash that follows. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on […]

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VZ 234: The Rise in Veganism and Vegetarianism – 9 Trends Dec 10, 2017

A recent article on plantbasednews.org discussed some inspiring stats and trends that prove veganism is going mainstream. Even in just the 5 years since becoming vegetarians, we have seen a lot of encouraging trends that demonstrate this whole veg thing seems to be on the rise. In today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, […]

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VZ 233: Avocados Dec 03, 2017

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about avocados! If you’ve been listening for a while, you know that Larissa doesn’t care for avocados but, she knows most of our VZ community is crazy about them as am I. In today’s episode we’re going to give you a few avocado fun facts, […]

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VZ 232: Tips for Giving Up Dairy Nov 26, 2017

For those new to the veg lingo, vegetarians consume some animal products whereas vegans avoid all foods and products made of or by animals (including honey). When we started out on our plant-based journey, we decided to become lacto-ovo vegetarians rather than vegans because we weren’t quite ready to give up dairy and eggs. As […]

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VZ 231: Do I Need to Add a Protein Powder to My Diet? Nov 19, 2017

Most of us who are vegetarian or vegan have, at some point, been asked the question, “But where do you get your protein?” In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about protein–how much we really need and some great non-animal protein sources. If you do want to use a supplement, we […]

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VZ 230: 5 Things We Wish We’d Known As New Vegetarians Nov 12, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share our top 5 things we wish we’d known as new vegetarians. We also posed this question to the members of the Peas and Carrots Society, and we’ll share some of their responses as well. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the […]

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VZ 229: Prepare Now for Holiday Cooking and Entertaining Nov 05, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share some tips for getting a jump on holiday entertaining, whether you’re hosting, attending parties hosted by others, or making the rounds of work, school, and community potlucks. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value […]

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VZ 228: Kombucha Oct 29, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll talk about fermented tea, commonly called kombucha. We’ll talk possible benefits, store-bought versus homemade, and how to make your own, plus share insights from the Peas and Carrots Society. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find […]

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VZ 227: Ch-Ch-Ch- Chia Seeds! Oct 22, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we learn about the incredible versatility and nutritional value of chia seeds (proving once and for all that they should be eaten and not sprouted in goofy-looking terracotta pots). Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in […]

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VZ 226: To Cook or Not to Cook? Hint: Some Vegetables Are More Nutritious Cooked! Oct 15, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss why some vegetables are more nutritious cooked. We share some tips for retaining nutrients when cooking, and some factors to consider when deciding whether to cook veggies or eat them raw. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! […]

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VZ 225: Vegetarian and Vegan YouTube Channels Oct 08, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be taking a look at some of the awesome vegetarian and vegan YouTube channels out there, as recommended by members of the Peas and Carrots Society. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our […]

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VZ 224: Soup — Yes, It CAN Be a Meal! Oct 01, 2017

Fall is almost officially here, and Fall is soup season! In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share tips for creating delicious plant-based soup. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a […]

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VZ 223: Helping Kids Make Healthy Choices Sep 24, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share some tips for helping kids make healthy choices for themselves. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note that […]

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VZ 222: Watch Out for Food Fraud Sep 17, 2017

According to Michigan State University’s Food Fraud Initiative, food fraud is “a collective term used to encompass the deliberate and intentional substitution, addition, tampering, or misrepresentation of food, food ingredients, or food packaging; or false or misleading statements made about a product, for economic gain.” There’s a database that keeps track of thousands of […]

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VZ 221: Other Uses for Your Rice Cooker Sep 10, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share some tasty ways to get the most out of an appliance that most people consider to be single-use: the rice cooker. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on […]

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VZ 220: Exercise Isn’t an All-or-Nothing Proposition Sep 03, 2017

We’ve always maintained that living a plant-based lifestyle shouldn’t be an all-or-nothing thing. It’s better to have a meatless Monday every week and make small changes at other times than to do nothing, right? Well, the same holds true for exercise. Too often, a fixed all-or-nothing mindset prevents us from getting the exercise our […]

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VZ 219: The College Vegetarian Aug 27, 2017

It’s almost time for back-to-school. In past episodes and blog posts we’ve talked about lunch and snack ideas for younger kids; in this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll focus on being a college vegetarian or vegan. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find […]

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VZ 218: Vegetarian and Vegan Camping Foods Aug 20, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll demystify camping as a vegetarian or vegan. This has been a pretty popular topic in the Peas and Carrots Society this summer, so we’ll be sharing some tips and ideas from members for vegetarian and vegan camping foods. Thanks for tuning in to this episode […]

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VZ 217: Spotlight on the Peas and Carrots Society — Talking Yoga with Chris Bishop Aug 13, 2017

Over the past couple of years our Facebook group, the Peas and Carrots Society, has grown into a vibrant, engaged community of amazing people. We’ve had so many interesting and inspiring discussions with members within the group, and we thought it would be fun to have some of those discussions on the podcast! In […]

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VZ 216: Stay Super-Charged with These Energy-Boosting Foods Aug 06, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we sharing some foods that will help to keep you energized throughout your busy day. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and […]

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VZ 215: Meal Subscription Services Jul 30, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share some information about the meal delivery services that are becoming more and more popular. We discuss some pros and cons, talk about several services by name, and share some feedback from the Peas and Carrots Society. Thanks for tuning in to this episode […]

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VZ 214: Switching to Natural Beauty Products Jul 23, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be sharing some tips for making the switch to natural beauty products. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please […]

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VZ 213: Follow a Plant-Based Diet Without Feeling Hungry Jul 16, 2017

A member of our closed Facebook group, The Peas and Carrots Society, asked for tips to help her follow a plant-based diet without feeling hungry. Our members responded with some really great suggestions, which we’ll share in this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the […]

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VZ 212: Cauliflower: The Other Meat Substitute Jul 09, 2017

We’ve been seeing a lot of recipes pop up around the internet for cauliflower. It’s kind of weird…but it prompted us to do this topic. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about cauliflower, the other meat substitute. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! […]

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VZ 211: Homemade Frozen Treats Jul 02, 2017

Summer is here (at least in our hemisphere!) and that means it’s time for some cool, healthy refreshment. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we sharing some ideas for homemade frozen treats. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast […]

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VZ 210: Vegan Sushi Jun 25, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we learn about vegan sushi and vegetarian sushi and share tips for creating delicious sushi at home. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a […]

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VZ 209: Interview with Andy Hayes of Plum Deluxe Jun 18, 2017

Recently, we received an email from Andy Hayes, the owner of a loose-leaf tea company in Portland, Oregon called Plum Deluxe. We were excited to hear that he learned about us from a customer, and are very happy to have him on the podcast to share the mission of his company (and it’s a […]

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VZ 208: Delicious Uses for Hummus (Beyond Dipping Veggies) Jun 11, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast, we’ll be talking about tasty ways to use hummus…because there are way more interesting uses for it than just dipping veggies and pita! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on […]

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VZ 207: Dietary Supplements 101 Jun 04, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss the basics of dietary supplements. We don’t delve into which supplements vegans need, or how to know if you should take a supplement; we do talk about what supplements are, what information is contained on supplement bottle labels, what those “certified by” stickers mean, […]

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VZ 206: New to the Plant Based Lifestyle (and sick of salad!) May 28, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we address a question posed by a member of our closed Facebook group, the Peas and Carrots Society. Kristin Baxter is eager to embrace a more plant based lifestyle but just isn’t sure where to start. Her request for help had lots of really great responses […]

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VZ 205: Be Your Own Health Advocate May 21, 2017

A visit to the doctor’s office, even for a routine exam or procedure, can be intimidating. It’s easy to forget that, although doctors have the benefit of years of medical training, they may not always take the time to listen, or may not understand the things that are important to their patience. There is […]

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VZ 204: Transitioning from Vegan to Vegetarian May 14, 2017

In the plant-based lifestyle community, there is a lot of discussion about transitioning from vegetarian to vegan. But what about going the other way? In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about reasons for transitioning from vegan to vegetarian. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen […]

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VZ 203: Vegetarian- and Vegan-Friendly Travel Destinations May 07, 2017

If you’re planning to travel this summer, or even if you’re thinking of relocating permanently, you may want to take into account the availability of vegetarian and vegan resources at your desired destination. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share some of the most vegetarian- and vegan-friendly travel destinations. Thanks […]

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VZ 202: Good Grief, It’s…Granola! Apr 30, 2017

“Nuts and twigs.” “What crunchy people eat.” “Dry.” “Boring.” These are just a few of the stereotypes of granola over the years. But what is granola, really? How about delicious? In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we unmask granola…we clear up some misconceptions and talk about how to make great granola at […]

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VZ 201: 5 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Pet (Plus Helpful Adoption Tips) Apr 23, 2017

Six days after the passing of our beloved dog, Molly, we decided to get some “puppy therapy” at a local shelter. We thought it would make us feel better. It did, and we ended up bringing home the new light of our lives, our retriever mix, Cosmo Kramer. We like to say that we rescued […]

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VZ 200: Celebrating 200 Episodes of Vegetarian Zen Apr 16, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we reflect on the 199 episodes that have come before and share some of our listeners’ favorite things about the podcast. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please […]

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VZ 199: Don’t Sacrifice Creaminess — How to Make Creamy Vegan Sauces Apr 09, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share some ways to make creamy vegan sauces without using nuts. The idea for this topic came from a question posed by a member of the Peas & Carrots Society on Facebook! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! […]

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VZ 198: Organize Your Pantry, Fridge, and Freezer for Easier Healthy Eating Apr 02, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share some tips to organize your pantry, fridge, and freezer to make it easier to prepare and store healthy meals and snacks. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, […]

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VZ 197: Another Round of “Ask Vegetarian Zen Anything” Mar 26, 2017

Back in November of 2015, we did an episode called Ask Vegetarian Zen Anything. Since it’s been a long time since then, we thought we’d do another installment. We asked members of the Peas & Carrots Society for their questions…here they are, along with our best responses. Thanks for tuning in to this […]

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VZ 196: Plant Based Lunches That Will Keep You Fuller Longer Mar 19, 2017

The idea for this episode came from a member of the Peas and Carrots Society, our closed Facebook group, who asked for ideas for meat replacements for filling plant based lunches to take to work. In our discussion, we focus more on the “staying full” aspect, and not exactly on replacing meat with “meat […]

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VZ 195: Homemade Cleaning Products Mar 12, 2017

In the last episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we shared information about why conventional household cleaners are so bad (for us and for the environment) and offered some tips for making cleaning more environmentally-friendly and less hazardous to health. In this episode, we’ll be talking specifically about making your own cleaning products, including […]

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VZ 194: Spring Cleaning? Green Cleaning! Mar 05, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about the merits of using green cleaning products above conventional ones and share a few green cleaning tips. (Next week, we’ll be talking about making your own green cleaners, so be sure to stay tuned!) Thanks for tuning in to this episode of […]

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VZ 193: Smoothies for Everyone! Feb 26, 2017

This episode of our podcast, “Smoothies for Everyone!” was inspired by two active members of our Peas and Carrots Society Facebook group, Crystel Aguilar and Katy Dunn. We’ll talk about tips for making great smoothies, ways to salvage smoothies gone wrong, and some favorite ingredients from our community. Thanks for tuning in to […]

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VZ 192: Sorghum Feb 19, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we learn about sorghum, an ancient grain that is gaining in popularity these days for a number of reasons (it’s gluten-free, for one!). Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on […]

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VZ 191: The How and Why of Sprouting Feb 12, 2017

Most people are familiar with mung bean sprouts (the kind used in Asian cooking) and perhaps alfalfa sprouts, but did you know that the sprouts of many other kinds of beans, seeds, and grains can be eaten as well? In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll explain exactly what sprouting is, why […]

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VZ 190: The Creative Vegetable Gardener’s “Smart Start Garden Planner” Feb 05, 2017

Spring will be here before we know it, so it’s time to start planning this year’s gardens. With that in mind, on this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we welcome back Megan Cain, otherwise known as the Creative Vegetable Gardener. Megan first visited with us on episode 113, way back in August of […]

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VZ 189: Plant Based Food Trends for 2017 Jan 29, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we take a look at some plant based food trends for 2017. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note that […]

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VZ 188: Becoming a Vegetarian Later in Life Jan 22, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be talking about becoming a vegetarian later in life. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note that some […]

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VZ 187: Mushrooms (There’s a Fungus Among Us!) Jan 15, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll learn about the different types of mushrooms and talk about mushroom nutrition and health benefits. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating […]

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VZ 186: Simple Meals to Make When You Don’t Want to Cook Jan 08, 2017

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast was inspired by a question posed by one of the members of the Peas & Carrots Society regarding what to eat when you’re not up to cooking. We share some simple meals to make to get you in and out of the kitchen with minimal fuss and […]

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VZ 185: The Power of Meditation Jan 01, 2017

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share some insights into the power of meditation with regard to both physical and mental health. We also give some tips for establishing a regular meditation practice–it’s not as difficult as you may think! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen […]

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VZ 184: On Being Grateful Dec 25, 2016

Did you know that adopting an attitude of gratitude can improve your quality of life? Being grateful can boost your physical, mental, and emotional health; change the way others perceive you, and make you more successful in your personal and professional relationships. And expressing that gratitude to others around you will make them feel […]

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VZ 183: Healthy Plant-Based Comfort Foods Dec 18, 2016

Sometimes you just need to soothe your soul with a helping of your favorite food, whether it’s a steaming bowl of soup, a satisfying helping of plant-based shepherd’s pie, or a serving of your favorite dessert (or a plate of crunchy, cheesy nachos!). This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about plant-based […]

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VZ 182: Junk Food Indulgences Dec 11, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be discussing those times when you just “gotta have” that “bad for you” junk food. Are donuts your weakness? Potato chips? We’ll talk about why we have these cravings, how much it’s okay to “indulge” them, and how you can mitigate them. Thanks for […]

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VZ 181: Homemade Salad Dressings Dec 04, 2016

A member of the Peas and Carrots Society, our closed Facebook group, asked recently about suggestions for good homemade salad dressings, and other members didn’t disappoint! In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be sharing some of their great ideas and favorite recipes for homemade salad dressings. Thanks for tuning in […]

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VZ 180: All About Vegan Fashion – Just in Time for Holiday Shopping Nov 27, 2016

The holidays are upon us! If you’re a vegan, receiving non-vegan clothing or accessories from well-meaning gift-givers can become an uncomfortable situation. Many people don’t realize that vegans typically do not use products made from animals (leather bags, belts, or wallets, suede clothing, jewelry made from ivory, etc). Also, it can often be hard […]

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VZ 179: Best Vegetarian and Vegan Magazines Nov 20, 2016

Books and the Internet aren’t the only way to learn about plant-based recipes and tips or cruelty-free products. Magazines can be great resources as well. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll share some popular vegetarian and vegan magazines. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! […]

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VZ 178: A Very Vegetarian Thanksgiving Nov 13, 2016

For those of us in the US, Thanksgiving is nearly here. It’s a time for feasting and family and football and, well…feasting. For vegetarians and vegans, Thanksgiving and other food-centric holidays can be a challenge. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll share some tips from our wonderful friends in the Peas […]

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VZ 177: Healthy Habits for Happy Travels Nov 06, 2016

Can you believe it’s almost time for the holiday travel season…again?? In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share some tips for creating healthy habits for happy travels. Included in our tips are some great suggestions from members of our closed Facebook group, The Peas and Carrots Society. Thanks for tuning […]

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VZ 176: The Amazing Health Benefits of Fermented Foods Oct 30, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about the health benefits of fermented foods. Kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, miso, natto, and other fermented foods can be very beneficial for gut health and other bodily functions. We learned a lot from researching this topic, and hope you’ll learn something new about fermented foods when […]

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VZ 175: The Great Grains Breakdown Oct 23, 2016

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about grains. What are grains, exactly, besides the stuff that gets ground into flour? We talk about the types of grains and elaborate on the importance of including plenty of whole grains in your diet. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the […]

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VZ 174: 5 Ways to Celebrate Vegetarian Awareness Month Oct 16, 2016

October is Vegetarian Awareness Month, so in this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we share 5 ways you can celebrate! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please […]

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VZ 173: Health Benefits of Pet Ownership Oct 09, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we talk about one of our favorite subjects…pets! Specifically, did you know that owning a pet (or even just interacting with animals) can have positive effects on your health? Not to mention the good it does for them. Thanks for tuning in to this episode […]

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VZ 172: Maintaining Peace in a Multivore Household Oct 02, 2016

You’re a veggiesaurus living with one or more meatasauruses…what do you do? This is a topic that comes up often for vegetarians/vegans and their families, so in this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we share some ideas for making a multivore household work. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the […]

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VZ 171: Bar Wars – The Ins and Outs of Energy Bars and Nutrition Bars Sep 25, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we take a look at energy bars and nutrition bars. We discuss the difference between these two types of convenience foods, what you should look for when reading labels on store-bought bars, and how you can make your own. Thanks for tuning in to this […]

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VZ 170: The Mighty Jalapeno! Sep 18, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re getting spicy! Spicy with jalapenos, that is! We’ll learn all about these popular peppers, including some possible health benefits and some delicious ways to use them. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our […]

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VZ 169: How to Gain Weight on a Plant Based Diet Sep 11, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be discussing something that, while it may not apply to many, is still an important issue to consider: how to gain weight on a plant-based diet. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our […]

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VZ 168: The Taco Cleanse – Most Delicious “Detox” EVER! Sep 04, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll take a look at a witty and original cookbook, The Taco Cleanse, which pokes fun at “cleanse” diets while at the same time giving the reader some truly inspiring and yummy recipes for all things taco. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of […]

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VZ 167: Restrictive Eating and a Vegetarian Lifestyle Aug 28, 2016

In today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’re going to talk about something that is very close to us…the problems associated with restrictive eating. While not technically classified as an eating disorder, restrictive eating can be very damaging and very hard to address and overcome. Vickie will share some personal experiences, as well […]

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VZ 166: Planning for Healthy Back to School Lunches Aug 21, 2016

Parents and kids are gearing up for back to school, so in this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be talking about some ways to make school lunch planning and prep easier. We’ll also share some lunch suggestions from members of our Facebook group, the Peas and Carrots Society (What Up, Peas & […]

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VZ 165: The Importance of Having a Strong Social Support System Aug 14, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss the importance of having a strong support system, whether it is for your lifestyle choices, a chronic illness, emotional issues, or any other issue that might be important to you. In this day and age, it is very easy to find support online, and […]

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VZ 164: Questions to Ask at the Farmers Market Aug 07, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll help you get ready to head out to the farmers market by sharing some good questions to ask the farmers and other vendors. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen […]

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VZ 163: Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurant Chains Jul 31, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share some information about vegetarian- and vegan-friendly options at fast food and casual restaurant chains. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating […]

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VZ 162: Resources for Living a Plant Based Lifestyle – Health & Nutrition Edition Jul 24, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we continue our discussion of resources for living a plant based lifestyle. Last week was all about where to find vegetarian and vegan recipes; this time we’re sharing where to look when you have questions about health and nutrition. Thanks for tuning in to this […]

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VZ 161: Where to Find Awesome Vegetarian and Vegan Recipes Jul 17, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll share some terrific sources for amazing vegetarian and vegan recipes, as recommended by members of the Peas & Carrots Society. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please […]

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VZ 160: Re-examining Living with Diabetes Jul 10, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we revisit a topic we first discussed back in episode 88 – living with diabetes. Larissa has continued her struggle since that episode aired in February of 2015, and we talk about setbacks and how to deal with them. Thanks for tuning in to this […]

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VZ 159: The Peas & Carrots Society’s Plant-Based Summer Picnic Jul 03, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be going on a virtual plant-based summer picnic with the Peas & Carrots Society, the closed Facebook group for our listeners and friends. We asked the group to share their favorite picnic take-alongs, and we’ll be passing them along to you today. Thanks for tuning […]

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VZ 158: Best Veggie Burgers Jun 26, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be sharing some tips for making the best veggie burgers ever! For our American listeners, Fourth of July is next week, and you know what that means…cookouts! And for unprepared vegetarians…a big plate of potato salad and coleslaw. Let us help you round out that […]

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VZ 157: Whole Food Snacks for Pets Jun 19, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be talking about some healthy, whole foods you can feed your pups and kitties. Not all fruits and veggies are safe for animals, so we’ll be sharing both the safe and unsafe ones, plus some tips for introducing your pet to plant-based snacks. Thanks for […]

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VZ 156: Meal in a Bowl Jun 12, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we talk about something that has become quite popular of late…the meal in a bowl. It seems like every fast food joint and chain restaurant nowadays has at least one “bowl” on their menu…the “Southwestern Fajita Bowl” or the “Asian Fusion Bowl” or the “Breakfast Smoothie […]

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VZ 155: Your Guide to Community Supported Agriculture Programs (CSAs) Jun 05, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we learn a little about Community Supported Agriculture, or CSA. We’ll hear from some of our Peas & Carrots members about their experiences with them as well! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our […]

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VZ 154: Natural Relief for Joint Pain May 29, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we talk about something that we both deal with, along with many, many other people: joint pain. Yes, there are lots of medicines and other medical treatments available for arthritis and other joint issues, but there are also lots of great natural treatments. We elicited the […]

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VZ 153: The One Where the Peas and Carrots Society Shared Amazing Recipes May 22, 2016

We’re changing up the format of the Recipes segment of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, so that each episode will feature a recipe recommended by one of our listeners. In order to introduce this change, this entire episode will feature recipes recommended by members of the Peas and Carrots Society, our closed Facebook group. Thanks, guys! […]

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VZ 152: Whole Food Options for Managing Menopause May 15, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss the dreaded “M” word…menopause. We share some natural alternatives to the hormone replacement therapy that is regularly prescribed by doctors, specifically some whole food options for managing menopause. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value […]

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VZ 151: The Low Carb Vegetarian May 08, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss the possibility of being a low carb vegetarian (yep…you can totally do it). Special thanks goes out to Andrea Gaietto and Elizabeth McGrath for suggesting this topic in response to a request for topic ideas that Vickie posted in the Peas and Carrots group on […]

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VZ 150: Vitamin B12 – Yes, Plant-Eaters, You May Need a Supplement May 01, 2016

In last week’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talked about the importance of iron to our diets, what happens when we don’t get enough, and some foods that are good sources of iron. We continue the nutrient education trend in this episode, this time for vitamin B12. Thanks for tuning in […]

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VZ 149: The Importance of Iron (and How to Get Enough When You Follow a Plant-Based Diet) Apr 24, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll share what we’ve learned about iron as a result of Larissa’s recent diagnosis of severe iron deficiency. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us […]

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VZ 148: 9 Ingredients You Can Make Instead of Buying Apr 17, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be sharing 9 “ingredients” that you can easily make instead of buying the processed versions. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating […]

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VZ 147: What’s Hidden Behind the Words “Natural Flavors”? Apr 10, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we clarify exactly what the words “natural flavors” mean in ingredients lists for processed foods. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and […]

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VZ 146: Using a Pressure Cooker to Create Healthy Vegetarian Food Apr 03, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss our latest and greatest acquisition for our kitchen – a pressure cooker. We explain how pressure cooking works, share which cooker we purchased, what we’ve made in it (so far), and our opinions of pressure cooking and our cooker. Thanks for tuning in […]

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VZ 145: 8 Brain-Boosting Foods for Vegetarians Mar 27, 2016

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast is all about brain-boosting foods for vegetarians. Vickie became interested in this after we recorded our last episode on MSG and really began to analyze some of the foods in our pantry. Much to our dismay, we still found more junk food than we cared to admit. […]

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VZ 144: MSG – What Is It Good For? Absolutely Nothing (Say It Again!) Mar 20, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be discussing MSG, a pervasive and toxic food additive that can pose potentially serious health risks. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a […]

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VZ 143: Tea Time with Vegetarian Zen Mar 13, 2016

It’s time for high tea! This episode of the podcast contains all things tea – the types of tea, possible health benefits, types of tea to avoid, and the importance of buying organic. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and […]

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VZ 142: Nutritional Yeast – Just What Is This “Nooch” Anyway? Mar 06, 2016

Recently in the Peas and Carrots Society Facebook group a member posted a question about nutritional yeast. What followed was an amazing discussion among members about these mysterious yellow flakes, including some really yummy-sounding and creative ways to use them. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we demystify nutritional yeast and share […]

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VZ 141: Plant-Based Dessert & Snack Options Feb 28, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we wrap up our 4-part series on plant-based meals. This time, we’ll be sharing some plant-based dessert and snack options. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a […]

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VZ 140: Plant-Based Dinner Options Feb 21, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we continue our 4-part series on plant-based meals. This time, we’ll be sharing some plant-based dinner options. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating […]

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VZ 139: Plant-Based Lunch Options Feb 14, 2016

Plant-Based Lunch Options In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we continue our 4-part series on plant-based meals. This time, we share some plant-based lunch options. The amazing thing about all of the lunch ideas we talk about is that they are really limited only by your imagination and your tastes. There are […]

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VZ 138: Plant-Based Breakfast Options Feb 07, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we kick off our 4-part series about plant-based meals by talking about what is often referred to as “the most important meal of the day”: breakfast. We’ll discuss some of the many plant-based breakfast options, as well as share a few easy planning tips. Thanks […]

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VZ 137: Is Alcohol Vegetarian-Friendly? Jan 31, 2016

Of all foods and beverages, you would think that alcohol would be on the list of vegetarian- and vegan-approved foods, right? Well…only partially right. Animal-derived products are used during the refining or clarifying process of many types of alcohol. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we answer the question: Is Alcohol Vegetarian-Friendly? Thanks for […]

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VZ 136: Meat Alternatives – The “Big Three” (Tofu, Tempeh, and Seitan) Jan 24, 2016

We’ve talked a lot about tofu, tempeh, and seitan in past episodes, but we’ve never put them all together side by side in a single sitting. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about all three of these popular meat alternatives: what they are, what health benefits they may have, and […]

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VZ 135: A Healthy Home Starts with Good Indoor Air Quality Jan 17, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss the importance of keeping the air inside your home (or office) fresh and clean. We share some of the ways in which poor indoor air quality can affect your health, and let you know about some of the most common indoor air pollutants. We […]

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VZ 134: Becoming Vegan Jan 10, 2016

Lately we’ve been seeing a lot of our Peas and Carrots Society members sharing their stories of becoming vegan. Lots of great discussions have happened as a result of these stories. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be talking about going vegan…sharing some tips, common questions, resources, and more. Thanks for […]

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VZ 133: Salads Without Greens – How to Make Delicious Salads with Pasta, Grains, Shaved Vegetables, and More Jan 03, 2016

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we continue our discussion of the wide world of salads that we started back in episode 130. That episode was all about green salads; now we’ll talk about all the delicious salads you can make without greens. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the […]

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VZ 132: 2015 – A Great Year to Be Vegetarian Dec 27, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we take a look back at 2015, both personally and in the world of vegetarian, vegan, and animal news. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving […]

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VZ 131: Holiday Cookies – Vegan, Gluten-Free, Diabetic-Friendly and More Dec 20, 2015

Cookies! There’s really nothing more to say about this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast except…cookies!! We talk about our favorite holiday cookies, share some resources for vegan, gluten-free, and diabetic-friendly cookie recipes, and some tips for veganizing cookie recipes. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If […]

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VZ 130: Anatomy of a Salad Dec 13, 2015

“Salad-eater” tends to be the stereotype by which vegetarians are defined. And in general, it’s probably a fair guess to say that most people’s idea of “salad” in this instance is some lettuce in a bowl with a few tomatoes, maybe a cucumber, and some dressing. While we would venture to guess that most […]

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VZ 129: To the Holidays and Beyond! 2015 Vegetarian and Vegan Gift Guide Dec 06, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we present our 2015 vegetarian and vegan gift guide for the holidays. It’s jam-packed with great gift ideas, and you’ll find direct links to many of the products and companies we mention in the notes below. And if we missed some of your favorite goodies, be […]

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VZ 128: Vinegar Is Amazing! (Don’t Let the Sour Disposition Fool You) Nov 29, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we do some tart talking…all about vinegar. You’ll hear about the types of vinegar, some ways to use it in cooking, the purported health benefits of apple cider vinegar, and some ways to incorporate it into your green cleaning routine. Thanks for tuning in to this […]

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VZ 127: Slow Cooker Recipes and Tips for Vegetarians and Vegans Nov 22, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we share some tips for preparing delicious plant-based slow cooker recipes. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note that some […]

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VZ 126: Ask Vegetarian Zen Anything Nov 15, 2015

We recently put out a call to you, our listeners and readers, to ask Vegetarian Zen anything you wanted to know about us. You did not disappoint! You came up with some really great questions, and in this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we do our very best to answer them. Thanks […]

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VZ 125: Vegetarian Cooking for One Nov 08, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we tackle vegetarian cooking for one (and vegan cooking, too!). Just because it’s just you doesn’t mean you should cave in to fast food, or maintain a steady diet of breakfast cereal! We share some simple tips to keep you eating healthy meals. Thanks for […]

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VZ 124: Help! I’m a Vegetarian Craving Meat! Nov 01, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss what you can do if you are a vegetarian craving meat. Yes, it does happen and it’s nothing to be ashamed about. Many of us were raised on meat and it’s natural to crave it both in the physical sense and in the social/psychological […]

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VZ 123: Vegetarians and Calcium – The Truth Revealed! Oct 25, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we discuss calcium intake, a subject that concerns many people, vegetarians AND omnivores alike. There is a myth that in order to get enough calcium from our diets, we must consume milk from animals. This is simply not true! We’ll talk about this misconception and share which […]

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VZ 122: Zen and the Art of Being Me Oct 18, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we have fun recapping Vickie’s wildly successful TED-like presentation called “Zen and the Art of Being Me”. She delivered this 16-minute speech to a group of 300 peers from her corporate job, and did a fantastic job! Once the video clip is made available to her […]

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VZ 121: Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Tempeh Oct 11, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast you’ll learn all about tempeh, one alternative to tofu when it comes to making tasty vegetarian and vegan dishes. We’ve mentioned it in other episodes, but we had a listener request to devote an entire episode to tempeh, so here we are! Thanks for tuning in […]

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VZ 120: Happy World Animal Day! Oct 04, 2015

Happy World Animal Day!!! This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is dedicated to animals everywhere! In it we share lots of information about World Animal Day: what it is, how it got started, and ways YOU can get involved. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you […]

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VZ 119: Building a PlantPure Nation Sep 27, 2015

We were fortunate to be able to attend a screening of the documentary PlantPure Nation this past week. The film was directed by Nelson Campbell, son of renowned researcher and whole-plant-foods advocate T. Colin Campbell. As Campbell (the younger) explains, PlantPure Nation is a grass-roots movement aimed at changing the way America eats by […]

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VZ 118: Vegan Butcher Shops – Yes, They DO Exist (and They’re Awesome!)! Sep 20, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be talking about something that’s pretty new – vegan butcher shops! In the past couple of years these businesses have slowly been starting to pop up, and it’s really great news for the vegetarian and vegan community. We’ll talk about where you might find a […]

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VZ 117: Making a Difference with Vegetarianism Sep 13, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss a topic that was suggested by a listener. She wondered if some people who became vegetarian or vegan for reasons pertaining to animal welfare suffer from depression because they feel that they are not making a difference with vegetarianism. We address some reasons for these feelings […]

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VZ 116: The Vegan Cheese Episode Sep 06, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll tackle a topic that thwarts many people in their attempts to go completely vegan: CHEESE. We’ll talk about some dairy-free ways to satisfy your cheese cravings, plus take a look at what goes into making vegan cheese. Thanks for tuning in to this episode […]

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VZ 115: Are You Getting Enough Iodine? Your Thyroid Might Not Think So! Aug 30, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we discuss thyroid issues and iodine deficiencies, and why they are of special interest to vegetarians and vegans. Vickie discloses a personal story and shares why thyroid and iodine issues recently became important to us. Disclaimer: Everything we discuss is based STRICTLY on our own research […]

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VZ 114: How to Take Frozen Vegetables from Frosty to Fabulous Aug 23, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be talking about how to use frozen vegetables and fruits in ways that go way beyond just giving them the boiling water treatment. In fact, boiling water is actually bad for your frozen veggies…we’ll tell you why! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the […]

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VZ 113: Interview with Megan Cain, AKA The Creative Vegetable Gardener Aug 16, 2015

On this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we interview Megan Cain of The Creative Vegetable Gardener. She has been featured in Apartment Therapy, The Organic Gardner Podcast, the Art of Non-Conformity blog, and the PBS’s Victory Garden Edible Feast. Megan is an urban gardener and garden educator, and is the author of two books: […]

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VZ 112: Demystifying Essential Fatty Acids – Omega-3 and Omega-6 Aug 09, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be delving into the mystifying world of fatty acids. We’ll have a little primer to help understand what fatty acids are before we delve into the heart of the topic, the essential fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of […]

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VZ 111: 10 Natural Sweeteners (Besides White Sugar!) Aug 02, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we talk about some natural alternatives to sugar for sweetening your foods. None of that artificial, made-by-scientists stuff like aspartame or Splenda…what we’ll be discussing was all made in Mother Nature’s laboratory. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If […]

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VZ 110: Using Foodscaping to Maximize the Deliciousness of Your Yard Jul 26, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discuss compelling reasons to transform your yard into an edible paradise using foodscaping. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please […]

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VZ 109: You May Be a Reducetarian (and not even know it!) Jul 19, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be discussing a familiar concept with a new name. What exactly is a reducetarian and why is being one a good thing? We’ll find out! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and […]

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VZ 108: 7 Eco-Friendly Travel Tips Jul 12, 2015

Summer is here, and vacation season is in full swing. While travel is fun for us, it takes its toll on the environment in some pretty big ways. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share seven tips for eco-friendly travel. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian […]

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VZ 107: Is Danger Lurking In Your Kitchen Cabinets? Jul 05, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be taking a look at different types of cookware. More specifically, we’ll examine why non-stick pans are really a bad idea, and offer some other, healthy cookware options. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in […]

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VZ 106: Vegetarian Cookout with Vickie and Larissa Jun 28, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’re getting ready for a Fourth of July vegetarian cookout. We’ll talk about all the great foods you can grill BESIDES meat, as well as some strategies for going to cookouts away from home. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! […]

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VZ 105: Why Aren’t There More Vegetarian and Vegan Men? Jun 21, 2015

Today’s episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is a listener request. Rachel asked us if we would explore the topic of vegetarian and vegan men. Here is what she said: I have an idea for a future podcast. I think a lot of vegetarians and vegans are women. Why aren’t there many guys who […]

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VZ 104: Resource Guide – How to Find In-Season Produce Jun 14, 2015

We talk often about eating “in season” to help you save money and find the freshest foods, but how do you know what is in season in your area? In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be offering some resources to help you figure out what’s available to you and when. Thanks […]

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VZ 103: Food and Stress – How to Eat Properly to Stress Less Jun 07, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be talking about stress. We’ll discuss some foods that can exacerbate stress levels and which foods may give you some relief. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider […]

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VZ 102: How to Save Money When Following a Plant-Based Diet May 31, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we revisit a topic we first discussed back in episode 70. We’ll be discussing the cost of following a plant-based diet: whether it is more expensive than an omnivore diet, and some things you can do to eat plant-based for less. Thanks for tuning in to this […]

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VZ 101: Attack of the Vegan Snacks! May 24, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be snacking, vegan-style. We’ll talk about pre-packaged snacks and ones you can easily make at home. Yum!! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a […]

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VZ 100: 5 Things Vegetarians and Vegans Want People to Know May 17, 2015

In this, our 100th episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we share 5 things vegetarians and vegans want people to know. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note […]

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VZ 099: Simple Gardening Tips – Lessons Learned in Our Garden May 10, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we talk about our garden…we’re getting adventurous this year and adding more than just herbs! We discuss our natural growing and pest control methods, plus our successes and some challenges we’ve encountered. Listen for some simple gardening tips we’ve learned from growing our own herbs and vegetables. […]

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VZ 098: Vegan Home Furnishings – Tips to Veganize Your Home May 03, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be talking about ways to veganize your home. We’ll make you aware of quite a few common home items that you would never think are made from animals, and we’ll tell you things to look for when furnishing a vegan household. Thanks for tuning in to […]

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VZ 097: How to Shop Smart at a Farmers Market Apr 26, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we’ll be discussing how to shop smart at farmers markets. These venues are a great place to shop for fresh, local veggies and fruits, plus scratch-made breads and pastries, jams and jellies, honey, soap, and lots more. Shopping at a fresh market is very different (and in […]

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VZ 096: Growing the Future with Heirloom Seeds and Plants Apr 19, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be continuing with our spring gardening theme and talking about heirloom plants and seeds. The word “heirloom” means a treasured possession that has remained in a family for generations. In today’s episode you’ll learn why seeds need to be treasured and preserved more than any family […]

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VZ 095: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Home Furnishings Apr 12, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we offer tips to make your home eco-friendly. First, we let you know why “traditionally-made” furnishings such as furniture, mattresses, pillows, and linens fall short on the sustainability spectrum. Next, we let you know what to look for when shopping; things like ecologically-harvested wood, bamboo instead of […]

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VZ 094: Composting 101 Apr 05, 2015

Spring is finally here, and it’s time to get those gardens in shape for a new growing season. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we’ll be talking about composting: what it is, what you can compost and what you can’t, the different methods of composting, and how to use your composted materials. Thanks […]

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VZ 093: Coffee Talk with Vickie and Larissa Mar 29, 2015

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast is all about coffee. You’ll learn about some of the purported benefits of this magic brown liquid, as well as some things to look out for. We’ll also discuss the importance of buying organic, fair-trade coffee. After doing the research for this episode we checked the coffee we […]

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VZ 092: Animal Sanctuaries — Making the World a Safer Place for Animals Mar 22, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we talk about some animal sanctuaries that are doing amazing work to help animals in need. We delve a little into the mission of each group, talk about their outreach programs, and share some fun facts. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! […]

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VZ 091: Organic vs Non-GMO Mar 15, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we discuss buying organic vs non-GMO (and there is a huge difference!). We define each term and let you know which one is more important to consider when you’re at the market. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find […]

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VZ 090: Joe Cross Is Back In “Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead 2” Mar 08, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be reviewing the documentary Fat, Sick, & Nearly Dead 2. Filmed 5 years after the original Fat Sick & Nearly Dead, this film updates Joe Cross’s progress, features lots of interviews of real people who were inspired to get healthy through juicing, and has more great […]

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VZ 089: Coconut Oil – Health Food or Hype? Mar 01, 2015

This episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast is all about coconut oil. Is it a health food or just hype? We discuss some health claims associated with coconut oil, what the research says, our conclusions, and some popular (and not so well-known) uses. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you […]

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VZ 088: A Discussion About Diabetes and Plant-Based Foods Feb 22, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be discussing diabetes and healthy plant-based foods. We briefly explain how the Glycemic Index (“GI” factor) works, talk about the factors that can affect the GI of foods, and how some aspects of a HEALTHY, BALANCED plant-based diet may benefit diabetics. Thanks for tuning in to […]

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VZ 087: Exploring the Diverse and Delicious Vegetarian Ethnic Food Experience Feb 15, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we take a look at the vegetarian and vegan offerings of several ethnic cuisines, including Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and more. We also make you aware of some of the “hidden” non-veg aspects of foods from these cultures. Thanks for tuning in to this episode […]

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VZ086: Vegetarian, Vegan, or Environmentally-Conscious? There’s an App for That! Feb 08, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be taking a look at some vegetarian apps and vegan apps, as well as those that may be helpful for animal lovers, and environmentally-conscious people. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and […]

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VZ 085: A Veggieversary Quote-a-Thon Feb 01, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’re excited to share the details of our second Veggieversary celebration! We also revisit the reasons we became vegetarians two years ago and share five quotes that best represent those reasons. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our […]

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VZ 084: Simple 5-Ingredient Recipes Jan 25, 2015

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be discussing some ideas for simple 5-ingredient recipes. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note that some of the links […]

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VZ 083: Where to Buy Vegan Food Online Jan 18, 2015

Not everyone lives in an area where vegan foods are readily available, which can make being a vegan a bit of a challenge. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we’ll be sharing a few resources to buy vegan food online. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If […]

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VZ 082: Don’t Be Fooled By Deceptive Food Labels! Jan 11, 2015

In this episode, we share some of the most common tricks that food manufacturers use in an attempt to fool consumers like you into thinking their product is healthy (or at least healthier than other options). We know the majority of our listeners are trying to do better for themselves and for their families as far […]

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VZ 081: Eating for Sustainability – How to Save the Planet One Meal at a Time Jan 04, 2015

In Episode 037: Vegetarianism & the Environment, we talked about the effects that eating meat has on the environment. In this episode we’ll share food-related tips that will help with environmental sustainability. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please […]

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VZ 080: Favorite Vegetarian Zen Podcast Episodes Revealed! Dec 28, 2014

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, the last of 2014, we’ll reveal our some of our favorite episodes over the past year and a half. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us […]

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VZ 079: Alternatives to the Peanut – A Guide to Nut Butters and Seed Butters Dec 21, 2014

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, you’ll hear way more than you ever thought you would about nut butters and seed butters. Move over peanuts…jelly wants to make some new friends! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen […]

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Bonus 02: Bonus Episode – Simple and Delicious Vegetarian Potluck Recipes Dec 16, 2014

This BONUS episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast was inspired by a question posted by Jeff Jackson in The Peas and Carrots Society: Friends of Vegetarian Zen Facebook group: Does anyone have any suggestions for a vegan side dish, chilled or room-temperature, to bring to a lunchtime holiday party at the office? Needs to […]

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VZ 078: The Delicious World of Plant Milks Dec 14, 2014

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, you’ll learn that there is indeed life after dairy milk! We’ll talk about plant milks such as soy, nut, rice and coconut milks. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, […]

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VZ 077: Make Busy Weeknights Easy with These Simple Vegetarian Recipes Dec 07, 2014

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast we’ll share some of our favorite simple vegetarian recipes for busy weeknights. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a rating and review. Please note that some […]

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VZ 076: 7 Foods We’re Loving Right Now Nov 30, 2014

If you’re like us, you go through food “phases”. You’ll find a new food, or remember one you haven’t had in a while, and you’ll eat it all the time…or at least until you get sick of it! In this episode of the podcast, we tell you about 7 foods we’re loving right now. […]

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VZ 075: A Brief History of Vegetarianism Nov 23, 2014

If you think vegetarianism is just a “hippie” movement from the 1960s then you’re way off! Vegetarianism developed as a philosophy as long ago as the ancient Greeks, as you’ll hear in this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast. We’ll discuss the first vegetarian societies, the influence of nineteenth and twentieth century writers and […]

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VZ 074: Finding Vegan & Environmentally-Friendly Gifts Nov 16, 2014

Get ready for the ultimate gift guide for all the vegans, animal-lovers, and environmentally-conscious people on your list! Need vegan gifts? No more talking…here we go! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen on iTunes, please consider leaving us a […]

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VZ 073: You Can Feed Your Pet a Vegetarian Diet…But Should You? Nov 09, 2014

You may want to feed your pet a vegetarian diet (or vegan, even) for a variety of reasons: Ethics — owners who abstain from eating animal products for reasons related to the cruel conditions on factory farms may not want animals to be eaten, even by other animals Pet health — “logic” would dictate that […]

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VZ 072: Don’t Let Food Cravings Hold You Hostage! Nov 02, 2014

Sometimes I’ll get a food craving that is so strong and all-consuming that I can’t think straight. I find myself planning how and when I can go and get that food and eat it. Eat it all. Most of the time, of course, my craving is for something that is bad, bad, bad for me, […]

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VZ 071: Wait…What? Lemons Are Alkaline? Oct 26, 2014

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be discussing alkaline and acidic foods. You’ll learn what pH is and why it is important plus which foods are acidic and which are alkaline. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! If you find value in our podcast and listen […]

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VZ 070: Eating Healthy on a Budget Oct 19, 2014

One of the main reasons people give for not eating healthy is the perceived extra expense. I say “perceived” because the idea that healthy food is more expense isn’t necessarily true. Sure, some organic, natural foods may cost a bit more than their conventional or processed counterparts. There are things you can do, however, to […]

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VZ 069: Superfoods – Marketing Ploy or the Real McCoy? Oct 12, 2014

Have you noticed, over the past few years, a trend in the grocery marketplace toward pushing products that contain “superfoods”? As in, “Buy this pancake mix containing the superfood flax!”. Or, “XYZ granola is packed with superfood ingredients like blueberries, acai berries, and chia seeds!”. So, is there really such a thing as a “superfood”? […]

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VZ 068: The Joy of Vegan Baking Oct 05, 2014

Before I became a vegetarian I had a lot of misconceptions about vegan baked goods. I knew nothing about vegan baking, and I figured that vegan cookies and cakes must be filled with really weird ingredients, have a texture like cardboard, and taste, well…funky. Boy was I wrong!! Even though we are not full-time vegans, […]

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VZ 067: Gluten Free Made Simple Sep 28, 2014

In this episode we’ll be discussing all things gluten. You’ll learn what gluten is and what health problems can be associated with it. You’ll also hear what foods contain gluten and which are naturally gluten free. We’ll also discuss whether or not a gluten free diet is a good choice. Thanks for tuning in to […]

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VZ 066: 5 Byproducts of Busy Bees Sep 21, 2014

This episode of the podcast is all about bees! You’ll find out why honey isn’t considered vegan, and learn about the five main bee products: honey, bee pollen, propolis, royal jelly, and beeswax. We’ll discuss the purported benefits of each, plus the risks. We’ll also share a few places you can find cruelty-free bee products. […]

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VZ 065: Finding Cruelty Free Products Is Easier Than You Think (We’ve Got Sources!) Sep 14, 2014

In Episode 064 of the Vegetarian Zen podcast we discussed what “cruelty free” really means and how to tell if products and their ingredients are truly made without harming animals. We also debunked some myths about cruelty free products. One of those myths is that they are hard to find. With that in mind, in this […]

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VZ 064: Cruelty Free 101 – An Animal-Lover’s Guide to Finding Products Not Tested on Animals Sep 07, 2014

Using live animals in experiments is not a modern concept. The ancient Greeks practiced vivisection, the dissection of live animals, in order to understand how living organisms functioned. Historically, animals have been used to test treatments before applying to humans, and this practice continues to this day. This cruel, unnecessary practice. In this episode of […]

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VZ 063: Tips to Help You Transition From Vegetarian to Vegan Aug 31, 2014

We believe that a plant-based lifestyle should never be an all-or-nothing proposition. When we became vegetarians, we did it all at once and it was a bit of a struggle. Some people may be fine with a quick change, however. Same thing goes for transitioning from a vegetarian to vegan lifestyle. It may be that you’re […]

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VZ 062: How to Read Food Labels – The Bad & Ugly of Processed Foods Aug 24, 2014

In an ideal, natural-food world, ingredient labels on food would be really, really short. A label on vegetable soup might read like this: vegetable broth onions potatoes carrots tomatoes green beans Instead of this: What are “disodium guanylate” and “disodium inosinate”? And don’t even get me started on […]

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VZ 061: Going Raw – It’s More Than Just Wheatgrass Shots and Big Salads Aug 17, 2014

I once thought of raw foods as pretty much just wheatgrass shots (thank you, Sex and the City), really big salads, and snacking on carrot sticks. Truth be told, these things are just the tip of the iceberg (lettuce) when considering the realm of raw foods. In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we […]

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VZ 060: How to Make Amazing Vegetarian Stir Fry Aug 10, 2014

I love stir fry. It’s fresh, simple, quick, and lends itself so well to a vegetarian lifestyle. The fact that I love stir fry made the fact that I wasn’t very good at making it kind of sad. I, like many other aspiring stir fry chefs, labored under several common misconceptions about this type of […]

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VZ 059: Nutrition Secrets of Plant-Based Athletes Aug 03, 2014

It is a widely-held misconception that the terms “vegetarian” or “vegan” and “athlete” don’t belong together. Isn’t it true that athletes need a lot more protein than other people, and that animal protein is the best (or only) viable source? And what about calories? How can a person possibly consume enough calories to support a […]

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VZ 058: How to Handle Social Events as a Vegetarian – Listener Feedback Jul 27, 2014

As a vegetarian or vegan, attending social events can present a challenge. What if you’re invited to a birthday party…at a steakhouse? How about a Fourth of July cookout with burgers, hot dogs, ribs, and baked beans full of pork bits? It really can be enough to make you just want to stay home! Fortunately, […]

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VZ 057: How to Grill Like a Vegetarian Jul 20, 2014

Summertime, and the grilling is easy…with the helpful vegetable-grilling tips you’ll hear in this podcast episode. There are many vegetables, fruits and meat alternatives that do great on a charcoal or gas grill, but there are some tricks to getting them to turn out just right, with minimal sticking, burning, or falling through the grate. […]

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VZ 056: Explaining Vegetarian Choices Jul 13, 2014

Becoming a vegetarian or vegan is a very personal choice. Some may have ethical reasons, some health, some environmental. If you follow a plant-based lifestyle, you may or may not choose to share your reasons with others. This episode of the podcast is based on listener responses to the question “How do you explain your […]

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VZ 055: Kids and Vegetarianism Jul 06, 2014

Scenario #1: You’re interested in adopting a plant-based diet, but you have kids who may or may not jump enthusiastically on the veggie train. Scenario #2: One day, out of the blue, your child announces that (for whatever reason), she wants to be a vegetarian. In either case, what do you do? How do you […]

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VZ 054: “Fed Up” Documentary Review Jun 29, 2014

“Fed Up” is a powerful new documentary from Katie Couric, producer Laurie David, and director Stephanie Soechtig. The premise of the film is both simple and complex: what if everything we’ve been told about diet and exercise for the past 30 years is wrong? The research that went into “Fed Up” is extensive and revealing, […]

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VZ 053: The Soy Controversy Jun 22, 2014

To soy or not to soy, that is the question! Soy is an ancient food source. It’s been used in Asia for 5000 years. 3000 years ago, fermentation techniques were developed that helped to make soy more easily digestible, in the form of miso, tempeh and tamari. Tofu came along in China in the second […]

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VZ 052: Sugar Jun 15, 2014

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we’ll be discussing sugar. By the time we say goodbye, you’ll have learned about the six different types of sugar and some of the negative effects that sugar has on our bodies. You’ll also discover many sources of “hidden sugars” in the foods we eat and gain […]

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VZ 051: Help Your Body to Detoxify Naturally Jun 08, 2014

Detox and cleanse diets are all the rage these days, and the idea behind them can be very enticing. Who doesn’t want to think that your insides are squeaky clean and healthy? We bathe to keep our outsides fresh, so why not “bathe” internally as well? It was in the name of freshness and […]

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VZ 050: 50 Episodes of Vegetarian Zen Jun 01, 2014

Wow! It’s hard to believe we’ve reached 50 episodes of the Vegetarian Zen Podcast! In this episode, we take a look back at how far we’ve come. We revisit our purpose for starting this journey and discuss some of the many lessons we’ve learned along the way. Of course all of this would have been […]

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VZ 049: Fruits and Vegetables That Will Keep You Hydrated May 25, 2014

Summer is nearly upon us. Down here in South Texas, it’s already steamy and hot. We all know that staying hydrated is important, and even more so during the warmer months. But, besides drinking plenty of water, did you know that eating certain fruits and vegetables will help keep your body healthy and hydrated? In […]

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VZ 048: Foods That Seem Vegetarian (But Are Not!) May 18, 2014

If a food doesn’t contain chunks of meat it’s vegetarian, right? Not necessarily. Being vegetarian or vegan isn’t just about going “meatless”. There are some foods that have hidden animal products in them that you’ll want to be aware of if you’re trying to maintain a strictly vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. In this episode, we’ll clue […]

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VZ 047: Summer Fruits and Vegetables May 11, 2014

Summer is nearly here. A time for picnics, grilling out, spending time outside with family and friends. For many, some of our best memories are tied to summertime and food. When you were a kid did you enjoy fat slices of juicy watermelon out on the porch? How about grilled corn on the cob, seasoned […]

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VZ 046: Can a Plant-Based Diet Help Alleviate Seasonal Allergies? May 04, 2014

Funny story: when I was researching the topic for this episode, I went out searching for information about how eating meat could make you more succeptible to seasonal allergies. I thought surely that would be true. I mean, eating meat is bad for your body in so many other ways, right? Why couldn’t it make […]

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VZ 045: Interview with Farnoosh Brock Apr 27, 2014

In this episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, we are happy to be joined by Farnoosh Brock, founder and president of Prolific Living, and author of The Healthy Juicer’s Bible: Lose Weight, Detoxify, Fight Disease, and Live Long. In this interview, Farnoosh shares with us some insights from her newest book The Healthy Smoothie Bible: […]

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VZ 044: Healthy Fats Apr 20, 2014

Fat is bad for you, right? Otherwise, why would food companies produce items labeled “low-fat”, “reduced fat” or “fat free”? Despite the implications of many popular diets, we do need some fat in our bodies. Fat helps protect our organs from getting banged around when we move, and the right kinds of fat are important […]

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VZ 043: Sleep Well Naturally Apr 13, 2014

“I have a big report due at work tomorrow.” “Where did I leave my keys?” “I need to pick up the dry cleaning in the morning.” “Where did I leave my keys?” “Kayleigh needs 3 dozen cupcakes for school on Friday.” “WHERE DID I LEAVE MY KEYS?” With all of this going through you head […]

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VZ 042: Herb Gardening Apr 06, 2014

We love cooking with fresh herbs. They provide amazing flavor for just about any dish you can cook and, if you grow them at home, cost very little. In this episode, we provide a high-level overview of herb gardening. We discuss which herbs are annuals and which are perennials, the benefits of growing herbs in […]

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VZ 041: Our Review of Mayim’s Vegan Table Apr 01, 2014

Acclaimed actress, accomplished neuroscientist, awesome mom and full-time vegan Mayim Bialik has now created a vegan cookbook, aptly called Mayim’s Vegan Table. Packed with over 100 recipes plus four chapters full of helpful tips and guidelines, this book is easily a must-have for every vegan kitchen. Join us in this episode as we offer […]

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VZ 040: Meal Planning 101 Mar 24, 2014

Two of the biggest obstacles to eating healthy meals during the week are time and effort. How often do we come home tired from a long day at work and end up eating pre-packaged, easy to cook foods or take-out fast food? In this episode of the podcast, we offer seven meal planning tips that will […]

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VZ 039: Meal Prepping Shortcuts Mar 16, 2014

One of the biggest arguments against eating fresh, wholesome, healthy foods involves time. After a long day at the office and a long commute home, many people say it’s just too late to make a healthy meal and still eat at a decent hour. It’s much easier and faster to go through a drive-through, pick […]

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VZ 038: Discussing the Documentary “Super Size Me” Mar 09, 2014

Did you know that when “Super Size Me” was filmed back in 2004 only seven McDonald’s menu items (hash browns, sausage, chicken McNuggets, coffee, tea and diet coke) did not contain sugar? How about the fact that a today’s ten-piece order of chicken McNuggets contains 470 calories, 30 grams of fat and 900 milligrams of […]

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VZ 037: Vegetarianism & the Environment Mar 02, 2014

Raising animals for human consumption has a tremendous negative impact on our environment. Grazing animals such as cattle, sheep and goats release harmful gases into the atmosphere as part of their digestive process. The estimated number of cattle currently being farmed worldwide is 1.5 billion. Add to this number billions of other grazing animals, both […]

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VZ 036: More About Juicing Feb 23, 2014

So, you’ve been juicing for a while now (like we have), and you love it (we do too). But how do you know for sure you’re “doing it right”? Are you prepping your fruits and veggies correctly? What should you peel, and which peels are okay to leave on? Which foods are beneficial for which […]

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VZ 035: Breakfast Protein Options for Vegetarians Feb 16, 2014

One of the questions most persistently asked of vegetarians and vegans is “How do you get enough protein?” As any veg*n will tell you, this question gets old fast. But how do we, especially at breakfast, which really is “the most important meal of the day”. In this episode, we discuss how some traditional breakfast […]

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Bonus 01: Bonus Episode – Health Benefits of Cacao & Chocolate Feb 14, 2014

What’s that, you say? Chocolate is good for you? Okay, okay…before you go out and load up on Whitman’s Samplers at the grocery store, there are a few rules. Many children (and I was one of them) long for the “I can eat anything I want” aspect of adulthood,imagining, perhaps, swimming pools full of Skittles and […]

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VZ 034: Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux Feb 09, 2014

I’m sure many of you have had that ugly, burning feeling in your stomach or throat. You know the one, where it feels like acid is burning holes in your gut. This is a fire that water doesn’t put out, and don’t dare drink milk, which is a notorious acid-producer! Of course modern medicine has […]

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VZ 033: Reasons to Eat Less Dairy Feb 02, 2014

Despite the decades-long campaign that milk and other dairy products are essential for a healthy body, current evidence shows exactly the contrary. The fact that humans are the only species that drink the milk of other animals should be a pretty big clue that it is not meant for us. In-depth research has proven that […]

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VZ 032: Fight Illness and Allergies Naturally Jan 26, 2014

The season of nasty colds, ugly flu viruses and winter allergies is upon us. Coughing, chest congestion, itching and achiness conspire to make us miserable. Television, magazine ads and conventional medicine have taught us to rush to the drugstore and load up on cough syrups and drops, pills for congestion,itching, sniffling and sneezing, medicines to […]

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VZ 031: Lessons Learned in a Year of Being Vegetarian Jan 20, 2014

The beginning of a new year is a good time to reflect on the wins and losses of the previous year. Because this month is also our one-year Veggie-versary, we thought it would be the perfect time to record a retrospective episode of sorts. We discuss the things we think we did well as new […]

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VZ 030: Coming Out As A Vegetarian Jan 05, 2014

Becoming a vegetarian or vegan is a big decision, one which family and friends may or may not agree with. In the end, of course, it is completely personal but as with any major life change, having the support of those around you can make the transition easier. Certain stereotypes about vegetarians and vegans exist […]

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VZ 029: New Year’s Resolutions Dec 29, 2013

From the time we are kids we hear about New Year’s resolutions. Adults make them…and break them. Kids emulate their parents and make them…and break them even faster! What kid wants to actually keep a resolution to clean her room or be nice to his little brother? Although the practice has its origins in pre-Christian […]

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VZ 028: Tim Paige Interview Dec 22, 2013

This episode features our very first interview, with none other than the voice of our podcast intro track, Tim Paige! Besides being a fellow vegetarian, Tim is the co-host, with John Lee Dumas, of the Love Your Leap podcast. Love Your Leap is focused on helping individuals make the transition from a corporate job to […]

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VZ 027: Keeping Pets Safe & Healthy During the Holidays Dec 15, 2013

We’re all busy during the holiday season. Buying and wrapping gifts, making cookies, attending and/or hosting parties, making airport runs, keeping the kids busy, and so much more. With so much going on, sometimes pets can fade into the background a bit. Not that we don’t love them less during this busy time, of course, […]

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VZ 026: Our Lift Coaching Plan to Eat More Vegetables & Fruits Dec 08, 2013

It’s official…we’ve published our very first Lift Coaching Plan, aptly entitled “Eat More Vegetables and Fruits“! We’ve discussed the Lift app before on our podcast, and Vickie wrote a comprehensive blog post, “Three Reasons I Love the Lift Habit-Tracking Application for iPhone”, back in October explaining exactly what Lift is and how it works. Recently […]

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VZ025: Tips for Avoiding Toxic Toys Dec 01, 2013

We all want to protect our kids from harm. We teach them to not talk to strangers and to look both ways when crossing the street. We feed them healthy foods and encourage other healthy habits. We want them to be happy and entertained, so we buy them fun and educational things they want to […]

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VZ 024: Thanksgiving Tips for Vegetarians Nov 24, 2013

When we come together to celebrate the holidays, food is,usually the focal point around which we gather. Further, the centerpiece of most of our holiday meals is meat. Turkey for Thanksgiving. Turkey or goose for Christmas. Ham for New Year’s and Easter. Barbecue for Memorial Day, Labor Day and the Fourth of July. We can’t […]

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VZ 023: Exercise Hacks Nov 17, 2013

Even the most dedicated fitness fanatics sometimes find it challenging to get the job done. For those who don’t enjoy it in the first place, the challenge can sometimes be overwhelming! In this episode, we discuss tips to help keep you motivated and moving toward your fitness goals. We include a wide range of exercise […]

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VZ 022: Oh No! GMO! Nov 10, 2013

Unfortunately, GMOs (genetically modified organisms) have become pervasive in our society today. Often under the guise of increasing crop yields, drought tolerance, or nutritional values, biotechnical companies have created “Frankenfoods” that have delivered on none of these promises. Instead, the primary advantage of these genetically engineered crops is that they are resistant to the […]

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VZ 021: The Importance of Buying Organic Nov 03, 2013

“Buy organic” seems to be a popular buzz phrase these days. With all the talk about genetically-modified foods, the overuse of chemical fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, and the connection of these chemicals with deadly diseases such as cancer, understanding the importance of buying and consuming organic foods is crucial. In this episode, we explore […]

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VZ 020: Tips for a Healthy Halloween Oct 27, 2013

Kids love candy, adults love candy…Halloween is awesome! We all know that candy and other sweet treats are not exactly nutritionally valuable, so in this episode we discuss ways to make Halloween activities a little more healthy for you and your family. From trick-or-treating strategies to healthier candy options for giving (as well as […]

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VZ 019: What’s In Season? Fall Fruits and Vegetables Oct 20, 2013

The Fall season brings us a bounty of wonderful, healthy fruits and vegetables. From the many varieties of winter squash (including the Halloween vegetable mascot, the pumpkin) to apples, pomegranates, cauliflower, root vegetables and dark, leafy greens, Mother Nature provides us an endless supply of healthy meal and snack options. Join us on this […]

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VZ 018: Food and Mood Oct 14, 2013

It’s all too easy to blame our moods on purely external circumstances beyond our control. A bad day at the office caused you to be irritable. You’re tired because you didn’t sleep well last night, or maybe you’re just bored. Even positive moods are generally thought to be caused by things that happen to us […]

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VZ017: All About Beans Oct 06, 2013

Beans and other legumes just may be the vegetarian’s and vegan’s best friends. Pinto, kidney, red, pink, Great Northern, lima…no matter which one you choose, you’ll be picking a winner. Beans — as well as other legumes such as peas, lentils and peanuts — are amazing sources of protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates as […]

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VZ 016: Let’s Celebrate National Kale Day! Sep 29, 2013

National Kale Day is coming up on Wednesday, October 2, and Vegetarian Zen is on board to celebrate it. As NKD ambassadors, we are spreading the word about kale far and wide. To that end, this episode of the podcast is all about kale and its special day. We introduce listeners to the brains […]

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VZ 015: A Review of the Documentary Film Forks Over Knives Sep 22, 2013

Are foods derived from animals the only source of protein for humans? Is drinking cow’s milk necessary for humans in order to get enough calcium? If you answered “no” to both of these questions, you would be correct. You would also be among a small segment of the American population who agrees with you. These […]

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VZ 014: Our Favorite Myths About Vegetarianism Sep 15, 2013

In this episode, we take on some of the most common myths about vegetarianism and veganism. Before becoming vegetarians, we actually held some of these beliefs ourselves. Once we made our lifestyle changes, we began to learn how mistaken we were. For example, we’ve learned that these common misconceptions just aren’t true: Vegetarians do not […]

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VZ 013: This for That – Healthy Recipe Substitutions Sep 07, 2013

Common sense tells us that skim milk is healthier than whole milk, correct? Less fat equals healthier. But what is healthier than skim milk? How about plant and nut milks: soy, almond, hemp, rice, or coconut? Generally lower in fat content (although coconut milk has a high fat content, it is plant-derived, not animal) […]

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VZ 012: Tips to Avoid Being a Junk Food Vegetarian Sep 01, 2013

When we first became vegetarians, we simply stopped eating meat without changing our other bad eating habits. Consequently, we discovered that we did not initially feel as great as we thought we would. We had fallen into an all-too-common trap…we had become Junk Food Vegetarians! Healthy vegetarianism and veganism are about more than just […]

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VZ 011: Surviving Football Season as a Vegetarian Aug 25, 2013

Football season is once again upon us! Whether you’re an NFL fan, a college follower or both, you’ll need to have good strategies in place to maintain your vegetarian or vegan lifestyle while attending tailgate parties, fantasy draft parties, or the games themselves. You can even play host to a party or two yourself without scaring off […]

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VZ 010: Back To School the Healthy Way Aug 18, 2013

Getting ready for back-to-school is hectic, no doubt. Lots to do, too little time to get it all done. Summer was too short (for the kids, anyway!). On top of shots, new clothes, school supplies and convincing the kids that this year is going to be GREAT, you want to ensure that you feed […]

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VZ 009: Why We Love “The Healthy Juicer’s Bible” Aug 11, 2013

When we first became vegetarians, we also became juicers. We did a lot of reading online, of course, but the first book we bought was Farnoosh Brock’s The Healthy Juicer’s Bible: Lose Weight, Detoxify, Fight Disease, and Live Long. It quickly became our go-to reference for all things juicing, from selecting a juicer to […]

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VZ 008: All About Tofu Aug 04, 2013

Tofu…often the first thing that comes to the mind of an omnivore when introduced to a vegetarian; as in, “So, do you eat that tofu stuff? What exactly is that stuff, anyway?” In this episode, we demystify those little white blocks by providing a short lesson about how tofu is made, the different types […]

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VZ 007: Getting Enough Protein as a Vegetarian or Vegan Jul 28, 2013

“If you don’t eat animal products, how on earth are you getting enough protein in your diet?” This is one of the most commonly asked questions regarding living a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Meat, eggs and dairy products provide the majority of protein for omnivores. In Episode 007, we explore this issue, focusing on […]

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VZ 006: Vacationing & Grilling, Vegetarian-Style Jul 22, 2013

In this episode, we discuss two favorite pastimes during the summer season: vacationing & grilling. We offer some great tips for grilling vegetables and fruit, such as marinating, grilling times, and other techniques. We also discuss ways to maintain a vegetarian lifestyle while on the road, including making the most of a great online […]

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VZ 005: Living Healthy with a Vitamix Blender Jul 15, 2013

In the previous episode, we discussed the differences between juicing and blending, and reviewed the juicer we use, the Omega VRT350. In this episode, we offer a review of our blender, the Vitamix 1365 CIA Professional Series. The Vitamix does so much more than what a standard blender or smoothie-maker does. Tune in to this […]

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VZ 004: Juice It Up! Jul 07, 2013

This episode of the podcast is all about juicers and juicing. Vickie explains the differences between juicing and blending, and why they are both important, albeit for unique reasons. We go on to discuss the different types of juicers, exactly how each type works, and the benefits and shortcomings of each. We then launch […]

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VZ 003: Time Is On My Side Jun 26, 2013

One of the most often-used excuses for not living a healthy, active lifestyle is that “there’s not enough time”. In this episode, we offer lots of helpful, time-saving tips for healthy eating, fitting exercise into your daily routine, and being more productive at work and in your personal life. Larissa presents some simple ways […]

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VZ 002: A Life of Spice Jun 26, 2013

In the first part of this episode we discuss the many benefits of spices and herbs and the ways they can be used. Although we mention others, we focus specifically on four: ginger, cinnamon, rosemary and lemon balm. We talk about how using herbs and spices has helped us to keep our diets interesting […]

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VZ 001: Here We Go! Jun 25, 2013

Wow! It’s finally here…the very first episode of the Vegetarian Zen podcast, aptly entitled “Here We Go!”. We’ve been working hard to pack each episode with amazing, informative and entertaining content for you, so here goes! In this first episode we introduce ourselves (and spill a little secret!). We share our journey to becoming […]

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