PLANT the CHANGE: A vegan educator reimagines classrooms to raise conscious, compassionate, healthy kids

Michele Fasnacht
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Education

Seen on YOUTUBE and UNCHAINEDTV, and heard on all major PODCAST PLATFORMS, PLANT the CHANGE is a podcast for parents, families, educators, and changemakers who want to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids in a world full of misinformation, environmental crisis, and emotional disconnection. Hosted by Michele Fasnacht—educator, founder of Solid Rock Community School, Sanctuary at Solid Rock, and Solid Rock Florida; pioneer of Compassionate Humane Education; and advocate for plant-based living, sustainability, and emotional well-being—each episode explores how food, parenting, education, and conscious choices come together to create a more compassionate, eco-friendly world. From plant-based nutrition tips and family-friendly recipes to conscious parenting strategies and emotional growth insights, Plant the Change is your guide to making sustainable choices that nourish your family, protect the planet, and foster positive outcomes for future generations. Michele invites listeners to explore the deep connections between education, empathy, emotional wellness, plant-based living, animal advocacy, and social justice—so we can all take practical steps toward building a kinder, more compassionate world. Each episode is designed to plant seeds of transformation: Feature episodes (30–35 minutes) highlight in-depth conversations with trailblazers—doctors, educators, activists, athletes, media influencers, and thought leaders—who are redefining what it means to lead with values, purpose, and heart. Shorter solo episodes, under the banner of Straight Talk, offer personal insight from Michele herself—unfiltered reflections on compassionate humane education, health journeys, family, sustainability, and behind-the-scenes stories from her work with children, animals, and the broader movement for change. Some of this season’s guests include: - Dr. Michael Greger, renowned physician and author of How Not to Die, on the power of nutrition and disease prevention. - Ocean Robbins, co-founder of the Food Revolution Network, on transforming the global food system. - Jane Velez-Mitchell, journalist and animal rights advocate, on media as a tool for justice and awakening. - Charlie Ward, Heisman Trophy winner and NBA athlete, sharing his personal journey from sports to spiritual purpose. - Vegan Evan, a passionate youth activist, proving that leadership has no age minimum. You’ll also meet plant-based chefs, sanctuary leaders, wellness influencers, and visionary educators—all people who are living proof that change is possible when it's powered by love, truth, and education. More than a podcast, Plant the Change is a movement—a platform to uplift compassionate living, critical thinking, inclusion, and conscious parenting. It was born from Michele’s own story: a journey through trauma, healing, and transformation that led her to reimagine education from the ground up. Her nonprofit school, Solid Rock Community School, equips children to not just learn—but to care, to act, and to find their voice in a complex world. This show is for those who want to raise children—and live themselves—with purpose, clarity, and kindness. Whether you're a parent navigating food choices, a teacher questioning the status quo, or are someone looking to align your values with your lifestyle, this podcast is here to inform, inspire, and empower. Small GIFT! BIG impact. Subscribe for only $4.99/mo and help the Sanctuary at Solid Rock save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida.

  1. 4d ago

    Ep. 45 Renee King Sonnan Pt. 2: How a Cattle Rancher’s Wife Went Vegan

    What happens when a cattle rancher’s wife suddenly realizes she can no longer see the animals she once raised as food? In Part Two of Plant the Change with Michele Fasnacht, Renee “Rowdy Girl” King shares the unexpected moment that changed everything. After years of life on a cattle ranch, Renee’s perspective was transformed by a seemingly simple bowl of beef stew—and she began questioning everything she had been taught about animals, ranching, and her own life. What followed was a dramatic clash between her newfound convictions, her marriage, and the cattle business that had been part of her husband Tommy’s family for generations. In this powerful conversation, you’ll discover: • The unforgettable moment that Renee describes as the catalyst for her vegan awakening. • How she and Tommy navigated a profound transformation that challenged their marriage, livelihood, and family traditions. • How Renee went from secretly sharing her story online to raising money to purchase the cattle and create what became Rowdy Girl Sanctuary. Listen to Part Two to hear Renee’s extraordinary story of awakening, transformation, and the decision to turn a cattle ranch into a sanctuary. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. You can also become a Sanctuary Subscriber on our social platforms. Your monthly support helps provide food, enrichment, medical care, and the daily comfort our animals depend on. For only $4.99 a month, you’ll receive exclusive private posts, behind-the-scenes videos, and eligibility for fun supporter giveaways. It’s a small monthly gift that makes a huge difference in their lives. Please subscribe today on Instagram or Facebook! https://www.instagram.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/ https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

  2. Sep 17

    Ep. 44 Cher Hubsher Pt. 2: From Reality TV to Animal Rescue

    What if living a more compassionate life starts with simply seeing animals differently? Reality TV gave viewers a glimpse into Cher Hubsher’s life—but there was so much more happening behind the scenes. In this part two episode of Plant the Change, Cher and Michele Fasnacht share an honest conversation about her vegan journey, her love of animals, rescuing 22 animals, and the challenges of staying true to your values in a non-vegan world. From navigating restaurants and social situations to using her platform to advocate for animals, Cher shares why she believes in living by example—and why sometimes you simply have to use your voice. In this episode, you’ll discover: • How Cher navigates being vegan at restaurants, events, and with non-vegan friends and family. • Why rescuing animals has deepened her sense of compassion and empathy. • How Cher uses her social media platform to share the side of her life that reality TV never showed. Press play to hear Cher’s inspiring journey and discover how small, compassionate choices can create meaningful change for animals, your health, and your everyday life. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. Small GIFT. BIG impact. Subscribe to the Sanctuary at Solid Rock for only $4.99/mo and help save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

  3. Sep 2

    Ep. 43 Vegan Evan: Teenager who Turned Compassion into a Movement

    Could a 14-year-old be better at changing minds than most adults? At just five years old, Evan chose to go vegan—and by 14, he was already a passionate animal activist, educator, and influencer. In this episode of Plant the Change, “Vegan Evan” shares why he made the decision, how he handles criticism, and why he believes anyone can make a difference regardless of their age. You’ll discover: • How compassion can become a powerful reason to create change • Why there are many ways to get involved in animal activism—without stepping outside your comfort zone • How changing one small habit can create a much bigger impact for animals, people, and the planet Press play to hear how Evan turned a childhood decision into a mission to help others—and why you don’t have to wait until you’re older to make a difference. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. Small GIFT. BIG impact. Subscribe to the Sanctuary at Solid Rock for only $4.99/mo and help save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

  4. Aug 26

    Ep. 42 Niki Becker Pt. 2: Running a Vegan Restaurant

    What do you do when criticism, competition, and negativity threaten to overwhelm everything you've worked so hard to build? In this episode of Plant the Change, Michele Fasnacht sits down with Niki Becker of Green Table for an honest conversation about the challenges of building a business, handling negative reviews, and staying focused when others try to bring you down. Niki shares how some of the most difficult experiences in her journey ultimately made her stronger—and why keeping sight of your purpose matters more than outside opinions. The conversation also explores the practical side of plant-based living, including how to eat affordably, cook simple meals at home, understand food labels, and avoid common misconceptions about going vegan. Listeners will discover: • How to turn criticism and competition into motivation instead of letting them stop you. • How plant-based eating can be affordable, simple, and accessible—even for busy families. • What to look for when reading food labels and why "plant-based" doesn't always mean what you think. Press play to hear Niki Becker's honest story and discover practical ways to stay resilient, eat plant-based on a budget, and keep moving forward with purpose. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. Small GIFT. BIG impact. Subscribe to the Sanctuary at Solid Rock for only $4.99/mo and help save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

  5. Aug 18

    Ep. 41 Dani Giroux Pt. 2: Animal Rescues Help People Too

    What if saving more animals isn’t about doing more—it’s about working together? Animal rescue can be heartbreaking, expensive, and overwhelming—but Dani Giroux, founder of Runaways Animal Rescue, believes the answer is community. In this conversation with Michele Fasnacht, Dani shares what it really takes to rescue animals in need, from life-threatening medical cases to the difficult reality of knowing when to say no. She also explains how shelters, schools, volunteers, fosters, and other community organizations can work together to create more opportunities for animals to find safety and forever homes. • Discover how community partnerships can help rescues save more animals and reach more people. • Hear the powerful story of Tate, a severely injured dog who was given a second chance and ultimately found her forever home. • Learn practical ways you can support animal rescue—even if adopting isn’t an option—including fostering, volunteering, sharing skills, and helping local organizations. Press play to hear Dani Giroux’s firsthand perspective on the challenges, rewards, and community power behind giving animals a second chance. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. Small GIFT. BIG impact. Subscribe to the Sanctuary at Solid Rock for only $4.99/mo and help save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

  6. Aug 14

    Ep. 40 Tarpon Springs FL Mayor John Koulianos Pt. 2: Fit Inside and Out at Age 72

    Could simply changing the foods you eat could improve your health, your mindset, and your impact on the planet all at once? In this episode of Plant the Change, Host Michele Fasnacht talks with Tarpon Springs Mayor John Koulianos about his plant-based journey, staying active (now at 72), running marathons, and how small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Listeners will discover: • How a plant-based lifestyle can become a simple, sustainable part of everyday life—even if you’re not someone who loves to cook. • Why movement, strength, bone health, and cardiovascular fitness can all play important roles in healthy aging. • How individual choices around food and health can ripple outward to affect animals, the environment, community wellbeing, and the future. Play the episode to hear how one mayor’s plant-based lifestyle is inspiring others and a healthier community. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. Small GIFT. BIG impact. Subscribe to the Sanctuary at Solid Rock for only $4.99/mo and help save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

  7. Aug 5

    Ep. 39 Kari Bagnall Pt. 2: Stop Buying Pet Monkeys!

    What if everything you've been taught about zoos, pet monkeys, and conservation isn't telling the whole story? Most people love primates and genuinely want to protect them—but few understand the heartbreaking reality behind the pet trade, captive breeding, and what life is actually like for rescued monkeys. In this powerful conversation, Jungle Friends founder Kari Bagnall shares unforgettable rescue stories, explains why monkeys should never be pets, and challenges common beliefs about zoos, conservation, and animal welfare. In this episode, you'll discover: • The emotional rescue stories behind monkeys like Poochie, Trader Nick, Coco, and the unforgettable "organ grinder" monkeys—and how each one's personality reveals just how intelligent and emotionally complex primates truly are. • Why New World monkeys differ from Old World monkeys, how sanctuaries carefully introduce rescued monkeys to new companions, and why social bonds are essential to their wellbeing. • The hidden realities of the exotic pet trade, captive breeding, and modern zoos—and why education and ethical sanctuary care may offer a more compassionate future for primates. If you've ever loved monkeys, visited a zoo, or wondered what truly happens behind the scenes of wildlife captivity, this episode will challenge your perspective and leave you with a deeper appreciation for these remarkable animals—press play now. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. Small GIFT. BIG impact. Subscribe to the Sanctuary at Solid Rock for only $4.99/mo and help save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

  8. Jul 29

    Ep. 38 Dr Jeffrey Hirschfield: What's Really Making Kids Sick?

    What if the biggest threat to your child's future health is already sitting on their dinner plate? Parents today are facing an alarming rise in childhood obesity, prediabetes, and chronic disease—often driven by everyday food choices. In this eye-opening conversation, pediatrician and lifestyle medicine physician Dr. Jeffrey Hirshfield explains why prevention must begin early and how simple changes in nutrition, movement, and family habits can dramatically improve a child's lifelong health. Drawing from both decades of medical practice and his own life-changing heart attack, Dr. Hirshfield shares why he believes lifestyle medicine is the future of healthcare. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why healthy habits formed during childhood have the greatest impact on lifelong health and disease prevention. • The powerful connection between nutrition, physical activity, emotional well-being, and children's overall development. • Practical, realistic strategies parents can use today to help their families eat healthier, stay active, and reduce the risk of chronic disease. Listen now to discover how small lifestyle changes made today can help your family build a healthier future and prevent chronic disease before it starts. Plant the Change is a podcast about healthier living, plant-based eating, sustainable choices, and compassionate education. Each episode offers insights on plant-based nutrition, conscious parenting, vegan values, and animal rescue—giving parents, families, educators, and changemakers the tools to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids. Rooted in the principles of Compassionate Humane Education, Plant the Change helps inspire the next generation of eco-friendly, compassionate changemakers. Our Compassionate Humane Education (CHE) Framework at CHEImpact.org is now available for schools, sanctuaries, educational programs, and families who want to bring kindness, empathy, and compassion centered learning into their own communities. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or part of an animal rescue or sanctuary team, the CHE Framework provides ready-to use tools that uplift learning environments and build a more compassionate world. For more information or to enroll, visit www.CHEImpact.org today. Subscribe to the Plant the Change podcast today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida and @plantthechangeofficial #PlantTheChange

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Seen on YOUTUBE and UNCHAINEDTV, and heard on all major PODCAST PLATFORMS, PLANT the CHANGE is a podcast for parents, families, educators, and changemakers who want to raise health-conscious, emotionally intelligent kids in a world full of misinformation, environmental crisis, and emotional disconnection. Hosted by Michele Fasnacht—educator, founder of Solid Rock Community School, Sanctuary at Solid Rock, and Solid Rock Florida; pioneer of Compassionate Humane Education; and advocate for plant-based living, sustainability, and emotional well-being—each episode explores how food, parenting, education, and conscious choices come together to create a more compassionate, eco-friendly world. From plant-based nutrition tips and family-friendly recipes to conscious parenting strategies and emotional growth insights, Plant the Change is your guide to making sustainable choices that nourish your family, protect the planet, and foster positive outcomes for future generations. Michele invites listeners to explore the deep connections between education, empathy, emotional wellness, plant-based living, animal advocacy, and social justice—so we can all take practical steps toward building a kinder, more compassionate world. Each episode is designed to plant seeds of transformation: Feature episodes (30–35 minutes) highlight in-depth conversations with trailblazers—doctors, educators, activists, athletes, media influencers, and thought leaders—who are redefining what it means to lead with values, purpose, and heart. Shorter solo episodes, under the banner of Straight Talk, offer personal insight from Michele herself—unfiltered reflections on compassionate humane education, health journeys, family, sustainability, and behind-the-scenes stories from her work with children, animals, and the broader movement for change. Some of this season’s guests include: - Dr. Michael Greger, renowned physician and author of How Not to Die, on the power of nutrition and disease prevention. - Ocean Robbins, co-founder of the Food Revolution Network, on transforming the global food system. - Jane Velez-Mitchell, journalist and animal rights advocate, on media as a tool for justice and awakening. - Charlie Ward, Heisman Trophy winner and NBA athlete, sharing his personal journey from sports to spiritual purpose. - Vegan Evan, a passionate youth activist, proving that leadership has no age minimum. You’ll also meet plant-based chefs, sanctuary leaders, wellness influencers, and visionary educators—all people who are living proof that change is possible when it's powered by love, truth, and education. More than a podcast, Plant the Change is a movement—a platform to uplift compassionate living, critical thinking, inclusion, and conscious parenting. It was born from Michele’s own story: a journey through trauma, healing, and transformation that led her to reimagine education from the ground up. Her nonprofit school, Solid Rock Community School, equips children to not just learn—but to care, to act, and to find their voice in a complex world. This show is for those who want to raise children—and live themselves—with purpose, clarity, and kindness. Whether you're a parent navigating food choices, a teacher questioning the status quo, or are someone looking to align your values with your lifestyle, this podcast is here to inform, inspire, and empower. Small GIFT! BIG impact. Subscribe for only $4.99/mo and help the Sanctuary at Solid Rock save and protect animals every single day: https://www.facebook.com/sanctuaryatsolidrock/subscribe Subscribe today, and join Michele Fasnacht on a journey to plant seeds of purpose, action, and hope—one conversation at a time. Learn more at SolidRockFlorida.org and follow along on Facebook and Instagram @SolidRockFlorida.

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