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

Michele Fasnacht

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. 18h ago

    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

  2. 4d ago

    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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. Jul 15

    Ep. 37 Drs Angela and Koushik Reddy: The Discovery That Changed Their Practice

    Can two practicing physicians go through 16 years of medical training and still miss one of the most powerful tools for preventing and reversing chronic disease? After years of practicing medicine, Drs. Kaushik and Angela Reddy discovered evidence that challenged everything they thought they knew about preventing and treating chronic disease. In this inspiring conversation, they share how their daughter's compassion, a chance TV program, and lifestyle medicine transformed both their family and their careers—and why they believe nutrition deserves a much bigger role in healthcare. • Discover the surprising moment that led two doctors to rethink everything they learned in medical training. • Learn why lifestyle medicine and nutrition are becoming powerful tools in preventing and even reversing chronic disease. • Gain practical inspiration to build healthier habits by connecting your daily choices to the life you truly want to live. Press play to hear the remarkable journey that changed two physicians' lives—and may completely change the way you think about your own health. 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. Jul 9

    Ep. 36 Lunchtime Liberation!

    What if your child’s lunchbox could teach compassion, justice, health, and sustainability? Every school meal helps shape what children see as normal. This episode with Michele Fasnacht explores how parents, teachers, and school leaders can make plant-based food familiar, joyful, and inclusive—without relying on shame, restriction, or perfection. You’ll discover how to help children build healthier eating habits, introduce compassionate food choices at home and at school, and connect what is on their plates with empathy, environmental responsibility, equity, and justice. Play the episode to learn how small, compassionate food choices can help raise a healthier and more conscious generation. 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

  7. Jul 1

    Ep. 35 Jane Velez-Mitchell Pt. 2: From Sobriety to Honesty to Activism

    What if the life you're trying so hard to make look perfect is keeping you from becoming your authentic self? Many people struggle with hiding parts of themselves—whether it's addiction, identity, past mistakes, or beliefs that don't fit societal expectations. In this Part 2 episode, Jane Velez-Mitchell shares how embracing honesty transformed every area of her life and why authenticity is often the first step toward true freedom. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why authenticity becomes possible only when we stop performing for others and start accepting ourselves. • How Jane's three life-changing transformations—sobriety, coming out, and embracing veganism—helped her find greater purpose and peace. • Why vulnerability has the power to inspire change, strengthen connection, and encourage others to live more courageously. If you're ready to let go of perfection, embrace your authentic self, and hear an inspiring story of transformation, press play and join this powerful conversation with Jane Velez-Mitchell. 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. Jun 24

    Ep. 34 Ocean Robbins Pt. 2: The High Price of Cheap Food

    What if the food choices you make every day could help protect the planet, improve your health, and create a more just food system? In part two of Michele’s conversation with Ocean Robbins, they explore how plant-based living reaches far beyond personal wellness. This episode connects the dots between food, climate change, water use, deforestation, school nutrition, social justice, and long-term health. For anyone who feels overwhelmed by the state of the world, Ocean offers a powerful reminder: every bite is a chance to participate in meaningful change. Listeners will: - Learn how eating lower on the food chain can reduce environmental damage and support a healthier planet. - Gain insight into why food access, health disparities, and social justice are deeply connected. - Discover how school gardens, plant-based meals, and nutrition education can help children build healthier habits for life. Listen to this inspiring episode to discover how your daily food choices can become a powerful act of hope, health, and positive change. 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

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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