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. 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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. Jun 17

    Ep. 33 Steve Jenkins Pt. 2: Esther was famous and smart!

    What if one rescued pig could change the way millions of people see animals, compassion, and what it means to create a kinder world? In this episode of Plant the Change, Michele Fasnacht continues her discussion with Steve Jenkins, known for raising Esther the Wonder Pig, about the unexpected power of animal relationships, sanctuary work, and the ripple effect that happens when people are invited to see animals as individuals. Through stories of Esther’s intelligence, humor, friendships, fears, and freedom, this conversation helps listeners rethink what compassion can look like in everyday life, education, and community change. Listeners will discover: • Why pigs are far more intelligent, emotional, and clean than many people realize. • How Esther’s story grew into a worldwide movement of kindness and animal advocacy. • How sanctuaries and schools can work together to teach empathy, compassion, and respect for all living beings. Play this episode to hear how Esther’s story continues to inspire a more compassionate future for animals, schools, and communities everywhere. 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. Jun 10

    Ep. 32 Compassion is Core

    What would change if compassion stopped being treated like an “extra” in education—and became the very foundation for how we teach, parent, lead, and repair harm? In a world where many children are pressured to comply, stay quiet, or manage emotions they were never taught to understand, this episode Michele Fasnacht challenges parents and educators to rethink what real growth looks like. Instead of choosing between total freedom and rigid control, it explores a more human approach—one where structure, accountability, emotional safety, and compassion work together to help children become conscious, courageous, and caring people. In this episode, listeners will discover: • Why traditional control-based systems often silence children instead of supporting their growth. • How Compassionate-Humane Education creates space for accountability, repair, emotional maturity, and leadership. • Why practices like Reflection Circles and student ambassadors can help children learn empathy, responsibility, forgiveness, and real-world conflict resolution. Listen to this episode to discover how leading with compassion can transform schools, homes, and communities into places where children are not just managed—but truly seen, supported, and prepared for 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. 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 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. Jun 3

    Ep. 31 Dr Michael Klaper Pt. 2: It’s Been the Food All Along!

    What if the solution to better health, stronger values, and a more compassionate future for our children started with what we put on their plates? In this Part 2 episode, Michele Fasnacht concludes her discussion with Dr. Michael Klaper. They explore how plant-based nutrition can impact personal health, global health, sustainability, and the way we educate the next generation. Together, they discuss the rise of chronic disease, the influence of fast food culture, the challenges plant-based schools face with funding, and how families can begin making healthier choices at home without feeling overwhelmed. Listeners will walk away with: - A deeper understanding of why plant-based eating can help prevent and reverse many diet-related health issues. - Practical ways parents can introduce more plant-based meals at home through familiar foods, simple breakfasts, soups, salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and family favorites. - Encouragement to see every meal as an opportunity to model compassion, sustainability, integrity, and positive change for children. Press play to hear Dr. Klaper’s powerful perspective on why every meal matters and how plant-based choices can help create a healthier, kinder future for our children and the planet. 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

  8. May 27

    Ep. 30 Gary Yourofsky Pt. 2: How One Speech Sparked Change

    What happens when one activist’s fight for animals leads to arrests, bans from five countries, thousands of lectures, and a message that changes lives? In this powerful second part of Michele’s conversation with Gary Yourofsky, listeners are invited to look honestly at activism, animal rights, veganism, and the challenge of helping people change without demanding perfection on day one. Gary shares how his early protests evolved into education, why speaking from the victim’s perspective matters, and how even small shifts can move people toward greater compassion. Listeners will gain: • A deeper understanding of how Gary’s activism evolved from protests and civil disobedience into life-changing lectures. • Insight into why education, ethics, health, and open conversations can all play a role in helping people reduce harm to animals. • Encouragement to keep planting seeds of change, even when progress feels slow or imperfect. Play this episode to hear a raw, thought-provoking conversation that will challenge how you think about activism, compassion, and the power of speaking up for animals. 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

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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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