Plant Based Curious

Diane Randall, M.A., CHC, AADP
  • 4.9 (86)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Are you curious about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle but don’t know where to begin? Welcome to The Plant-Based Curious Podcast—your essential guide to a healthier, more sustainable, and fulfilling life. Join your host, Diane Randall, a certified holistic coach, life coach, and whole living consultant with over 23 years of experience leading a plant-based and vegan lifestyle, as she becomes your friendly companion on the journey to thriving with plants. Each bi-weekly episode explores plant-based nutrition, the transition to vegan living, holistic wellness, and the empowering science of behavior change. Diane combines her personal stories, practical tips, and expert insights to help you navigate your shift with confidence and joy. You’ll also hear from inspiring guests—including nutritionists, holistic health practitioners, athletes, and everyday success stories—who share their experiences, debunk myths, and offer actionable advice to make plant-based living simple and sustainable. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a curious vegetarian, or an omnivore simply looking to add more plants to your plate, this podcast is a judgment-free zone for learning, growing, and transforming your life—one bite at a time. Got questions, feedback, or a story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us using the link in the show notes or reach out to us at https://www.plant-basedcurious.com. Tune in, get inspired, and let’s explore the vibrant world of plant-based living together. Your journey starts here!

  1. DEC 14

    The 30-Year Vegan's Guide to Starting Out - A Conversation with Marla Rose

    In one of our most popular episodes ever from Season 1, I had an incredibly grounding conversation with my guest, Marla Rose, the founder of VeganStreet.com. We tackled the questions and fears that held me back for so long, and that I know stop so many of you: Is going vegan too expensive? How do I deal with my family's skepticism without causing a scene? With over 30 years of lived experience, Marla offered the kind of compassionate, no-nonsense advice I wish I'd had when I started. We talked about why courage is more important than perfection, how to build meals around cheap, staple foods, and her brilliant "broken record" technique for handling tough social situations with grace. She also shared the amazing free resource she created: her "Guide for New Vegans," which is the ultimate starter toolkit to cut through the overwhelm. This episode is a dose of reassurance and practical strategy for anyone who's curious, struggling, or just needs a friendly reminder that this journey is about progress, not perfection. I still go back to this conversation when I need a boost, and I think you'll find it just as valuable. Mentioned in this episode: VeganStreet.com’s Free Guide for New Vegans: https://www.veganstreet.com/guidefornewvegans.htmlSend us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    39 min

  2. AUG 10

    Gut Health, Mood & Longevity Hacks: Rewire Your Metabolism with Martin Pytela

    In this episode of Plant Based Curious, I sat down with functional medicine expert Martin Pytela to uncover the hidden connections between your gut, mood, and metabolism. We dive deep into why wheat can be as addictive as heroin, how your ancestors’ diet holds the key to optimal health, and a simple 2-meal test to discover whether carbs or fats work best for YOUR body. Martin also shares his top longevity hack (hint: it’s not what you’d expect) and why 75% of mood-related prescriptions could be avoided with the right food choices. If you’ve ever struggled with bloating, fatigue, or emotional eating, this conversation is your roadmap to healing—starting with your next meal. 👉 Want Martin’s free quiz to discover your metabolic type? Grab it at life-enthusiast.com—and let us know your biggest aha moment by tagging @plantbasedcurious. Until next time, stay curious and nourished!  Send us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    27 min

  3. JUL 27

    Reversing Heart Disease with Plants – A Powerful Transformation Story (Ft. Lauren Bernick)

    "What if you could actually reverse chronic disease—not just manage symptoms? Today’s guest proved it’s possible."   I’m your host Diane Randall, and in this eye-opening episode of Plant-Based Curious, I sit down with Lauren Bernick, a health advocate who completely transformed her heart health through plant-based nutrition after receiving a terrifying diagnosis in her 40s.   Here’s what you’ll discover:   ❤️ The shocking moment her cardiologist said statins for life were her only option—and why she refused to accept that prognosis   🌱 The exact nutritional approach that helped reverse her coronary artery disease (without medication!)   💪 7 powerful mindset shifts about aging—from redefining self-care to becoming your own health advocate   🍎 Simple food swaps that made plant-based healing practical and sustainable   ⚡ The unexpected benefits she experienced—from effortless weight loss to renewed energy. What moved me most was hearing how:   • Our medical system often fails to offer real solutions   • Food can be either poison or medicine—and we get to choose   • True healing requires both science and self-trust   This conversation is perfect for anyone who:   • Has ever felt dismissed by their doctor   • Wants proof that lifestyle changes can reverse disease   • Is curious about plant-based healing but needs a real-life example   Listen now and get inspired to take charge of your health journey!   Send us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    30 min

  4. JUN 22

    REPLAY: A Holistic Path to Plant-Powered Living (Season 1 Fan Favorite!)

    I’ll never forget this powerful conversation with Jordan Simon—one of those exchanges where everything just clicked. We dove deep into how fear holds us back from transformation, why whole living isn’t about perfection, and the magic that happens when we align our plates with our purpose.   As a holistic coach, I shared tools I’ve used with clients (and myself!) to break through limiting beliefs—because going plant-based isn’t just about food. It’s about cultivating courage, redefining health, and discovering how every compassionate choice ripples outward.   This episode is especially close to my heart. We unpack:   How to reframe fear as fuel for growth  The surprising connection between gut health and intuition  Why ‘progress over purity’ changes everything  Whether you’re new here or a longtime listener, this replay is your reminder: small steps create big shifts. Visit dianerandallconsults.com for free resources to keep the momentum going!   P.S. Text me by clicking on “Send us a Text” in the description of the episode with your biggest takeaway—I’ll share my favorite responses in a future episode! ) Send us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    51 min

  5. JUN 8

    Honoring Heritage, Plant-Based Style: Jan Brandenburg’s Appalachian Kitchen Revolution

    Join host Diane Randall for a soulful conversation with Jan Brandenburg, Appalachian native, longtime vegan, and author of The Modern Mountain Cookbook: A Plant-Based Celebration of Appalachia. Jan shares how she’s won over her meat-loving family with veganized comfort food, the emotional ties between tradition and ethics, and her top tips for making plant-based living accessible—even in the heart of biscuit-and-gravy country.    Key Takeaways:  Start Where You Are   Jan’s advice for beginners: “Think of your favorite foods—master 3 plant-based versions, and build from there.” (Example: Her crowd-pleasing vegan mac and cheese!)    Appalachian Vegan Magic   How to reinvent smoky, hearty flavors without meat: liquid smoke, smoked salts, and tamari bring umami depth to classics like cornbread and broccoli casserole.    Holidays Without Compromise   Jan’s secret to stress-free vegan feasts: “Cook the dishes you love, but plant-based. No one misses the meat when the flavors are right.”    Aquafaba Breakthrough   The game-changing ingredient that let Jan recreate her grandmother’s meringue pies (hint: it’s hiding in your chickpea can!).   Handling Skeptics with Grace   Responding to “Why be so extreme?”: “It’s not about judgment—it’s my choice to live in alignment with my values.”    Featured Recipes & Tips:   Pantry MVP: Liquid smoke for bacon-esque flavor in greens, beans, and cornbread.  Comfort Food Hack: Vegan broccoli casserole (no condensed soups!).Seasonal Star: Ramps (wild Appalachian leeks) in spring dishes.   Connect with Jan:   Cookbook: The Modern Mountain Cookbook  Instagram: @appalachianvegan Listener Call-to-Action:   Swap one family recipe with a plant-based twist voice (message us @PlantBasedCurious!).  Grab Jan’s book for vegan biscuits, gravy, and pies that honor Appalachian roots.    Send us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    18 min

  6. MAY 25

    Gut Health Secrets: How Your Microbiome Holds the Key to Weight Loss, Energy & Longevity with Anu Simh

    In this eye-opening episode, Diane Randall sits down with Anu Simh, functional health coach and gut health guru, to explore how your microbiome holds the key to weight loss, energy, and longevity. Anu debunks probiotic myths, exposes how processed foods starve good bacteria, and shares why sleep is non-negotiable for gut balance. Learn how a 1-week plant-based shift can transform your microbial health, why Ozempic harms muscle, and how to build a “forever gut” with simple, sustainable habits. Whether you’re battling bloat or chasing longevity, this episode is your roadmap to thriving from the inside out.    Key Takeaways    🌱 Gut Health 101   Your microbiome is a “gift” passed from mother to child (via birth) and thrives on fiber (aim for 40-45g/day!).  A resilient microbiome fights pathogens, prevents inflammation, and produces 90% of your serotonin (your “happy hormone”).  Ultra-processed foods starve good bacteria and feed harmful ones (think: gas, bloating, brain fog).   Poor sleep and stress erode microbial diversity in as little as 1-2 nights.  A plant-forward diet reduces saturated fat (harmful to mitochondria) and feeds microbes with diverse fibers.  1 week of eating plants can radically shift your microbiome (backed by the Pittsburgh/South Africa diet swap study).  You can’t out-supplement a bad diet. Probiotics are temporary; grow your own bugs with fiber-rich foods.  Choose probiotics with specific strains (e.g., Lactobacillus ruteri for gut integrity, BB Lactis 12 for constipation).   Resources Mentioned   Anu’s Book: Flourish From Within: Feed Your Gut for Lifelong Health (Pre-order here) Follow Anu:  Instagram | Website  Listener Action Steps   Add chia seeds to oatmeal, snack on roasted chickpeas, or blend veggies into smoothies. Finish meals by 6-7 PM to align with circadian rhythms (gut microbes need rest too!). Toss ultra-processed snacks. Stock almSend us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    35 min

  7. MAY 11

    The Science of Fasting, Longevity, and Reversing Biological Age with Dr. Joseph Antoun

    This episode is a game-changer for anyone seeking to optimize their healthspan, combat chronic disease, and understand the revolutionary science of fasting-mimicking diets (FMD). Dr. Joseph Antoun, a physician-scientist and longevity pioneer, unveils how to "hack" aging at the cellular level, exposes hidden dangers in the food industry, and shares actionable steps to reverse biological age. Perfect for:   Those curious about fasting, autophagy, and metabolic health.  Anyone managing diabetes or seeking sustainable weight care.  Listeners tired of quick fixes and eager for science-backed longevity strategies.   Key Takeaways Fasting-Mimicking Diets (FMD) vs. Traditional Fasting:    FMD triggers autophagy (cellular detox) by Day 3 without starvation.   ProLon’s 5-day plant-based kit reverses biological age by 2.5 years per cycle (3 cycles/year = ~11.5 years younger over 20 years).  Diabetes & Metabolic Health:   FMD addresses root causes (aging cells, muscle loss, insulin resistance) — 66% reduce diabetes meds in 6 months.   Ozempic/GLP-1 drugs accelerate muscle loss (equivalent to 20 years of aging), while FMD preserves muscle. Food Industry Secrets:   U.S. companies legally hide additives under 2% (e.g., silica in protein powders).  ProLon’s “longevity pantry” (clean protein, almond-cacao spreads) prioritizes transparency.  Daily Longevity Habits:   Eat dinner by 6 PM, prioritize breakfast.  Focus on daily movement (not just gym sessions) to maintain muscle.    Resources Mentioned   ProLon FMD Kit: Prolonlife (use this link to purchase) Diabetes Remission Program: L-Nutra Health Book: The Send us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    55 min

  8. APR 27

    Plant-Based in a Mixed Household: How to Keep Everyone Happy (ft. Alison Corey)

    In this episode of the Plant Based Curious Podcast, host Diane Randall chats with Alison Corey (creator of Keeping the Peas and author of Weeknight Vegans).  Allison shares game-changing tips for balancing taste buds, reducing resistance, and making meals everyone actually wants to eat. Learn how to turn chili night vegan, win over picky eaters, and save time with smart prep—no separate meals required!   Key Takeaways:   You don’t need to go 100% plant-based overnight. Begin with one meal (e.g., lentil chili, burrito bowls) and build momentum.  Remind yourself why you’re doing this (health, animals, environment) to stay motivated through pushback.  Veganize comfort foods: Swap ground beef for lentils in chili, use cashew cheese in mac ‘n’ cheese, or try teriyaki tofu bowls.  Alison’s mantra: “Make it familiar, make it flavorful, and they won’t miss the meat.Build Buddha bowls with grains, roasted veggies, beans, and sauces (like tahini dressing or cilantro vinaigrette). Let everyone customize their toppings! Batch-cook staples (rice, lentils, roasted veggies) for quick assembly on busy nights.  Involve kids/spouses in meal choices: “What looks good to you?” reduces friction.   Standout Quotes:   “You’re a changemaker—even small steps influence your family’s habits.”  “Normalize plant-based meals. Soon, they won’t even ask where the meat is.”  “Burrito bowls are my secret weapon. Everyone cleans their plate!”  Resources Mentioned:   Alison’s Blog & Recipes:  Keeping the Peas  Cookbook: Weeknight Vegans Meal Prep Essentials: Canned beans, quinoa, tahini, frozen veggies Listener Action Steps:   Try a “Taco Tuesday” Makeover: Use seasoned lentils instead of beef.  Involve Your Family: Let kids pick a plant-based recipe to try each week.  Meal Prep Sundays: Cook 2-3 grains/legumes for easy bowl meals.   Share the Love: BSend us a text Support the show Ready to Take Your Plant-Based Journey to the Next Level? Let this episode be your starting point! Dive deeper with our free resources and supportive community designed to help you thrive. Get Your Free Tools: Grab our FREE GUIDE—your starter kit for plant-based success. It’s packed with plant-based lifestyle, hoslistic wellness tools and simple tips. Find Your Community: Join our Plant-Based Curious Group Coaching for ongoing motivation, live Q&As, recipes, and a community that's rooting for you. Continue Your Learning: Explore our Workshops, Blog Posts, and Resource Library for expert knowledge that grows with you. Grab the Ultimate Guide: For a complete roadmap, get your copy of "A Whole Life Nourished: Plant-Based Living with a Holistic Approach." It’s everything you need in one place. Your healthiest, happiest life starts here. Let’s make it happen together! 👉 Get Instant Access to All Resources Now ...

    31 min
See All (56)

4.9
out of 5
86 Ratings

About

Are you curious about the benefits of a plant-based lifestyle but don’t know where to begin? Welcome to The Plant-Based Curious Podcast—your essential guide to a healthier, more sustainable, and fulfilling life. Join your host, Diane Randall, a certified holistic coach, life coach, and whole living consultant with over 23 years of experience leading a plant-based and vegan lifestyle, as she becomes your friendly companion on the journey to thriving with plants. Each bi-weekly episode explores plant-based nutrition, the transition to vegan living, holistic wellness, and the empowering science of behavior change. Diane combines her personal stories, practical tips, and expert insights to help you navigate your shift with confidence and joy. You’ll also hear from inspiring guests—including nutritionists, holistic health practitioners, athletes, and everyday success stories—who share their experiences, debunk myths, and offer actionable advice to make plant-based living simple and sustainable. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a curious vegetarian, or an omnivore simply looking to add more plants to your plate, this podcast is a judgment-free zone for learning, growing, and transforming your life—one bite at a time. Got questions, feedback, or a story to share? We’d love to hear from you! Connect with us using the link in the show notes or reach out to us at https://www.plant-basedcurious.com. Tune in, get inspired, and let’s explore the vibrant world of plant-based living together. Your journey starts here!

Information

  • Creator
    Diane Randall, M.A., CHC, AADP
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Diane Randall Consults 2023
  • Show Website
    Plant Based Curious

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