308: Raising Vegan Babies with Ashley Renne

Discover the transformative power of living a compassionate, plant-based life with my guest, Ashley Renee Nsonwu. In a heart-to-heart that's as nourishing for the soul as it is for the body, Ashley – an environmental advocate, author, and vegan mom – shares her journey from an eye-opening experience in Bali to creating delectable vegan recipes for the whole family. Laugh and learn with us as we explore the colorful world of banana beet pancakes suitable for tots to teens, and discuss Ashley's dedication to making plant-based nutrition knowledge widespread, particularly in communities facing climate change and health disparities. 

The conversation dives into the cognitive shift required when transitioning to veganism and addresses the concerns many parents have about protein, calcium, and vitamin D for their growing children. We delve into what it means to raise children in a global context, contemplating the modern American dream and the enriching potential of world schooling. So, tune in and let's embrace change together, creating a future that's kinder to all living beings and our precious planet. 

Ashley Renne Nsonwu, a Black American and South Asian environmental advocate, is renowned for her roles as a vegan mom, author of "The Vegan Baby Cookbook and Guide," and a beacon of daily inspiration for sustainable family living. Invited to The White House in 2022 and 2023, she met with the US President and Vice President, championing climate causes. With appearances on CNN and Good Morning America, her work resonates widely, aiming to bridge individual actions with systemic change. Through @HeyAshleyRenne, she empowers communities, especially those of color, to combat climate change and promote plant-based nutrition in schools. 

Discussion points: 

• Ashley Renee Nsanwu shares her transformative journey to veganism 

• Vegan family cooking and nutrition education for children 

• Societal pressures and myths surrounding raising vegan children 

• The broader impact of animal agriculture on marginalized communities 

• How plant-based diets are shaping compassionate Generation Alpha 

• Common anxieties parents face when choosing a plant-based lifestyle for kids 

• Is it unethical to raise a child vegan? 

• Veganism can lead to a cascade of positive life changes 

• Ashley's book "The Vegan Baby Cookbook and Guide" with pediatric advice 

• Community support for plant-based parenting, plant-based school cafeteria options 

• Redefining success and finding joy in life beyond material achievements 

• The potential for world schooling and exposing children to global perspectives 

• Gratitude for Ashley's inspiration and the community dialogue it fosters 

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