Season 2 Episode 33: The first vegan VegFest in New Mexico with Nancy Arenas

We're thrilled to welcome Nancy Arenas, a devoted vegan advocate and the founder of Sprouting Social and the nonprofit organization Sprouty Compassion. Nancy's journey started with the launch of an e-magazine, New Mexico Vegan, featuring stories about individuals transitioning to veganism. She expanded her efforts by creating Vegan for Kids, a magazine to support and spread positive messages to younger audiences. Nancy also organized the first vegan VegFest in New Mexico, an annual event that she continued to host even amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Beyond her magazine and VegFest, Nancy furthered her passion for veganism, offering Vegan Cooking Classes at Natural Grocers and later establishing Sprouty Compassion. Her work primarily targets non-vegans and the veg-curious, aiming to promote veganism through compassionate and respectful dialogue. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, she pivoted to digital platforms, launching the mini-podcast Vegan Pulse to continue the conversation on veganism. Her efforts are marked by patience, understanding, and a strong desire to change society's perception of animal suffering.

Nancy Arenas' Discussion Highlights:

● Her journey towards veganism, the creation of the New Mexico Vegan and Vegan for Kids magazines, and the impact of these platforms.
● The inception of the first vegan VegFest in New Mexico, its challenges and triumphs, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
● The establishment of Sprouty Compassion and its role in supporting community outreach programs.
● The importance of reaching non-vegans and the veg-curious audience through respectful and compassionate dialogue.