In this episode of the Vegans Explore Podcast, we take an honest look at why Veganism feels quieter right now. With restaurants closing, menus changing, and fewer viral moments driving the conversation, it’s easy to assume the movement is losing momentum. But the full story is more complex.
We revisit the documentary-driven boom between 2017 and 2019, when films like Cowspiracy, What the Health, and The Game Changers created cultural lightning rods that brought millions of people into plant-based eating and Vegan curiosity. We explore how much of that growth was fueled by trend energy, experimentation, and lifestyle interest, and why that matters when momentum slows.
The episode also breaks down how COVID disrupted community, restaurants, events, and social reinforcement, making it harder for people without a deeply rooted “why” to sustain the lifestyle. Rather than framing this moment as failure, we discuss why this quieter period is a natural valley and an opportunity to rebuild with stronger foundations.
Finally, we talk about what may drive the next wave of Vegan growth, why it may not come from within the movement, and why community, visibility, and real-life examples are more important than hype alone.
Whether you’re a Pre-Vegan, longtime Vegan, entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, or simply curious, this episode offers context, clarity, and a grounded look at what comes next.
About the Show
The Vegans Explore Podcast is on a mission to record a new episode every day until November 1, 2026, spotlighting Vegan topics, changemakers, nonprofits, and brands from around the world. Explore additional episodes.
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