Speaking Events

An inspiring and energetic public speaker, Compassionate Cooks founder Colleen Patrick-Goudreau speaks to audiences all around the country about the joy of compassionate, sustainable living. Join her as she travels the country with her book, The Joy of Vegan Baking and debunks the myths surrounding a vegan lifestyle.

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Topic Descriptions

Whether you are curious about vegetarianism, are new to vegetarianism, are a long-time vegan, or have ever asked where vegetarians get their protein, you will walk away from Colleen's talks inspired, informed, and enlightened.

No Sacrifice: Upholding our Values and Honoring Traditions at the Holidays and Everyday: People tend to experience a certain amount of shock at the idea that vegans eschew turkeys on Thanksgiving, lambs on Christmas, eggs during Passover, “corned beef” on St. Patrick’s Day, dairy-based foods during Hanukkah, and “ham” on Easter. At best, non-vegans may express pity for those not partaking in these “standards”; at worst, they may accuse vegans of “flying in the face of tradition,” of committing cultural blasphemy, implying that certain practices are justifiable simply because they’re embedded in the “culture” and sanctified by “tradition,” as if that’s all the reason we need to justify our behavior. In this informative and empowering lecture, Colleen reminds us that however much we romanticize the notion of tradition, our attachment to it is not as tenacious as we think. Drawing on history as well as common sense, she demonstrates that we can indeed adhere to traditions while honoring our values. We need not sacrifice one for the other.

Being a Joyful Vegan in a Non-Vegan World: Survival Tips & Tactics: Though there are many resources available that support the practical aspects of a vegan lifestyle, many people struggle with the emotional toll that comes with the awareness of so much animal suffering. In this inspiring, empowering, and informative lecture, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau offers survival tips for dealing with the social and emotional pressure and explains why she considers herself a “joyful vegan,” despite the painful awareness of the socially sanctioned exploitation and abuse of non-human animals.

Getting to the Meat of the Matter: Debunking the Myths about Being Vegan: "Being vegan is limited and restrictive." "Being vegan is about being perfect and pure." "Vegans are angry." These are just some of the myths about a plant-based diet that leave people disempowered, confused, and fearful of experiencing what is truly a joyful, rewarding lifestyle. Through this entertaining and informative lecture, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau provides people with the tools and resources they need to not only become joyful vegans but to stay joyful vegans. She also arms advocates with some helpful information so they can respond to the myths with compassion and authority. The more we can dispel these myths, the more we can empower people to make compassionate, healthful food choices with confidence and enthusiasm.

From Excuse-itarian to Vegetarian: Addressing the Blocks that Keep People from Making Changes: "I tried eating vegetarian, but I just craved meat." "I don't eat a lot of meat." "I don't have time to chop vegetables." "Eating vegan is more expensive." Combining humor and wisdom to tackle the most popular excuses for not eating a plant-based diet, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau leaves no rationalization unexposed and offers sound and practical tips for living a life that reflects the values of sustainability, compassion, and simplicity.