If you’re new here, welcome! This is a recent email I sent to my wonderful community over on Substack, where I share weekly reflections, plant-based living tips, and lots of encouragement for anyone looking to step away from diet culture and embrace a more joyful, sustainable lifestyle.

If you’d like to get messages like this straight to your inbox (and join in the conversation), I’d love to have you there. You can subscribe for free or become a paid supporter if you’d like a few extra perks along the way. You can find me at The Plant Based Grandma Substack.

Why I’m Opening the Door to More Connection on Substack

Hi friends,

I wanted to take a moment to share a little update with you about something I’ve been thinking a lot about lately.

Some of you know that I’ve been offering audio voiceovers for all of my articles as a perk for paid subscribers. I had hoped it would be a nice little extra since I was already recording them anyway. But something unexpected happened… because the voiceovers are behind the paywall, it also closed off the comment section to free subscribers—and I’ve heard from a few of you that you’d really like to join the conversation.

And honestly? I want that too.

This space was never meant to feel like an exclusive club. My hope is for it to feel more like a cozy kitchen table, where we can all pull up a chair and share our hearts. Connection means everything to me—especially for those of us who’ve spent far too many years trapped in diet culture. We all deserve places where we can speak freely, support one another, and grow together.

So, starting this month, I’ll be opening the comment section to everyone again. That means you’ll be able to share your thoughts, encouragement, and your own journey—no paid subscription required.

Here’s What Paid Subscribers Can Look Forward To

But don’t worry, paid subscribers will still be getting something special each month. I’m introducing a new little gift called the Plant Based Grandma Monthly Bundle. It’s a warm, simple collection of goodies sent at the beginning of each month, and it might include things like:

  • A short love note from me (just something personal and encouraging)

  • A quote or mantra to keep you grounded

  • A favorite pantry pick or plant-based tip

  • And each month I’ll mix in a little bonus—maybe a mini recipe, a printable, a Q&A, or a fun throwback post from the archives

Nothing overwhelming. Just a gentle hug in your inbox. Something made with heart to thank you for supporting my work.

I’m really excited about this shift. It feels more aligned with why I started The Plant Based Grandma in the first place—to help people find healing, connection, and joy. I hope you’ll love the new format as much as I already do.

As always, thank you for being here. Your presence and support truly mean the world to me.

Expect Miracles!
Until next time,
Julene