Raising GenV

DOMINICK THOMPSON

Episode Summary

In this powerful episode, Naomi Hallum sits down with Dominick Thompson, a vegan advocate, author of Eat What Elephants Eat, and founder of a vegan nutrition program by the same name. Dom shares his transformative journey from prison to becoming a compassionate vegan athlete, entrepreneur, and "fur parent." They discuss everything from the emotional connection between humans and animals to breaking stereotypes around masculinity and veganism. Dom’s message is rooted in compassion—for animals, the environment, and marginalized communities impacted by factory farming. Naomi and Dom leave listeners with an empowering message: It’s never too late to align your actions with your values. Whether it’s embracing compassion for animals, protecting the environment, or improving your health, every choice matters. Dom’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and hope.

Episode Notes

In this powerful episode, Naomi Hallum sits down with Dominick Thompson, a vegan advocate, author of Eat What Elephants Eat, and founder of a vegan nutrition program by the same name. Dom shares his transformative journey from prison to becoming a compassionate vegan athlete, entrepreneur, and "fur parent."

They discuss everything from the emotional connection between humans and animals to breaking stereotypes around masculinity and veganism. Dom’s message is rooted in compassion—for animals, the environment, and marginalized communities impacted by factory farming.

Naomi and Dom leave listeners with an empowering message: It’s never too late to align your actions with your values. Whether it’s embracing compassion for animals, protecting the environment, or improving your health, every choice matters.

Dom’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion, and hope.

Key Takeaways

The Power of Compassion:

• Dom shares how his dog, Scruff McFly, helped him rediscover his heart after prison. Their bond taught him vulnerability and patience.
• Losing Scruff was heartbreaking, but the experience allowed Dom to open his heart again and practice compassion in all areas of life.

From Prison to Veganism:

• Dom recalls a defining moment in prison when he connected meat to the animals he loved as a child. This realization inspired his mantra: “If it requires harm, I don’t want anything to do with it.”

Protein Myths and Vegan Fitness:

• Dom debunks the myth of protein deficiency in plant-based diets, sharing how his strength and health improved after transitioning to veganism. In prison, he even excelled in weightlifting competitions.
• Naomi and Dom discuss how the food industry hides the reality of meat production to make it more palatable, disconnecting consumers from the truth.

“Eat What Elephants Eat”:

• Dom started a viral campaign with his slogan “Eat What Elephants Eat” to highlight that some of the strongest animals are herbivores. This grew into a successful nutrition program and book designed to make veganism accessible and affordable.

Redefining Masculinity:

• As one of the first men of color to promote veganism, Dom advocates for redefining masculinity to include compassion and empathy. He emphasizes that being vegan doesn’t make you less masculine—it can make you stronger and more protective of others.

Environmental Racism and Consumer Choices:

• Dom highlights how factory farming harms marginalized communities, from polluting neighborhoods to exploiting undocumented workers in dangerous conditions. He urges consumers to consider the broader impact of their food choices.

It’s Never Too Late to Change:

• Dom shares his journey as an ex-felon who rebuilt his life and encourages listeners to believe in their potential, no matter their past. “Never judge a book by its cover,” he says.
• Naomi reminds listeners to have compassion for themselves during the transition to veganism, emphasizing that even small steps can make a big difference.

Resources Mentioned

• Eat What Elephants Eat by Dominick Thompson: Simon & Schuster
• Eat What Elephants Eat Nutrition Program: Website

Time-Stamps & Key Topics

• [01:15] Introducing Dominick Thompson: From Prison to Compassionate Vegan Advocate
  [02:35] Rediscovering Compassion Through Fur Babies
  [03:17] The Life-Changing Bond with Scruff McFly
  [05:53] Compassionate Beginnings: Dom’s Early Connection to Animals
  [14:13] A Defining Moment in Prison: Aligning Actions with Values
  [19:18] Transitioning to Veganism: A Journey of Resilience and Hope
  [22:02] The Disconnect Between Food and Animals: Breaking the Illusion
  [24:45] From Prison to Vegan Advocate: Building a New Life
  [24:57] Building a Vegan Empire: Crazies and Weirdos
  [28:18] Eat What Elephants Eat: Making Veganism Accessible
  [30:06] Redefining Masculinity Through Compassion and Veganism
  [33:26] The Intersection of Veganism and Social Justice
  [37:05] A Cookbook with a Cause: Vegan Recipes for Change
  [41:42] A Story of Redemption and Hope: Dom’s Inspirational Journey
  [43:12] Closing Thoughts: Empowering Listeners to Align with Their Values