We’re continuing the protein conversation I started in Are You Getting Enough Protein? (Part One and Part Two). In those episodes, I unpacked why amino acids from plant and animal sources are identical, why the RDA is just a minimum, and why being intentional about protein matters as we level up in age and fitness.

Paid subscribers enjoy printable resources and my recipe for Homemade Seitan, so join the club today!

In this episode,

* I explain why “lean protein” really means plants.

* I show why plant protein being “less concentrated” is actually a feature, not a bug.

* I share why the protein-to-calorie ratio is such a helpful measurement, especially if your goal is fat loss and muscle gain.

* I focus on plant foods that are both protein-rich and practical to eat (spoiler: I’m not eating 5 tablespoons of spirulina a day).

* I parse out the 4 categories of protein-rich plant foods:

* 🌟 Superstars: 15–20 g per 100 calories

* ⭐ Standouts: 10–14 g per 100 calories

* 💪 Solid Performers: 5–9 g per 100 calories

* 🌱 Sustainers: 3–5 g per 100 calories

* I provide product suggestions and practical ways to incorporate these foods into your everyday meals.

* …and so much more.

Paid subscribers enjoy printable resources and my recipe for Homemade Seitan, so join the club today!

Food for Thought is a listener-supported podcast. If you value the work that goes into these episodes and articles, please consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

You can now watch the video version of the podcast!

Support the Podcast

To keep Food for Thought Podcast ad-free and accessible to all, I rely on the support of paid subscribers. If you're already one—thank you. If you’re not, please consider becoming one. None of the companies below sponsored this episode. They’re simply brands I personally use, love, and trust—which is why I agreed to be an affiliate.

If you make a purchase using the links below, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you—and you’ll receive exclusive discounts using the codes provided!

* Complement SupplementsEverything you need, nothing you don’t. Complement makes targeted supplements for plant-based eaters, including B12, D3, DHA, and more—all from clean, trusted sources.🔗 lovecomplement.com | Code: JOYFULVEGAN for 15% off all products!

* Plaine ProductsRefillable, non-toxic, plastic-free personal care products like shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body wash. Gentle on you, gentle on the planet.🔗 plaineproducts.com | Code: JOYFULVEGAN for 20% off all products!

* Nama JuicerMy favorite cold-press juicer—quiet, powerful, and easy to clean. It’s become an essential part of my kitchen.🔗 namawell.com | Code: COLLEEN10 for 10% off all products!

Additional Resources

👉 Connect with me 1:1 – Get personalized guidance whatever you are looking for. (One one-on-one connection is also a perk of the Founding Member/VIP level here on Substack.)

👉 Read A Year of Compassion – Daily inspiration to help you live with intention, kindness, and clarity.

👉 Travel with me! I host animal-friendly, luxury, all-inclusive vegan trips around the world, specifically curated to ensure high-quality, high-touch premium experiences. Check out our upcoming trips, and let me know if you have any questions.

👉 Check out my Recipe E-Books and my library of On-Demand Cooking Classes for recipes.

If you found this episode helpful, please consider giving it a like, share, comment, or restack. It is free to read, but your support as a paid subscriber helps me continue creating content that inspires compassion and action—for animals, people, and the planet.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.colleenpatrickgoudreau.com/subscribe