How Going Vegan Transformed Our Lives Forever

What if one decision could completely reshape your health, mindset, and career? For Danielle and Jeremy Stevens, this journey began with adopting a plant-based lifestyle in 2020. From leaving behind successful corporate careers to co-founding Vine Vegan, their story is not only inspiring but deeply transformative. In this blog, we’re diving into their experience, from the initial challenges of going vegan to the profound impact it’s had on their lives. Whether you’re curious about a plant-based diet, navigating major life changes, or starting your own business, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s get into it!How Going Vegan Transformed Our Lives Forever

From Corporate Hustle to Intentional Living

Danielle and Jeremy each had over 20 years of corporate experience under their belts, but life had other plans. When Danielle lost her father to heart disease in 2019, it became a wake-up call. A friend recommended they watch Netflix’s documentary "The Game Changers," and what began as hesitation turned into a complete lifestyle overhaul. “I never imagined going vegan,” Danielle said. “The thought of never eating steak or chicken again sounded so boring.”

Jeremy, however, decided to dive in first, inspired by the health benefits highlighted in the documentary. “I’ve always been focused on health and fitness. Watching how these athletes thrived on plant-based diets was eye-opening,” he shared. The shift didn’t just change their plates—it changed their lives.

The Health Transformation That Followed

The results were nothing short of incredible. Jeremy noticed improved energy and better recovery from workouts, while Danielle saw dramatic improvements in her overall health. “I lost 85 pounds, my asthma disappeared, and even my chronic allergies were gone,” she revealed. “I felt like I was aging backward.” Jeremy echoed similar sentiments, saying, “I’ve never felt stronger or more energetic in the gym.”

Initially, the couple relied on convenience foods like plant-based burgers and processed alternatives, but they quickly realized the importance of whole, nutrient-dense options. “We transitioned from junk vegan food to legumes, lentils, seeds, and fresh vegetables. It became about fueling our bodies the right way,” Danielle explained.

Building Vine Vegan: Merging Passion with Purpose

Their newfound passion for veganism extended beyond their own plates. In 2021, they opened Vine Vegan, a restaurant designed to make plant-based eating accessible and delicious for everyone. “Our goal was to blow the minds of carnivores,” Danielle said with a laugh. “We wanted people to realize vegan food could be both satisfying and flavorful.”

Opening a restaurant was no small feat, especially during a pandemic. “It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Danielle admitted. “But every time I walk into Vine Vegan, I feel proud. It’s worth it to see customers, many of whom aren’t even vegan, enjoy our food.”

Lessons for Navigating Life’s Challenges

Beyond their dietary shift, Danielle and Jeremy have learned valuable lessons about resilience, balance, and intentional living:

Embrace Change Gradually: “We made a lot of mistakes early on, but we learned as we went. It’s okay to start small and figure things out,” Jeremy said.
Stay Flexible: “We didn’t pressure our kids to go vegan. We simply exposed them to delicious plant-based options, and over time, they made their own choices,” shared Danelis.
Mindset is Everything: “Stress is inevitable, but worrying about things you can’t control doesn’t help. Focus on what you can do and trust the process,” she advised.
Gratitude Changes Everything: “Every morning, I ground myself by standing barefoot in the grass and reflecting on what I’m thankful for. It’s a powerful way to start the day,” Danelis shared.

Advice for Entrepreneurs

Starting a business, especially one as challenging as a restaurant, is not for the faint of heart. Here’s their advice for budding entrepreneurs:

Jump and Trust the Parachute Will Appear: “You may not have all the answers, but sometimes you just have to take the leap and figure it out along the way,” Danielle said.
Be Prepared to Work Hard: “Entrepreneurship is rewarding, but it’s also a grind. Be ready to put in the hours and make sacrifices,” Jeremy added.
Have a Contingency Plan: “Things might not go as planned, and that’s okay. Always have a backup plan and give yourself grace,” Danielle emphasized.

The Bigger Picture

For Danielle and Jeremy, going vegan was about much more than food—it became a gateway to intentional living, better health, and meaningful work. “We’ve learned to align our actions with our values and focus on what truly matters,” Jeremy said. Their journey is a testament to the power of choice and the incredible transformations that can follow.

What changes have reshaped your life? Whether it’s your health, mindset, or career, we’d love to hear your story. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to live intentionally!