This episode of Extraordinary with Neman is a powerful conversation with Jessica Cruz, the visionary behind Vegan Street Fair, a vibrant celebration of food, community, and culture that was set to explode in 2020. But when the pandemic hit, everything changed.Jessica shares:• How she built Vegan Street Fair into one of the biggest vegan festivals in the world• The devastating impact of the pandemic on her business and livelihood• Her emotional journey through breast cancer, a double mastectomy, and reclaiming her health• What it’s like to rebuild a dream that was once thriving• The quiet strength behind showing up even when everything feels like it’s falling apartThis is more than a story of survival. It’s about identity, purpose, and the relentless pursuit of joy even when the world says “no.” Jessica’s resilience will move you and remind you that healing is never linear but always possible.Hit play to hear one woman’s fight to rebuild it all: body, business, and belief.

Connect with me on social media: @kalemyname and @nekacgolubovic Connect with Jessica: @veganstreetfair

This week on Extraordinary with Neman, we’re honored to host John Lewis, the powerhouse known to the world as Badass Vegan. From a childhood marked by adversity to becoming a passionate advocate for health, justice, and change, John’s story is one of raw resilience and radical transformation.In this deep, inspiring conversation, we unpack:

• His turbulent early life and how those experiences shaped his character• The moment he discovered plant-based living and why it became his mission• His groundbreaking work in film and advocacy (including They’re Trying to Kill Us)• What it means to be Black, vegan, and vocal in today’s world• The mindset behind building a movement with integrity and impactJohn doesn’t just talk the talk, he lives it with unapologetic passion. Whether you’re into health, justice, entrepreneurship, or just love hearing from people who turn struggle into strength, this episode is packed with wisdom and fire.Hit play and prepare to be inspired by a true badass.

Connect with me on social media: @kalemyname and @nekacgolubovic Connect with John: @badassvegan

Welcome back to my podcast, Extraordinary with Neman! Today I sat down with Dominick Thompson, who, while serving time in federal prison, made a life-altering decision: to embrace a plant-based lifestyle. This choice, rooted in a newfound commitment to nonviolence and self-respect, marked the beginning of a profound personal evolution. As he eliminated meat from his diet, Thompson experienced a surge in vitality and mental clarity, igniting a passion that would define his future. Upon his release, Thompson channeled his renewed purpose into building a life that defied expectations. He ascended the corporate ladder in the healthcare industry, eventually founding his own ventures, including the lifestyle brand “Eat What Elephants Eat” and the ethical apparel line “Crazies and Weirdos.” Simultaneously, he emerged as a formidable athlete, competing in Ironman triathlons and powerlifting events, all while advocating for animal rights and social justice. Thompson’s journey from incarceration to influence is more than a personal triumph; it’s a powerful narrative that challenges stereotypes and inspires change. His unwavering dedication to living a life free from harm, encapsulated in his mantra, “If it requires harm, then nahh,” serves as a guiding principle for those seeking to align their actions with their values.Connect with me on social media: @kalemyname and @nekacgolubovic Connect with Dominick:@domzthompson