Album Notes

A long-time vegan and animal activist, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau focuses her energies primarily on animals raised for food, though she came to be a voice for animals first through working on behalf of those in shelters, puppy mills, and research laboratories.

Raised on a typical American diet of meat, dairy, and eggs, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau was shocked by what she learned when she read John Robbins' Diet for a New America at 19. No longer able to justify eating mammals, Colleen began a journey of discovery that continues to this day. Eventually she included fish in her circle of compassion, and after reading Slaughterhouse, it became clear to her that no animal raised for human consumption - whether for their flesh, milk, or eggs - escapes the horrors and cruelties of slaughter. Determined to raise awareness about animal suffering, she founded Compassionate Cooks to be a voice for the over 45 billion land and sea animals killed every year in the U.S. for human consumption. Her work is dedicated to them.

Colleen is the author of the award-winning "The Joy of Vegan Baking: The Compassionate Cooks' Traditional Treats and Sinful Sweets" and "The Vegan Table: 200 Unforgettable Recipes for Entertaining Every Guest at Every Occasion" (to be released June 2009). She is the producer of the popular podcast "Vegetarian Food For Thought."

Having earned a master’s degree in English Literature, Colleen uses her writing and communication skills to raise awareness of the animal issues about which so many people are unaware. A sought-after and inspiring public speaker on the spiritual, social, and practical aspects of a vegan lifestyle, Colleen has appeared on the Food Network, is a columnist for VegNews Magazine, and she is a contributor to National Public Radio. She is very grateful to have the opportunity to witness transformations taking place in people as they gain the tools and resources they need to reflect their values in their daily choices.