Hey Yall, I’m Jenny Kate — Plant-Based Southerner.
I’m from Birmingham, Alabama, and grew up in middle Tennessee, where food meant comfort, family, and tradition. Fried okra, cornbread, and banana pudding were staples at our table—and I loved every bite.
Sundays revolved around big family meals where the kitchen was the heart of the house and stories were told between passing the biscuits.
My momma always had a garden, so fresh vegetables were part of daily life. Those early years gave me a love of food that was about more than what was on the plate—it was about connection.
College Curiosity
In college, I met my first vegan and was fascinated. As an English major lost in Keats and Kerouac, I was searching for meaning—and food became part of that journey. Late-night talks over coffee and noodles turned into deep conversations about health, purpose, and how we nourish ourselves.
That curiosity never left me.
A New Perspective in Korea
Years later, while stationed in South Korea with the U.S. Air Force, I explored Buddhism and began seeing food not just as fuel but as a way to honor health, community, and mindfulness. Those experiences planted the seed for what would become my plant-based lifestyle.
A Personal Turning Point
When my daddy passed away at just 58, it changed everything. He struggled with weight, migraines, high blood pressure, and cholesterol.
I believe with all my heart that if he’d had access to healthier habits, he would have lived longer. His story drives me every day—to help others eat better, feel better, and live longer, fuller lives.
From Passion to Purpose
Today, I’ve paired passion with purpose. I hold a Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from Cornell University and have developed, tested, and photographed more than 125 original recipes for my upcoming cookbook.
Together with my husband, Travis, I run Plant-Based Southerner, where we share recipes, tips, and everyday encouragement to make plant-based living doable for real people and real families.
Meet Travis — My Partner in Life and Kitchen
Travis and I met on active duty. He’s from Los Angeles—about as different from small-town Down South as it gets!
No, he wasn’t plant-based when we met (just in case you’re picturing a sandal-wearing California hippie). But he was passionate about health and fitness. After joining the Air Force, he transformed his body through diet and exercise and still scores a perfect 100 on his annual fitness test—at the 25-year-old standard, in his 40s!
We bonded through service, travel, and wellness. When Forks Over Knives came out in 2011, Travis went cold-turkey plant-based. The science confirmed what I believed about my father’s health and it spoke to Travis’s scientific side.
How We Eat — What Does “Plant-Based” Mean?
Simply put, plant-based eating means filling your plate with foods that come from plants—beans, grains, fruits, veggies, nuts, and seeds.
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Vegans avoid all animal products (even leather or honey).
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Vegetarians often include eggs or dairy.
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Plant-based eaters focus mostly on the health benefits of whole foods—though many also care deeply about animals and the planet.
In our home, we don’t use meat or dairy, and we cook without added oil, sugar, or salt whenever possible. But we’re not rigid—especially when traveling. As Dr. John McDougall says, “A little salt or sugar helps the medicine go down,” and we agree.
Because here’s the truth: perfection kills progress. We’re not here to judge or preach. Whether you’re just veg curious or all-in plant-based, you’ll find hearty, budget-friendly recipes here that bring Southern comfort food to the plant-based table.
Our Mission
The mission of Plant-Based Southerner is simple: to teach, inspire, and empower people to eat more plants—without giving up the joy of Southern food.
Whether you’ve been plant-based for years or you’re just starting, this space is for you. We’ll show you how vibrant, delicious, and doable it can be to eat more plants while celebrating the flavors and traditions we love.
Food is the cornerstone of health—and I’m here to make that cornerstone delicious, affordable, and fun. Around here, we like to keep things bright, welcoming, and just a little bit sunny—because healthy food should lift your spirits as much as it fills your belly.
Meet Our Cheerful Guides
And speaking of sunshine—meet our cheerful guides, Sunnie Chef and Sunnie Farmer!
These little rays of light represent the bright, positive spirit behind Plant-Based Southerner. Whenever you see a Sunnie pop up, think of it as a smile from the kitchen—reminding you that healthy eating can be joyful, not stressful.
The Sunnies are more than mascots—they’re the heart of our community. One day, we hope everyone who joins us on this journey will call themselves a “Sunnie,” because together we’re spreading warmth, kindness, and good food that makes people feel good about eating plants.
Whether it’s a cheerful reminder in your inbox or a friendly face on our site, the Sunnies are here to bring joy, encouragement, and a little Southern sunshine to your plate.
Let’s Stay Connected
We’re always happy to answer questions, recreate your favorite recipes, or just lend an ear.
Reach out anytime—we’d love to hear your story and help you on your plant-based journey.