Chantal Bekhor: From School teacher to Plant-Based Pioneer

In this deliciously inspiring episode of Maverick Makers, host Michelle Daides chats with Chantal Bekhor, the founder of VG Gourmet—a brand that’s changing the way we think about plant-based eating.Before launching VG Gourmet in 2015, Chantal was an elementary school teacher with a love for cooking and a deep belief in the power of a plant-based lifestyle. Frustrated by the lack of wholesome, ready-made vegan options, she took matters into her own hands (literally!)—crafting burger recipes in her home kitchen using real vegetables, beans, walnuts, mushrooms, and fresh herbs. No preservatives, no fillers, no fake meat—just real food done right.Her philosophy is simple: if you want people to eat better, you have to give them something that’s both practical andgourmet. That’s exactly what she’s done—with products now in over 2,500 stores and restaurants across Canada, and a growing number of raving fans who send thank-you emails just for making their weeknight dinners easier and healthier.In this episode, you’ll hear: How Chantal turned her craving into a thriving national brand The challenges and surprises of launching a food business from scratch Why "real ingredients" is more than just a label—it’s a movement Chantal’s story is one of passion, persistence, and staying true to your roots—even when the industry is pushing the opposite. Whether you're plant-based curious or a longtime foodie, this convo will leave you inspired to eat—and live—a little more intentionally.Tune in now and discover how a teacher-turned-founder is feeding a fresh kind of plant-based movement, one mouthwatering bite at a time.