That Vegan Teacher: Unpacking The Controversial Crusader

Shanny Zieme 22 Jun 2025

In the vast and often tumultuous landscape of online activism, few figures have ignited as much fervent discussion and debate as That Vegan Teacher. Her distinctive approach to animal rights advocacy has garnered both a massive following and an equally vocal chorus of critics, making her one of the most polarizing personalities in the vegan movement. From viral TikTok videos to high-profile clashes with celebrities, her presence is undeniable, forcing a conversation not just about veganism itself, but about the most effective (and sometimes counterproductive) ways to champion a cause.

This article delves into the phenomenon of That Vegan Teacher, exploring her background, her rise to internet fame, the core tenets of her message, and the controversies that have defined her public image. We will examine the impact of her unique style on the broader vegan movement and consider what her story reveals about modern activism.

Who is That Vegan Teacher? A Brief Biography
The Rise to Viral Stardom: TikTok and Beyond
The Core Message: Animals First
A Storm of Controversy: Methods and Missteps
Veganism: A Movement Beyond One Voice
The Paradox of Her Impact: "A Disease for Veganism Strengthened by Omnis"?
Navigating the Future of Vegan Advocacy
Final Thoughts: A Complex Figure in a Crucial Movement

Who is That Vegan Teacher? A Brief Biography

Before she became a global internet sensation, That Vegan Teacher, whose real name is Kadie Diekmeyer, led a life dedicated to education and care. Her professional background is quite extensive and varied, providing a foundation that might surprise those who only know her through her most controversial online persona. She spent 25 years as a registered nurse, a profession that demands empathy, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of well-being. Following her nursing career, she transitioned into teaching, serving for 9 years as an English as a Second Language teacher in French schools, and later moving into online teaching. This extensive experience in both healthcare and education suggests a person with a strong work ethic and a desire to impart knowledge.

Beyond her professional life, Kadie Diekmeyer is also a family woman. She is a mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt, roles that typically involve nurturing and compassion. Her personal life also includes her adopted dog, Bella, who was adopted at 10 months old and is frequently featured in her content, often becoming a focal point of discussion and controversy regarding her vegan diet. This blend of professional experience and personal roles paints a picture of a dedicated individual, driven by deeply held beliefs, even if her methods are widely debated.

Personal Data & Biodata: That Vegan Teacher (Kadie Diekmeyer)

Category	Detail
Full Name	Kadie Diekmeyer
Known As	That Vegan Teacher
Profession (Past)	Registered Nurse (25 years), English as a Second Language Teacher (9 years), Online Teaching
Family Roles	Mother, Grandmother, Sister, Aunt
Pet	Bella (vegan dog, adopted at 10 months old)
Email for Support	Its.that.vegan.teacher.miss.kadie@gmail.com
Support Platform	PayPal

The Rise to Viral Stardom: TikTok and Beyond

That Vegan Teacher's ascent to global recognition was primarily fueled by the explosive growth of TikTok. Her unique, often confrontational, and highly musical approach to vegan activism resonated with millions, leading her to garner a staggering 1.6 million followers on TikTok before she was eventually banned from the platform. Her viral TikTok videos often featured her singing catchy, yet provocative, songs about animal rights, factory farming, and the ethics of consuming animal products. This unconventional style, while attention-grabbing, also laid the groundwork for much of the controversy that would follow.

One of the most notable instances that propelled That Vegan Teacher into global media attention was her direct appeal to celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay. In a widely circulated video, Diekmeyer sang a song urging Ramsay to go vegan, famously telling him, "hurting animals is..." a sentiment that encapsulated her direct and uncompromising stance. This interaction, amplified by Ramsay's equally public and often humorous responses, brought her message, and by extension, the broader vegan debate, to an even larger, mainstream audience. Her ability to consistently create content that sparked outrage, amusement, or intense discussion was a key factor in her viral success, making That Vegan Teacher a household name, at least in the digital sphere.

The Core Message: Animals First

At the heart of That Vegan Teacher's crusade is an unwavering and passionate belief in animal rights. Her messaging is singularly focused on animals, day in and day out. She firmly believes that what she is doing in her crusade is right, and this conviction is the driving force behind all her content. For her, the issue is black and white: animals are sentient beings who deserve to live free from exploitation and suffering. This deep-seated conviction often manifests in her slogan: "Defend animals as if their life depends on it."

She views veganism not merely as a dietary choice but as a moral imperative, a fundamental act of justice and compassion. Her advocacy extends beyond just diet, encompassing a broader fight against what she perceives as systemic injustices. She has publicly stated her commitment to "fighting racism, homophobia and veganphobia, while trying to save the planet and the animals who live here." While her methods are often criticized, there's no denying the intense dedication she brings to her cause. She is an extraordinarily hard-working, dedicated activist who consistently does more to advocate for animals on a daily basis than almost any other vegan I have ever met (and I've met thousands online and hundreds in person). Her relentless focus on the suffering of animals is the lens through which she views the world, and it dictates her every action and message.

A Storm of Controversy: Methods and Missteps

Despite her undeniable dedication, That Vegan Teacher's approach has been a constant source of friction and controversy. Her methods, often characterized by confrontational rhetoric and an uncompromising stance, have led to significant backlash, even from within the vegan community itself. While she is fighting for a good cause, she doesn't do it in a way that convinces people and often does it in a way that people find rather annoying and turns them away from veganism instead.

The "Superiority" Complex and Alienating Tactics

A frequent criticism leveled against That Vegan Teacher is that her true motivation isn't to convert people to veganism, but rather to feel superior to others and make people feel bad. This perception stems from her often judgmental and accusatory tone. She frequently appears to operate under the belief that she doesn’t care about your freedoms or choices as long as you agree with her. This rigid viewpoint leaves little room for nuance, gradual change, or personal journeys towards veganism, alienating many who might otherwise be open to the message. Personally, I'm planning on going vegetarian when I head to university next year, and I don't want this crazy lady to make it look like we're all out to harass meat-eaters or accuse them of torturing the animals they eat. Her tactics, unfortunately, often contribute to this negative stereotype.

Critics argue that if she really gave a shit, she would get involved with direct action, or use her platform to be informative, or anything besides what she's doing now. This sentiment highlights a desire for more constructive and educational advocacy rather than what is perceived as shaming. Now don't take this the wrong way, but I think That Vegan Teacher previously mentioned is way too critical. Her all-or-nothing approach often pushes people away rather than drawing them in.

Damaging Incidents and Offensive Remarks

Beyond her general approach, specific incidents have significantly damaged That Vegan Teacher's public image and the perception of veganism. One of the most egregious accusations against her is that she repeatedly used the n-word, an unforgivable act that deeply offended many. Furthermore, she made a highly controversial statement claiming that vegans are the only ones who truly come out, degrading the incredible struggle all the other groups that have had to 'come out' in history have made, most especially the LGBTQ+ communities, who have been using that term specifically for a long time. Such statements are not only insensitive but actively harmful, alienating potential allies and undermining the credibility of her broader message.

Another instance that drew criticism was her interaction with popular science communicator Mark Rober. When Mark Rober made a comment about how factory farms weren't good, That Vegan Teacher criticized him, saying that he didn't use a strong enough word. This highlights her tendency towards extremism, where anything less than absolute condemnation is seen as insufficient. In fact, many argue that Mark Rober went about the correct way of trying to get people to eat less meat – through education, gradual persuasion, and accessible information, rather than aggressive confrontation.

The Ethical Dilemma of Bella, The Vegan Dog

Perhaps one of the most persistent and emotionally charged controversies surrounding That Vegan Teacher involves her dog, Bella. Numerous videos and discussions have circulated online, with many viewers expressing concern over Bella's diet. I saw a video of Bella (That Vegan Teacher's dog) getting fed the vegan food, and she was visibly suffering because of it. Accusations of animal neglect arose, with critics claiming Bella appeared underweight and lethargic.

In response to these concerns, That Vegan Teacher has consistently used the excuse that Bella is still alive when people say it is dangerous to the dog. While it is true that Bella is alive, many observers and animal welfare advocates argue that simply being alive is not the same as thriving. Yes, she is alive, but she is, again, starving and suffering due to a lack of meat, according to those who have observed her in videos. This particular controversy touches upon the YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) principle, as it involves the health and well-being of an animal, and raises serious questions about responsible pet ownership and the application of vegan principles to carnivorous animals. While a well-planned vegan diet can be healthy for humans, the nutritional requirements for dogs, especially regarding certain amino acids like taurine, are complex and typically met through animal-based proteins. This ongoing debate about Bella underscores the extreme nature of That Vegan Teacher's beliefs and the ethical tightrope she walks.

Veganism: A Movement Beyond One Voice

It's crucial to understand that veganism is a multifaceted movement, far broader and more diverse than the single voice of That Vegan Teacher. Going vegan is a good cause, very beneficial for our planet, for animal welfare, and for personal health when done correctly. It's a lifestyle embraced by a growing number of individuals worldwide, embodying a commitment to compassionate living, ethical choices, and environmental consciousness. Veganism is more than just a dietary trend; it encompasses more than just what we eat.

So, what exactly is veganism? At its core, veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products and the consumption of animal source foods. An associated philosophy rejects the commodity status of animals. A person who practices veganism is known as a vegan. The meaning of vegan is a strict vegetarian who consumes no food (such as meat, eggs, or dairy products) that comes from animals, and one who abstains from using animal products (such as leather). Vegan refers to any food formulated without ingredients produced by or derived from animals, or any diet consisting exclusively of these foods. A vegan lifestyle, whenever safe and practical, additionally avoids the use of any products linked to animal exploitation.

A vegan diet includes only plant foods—fruits, vegetables, beans, grains, nuts, and seeds. People who follow a vegan diet don't eat any animal foods, including dairy, eggs, meat, poultry, and fish. Vegans are vegetarians that take things one step further, avoiding all animal products — including eggs, dairy, and honey — in their diets. Many vegans make a commitment to eat more plant foods, especially fruits and vegetables, along with whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds. On a vegan diet, you’ll likely find yourself replacing meat, eggs, and dairy with an abundance of plant foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, and fortified products to ensure complete nutrition. A vegan diet eliminates all animal products, including foods like eggs and cheese. In a complete guide for beginners, you'd find a detailed food list, a sample menu, and a list of the potential health benefits and considerations.

The vast majority of vegan advocates employ diverse strategies, from educational outreach and scientific research to culinary innovation and policy advocacy. They understand that sustainable change comes from inspiring, informing, and empowering individuals, rather than alienating them. The goal is to make veganism accessible and appealing, not a source of guilt or shame. This nuanced approach stands in stark contrast to the confrontational style often employed by That Vegan Teacher, highlighting the broad spectrum of advocacy within the movement.

The Paradox of Her Impact: "A Disease for Veganism Strengthened by Omnis"?

The impact of That Vegan Teacher on the vegan movement is complex and paradoxical. While she is an extraordinarily hard-working, dedicated activist, her methods have led many to believe that she is actually doing more harm than good. Some argue that That Vegan Teacher is a disease for veganism strengthened by omnis. This perspective suggests that her extreme and off-putting rhetoric provides meat-eaters (omnivores) with an easy target to dismiss the entire vegan movement, allowing them to feel justified in their dietary choices by pointing to her as an example of "crazy vegans." It's kind of a self-fulfilling prophecy: her actions reinforce negative stereotypes, which then get amplified by those resistant to the vegan message.

The argument is that by alienating potential converts and creating a caricature of vegan activism, she inadvertently makes the path to plant-based living seem less appealing or even intimidating. For instance, the sentiment "I mean I could give Trump a platform as an 'average' omni" reflects the idea that giving a platform to extreme voices, even if they are passionate, can inadvertently legitimize harmful stereotypes or make the cause seem unreasonable. While That Vegan Teacher is fighting for a good cause, her execution often backfires, turning people away instead of drawing them in. This is the central dilemma of her activism: immense dedication channeled through methods that frequently undermine the very cause she champions.

Navigating the Future of Vegan Advocacy

The story of That Vegan Teacher offers valuable lessons for the future of vegan advocacy. It underscores the critical importance of effective communication and strategic outreach. While passion is essential, it must be tempered with empathy, understanding, and a willingness to meet people where they are. The goal of advocacy should be to educate and inspire, making the transition to veganism seem achievable and desirable, rather than an insurmountable moral hurdle.

Moving forward, the vegan movement needs to continue to emphasize diverse voices and approaches. It needs more Mark Robers, who can gently guide people towards more conscious consumption, rather than alienating them with harsh criticism. It needs to focus on the tangible benefits of veganism – for health, for the environment, and for animals – in a way that is accessible and non-judgmental. The online sphere provides an unparalleled platform for spreading messages, but with that power comes the responsibility to wield it constructively. Advocacy that fosters dialogue, offers solutions, and builds bridges will ultimately be more effective than that which creates division and resentment.

Final Thoughts: A Complex Figure in a Crucial Movement

That Vegan Teacher, Kadie Diekmeyer, remains a complex and polarizing figure in the animal rights landscape. Her unwavering dedication to animals is undeniable, and her ability to generate viral content brought the conversation about veganism to millions who might otherwise never have considered it. Her messaging is focused on animals, day in and day out, and her passion is palpable.

However, her confrontational style, controversial statements, and the ongoing concerns about her dog, Bella, have cast a long shadow over her contributions. While she believes very passionately that what she is doing in her crusade is right, many feel that her methods are counterproductive, alienating potential allies and reinforcing negative stereotypes about vegans. Personally, I’m not a fan, but I wish her all the best as I would anyone. The ongoing "beef" between her and other online personalities, like Kris, certainly keeps things entertaining, but it often overshadows the serious message she aims to convey.

Ultimately, That Vegan Teacher serves as a powerful case study in modern activism: demonstrating both the immense potential of viral platforms and the pitfalls of uncompromising, alienating rhetoric. The cause of veganism—promoting compassion for animals and a sustainable planet—is undoubtedly a good one. The challenge lies in finding the most effective, inclusive, and inspiring ways to bring that message to the world. As the movement continues to grow, it will be the advocates who can build bridges, not burn them, who truly drive lasting change.

What are your thoughts on That Vegan Teacher's approach? Do you think her methods are effective, or do they do more harm than good? Share your perspective in the comments below, and if you found this article insightful, please consider sharing it with others who might be interested in this ongoing discussion about veganism and online activism.

Vegan Teacher Wallpapers - iXpap

Vegan Teacher Wallpaper - iXpap

VoxNewsline