Our Hen House: Vegan & Animal Rights Movement | Stories from the Frontlines of Animal Liberation

This very special extra episode is a compilation of interviews we have conducted over the years with our dear friend and passionate animal advocate Sherry Colb, who, as you may know, died last month. These interviews range from our first encounter with Sherry, when she came on to talk about her book, Mind if I Order the Cheeseburger? And Other Questions People Ask Vegans, to an interview, along with Michael Dorf,  about their book Beating Hearts: Abortion and Animal Rights, to a discussion on the Animal Law Podcast about her choice to teach a law school class in Animal Rights rather than Animal Law, and a few shorter appearances to enlighten us on specific issues. They are all characterized by her incisive thinking, her clarity of thought, her sometimes biting sense of humor and, fundamentally, her unrelenting advocacy for animals. Sherry Colb was the C.S. Wong Professor of Law at Cornell Law School. She had been valedictorian of her high school class and then valedictorian of her class at Columbia College. After Harvard Law School, she clerked with Second Circuit Judge Wilfred Feinberg and then Supreme Court Justice Harry Blackmun. She was frequently quoted in The New York Times and elsewhere, and was a prolific writer, including in her regular columns on Verdict and Dorf On Law. Beyond her amazing genius, she was also a truly wonderful person and will be dearly missed. Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

Tamara Human is the definition of a fearless, compassionate leader and activist, and this week she joins the podcast from Kyiv, Ukraine. Tamara is the force behind Every Animal, a Ukraine-based NGO founded in 2019 committed to mobilizing the vegan movement among Ukrainians. In our conversation, the founder shares how Every Animal is supporting vegan soldiers on the frontlines of the ongoing war. Tamara also tells us about Every Animal’s food giveaways through the NGO’s Vegan Kitchen Ukraine program, and how they go about feeding soldiers, volunteers, and those displaced by the war. Plus, she outlines the difficulties the country’s  animal shelters are currently facing and how Every Animal is supporting their efforts to get animals to safety. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Mariann’s interview with Tamara Human.* Tamara Human is the founder of the Ukrainian organization Every Animal, a vegan NGO committed to promoting veganism and the animal rights movement. Every Animal was founded in 2019 and, in addition to responding to the current emergency, is known for its vegan educational outreach, street actions, and for encouraging vegans to become involved in activism and in rescuing animals in need. “We’re not only helping people who need it, we’re also spreading the vegan message.” – Tamara Human Highlights for Episode 660:  How Every Animal helps Ukrainian soldiers obtain vegan food Every Animal’s food giveaways and how they make vegan dishes to share with soldiers and civilians displaced by war Why the NGO has to be flexible with the recipes they offer due to food shortages Reactions to veganism during these desperate times and why Tamara feels that Ukrainians are more receptive than ever to understanding animals’ needs How Every Animal gets the word out about their Vegan Express online course How Tamara likes to approach messaging around animal cruelty and animal agriculture Why Tamara believes there is a difference between being vegan and following a plant-based diet How the Every Animal street action program worked to normalize veganism in Ukraine before the war Why Every Animal created the first children’s book about animal rights in Ukrainian How listeners can support Tamara’s work   Resources: Sherry Colb – remembrance by Michael Dorf Sherry Colb – Verdict Mind If I Order The Cheeseburger Beating Hearts: Abortion and Animal Rights Miyoko’s Creamery is offering our listeners 15% off! Ethos Farm Project Farm Days Event Connect with Tamara Human: Every Animal Website Tamara Human on Instagram Every Animal on Instagram Every Animal on YouTube Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part by Miyoko’s Creamery. From their humble beginnings with 4 employees in Miyoko’s home kitchen, to a 30,000 sq ft. state-of-the-art facility in Sonoma, Miyoko’s Creamery is leading the way in transforming the future of the creamery. Miyoko’s Creamery is changing perceptions of vegan food, to inspire people from all walks of life to enjoy a phenomenally vegan lifestyle and right now our listeners can get 15% off by visiting their website and checking out with code HENHOUSE15. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

The brilliant karol orzechowski joins the podcast this week, and we couldn’t be more thrilled! karol currently serves as the Content Director for Faunalytics, a nonprofit whose mission is to empower animal advocates with access to thorough, reliable data. While Faunalytics is best known for using research and statistics to strengthen pro-animal, anti-suffering activism, the organization is now also producing visual resources. karol shares why Faunalytics decided to incorporate visuals and how they hope access to this new resource will help animal activists. We discuss recent factsheets Faunalytics has created, including one detailing the pros and cons of cultured meat and another about the greyhound racing industry. karol also outlines what’s next for the Faunalytics visual program and how they plan to move forward and share their data as widely as possible. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Jasmin’s interview with karol orzechowski.* karol orzechowski is an animal advocate with a passion for blending activism and art. In addition to producing numerous short films on various animal issues, karol is the director of Maximum Tolerated Dose, a full-length documentary about the psychological toll of vivisection on both animals and humans. When he’s not working for Faunalytics, karol is usually planning, hosting, or performing events in his local arts scene. “Our mission is to empower animal advocates with reliable data.” – karol orzechowski Highlights for Episode 659:  Why Faunalytics decided to begin producing visual resources How the visual program is organized and information contained within its three key categories: Fundamentals, Infographics, and Explainer Videos  The  five Fundamental themes: Farmed Animals, Research Animals, Companion Animals, Wildlife, and Animals & Social Justice Why Faunalytics chose to create Fundamentals  The importance of finding reliable data for the Animal & Social Justice Fundamental The individuals on the Faunalytics research team and how their academic backgrounds support their work in animal activism  Why the Fundamentals are some of Faunalytics’ most popular resources  Who the visual resources are designed for, and how karol hopes they will be used to further the animal rights cause  How to access all of Faunalytics incredible visual content and support their efforts Resources: Eat Plants, Save the Planet registration European Vegan Summit Animal Liberation, a public art exhibit Belse Plant Cuisine A Peek at Big Beef’s Playbook Connect with karol orzechowski: Faunalytics Website Faunalytics on Facebook Faunalytics on Twitter Faunalytics on Instagram Faunalytics on YouTube  Faunalytics on LinkedIn Office Hours for Pro Bono Research Support: faunalytics.org/ask-us Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

We’re honored to welcome Andrew Rowan, DPhil, to the podcast this week for a critical conversation about companion dogs and poverty. Dr. Rowan has a long tenure in the animal protection movement and is currently the President of WellBeing International, an NGO dedicated to achieving optimal wellbeing for animals, people, and the environment. He joins us today for a discussion about a recent book that he co-authored with Arnold Arluke, Underdogs: Pets, People, and Poverty. Based on a study that involves two communities, one in the United States and one in Central America, Underdogs examines the role that income inequality plays in how people relate to their companion animals across countries and cultures. Dr. Rowan discusses the realities of accessing veterinary care and outlines the barriers members of low-income communities often face when seeking medical care for their companion animals. Plus, Dr. Rowan shares how different organizations in the US and abroad are working to improve the lives of animals living in poverty.  *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Mariann’s interview with Andrew Rowan.* Andrew Rowan founded the Tufts Center for Animals and Public Policy and started the first graduate degree in the world on animals and public policy in 1995. He is the founding editor of Anthrozoos and author and editor of numerous books on human-animal issues, including the four-volume State of the Animals series. He is president of WellBeing International, a new NGO seeking solutions for people, animals, and the environment. “Poverty affects not just people, but the animals they share their homes with.” – Andrew Rowan Highlights for Episode 658:  Key contrasts between the lives of animals when they live with wealthy guardians vs. guardians living in poverty Underdogs’ focus on two specific locations, one in the US and the other in Costa Rica, and fundamental aspects of poverty such as limited access to affordable, basic vet care Why pets in low-income communities are less likely to be sterilized How the shelters El Refugio in Costa Rica and the Humane Society of Charlotte, NC are funded to support low-income guardians How shelters have changed the way Costa Ricans deal with their companion animals in interesting and helpful ways Some of the barriers, in addition to finances, that keep people from going to an animal shelter The importance of modeling gold standard care for companion animals  Why one of the goals of the animal protection movement should include protection from eviction and how that would help animals  Why being secure in one’s ability to care for an animal properly can help people value animals more Wellbeing International, why Andrew and his wife founded it, and why it is essential to see people, animals, and the environment as intertwined systems Ways that Wellbeing International is seeking solutions for people, animals, and the environment   Resources: Register for Eat Plants, Save the Planet Stop horsing around: Advocates demand end to carriage industry after Midtown horse collapses Swiss factory farming ban to be decided at the ballot box Miyoko’s Creamery is offering our listeners 15% off! Connect with Andrew Rowan: WellBeing International Website Underdogs: Pets, People, and Poverty by Arnold Arluke and Andrew Rowan Animal Voices Book Series Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part by Miyoko’s Creamery. From their humble beginnings with 4 employees in Miyoko’s home kitchen, to a 30,000 sq ft. state-of-the-art facility in Sonoma, Miyoko’s Creamery is leading the way in transforming the future of the creamery. Miyoko’s Creamery is changing perceptions of vegan food, to inspire people from all walks of life to enjoy a phenomenally vegan lifestyle and right now our listeners can get 15% off by visiting their website and checking out with code HENHOUSE15. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

Christopher “Soul” Eubanks is an unstoppable force, and we’re thrilled to welcome him back to the podcast this week to discuss his new nonprofit, APEX Advocacy. The organization is committed to increasing the number of activists from the global majority. Christopher describes the three central missions driving APEX Advocacy: the Black Vegan Everything website highlighting Black-owned businesses, the Global Majority Caucus committed to building greater equity in the animal protection movement, and the No Backyard Slaughter campaign fighting the presence of slaughterhouses in low-income BIPOC communities. Christopher also shares why people of color often feel an atmosphere of white-centricity in the animal rights movement and therefore don’t feel welcome. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Mariann’s interview with Christopher Eubanks.* Christopher “Soul” Eubanks is a social justice advocate, creative, and public speaker raised in Atlanta, GA who has dedicated himself to advocacy work that combats all forms of injustice. After learning the horrors of animal exploitation, Christopher became vegan, began doing community organizing, and has helped co-organize Atlanta’s first-ever animal rights march. Christopher is the founder of APEX Advocacy, a non-profit animal rights organization that uses digital content and grassroots activism to help communities of color defend themselves against animal industries and fight for collective liberation. “There are a variety of oppressions that impact not only the animals, but those of us that are fighting for the animals, and we can’t ignore those systems of oppression.” – Soul Eubanks Highlights for Episode 657:  Where the name APEX Advocacy came from, and how the acronym highlights their central purpose How Soul and APEX Advocacy are collaborating with the local community in Lithonia, GA to create a pressure campaign that will force the county to take action against an illegal slaughterhouse The enormous social impact of unregulated slaughterhouses on low-income, mainly BIPOC, communities Soul discusses how APEX will continue the Global Majority Caucus for animal advocates first established by Encompass  How Pitch Day works as an opportunity for advocates of color to present their ideas for new initiatives on animal advocacy and present them to donors and funders Many of the campaigners for APEX are not vegan, and Soul shares why it’s critical for him to ensure that the community feels invited and make people understand that they can fight for the same goals despite that How Soul sees leadership in animal advocacy coming from countries of the global south and some of the connections he has made with activists in other countries Some of the most important trends in black veganism, including the importance to Soul of developing the Black Vegan Everything website to showcase that the true essence and the ethics of veganism are widespread throughout Black communities Why Soul is cautiously optimistic about the possibility of achieving the enormous social change we need to change the lives and futures of animals Resources: Actor Joaquin Phoenix weighs in on Asha Sanctuary cattle controversy How Cracker Barrel’s Impossible sausage drama sheds light on bigger food system issues Cracker Barrel faces blowback after adding Impossible sausage to menu The Smell of Money Vegan Africa Fund Faunalytics Connect with Soul Eubanks: APEX Advocacy Website Black Vegan Everything Website Soul Eubanks on Twitter Soul Eubanks on Instagram Soul Eubanks on tiktok Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part by Faunalytics. Faunalytics’ mission is to empower animal advocates with access to research, analysis, strategies, and messages that maximize their effectiveness to reduce animal suffering. Animals need you, and you need data. We conduct essential research, maintain an online research library, and directly support advocates and organizations in their work to save lives. The range of data we offer helps our movement understand how people think about and respond to advocacy, providing advocates with the best strategies to inspire change for animals. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

There are few issues more contentious amongst vegans than what to feed companion animals. So, this week, we are going there! Veterinarian, researcher, and animal welfare specialist Andrew Knight knows more about this topic than pretty much anyone, and we are thrilled that he is joining us for a discussion about his recent peer-reviewed study exploring the health impacts of vegan and meat-based diets and how he’s helping companion animals lead their best lives on plant-based food. Andrew not only counters some of the stigmas attached to plant-based diets for companion animals but explains the potential benefits, including fewer gastrointestinal problems and healthier skin. He also offers listeners his advice on transitioning animals from a meat-based diet to a vegan diet and tips on finding nutritionally balanced vegan food for companion animals. Please note: Since we recorded this episode, there have been dramatic developments in the ongoing story we discussed regarding the dispute over two rescued cattle involving Asha’s Farm Sanctuary in Newfane, New York, including the arrest for grand larceny of the sanctuary’s founder, Tracy Murphy. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Jasmin’s interview with Andrew Knight.* Andrew Knight is a European, American, New Zealand, and RCVS-recognized Veterinary Specialist in animal welfare. He worked in UK small animal practice for nearly a decade before teaching for two years at Ross Uni School of Veterinary Medicine in the Caribbean. In 2015, he established the Centre for Animal Welfare at the University of Winchester, where he is a Professor of Animal Welfare and Ethics. He leads a distance learning MSc in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics, and Law. He has numerous academic and popular publications and a series of YouTube videos on animal welfare issues. Andrew has delivered around 200 external presentations on such issues; these include an extensive series examining scientific and educational animal use and alternatives, which formed the basis for his Ph.D. and subsequent book, The Costs and Benefits of Animal Experiments. His recent research focuses on the contributions of the livestock sector to climate change and on plant-based diets for companion animals. “It is impossible for us to address the changes that are needed within our societies without addressing the food system, and that also includes the food system for companion animals.” – Andrew Knight Highlights for Episode 656: The outcome of Andrew’s survey over 4,000 cat and dog guardians, which asked questions about the health and behavioral outcomes of animals on different diets The link between nutritionally sound vegan diets for companion animals and slowing climate change Why there is so little research on the impact of companion animal diets on human-generated greenhouse gasses How to ensure you are feeding your dog or cat good quality food The hazards of commercial meat-based foods for companion animals, including pesticides, allergens, and antibiotic residues Why so many people are offended by the idea of feeding animals a vegan diet, and why people focus on the concept of what is “natural” when it comes to feeding their companion animals What surveys have found about the health of vegan cats Why there’s no reason to imagine that animals wouldn’t thrive so long as you are feeding them sufficiently bioavailable, digestible food Why there is currently such phenomenal demand for vegan companion animal food How veterinary students can maximize their chances of success when asking for humane teaching methods   Resources: Help Stop Cruel Cub Petting and the Big Cat Pet Trade Asha’s Farm Sanctuary Actor Joaquin Phoenix weighs in on Asha Sanctuary cattle controversy Animal sanctuary owner faces felony after refusing to return stray cows from beef farm Rescuing or rustling at ASHA animal sanctuary? Beefing in NY! Animal sanctuary won’t return 2 stray cows to farm Vegan versus meat-based dog food: Guardian-reported indicators of health Miyoko’s Creamery Connect with Andrew Knight: Sustainable Pet Food Website Andrew Knight’s Website Andrew Knight on Facebook Plant based companion animal diets – Youtube Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part by Miyoko’s Creamery. From their humble beginnings with 4 employees in Miyoko’s home kitchen, to a 30,000 sq ft. state-of-the-art facility in Sonoma, Miyoko’s Creamery is leading the way in transforming the future of the creamery. Miyoko’s Creamery is changing perceptions of vegan food, to inspire people from all walks of life to enjoy a phenomenally vegan lifestyle and right now our listeners can get 15% off by visiting their website and checking out with code HENHOUSE15. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

Documentary filmmaker Gloria Pancrazi and Michael Bronner of Dr. Bronner’s join us this week for a conversation about the recent film, Coextinction. We discuss the stars of the film: the Southern Resident Orcas of the Pacific Northwest who are currently facing extinction and the salmon, whose brutal exploitation is contributing to the to the starvation of the orca and other wildlife.  As this film, and its title, make clear, the disappearance of the orca isn’t an isolated issue; it’s one facet of a complex, crumbling interconnected system linking ecosystem collapse, injustice against Indigenous peoples, and the most urgent environmental threats of our time. Plus, Michael explains why Dr. Bronner’s felt that Coextinction was such an important film to fund and describes his role in the project and in the wider world of animal activism. The pair also discuss why it is so important to emphasize the critical role that Indigenous people play in teaching the rest of us how to live in harmony with the Earth. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Mariann’s interview with Michael Bronner & Gloria Pancrazi.* Gloria Pancrazi is an award-winning documentary filmmaker, writer, and impact campaigner. Her work focuses on telling heartfelt stories of healing and resilience for environmental and social justice. Her first love are the orcas, a guiding light that led her to the Pacific Northwest to help protect them. Her first feature film, Coextinction, was screened at Vancouver International Film Festival, Santa Barbara International Film Festival, and more. Gloria has spent 500+ hours monitoring the critically endangered Southern Resident orcas, Northern Resident orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life with organizations like OrcaLab and Cetus Research & Conservation Society. ​She has spearheaded impact campaigns like the March 4 The Dams, a 320km walk from Portland to the Snake River Dams, to bring global attention to the controversial dams pushing orcas and salmon to extinction, violating Tribal Treaty rights, and contributing to the climate crisis. Michael Bronner is President of Dr. Bronner’s, the top-selling natural brand of soaps in North America and producer of other organic body care and food products. He is a grandson of the company founder, Emanuel Bronner, and a fifth-generation soapmaker. A philanthropist, activist, and active community leader, Michael is an advocate for many social and environmental justice causes advanced by the company, including Fair Trade, organic standards, animal advocacy, and ocean conservation. He currently sits on the San Diego District Export Council, where he counsels businesses on export processes, commerce, and education and advises per his expertise in international trade. He was born in Los Angeles, CA, in 1975. He lives in Carlsbad, CA, with his wife Erin and their children Eli and Alora. “We need to amplify the Indigenous voices who are at the forefront of these battles—that’s how we’re going to create change.” – Gloria Pancrazi “A small ripple can have real lasting effects.” – Michael Bronner Highlights for Episode 655:  How the trajectory of the film matched Gloria’s trajectory of knowledge about the danger facing the Southern Resident orcas  The impact of the trans mountain pipeline on the orcas and how it is contributing to their gradual starvation  Gloria explains the need for Indigenous leadership in environmental protection The many problems with salmon farms  Gloria shares her encounter with emaciated grizzly bears and explains how other animals in the Pacific Northwest are being significantly affected by the lack of available food The importance of a filmmaker having a balanced strategy for making the film impactful and offering ways for watchers to engage with activism versus making viewers feel helpless and hopeless   Some of the people Gloria met and bonded with during the course of making the film  Gloria’s deep frustration about the political response to climate change and its associated costs  How Dr. Bronner’s plans to promote the film and encourage people to take action on the issue of these endangered orcas and other critical animal rights challenges How to watch Coextinction and find out more about the orcas Resources: Paul Picklesimer on twitter People Are Swearing Off Air Travel Because of Climate Anxiety Animal Law Podcast #86 w/ Dije Ndreu & Brooke Dekolf University of Denver Animal Law Program on twitter Not On My Watch by Alexandra Morton Connect with Gloria Pancrazi: Coextinction Website Coextinction on Facebook Coextinction on Instagram Connect with Mike Bronner: Dr. Bronner’s Website Dr. Bronner’s on Facebook Dr. Bronner’s on Instagram Dr. Bronner’s on Twitter  Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

Powerhouse environmentalist, wildlife conservationist, and animal advocate Jack Lekishon joins the podcast this week from Maasai Mara, Kenya. A native Maasai, Jack shares traditions from the people of The Mara and tells us about the land on which they live and the plethora of wild animals that also know the Maasai Mara as home. Jack also shares why the traditional Maasai diet is so reliant on animals as a food source and outlines how he is encouraging his community to embrace a plant-based lifestyle. Plus, Jack highlights the importance of educating the region’s young people on looming climate change issues and how they can play their part in slowing the progression of the climate crisis. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Mariann’s interview with Jack Lekishon.* Jack Lekishon is a native Maasai currently residing in Maasai Mara, Kenya. He is committed to preserving the natural environment and teaching young leaders how to be future stewards of the land. Jack aims to inspire youth in Kenya, and more broadly East Africa, to become involved in both wildlife and environmental conservation efforts while raising awareness of the natural world’s great economic, cultural, and aesthetic value. Jack holds a diploma in Wildlife and Tourism and Management and Conservation from Wildlife Clubs of Kenya – Center for Tourism Training and Research. He currently works with Million Dollar Vegan to promote veganism and raise awareness about animal rights and the challenges facing our planet. “There is a very positive impact when it comes to educating young people.” – Jack Lekishon Highlights for Episode 654:  Jack shares why he made such a huge shift in the way he eats and why he became a vegan   Jack’s experience with a vegan food relief program during the COVID-19 pandemic and how the community received the initiative  He talks about why the Maasai people traditionally resisted farming and how Jack is working to change the view that a healthy diet has to contain meat  He discusses the impact of drought and climate change on the Maasai people’s diet He shares the benefits of ecotourism to the Maasai economy He offers a brief overview of the conflict between the Maasai people and the Tanzanian government  The interview covers Jack’s work with local children on understanding the environmental significance of where they live and how they can protect it  We discuss why the Maasai are open to making the necessary changes in their way of life to ensure the safe future of their people Finally, we go over how to learn more about and support Jack’s work Resources: BURGER KING: “1 OP 3 VERKOCHTE WHOPPERS IN BELGIE IS VEGGIE” “Normal or With Meat?”: All Burger King Items Are Plant-Based in Austrian Experiment, Meat Must be Requested Episode 596: DefaultVeg ft. Katie Cantrell Lewis Bollard on Twitter Miyoko’s Creamery Connect with Jack Lekishon: Jack Lekishon on Facebook Million Dollar Vegan Website GoFundMe Food for Maasai Community in Kenya GoFundMe Help Us Save Isaac! GoFundMe Help Maasai Girls Stay In School Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part by Miyoko’s Creamery. From their humble beginnings with 4 employees in Miyoko’s home kitchen, to a 30,000 sq ft. state-of-the-art facility in Sonoma, Miyoko’s Creamery is leading the way in transforming the future of the creamery. Miyoko’s Creamery is changing perceptions of vegan food, to inspire people from all walks of life to enjoy a phenomenally vegan lifestyle and right now our listeners can get 15% off by visiting their website and checking out with code HENHOUSE15. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

Monica Engebretson is working to end cruel animal testing practices, and this week, she joins the podcast for an in-depth conversation about the state of medical and cosmetic animal testing. The North American Head of Public Affairs for Cruelty Free International, Monica breaks down how the global organization is working to bring an end to animal testing worldwide. Plus, she explains the difference between animal research and animal testing, the most cogent arguments for its ineffectiveness,  and the existing non-animal alternatives. She also gives us an overview of animal research and testing in the United States and discusses various legislative and regulatory initiatives on behalf of animals trapped in labs. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Mariann’s interview with Monica Engebretson.* Monica Engebretson is the North American Head of Public Affairs for Cruelty Free International – an organization working to end animal testing worldwide. Monica has worked in the field of animal protection since 1999 with a range of experience, including fieldwork, undercover investigations, lobbying, and media and public education campaigns. She has also worked on various issues in addition to animals in research, including human-wildlife conflicts, trapping, farmed animals, and captive birds. She has helped write and pass several state laws on many of these issues.  Before working professionally in the animal protection movement, Monica earned a Bachelor of Science in wildlife with a minor in environmental ethics from Humboldt State University in Northern California. Monica’s work for Cruelty Free International has focused on initiatives in the US and Canada to end cosmetic testing on animals, working to accelerate the replacement of animals in FDA regulatory testing through the Make Alternatives a Priority (MAP) campaign, advancing humane science funded by the NIH with the Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Sciences Testing (HEARTS) Act, and maximizing the number of animals released from laboratories through the Companion Animal Release from Experiments (CARE) Act. “Every year, it’s estimated 192 million animals are used in experiments around the world, and the US is one of the largest users of animals.” – Monica Engebretson Highlights for Episode 653:  The complexities of testing medical and cosmetic products  The central criticisms of using animals in experiments Why animal testing is a historic methodology that has proved to be ineffective Other non-animal testing methods that are showing signs of being more useful The major objections to the use of non-animal testing alternatives A review of the current US state and federal research and testing laws and recent changes to those laws, including what the Animal Welfare Act requires from organizations and businesses How Cruelty Free International is  helping to ensure that non-animal testing methods are prioritized Some of the shortcomings in existing laws The Humane and Existing Alternatives in Research and Sciences Testing (HEARTS) Act  Why Cruelty Free International is working at the federal level to build programs that help animals find homes once their role in research is over and how that initiative serves to remind people of the ongoing issue of animal testing Changes happening at the State level, particularly in New York, concerning cosmetic testing  How the Leaping Bunny mark ensures you’re buying cruelty-free products  How you can find out if a product is cruelty-free or vegan How to get in touch with and support Cruelty Free International Resources: Plant Based Meat By Far The Best Climate Investment Report Finds Faunalytics Connect with Monica Engebretson: Cruelty Free International Website Sign up for general US-based alerts and newsletters at Make Their Voice Count Cruelty Free USA on Twitter   Cruelty Free International on Twitter Cruelty Free International on Instagram:  Cruelty Free International on Facebook  Cruelty Free USA on Facebook Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part by Faunalytics. Faunalytics’ mission is to empower animal advocates with access to research, analysis, strategies, and messages that maximize their effectiveness to reduce animal suffering. Animals need you, and you need data. We conduct essential research, maintain an online research library, and directly support advocates and organizations in their work to save lives. The range of data we offer helps our movement understand how people think about and respond to advocacy, providing advocates with the best strategies to inspire change for animals. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.

Jane Velez-Mitchell is a media powerhouse known for speaking up for animals, and today, we welcome her back to the podcast for a conversation about UnchainedTV, the free streaming platform committed to amplifying vegan, animal rights content. In our conversation, Jane explains how people can access this critical content worldwide, why she decided to make it available free of charge, and the metaphor behind the UnchainedTV name. She also shares the details of how the new network came to develop the world’s first reality show starring a family of pigs, Pig Little Lies, and why she believes the show has become wildly popular. We also discuss her focus on climate change and the importance of sharing animal rights content beyond our vegan bubbles and making sure it reaches as many people as possible. *We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read Jasmin’s interview with Jane Velez-Mitchell.* Jane Velez-Mitchell is a nationally known TV journalist, best-selling author, and founder and Managing Editor of UnchainedTV. She is the winner of four Genesis awards and commendations from the Humane Society of the United States and is committed to covering crimes against animals and the environment. Unchained TV is the culmination of a lifelong dream. Previously, Jane worked as a television journalist anchoring local news at KCAL-TV in Los Angeles and WCBS-TV in New York. Jane also hosted her show on CNN Headline News (HLN) for six years. “We’re trying to normalize veganism.” – Jane Velez-Mitchell Highlights for Episode 652:  How saving Dante and Beatrice from a high-kill shelter came to be featured on UnchainedTV’s programming, plus how a twist in the tale led to even more drama than the team anticipated The importance of having animal media that makes people laugh The cast of Pig Little Lies and the popularity of the show The horror of unscrupulous pig breeders selling animals as ´micro´ or ´teacup´ pigs and what happens when their buyers realize that is far from the truth  How listeners can get involved in helping these pigs or other animals in similar situations The types of programming UnchainedTV offers, including how they report on news Whether Jane has hope, despite all she has seen in the course of her career  The pros and cons of cell-based meats and why Jane believes it is the way of the future Resources: Why The California Furor Over Humanely Raised Pork Matters Everywhere Miyoko’s Creamery Connect with Jane Velez-Mitchell: Unchained TV on Facebook UnchainedTV on Instagram UnchainedTV on Twitter Unchained TV Streaming Network Watch Pig Little Lies Connect with Our Hen House: Our Hen House Website Our Hen House on Facebook Our Hen House on Instagram Our Hen House on Twitter _____________________________________________ Thank you for listening to the Our Hen House podcast! If you enjoy our podcasts, believe in our mission to effectively mainstream the movement to end the exploitation of animals, find community and solace in our shows and resources, and would like to show your support for vegan indie media, please make a donation today. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series. The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part by Miyoko’s Creamery. From their humble beginnings with 4 employees in Miyoko’s home kitchen, to a 30,000 sq ft. state-of-the-art facility in Sonoma, Miyoko’s Creamery is leading the way in transforming the future of the creamery. Miyoko’s Creamery is changing perceptions of vegan food, to inspire people from all walks of life to enjoy a phenomenally vegan lifestyle and right now our listeners can get 15% off by visiting their website and checking out with code HENHOUSE15. __________________________ This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.