Our Hen House

This week, Jasmin Singer talks to author Joni Marie Neuman about the art of simple vegan gifts, food desert awareness, and promoting plant-strong meals. Joni is an author, activist, and blogger currently residing in California. Her TEN(!) books include The Complete Guide to Vegan Food Substitutions ,  The Best Veggie Burgers on the Planet, and Vegan Food Gifts. She recently began posting recipes using very specific guidelines for vegans (or those trying to eat vegan) living in a food desert. You can check out her first two entries here and here. Then, Mariann Sullivan talks to Marilyn Kroplick, President of In Defense of Animals, about her current work with IDA and her new 12-step program Carnivores Anonymous. Marilyn Kroplick, M.D. is a board-certified psychiatrist and award-winning socio-political photographer. Her passion for animal rights was ignited in 2002 after purchasing a puppy from a pet store who became terribly sick. Dr. Kroplick’s fight for justice led her to discover the system of abuse that brings puppies to pet stores, and successfully expose and shut down that store. Since 2011, Dr. Kroplick has led In Defense of Animals’ powerful campaigns to end the dog meat trade, advocate for elephants, strengthen animal cruelty laws, and save animals in need around the world. Dr. Kroplick is using her extensive expertise to build a movement that supports activists to achieve animal liberation.   Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incre...

This week, Mariann Sullivan talks to fashion designer, activist, and educator Joshua Katcher about his new book, Fashion Animals; his ethically-made fashion menswear brand, Brave Gentleman; and his new cheese band, RIND. Joshua has taught at Parsons The New School and LIM college, and has lectured internationally on sustainable and ethical fashion. Katcher was awarded most influential designer of 2015 by PETA, named a “modern day hero in the making” by The Wild Magazine, and both an “ethical style icon” and one of the top 10 male bloggers by Veg News Magazine. He has been featured on the Rich Roll podcast, was a contributor to HuffPo style, has appeared on the cover of Vegan Good Life Magazine, and has been interviewed on major networks, such as Al Jazeera America as a fashion expert. Then, we present another exciting segment of “Teaching Jasmin How To Cook Vegan” as Jasmin Singer learns Jenne Claiborne‘s recipe for Sweet Potato Burgers with Green Tahini from her amazing cookbook, Sweet Potato Soul. Here’s the recipe! Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.

This week, Jasmin Singer talks to Lani Muelrath, author of The Mindful Vegan: A 30-Day Plan for Finding Health, Balance, Peace, and Happiness about the power of mindfulness, the intersections of mindfulness and veganism, and the simple steps you can take to living a more grounded, mindful life. Lani Muelrath, M.A., is an award-winning health educator, celebrated speaker and the author of three best-selling books. Lani has been vegetarian/vegan for 45 years and has been teaching in health and wellness for more over four decades She has been practicing mindfulness meditation for over 25 years, and is recognized as a thought leader and pioneer in transition to plant-based nutrition and in the integration of vegan living and mindfulness practice. Then, Mariann Sullivan talks to filmmaker Fern Levitt about her powerful new film, Sled Dogs, the first documentary to penetrate through the dark curtain of the sled dog industry including the renowned “Iditarod”; and reveal the abusive treatment of “man’s best friend”. Sled Dogs recently won Best Director and Best Documentary at Whistler Film Festival 2016. Fern Levitt is an international award winning documentary producer and director who has covered stories of some of the world’s leading activists for human rights. Recently, her passions have changed to now documenting the welfare of animals starting with this year’s acclaimed film, “Sled Dogs”. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.

Welcome to the 424th episode of Our Hen House! First, Jasmin and Mariann review Jasmin’s recent trip to New York City including their amazing dining experiences at Buddha-Bodai and Orchard Grocer, and finding relations to activism after seeing The Band’s Visit on Broadway. Then, Jasmin talks to Carol Adams, author of The Sexual Politics of Meat, about her new book, Burger, the exploitative history of the hamburger, and about issues of sexual and physical violence in the animal rights movement. Carol Adams is one of the philosophical leaders of the animal rights movement. She has written for the New York Times, the Washington Post, Ms. Magazine, The Christian Century, Tikkun, and Truthdig, among other publications. She has been an activist against domestic violence, racism, and homelessness, and for reproductive justice and fair housing practices. She pioneered work discussing and addressing domestic violence and harm to animals. After that, Mariann talks to activist Bill Crain about his recent arrest for civil disobedience while protesting the New Jersey Bear Hunt, and his work with Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary. Bill Crain is a professor of psychology at The City College of New York.  In 2008, he and his wife Ellen founded Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary in lower Dutchess County, New York.  Dr. Crain’s recent book, “The Emotional Lives of Animals and Children: Insights from a Farm Sanctuary,” describes some of his experiences. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.

Welcome to the 423rd episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann talks to author Margaret Robinson, an Assistant Professor of Indigenous Studies at Dalhousie University, about veganism and indigenous peoples. Margaret Robinson is a two-spirit scholar from Eski’kewaq, Nova Scotia, and a member of the Lennox Island First Nation. Then, Jasmin talks to Bruce Friedrich, executive director of the Good Food Institute, about his new book co-written with Kathy Freston, Clean Protein, and how we can continue to change the way people think about their ways of eating. Bruce has penned opinion pieces for USA Today, the Wall Street Journal, Los Angeles Times, and many other publications. He is a popular speaker on college campuses and has presented repeatedly at most of the nation’s top universities, including Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford, and MIT. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.

Welcome to the 422nd episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann talks to author Tom Ryan about his most recent book, Will’s Red Coat: The Story of One Old Dog Who Chose To Live Again. A story of a dog and an indelible bond that is beautiful, heartbreaking, uplifting, and unforgettable, Will’s Red Coat honors the promise held in all of us, at any stage of life. Then, Jasmin talks to Tomi Makanjuola from The Vegan Nigerian, a website where she shares recipes, videos and resources inspired by Nigerian cuisine and her own personal vegan journey. They talk about veganising Nigerian cuisine, Tomi’s early experience witnessing animal cruelty, and her Airbnb dinners. You can follow Tomi on Twitter and Instagram @vegannigerian. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.

Welcome to the 421st episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann and Jasmin discuss the #ARMetoo movement. Then, Mariann talks to musician and long-time animal activist Moby about growing up an outsider, finding compassionate methods of activism, and his Netflix-related epiphany. Moby’s new album will be released on March 2nd, 2018. On our second interview, Jasmin talks to Dr. Neal Barnard (PCRM) about the rise of veganism among athletes, the coming impact of lab-grown meat, and the effects of dopamine. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! Also, we’re conducting a survey of our listeners and we would love for you to help us improve the show by taking it. It’s completely anonymous, and voluntary, and if you’d like to take it you can do so by clicking here! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.

Welcome to the 420th episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann talks to Suzy Welch (author of the New York Times bestseller 10-10- 10: A Life Transforming Idea; The Today Show; CNBC’s “Get To Work with Suzy Welch”) about the intersections between veganism and Christianity. Then, Jasmin talks to playwright and publisher John Yunker (Sanctuary, Ashland Creek Press) about using theater and writing to amplify animal rights issues, his own journey to become vegan, and what’s next for him as a writer. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! Also, we’re conducting a survey of our listeners and we would love for you to help us improve the show by taking it. It’s completely anonymous, and voluntary, and if you’d like to take it you can do so by clicking here! Thanks. As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on iTunes! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.

  Welcome to the 419th episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann talks to Becca Franks about the research into whether or not fish experience pain. Becca received her PhD in Psychology from Columbia University and completed a Killiam Postdoctoral Research Fellowship with the Animal Welfare Program at The University of British Columbia. Throughout her career, Becca has been interested in uncovering fundamental patterns of well-being that apply across species, working with walruses, chimpanzees, salmon, rats, cows, humans, mice, and zebrafish. This fall she joined the Animal Studies Initiative as a research scientist to explore issues related to fish and aquatic animal welfare. Then, Mariann talks to Kate McIntyre Clere and Michael McIntyre about their new film, Kangaroo – A Love-Hate Story. Set in distinctive Australian landscapes, Kangaroo – A Love-Hate Story explores the complex and conflicting opinions around this unique marsupial at the center of the largest mass destruction of wildlife in the world. With breathtaking footage of kangaroos in the wild, the film provides audiences with an up close experience of this unique species and bring to the table a conversation that Australians seem reluctant to have; the future of the largest remaining marsupial species left on the planet.   Watch the trailer here. Plus, Jasmin wants to know what you’re doing on a daily basis to increase your activism, and she covers this week’s News. Mariann covers Rising Anxieties! Also, we’re conducting a survey of our listeners and we would love for you to help us improve the show by taking it. It’s completely anonymous, and voluntary, but if you’d like to take it you can do so by clicking here! Thanks. As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World is a hunger relief and animal protection organization chipping away at two of the world’s most immense, unnecessary and unconscionable forms of suffering… the suffering of people hungry from lack of food, and the suffering of animals used and abused for food. Mending our unjust food system is a critical part of solving the world’s most destructive and persistent problems. Fortunately, the plant-based foods that promote health and well-being are the same foods that conserve resources to better feed the world, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website (beneath this paragraph!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock...

Welcome to the 418th episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann talks to Stephanie Downs about bringing plant-based meat to India with her start-up company, Gooddot. Stephanie Downs is an entrepreneur turned social activist. Her journey took her from the business world to the non-profit sector before finally realizing her place was in the middle between the two worlds – a social enterprise. She founded her first company in 1999, which she sold in 2014. During these years, she assisted global animal welfare organizations and started her own charity to help homeless animals. During a trip to India in 2012, Stephanie fell in love with the country and the people. It was a dream come true when the opportunity presented itself to launch a company in India to save lives. Then, Jasmin talks to Kat Mendenhall about making Vegan boots in Texas! A Texas vegan activist, Kat Mendenhal, Purveyor of Handmade Vegan Goods, is on a mission to mend the world through whole-plant based nutrition and cruelty-free products. She combines her nutrition studies and culinary training to implement effective coaching and cooking services for her clients. In addition, Kat shows her passion as a boot maven in the creation of her custom handmade vegan cowboy boots and non-leather accessories. She is a master vegan lifestyle coach and educator certified by Main Street Vegan Academy, a culinary nutrition expert certified by The Academy of Culinary Nutrition, certified in plant based nutrition through the T. Colin Campbell Foundation/eCornell University, and a Food For Life Instructor certified by Physicians Committee. On www.katmendnehall.com you can read about her private or group coaching, teaching, and cooking services; boots and fashion goods; get recipes, lifestyle and business tips from her blog; and schedule Kat to speak or provide a cooking demo at your next event. Also, we’re conducting a survey of our listeners and we would love for you to help us improve the show by taking it. It’s completely anonymous, and voluntary, but if you’d like to take it you can do so by clicking here! Thanks. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World is a hunger relief and animal protection organization chipping away at two of the world’s most immense, unnecessary and unconscionable forms of suffering… the suffering of people hungry from lack of food, and the suffering of animals used and abused for food. Mending our unjust food system is a critical part of solving the world’s most destructive and persistent problems. Fortunately, the plant-based foods that promote health and well-being are the same foods that conserve resources to better feed the world, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website (beneath this paragraph!) or you can listen and subscribe on 

Welcome to the 417th episode of Our Hen House! First, Jasmin talks to Rosana Ng about her powerful journey from the fashion industry to the world of the animal advocacy, and the work she is doing with The Pollination Project to promote veganism and animal advocacy in China. Rosana Ng is the country coordinator of The Pollination Project’s Global Animal Advocacy Program. She is responsible for distributing impact seed grants in the Greater China Region.  Rosana’s lifelong passion for animals inspired a transformational mid-career change from leadership in the garment manufacturing sector to full time animal and social justice advocacy work. Rosana holds an MBA from Richard Ivey School of Business from University of Western Ontario, and an M.Ed. from Valparaiso University in Indiana, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Humane Education from the Institute for Humane Education in Maine. Rosana combines her eastern culture with her western education to drive change on interconnected issues that affect animals, people and the planet in culturally responsive ways.   Then, Mariann talks to Yolanda Alvarez about the current situation in Puerto Rico for both animals and humans. Before founding ÁLVAREZ LEGAL, Yolanda Álvarez was the Vice-Chair of the Litigation Department and Chair of the Copyrights and Entertainment Divisions of a medium size law firm. She is an accomplished intellectual property attorney and litigator. Her main areas of practice are Intellectual Property (Trademark and Copyrights) & Entertainment, Commercial Litigation, and Animal Law. Ms. Álvarez is also an adjunct professor at the University of Puerto Rico School of Law, and has been a speaker at various local and national conferences. She has been actively involved in non-profit organizations such as the Special Olympics and the Film Foundation of Puerto Rico, of which she is a member of the Board of Directors. She has also been recognized for her efforts towards the wellbeing of animals in Puerto Rico, including her involvement in the drafting of the Animal Anti-cruelty Act, Act 154 of August 4, 2008, one of the most progressive legislation towards animal protection in the world. She is actively involved in the American Bar Association where she served as the Chair of the Intellectual Property Law Committee (2010-2013) within the Tort Trial & Insurance Practice Section (“TIPS”). She is currently a Vice Chair of aforementioned committee and the Chair of International Issues of the Animal Law Committee. Plus, Mariann covers this week’s News and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World is a hunger relief and animal protection organization chipping away at two of the world’s most immense, unnecessary and unconscionable forms of suffering… the suffering of people hungry from lack of food, and the suffering of animals used and abused for food. Mending our unjust food system is a critical part of solving the world’s most destructive and persistent problems. Fortunately, the plant-based foods that promote health and well-being are the same foods that conserve resources to better feed the world, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. 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

Welcome to the 416th episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann talks to Dr. Peter Li about his work with animal welfare policies and protection in China. Dr Li is an Associate Professor at University of Houston-Downtown and a China Policy Specialist for the Humane Society International. His research focuses on China’s animal welfare policies and the country’s animal protection movement at a time of rapid social transformation. Dr Li has published articles on China’s wildlife law enforcement, culture and human-animal relations, factory farming and animal welfare, wildlife farming and cruelty and others.  In recent commentaries published, Dr Li called on the Chinese authorities to outlaw domestic ivory sales and to re-invent a wildlife protection law for safeguarding the common interest of humanity. Dr Li is a consultant for Humane Society International on issues and collaborative programs with China. Then, Mariann talks to Taimie Bryant and Cheryl Leahy about their work with the Animal Law and Policy Small Grants Program at UCLA Law School. Professor Taimie Bryant has taught several different animal law courses and has conducted research and writing on varied animal law topics. All of her teaching and scholarship reflect her training in both anthropology and law. During research for various interdisciplinary animal law projects, Dr. Bryant came to appreciate the considerable value of research in other fields, which, if fully understood and utilized, can facilitate the work of animal law scholars and practitioners. She is the Director of the Animal Law and Policy Small Grants Program at UCLA Law School, which is premised on the belief that positive change to benefit animals will emerge from research produced by researchers in non-law fields as it intersects with the work of researchers and practitioners of animal law. Since her graduation from UCLA Law School in 2006, Cheryl Leahy has served as General Counsel for Compassion Over Killing, where she is responsible for development and oversight of investigations, litigation, and policy concerning farmed animals. In addition to her extensive experience and expertise specific to farmed animals, Cheryl has considerable knowledge of other animal law areas and familiarity with legal practitioners working in those subfields. She is the Project Coordinator for the new Animal Law and Policy Small Grants Program and works with the new Initiative on Animals in Our Food System at the Resnick Program for Food Law and Policy. Plus, Jasmin covers the top vegan stories of 2017, and Mariann gives us this week’s Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World is a hunger relief and animal protection organization chipping away at two of the world’s most immense, unnecessary and unconscionable forms of suffering… the suffering of people hungry from lack of food, and the suffering of animals used and abused for food. Mending our unjust food system is a critical part of solving the w...

Welcome to the 415th episode of Our Hen House! First, Julia Feliz Brueck returns to Our Hen House to talk to Jasmin about her new book, Veganism In An Oppressive World. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Julia Feliz Brueck is a decade long vegan, mother of two, scientist, and published author and illustrator. She is also the founder of Sanctuary Publishers, a vegan book publisher that gives back to marginalized communities with every book sold. Sales support vegan organizations, sanctuaries, or projects, as well as the publication of much needed vegan books and content to help raise the voices of nonhuman animals. Sales from her newest book, “Veganism in an Oppressive World”, a Vegans-of-Color community project, help support Food Empowerment Project, a vegan organization that “encourages healthy food choices that reflect a more compassionate society by spotlighting the abuse of animals on farms, the depletion of natural resources, unfair working conditions for produce workers, and the unavailability of healthy foods in low-income areas”. Then, Mariann talks to Ingrid Taylor about the horrors of Yale University bird studies, her work to stop them, and the more humane approaches that can be taken with experimentation. Dr. Ingrid Taylor is a research associate for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals. As a veterinarian, she researches biomedical experiments that use animals and provides an expert opinion on pain management, experiment protocols, and other welfare issues. Dr. Taylor’s research has included traumatic brain injury experiments in rodents, sepsis experiments in mice, and infectious-disease experiments in dogs and primates, among other issues. Before joining PETA, she spent several years in clinical veterinary practice and served in the U.S. Air Force. Plus, Mariann covers news and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World is a hunger relief and animal protection organization chipping away at two of the world’s most immense, unnecessary and unconscionable forms of suffering… the suffering of people hungry from lack of food, and the suffering of animals used and abused for food. Mending our unjust food system is a critical part of solving the world’s most destructive and persistent problems. Fortunately, the plant-based foods that promote health and well-being are the same foods that conserve resources to better feed the world, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website (beneath this paragraph!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider 

Welcome to the 414th episode of Our Hen House! First, Mariann talks to David Carter, aka The 300 Pound Vegan, about transitioning to a vegan lifestyle as a professional NFL player, as well as his Good Food Initiative. David Carter was drafted into the NFL in 2011 and began playing for the Arizona Cardinals. Third season, after being released from the Dallas Cowboys, the sport began taking a toll on his body. Searching for answers on how to heal his injuries, David decided to watch the Forks Over Knives documentary. Overnight, he switched to a lifestyle that was compassionate to both him and all other sentient beings. David is now more famously known as the 300 Pound Vegan and is using his platform to be a voice for animals, human health, and the planet. Then, Jasmin meets up with Elisa Camahort Page  for a special holiday segment of Teaching Jasmin How To Cook Vegan! Chef Elisa shows Jasmin how to make a vegan adaptation of her Jewish mom’s artichoke dip, a perfect dish to bring to any holiday party. Follow along with Chef Elisa’s recipe below, as they rinse, chop, drain, and learn what an artichoke is. Let’s get cooking! Plus, Mariann covers news and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World is a hunger relief and animal protection organization chipping away at two of the world’s most immense, unnecessary and unconscionable forms of suffering… the suffering of people hungry from lack of food, and the suffering of animals used and abused for food. Mending our unjust food system is a critical part of solving the world’s most destructive and persistent problems. Fortunately, the plant-based foods that promote health and well-being are the same foods that conserve resources to better feed the world, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. 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. You can listen to our podcast directly on our website (beneath this paragraph!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week! The Our Hen House theme song is written and sung by the incredible Michael Harren, who is also OHH’s Director of Communications! Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching ...

Welcome to the 413th episode of Our Hen House! First, Jasmin talks to Adam Sugalski , Executive Director of OneProtest, about using effective messaging for protests. Adam is an animal protection warrior who has most recently led a national coalition of activists to fight, and successfully STOP the 2016, 2017 and 2018 trophy bear hunt in Florida. Adam believes strongly in utilizing professional activism to raise public awareness and end the most cruel forms of animal abuse. Adam is also dedicated to supporting activists across the nation by sharing his wealth of experience in mobilizing the strong voice of the people to stand up and affect real change. Adam is a published author and the winner of the 2016 Matthew Eyton Animal Activist Award. Then, Mariann talks to Richard Angelo and Joan Schaffner about their work with the American Bar Association’s Animal Law committee recent efforts to help community cats. Joan E. Schaffner, J.D., is an Associate Professor of Law at the George Washington University Law School. She received her B.S. in mechanical engineering (magna cum laude) and J.D. (Order of the Coif) from the University of Southern California and her M.S. in mechanical engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Joan has presented on animal law panels and conferences world-wide. Joan’s most recent article published March 2017 in the Syracuse Law Review is “Community Cats: Changing the Legal Paradigm for So-Called ‘Pests.’” She is the author of Introduction to Animals and the Law, co-author and editor of A Lawyer’s Guide to Dangerous Dog Issues and Litigating Animal Law Disputes: A Complete Guide for Lawyers. In August 2013, she received the ABA TIPS Excellence in the Advancement of Animal Law Award, serves on ABA TIPS Council and was selected in 2017 as a Fellow to the American Bar Foundation. On a personal note, Joan shares her life with a magnificent group of felines. Richard Angelo, Jr. is a Legislative Attorney for Best Friends Animal Society.  His primary focus is on Best Friends’ work with community cats and promoting legislation that will humanely and directly reduce the killing of cats in shelters across the country. He was previously a sole practitioner with an office in Davison, Michigan, focusing on companion animal-related matters and litigation, including defending dangerous dog matters, consulting on alternatives to breed-specific legislation, ownership disputes of companion animals, zoning and ordinance violations regarding companion animals. He has been a member of the Animal Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan since 2001, and has served as a council member of that Section since 2009. He is also a member of the American Bar Association- TIPS Animal Law Committee, and International Law Section, Animal Law Committee, and the National Animal Care and Control Association. Richard resides in Goodrich, Michigan with his wife, five dogs, and three cats. Here are some relevant links for this interview: TNVR Resolution and Report Animal Law Committee Webpage Animal Law Committee Facebook Page Plus, Mariann covers news and Rising Anxieties! As always, the award-winning weekly Our Hen House podcast is hosted by Mariann Sullivan and Jasmin Singer. This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed Wo...