Source: www.johnsalley.com Welcome to the 175th episode of Our Hen House, Official Honoree of the 2013 Webby Awards. Today’s episode features NBA veteran John Salley, with a special review by JL Fields. In today's episode, we will share with you some advice we were given by a well-known songwriter on how (... More)

Source: www.johnsalley.com

Welcome to the 175th episode of Our Hen House, Official Honoree of the 2013 Webby Awards. Today’s episode features NBA veteran John Salley, with a special review by JL Fields.

In today's episode, we will share with you some advice we were given by a well-known songwriter on how she deals with rejection – and we, of course, will relate that advice to animal rights activism. We'll chat about how saying you're busy all the time gets old, and we'll report back on Colleen Patrick-Goudreau's book launch here in New York City, for her latest and greatest, On Being Vegan. Then, we'll chat about bullying, and talk about a recent news story that seems to have exploded – this is regarding a high school in Northern California where members of the agriculture club are telling the media that the vegan kids are bullying them. But… are they?

Joining us today is 15-year NBA veteran – and the first NBA player to win four championships with three different teams – John Salley. John, a passionate vegan, and spokesperson for The Vegan Vine wines, will talk to us about which restaurant inspired him to embrace a plant-based diet, how he thinks his wildly popular basketball career would have been affected had he gone vegan then, how he handles his family's reactions to his diet, his passion for creating inroads to getting more vegan options added to kids' cafeteria menus, how his 10-year-old speaks up for animals unapologetically, and how to handle pushback from family and friends who might not get it. Don't miss this interview with a world-renowned basketball champion, and a true blue animal ambassador.

For our review, JL Fields of JL Goes Vegan will be joining us once again to give us the skinny on Door 86 – the newest (and perhaps yummiest) vegan cheese to hit the market.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today’s episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” -Mark Twain

Welcome to the 174th episode of Our Hen House, Official Honoree of the 2013 Webby Awards. Today’s episode features Lisa Kemmerer, with a special appearance by Jenny Brown.

In today's episode, we bring you our recurring “Anxieties Rising” segment, dedicated to the animal agriculture industry. We'll chat about an article from Beef Magazine entitled “Is It Fair to Use Religion in the Animal Rights Debate?” Beyond that, we'll also chat about Jasmin’s recent and somewhat accidental interview for a major documentary by the filmmakers behind Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead. And we'll tell you all about a one-woman show we saw, Blondie of Arabia, which is full of various social justice themes – including animal rights. Plus, we'll report back on last week's fundraiser we attended for Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, aptly called Sanctuary in the City, held at the uber-chic Chelsea gallery, Alexander Gray Associates. While at that fabulous event, we had the opportunity to chat with Woodstock Sanctuary founder Jenny Brown, and today we'll bring you that interview. You won't want to miss it. Jenny, who is one of our heroes, will let us in on what the deal is with slaughterhouses in the city.

For our feature interview today we'll be joined by philosopher, activist, and author Lisa Kemmerer, who will discuss her book Animals and World Religions. Lisa will tell us about why religion is an important part of her work vis a vis animals, and she'll ruminate on why so many people who follow religions that seem to require ethical behavior behave in ways that are so unethical when it comes to animals. She'll chat with us about so much more, too – this is a hefty subject indeed! – so don't miss this eye-opening interview.

For our review, we will give you our list of 5 New-to-Us Chinatown Produce Finds, and we'll tell you which ones you absolutely have to try, and which ones you can skip.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today’s episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“Once you see it, you can’t un-see it. And once you’ve seen it, keeping quiet, saying nothing, becomes as political an act as speaking out. There’s no innocence. Either way, you’re accountable.” -Arundhati Roy

Welcome to the 173rd episode of Our Hen House, 2013 Official Honoree of the Webby Awards. Today’s episode features Iris Ho, with special appearances by Jay Astafa and Ari Solomon.

In today's episode, we tell you about an 8-course vegan popup restaurant that we attended here in New York City, and we'll chat with the dynamite 20-year-old chef, Jay Astafa. Find out what ingredient caused him to appropriately name one of his dishes “dragon's breath.” We'll also talk about animal rights poet Gretchen Primack, whose new book, Kind, gives us shivers, and hope. Jasmin will tell you about Kind’s book launch party which she attended. And, inspired by a documentary we saw at the Tribeca Film Festival called Out of Print, we'll ruminate on digital books versus three-dimensional ones, and what implications the future of publishing have for animal rights and veganism. And we'll discuss the role that animal exploitation plays in religion, and why things aren't different in that regard. (Read more about that in our recent article for Elephant Journal, “Do Religious Traditions Condone Animal Suffering?“)

Speaking of which, today we'll be joined by Iris Ho, the person who heads up Humane Society International's campaign to end mercy release and educate the public about this cruel practice, which, ironically, was originally motivated by compassion for animals. Iris will tell us all about mercy release and her efforts to bring lasting change to animals.

For our review, we'll be joined by Our Hen House reviewer Ari Solomon, who will give us his take on the new HBO documentary, An Apology to Elephants. Don't miss Ari's eye-opening take on this film. His review might just surprise you.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today’s episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“This is the true joy of life, the being used up for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances, complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.” -George Bernard Shaw

Welcome to the 172nd episode of Our Hen House, Official Honoree of the 2013 Webby Awards. Today's episode features #1 New York Times bestselling author, Rory Freedman.

In today's episode, we get you up to speed on our disappointing choice of films at the Tribeca Film Festival, a Broadway show we saw starring Jasmin’s childhood idol, our latest Netflix obsession, and our gallivant to a country-like neighborhood right here in New York City. Then, onto the nitty gritty — we have a hearty discussion about how even in the current climate, it's still inexplicably challenging to get environmentalists on board with the animal message.

Joining us today is #1 New York Times bestselling author Rory Freedman, whose new book, Beg: A Radical New Way of Regarding Animals, is coming out this week, on April 30. Rory, a modeling agent turned animal activist, will let us in on how her meditation practice caused her to rethink the language she uses in her outreach, and she'll tell us what's changed vis a vis her activism techniques ever since she wrote Skinny Bitch. She'll also offer her two cents on how to handle some common pickles that we vegans find ourselves in, and she'll let us in on the constant evolution of her activism.

For our review, Mariann and I will give you the skinny on the 1973 sci-fi dystopian fantasy, Soylent Green – from an animal rights perspective.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today’s episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“In matters of conscience, the law of the majority has no place.” -Gandhi

Photo on previous page of Rory Freedman via RoryFreedman.com.

Welcome to the 171st episode of Our Hen House, Official Honoree of the 2013 Webby Awards. Today’s episode features Leilani Munter.

In today's episode, we discuss the magic of the Hudson Valley, vegan chocolate vaginas, and – speaking of which – feeling naked when interviewed by the press. We'll ruminate about a question that frequently comes up when we give talks: that of whether veganism is the only answer. We'll also ramble about handling questions about organic standards, and we'll chat about the latest in ag-gag legislation.

Joining us today is professional race car driver and environmental activist, Leilani Munter. Leilani will talk to us about her vegan advocacy, including giving us the skinny on the VegNation Car, how she keeps her racing carbon-neutral, and her work mainstreaming the movement to save the ocean and its inhabitants. She'll also tell us about the biggest challenges she faces as a woman in a sport dominated by men, as well as those she faces as a vegan and an activist in a meat-centric world.

For our review, we will tell you about the film, Poultrygeist: Night of the Chicken Dead. Hold onto your hats, and your breakfasts.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today’s episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“The function of the independent press (besides being essentially dissident) is still to discover, to find the new voices and give voice to them.” -Lawrence Ferlinghetti

Welcome to the 170th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Ray Greek.

In today's episode, we start off by making a very exciting announcement about an honor bestowed upon the Our Hen House podcast this week. We're gobsmacked, y'all. Somebody pinch us. Then, after we gather ourselves, we'll squawk about a birthday cake make out of vegetables; why Rose is a genius dog; and how to remain optimistic. We'll ramble about the annoying vegan couple who made a restaurant cook their pasta for them, and the irksome press veganism got as a result; we'll chat about why Sara Gilbert discussing her girlfriend on television gives Mariann hope about animal rights; and we'll ruminate on how it's just not okay to compare open-heart surgery to animal agriculture.

Joining us today is the brilliant scientist, Dr. Ray Greek, whose extensive work in the field of science-based medical research has led him to be diametrically opposed to research modalities that have been shown to be scientifically invalid – specifically, the use of animals as predictive models. Dr. Greek will debunk commonly-held misperceptions about the so-called “benefit” that animals play in such research, and he'll explain the alternatives. You won't want to miss this interview with a modern-day hero to animals, and one of the few scientists and doctors this deeply involved with the issue of vivisection.

For our review, we are delighted to give you a first glance into the much-anticipated documentary, The Ghosts In Our Machine, directed by Liz Marshall. You've heard about this film for a while, and, finally, it's getting ready for public consumption. Ghosts follows photographer Jo-Anne McArthur as she documents various forms of animal exploitation around the globe. The movie itself is a piece of art; don't miss this rare opportunity to get a glimpse into why this film is about to change the world.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“We must try to contribute joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances. We must try. I didn’t always know this and am happy I lived long enough to find it out.” -Roger Ebert

*Photo on previous page, of the cow head, was taken by Jo-Anne McArthur of We Animals, and is part of the poster for The Ghosts In Our Machine.

Welcome to the 169th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jane Velez-Mitchell.

In today's episode, we discuss karma, and how the idea that what goes around comes around might only go so far. Looking at all of the hideous suffering in the world, it's hard to understand that that will be the case. So how do we reconcile that? Do we move toward embracing the idea of karma, even if it doesn't jive with us, or is it enough to believe that we each create justice, and that should be enough to get us through the rough times?

Speaking of rough times, we'll chat about creating “happy lists” – and we'll tell you what's on Mariann's! We'll also talk about our cabinet diet, our newest favorite Chinese dessert, vegan tap shoes, and why the meat that people just simply throw away sometimes seems even more offensive than the meat that people mindlessly consume (even though it's not).

Joining us today is the fabulous media powerhouse Jane Velez-Mitchell, from the nightly HLN show, Jane Velez-Mitchell. Jane will discuss with us the role that mainstream media plays in terms of animal advocacy – and the role it should play, in an ideal world, when it comes to changing the shape of things for animals. She'll let us in on the hurdles a journalist must sometimes jump over in order to get pro-animal stories aired, and she'll give us the skinny on the various ways she uses her various media platforms to speak up for animals.

For our review, we'll tell you about the award-winning 12-minute Spanish film called The Circular Glance, which is centered around a haunting analogy to animal suffering – an analogy you've likely never seen before, and one that will stick with you for a while.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“It’s the action, not the fruit of the action, that’s important. You have to do the right thing… You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result.” -Mahatma Gandhi

Dr. Will Tuttle (Photo via WorldPeaceDiet.org) Welcome to the 168th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Will Tuttle. In today's episode, we'll tell you about a huge anti-circus demonstration we attended in Brooklyn, and we'll talk about the unexpected power of grassroots activism like this. We'll also report (... More)

Dr. Will Tuttle (Photo via WorldPeaceDiet.org)

Welcome to the 168th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Will Tuttle.

In today's episode, we'll tell you about a huge anti-circus demonstration we attended in Brooklyn, and we'll talk about the unexpected power of grassroots activism like this. We'll also report back on the launch party and New York City book reading for Defiant Daughters, a new anthology for which Jasmin is a contributor – and the royalties of which benefit Our Hen House. This will lead us into a discussion about feminism and veganism, where the two collide, communicate, and possibly differ. We’ll also chat about the real cost of cheap fashion, and we'll ruminate on the similarities between certain so-called “solutions” for over-consumption of stuff, with that of the quote-unquote “humane” meat movement.

Joining us today is Will Tuttle, author, activist, musician, and do-gooder. Will will discuss with us the ideas he set in motion when he wrote The World Peace Diet; what he means by the “circle of compassion”; why he thinks we are all pre-vegans and post-vegans; and a whole lot more. Don't miss this unique interview with a longtime animal activist and all around incredible (and incredibly inspiring!) person.

For our review, we'll give you our thoughts on three new (or at least new to us) plant-based meats and veggie burgers: Beyond Meat, the Health is Wealth Sprout Burger, and Asherah's Gourmet.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“You’ve got to bust up a sidewalk sometimes, to get people to gather around.” -Bill Callahan    

Jack Norris, RD Welcome to the 167th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jack Norris, RD, with a special appearance by Katrina Donovan Fleming. On today's episode, we discuss the idea that silence equals death – a slogan made popular by the AIDS activism movement, but we're going to discuss it today as it pertains (... More)

Jack Norris, RD

Welcome to the 167th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jack Norris, RD, with a special appearance by Katrina Donovan Fleming.

On today's episode, we discuss the idea that silence equals death – a slogan made popular by the AIDS activism movement, but we're going to discuss it today as it pertains to animal activism. We'll also chat about what happens when animal advocates and vegans are misunderstood, and we'll ruminate on how to articulate – in a rational way – what we humans are taking from an animal when we take away their life, as opposed to what we take from them when we make them suffer.

Joining us today is registered dietician Jack Norris, who is also the co-author (with Virgina Messina) of Vegan For Life: Everything You Need to Know to Be Healthy and Fit on a Plant-Based Diet. In light of all of the talk lately about “lapsed vegans,” Jack is going to get down and dirty with us regarding the subject of “failure to thrive.” He'll talk, in-depth, about the ins and outs of veganism, and what specifically vegans should be mindful of when it comes to living with optimal health.

For our review, we welcome special guest Katrina Donovan Fleming, who will give us her take on the 1995 movie Powder, from a unique animal rights perspective.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

Two things of note:

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“There is no such thing as ‘humane’ meat. There’s marginally less cruel meat. Let’s call it what it is.” -Ingrid Newkirk

Featured photo on previous page (of red tail hawk) by Chris Taylor of Wild Love Photography.

Joshua Katcher (photo by Gregory Vaughan) Welcome to the 166th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Joshua Katcher from The Discerning Brute. In today's episode, we discuss our aspirations to be minimalists, the horror and unsustainability of cheap clothes, ignorant doctors, orthorexia among certain vegan subsets, (... More)

Joshua Katcher (photo by Gregory Vaughan)

Welcome to the 166th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Joshua Katcher from The Discerning Brute.

In today's episode, we discuss our aspirations to be minimalists, the horror and unsustainability of cheap clothes, ignorant doctors, orthorexia among certain vegan subsets, a theatre production focusing on loneliness in a world that doesn't recognize nontraditional connections, and the latest happenings regarding ag-gag laws.

Joining us today is Joshua Katcher, of The Discerning Brute and the vegan men's fashion line, Brave GentleMan. Joshua, a true fashion icon, is joining us today to dissect the fur industry. In this in-depth, eye-opening examination of one of the cruelest exploitative industries out there, Joshua will refute absurd claims of fur being eco-friendly, talk about the future of faux fur, lament about the current-day anti-fur movement, and eloquently point out inaccuracies touted by the fur industry's spokespeople.

For our review, we will give you a glimpse into some of the world's best instant, vegan, “just add water!” foods. (Don’t miss a special shout out to Edward & Sons, and The Vegg.)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

Two things of note:

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“The opposite of love is not hate, it’s indifference. The opposite of art is not ugliness, it’s indifference. The opposite of faith is not heresy, it’s indifference. And the opposite of life is not death, it’s indifference.” -Elie Wiesel

Welcome to the 165th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Josh Tetrick of Hampton Creek Foods.

In today's episode, we discuss the motivation that some people claim to have for leaving their veganism behind. This includes an in-depth conversation about shame, and the role it plays in our lives in terms of our choices, and our ability to live in an ethical continuum with our beliefs. We'll also discuss cravings, addictions, and the danger of misappropriating certain phrases.

Aside from that, today's ramblings will include talk of bunions and onions, as well as oppression-flavored cosmetics for kids, and whether or not introversion is a diagnosis.

Joining us today is a man who gives us hope and inspiration. We'll talk with Josh Tetrick, the CEO of Hampton Creek Foods, the company responsible for Beyond Eggs, a new product that is about to change the shape of animal agriculture forever. Hold onto your oven mitts, and keep your champagne close at hand. This is the future.

For our review, we'll talk about an old episode of the TV show “30 Days,” which is now available on Netflix instant streaming.  In this episode (Season 3, Episode 3), which we're eager to discuss with you, a hunter spends a month living with a group of PETA activists, where he attends protests, learns about animal issues, and dines solely on vegan grub. Will he come out changed? We'll talk about this episode, and about the role that these kinds of social experiments have when it comes to social justice.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“Who feeds a hungry animal, feeds his own soul.” -Charlie Chaplin

Welcome to the 164th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Silja Kallsen-MacKenzie and Liz Dee.

In today's episode, we talk about the vegans at the Oscars, and the difficulty of celebrity worship. We'll talk about last week's eye-opening and popular New York Times Magazine article, The Extraordinary Science of Addictive Junk Food, and ruminate on how broken our food system is. (Now if only the media would start connecting the dots more when it comes to animal products!) We'll tell you all about our time talking at the Main Street Vegan Academy, and we'll give you an update about a resource that those traveling with a darling pit bull might want to have on hand (aside from plenty of peanut butter and carrots, that is).

Today we are joined by two special guests: First, all the way from Berlin, we'll be chatting with Silja Kallsen-MacKenzie, from the Albert Schweitzer Foundation. Silja will let us in on one of the biggest factory farm protests in history, right there in Berlin, and she'll tell you about her many efforts to change the world for animals, as well as give us a glimpse into the vegan scene in Germany. Then, we'll be joined by the charming Liz Dee, who has what is perhaps the most fascinating going vegan story we've ever heard – and we just had to have her share it with you. (Liz, by the way, has recently joined Our Hen House as the publications coordinator! Lucky us!)

For our review, we'll tell you about 3 new popcorn products that vegans (and non-vegans, for that matter), absolutely need to know about. They come from the folks over at Earth Balance (note that the three items that we’re reviewing today are palm oil-free). These might just change your snack life for good.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“I tore myself away from the safe comfort of certainties through my love for truth — and truth rewarded me.” -Simone de Beauvoir

Dr. Melanie Joy Welcome to the 163rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Melanie Joy.  In today's episode, we talk about the recent movie we saw that moved us to copious tears, over and over, and how and why it touched our activist spirit. We'll tell you about our Valentine's Day, and why Mariann is the Grinch (... More)

Dr. Melanie Joy

Welcome to the 163rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Melanie Joy. 

In today's episode, we talk about the recent movie we saw that moved us to copious tears, over and over, and how and why it touched our activist spirit. We'll tell you about our Valentine's Day, and why Mariann is the Grinch who tried to steal it. On the upside, there's a new lesbian bar in our neighborhood, and we'll tell you about the delicious vegan meal we had there. (DEAR THE DALLOWAY, PLEASE MAKE VEGAN OPTIONS A PERMANENT ADDITION TO YOUR MENU! THANKS! LOVE, THE HENS.)

Then we'll talk about the popularity of fur, and the articles coming out left and right talking about how it's the “in thing.” We'll discuss the frightening inaccuracies of industry PR people who make very inaccurate statements about fur and, for that matter, faux fur, and we'll chat about one designer's quest to set them straight.

We'll also give you an update about the Oregon Zoo's latest stunt, and we'll remember Pat Derby.

Joining us today is, once again, the fabulous Dr. Melanie Joy, in her most eye-opening, dare I say life-altering interview yet with us. She'll talk about how stories feminists tell serve as a model for animal activists. She'll enlighten us about how this relates to carnism, and she'll also offer a “101” on what carnism is. She'll tell us about dominant narratives about veganism that vegans sometimes buy into, and how that can harm the ability to be effective. She'll confront the question of “personal choice” and offer us vegans some very useful new ways of seeing advocacy. She'll talk about so much more, too, so don't miss this – truly. (And don’t miss Melanie’s recent article on One Green Planet.)

For our review, Mariann will tell us about her newest read, Dog On It: A Chet and Bernie Mystery, by Spencer Quinn, and she'll chat about why it's so enjoyable to read a book narrated by a dog.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“Animals can communicate quite well. And they do. And generally speaking, they are ignored.” -Alice Walker 

Welcome to the 162nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Chloe Coscarelli, with a special appearance by JL Fields.

In today's episode, we have loads to update you on from our vegan happenings this past week, including the Betty Goes Vegan launch party at NYC's MooShoes, the Vaute Couture vegan fashion show that was part of New York Fashion Week, and a glimpse into a performance art piece called VEAL, which was inspired by Timothy Pachirat's book, Every Twelve Seconds: Industrialized Slaughter and the Politics of Sight. We'll also chat about omnis who proclaim that the vegan version of a traditionally-based animal product should be given a completely different name.

Joining us today is award-winning vegan chef, Chloe Coscarelli, whose new book, Chloe's Vegan Desserts, is being released this week. Chloe, who will appear on “The Today Show” on February 19, will chat with us about everything from why vegan baking is similar to advocacy, to how Paris is unexpectedly vegan-friendly, to which everyday items lurking in each of our kitchen cabinets can easily be transformed into an essential ingredient for any vegan baker wannabe.

Also joining us is JL Fields, of JL Goes Vegan, who will share with us 5 Tips on Relocating as a Vegan. Word to the wise, though: Don't bypass this useful and inspiring review, even if you aren't intending on moving anywhere. These tips are relevant even to those of us who plan on staying put, provided, of course, that we're looking for some useful pointers for mainstreaming veganism in our very own community – even if we sometimes think we’re the only vegans in town (we’re not). JL is a powerhouse; stay tuned to find out why. (And don’t miss JL’s campaign to raise $1,095 — that’s $1 for each day she’s been vegan — to support Our Hen House’s efforts to change the world for animals!)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

“We need, in a special way, to work twice as hard to help people understand that the animals are fellow creatures, that we must protect them and love them as we love ourselves.” -César Chávez

Welcome to the 161st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dylan Powell.

Today, we share with you some big news: the hens got hitched. Hey, that's us! That's right, we tied the knot, City Hall style, and today we'll tell you all about it – from the June Cleaver-inspired dress Jasmin wore, to the vegan brunch we had in Chinatown following our nuptials, to the fruit we gorged on that afternoon while watching “Battlestar Gallactica” in our PJ's – the perfect wedding day. Later on today's episode, Sally Tamarkin, one of our witnesses and dearest friends, will give you her take on our marriage, letting you in on some of the quirkier moments of our big – yet small – yet huge day.

Also today, we will discuss the importance of the “vegan” label, and how, for some folks, when they create “fall-back rules,” they tend to make those rules the norm, as opposed to the exception. Why not just give it your all?

Joining us today is Niagara-based activist Dylan Powell, who will get us up to speed on some important developments in the campaign against Marineland's cruelty to animals. Regardless of whether you're in the Niagara region, you will want to know about Marineland's efforts to silence activists, and we'll find out how we can each get involved in doing our part to put an end to this egregious animal cruelty. Dylan, who has joined us before on Our Hen House, is one of the brightest guys we know, and you won't want to miss this first-hand account of Marineland cruelty.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights. For a list of the news items we discuss in today episode, and then some, take a look at the breaking news ticker at the top of ourhenhouse.org, and also check out our list of archived news items.

“I don’t believe in the concept of hell, but if I did I would think of it as filled with people who were cruel to animals.” -Gary Larson

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

Welcome to the 160th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Josh Balk.

In today's episode, we discuss how to develop good habits, and we'll confess why we apparently can't. We'll chat about being sent random animal stories from people who aren't necessarily tuned in to animal rights issues – and we'll ponder when that can be edifying and when it can be annoying. We'll also squawk about everything from vegan sushi, to “Battlestar Gallactica,” to super foods, to how Our Hen House is expanding.

Joining us today is Josh Balk from the Humane Society of the United States, and a volunteer for New Harvest – a company aimed at “advancing meat substitutes.” Josh will speak with us about in vitro and plant-based meats, and he'll give us the skinny about whether or not that is the next direction in which our society is headed. Will the meat industrial complex shift to fulfill this growing and compassionate consumer demand?

For our review, Our Hen House's Ari Solomon will join us once again. Ari has some thrilling news about his newest animal rights undertaking, and he'll share that with us. He'll also give us his take on the children's book, The One and Only Ivan, by Katherine Applegate, illustrated by Patricia Castelao, which explores the story of a sweet gorilla named Ivan, and his journey into – and possibly out of – confinement.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Few are those who see with their own eyes and feel with their own hearts.” -Albert Einstein

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

Dan and Annie Shannon Welcome to the 159th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Annie and Dan Shannon, authors of Betty Goes Vegan. In today's episode, we discuss the National Hog Farmer's take on the role of Meatless Mondays. We like to file this discussion under the category, “Anxieties Rising!” Under that same (... More)

Dan and Annie Shannon

Welcome to the 159th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Annie and Dan Shannon, authors of Betty Goes Vegan.

In today's episode, we discuss the National Hog Farmer's take on the role of Meatless Mondays. We like to file this discussion under the category, “Anxieties Rising!” Under that same category, we chat about the ridiculous stance by some of the media regarding why vegans are responsible for the decline of Peruvian culture, and we'll also tell you about one of our podcast listener's stories about their encounter with a woman who adamantly declared that the rainforest is being destroyed for tofu. Really? No, not really. We'll squawk about why sometimes, all we need is the perspective of The Onion, and we'll share a delightful and unlikely story of how Jasmin’s grandmother's Our Hen House article on changing the world resulted in a reader putting together that, 50 years ago, my grandma knew her grandpa! Small world! We'll also chat about smoothie fasts, moving woes, and why we cannot seem to unpack our bags.

Joining us today is the fabulous duo behind the new cookbook, Betty Goes Vegan – Annie and Dan Shannon. Annie and Dan, who are also the dynamos behind the popular blog, Meet the Shannons, will tell us about their new book, which veganizes 500 Betty Crocker recipes. They'll tell us about how they feel their their book speaks to feminism, how liquid smoke can always save the day, the secret ingredients that make their recipes so delectable (Bisquick might or might not be one of them), the support they've received from Bettyheads, and, on a somewhat different note, their favorite movies from the 1980's! This book, Betty Goes Vegan, which is about to be released in early February, is going to be huge. We can't wait for you to hear their interview with us.

For our review, we'll tell you all about the documentary, Samsara, a documentary without words that was filmed in over twenty-five countries throughout the course of five years, and documents the way the world works, taking viewers to sacred grounds, disaster zones, industrial sites, and natural wonders. Among the artistic, harrowing, and beautiful journeys we go on, we take an unsettling and vitally important look into animal agriculture. We'll tell you all about it.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society.” -Krishnamurti

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

Welcome to the 158th episode – and the 3rd anniversary – of Our Hen House, featuring Peter Brandt.

In today's episode, we settle back into our normal routines here in the Big Apple, which includes summer rolls at Soy and Sake, karaoke with some inspiring vegan entrepreneurs, teaching animal law to a group of fresh new faces, and shopping for real estate in surprisingly quaint and vegan-friendly pockets of the city. We'll give you the skinny on all of that, as well as talk about the 30 Day Shred, inappropriate crushes, and Defiant Daughters – a forthcoming anthology centered around the groundbreaking work of Carol Adams, in which Jasmin has written a chapter. Have we mentioned that the book will benefit Our Hen House?

Today marks the 3rd year anniversary of Our Hen House! We have indeed brought you a new podcast episode every single week since we started in January 2010, and today we'll chat about some of those early day adventures — and misadventures. (For a blast from the past, howzabout settling in and listening to Episode 1 –but please don’t hold it against us)?

We'll also discuss an amusing piece written on the animal agriculture blog, Meatingplace. We think you'll join us in chuckling about how we animal activists were described. And we'll talk about how the media is reacting to glimpses into what goes on behind closed doors for animals. We find it oddly hopeful.

Joining us today is Peter Brandt, the Senior Attorney for Farm Animal Litigation with the Humane Society of the United States' Animal Protection Litigation section. Peter will talk to us about the Pork Check-off litigation, a compelling case recently brought by HSUS involving allegations of misappropriation of tax-payer funds by the meat industry. Whether you're a lawyer like Mariann, or a layperson like Jasmin, you'll want to listen up.

For our review, we will give you a taste of Freekehlicious, the amazing grain that you have got to try. We’ll tell you why!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Each species is a masterpiece, a creation assembled with extreme care and genius.” -Edward O. Wilson

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

Here’s to another 3 glorious years!

Welcome to Our Hen House! Welcome to the 157th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kate Jacoby and Rich Landau from Philadelphia's gourmet vegan restaurant, Vedge; Queer Vegan Food's Sarah E. Brown and cleansing coach Courtney Pool; social worker and entrepreneur Lisa Siroti from NJ’s Papa Ganache; and a special (... More)

Welcome to Our Hen House!

Welcome to the 157th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kate Jacoby and Rich Landau from Philadelphia's gourmet vegan restaurant, Vedge; Queer Vegan Food's Sarah E. Brown and cleansing coach Courtney Pool; social worker and entrepreneur Lisa Siroti from NJ’s Papa Ganache; and a special interview with Jasmin’s mother, Roni Omohundro, and  grandmother, Sherrey Reim Glickman.

In today's episode, our fourth and final one from the Our Hen House Cross Country Road Trip Numero Dos, we come to you from Staunton, VA, Maryland, Gettysburg, PA, Philadelphia, New Jersey, and then, at long last, we land at home in New York City!

Today we bring to you a very special line-up of movers and shakers whom we met along this last leg of our journey! They include Kate Jacoby and Rich Landau from Philadelphia's gourmet vegan restaurant, Vedge; Queer Vegan Food's Sarah E. Brown and cleansing coach Courtney Pool; social worker and entrepreneur Lisa Siroti, who is the force behind the unique NJ-based vegan bakery, Papa Ganache – which provides alternative therapeutic interventions for youth by utilizing the inner workings of a vegan bakery; and a special interview with two of our favorite animal advocates, Jasmin’s mother, Roni Omohundro, and her 88-year-old grandmother, Sherrey Reim Glickman, who will talk about her own journey to ditching fur, and how becoming wheelchair-bound resulted in her being able to identify with animals in a whole new light.

Jasmin Singer with her grandmother, Sherrey Reim Glickman, who is featured on today’s show.

Throughout this episode, we will discuss everything from thinking outside the vegan bubble, to recognizing that animal rights activists frequently pop up in the unlikeliest of places, to how it feels to finally step foot back in Manhattan after being away for 6 months, to why Walla Walla onions have a permanent place in our hearts.

Since we couldn't resist, for our review today, we'll give you an insider look into Philadelphia's Vedge, which is reconnecting with the power and potential of the vegetable, and redefining vegan cuisine as we know it. Whether or not you're near the City of Brotherly Love, this review will awaken your taste buds, and inspire you to visit the produce section of your grocery store, and fast.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

Anna Politkovskaya once said, “I don't like the word courage. It is simply duty.”

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

Welcome to the 156th episode of Our Hen House, featuring PETA's Carney Anne Small ; PCRM's Lea Pickard; Doug White; Stewart David ; and Terri David .

In today's episode – our 3rd consecutive week from the road – we're finally making some progress on the great Our Hen House road trip from Portland to back home in New York City. We will bring you along with us to Louisiana (including Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans), Mississippi (including Jackson), Alabama (including Montgomery), Georgia (including Atlanta), North Carolina (including Asheville), and Tennessee.

Today, we bring you three very different interviews with animal rights activists, including PETA attorney Carney Anne Small , who not only showed us around New Orleans, but also enlightened us about the legal issues she's working on, including an update on Ben the Bear; Lea Pickard and Doug White , who made us green smoothies in Jackson, MS, and chatted with us about everything from PCRM's vegan advocacy (also known as Lea's day job), to terrible treatment of slaughterhouse workers (also known as Doug's dissertation topic); and we even talk to their 8-month-old, Jack , the official youngest person interviewed on Our Hen House. We'll also have the opportunity to catch up with Asheville-based activists Stewart and Terri David , who have strong and compelling opinions about grassroots advocacy, and writing letters to the editor. When it comes to talking with Stewart, who was, by the way, the first-ever Our Hen House podcast guest, and his other half, Terri, we each have much to learn. They are true pioneers and animal rights heroes.

In addition to speaking with this fine group of changemakers, we will chat about captivity, criminal defense, health food stores, civil rights, hope, vegan food, of course, and chicory coffee. As with the past couple weeks, today's podcast episode was largely recorded while on the road, quite literally, so before you listen, you might want to have some Dramamine nearby.

For our review, we will discuss the children's novel, A Dog Named Randall , by Marian Hailey-Moss. This wonderful read – which truthfully, is appropriate for all ages – tells the story of Ned, a boy who discovers an abandoned dog, and then opens his heart to veganism. Don't miss our takeaway from this unique and fast read.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“Change does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability, but comes through continuous struggle.” -Martin Luther King

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long (and then some) podcast episode each week!

Welcome to the 155th episode of Our Hen House, featuring interviews with Carrie Forrest, Alan Seidner, Ben Braman, Kelly Galligan, Amanda Lanza , Kathleen Lohnes, Kathy Iannacone, and Fernanda Guevara.

In today's episode, we continue our road trip adventure from Portland, OR, back home to New York City. Today's travels bring us to Yucca Valley, Palm Desert, Tucson, Tombstone, Bisbee, El Paso, Junction, San Antonio, and Austin. We'll share with you interviews from passionate vegans and animal rights activists whom we meet along the way, including Carrie Forrest from Carrie On Vegan, her other half, Alan Seidner, Ben Braman from Vegan Feed, the folks behind Tucson's newest vegan restaurant and educational center, Urban Fresh, Bisbee's sole vegan restaurant owner (of POCO), Kelly Galligan, and scientist and athlete Amanda Lanza. We'll also chat about everything from missing Christmas, to motel breakfasts, to unexpected trips to the vet, to the new most common excuse people give for why they can't be vegan (of course they can…).

Being the final episode of 2012, we will also give you our top 10 highlights from Our Hen House in the past year . Head's up though: One of us might get a little verklempt.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“Whatever you believe you can do, begin it; boldness has genius, power and magic in it.” -Goethe

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed . The Seed is currently working hard on putting together another huge vegan tradeshow in NYC, this one coming in early April. We will once again be speaking, and we're already eagerly anticipating this massive, inspiring event. Stay on top of The Seed by signing up for their fun, thought-provoking e-newsletter, and by reading their blog. Visit theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long podcast episode each week!

Welcome to the 154th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kim Sturla from Animal Place, Allison Rivers Samson from Allison's Gourmet, and Tara Oresick from Farm Sanctuary, with a special appearance by Piper Hoffman.

Today's episode starts off our big road trip adventure from Portland to NYC, by way of California. In the coming weeks, we'll be giving you our tales from the road, as well as interviews with animal rights activists and passionate vegans whom we meet along the way. Today we'll start you off with our exodus out of Portland, and then we'll take you to Ashland, OR, and then on to California. In the Golden State, this week we'll visit Redding, Orland, Grass Valley, Nevada City, Placerville, Fresno, and Mariposa.

Joining us today are three exquisite activists we had the honor to hook up with along the way. First we'll hear from Tara Oresick, Farm Sanctuary's Orland Shelter Director. Tara will talk to us about how cool chickens really are – be prepared to be awed, and to “awwww” more than once. We'll chat with Allison Rivers Samson, the force behind Allison's Gourmet, a vegan chocolate company and bakery that is committed to providing ethically-sourced, slavery-free, fair-trade goodies – which, by the way, are among the most delicious we've ever had. Allison will talk to us about, among other things, the importance (not to mention satisfaction) of running a business in accordance with your ethical values. Then we'll head over to Animal Place, where founder Kim Sturla will talk to us about what it's been like rescuing animals and providing them sanctuary for the past 30 years. She'll also share her feelings about so-called “humane” meat, and the dire importance of proper messaging when it comes to speaking up for animals.

In addition to our road trip – and we're podcasting while driving, by the way – we'll ruminate on gun control, violence and anti-violence, oppressive children's toys, barking up the wrong vegan tree, and kale salad.

For our review, yet another fantastic woman is joining us – the lovely and smart Piper Hoffman. Piper will share her thoughts on the documentary, Saving America's Horses. Don't miss this summary of the plight of and fight for these gorgeous creatures. Really and truly, your mind will be blown.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“People would rather believe than know.” -Edward O. Wilson

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed. The Seed is currently working hard on putting together another huge vegan tradeshow in NYC, this one coming in early April. We will once again be speaking, and we're already eagerly anticipating this massive, inspiring event. Stay on top of The Seed by signing up for their fun, thought-provoking e-newsletter, and by reading their blog. Visit theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes! 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! Don't forget – we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us to bring you a new, hour-long podcast episode each week!

Welcome to the 153rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Gena Hamshaw.

In today's episode, we discuss our appearance on HuffPo Live with The Birds' Tippi Hedren, where we discussed big cats. Today on the podcast we'll also talk about big elephants, and the tweet that made us snappish with the Oregon Zoo. We'll talk about zoos, as a matter of fact, and give you our unabashed thoughts on captive breeding. Closer to home, we'll tell you about our dog Rose's recent accomplishment (she has the certificate to prove it!).  And we'll make a public apology to Norah Jones.

Our big news this week is that finally, at long last, Our Hen House expanded to become an online magazine! Though we're sleep deprived this week in Our Hen House, we'll tell you all about the amazing goodies we have launched with this new undertaking, including a look inside of my grandmother's popular feature article, “Never Too Late to Change the World,” as well as the other features, columns, news, and bells and whistles that now make up the new, dynamic ourhenhouse.org. We're excited to share all of this with you today.

Today is our last episode from Portland, Oregon, and we'll share with you our Top 10 Portland experiences! You might be surprised – not to mention hungry, thirsty, and needing craft supplies – when we share our list.

Click the mic to subscribe to our podcast on iTunes!

‘Tis the season once again, and we'll squawk about the holidays, including by sharing some thoughts about a very inspiring Christmas concert we went to last week. We'll talk about Hanukah, too – don't worry.

Joining us today is certified clinical nutritionist Gena Hamshaw, who blogs at the wildly popular Choosing Raw. Gena will tell us about a groundbreaking new study she is involved with that explores how a vegan diet can help people suffering from IBD – Inflammatory Bowel Disease. We're so excited to see an issue like this finally being looked at through a vegan lens.

For our review, we'll talk about a new video starring Steve-O, yes that Steve-O, from JackAss. This time, Steve-O's explicit video involves speaking out for the animals. We'll give you our takeaway from it, and also have an interesting chat about labels.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“We are not to simply bandage the wounds of victims beneath the wheels of injustice, we are to drive a spoke into the wheel itself.” -Dietrich Bonhoeffer

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 152nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Sasha Boojor from 269 Life.

In today's episode, we discuss desire versus need — as it relates to consuming animal products. We talk about the anxieties of the mainstream rising, how that plays out in everything from Norah Jones songs to sitcom themes, and why that's a good thing. (Pardon our indefatigable positivity.)

‘Tis the season for compassion, so we'll also chat about our holiday plans, and how our upcoming mega road trip around the perimeter of the United States will be laced with tons of holiday-style vegan goodness.

Joining us today is Sasha Bojoor, one of the forces behind the 269 movement. Sasha joins us from Israel, and will tell us about this controversial, powerful, and unique campaign, which, on December 18, will reverberate throughout 20 countries.

For our review, we'll give you our thoughts about the new French fictional movie about the Animal Liberation Front.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“They do not sweat and whine about their condition, they do not lie awake in the dark and weep for their sins, they do not make me sick discussing their duty to God, not one is dissatisfied, not one is demented with the mania of owning things, not one kneels to another, nor to his kind that lived thousands of years ago.” -Walt Whitman

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 151st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Frances Carlisle, who will discuss estate planning for companion animals.

In today's episode, we discuss the shit that went down with Ellen DeGeneres casually proclaiming that she now eats eggs, which she gets from her neighbor's hens, because they're “happy,” she says. We'll debunk that silly and misguided notion, and talk about the open letter we wrote to Ellen, and the pushback we received because of it.

Then we'll report back on our Thanksgiving, including the Tofurky Trot we helped to organize, which raised money for victims of Hurricane Sandy, supporting the efforts of the vegan food truck The Cinnamon Snail, which is providing free vegan grub to those still without power or, in some cases, a home.

We'll talk about evolution versus revolution, and when we should redefine oppressive traditions in a compassionate way — or if we should obliterate the traditions completely. This, of course, relates to both Thanksgiving and veganism, and so much more!

We'll also chat about Disney, grocery store outreach, and Internet comments. Plus, in a segment we like to call “The Professor and Mariann,” where Mariann tells us all about what she covered in her animal law classes from the previous week, she will talk about everything from fish-farming to wildlife laws.

Joining us today is Frances Carlisle, a lawyer who been working tirelessly for animal rights since the 1970's, who will speak to us about trusts and estates law as it applies to companion animals. Fran will give all of us some necessary information about estate planning for our companion animals, as well as the skinny on pet trusts, care-taking for animals when we ourselves get sick or injured, and lessons learned from Leona Helmsley.

For our review, we'll tell you all about our adventures using a tempeh maker! If homemade tempeh intrigues you – or perhaps frightens you – don't miss this review.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“New and stirring things are belittled because if they are not belittled the humiliating question arises ‘Why then are you not taking part in them?’” -H.G. Wells

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 150th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dan Mathews. 

On today's show, we celebrate 150 episodes of changing the world for animals! This includes talk of some of our most memorable guests and episodes since we celebrated 100, and a look ahead at what's in store, as well as our thoughts for vegan-pie-in-the-sky guests.

We'll talk squawk about pigeon tattoos, eyebrow advocacy, and why the mainstream doesn't always get it when the joke is on them.

In our segment, “The Professor and Mariann,” Mariann will discuss the happenings from her animal law classes, including the First Amendment, as well as economics and health based litigation — all pertaining to animals, of course.

Joining us today is Dan Mathews, the Senior Vice President of PETA, and the author of Committed: A Rabble-Rouser's Memoir. Dan will talk to us about everything from his feelings regarding the overlaps between gay rights and animal rights, to what sort of shifts he has seen working with PETA since the 80's. He'll tell us about his role in some famed PETA stunts which have, in so many ways, shaped our society's outlook on animal rights, and he'll let us in on the next person he most wishes he could turn vegan. We'll also talk about thrifting, childhood woes, and to-do lists.

For our review today, we'll tell you all about the film, The Paw Project, a documentary which delves into the horrific world of declawing cats, and tells the story of one activist's journey to create legislation banning it.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Only if we understand can we care. Only if we care will we help. Only if we help shall they be saved.” -Jane Goodall

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 149th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Mark Hawthorne and Adam Sobel. 

In today's doozy of an episode, we talk about the tragedy of Bill and Lou, and how mainstream media is so quick to be uncritical regarding accusations that animal rights activists are horrible and violent. Speaking of violence, we'll tell you about an employee of a meat processing plant who tragically killed several of his co-workers, and then himself, and we'll chat about the violent nature of working in slaughterhouses. We'll talk about denial, and what it must do to us as a culture to be confronted, so regularly, with animal corpses – the literal embodiment of violence. Today we'll also give you some updates about Wesleyan University's ecofeminism conference, and we'll share with you some spectacular news regarding a vegan cooking show – which involves the incredible success of one of our listeners! We'll talk about The Indigo Girls, the misadventures of Jasmin’s recent visit to the gym, and, in a segment we call “The Professor and Mariann,” Mariann will update us all about the happenings from her Animal Law Classes.

Today we welcome to Our Hen House two incredibly inspiring guests. First, we will talk to activist and writer Mark Hawthorne, who will give us the skinny on his “ACTIVE” approach to avoiding burnout (you'll want to take notes). Mark will also talk with us about his feelings about the all or nothing approach, the importance of strategizing when to use what language when advocating for animals, and he'll tell us his incredibly inspiring and unique story of how an encounter with a cow led him on the path to animal rights activism.

Then, we are thrilled to welcome Adam Sobel, the owner of The Cinnamon Snail – a vegan food truck in the NYC and NJ area, which has been working on the frontlines of the wreckage of Hurricane Sandy, providing free vegan food to its victims. Adam will tell us about his efforts, and update us on the tragedy that is still afflicting so much the Northeast.

To that end, Jasmin is helping to organize a Tofurky Trot this Thanksgiving in Portland, Oregon, and we’ll tell you a bit about that. The proceeds of the trot will go directly to The Cinnamon Snail's rescue efforts, so that they can continue to feed free vegan food to the people deeply affected by this killer storm. Whether or not you're in Portland, we hope you'll consider donating to The Cinnamon Snail.

For our review, we'll discuss our newest favorite vegan book – Vegan Food Gifts: More Than 100 Inspired Recipes for Homemade Baked Goods, Preserves, and Other Edible Gifts Everyone Will Love, by Joni Marie Newman. This book offers a unique take, and refreshing tools on living compassionately and consciously.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Never apologize for being correct. Many people, especially ignorant people, want to punish you for speaking the truth. For being correct. For being you. Never apologize for being correct, or for being years ahead of your time. If you're right and you know it, speak your mind. Speak your mind. Even if you are a minority of one, the truth is still the truth.” -Gandhi 

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products. Also be sure to sign up for The Seed’s new weekly e-newsletter (sign up on the top right corner of their website).

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 148th episode of Our Hen House, featuring philosopher Ramona Ilea. 

In today's episode, we discuss the election, and whether animals will be front and center in politics anytime soon. We'll talk about why vegan foods are necessary to prepare for crisis. And, speaking of food, we'll tell you about our favorite one-ingredient ice cream. We'll lament about how we didn't get any trick-or-treaters on Halloween; we'll confess to you all about the children's film we saw; and we'll squawk about vegan crafting. We'll chat about social networking and whether its impact in terms of social change is as big as we are sometimes led to believe; we'll tell you about a vegan food truck in NYC that is helping some victims of Hurricane Sandy; and we'll whine about the overabundance of oppression in TV commercials. Then, in a segment we like to call “The Professor and Mariann,” Mariann will get us up to speed on the happenings from her animal law classes, including updates on everything from the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act, to Food Disparagement Laws, to issues involved in Legal Standing – as it relates to animals. We'll also talk about Instagram, upcoming conferences, and pumpkins.

Joining us today is philosopher and ethicist Ramona Ilea, who will lead us through an accessible, entertaining, and thought-provoking lesson in Philosophy 101 as it pertains to animal rights. Be prepared to say “ah-ha!” more than once, and get your notepads ready – because you'll want to take notes.

For our review, we'll tell you all about the book, But You Kill Ants, by John Waddell, which provides straight-forward, logical answers to every question you can think of pertaining to animal rights and veganism – both the legitimate ones, and the eye-roll worthy.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

 “All the arguments to prove man’s superiority cannot shatter this hard fact: in suffering the animals are our equals.” -Peter Singer

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 147th episode of Our Hen House, featuring James McWilliams.

In today's episode, we give you our thoughts, and some updates, on the horrific aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. These include everything from thoughts on forgotten animals, to updates on how this hit close to home for us – quite literally – to the glaringly obvious, yet still unspoken reality, that this kind of storm will soon be commonplace.

We'll also tell you about the vegan vittles at Jasmin’s birthday party, including a recap of everything from henna, to upcycling, to the gluten-free cake that was forced upon us. We'll chat about musicals, Brussels Sprouts, and the delightful items one podcast listener named after us.

Hold onto your rescued horses, folks, because today we'll also ruminate about the dire importance of independent media, and we'll let you in on a very prominent lefty journalist who – according to the word on the street – recently went vegan. Moving on, we'll ask you to help someone in our community to get her stellar vegan cooking show on a PBS station near you; we'll discuss zoos; and we'll vent about people eating corpses right next to us on our fancy night out. Mariann will also get us up to speed on the happenings in her animal law class in a segment we like to call “The Professor and Mariann.”

Joining us today is the one and only James McWilliams, historian, scholar, and author. James will give us the inside scoop on his new book, his prolific work surrounding the Bill and Lou saga, his feelings about Jonathan Safran Foer, and why and how he ties his personal activism to his long-distance running. Don't miss this interview with one of our favorite activists and people.

For our review, we'll talk about a recent episode of the TV show, Bones, starring vegan activist Emily Deschanel. The new episode, entitled “The Tiger in the Tale,” brings to light important issues involving wild animals held in captivity, as well as several other through-lines that will likely prompt you to write a big fat thank you note to Fox (I'll bet you never thought that would happen!). We'll tell you all about it.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“When a man loves cats, I am his friend and comrade without further introduction.” –Mark Twain

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 146th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Julieanna Hever, David Wolfson, and Diane Lenkowsky. 

In today's episode, which, lemme tell ya, is a doozy of one, we talk about hopeful signs for veganism in the future, as noted in a popular Hollywood time-travel flick. And we talk about Jasmin’s birthday, which is – wow, this Tuesday – and let you in on what Our Hen House has to do with it. Then (and this is where the doozy comes in), we discuss animal testing and research, at length, and even bring in a bright young law student — Diane Lenkowsky — to the conversation. We'll also tell you about the high points of the Animal Law Conference, where we spoke last weekend, and on that note, in a segment we like to call “The Professor and Mariann,” Mariann – a.k.a., “the professor” – will let us in on the riveting happenings from her class this past week.

Lightening and brightening it up for us today, joining us is the fabulous Julieanna Hever, vegan dietician, bestselling author, and media personality. Julieanna, who has recently appeared on more mainstream TV shows than Ellen, will shed light for us on how the mainstream media is softening, even awakening, to the dire importance of veganism. Julieanna will also debunk the ridiculous Paleo fad for us, and give us her take on the word “plant-based.”

For our review, we are humbled and thrilled to welcome back David Wolfson – animal law guru, scholar, professor, do-gooder, friend, and all around great guy. David recently organized an exciting talk at NYU as part of their Animal Studies program, where NY Times film critic, Manohla Dargis, dialogued with him about animals used in film. David will chat with us about how the event went over. You may be surprised by some of Manohla's views – perhaps pleasantly so!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If we cut up beasts simply because they cannot prevent us and because we are backing our own side in the struggle for existence, it is only logical to cut up imbeciles, criminals, enemies, or capitalists for the same reasons.” -C.S. Lewis 

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently gearing up for a Yoga Week – 5 days of urban zen and plant-based empowerment. The Seed brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 145th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Judy Woods from Pigs Peace Sanctuary, and Katie Gillespie from the University of Washington Animal Studies Working Group. 

In today's episode, we come to you from Seattle, where we were giving a talk on “Animals and Academia” at the University of Washington. We'll tell you about how it went, a few of the things we covered, and we'll also let you in on some of the other glorious vegan happenings we experienced during our visit.

In addition to that, we'll talk about the many recent mentions of animal products that we've noticed regularly popping up in the mainstream media, and we'll ruminate on why we think it's coming from a defensive, “ag-driven” place. We'll talk about our feature in VegNews.com on our cross country vegan road trip, we'll tell you about this weekend's upcoming Animal Law Conference where we'll be presenting, and we'll chat about vegan dogs. Mariann will update you on the happenings in her animal law classes, and we'll converse on what it means to break up the families of animals.

While in Seattle, we were lucky enough to visit Pigs Peace Sanctuary, and we'll let you in on the fabulousness of our trip. To that end, joining us today is Pigs Peace director, Judy Woods, who will give us the skinny on everything from what it's like for the property to be directly next door to animal exploiters, to — on the happier side — why and how she decided to incorporate animal-friendly art everywhere you look at the sanctuary. Katie Gillespie, one of the organizers of the University of Washington's Animal Studies Working Group, will also join us for the interview, providing us with lots of insight about everything from the power of sanctuaries and of connecting with individual animals, to what it's like working in academia to change the world for animals.

For our review, we will talk about a Seattle-based vegan product that you might have already heard of: Field Roast Grain Meat. Here's a warning, though: This will make you hungry, and you might feel compelled to lick your iPods. (Don't.)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If I were to remain silent, I’d be guilty of complicity.” -Albert Einstein

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently planning a very special event entitled Vegan Dogs: The Truth About Fido's Meatless Diet, which we'll tell you more about on today's episode. But don't forget to check out theseedexperience.com for more details, and to get tickets. “Vegan Dogs” is taking place in New York City on October 23, so act fast.
The Seed: A Vegan Experience brings you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 144th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Del Sroufe, with a special appearance by Ari Solomon. 

In today's episode, we talk about everything from the airplane-like motor on our Vitamix, to the gallant gentleman who asked Jasmin to dance at a swing club (approximately 20 years too late), to feelings of gluttony associated with having too much living space. We also talk about how choosing to cook without oil has nothing to do with veganism (and why we do it anyway), we compare NYC and Portland, we tell you about the half-marathon that Jasmin completed last weekend, we ruminate on how we almost went for a swim in our kitchen, and we tell you about the new piece of clothing that is effectively calming down our sometimes-anxious pup. We also ramble a bit about light things like moral imperatives, compassion, and self-prescribed blinders. In the segment “The Professor and Mariann,” Mariann will update us on the goings-on in her farmed animal law class and her animal law fundamentals class.

Joining us today is Del Sroufe, the mastermind and master chef behind Forks Over Knives — the Cookbook: Over 300 Recipes for Plant-Based Eating All Through the Year. Del, whose food journey has led him to lose 200 pounds, will talk to us about how he got there. He'll also talk about the Forks Over Knives phenomenon, and he'll give us a glimpse into some success stories from people who have transformed their health by going from the Standard American Diet to a whole-foods based vegan one. He'll talk recipes, too, and answer questions about the healthiest kinds of fat to incorporate into our diets, what his favorite grains are, and why he encourages people to make their own sauces and spreads as opposed to buying them in the store. Don't miss this incredibly inspiring chef, and the unique wisdom he has to offer.

For our review, Our Hen House's darling Ari Solomon will give us his take on Forks Over Knives – the Cookbook. Ari took his turn at making several of the recipes, and he'll talk about his favorites, as well as give us the skinny on some revelations he had while knee deep in vegan macaroni salad. As always, Ari will entertain and enlighten, so don't miss the incredibly colorful perspective of one of our favorite guys.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, bringing you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products. Learn more at theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 143rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Colleen Patrick-Goudreau. 

In today's episode, we talk about the USDA's decision to approve tofu as a meat substitute for school lunches (and we kvetch about some people's confusion about whether or not that's a good thing. Here's a hint: it is). We also discuss the pros and cons of referring to plant-based milk as “milk,” we share the good news of a contest we won this past week that resulted in tons of people learning about animal agriculture, we ruminate on the importance of seeing the good in people, we squawk about Jasmin’s running – and whether it can be explicitly tied to veganism, we update you on Mariann's animal law class happenings, and we share stories of some of the animals we met at the Oregon Humane Society.

Joining us today is the fabulous Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, whose new project, The 30 Day Vegan Challenge, is about as exciting, useful, and innovative as you get. Colleen will tell us all about this latest brainchild of hers, and she'll share with us her thoughts on how people who are already vegan can encourage those we love to follow suit. That, and a whole lot more from a true Queen of Vegan Advocacy.

For our review, we'll let you in on some of our favorite skin care products from our bathroom cabinet. Here's a teaser: One of us uses a whole lot of these products, and the other uses nothing. Can you guess who does what?

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The question is not if we will be extremists, but what kind of extremists we will be. The nation and the world are in dire need of creative extremists.” -Martin Luther King, Jr. 

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, bringing you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products. Learn more at theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 142nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kathy Hessler of Lewis & Clark Law School’s Center for Animal Law Studies. 

In today's episode, we will talk about the ironic ending of the popular book, Wild – a discussion which we think you will find thought-provoking regardless of whether or not you've read the book — so long as you care about animals. We'll let you in on the happenings from last weekend's inspiring Portland VegFest, where we gave a talk on going vegan, and we'll kvetch a little about an encounter we had there that resulted in someone hastily leaving the room in a huff. We'll tell you why. We'll talk about the importance of transition foods, one activist's funny way to display massaged kale at a feed-in, and the value of finding opportunities in those times when we are deeply annoyed. Mariann will give us the skinny on the goings-on from her Animal Law Fundamentals class, and her Animals in Agriculture class, and we'll get you up to speed about what is going on in our lives, too.

Joining us today is animal law guru Kathy Hessler, an esteemed professor, and the mastermind behind the only animal law clinic in the world. Kathy will explain what an animal law clinic is, how this one is benefiting animals, and she will give us unique insight into how legal advocacy on behalf of animals intertwines with legal advocacy on behalf of people, particularly people who are, in one way or another, disadvantaged. Kathy will also talk about how, as she says, violence is violence, and she will share with us her personal story of how social justice advocacy has taken on many incarnations in her life as an activist and a lawyer.

For our review, we will talk about the children's book, The Secret Life of Mitch Spinach, which creatively advocates for kids to eat their veggies and ditch gross, unhealthy, and non-compassionate foods. This conversation will lead to a discussion of how to best transition your kids – particularly your toddlers – to a healthy vegan lifestyle.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“It’s the action, not the fruit of the action, that’s important. You have to do the right thing… You may never know what results come from your action. But if you do nothing, there will be no result.” -Mahatma Gandhi

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, bringing you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products. Learn more at theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 141st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jenny Brown, author of The Lucky Ones: My Passionate Fight for Farm Animals.

In today's episode, we tell you about 2 exciting animal rights events we were a part of this past week. We'll give you the low-down on Honey LaBronx's new episode of the Vegan Drag Queen Cooking Show where, excitingly, we were the featured guests. We'll let you in on the best healthy cookies Jasmin has ever made, and we'll tell you about one of the best higher-end restaurants in the Pacific Northwest. Plus, Mariann will get us up to speed on her animal law classes from this past week, and we'll talk, once again, about the — eh-hem — (so called) “vulgarity” on our show.

Joining us today is none other than the fabulous Jenny Brown, co-author of the new book The Lucky Ones: My Passionate Fight for Farm Animals. Jenny, who is also the co-founder of Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary, will talk to us about everything from the connections between losing a leg as a child and growing up to advocate for farmed animals, to how she handles the sadness and anger that comes with sanctuary work, to her methods of dealing with push back that she sometimes gets from mainstream media. In this impassioned interview, Jenny will quite possibly move you to tears, and ultimately, to action.

Following Jenny's interview, we will give you our list of 10 Things to Beat the Back to School Blues (even if you haven't been in school in decades). These tips are specifically geared for those of us who care about animals, and those of us who leave them off our plates.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Do it with kindness.” -Jenny Brown

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, bringing you events, conferences, and happenings that raise awareness about the many delicious, cruelty-free alternatives to animal products. Learn more at theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 140th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Delcianna Winders, the Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement for the PETA Foundation. 

In today's episode, we talk about a restaurant whose icon to show which menu items are vegan is a sad face. We'll tell you about the letter Jasmin wrote to complain, and the one she got back, calling her a zealot.

We'll also talk to you about our glorious experience watching 20,000 swifts dance their way into the chimney of an elementary school. And Mariann will update us on what she is covering in her animal law fundamentals class and her animal in agriculture class.

Joining us today is Delcianna Winders, the Director of Captive Animal Law Enforcement for the PETA Foundation. Delci will get us up to speed on some exciting victories to recently come about for animals, including that of Ben the Bear – the story of one ambassador animal that you won't want to miss. She'll also give us some exciting updates about the fight for Lolita, the lone captive orca at the Miami Seaquarium.

For our review, we'll talk about the film Happy Feet Two, from an animal rights perspective.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“There is nothing complicated about equality.” -Alice Paul

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently planning an all-day escape to the Catskill Animal Sanctuary in upstate New York. Sign up for this trip and you can ride in comfort on a luxury motor coach, enjoy a private tour by sanctuary director Kathy Stevens, meet the rescued animal ambassadors, enjoy a gourmet vegan lunch by Chef Linda, stop at Whitecliff Vineyards for a vegan wine tasting, and, along the way, snack on delicious vegan goodies. This is all happening on September 22, 2012, and you can learn more and sign up at theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 139th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Melanie Joy. The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience. 

In today's episode, we discuss the irksome review a meat-eater wrote about an animal rights play. We also talk about everything from Rosie O'Donnell going vegan, to our dog Rose's new scent class, to how to stand up for yourself when others aim to invalidate your veganism. We'll ruminate on why people fish, and why some kids seem to inherently know it's wrong. Plus, we'll chat about Mariann's animal law classes, and about Jasmin’s newfound love of hard cider.

Joining us today is Dr. Melanie Joy, the founder and president of the Carnism Awareness & Action Network. Melanie will talk with us about everything from what the important trends are that point to the fact that people are starting to wake up to what's happening to animals, to important messages that people should have at the ready when talking about animal agriculture – and so much more. Don't miss Melanie's second visit to Our Hen House, in an interview that will surely inspire you to create change, and will likely also leave you deep in thought.

For our review, we asked 9 of our favorite vegan food bloggers and cookbook authors to talk to us about tea. You'll hear about their favorite kinds, how they like to enjoy it, and some other facts about teas and tisanes that will leave you with a strong hankering for a nice hot cup of something delightful. (BONUS! Read on for a glimpse into the tea cabinets of some of your favorite vegans!) 

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“A man is truly ethical only when he obeys the compulsion to help all life he is able to assist, and shrinks from injuring anything that lives.” -Albert Schweitzer

The Our Hen House podcast is sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is currently planning an all-day escape to the Catskill Animal Sanctuary in upstate New York. Sign up for this trip and you can ride in comfort on a luxury motor coach, enjoy a private tour by sanctuary director Kathy Stevens, meet the rescued animal ambassadors, enjoy a gourmet vegan lunch by Chef Linda, stop at Whitecliff Vineyards for a vegan wine tasting, and, along the way, snack on delicious vegan goodies. This is all happening on September 22, 2012, and you can learn more and sign up at theseedexperience.com.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

***

BONUS! Here is a sneak peek at what 9 of our favorite vegan bloggers and cookbook authors favor when it comes to teas and tisanes! Don’t miss the podcast review for a more in-depth look.

Welcome to the 138th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Ginny Messina — The Vegan R.D. 

In today’s episode, we discuss the vegan hair salon we visited this past week (The Parlour) in the incredibly charming Portland neighborhood of St. John’s. We also talk about logging, and the deep impact that comes with actually seeing exploitation — be it of the planet or of animals — when it comes to inspiring people (including us!) to create change.

Joining us today is registered dietician, Ginny Messina, half of the dynamo behind the book Vegan for Life. Ginny will discuss with us some misconceptions about vegan nutrition, and she’ll explain why — even in her field of expertise — the animals always come first.

For our review, we’ll share our thoughts on the animated film, The Lorax, which talks about a world where trees no longer exist. You will not want to miss our unique take on this flick, and you may be surprised by our feelings about it.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The least I can do is speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves.” -Jane Goodall 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 137th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jonathan Lovvorn, the senior vice president for Animal Protection Litigation & Investigations at the Humane Society of the United States.

In today’s episode, we discuss the horrendous backlash caused by Alicia Silverstone’s letter to Putin demanding that the vegan member of “PussyRiot” be given vegan food in prison. We also talk about our tour of Bob’s Red Mill, our visit to the Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge (and the unexpected wiggly visitors who said hello), the Portland Shanghai Tunnel tour, Jasmin’s exciting galavant to Ground Kontrol, an old-fashioned arcade where Jasmin got to play Centipede and Paper Boy (plus, their cafe will veganize anything!), and we’ll give you the nutshell version of our vegan eating adventures this past week. (By the way, one such vegan restaurant was in a hospital! Can you imagine?!)

Joining us today is Jonathan Lovvorn, the senior vice president for Animal Protection Litigation & Investigations at the Humane Society of the United States. Jon will talk to us about everything from the litigation department at HSUS — including some of the pending cases — to misconceptions about what the laws are that govern animals, to advice for non-lawyers who care about animals, as well as for lawyers and law students who want to help them. Don’t miss this informative and insightful interview with one of the true luminaries in animal law.

Then, we hens will talk about what we call “juice smoothies.” We’ll tell you about the evolution of our consistent and rigorous juice fast regime, and we’ll tell you how to make the perfect green juice smoothie!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“No one has ever become poor by giving.” -Anne Frank

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 136th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Seth Tibbott, founder of Tofurkey, with special guest Ari Solomon. 

In today's episode, we bite the bullet and talk Chick-fil-A, including having our own discussion that was spurred by some fellow animal advocates' take on the recent controversy. Our apologies in advance if we piss you off (and our gratitude for those of you who agree with us).

We are, of course, still here in Portland, and we'll tell you about the recent Portlandia moment Jasmin experienced, involving Starbucks. We will give you the skinny on our quick and gorgeous trip to the Oregon coast, we'll tell you about an amusement park we visited, where Jasmin insists she beat Mariann at Go Carts. We'll also let you in on our favorite new vegan restaurant here in the City of Roses.

Oh, and this past week, Mariann also discovered she has a talent for making an impeccable impersonation of a crow. Don't worry — she'll share the wealth.

Joining us today is Seth Tibbot, founder of Tofurkey! We caught up with Seth recently when we were visiting Hood River, Oregon, where he gave us a tour of the Tofurkey factory. Seth, who was once an answer on Jeopardy (!), will share his unbelievably inspiring story of how he transformed his tempeh-growing treehouse operation into an incredibly successful business with over 80 employees. Learn how this entrepreneur is creating a legacy by feeding vegan food to the masses.

For our review, OHH’s darling Ari Solomon will give us his opinion of a book he recently revisited, Free the Animals: The Story of the Animal Liberation Front, by PETA founder, Ingrid Newkirk. You'll find out how the AR scene has changed since this book was written 20 years ago, and how Ari's own advocacy has evolved ever since he first read the book at the start of his activism.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“It always seems impossible until it’s done.” -Nelson Mandela 

Seth Tibbott and the hens.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 135th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Katya Lidsky of the play, “I’m Sorry: How An Apologist Became An Activist,” as well as special guest Eric Milano. 

In today's episode, we will make you jealous with our account of the Goodwill outlet store – yes, outlet! – right by our new Portland digs, and we'll discuss the restaurant supply store that sells fresh produce en masse, and for cheap – and how that stacks up to farmer's markets and supporting local farmers. We will also tell you all about the BlogHer conference, where Jasmin spoke last week in New York City, and you'll hear the sob story of a delusional attendee who made it very clear how much she hated animals. Back in Portland, Mariann was busy preparing for the Animals in Agriculture class she is going to be teaching at Lewis & Clark Law School, and she'll give us some interesting updates and share some ruminations.

Joining us today is Katya Lidsky, whose one-woman play, “I'm Sorry: How an Apologist Became an Activist,” which opened in Los Angeles last year, is now making its way to the Big Apple (don’t miss the August 26 show, which is being dedicated to Our Hen House!). Katya will talk about how she has memorialized her veganism and her animal activism in this incredibly creative way, and will chat with us further about the unique role that the arts can play when it comes to changing the world.

For our review, 2-time Emmy Award nominee Eric Milano will join us to give us his take on the Austrian documentary, The Trial, which tells the story of several animal rights activists in search of justice, who find themselves in a legal battle.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If you can’t annoy somebody, there’s little point in writing.” -Kingsley Amis

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 134th episode of Our Hen House, featuring JL Fields of JL Goes Vegan.

In today's episode, we will give you the skinny on everything from the screening of Maximum Tolerated Dose we attended here in Portland, to the newest grain to make our hearts and stomachs sing, to the isinglass-ignorant winery employee that made us see red (and we don’t mean red wine), to inspiring conversations we overheard at Veggie Grill, to the madness of Last Thursdays on Alberta Street, to the restaurant whose incredible vegan menu made an irksome snafu.

Joining us today is JL Fields, of JL Goes Vegan. This powerhouse activist will talk to us about the truly groundbreaking grassroots work she is doing in her community and beyond to bring veganism to the fore. Be prepared to leave inspired and hungry — hungry for change, and, potentially, for chili.

For our review, we'll talk about the film, Charlotte's Web, from an animal rights perspective.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If you want to know where you would have stood on slavery before the Civil War, don't look at where you stand on slavery today. Look at where you stand on animal rights.” -Captain Paul Watson

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 133rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Rich Roll. 

In today's episode, we will give you our final glimpse into our Great American Road Trip that took us from New York City to Portland, picking up where we left off last week, with our tales from Hood River, Oregon, and the final leg of our journey to our new (temporary) home. While on the road this week, we visited the fascinating Tofurky factory, as well as the delicious Mother's Marketplace and Organic Deli – both of which we'll tell you all about. And of course, we'll bring you our first impressions of Portland, Oregon, from a – yup! — insider's perspective (!), including a look into our neighborhood of Sellwood, the nearby Wildlife Refuge that is Jasmin’s new stomping ground (or should we say, running ground), the Goodwill superstore that we have already adopted as our second home, a nut butter that changed the meaning of life for us, our favorite restaurants thus far, and a sneak peak at the various stereotypes about Portland that are, well, all true. We'll also discuss what you do next, once you are in a place where there are vegan options everywhere.

Catch us on iTunes!

Joining us today is world-renowned vegan ultra-endurance athlete Rich Roll, also known as one of Men's Fitness Magazine's ”25 Fittest Men in the World.” Rich, whose new memoir, Finding Ultra, details his plant-fueled feats of boundary-pushing athleticism, will talk to us all about finding his stride (quite literally) later in life, what foods and pastimes nourish him, what it was like to be one of the top people to complete the EPIC5, and a whole lot more. Don't miss this inspiring interview with one of the world's top athletes.

For our review, we'll give you a tasteful glimpse into the world of Tofurky, which has long evolved past just the roast, and into the world of plant-based sausage, deli slices, tempeh, and other goodies.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“What gives light must endure the burning.” -Eleanor Roosevelt 

Jasmin Singer, Rich Roll, & Mariann Sullivan; Photo Courtesy Light Sensations

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 132nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Bonnie Goodman from Mordamart, Sue Eakins from New Dawn MT Farm Sanctuary, Kit and Pete Jagoda of Rivers Wish Animal Sanctuary, and Tracy Martin of Rabbitron. 

In today's episode, we are – yep! – still on the road as part of our Great American Road Trip from NYC to Portland. Today, we'll pick up where we left off last week, bringing you our vegan tales from Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, and Washington. We'll give you the skinny on everything from the Sunshine Burgers we enjoyed in Riverton, Wyoming, to the animals we encountered in Yellowstone, and our feelings about the gawking tourists (which admittedly included us), to the stunning Deer Haven Ranch in Paradise Valley, Montana, to the kale salad we made for the Bozeman vegan potluck, to the hotspots for thrifting we happily encountered – and the low-down on Jasmin’s new skort! – to the cherries and berries we have been devouring thanks to roadside fruit stands, to the real-life amber waves of grain that have just recently been accompanying us on our Northwest travels.

As you’ll hear in the interview, during our chat with Sue Eakins (pictured left) of New Dawn MT Farm Sanctuary, many of the resident animals decided they, too, wanted to be part of the interview! Here’s Jasmin on the right, trying desperately to hold herself together to ask the questions. What a special visit!

Throughout our trip, we have had the pleasure of meeting so many incredible animal advocates, and today we'll talk to a small handful of them. Bonnie Goodman will tell us about the activism she does in her community of Livingston, Montana, and how her jewelry store and gallery has been transformed to a hub of changemaking; Sue Eakins of New Dawn Montana Farm Sanctuary just outside of Missoula will tell us about her haven for farmed animals (and some of those animals will join us for the interview, too); Kit and Pete Jagoda of Rivers Wish Animal Sanctuary in Spokane, Washington will discuss how taking in a few foster dogs ultimately paved the way for their veganism and their own sanctuary, where they have roughly 150 rescued individuals; and Tracy Martin of the rabbit sanctuary, Rabbitron, also in Spokane, will give us the low-down on these precious animals, as well as debunk a few myths about pigeons. Don't miss these quick glimpses of some of the most inspiring folks we've encountered on our trip.

For our review, we'll share some of the best treats from our current favorite vegan company, Wayfare Foods, which is based in Bozeman, Montana.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step.” -Lau Tsu

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 131st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Isa Chandra Moskowitz, Katie Olson, and Brian Endl. 

In today's episode, we are still on the road as part of our Great American Road Trip from NYC to Portland. We'll pick up where we left off last week, telling you all about our travels on the 2-lane Rt. 20, throughout the Indiana Dutch Country, Indiana Dunes, Chicago, rural Illinois, Kansas City, Iowa, Omaha, O’Neill, NE, Wyoming, and a whole lot more. We'll share with you our surprisingly delicious vegan tales from the road, and our unsurprisingly brutal glimpses into animal agribusiness.

Throughout our trip, we will bring you interviews with Brian Endl, whose entirely vegan brewery in Rockford, IL –Pig Minds Brewing – was a very welcome surprise; Katie Olson in Kansas City, the mastermind behind the entirely vegan and gluten-free Brody's Bakery; and a very special chat with vegan rockstar Isa Chandra Moskowitz, who relocated to Omaha a couple of years ago. During our visit to Omaha, Isa fed us directly from her garden, and shared the glorious news of her brand new upcoming vegan cookbook deal – her 8th publication! — which will surely take the world by storm, one delicious concoction at a time.

For our review, we'll talk all about the German-made documentary, Our Daily Bread, which goes behind the scenes of industrial food production, including, of course, into the hideous world of animal agriculture. This hour and a half film, with absolutely no narration except the sounds of conveyor belts and machines, is one that everyone who cares about animals should get their hands on. Don't miss our account of Our Daily Bread.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“One's destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.” -Henry Miller

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 130th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Honey LaBronx, with special guest Ari Solomon. 

In today's episode, our first coming to you from our great American road trip adventure, we'll tell you about our fond farewell to the Big Apple – temporarily, anyway – as we make our way out West. We'll include banter about our sayonara at the fancypants vegan eatery in the East Village, Kajitsu. We’ll also tell you all about our journey thus far as we make our way across the U.S. of A, complete with both the Grandmamobile, and our pit bull, Rose. Highlights so far have included our travel blender, our go-to meal at Chinese restaurants nationwide, and roadside fruit and vegetable stands.

Joining us today is Honey LaBronx, vegan drag queen extraordinaire, a.k.a. Ben Strothman. Honey will talk to us all about what it was like growing up in Wisconsin as the offspring of a well-known dairy personality, and how her history informs her current-day veganism and activism.  She will also tell us about her vegan cooking show, and her experience giving the show live at the gay pride parade back home in Wisconsin. Trust us, don't miss this interview.

For our review, we'll be joined by Our Hen House's Ari Solomon, who will give us his take on the film, Minds in the Water.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include: 

“Good girls go to heaven. Bad girls go everywhere.” -Mae West

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 129th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Karol Orzechowski, filmmaker behind Maximum Tolerated Dose.

In today's episode, we discuss bacon t-shirts for 3-year-old Brooklynites, the VegNews Twitter Chat Jasmin took part in focusing on gay rights and animal rights, Mariann's nephew's touching first word – which was, by the way, to his dog, the latest on Mike Tyson, and the class we taught for the Main Street Vegan Academy.

Joining us today is none other than the extremely talented Karol Orzechowski, mastermind behind the brand new film, Maximum Tolerated Dose. Karol will let us in on what it was like to undertake a creative project like this, which focuses on the hideous and hidden world of animal testing. With Maximum Tolerated Dose just about to launch into the AR scene with a bang, we at Our Hen House are thrilled to be the first to chat with Karol about it (post-production), and – excitingly – the very first to review it. You'll hear that review today, and so much more about this groundbreaking film.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“I believe I am not interested to know whether Vivisection produces results that are profitable to the human race or doesn’t. To know that the results are profitable to the race would not remove my hostility to it. The pains which it inflicts upon unconsenting animals is the basis of my enmity towards it ….” Mark Twain

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 128th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jon Camp, Vegan Outreach‘s Outreach Director. 

In today's episode, we'll report back to you from The Seed: A Vegan Experience, where we spent all last weekend immersed in the hottest vegan event in history. We'll tell you about our two talks – one that covered our 10 tips on going vegan, and the other, in which Jasmin interviewed vegan goddess Kathy Freston. We'll also give you the skinny on everything from the Raising Vegan Kids panel, to the panel on Vegan Blogging, to the lowdown on talks from such luminaries as James McWilliams, Jenny Brown, Dr. Michael Greger, and, of course, Dr. Joel Fuhrman. You'll hear about our favorite vendors, and you'll learn what food truck drove up from Miami to be part of the festivities.

Mariann and Jasmin at The Seed. Photo by Splice Photography. http://www.splicephotography.com/

We'll also discuss the unfortunate and disappointing update on  Eating Animals author Jonathan Safran Foer. We'll tell you about the delightful three and a half hour dinner we had with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, and we'll give you an update on how our plans are coming for our upcoming cross-country trip in the Grandma-mobile.

Joining us today is longtime activist Jon Camp, Vegan Outreach's Director of Outreach. Jon, who has recently handed out his eight hundred thousandth leaflet on veganism, has spent the last eight years traveling the country for Vegan Outreach’s Adopt a College program. He will tell us all about his experiences, and how we can use the warm summer weather to be the best grassroots activists possible, no matter our experience with animal advocacy.

For our review, we'll give you our take on the new documentary Lunch Hour, by James Costa, which exposes the ugly underbelly of the national school lunch program.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The freethinking of one age is the common sense of the next.”  Matthew Arnold

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Photo at top of blog: Courtesy of Splice Photography

Welcome to the 127th episode of Our Hen House, featuring a rundown of our time speaking at the Niagara VegFest. Guests include Keri Cronin, Laurie Morrison, Lauren Corman, Taylor Book, Dylan Powell, and Doug McNish.

In today's episode, we give you the full rundown of our inspiring trip to Niagara Falls to speak at the very first Niagara VegFest, held in St. Catherine's, Ontario. In addition to gabbing about the tourist scene we momentarily entrenched ourselves in, and the vegan goodies we ate along the way, we'll chat with organizers Keri Cronin and Laurie Morrison all about how this unbelievably successful venture came to happen. We'll talk to Lauren Corman and Taylor Book about the world-famous Critical Animal Studies program at St. Catherine's own Brock University. We'll catch up with The Vegan Police's Dylan Powell about the monthly events he organizes with Niagara Action for Animals, and he'll tell us about the speakers he regularly brings into the community's vegan potlucks, folks from various other social justice movements, and he will chat with us about why it's important to form coalitions. We’ll also have a delicious conversation with vegan Chef Doug McNish, author of Eat Raw, Eat Well, who also spoke at the VegFest, about how he inserts the animal rights messages into his delectable dishes.

For our review, we'll give you the skinny on our favorite product at the Niagara VegFest, Health Nut, purveyor of raw vegan cheese and nut butters that will blow your mind. We'll tell you how you, too, can get in on the goodness.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach the stars to change the world.” -Harriet Tubman

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Mariann and Jasmin speaking at the Niagara VegFest!

Welcome to the 126th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Scott Jurek, with guest Jennifer Hintenberger. 

In today's episode, we'll report back on Jasmin’s appearance on The Dr. Oz Show, where she dropped the V-Bomb. And we'll chat with kettlebell champion and passionate vegan, Jennifer Hintenberger, whom we met last weekend during our trip to Niagara Falls where we spoke at the 1st-ever Niagara VegFest (and join us next week for a full rundown of the amazing event).

“Eat and Run” by Scott Jurek

Our feature interview today is with world-renowned ultramarathon champion, Scott Jurek, whose new book, Eat and Run, details his unlikely journey to ultramarathon greatness, and explains how his veganism played a vital role in getting him there. Scott will chat with us about all of that, as well as how he came to embrace veganism, and what advice he has for vegans who might be interested in taking up running, and runners who might be interested in taking up veganism!

For our review, and in preparation for our big move to the West Coast, we will give you our top ten tips for vegan road trips.

On today's episode, you'll also have the opportunity to win one of five one-day admission passes to The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is coming to NYC next weekend, June 16 and 17.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Today’s problems cannot be solved if we still think the way we thought when we created them.” -Albert Einstein

Today's episode is being sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience. In addition to enjoying food samplings from the best of NYC's vegan restaurant scene, attendees will meet and mingle with fellow animal-conscious individuals, while exploring 25,000 square feet of veganism. Guests will enjoy a variety of vegan-inspired activities including cooking demonstrations, films (with director meet-and-greet opportunities), and presentations by various prominent vegan experts. We'll be speaking there on Saturday, June 16, at noon, and we can't wait. Hope to see you there!

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 125th episode of Out Hen House, featuring Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart of Vaute Couture. 

In today’s episode, Mariann and I will talk about one 9-year-old’s decision to boycott her class trip to the zoo, and we will read to you the letter she wrote to her teacher explaining why. We will discuss the many hidden exploitative messages about animals that kids confront during their education — things that are widely seen as “normal” yet are clearly only representative of one point of view (the wrong one). We will talk about Bill Gates and how his vision of the future does not include animal agribusiness. We will discuss the upcoming NYC vegan extravaganza, The Seed, and tell you the inspiring story behind a couple of the organizers. I will give you a rundown of an event where I spoke last week, The Veggie Pride Parade, and we will tell you about our next talk at the Niagara VegFest. We will also tell you all about a national TV appearance on The Dr. Oz Show by yours truly.

Joining us today is Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart, founder of the chic vegan coat and clothing company, Vaute Couture, and the new Brooklyn storefront that is creating waves in the fashion world — Vaute Here. We visited Leanne’s stunning store and talked to her all about everything from reactions she gets to the “No Fur” sign on the door, to what makes the store’s fun photo booth vegan, to trends in vegan fashion, to how to become a vegan entrepreneur, to so much more. Be prepared to fall in love with this long-time activist and all around do-gooder.

For our review, Mariann will give us the skinny on Susan Cain’s book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts, as it relates – of course – to animal activism.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Most people would rather die than think; in fact, they do so.” -Bertrand Russell  

Today's episode is being sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, coming to NYC on June 16 and 17. Explore a compassionate and scrumptious plant-based world at The Seed: A Vegan Experience, featuring two full days of the finest food from New York's famed vegan restaurant scene – the best in the world! Discover and delight in the latest cruelty-free products and services, world-renowned speakers, athletes and chefs, screenings of award-winning films, and eye-opening cooking demonstrations.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 124th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Tom Regan. 

In today's episode, we discuss the confusion caused by seeing veganism as a weight loss plan. We tell you about our experiences speaking at an LGBT church here in Manhattan, we chat about the horrific story of a sheep who might be killed by guillotine for a supposed “art project,” and we’ll let you in on a very inspiring talk we attended by Victoria Moran, on bringing veganism to the mainstream. We also ruminate on why non-vegans so easily get defensive, and what, if any, our role is in that phenomenon.

Joining us today is world-renowned philosopher, Tom Regan, who will talk to us about the thesis behind his groundbreaking book, The Case for Animal Rights; the idea that it's so-called impossible to be vegan in certain climates and what that means for the rest of us; the connections between his early days in the anti-war movement and how that relates to his work in animal rights; and the important role that the arts plays in animal advocacy.

For our review, we'll tell you all about one of our favorite things of all time: chocolate! We'll give you some inside tips on our favorite morning hot beverage, and we'll share with you our favorite cocoa powders – all slavery-free, of course.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include: 

“When I dare to be powerful – to use my strength in the service of my vision – then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.” -Audre Lorde 

Today's episode is being sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, coming to NYC on June 16 and 17. Explore a compassionate and scrumptious plant-based world at The Seed: A Vegan Experience, featuring two full days of the finest food from New York's famed vegan restaurant scene – the best in the world! Discover and delight in the latest cruelty-free products and services, world-renowned speakers, athletes and chefs, screenings of award-winning films, and eye-opening cooking demonstrations.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 123rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring professional basketball player (and vegan!), Milani Malik.

In today's episode, we will tell you all about our experiences speaking at The Brooklyn Food Festival, including conversations that arose from Mariann's panel, “The Ethics of Eating Meat,” and our – shall we say -- interesting… interactions with the “Milk Not Jails” table in the vendors’ area.

Joining us today is Milani Malik, a professor basketball player who has been vegan since birth. Milani will tell us all about her teammates’ reactions to her plant-based diet, her favorite foods that keep her strong, what it was like to be raised as a vegan – one of six kids, by the way, all raised vegan! – and what it's like to be the only woman on a professional men's basketball team.

For our review, Our Hen House's reviewer Ari Solomon will give you the skinny on his favorite homemade vegan cheeses! They're easier to make, and more delicious to eat, than you might think. (READ ON FOR HIS FAVORITE HOMEMADE RECIPE!)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“We should remember in our dealings with animals that they are a sacred trust to us…[They] cannot speak for themselves.” -Harriet Beecher Stowe 

Today's episode is being sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, coming to NYC on June 16 and 17. Explore a compassionate and scrumptious plant-based world at The Seed: A Vegan Experience, featuring two full days of the finest food from New York's famed vegan restaurant scene – the best in the world! Discover and delight in the latest cruelty-free products and services, world-renowned speakers, athletes and chefs, screenings of award-winning films, and eye-opening cooking demonstrations. Experience music and art that will make your heart sing, and enjoy stellar giveaways that will make your friends jealous.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Bonus! 

On today’s episode, Ari Solomon will tell you about his favorite homemade vegan cheese recipes! These include raw rich cheddar cheese, and Ari’s very own Vegan Parmesan, a recipe he agreed to share with us!

Ari Solomon’s Vegan Parmesan
1 cup of walnuts
1 cup of nutritional yeast
1 tsp of sea salt
Put ingredients into food processor and blend until it’s the consistency of parmesan cheese sprinkles. For a tangy twist, add 1/4 tsp of lemon rind to the recipe!

Photo at top of blog: Ari Solomon’s homemade vegan muenster cheese! Photo by Ari Solomon. YUM!

Welcome to the 122nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Chloe Jo Davis of Girlie Girl Army. 

In today's episode, we discuss an annoying article regarding the sentience of peas. We talk about tactics for getting non-vegan family and friends to try the non-hummus dishes at vegan restaurants. We give you the skinny on Mariann's recent talk on animal law, and we ruminate on whether or not to get a hybrid.

Joining us today is Chloe Jo Davis, founder of GirlieGirlArmy.com, and vegan fashionista extraordinaire. Chloe will talk to us about everything from vegan pregnancy and parenting, to current trends within vegan fashion, to tips on getting the animal message seen and heard in mainstream media.

For our review, we'll give you our thoughts on the newest vegan cheese out there — vegan cheese shreds this time — thanks to Galaxy Nutritional Foods. Don't  miss this review of – okay, we'll ruin it – the best vegan cheese Jasmin has ever had.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include: 

“To be nobody but yourself in a world which is doing its best, night and day, to make you everybody else, means to fight the hardest battle which any human being can fight.” -e.e. cummings

Today's episode is being sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience, coming to NYC on June 16 and 17. Explore a compassionate and scrumptious plant-based world at The Seed: A Vegan Experience, featuring two full days of the finest food from New York's famed vegan restaurant scene – the best in the world! Discover and delight in the latest cruelty-free products and services, world-renowned speakers, athletes and chefs, screenings of award-winning films, and eye-opening cooking demonstrations. Experience music and art that will make your heart sing, and enjoy stellar giveaways that will make your friends jealous.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 121st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Main Street Vegan author, Victoria Moran, with special guests Lori Gruen and Sally Tamarkin. 

In today’s episode, Mariann and I discuss the sadly ironic situation of Petunia the Pig. We also talk about how to respond to “humane meat” myths when you find yourself confronted with them. We will then, as always, give you the skinny on some vegan events we attended here in NYC — including the gallery opening for artist Sue Coe, an event which was held in conjunction with her new earth-shattering book, Cruel. And we will tell you all about the launch party we attended for Victoria Moran’s new masterpiece, Main Street Vegan.

Then, we’ll be talking to author Victoria Moran herself — all about the way the vegan scene has shifted since 28 years ago, when she herself took the leap. We’ll discuss the myth that being vegan is expensive, and the unfortunate perception held by some meat-eaters that vegans will eventually “go back.”

Following that interview, as a special treat, we will give you a glimpse into next week’s much-anticipated Brooklyn Food Conference. Specifically, we’ll be examining a panel that Jasmin will be moderating entitled, “Women, Feminism, and the Use of Animals for Food.” Joining us for that discussion is philosopher Lori Gruen, who will let us in on some of the thoughts that she will further explore at the panel. Don’t miss this.

For our review, we eagerly welcome back Our Hen House’s Sally Tamarkin, who will give us her take on the book, Main Street Vegan. Somehow this review results in Sally discussing both polyamory and peanut butter — though not together. (This time, anyway.)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

Today's episode is being sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience. Explore a plant-based world at The Seed: A Vegan Experience, New York City's premier vegan event, scheduled for June 16 & 17. Featuring the best in vegan food, exciting vegan products and services, world-renowned speakers and presenters, film screenings and more.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 120th episode of Our Hen House, featuring vegan chef Ayinde Howell. 

In today's episode, we talk all about The Seed: A Vegan Experience, which is set to come to Soho on June 16 and 17. We'll tell you why you don't want to miss this event, and we'll talk about our involvement in this groundbreaking and delicious happening.

We'll also discuss the results of the New York Times essay contest asking people to share their thoughts on the false, flawed assumption that “it's ethical to eat meat.” And we'll share the results of our essay contest where we asked you why it is unethical to eat meat. The responses overwhelmed us.

We'll talk about the term “meat-free,” and we'll tell you about an old video, circa 1976, from The Vegan Society. We'll share with you our experiences attending the NYU “Panel on Global Equity and Animal Agriculture,” as well as a clothing swap that benefited Humane Education Advocates Reaching Teachers. We'll also talk about the recent controversy all over the news about vegan parenting, and we'll tell you about Ginny Messina's recent eye-opening blog entry about umami being a “secret ingredient of vegan activism.”

Joining us today is vegan chef Ayinde Howell, who will talk all about his pop-up restaurant, Wildflower, which is popping up in San Francisco on May 4 and 5. Ayinde will discuss with us everything from being born and raised as a vegan, to why the pop-up model is so effective for budding vegan entrepreneurs.

For our review, Ari Solomon will be joining us and will tell us about the product line Herban Cowboy, which is an all-vegan line of goodies including soaps, shaving creams, deodorants, and other grooming must-haves.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“You are entitled to your own opinion, but not your own facts.” -Daniel Patrick Moynihan

Today's episode is being sponsored by The Seed: A Vegan Experience. Explore a plant-based world at The Seed: A Vegan Experience, New York City's premier vegan event, scheduled for June 16 & 17. Featuring the best in vegan products and services, world-renowned speakers and presenters, film screenings, demos, and more.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 119th episode of Our Hen House, featuring the undercover investigator, “Pete,” with special appearances by Kaitlyn Miklinevich (of Tie Dye Files) and Drew Wilson (of VegWorcester). 

In today's episode, we discuss the recent story of the cow dubbed “Moo-dini” who escaped from slaughter, and the important role that escapees play in our movement. We will also give you our thoughts on the unfortunate quote-unquote “animal welfare” video produced by a huge restaurant chain. We'll make you jealous with our banter about the new Café Blossom, this one on Carmine Street here in New York City, where we ate this past week, and we'll give you the low-down on Jasmin’s performance in Mortified. We'll also share with you our amazing experiences last weekend, where we spoke at the Worcester VegFest, and we'll chat with organizers Drew Wilson and Kaitlyn Miklinevich about what it takes to put such an event together.

Joining us for our feature interview is “Pete,” the undercover investigator responsible for the undercover work that led to the film “Death on a Factory Farm,” as well as the HBO documentary, “Dealing Dogs,” not to mention countless other investigations into kennels selling animals to research, as well as puppy mills, factory farms, and slaughterhouses. Pete will give us a glimpse into this mind-blowing work, and he'll tell us what it takes to become an investigator. You absolutely won't want to miss this interview with a true unsung hero.

For our review, Our Hen House's reviewer, Ari Solomon, will give you his thoughts on the book, One Good Dog, by Susan Wilson. Listen to Ari's insightful take, and then order yourself this engrossing novel.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” -St. Francis of Assisi 

Welcome to the 118th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Timothy Pachirat, author of Every Twelve Seconds: Industrialized Slaughter and the Politics of Sight.

In today's episode, we will make a very big announcement about where we'll be spending 6 months of this year, and why. Here’s a clue: It has to do with animal law, and, for a while anyway, we will no longer be on the east coast. We'll also give you the run-down on Mariann's birthday celebration, including vegan soft serve, Ghost the Musical, and our middle of the night visit to the Apple store. We'll also report back on our vegan Passover, as well as our Easter, and we'll tell you about some exciting upcoming speaking engagements.

Joining us today is Timothy Pachirat, the brilliant author behind Every Twelve Seconds: Industrialized Slaughter and the Politics of Sight. Timothy, who is joining us in person here in Our Hen House, will tell us about what it was like working inside a slaughterhouse where 2,500 cows were killed per day – one every twelve seconds. He'll discuss his thoughts on animal agriculture being used as a metaphor for other forms of violence, he'll talk about ritual slaughter, and he'll discuss the question of who is more responsible: those who work in the slaughterhouse, or those who eat the meat? You won't want to miss this eye-opening, riveting interview. And you also won't want to miss the opportunity to get your own signed copy of Timothy Pachirat's Every Twelve Seconds. We’ll tell you how.

For our review, we'll tell you about our favorite frozen fruits and vegetables, and our best go-to ways to use them.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Today’s problems cannot be solved if we still think the way we thought when we created them.” -Albert Einstein 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 117th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Anat Pick.

In today’s episode, we talk about our upcoming vegan Passover seder and non-vegan Easter, Mariann tells us about her thoughts on the new book that she just finished entitled Every Twelve Seconds, we discuss a segment on The Daily Show all about a new book that focuses on military dogs, and we give you the skinny on Mariann’s birthday fundraiser (we hope you donate!).

Joining us today is Anat Pick, author of Creaturely Poetics: Animality and Vulnerability in Literature and Film (which we recently reviewed). Anat, who is visiting New York City from her home in London, where she teaches at the University of East London, will discuss with us the role that animals play in film, and whether or not the use of animals in film is inherently unethical. She’ll also talk to us about her thoughts on how literature and film relate to animals and their role in our lives. We’ll chat about where academia and activism intersect, and where she thinks they should intersect. And we’ll talk with her about her feelings on the science behind animal minds, as well as the significance of a vegan diet — from a personal as well as political perspective.
For our review, we’ll tell you about Ruby Roth’s new children’s book, Vegan is Love, which teaches the benefits of veganism for people, animals and the planet.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Walk the street with us. Get off the sidewalk.” -Dolores Huerta 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 116th episode of Our Hen House, featuring chef Juan Pablo Chavez.

In today's episode, we discuss the new Vegan Bodega, Blossom Bakery, annoying Facebook comments, cursing (and in what dialect it might be more appropriate) and an unfortunate evening of theatre.

Joining us today is the charming and talented Juan Pablo Chavez, the chef at the Whole Foods Wellness Club. Juan Pablo will tell us about the delicious vegan concoctions that Whole Foods' new Wellness Club is cooking up, and he'll talk about how the program – which advocates only plant-based options – is empowering shoppers and everyday people to get their health back.

For our review, we'll tell you about the exhibit we attended here in New York City, entitled “The Wild Horses of Sable Island.”

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“It’s exhilarating to be alive in a time of awakening consciousness; it can also be confusing, disorienting, and painful.” -Adrienne Rich

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below! beneath the recipe!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

BONUS! 

Thanks to today’s guest, Juan Pablo Chavez, and to The Whole Foods Wellness Club for providing this recipe!

Whole Foods Market Wellness Club Mexican Pipian Stew

Serves 6 to 8

This traditional green pipian mole from Mexico is full of bright, fresh herbal flavors and is thickened with toasted pumpkin seeds. “Mole” comes from the Nahuatl word “molli” which means “concoction” (and is recognizable in the well-known “guacamole”). Serve with cooked brown rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce, or over steamed potatoes.

Ingredients

2 large yellow onions, diced

1 clove garlic, minced

2 jalapenos, seeded and diced

6 cups water

1 dried bay leaf

2 lbs green tomatillos, husks removed and rinsed

1 bunch green onions, white and green parts only, thinly sliced

1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into ½ inch pieces

1 cup sugar snap peas

1 cup fresh or thawed frozen peas

1 cup cooked garbanzo beans

2 zucchini squash, diced

2 yellow squash, diced

2 bunches of cilantro

1 bunch flat leaf parsley, leaves only

1 cup loosely packed mint, leaves only

½ bunch chives (optional)

½ cup pumpkin seeds, toasted

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

To make the Pipian:

Combine water, 2 sprigs of the cilantro, 2 tablespoons of the parsley leaves, bay leaf, garlic, 1 onion half, and bring to a boil. Add tomatillos. Simmer until bright green color becomes opaque, 7 to 10 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer tomatillos to a food processor. (Strain cooking liquid and reserve.) Cut remaining yellow onion half into large pieces and add to food processor along with jalapeños, white parts of green onions and 2 cups of the reserved cooking liquid. Puree until smooth and season with some freshly ground pepper.

Transfer 4 cups of the remaining cooking liquid to a large pot.  Stir in the tomatillo mixture and bring to a simmer over medium high heat. Add green beans, sugar snap peas, peas, squash and zucchini. Simmer 3 to 5 minutes, until vegetables are crisp-tender.

Just before serving, finish the pipian by placing the remaining cilantro, remaining parsley, mint and chives into a blender with 1 cup of the warm stew liquid and the toasted pumpkin seeds. Puree and season with freshly ground pepper. Add herb mixture back into the rest of the veggie mix, stir  and serve immediately over brown rice or quinoa.  Garnish with remaining green onions.

Welcome to the 115th episode of Our Hen House, featuring human rights and animal rights attorney, Bina Ahmad. 

In today's episode, we discuss the New York Times' contest asking people to write and explain why they think it's ethical to eat meat, and the reasons behind our counter-contest. We also talk about dreams, non-vegan tweeters, and our thoughts on being asked to speak to the subject of growing up… oppressed. Mariann will also make us all jealous as she talks about her experience at the brand new Candle Café West, here in New York City.

Joining us today is Bina Ahmad, a human rights and animal rights attorney. Bina will talk to us about activists' rights, the Animal Enterprise Terrorism Act, ag-gag laws, and her favorite karaoke songs. Don't miss this eye-opening interview.

For our review, we'll tell you about Cages of Shame, the new documentary which tells the story of the dramatic rescue of 10 bears from a bile farm in Shandong Province, China. And if you're in NYC, on April 14 you won't want to miss the US premiere of this film which will benefit Animals Asia's work to help endangered moon bears in Asia.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Never interrupt someone doing what you said couldn’t be done.” -Amelia Earhart 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 114th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Marc Bekoff and Gena Hamshaw. 

In today's episode, we will tell you about the animal-themed art exhibit we saw at the Morgan Library entitled, “In the Company of Animals,” including why our pigeon-skirt wearing curator disappointed us with her assertions that it is, in the end, about us humans. We'll talk about the Citizen Radio interview we were on this week, and we'll discuss the pluses and minuses of blogging about companion animal issues. Joining us for part of our ramblings is nutritionist Gena Hamshaw from Choosing Raw, who will help us get to the bottom of the recent green smoothie controversy.

Joining us today is scientist Marc Bekoff, who will give us his thoughts on everything from animal rights activists being accused of being anti-science, to facts and insights about animals that astonish people, to his work on compassionate conservation, to his work in prisons. You won't want to miss this eye-opening interview with a true pioneer in animal studies.

For our review, we'll go back to our kitchen and give you the skinny on two more of our kitchen appliances. Today, we talk about our beloved soymilk maker and our darling rice cooker.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“We need, in a special way, to work twice as hard to help people understand that the animals are fellow creatures, that we must protect them and love them as we love ourselves.” -Cesar Chavez

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 113th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Doron Petersan and Michelle Schwegmann. 

In today's episode, we ponder about the mindset of vegetarians: Why stop half-way? We share some updates about the latest ag-gag laws and we give you our feelings about this movement toward repressing activists' voices and their First Amendment rights. Plus, we tell you about the latest Rethinking Animals lecture we attended here in New York.

Telling us all about the NYC VegFest is Michelle Schwegmann, co-owner of the center of Portland, OR's vegan mecca, Herbivore Clothing. Also joining us today is Doron Petersan, founder of Sticky Fingers Vegan Bakery, and author of the new Sticky Fingers cookbook. Listen closely for your chance to win your very own copy of this cookbook!

For our review, we'll discuss a performance art piece we attended entitled The Homo Bonobo Project.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage” -Anais Nin

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 112th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Patty Shenker, Nathan Runkle, and Kim Sturla. 

In today's episode, we come to you from Los Angeles, where Mariann was a judge in the Lewis & Clark Animal Law Moot Court, held this year at UCLA. When we weren't in that neck of Tinseltown, we were eating our way through this delicious city, and we'll tell you all about it. We also got to catch up with some incredible movers and shakers who are heavily involved in all things animal rights.

One such person was longtime activist Patty Shenker, who will be our feature interview today. Patty will talk to us about her work with Animal Rescue Corps, and the importance of rescue work. She'll let us in on such items as: the resource she co-created, FreeAnimalVideo.org, her trip to visit Birute Galdikas, the role of sanctuary in the animal protection movement, and a new play she'll be performing in that is a take-off of the Vagina Monologues.

We have a couple of special guests joining us for our news section, too. First, we'll be joined by Kim Sturla, founder of Animal Place, who will tell us about the over four thousand hens they rescued and took in at the biggest farmed animal rescue in California's history. We'll also talk to Mercy for Animals' Executive Director, Nathan Runkle, who will shed light on the recent turn of events regarding Iowa's ag-gag law.

For our review, Our Hen House's Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, will give us his take on the new movie, Big Miracle. That will launch us into a discussion about animal actors.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“It is now life and not art that requires the willing suspension of disbelief.” -Lionel Trilling

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 111th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dawn Moncrieffe from A Well-Fed World. 

In today's episode, we'll talk all about the recent episode of “What Would You Do?” that asked the question, “Is It Un-American to Avoid Meat?” Then, we'll ruminate on the word “vegan” and what we think it means. Some of you might find you disagree with us. So be it…

Joining us today is Dawn Moncrieffe, the Founder and Executive Director of A Well-Fed World. Dawn will talk to us all about how and why we can feed so many more people in the world. She'll also give us some insight into commonly asked questions regarding meat-eating and land use. Dawn will give us a glimpse into some groundbreaking campaigns that A Well-Fed World is working on, including one that revolves around peanut butter and jelly.

For our review, we'll talk about the old movie with Jane Fonda and Robert Redford, The Electric Horseman.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Non-violence leads to the highest ethics, which is the goal of all evolution. Until we stop harming ALL other living beings, we are still savages.” -Thomas Edison

Welcome to the 110th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kezia Jauron and Gary Smith from Evolotus PR. 

In today's episode, we tell you about the talk we went to on Rethinking Animals, which discussed, among other things, the consciousness of animals. We'll whine about a horrible string of events we attended, and we'll share with you our excitement about yet another new Our Hen House advisory board member – whom we each have a huge crush on.

Joining us today are Kezia Jauron and Gary Smith, the masterminds behind Evolotus PR, a public relations agency working for a better world. Kezia and Gary will give us their thoughts on the power of using the media to create social change, and they'll give us a glimpse into some of the groundbreaking campaigns they've worked on for the betterment of animal rights.

For our review, we'll give you a look into our kitchen – specifically, to the section of it known as “Kitchen Appliance Wonderland.” We'll give you the skinny on two of our appliances that we simply cannot live without.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Those who have the privilege to know, have the duty to act.” -Albert Einstein 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 109th episode of Our Hen House, featuring lauren Ornelas from Food Empowerment Project. 

In today's episode, we discuss clothing swaps, new juice joints, our deep love for pigeons, and how stupid we think Valentine's Day is. (Well, mostly.)

Joining us today is lauren Ornelas, the founder and director of Food Empowerment Project. Just in time for Valentine's Day, lauren is going to talk to us about chocolate, including the ethical issues that frequently arise regarding its production. You will definitely not want to miss this eye-opening glimpse into the oftentimes hideously cruel world of cocoa production. You'll also learn about how to spot the truly ethically-sourced varieties (don’t miss F.E.P.’s Chocolate List), and why there is a correlation between boycotting animal products, and boycotting other unfairly-produced food products.

Since it's Valentine's Day, we'll also be sharing some of your own stories of love – love of animals, that is. Many of you sent us your stories of animals who worked their way into your hearts, and, today, we're going to highlight 5 of your touching tales.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The love of all living creatures is the most noble attribute of man.” -Charles Darwin

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 108th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Zia Terhune from VegFund. 

In today's episode, we give you the skinny on everything from the screening of Vegucated at the Artivist Film Festival, after which Mariann spoke on the panel; to the annoying (and expensive) runaround that many vets give people; to a discussion on how much – if at all – we should broaden the scope of what we discuss here on our podcast.

Joining us today is Zia Terhune, the co-founder of VegFund, a unique organization that empowers vegan activists worldwide by funding and supporting outreach activities that inspire people to go vegan. Zia will talk with us about how the idea of VegFund stemmed from a potluck, and she'll tell us how we can all get in on the fun — and the changemaking — of this incredible organization.

For our review, we'll talk about the short film, Together: Dancing With Spinner Dolphins, by Chisa Hidaka. This film is a great segue into discussing the multitude of ways that animal advocates can use film to inspire change.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include: 

“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence. It is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” -Audra Lorde 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

 Welcome to the 107th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Matt Rossell from Animal Defenders International. 

In today's episode, we will tell you about the animal rights character we learned about in The Canterbury Tales, and why we learned about him in rap form. Jasmin will tell you about the most hideous trip to a restaurant she’s ever taken (she trusts that you'll also be equally horrified on her behalf). We'll ruminate on whether vegans are too nice, we'll tell you about our expanding flock of chicks, we'll profess our love for dahl and for oranges, and we'll update you on the latest theatre happenings in our world.

Joining us today is Matt Rossell, the Campaigns Director for Animal Defenders International, who will give us the skinny on the international efforts of this animal protection organization, including the latest news on their Break the Chain campaign, and how you can help.

For our review, we'll talk about the Nova episode, “How Smart Are Animals?”, which is available for your viewing, for free, both on PBS.org, and on Netflix's instant queue.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“All the darkness in the world cannot extinguish the light of a single candle.” -St. Francis of Assisi

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 106th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Erik Marcus from Vegan.com. 

In today's episode, we gripe about the recent NYC subway ads that center around reducing your portion size as a way to reduce disease. We also give you our thoughts on everything from the film, Dive: Living Off America's Waste, to the sushi rolls at Pure Food and Wine, to the Wellness Club brunch we got to try at a nearby Whole Foods, to Paula Deen.

Joining us today is longtime activist and author, Erik Marcus, the mastermind behind Vegan.com. Erik will talk to us about everything from the strengths and limitations of the health and environmental arguments for veganism, to how to make a truly persuasive ethical argument for living cruelty-free, to how to effectively use social networking tools for advocacy, and a heckuva lot more. You won't want to miss this interview with the voice behind so many articles and books that speak up for animals (including The Ultimate Vegan Guide, which is available for only 99 cents in digital form).

Tatiana Pavela as Dian Fossey in “Leakey’s Ladies.” Photo by Shell Sheddy.

For our review, we'll share with you our thoughts on the play, Leakey's Ladies, which explores the lives and work of Dian Fossey, Jane Goodall, and Birute Galdikas. This play is the most recent merging of theatre and advocacy to come across our radar, and we're eager to share with you our experiences of watching these stories of animal ambassadors come to life.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap, but by the seeds that you plant.” –Robert Louis Stevenson

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 105th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Lori Gruen. 

In today's episode, we discuss our foray into Brooklyn to visit the new all-vegan establishment that's garnering tons of buzz, Dunwell Doughnuts. We'll also share our thoughts on the hideous piece that we feel is, to say the least, off the mark, “A Dog's Right to Life?” from the New York Times column, “The Ethicist,” as well as the on-the-mark piece from The Thinking Vegan (written by Kezia Jauron). And we'll give you the skinny on the new Whole Foods Wellness Club, and the talk that we saw Dr. Fuhrman give this past week.

Today's episode is full of strong, inspiring, changemaking women! First, Chicago-based jewelry designer, and animal rights activist, Michelle Rubin, will spill the beans about a prank she instigated this week. Let's just say that Jasmin put her BFA in Acting to the test. Michelle is the talented jeweler behind the sterling silver and hematite necklaces that say “vegan” that we offer on our site in exchange for a donation. Listen closely for your chance to get in on a one-week special that Michelle is offering just to our devoted podcast listeners.

Our feature interview today is with activist and scholar, Lori Gruen, who is – among other things – the author of Ethics and Animals: An Introduction. Lori will discuss with us what's involved in teaching animal ethics, the crossovers between animal studies and animal activism,  the role that chimpanzees have played with shaping her ethical thought, and her feelings regarding the prevalence of women in the animal protection movement.

For one week, donate $75 to OHH and in addition to getting a silver and hematite necklace stamped “VEGAN,” you will also receive this heart pendant, and an additional stone!

For our review, Our Hen House's protein-prosperous intern, Sally Tamarkin, will give us her thoughts about a subject she feels she was put on this planet to discuss: peanut butter. Sally put several peanut butter brands to the test and has determined the very best one – that is, of the unsalted, crunchy variety.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“When you cease to make a contribution you begin to die.” -Eleanor Roosevelt 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you're a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Welcome to the 104th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Bruce Friedrich from Farm Sanctuary. 

In today's episode, we will discuss what makes some people act in unethical ways. This topic was inspired by a couple we passed “oo-ing” and “ahh-ing” in front of a puppy store, discussing which one to buy. It made us think of this saying by RD Laing:

In order to change something: The range of what we see and do is limited by what we fail to notice. And because we fail to notice that we fail to notice, there is little we can do to change until we notice how failing to notice shapes our thoughts and deeds.

We'll talk about that, and ruminate on how, as animal advocates, we can help people notice that they're… failing to notice.

We'll also banter about Portlandia, TOFU Magazine (check out the interview with Jasmin in Issue Six), and the new, raw, NYC restaurant that found its way into our hearts, Gingersnap’s Organic.

Joining us today is longtime activist, Bruce Friedrich, who will tell us about the plans he has with his new role at Farm Sanctuary – including the “Someone, Not Something” campaign, and how he intends to involve local community in ending animal cruelty and adopting a vegan diet.

For our review, Our Hen House's brilliant intern, Sally Tamarkin, will join us for a fun look at the new board game, Fur & Feathers, which is dedicated to educating children and adults on the importance of remembering how our everyday choices affect the lives of animals. Not to ruin anything, but let's just say that Jasmin kicked some ass. (And through the end of February, enter code “OURHENHOUSE” when you purchase your very own Fur & Feathers board game, and Our Hen House will get $5 of the purchase!)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“It’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it.” -Lena Horne

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. If you’re a weekly listener, you might consider making a recurring monthly donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don't forget — we're reader and listener supported. Plus, we offer some fantastic thank you gifts for your donations. Thank you for helping us to create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new, hour-long podcast each week!

Photo at top of blog: Courtesy of Farm Sanctuary. Photo by Connie Pugh. 

Welcome to the 103rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Gena Hamshaw from Choosing Raw.

In today's episode, we are putting aside our stomach virus and sharing with you – not our virus – but our feelings about the recent 42 million dollar donation to Heifer International, our experiences being perceived as the difficult vegans at our Christmas dinner, and our hopes for the New Year, vis a vis changes to our attitudes.

Joining us on this extra special episode – the last of 2011 – is nutritionist and writer, Gena Hamshaw. Gena, who is the mastermind behind the uber-popular blog, Choosing Raw, will let us in on how much raw food vegans should ideally have in their diets. She'll also talk about how she incorporates animal activism into her mostly food-centric platform. And she'll discuss disordered eating, and how veganism can act as a healing mechanism for people who have struggled with these issues. Gena will discuss loads more, too. You won't want to miss this year-end interview with an incredibly articulate and insightful woman who is on the road to taking the medical profession by storm, the vegan way.

Then, Our Hen House's Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon (of “Shit Vegans Say” fame), will be joining us for a very special musical tribute to some of the vegan and AR highlights of 2011. We flex our vocal chords too. Don't miss this.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Activism is the rent I pay for living on this planet.” -Alice Walker

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can listen and subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Don’t forget — we’re reader and listener supported. And through the end of the year, if you set up a recurring donation of at least $10 a month, you will receive a free, ethically-sourced Our Hen House tote bag. And also through the end of the year, if you donate a minimum of $250, we’ll send you a signed copy of a “Riot of the Hens” poster by legendary artist Sue Coe!

Thanks for helping to build Our Hen House!

Photo at top of blog from Choosing Raw.

Welcome to the 102nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jamie Kilstein from Citizen Radio. 

In today's episode, as Christmas approaches, we are doing our best to be nice and not naughty… but we're failing miserably. We will share with you our retort to one website's question regarding whether feminists should be vegan. And we'll vent a little regarding the latest piece in The Atlantic that promoted eating animals (the act of it, not the book). On the nicer side, though, we'll also share with you the incredibly exciting news regarding our latest video on Sue Coe.

Joining us today is powerhouse Jamie Kilstein, half of the brains behind the wildly popular podcast, Citizen Radio. Jamie's extended interview will include his ramblings about how he began Citizen Radio, his thoughts about reaching the lefty crowd with the vegan message, his ruminations on his experiences performing vegan jokes in his stand-up comedy act, and tons more.

For our review, Our Hen House's Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, will give us his thoughts on the forthcoming Stephen Spielberg film, War Horse. Ari will discuss with us not only the film itself, but some of the issues regarding the use of animals in film. (Also see: “Animal Stories in Film: Inherently Exploitative? Potentially Eye-Opening?“)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

 “There are a thousand hacking at the branches of evil to one who is striking at the root.” -Henry David Thoreau 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! And through the end of the year, if you set up a recurring donation of at least $10 a month, you will receive a free, ethically-sourced Our Hen House tote bag. Thanks!

Welcome to the 101st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Liuba Grechen from Sweet Cheeks Vegan Bakery, with a special appearance by vegan artist extraordinaire, Sue Coe. 

In today's episode, we discuss our recent foray into de-tchotchke-ifying our lives, and our need for nesting. We also talk about health – including some ruminations on the differences between a junk food vegan diet and a whole foods based vegan diet. We'll tell you about the home study we've been doing throughout our current juice fast.

Joining us today is Liuba Grechen, owner and founder of  Sweet Cheeks Vegan Bakery – a new cruelty-free company in NYC. Liuba will talk about for-profit activism, how she feels the tide is turning for vegan businesses, and what you need to know if you want to start your own.

Jasmin eating a cupcake from Sweet Cheeks Vegan Bakery. Photo by Anthony Two Moons.

Then, as a special addition to today's episode, we will play for you the story of how vegan artist extraordinaire, Sue Coe, met her first dog.

For our review, our Hollywood Correspondent Ari Solomon will be joining us to give us his take on the book, An Eagle Named Freedom.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do.”  -Bruce Lee

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! And through the end of the year, if you set up a recurring donation of at least $10 a month, you will receive a free, ethically-sourced Our Hen House tote bag. Thanks!

Photo at top of blog: Sweet Cheeks Vegan Bakery sponsored the Our Hen House Hen Party last month! Those were their delicious concoctions. Photo by Anthony Two Moons. 

Welcome to the 100th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Peter Singer and Isa Chandra Moskowitz.

In today's monumental episode, we will talk about the Food Activism for the Holidays workshop we gave last week, and we'll share with you our thoughts on how to get a good holiday vegan meal at a non-vegan restaurant. We'll also sing a few original songs – including “The 12 Days of Carnivorous Christmas.”

Happy 100th Episode, Us.

Joining us for episode 100 are two of our favorite past guests: Famed ethicist and author of the groundbreaking book Animal Liberation, Peter Singer, and bestselling vegan cookbook author, Isa Chandra Moskowitz. Peter will talk with us about his views on the current state of the animal liberation movement, and Isa will talk about what she dubs “baketivism.”

Then, as part of our special 100th episode, we'll be answering your questions! You asked us about everything from how to handle kids who want to go to zoos, to how to find inspiration for juice-fasting, to what our plans are for 2012 with Our Hen House. Today, we'll answer those – and more. At the end of the episode, we'll announce the very lucky winner of the $100 gift certificate to MooShoes.

Speaking of which, today's episode is being sponsored by MooShoes. MooShoes proudly offers the largest variety of vegan shoes and accessories in the world. They have men’s and women’s shoes for all occasions as well as bags, purses, belts, jackets, and other fun stuff – all cruelty-free. Visit MooShoes 7 days a week at their physical location in New York City’s Lower East Side, or shop with them online at www.mooshoes.com.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“This is what you shall do: Love the earth and sun and the animals.” -Walt Whitman 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  IN HONOR OF OUR 100TH PODCAST EPISODE, PLEASE HELP US GET TO 100 REVIEWS! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! And through the end of the year, if you set up a recurring donation of at least $10 a month, you will receive a free, ethically-sourced Our Hen House tote bag. Thanks!

Welcome to the 99th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Miriam Jones of VINE Sanctuary and Debra Kowalski of For the Animals Sanctuary. 

In today's episode, we will discuss the label “activist.” We'll talk about a couple of Montana residents who have two very different takes on the word. We'll also tell you about our recent trip to New Jersey. And we'll discuss people's unfortunate unfamiliarity with their constitutional rights vis a vis leafleting and protesting. We'll also give you the skinny on our upcoming 100th episode, and we'll tell you how you can win a $100 gift certificate to MooShoes!

Photo from VINE Sanctuary (www.vine.bravebirds.org)

Today's episode is Part 2 (of 2) of our sanctuary spotlight. Last week, we highlighted two smaller farmed animal sanctuaries, and this week we are doing that one more time, focusing on two more sanctuaries.

Joining us today are Miriam Jones from VINE Sanctuary in Vermont, who will give us an update on some of their new residents, and Debra Kowalski from For the Animals Sanctuary in New Jersey, who will tell us about how her work as a nurse intersects with her work rescuing and rehabilitating farmed animals.

For our review, we'll give you our take on the very best vegan nogs and other non-dairy holiday drinks!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Violence can only be concealed by a lie, and the lie can only be maintained by violence.” -Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog, and photo of duck in blog, both courtesy of VINE Sanctuary. 

Welcome to the 98th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Cheri Ezell-Vandersluis from Maple Farm Sanctuary and Bill Crain from Safe Haven Farm Sanctuary. 

In today's episode, we will tell you about everything from our excursion to Queens – including the delicious vegan Indian food we had – to Mariann's appearance on an LGBT-themed radio show, where she discussed the horrors of the horse-drawn carriage industry. We'll also talk about 2 upcoming workshops we are giving here in New York City, and we'll give you the nuts and bolts version of the most recent article we wrote for One Green Planet, entitled, “Cigarettes are Bad for You (and Other Life Lessons for a Healthy and Compassionate Tomorrow).”

Photo from Maple Farm Sanctuary (http://www.maplefarmsanctuary.org/)

Today's episode is part one of two that will focus on some of the smaller farmed animal sanctuaries that are very much changing the world for animals. The sanctuary community is so deeply important to the overall animal rights movement, and in this week's episode, as well as next week's, we are delighted to shed light on some of the smaller sanctuaries that are on the front lines of animal rescue, rehabilitation, and education.

With that in mind, joining us today are two sanctuary founders – Cheri Ezell-Vandersluis from Maple Farm Sanctuary and Bill Crain from Safe Haven Sanctuary. Cheri will tell us the unbelievable, life-altering story of how she founded Maple Farm Sanctuary, and Bill will tell us about the incredibly special event that took place at Safe Haven last week in honor of Thanksgiving. We'll give you a clue: It involved some lucky, rescued turkey ambassadors, and a whole bunch of Buddhists.

For our review, Our Hen House's Hollywood correspondent Ari Solomon will give us his take on the movie, Contagion, from an animal rights perspective.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

This week's episode is dedicated to our dear friend, Marti Kheel, a tireless ambassador for animals and women. Marti's passion and compassion paved the way for groundbreaking insight into the world of ecofeminism and animal rights. Thank you for changing the world, Marti Kheel. We miss you already.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 97th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kim Stallwood.

In today's episode, Jasmin will tell you about her vegan whirlwind trip to San Francisco, including the food, the rad, and smugly. Meanwhile, back in New York City, Mariann attended an eye-opening talk about the Non-Human Animal Rights Project given by Steve Wise, and she'll tell us about that. We'll also talk Thanksgiving, including how to survive it as a vegan.

Kim Stallwood (pic from www.kimstallwood.com)

Joining us today is longtime animal activist, Kim Stallwood. Kim, who joined us from his home in England, will talk politics with us – specifically as it relates to animal rights. He'll also discuss with us some of the interconnections between animal rights and gay rights, and – based on his decades involved in this movement – he will ruminate with us on the evolving world of animal issues.

For our review, we'll talk about bars. Not those kind of bars, nor are we talking about law-related bars. We're talking energy bars. In particular, we're giving you our thoughts on the vegan bar, Pure Fit.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Conformity is the jailer of freedom and the enemy of growth.” -John F. Kennedy

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 96th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Elizabeth Hess.

In today's episode, we will tell you about our trip to Jersey, including the activism talk we gave in Montclair, and the vegan restaurants we visited while in the Garden State (like Go Lightly!). We will also let you in on Jasmin’s current obsession with a trashy TV show that she just cannot stop watching, and we'll vent a little about a certain email we received in response to our recent knitting video.

Joining us today is Elizabeth Hess, the author of Nim Chimpsky: The Chimp Who Would be Human. Elizabeth will chat with us about everything from the story of Nim, which was recently re-launched into the public sphere by way of the documentary based on the book, entitled Project Nim – to her experiences as an investigative journalist who went behind the scenes at animal shelters.

Then, for our unscientific, unofficial Facebook survey, we will talk vegetables. More specifically, we asked the question: What is your favorite unusual vegetable? Broccoli, lettuce, and cauliflour need not apply. The results might surprise and perplex you.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If we believe absurdities, we shall commit atrocities.” -Voltaire

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 95th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Will Potter from Green is the New Red. 

In today's episode, we will tell you all about our trips to New Orleans and Boston – both of which took place this past week. In New Orleans, Mariann talked animal law, and in Boston, both of us talked veganism! We'll give you the skinny on our experiences at the biggest VegFest in the country. We'll also tell you about the workshop we attended back here in New York where New York Times columnist Mark Bittman was the super special guest, and we'll ruminate about a whole lot more. Our big birthday bash fundraiser was this past week, too, so we'll tell you all about that deliciousness.

Joining us today is Will Potter – mastermind behind the book and website Green is the New Red. Will, an award-winning independent journalist, will talk to us about how animal rights and environmental activists are being labeled as “eco-terrorists,” and what that means for our safety and freedom. Don't miss this fascinating, horrifying, and ultimately hopeful discussion.

For our review, we'll give you our take on Nathalie Van Balen's new project for kids of all ages, a zine entitled “Happy Thanksliving!” This zine is an accessible and affordable tool that gently challenges some of the ridiculous and antiquated traditions of Thanksgiving, while also celebrating compassion, deliciousness, open-mindedness, and new traditions.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The greatest mistake of the movement has been trying to organize a sleeping people around specific goals. You have to wake the people up first, then you’ll get action.” -Malcolm X

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 94th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Michael Greger and Sally Tamarkin. 

In today's episode, we share our thoughts on everything from the woman who won a contest with the reward of allowing her to visit a dairy farm, to Jasmin's hopes and wishes for her birthday, to the magic of the Diva Cup (don't worry — it’s just a quick mention).

Visit www.nutritionfacts.org

Joining us today is Dr. Michael Greger, a physician, author, and internationally recognized speaker on a number of important public health issues. Dr. Greger will share with us the story of how his grandmother acted as the catalyst for him to pursue a life in medicine, and he will tell us why a healthy, plant-based diet is the only way forward. He will also tell us all about his incredibly exciting new comprehensive resource that you wont want to miss, Nutritionfacts.org.

Also joining us today in Our Hen House is Sally Tamarkin, our new intern extraordinaire. Sally, who recently fell from the planet Wherehaveyoubeenallourlives, will help us out with a segment we like to call our “New Vegan Series,” where she will let us in on her recent transition to veganism and how she plans to merge that with her longtime activism. Sally will stick around for our review, giving us her take on the movie, Babe – including the good, the bad, and the exploitative.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Compassion is the basis of all morality.” -Arthur Schopenhauer 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 93rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Maneesha Deckha, Bruce Wagman, Jaclyn Leeds, Peter Sankoff, Sarah Baeckler, Kristen Stilt, and Joyce Tischler. 

In today's episode, we tell you about the eye-opening and brilliant “Animals in the Arts” presentation created and presented by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau that we attended at Alexander Gray Associates here in New York City. We'll also share with you some big news for Our Hen House – to the tune of being named the Indie Media Powerhouse of 2011 by VegNews Magazine. Oh, and in other big news, Jasmin will talk about her newly platinum hair.

Lay down the law.

This week we come to you from Portland, Oregon, where we were speakers at the annual Lewis and Clark Animal Law Conference. In honor of this one-of-a-kind conference, today's episode is an extended one, and features several concise interviews with some of the movers and shakers from the world of animal law. Talking to us today are such luminaries as Maneesha Deckha, Bruce Wagman, Jaclyn Leeds, Peter Sankoff, Sarah Baeckler, Kristin Stilt, and Joyce Tischler. Today's episode will undoubtedly prove revelatory for non-lawyers, budding lawyers, and seasoned lawyers.

For our review, we will give you our top 5 animal law related films that everyone should see.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” -Dr. Seuss in The Lorax

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 92nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring musician Kirsti Gholson, and  Australian activist, Leigh-Chantelle. 

In today's episode, we discuss everything from black bean brownies, to our thoughts on the importance of finding synergy between vegan food and Occupy Wall Street, to how we can each find super immunity. We'll tell you about an important Mercy for Animals event we attended – and why the gift bags were the best in gift bag history. Plus, we'll discuss whether we come across as too angry or not, and if so, if there's anything wrong with that.

Our first guest today is singer/songwriter Kirsti Gholson, whose new CD – “The Summer I Stopped Whining” – carries strong animal rights messages throughout it. We'll talk to Kirsti about the importance of combining the arts with advocacy, and you'll have the opportunity to win a copy of her new CD.

Also joining us is Leigh-Chantelle, an Australian activist whose many animal rights projects are creating waves not only in her community of Brisbane, but also internationally. Leigh-Chantelle will let us in on some of her inspiring projects, and she'll give us her thoughts on the strengths and weaknesses within the movements — both in Australia and the U.S.

For our review, we'll give you our take on the film, Planeat, by Shelley Lee Davies and Or Schlomi, which is based on the research of T. Colin Campbell.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“There is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” -Winnie the Pooh 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 91st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Liz Marshall from The Ghosts in Our Machine.

In today's episode, we'll give our thoughts on Occupy Wall Street – a quickly growing movement aimed to seek justice for the underdog. We're happy to say that that sentiment includes animals. We'll also talk Russian Bathhouses, soon-to-expire Groupons, and we'll tell you all about the HSUS Gala that we were lucky enough to attend.

Joining us today is Liz Marshall, filmmaker behind The Ghosts in Our Machine — the cross-platform project that goes into the world of the ghosts who are used for clothing, medical and consumer product testing, food, and other forms of exploitation (as featured on our blog). Liz is not only a long-time passionate and compassionate activist, but she's recently become vegan – and will tell us all about her journey. No doubt you will leave this interview feeling inspired and moved by her thoughtful and profound experiences.

For our review, we'll give you our thoughts on the film, Eating – the one that made Las Vegas billionaire, Steve Wynn, go vegan.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” -Desmond Tutu 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 90th episode of Our Hen House, featuring vegan bodybuilder Robert Cheeke. 

In today's episode, we'll give you our thoughts on an event we attended that featured Frances Moore Lappe. (Let's just say that we're probably in the minority with our feelings about it.) We'll also ruminate on everything from juicing to traveling, and we'll tell you about Jasmin’s brother's inadvertent food activism (hint: try Brody’s Bakery immediately). We'll also get you up to speed on our upcoming squawking engagements.

Photo from www.veganbodybuilding.com

Joining us today is vegan bodybuilder Robert Cheeke, who will talk to us about what it takes to be a fit, vegan athlete. You won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind interview, where Robert talks about everything from protein to exercise, with more than a touch of activism throughout.

For our review, we'll tell you about The Whale, the new documentary by Michael Parfit and Suzanne Chisholm that tells the true story of Luna, a young wild orca who lost his family and tried to make friends with people.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Do what you feel in your heart to be right, for you’ll be criticized anyway.” -Eleanor Roosevelt

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 89th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Carolyn Merino Mullin from the National Museum of Animals & Society. 

In today's episode, we give you our thoughts about a vegan art show we attended, and a workshop that Jasmin co-led for Mercy for Animals entitled “Commonality of Oppression.”

Joining us today is Carolyn Merino Mullin, founder and executive director of the National Museum of Animals & Society, which employs traditional museum stratagems in achieving its mission: to enrich the lives of animals and people through exploration of our shared experience. Carolyn will tell us about the role that animal issues play in the museum movement, and will explain the process of bringing her brainchild – this one of a kind museum – to life.

For our review, we'll give you our take on the latest book by powerhouse Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, The 30-Day Vegan Challenge (buy it here).

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“When one tugs at a single thing in nature, he finds it attached to the rest of the world.” -John Muir

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 88th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Danielle Konya of Vegan Treats. 

In today's episode, we tell you all about our vegan adventures in Bethlehem, PA, where we were speaking at the Bethlehem VegFest. We'll also talk about one of our favorite songs, which just so happens to focus on animal rights. The song, entitled “I Broke the Law,” is written and performed by the incredible singer/songwriter, Joy Askew, and gives us serious goosebumps every time we hear it. You won't want to miss this. (Also check out the Art of the Animal video we made of Joy last year.)

Danielle Konya (photo from VeganTreats.com)

You also won't want to miss our inspiring interview, because joining us today is Danielle Konya, the mastermind baker and entrepreneur behind the wildly successful, and out-of-this-world delicious company, Vegan Treats, which is based in Bethlehem, PA. Danielle will tell us how she put vegan desserts on the map, and she'll give us some insight into running a vegan business.

For our review, we'll share our thoughts on the new documentary, Got the Facts on Milk? by Shira Lane. But beware: What you hear might shock you, and it might even change your life.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 87th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Ben Grossblatt from Suicide Food. 

In today's episode, we will ruminate on everything from the use of anger in our activism, to our fascination with growing and picking kale, to the animal law class that Mariann is teaching.

Joining us today is Ben Grossblatt, the creator of Suicide Food, a truly unique blog that collects depictions of animals who act as though they wish to be consumed. Ben will tell us all about Suicide Food, and will discuss with us the use of satire as a means of working toward social change.

We'll also discuss the results of our unscientific, unofficial Facebook survey – which was inspired by a podcast listener's suggestion – where we asked you to explain, in your own words, the importance of veganism as opposed to vegetarianism. The conversation that ensued was unexpected.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“This is winter wheat we’re sowing, and other hands will harvest.” Elizabeth Cady Stanton 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 86th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jess Scone (of Vida Vegan Con, Get Sconed, and Stumptown Vegans), Chelsea Lincoln (of Flavor Vegan), and 6 1/2 year old lifelong vegan, Ruby Bird Hooten. 

In today's episode, Jasmin will give us the vegan skinny on her trip to Portland to speak at the Vida Vegan Bloggers Conference. She’ll tell us all about the food she devoured, the activists she crushed on, and the town that took wonderful care of her as Mariann stayed behind to batten down the hatches, thanks to Hurricane Irene.

“Blissful Bites” by Christy Morgan

Joining us today are three very special Portland guests: First, Vida Vegan Con co-organizer Jess Scone will give us an inside glimpse into what it was like organizing this powerhouse event. She'll also tell us all about her projects: Vida Vegan Con,  Get Sconed, and Stumptown Vegans. Then, blogger Chelsea Lincoln, from Flavor Vegan, will chat with us about everything from how to handle animal lovers who aren't (yet) vegan, to her thoughts on fat acceptance. Our third guest is a very special and incredibly smart little girl. Six-and-a-half year-old Ruby Bird Hooten (of Herbivore Clothing, by association anyway) has been vegan since birth, and will share with us her thoughts on everything from not eating animals, to why she loves her dog, Sassy, to the secrets of making a delicious salad.

For our review, we'll give you our thoughts on Christy Morgan's new cookbook, Blissful Bites, which just hit bookstore shelves. This book is aptly titled, and has quickly become one of our go-to cookbooks. Learn why.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include: 

“We cannot believe that if we refuse to look at what we do not wish to see, it will not exist. This is especially the case when what we do not wish to see is what we wish to eat.” Leo Tolstoy

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog: Jasmin Singer and co-panelist Webly Bowles (of Stumptown Vegans) presenting a Podcasting 101 workshop at Vida Vegan Con. Photo by JL of JL Goes Vegan. 

Welcome to the 85th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Carol J. Adams. 

In today's episode, we explore vegan mentions in non-vegan-specific books, examine our I-just-don't-get-it attitude towards avant garde art and how we'd much rather look at a bird, ruminate on hope and whether it's justified, and get you up to speed on some personal happenings in our lives. Today we come to you from Sag Harbor, where we're visiting family and searching for a good vegan meal.

Joining us today is Carol J. Adams, author of the critically-acclaimed book, The Sexual Politics of Meat, which was just republished for its 20th anniversary. Carol will chat with us about everything from how the feminist-vegetarian scene has changed since she wrote the book, to her thoughts on the fictionalized version of her that appeared on the “Beef episode” of Law and Order SVU.

For our review, we'll share our thoughts on Dr. Michael Greger's newest nutritional DVD, which examines everything vegans and not-yet-vegans need to know about the latest health research. You won't want to miss this review on an eye-opening – not to mention artery-opening – DVD.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Sentiment without action is the ruin of the soul.” -Edward Abbey

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 84th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, with a special appearance from Jasmin’s 87-year-old veg grandma, Sherrey Glickman. 

In today's episode, we will ruminate on everything from animal rights poetry to an offensive t-shirt someone was wearing on the subway, as well as share our thoughts on Holocaust comparisons. We'll also play for you a laugh-out-loud funny message that Jasmin’s mom left for her regarding the film, Planet of the Apes, which – incidentally – we loved.

“The 30-Day Vegan Challenge” by Colleen Patrick-Goudreau

Joining us today is vegan author and inspirational speaker, Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, of Compassionate Cooks. Colleen will give us the vegan skinny on everything from her newest book – The 30 Day Vegan Challenge – to her feelings about using the word “fake” to describe vegan meats. You won't want to miss this enlightening, powerful interview by one of our movement's favorite people.

For our review, we'll be joined by yet another extra special guest – Jasmin’s 87-year-old veg grandma – who will discuss with us the documentary, Project Nim, which tells the story of the chimpanzee, Nim, who became the focus of a landmark experiment in the 1970's. The film was jarring and eye-opening. Don't miss Grandma's insights.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Auschwitz begins whenever someone looks at a slaughterhouse and thinks: they're only animals.”  -Theodor Adorno 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 83rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jo-Anne McArthur of We Animals, Karol Orzechowski of Maximum Tolerated Dose, with special guests Jessica Almy of VegBooks, and our very own Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon.

In today's episode, we come to you from Toronto, where we are eating our way through this glorious, and oh-so-vegan-friendly, Canadian city. We will tell you all about our experiences filming a video that will be all about vegan Toronto, and we'll give you an update on the happenings of the Animal Law Committee of the American Bar Association’s TIPS section.

Photo by Jo-Anne McArthur of We Animals (www.weanimals.org). According to We Animals, “This cub had been rescued by the Animals Asia Foundation two days before the photo was taken. He seems to be enjoying his new room and “hammock”. Vietnam, 2008.”

Joining us today are Toronto activists, Jo-Anne McArthur and Karol Orzechowski. Jo-Anne will give us the skinny on her project, We Animals, which documents, through photography, animals in the human environment. Karol will tell us all about his new feature length film that is currently in production, entitled Maximum Tolerated Dose, which explores animal experimentation by speaking with people who have previously been experimenters or lab technicians, and by telling the stories of animals who have seen both sides of the cage.

For our review, our Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, will give us the animal rights take on The Rise of the Planet of the Apes. You won't want to miss this review (or this film).

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights. As a bonus, special guest Jessica Almy (of VegBooks, among other things) will join us for our news section.

This week’s news items include:

“Lots of people talk to animals… Not very many listen, though… That's the problem.” -Benjamin Hoff from The Tao of Pooh

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog: By Jo-Anne McArthur of We Animals. “Street dog, Chile, 2005″

Welcome to the 82nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Farm Sanctuary‘s National Shelter Director, Susie Coston. 

In today's episode, we tell you about our vegan happenings back here in New York City, including a frolic uptown to check out Ayurveda Café (where we met the Shannons), then on to see an old Molly Ringwald movie. We'll also discuss the importance of recognizing the difference between vegan potlucks and vegan outreach. And we'll give you our take on how to approach people who say the incredibly annoying – yet all too common – sentence, “Oh, but I buy my meat locally…”

Joining us today is Susie Coston, Farm Sanctuary's National Shelter Director. Susie, who is one of our heroes and soon to be one of yours (if she's not already), will talk about everything from the importance of the sanctuary movement, to stories of animals in her life who have touched her beyond words. Trust us: You won't want to miss her heartfelt insights.

“Pack of Two” by Caroline Knapp

For our review, our Hollywood correspondent Ari Solomon will give us the skinny on the book, Pack of Two: The Intricate Bond Between People and Dogs, by Caroline Knapp.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If the times aren’t ripe, you have to ripen the times.” -Dorothy Height, social activist and educator
You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog: Farm Sanctuary Shelter Director Susie Coston holds long-time resident Bron as he is being euthanized, 2006. Photo by Jo-Anne McArthur of We Animals. 

Welcome to the 81st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jackie Horrick of Alternative Outfitters, and Ari Solomon of A Scent of Scandal Candles. 

In today's episode, we come to you from Los Angeles, California, where we're speaking at the National Animal Rights Conference, and enjoying the vegan and activist scene here in Tinseltown. We'll give you some inside stories of the conference, including new insights we gleaned from it, and we'll also tell you all about the vegan food we experienced while visiting the West Coast (including Stuff I Eat, which we visited with Lynn Chen of The Actor’s Diet).

Your name here.

Joining us today is Jackie Horrick, owner of the uber-popular vegan store, Alternative Outfitters. Though largely based online, Alternative Outfitters has a fantastic storefront in Pasadena. Today, we visit the store and chat with Jackie all about the amazing activism she regularly participates in here in L.A., and we also talk to her about what it's like running a vegan business. Joining us for that interview and for our review is Our Hen House's Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon.

For our review, we'll chat with Ari about the Veggie Grill movement. The Veggie Grill is a huge fast-food chain of healthy, vegan food here in Southern California, but they have plans on expanding everywhere. We'll let you in on that, and on what you have to order the next time you find yourself at a Veggie Grill.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“When no one else cared, I can tell you, the little old ladies cared.” -Carol J. Adams

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 80th episode of Our Hen House, featuring filmmaker Marisa Miller Wolfson, powerhouse behind the new movie Vegucated. 

In today's episode, we will talk about the new vegan item at Starbucks and the backlash that we and other vegans have received because of it. We’ll banter about the fragmented world within the vegan scene here in New York City. And we'll give you the skinny on the vegan BBQ where Jasmin gave her Summertime Food Activism spiel, and why she was pleasantly surprised to not recognize anyone there.

A scene from the new documentary, Vegucated (www.getvegucated.com)

Joining us today is Marisa Miller Wolfson, filmmaker behind the newly-released documentary, Vegucated, which follows three meat- and cheese-loving New Yorkers as they learn about the horrors of animal food production, and the wonders of veganism. Marisa will give us a glimpse into the process of creating a feature-length documentary, and how she managed to keep the movie entertaining, despite being faced with some of the most depressing truths one can imagine.

For our review, we'll tell you all about the book (yes, book), Forks Over Knives: The How-To Companion to the Feature Documentary Forks Over Knives. Two lucky listeners will also have a chance to win this useful, accessible book, so listen closely!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Justice, or even benevolence, will not be a powerful spring of action unless it extends to the whole creation.” -Mary Wollstonecraft 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 79th episode of Our Hen House, featuring bestselling author of Skinny Bitch, powerhouse Rory Freedman. 

In today's episode, we give you the skinny on our trip to Rockaway Beach here in NYC, and all the amazing, mindblowing vegan options that this odd expanse of boardwalk had to offer. We also will give you the rundown on our inspiring event with historian and author James McWilliams, which we called “The Truth Will Set Them Free.”

Rory Freedman inspires us today on our podcast.

Joining us today is Rory Freedman, bestselling author of Skinny Bitch. Rory, who is one of the most instrumental animal activists of our time, will give us her take on karaoke, breakfast smoothies, ex-vegans, and the future of the animal rights movement.

For our review, we will give you our snapping thoughts of Pur Gum, a totally vegan, aspartame-free gum that is available far and wide. (Spoiler alert: YUM!)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from animal rights.

This week’s news items include: 

“What is man without the beasts? If all the beasts were gone, man would die from a great loneliness of spirit. For whatever happens to the beasts, soon happens to man. All things are connected.” -Chief Seattle

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 78th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kelly Peloza and David Wolfson. 

In today's episode, we talk about everything from the vegan ice cream we found at the Jersey Shore (Eddie Confetti), to the long-debated quandary of how to handle family members who eat animal products in front of you, to how to introduce animal issues to kids, and so much more. We'll also tell you about a few shows we saw here in New York City, including one non-fiction reading series (Freerange Nonfiction) that featured a famous vegan comedian.

Joining us today is 20-year-old vegan cookbook author, Kelly Peloza, whose book – The Vegan Cookie Connoisseur – includes such goodies as cookies fashioned after famous drinks. Kelly, who started writing the book when she was 15, will give some tips on activism for young people. We guarantee you'll be as inspired as we are by this incredibly successful do-gooder.

Shirley Temple Cookies by Kelly Peloza, The Vegan Cookie Connoisseur. We’ve tried these. Yes, they’re as good as they look. YUM.

For our news section, we'll be joined by special guest animal rights lawyer David Wolfson, who will discuss with us the groundbreaking agreement to introduce federal legislation in the United States that will impact farmed animals.

For our review, we will tell you about the new vegan soap and body product line, Foreue.

Don’t miss our review of Foreue.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

“Now this is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning.” -Winston Churchill 

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Jasmin’s 87-year-old vegetarian Grandma and her vegan button.

Welcome to the 77th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Beth Gallie, Susan Rooker, and Betsy Carson.

In today's episode, we come to you from Portland, Maine, where we are speaking at the Maine Vegetarian Festival and experiencing all the vegan goodness that this pretty New England city has to offer.

Chatting with us today are VegFest organizer, Beth Gallie; as well the author of the children's book Lucky Pigs, Susan Rooker; and the producer of the Maine-based vegan show, Delicious TV, Betsy Carson.

We'll also be reviewing Gobble Green, a vegan gourmet meal delivery service.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“We must be able to take out of our desires and our visions a template or a pattern for the future.” -Audra Lorde

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 76th episode of Our Hen House, featuring vegan cookbook author Terry Hope Romero, and Mad City Vegan Fest co-organizer, Courtney Mayhew.

In today's special expanded episode, we come to you from Madison, Wisconsin, where we are speaking at the Mad City Vegan Fest. We'll give you our full report of all the vegan delectables Madison has to offer, as well as the other Mad City activities that kept us busy during this incredibly inspiring trip to the Midwest.

We'll talk to Vegan Fest co-organizer Courtney Mayhew all about the nuts and bolts of what it takes to organize a successful, huge-scale event like this. Courtney will also let us in on the vegan scene in Madison, and will tell us about some of the advocacy she's been spearheading during her day job as a nurse practitioner.

Also joining us today is Terry Hope Romero, another speaker at the Mad City Vegan Fest, and bestselling author of several vegan cookbooks. Terry will give us the skinny on everything from how vegan food – and animal activism – have changed since she started her auspicious career, to how to reach out to people in a friendly, non-judgmental way that will inspire them to stay in it for the long-run.

Don’t miss our review of “Queen of the Sun”

For our review, we'll be giving you our take on the documentary, Queen of the Sun, which explores the dark underbelly of the global bee crisis.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.” -Leo Tolstoy

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

It’s (... More)

Welcome to the 75th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Myq Kaplan.

In today's episode, we will tell you about Mariann's talk on farm animal law for the activist, Jasmin’s new article on the connections between gay rights and animal rights, and the amazing dinner we had at a vegan pop-up restaurant here in NYC.

It’s true. He’s funny. And vegan.

Joining us today is vegan comedian Myq Kaplan, who will tell is what it was like to be in the top 5 of “Last Comic Standing,” and will give us the skinny on his CD, “Vegan Mind Meld.”

As a special added section of today’s podcast, Our Hen House's reviewer, Kyle Knies, will let us in on how his recent volunteer vacation to India was, including stories about working with some animals there.

For our review, we'll let you know what we thought of flaxmilk. (That's right – flax milk!)

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“A time comes when silence is betrayal.” -Martin Luther King, Jr.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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 thriled if you would also consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 74th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Kathy Freston.

In today's episode, we will talk about everything from the mouse in our house, to our big vegan trip to Philadelphia, and our farewell to one of our favorite restaurants.

Joining us today is bestselling author Kathy Freston, who will talk about her belief in the power of positivity. Kathy will also tell us all about how Veganist came to be, and will give us a gentle reminder of the importance of acceptance.

Don’t miss Kathy Freston’s inspiring interview.

Then, we'll be joined by our Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, who will give us the skinny on the latest animal rights extravaganza to hit Tinseltown. Ari will also enlighten us with his review of the dog-centric novel, The Art of Racing in the Rain.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“New and stirring things are belittled because if they are not belittled the humiliating question arises ‘Why then are you not taking part in them?” -H.G. Wells

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. 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 thriled if you would also consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Horsing around. Joining (... More)

Welcome to the 73rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring lawyer and professor, Rebecca Huss.

In today's episode, we will get you up to speed on everything from the vegan meal delivery service we're trying, to the movies we're loathing, and the cruelty-free cookouts we're collecting.

Horsing around.

Joining us today is lawyer and professor, Rebecca Huss, who will tell us all about companion animal law, and how her veganism relates to her personal and professional academic and legal activism.

For our review, we'll share with you our thoughts on the new Broadway play, War Horse, which follows the story of a horse, Joey, during World War I.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing.” ~ Muhammad Ali

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 72nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring NOLA Veggie Fest organizers, Dr. Leslie Brown and Jehan Strouse.

In today's episode, we come to you from Amelia Island, Florida, and New Orleans, Louisiana. In Amelia Island, Mariann was busy with an animal law meeting, and in Nawlins, we both were excited to speak at the fabulous NOLA Veggie Fest. We will give you the full roundup of those two events, as well as our vegan adventures in those two very different towns.

Joining us today are the organizers of the NOLA Veggie Fest, Dr. Leslie Brown – who, when she's not helping to put together the Veggie Fest, is a pediatrician who vocally advocates a plant-based diet — and Jehan Strouse, nutritionist extraordinaire, who spends her days immersed in selling vegan food to health food stores, and working on further veganizing the jazzy city that she is so passionate about.

The vegan gumbo is not to be missed.

For our review, we will tell you all about the book, Good Time Eatin' in Cajun Country: Cajun Vegetarian Cooking, by Donna Simon. In Southern Style, we will try our hand at everything from Vegan Gumbo to Cajun Tofu.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“Take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.” -Elie Wiesel

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 71st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Joshua Katcher.

In today's episode, we’ll tell you about the vegan happenings in our world, including an incredible clothing swap that provided us with an entire new wardrobe, our long overdue night at the prom, and our fabulous night out at Farm Sanctuary‘s 25th Anniversary Gala, where Jasmin played ace reporter. We’ll also tell you about a video we filmed all about knitting, without the wool of course, and we’ll contemplate our upcoming trip to sunny Florida, where Mariann will take part in some bar association animal law goings-on, and steamy New Orleans, where we will both be speaking at the long-awaited NOLA Veggie Fest.

Brave Gentle Man

Joining us today is Joshua Katcher of the Discerning Brute, who will tell us all about his soon-to-be-launched new venture, Brave Gentle Man. Joshua will fill us in on everything fashionable in the vegan world, and will share some exciting news about new vegan trends and new vegan products for men, including bow ties! (Though is there anyone out there who looks as good in a bow tie as Joshua does?) He will also discuss the latest in fur activism and anti-fur message wear, including the cutting edge work from “Pinnacle: Reinvent the Icon.”

For our review, Our Hen House’s Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, will join us for his take on a new, and moving, HBO production, Saving Pelican 895.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Faced with the choice between changing one’s mind and proving that there is no need to do so, almost everyone gets busy on the proof.” John Kenneth Galbraith

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 70th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Alka Chandna.

In today's episode, we will tell you about the vegan happenings in our world. We'll talk with our genius intern, Nick Laccetti, about a class he attended on religion that incorporated animal rights material. We'll give you our thoughts on Mother's Day, and we'll let you in on our meeting with the kind folks over at From A to Vegan.

Joining us today is Alka Chandna, the Laboratory Oversight Specialist for PETA. Alka will talk to us about her work fighting vivisection, why this is such a difficult area of animal protection advocacy, and why the laws are ineffective in protecting these animals. She'll also tell us about some successful campaigns she's been a part of, as well as her own inspiring story of how her parents’ activism led to her own.

For our review, we'll tell you all about the book, Garlic-Onion-Beet-Spinach-Mango-Carrot-Grapefruit Juice, by Nathalie VanBalen.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“For the fate of man and the fate of beast — they have one and the same fate: as one dies, so does the other, and they all have the same spirit. Man has no superiority over beast.” Ecclesiastes 3:19

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Episode 70 is dedicated to the memory of Mary Hardy.

Mary Hardy in her garden

Welcome to the episode 69 of Our Hen House, featuring Masami Mizuguchi and Kozue Watanabe from Choices for Tomorrow.

In today's episode, Mariann and I will tell you about our adventures filming the forthcoming NYC Vegan Weekend on a Budget video – including the many sweets we consumed, and the sweet people we ran into, during our very long one day film shoot. We'll air our dirty laundry a bit and tell you about why things are so overwhelming sometimes, and we'll talk about ways to keep it under control and avoid burnout.

“Mama Pig” by Bonnie Shulman, downloaded from Vegan Stock Photo, courtesy of a Creative Commons License (http://www.veganstockphoto.com/photo/view/id/188)

Joining us today are Masami Mizuguchi and Kozue Watanabe, from the animal advocacy organization, Choices for Tomorrow. Masami and Kozue have been heavily involved in the efforts to rescue animals in the aftermath of Japan's disastrous earthquake and tsunami.  They will get us up to speed on what has – and hasn't – been happening for animals, and how we can help out. (Also see our blog post, The Animals of Japan, for more info on how to get involved with these efforts.)

For our review, we'll give you the skinny on the new movie, Equine Destiny, which exposes the horrors of horse slaughter. It will lead us into a lively discussion about the problems of single-issue animal advocacy.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“The only tired I was, was tired of giving in.” -Rosa Parks

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog: “Lamb” by Neil, downloaded from Vegan Stock Photo, and used courtesy of a Creative Commons License.

Welcome to the 68th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Neal Barnard, M.D., and Dan Dunbar.

In today's episode, we'll give you our full report on our Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale, including the good, the better, and the burnt. We'll also tell you about our one day trip to Washington DC to present at the Eating Green Conference. Plus, we'll give you some delicious news about the new vegan doughnut line to come to the Big Doughnut – I mean the Big Apple – Dunwell Doughnuts, and we'll chat with co-founder Dan Dunbar.

Joining us today is Dr. Neal Barnard, M.D., who will tell us all about his new book, the 21 Day Weight Loss Kickstart, a book which, of course, advocates a plant-based diet. Dr. Barnard will tell us about his role running the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine, and he'll talk all about the specifics of living as optimally as possible, while consuming delicious vegan grub.

For our review, we'll give you the skinny on Food for Lovers' vegan queso, a delectable new item that will likely become your newest obsession.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Once social change begins, it cannot be reversed.” -Cesar Chavez

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog: “Miss Piggy,” a happy resident at Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary.

Welcome to the 67th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Joe Cross, filmmaker behind Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead.

In today's episode, we will tell you about Jasmin’s adventure with corsets — all for the animals, of course. We'll report on how Jasmin’s “Writing for Animal Rights” talk went, and we'll make you jealous with the food we had afterwards. We'll also very briefly give you our take on the latest vegan story in the news.

Don’t miss the review of Star Trek 4, from an AR perspective!

Joining us today is Joe Cross, the mastermind behind the film that changed our lives, Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead. Joe will talk to us all about his journey doing a 60-day juice fast, and will give us unbelievable insight not only into the benefits of juice fasting, but also the sad state of the American diet.

For our review, Our Hen House's own Ari Solomon will give us his take on Star Trek 4, from an animal rights perspective. You might be surprised at his observations!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The fate of animals is of greater importance to me than the fear of appearing ridiculous.” -Émile Zola

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 66th episode of Our Hen House, featuring James E. McWilliams.

In today's episode, we will tell you about the fundraiser we attended, Comedy for Karma, including our take on the amazing vegan comics, and the pitiful, un-funny bullies who also took to the stage. We'll give you the round-up on Mariann's birthday celebrations, including our gallivant to the best raw restaurant on the planet, and our role in the mention of “vegan” and “cruelty-free” on NPR radio.

We'll tell you about Jasmin’s new article in VegNews and why it will likely make you ravenous, and we'll give you the skinny on the undercover investigator who spoke at Mariann's animal law class. We'll also give you the latest on Jasmin’s Pinup for Pitbulls adventure, our upcoming talks on activism, and so much more.

“Just Food” by James E. McWilliams

Joining us today is none other than James E. McWilliams, esteemed columnist for The Atlantic and the New York Times and author of several books, including Just Food: Where Locavores Get it Wrong and How We Can Truly Eat Responsibly. James, a true environmentalist, will give us his take on veganism, and how sustainable food choices should be shaped by what our food is, not where it comes from.

For our review, we'll be telling you all about the new documentary, The Elephant in the Living Room, which examines the world of exotic pet-keeping.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Any glimpse into the life of an animal quickens our own and makes it so much the larger and better in every way.” -John Muir

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 65th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Gene Baur, Delci Winders, and Jenny Rigterink.

In today's episode, we come to you from New Orleans, Louisiana, where we will give you the rundown on the vegan and activist scene here, as well as the cutting-edge resolution that one law school passed which will ensure vegan food at events. We'll talk with the law student, Jenny Rigterink, responsible for that winning campaign. While in New Orleans, we also will catch up with Farm Sanctuary's president, Gene Baur, who will give us the inside skinny on what it was like to be on the vegan episode of the Martha Stewart Show – something we're excited to hear about, particularly since we were in the audience.

“You know what it means to miss New Orleans…”

Back in NY, we arrive just in time to speak at the NYC Vegetarian Food Festival, and we'll tell you all about that massive and impressive event.

Joining us today is Delci Winders, PETA's director of captive animal law enforcement. Delci, who is based in New Orleans, will not only give us the ins and outs of the veganness of this jazzy city, but will also get us up to speed on the life-saving work she is doing with PETA – as well as teach us the nuts and bolts of the issues involved with circus animals and roadside zoos.

For our review, we'll tell you all about the juicy documentary, Fat Sick & Nearly Dead, which not only changed the lives of the film's subjects through the power of juicing, but it also changed our lives. We'll tell you why.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Who can believe that there is no soul behind those luminous eyes!” -Theophile Gautier

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 64th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Jane Velez-Mitchell.

In today's episode, we will tell you about a panel we attended here in NYC all about local agriculture. We'll give you all the gory details, including the skinny on the 3 meat-obsessed panelists, as well as the one voice of reason on the stage, our saving grace, environmentalist James E. McWilliams. We'll also talk about the recent vegan segment on the Ellen DeGeneres Show, and we'll give you the low-down on our very musical weekend.

Joining us today is none other than Jane Velez-Mitchell, host of the nightly show on CNN's HLN, Issues with Jane Velez-Mitchell. Jane, a true ambassador for animal rights, will tell us what got her started on this path, and she'll share with us her hope for the future of this movement. She'll also be telling us all about her amazing new book, Addict Nation: An Intervention for America, which, as part of a no-holds-barred discussion of our various addictions, addresses our country's addiction to unhealthy, unethical food. You won't want to miss this interview with powerhouse Jane Velez-Mitchell. You'll also have the opportunity to win your very own signed copy of the book, Addict Nation. (To enter to win, listen to the podcast, and email contest[at]ourhenhouse.org indicating that you are entering to win a copy of Jane’s book. Please include your full mailing address. You must send your email by midnight ET on April 9, 2011. A random winner will be chosen and notified on the week of April 10.)

For our review, Ari Solomon will give us his take on Galaxy Nutritional Foods' new dairy free cream cheese alternative. But be forewarned: This review will likely result in your needing to bake a vegan cheesecake pretty much immediately, possibly to be eaten with a bagel and schmear on the side.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“We could have saved the Earth but we were too damned cheap.” –Kurt Vonnegut

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 63rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Paul Waldau.

In today's episode, we'll give you the trials and tribulations of the latest Food Network stunt, and how that pertains to us vegans. You'll find out why the producers of the new show “Meat and Potatoes” just don't get it! We'll give the latest on our fast for health and, our dog Rose's new homemade vegan food. We'll also talk about pinups – so stay tuned.

“Animal Rights: What Everyone Needs to Know” by Paul Waldau

Joining us today is Paul Waldau, author of the new book, Animal Rights: What Everyone Needs to Know. In addition to discussing that groundbreaking book with us, Paul, who has also written extensively on animals in religion, will discuss what everyone needs to know about religion and animal rights.

For our review, we will be joined by our fabulous Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, who will give us the skinny on last weekend's Genesis Awards, honoring the major news and entertainment media for producing outstanding works that raise public awareness of animal issues.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“When I see bacon, I see a pig; I see a little friend, and that's why I can't eat it. Simple as that.” -Paul McCartney

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

John Bartlett Joining (... More)

Welcome to the 62nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring fashion designer John Bartlett.

In today's episode, we will discuss everything from our latest need to chill out and take inventory, to the beauty of kale chips, to some tickets we scored to attend a vegan episode of a popular TV talk show.

John Bartlett

Joining us today is fashion designer John Bartlett, who will tell us all about his newfound veganism and his plans to become a 100% vegan designer.

For our review, we'll give you our take on e.l.f. cosmetics, which will launch us into an unanticipated discussion about make-up.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Support your right to arm bears.” -Cleveland Amory

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you're listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it's tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 61st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Brighter Green‘s Mia MacDonald.

In today's episode, we will discuss how veganism is portrayed in the media. We’ll also let you in on why one particular day this week started out anything but sunny, and how it has to do with our blog.

Joining us today is Mia MacDonald, the director and founder of the public policy action tank, Brighter Green. Mia will talk to us about what it's like to devote your life to issues that span the environment, animals, and sustainable development, both globally and locally. Her stories and facts will both shock and inspire, so stay tuned.

For our review, Our Hen House's resident rooster, Kyle Knies, will give you his take about the new movie, The Last Lions.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“It is just like man's vanity and impertinence to call an animal dumb because it is dumb to his dull perceptions.” -Mark Twain

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment!  Also, if you like what you’re listening to, please consider making a donation. Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, so it’s tax-deductible! Thanks!

Welcome to the 60th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Pamela Frasch from the Center for Animal Law Studies, and Scot Fitzsimmons from the vegan shoe store, Sudo Shoes.

In today's episode, we come to you from Cambridge, Massachusetts, where Mariann is a judge in the Center for Animal Law Studies' moot court competition at Harvard Law School.

As usual, we are eating our way through the city and reporting on our scrumptions vegan findings.

We'll be chatting with Scot Fitzsimmons, owner of Cambridge's brand new all-vegan shoe store, Sudo Shoes. Then, joining us will be Pamela Frasch, Assistant Dean of the Lewis and Clark Law School Animal Law Program & Executive Director of the Center for Animal Law Studies. Pamela will talk to us about the animal law competitions being held during our weekend in Cambridge, and all the amazing work the being done by the Center for Animal Law Studies.

Finally, in honor of our being in Beantown, we asked you what your favorite bean is! The results are a hoot.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“Wilbur burst into tears.‘I dont want to die,' he moaned.‘I want to stay alive, right here in my comfortable manure pile with all my friends. I want to breathe the beautiful air and lie in the beautiful sun.'” E.B. White, in Charlotte’s Web

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 59th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Simone Reyes from Running Russell Simmons, and Drew Winter from The Vegan Sex Shop.

In today's episode, we will tell you all about the workshop Jasmin led earlier this week for Mercy for Animals, entitled “Taking the Step from Veganism to Activism.” We'll also share with you our eating adventures through Veganland, including a daytrip to Brooklyn (Eclipse Restaurant has a winning vegetarian menu) and another one to Red Bank, NJ (get yourself to Good Karma Cafe).

“Don’t eat me.”

Joining us today is Simone Reyes, from the hit show on Oxygen, Running Russell Simmons. A tried and true activist, Simone will give us the skinny on what it's like to run Russell Simmons, as well as share her take on fur activism and other forms of animal activism. Plus, she'll give you her thoughts on the vegan-friendliness of NYC versus LA.

For our review, we'll be joined by Drew Winter, founder of The Vegan Sex Shop. Drew will share his story of starting this new endeavor, as well as give us tips on, you guessed it, vegan sex products. You don’t want to miss this review, at the end of which we'll announce a contest where you can win your very own Vegan Sex Shop t-shirt!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Concern should drive us into action and not into a depression.” -Pythagoras

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 58th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Leigh and Ken Saluzzi of Cosmo’s Vegan Shoppe, and Jeanette Zeis of VeganDish.

In today's episode, we come to you from Atlanta, Georgia, where we are sampling all of the vegan yumminess this city has to offer, and meeting up with activists and entrepreneurs who are changing the world for animals right here in the beautiful south. We'll catch up with Jeanette Zeis from VeganDish, who will give us the inside scoop of what it's like to run a vegan-themed pottery business. Then, joining us today for our feature interview are Ken and Leigh Saluzzi from Cosmo's Vegan Shoppe. Ken and Leigh will share with us their esteemed opinion on hot new vegan products, and they'll offer advice to anyone interested in starting a vegan business.

VeganDish by Jeanette Zeis

For our review, we'll give you a sneak peak into the up-and-coming vegan bakery here in Atlanta called Dough. If you don't live in Atlanta, you might just want to plan a visit.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The most violent element in society is ignorance.” -Emma Goldman

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 57th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Daniel Hauff, Director of Investigations from Mercy for Animals.

In today's episode, we come to you from The Windy City, where we are hanging out with the good folks at Mercy for Animals, eating all of the vegan grub Chicago has to offer, and trying to wear enough layers to shield us from the very chilly temperatures.

mercyforanimals.org

Joining us today is Daniel Hauff, Mercy for Animals' Director of Investigations. Daniel will talk to us about the ins and outs of being behind the scenes doing the most hard-hitting job imaginable, including how he supports his precious undercover investigators, as well as the skinny on some recent investigations MFA conducted that truly have the power to change the world.

For our review, Mariann and I will talk about Dead Pile, a new play in Chicago that goes undercover at a dairy facility. Stay tuned to hear all about our thoughts on this new theatrical endeavor.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Many years ago I found out something about hamburgers that really grossed me out. You may not know this, so I hope I don't make you sick, but it turns out hamburgers are actually made out of dead cows. I am not making this up. Needless to say, as soon as I discovered that, I gave up meat entirely.” -Weird Al Yankovic

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 56th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring ethologist Jonathan Balcombe.

In today’s episode, we will give you our reactions to Oprah’s Vegan Challenge, including the good, the bad, and the unbelievably annoying.

Joining us today is scientist, ethologist and author Jonathan Balcombe, who will discuss his research and findings on the sentience of animals, as well as his upcoming book, The Exultant Ark: A Pictorial Tour of Animal Pleasure.

“The Exultant Ark” by Jonathan Balcombe

For our review, we will be joined by Our Hen House’s Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, who will lead us in a colorful discussion about the musical Wicked, from an animal rights perspective, of course.

Plus we’ll announce the two winners of our Valentine’s Day vegan truffles giveaway (thanks again for those, Brody’s Bakery).

All that, vegan banter, and, of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If men had wings and bore black feathers, few of them would be clever enough to be crows.” -Henry Ward Beecher

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 55th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Vegan Outreach co-founder, Matt Ball.

In today's episode, we will bring you our tales of veganland, including our new Art of the Animal video, our delicious and convenient grocery service, adventures in teaching animal law, and a sweet contest for you that might bring vegan chocolates your way.

Joining us today is Matt Ball, co-founder of the brilliant animal advocacy organization, Vegan Outreach (and co-author with recent podcast guest Bruce Friedrich of The Animal Activist’s Handbook). After sharing the inspiring story of how this powerhouse organization began, Matt will give us tips on good, old fashioned, and effective grassroots tactics.

veganoutreach.org

Today's Facebook survey will be brought to you by the official Our Hen House pit bull, our pup, Rose, who asks her fellow dog-listeners the question: What kind of vegan dog treat do you fancy?

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

Referring to cow's milk, the late Jack LaLanne once said, “It's not good for you. It's good for a suckling calf. Are you a suckling calf?” The ultimate American fitness guru, Jack was on TV when Mariann was just a wee lass. He believed in the power of fruits and vegetables, which was proven by his 96 years of life. Rest in peace, Jack LaLanne.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 54th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Elizabeth Olsen.

In today's episode, we’ll tell you about our big trip to New Jersey, including our visit to Kaya’s Kitchen, the vegan restaurant in Belmar that you simply have to visit during your next excursion to the Jersey Shore.

Joining us today is Elizabeth Olsen, the mastermind behind the vegan designer shoe line, olsen Haus. Elizabeth will tell us all about the trials and tribulations of the fashion business as well as the joys of success — all from a vegan perspective.

Olsen Haus Pure Vegan

For our review, we will be joined by our Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, who will lead us in a lively discussion of one of our favorite animal-themed Hollywood movies, The Year of the Dog.

All that, vegan banter, and, of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

“My doctrine is this: that if we see cruelty or wrong that we have the power to stop, and we do nothing, we make ourselves sharers in the guilt.” ~ Anna Sewell

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog: Courtesy of Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary

Welcome to the 53rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring John Goodwin.

On today's episode – our first anniversary – we will fill you in on the workshop Jasmin did at Bluestockings bookstore on Going Vegan in 2011. We will also answer some questions from you about our own plans for 2011.

Joining us today is John Goodwin, the manager of animal fighting issues at the Humane Society of the United States, who will tell us everything we ever wanted to know about cockfighting and dogfighting, and the continuing efforts being made to end it.

For this week's review, we will be joined by our Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, who will give us the low-down on I'm Sorry, a brand new animal rights themed play that just opened in Los Angeles.

All that, vegan banter, and, of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“In matters of conscience, the law of majority has no place.” -Mohandas Gandhi

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 52nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Annie and Dan Shannon of The Betty Crocker Project.

In today's episode, we will share our excitement about Our Hen House in the news. Plus, we'll tell you about the glorious time we had while visiting a sanctuary in Vermont, just in time to bring in the New Year.

Joining us today are Annie and Dan Shannon, the power couple behind the Betty Crocker Project, which aims to veganize every recipe in the Betty Crocker Cookbook.

Dan and Annie Shannon

We'll also share with you the results of our unofficial, unscientific Facebook survey which asked the question: What is your favorite animal-friendly message-wear slogan? And of course, we'll give you our favorites, plus chat about some of the more controversial ones.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

Edgar Kupfer was a survivor of the Dachau death camp. After his liberation, he furtively scrawled the following message on the wall of a hospital barrack: “I refuse to eat animals because I cannot nourish myself by the sufferings and by the death of other creatures. I refuse to do so, because I suffered so painfully myself that I can feel the pain of others by recalling my own sufferings.”

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 51st podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart.

In today's episode, we will tell you about a New Year's leafleting we did, and we'll share our resolutions for changing our attitudes in the coming year.

Joining us today is Leanne Mai-ly Hilgart, the beauty and brains behind the designer vegan fashion line, Vaute Couture. Leanne will talk to us about everything from starting and running a vegan business, to fabric research, to modeling in Hong Kong.

www.vautecouture.com

For our review section, Our Hen House's reviewer, Kyle Knies, will review the book, Raw for Dessert: Easy Delights for Everyone, by Jennifer Cornbleet.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Why is taste, the crudest of our senses, exempted from the ethical rules that govern our other senses?” -Jonathan Safran Foer

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 50th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Mary and Mark Hardy from The Lodge, a vegan retreat in Grenada. Also featuring Alexis Brill as part of our New Vegan Series.

In today's episode, we will start by telling you about some unusual Christmas caroling we did in Central Park. (Clue: “We wish you wouldn't whip us…”) Then, we'll let you know which celebrity we spotted at a hot NYC vegan restaurant (OMG!), and the conversation that ensued.

Then, we'll tell you all about our trip to Grenada, where we stayed at a breathtakingly beautiful vegan lodge. Joining us today are the masterminds behind the lodge in Grenada, Mary and Mark Hardy, former peace activists with quite a story to tell.

Merry Christmas

Following that, we once again bring you our new vegan series, where we will be joined by the articulate and lovely Alexis Brill, who we met several months ago at a dog and cat adoption event in NYC. Alexis will share her story of widening her circle of compassion to include all animals.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Nothing is more powerful than an individual acting out of his own conscience, thus helping to bring the collective conscience to life.” -Norman Cousins

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 49th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Bart Potenza and Joy Pierson.

Joining us today are two of our favorite change-makers, Bart Potenza and Joy Pierson, the couple behind the best vegan restaurant on the planet, Candle 79, and of course, the absolutely delectable Candle Café.  Joy and Bart will tell us about how a winning lottery ticket (!) was the green light for them to start their Vegan Empire. They'll also share relationship advice, business advice, and a whole lot more!

“Let’s get squawking!”

Our Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, is back once again – this time to give us the vegan skinny on the big Hollywood PETA holiday party.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“As long as there are slaughterhouses, there will be battlefields.” -Leo Tolstoy

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 48th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Joel Fuhrman.

In today's episode, we will give you our take on the NYC premier of the film, Forks Over Knives, which filled up a theatre on 19th Street.

Joining us today is Dr. Joel Fuhrman, author of Eat to Live. Dr. Fuhrman will talk to us all about nutrition, including hot topics such as protein, B12, and processed foods.

For our review section, we will be joined by Ari Solomon, who will review the film, Never Let Me Go, from an animal rights perspective!

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This bear loves Our Hen House.

This week’s news items include:

“For as long as men massacre animals, they will kill each other. Indeed, he who sows the seed of murder and pain cannot reap joy and love.” -Pythagoras

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 47th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Bruce Friedrich.

In today's episode, we will be talking Hanukah – and we'll let you know what newest kitchen gadget of ours will result in us no longer needing to buy soymilk. We'll also discuss other items that have been on our minds, including the medieval animal trials, and vegan latkes.

Joining us today is Bruce Friedrich, Vice President of Policy at PETA and co-author (with Matt Ball) of The Animal Activist’s Handbook. Bruce will give us his thoughts on effective activism, and a whole lot more.

For our review section, we will be joined by Our Hen House reviewer Kyle Knies. Kyle will giving you his tasty take on the cookbook More Great Good Dairy Free Desserts Naturally, by Fran Costigan.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Each person must live their life as a model for others.” -Rosa Parks

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 46th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Heather and Jenny Goldberg, “The Spork Girls.”

In today's episode, Mariann will share with you her latest reinvention – a big one, which will impact both our lives as well as Our Hen House. You don't want to miss this. We'll also give you the skinny on some insanely delicious vegan grub we grabbed this week in New York City. (Think: Gracious Gourmand and Candle 79.)

Jenny and Heather Goldberg

Speaking of delicious food, joining us today are the Spork girls – that's Jenny and Heather Goldberg, from Sporkonline.com. The two sisters will tell us everything you ever wanted to know about vegan food — from kitchen essentials that you really must have, to some soothing, hearty foods that perfectly complement the beginning of colder weather. The Spork girls will also tell us about their amazing new online cooking class, which has already enlightened and inspired us.

For our review section, we will talk about Sue Coe's harrowing and gorgeous book, Pit's Letter, which is written from the point of view of a hapless pit bull with a very big heart.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“A little knowledge that acts is worth infinitely more than much knowledge that is idle.” -Kahlil Gibran

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 45th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Erica Meier.

In today's episode, we are talking Thanksgiving. We'll chat about what it's like to be a vegan around this odd holiday, and we'll also discuss some of the true wonders of one of our favorite species of animals, the turkey.

Joining us today is Erica Meier, director of Compassion Over Killing. Erica will discuss the utter importance of restaurant outreach, and she'll let us in on some current campaigns she's working on, and how you can get involved.

For our survey section, we asked the question: What's your favorite fall food? The results will not only surprise you, they'll also ground you.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Now I can look at you in peace; I don’t eat you anymore.” — Franz Kafka

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 44th episode of Our Hen House, featuring Mark Middleton and Ari Solomon.

In today’s episode, we will give you the low-down on two animal rights events we attended here in NYC — one having to do with false labeling, and the other centered all around vegan fashion. We’ll also update you on the pain and gain of our second 10-day juice fast.

Joining us today is Mark Middleton, creator of the stunning and incredibly informative website, Animal Visuals. Mark will talk to us all about the compelling visuals and interactive media he creates to expose the injustices of animal exploitation.

Ari Solomon reviews this film from an AR perspective.

For our review section, we will be joined for the first time by Our Hen House’s new Hollywood correspondent, Ari Solomon, who will review the film, How to Train Your Dragon, from an animal rights perspective.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“For the sake of a little flesh, we deprive them of sun, of light, of the duration of life to which they are entitled by birth and being.” – Plutarch

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 43rd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Gary Kowalski.

In today's episode, we will give you our full report on everything from the vegan Halloween party we attended last week, to our dog’s Halloween costume – which lasted all of 2 blocks, to all the wonder of NYC in fall. We’ll also tell you about our newest juice fast!

Joining us today as part of our recurring Religion Series is Gary Kowalski (check out his author’s page on Amazon, as well as his blog). Gary currently serves as the interim minister to the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and has written a number of best selling books on animals and spirituality. Gary will discuss with us how certain principles within Unitarian Universalism foster concern for other species, and how our spiritual beliefs can influence the way we treat animals – including through our diets.

tofuxpress.com

For our review section, we will share our experiences with the much-anticipated new device that is a must for every kitchen, the TofuXpress.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Teaching a child not to step on a caterpillar is as valuable to the child as it is to the caterpillar.” -Bradley Millar

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 42nd episode of Our Hen House, featuring Nancy Perry, Kyle Knies, and a super special surprise guest!

In today’s episode, which happens to coincide with both Jasmin’s 31st birthday and World Go Vegan Week, we bring you our vegan tales from NYC: We'll discuss the scrumptious grub that one NYC restaurant — Gustorganics — added in honor of Vegan Week. We’ll also talk about a novel Jasmin’s reading, Water for Elephants, that goes behind the scenes and into the cruel world of circuses. On the much sunnier side, in honor of Jasmin’s birthday, we will be joined by a very special surprise guest! Here’s a clue: She’s 86, recently went vegetarian, and her favorite nickname for Jasmin is “bubala.”

Also joining us today is longtime vegan and animal rights activist, the lovely Nancy Perry, who is the Vice President of Government Affairs for The Humane Society of the United States. Nancy will talk to us all about everything from the Farm Animal Stewardship Act, to the best vegan food in our nation's capital.

Kyle Knies reviews The Birds from an AR perspective

Then — just in time for Halloween — for our review section, we will be joined by Our Hen House's own reviewer, Kyle Knies, who will give you his take on Alfred Hitchcock's The Birds – from an animal rights perspective.

All that, vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language.” -Martin Buber

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

The (... More)

Welcome to the 41st episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dylan Powell.

In today's episode, as we settle back into life in NYC, we have loads to discuss — everything from last week's Texas State Veggie Fair, to a new anti-bully t-shirt that you have to own, to the controversial issue of animal hoarding.

The Vegan Police

Joining us today is the fascinating and inspiring Dylan Powell, from The Vegan Police. Dylan will talk to us about why his radio show was considered “too vegan” and why he subsequently moved on to podcasting. He’ll also discuss the wonders of campus outreach, the importance of academia as a way to help animals, and so much more. Dylan will be back to join us for our review section, where he will give us “Dylan's Totally Legit and Crucial Review of Independent Vegan Artists Who You Should Support Because They Would Support You.” (BONUS! Read on for Dylan’s top 10 list, and his favorite vegan donut recipe!)

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If one person is unkind to an animal, it is considered to be cruelty, but where a lot of people are unkind to animals, especially in the name of commerce, the cruelty is condoned, and, once large sums of money are at stake, will be defended to the last by otherwise intelligent people.” -Ruth Harrison

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

www.herbivoreclothing.com

Bonus! Corresponding with Dylan Powell’s music review (a.k.a. “Dylan's Totally Legit and Crucial Review of Independent Vegan Artists Who You Should Support Because They Would Support You”), here is his top 10 list of independent vegan bands! (Or listen to them here.)

10. Sports the Band

9. The Weakerthans

8. Lemuria

7. Burning Love

6. Adam Gnade

5. No Age

4. Harmony Trowbridge

3. Paul Baribeau

2. Propagandhi

1. Ted Leo

And as a second bonus, be sure to try Dylan’s favorite vegan donut recipe!

Welcome to the 40th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring guests Jamey Scott, Eddie Garza, and Julie Rothman.

In today’s episode, we come to you from Dallas, Texas, where Mariann is busy with her Animal Law Committee, and Jasmin is prancing around town trying to find the city’s best vegan hotspots. She didn’t have to look far: Turns out Dallas is home to a local Mercy for Animals chapter, Dallas Vegan Drinks, and a brand new event that will knock your socks off: The Texas State Veggie Fair! Lucky for us, Vegan Drinks and the Veggie Fair are both happening during our short trip, and we’ll give you the lowdown on those.

Julie Rothman, Jamey Scott, Jasmin Singer, Mariann Sullivan, and Eddie Garza at The Spiral Diner in Dallas

Joining us today is Jamey Scott, the creator of Dallas Vegan Drinks and the Texas State Veggie Fair, and the man currently behind DallasVegan.com. Jamey will tell us all about animal activism and the vegan scene down here in Dallas.

For our review section, we will give you the scoop on The Spiral Diner, a 100% vegan diner with two locations in the Dallas area. Joining us for our review are some very special friends — Jamey Scott, as well as Eddie Garza and Julie Rothman from Mercy for Animals here in Dallas. Eddie will also give us the vegan skinny on food activism in Texas. As a bonus review — since we simply could not resist — we will also be reviewing a raw vegan cafe in Dallas, appropriately called Bliss.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“If beef is your idea of ‘real food for real people,’ you’d better live real close to a real good hospital.” -Dr. Neal Barnard

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Nachos Supreme from The Spiral Diner

California Raw Pizza, Bliss Cafe

Welcome to the 39th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring David Wolfson.

In today's episode, we will report back from our much anticipated launch party for Our Hen House, where our speakers wowed us, the food impressed us, and the crowd – which delighted us – spilled out onto the sidewalk! We'll also give you an exciting update about our TimeOut New York article, and we'll express our thoughts on why people to need to share the love with Ellen DeGeneres, even if they don't think she's perfect.

Our Hen House Launch. Photo by Jessica Mahady

Joining us today is animal rights lawyer, David Wolfson, who is a partner in the Global Corporate Group at Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy. David has some exciting news for us regarding undergraduate academia that you won’t want to miss.

For our review section, we will talk fast food – vegan fast food, of course.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week's news items include:

“We are called to be architects of the future, not its victims.” -R. Buckminister Fuller

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 38th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Veggie Conquest’s Jessica Mahady.

In today's episode, we will share with you the exciting news about our feature in Time Out New York; we’ll tell you Mariann's impetus for proclaiming that we shouldn't spend more than $60 in garlic (!); we'll give you our vegan take on the quaint town of Saugerties, NY; and Mariann will report on how her two animal law teleconferences went.

Courtesy Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary

Joining us today is Jessica Mahady, creator of the hugely popular amateur vegan cooking contest, Veggie Conquest. Jessica will tell us all about how Veggie Conquest grew from a seed of an idea into a phenomenon that sells out within 10 minutes of tickets going on sale.

For our review section, we will give you our take on the Top 5 Stupidest Named Vegan Foods.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“A man can live and be healthy without killing animals for food; therefore, if he eats meat, he participates in taking animal life merely for the sake of his appetite.” -Leo Tolstoy

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Both photos used in this blog entry are courtesy Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary.

Welcome to the 37th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring VegNews’ publishers, Joe Connelly and Colleen Holland.

In today’s episode, we will give you the low-down on the joy of our new, one-of-a-kind, vegan-produced tote-bags; the horrors of the animal exploitation at the San Genarro Feast here in NYC; and the story of a little pigeon on Prince Street who tugged at Jasmin’s heartstrings and re-routed her afternoon.

VegNews Magazine

Joining us today are vegan power couple, Joe Connelly and Colleen Holland, publishers of the uber-popular VegNews Magazine. Colleen and Joe will talk to us all about the high points of the past 10 years — since VegNews’ conception — including favorite interviews, the changing face of the vegan food movement, and advice for young writers and future business owners who want to incorporate the animal rights message into their profession.

For our review section, we will be joined by actress and foodie blogger, Lynn Chen, of The Actor’s Diet, who will give us the non-vegan’s take on the greatest vegan cookies around.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news item include:

“Humanity’s true moral test, its fundamental test…consists of its attitude towards those who are at its mercy: animals. And in this respect humankind has suffered a fundamental debacle, a debacle so fundamental that all others stem from it.” -Milan Kundera, The Unbearable Lightness of Being

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don’t forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 36th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Peter Singer.

In today's episode, we'll give you the low-down on why Jasmin was telling a theatre full of perfect strangers all about her adolescent secrets; we'll discuss Lady Gag-Gag's recent venture into the dark side (and how some animal activists are fighting back); and we'll tell you about a protest that Jasmin filmed for PETA earlier this week.

Peter Singer

Joining us today is the illustrious Peter Singer – of no relation to Jasmin, by the way. Peter – who is perhaps the greatest philospher of our time — will give us his thoughts on why animals are important,  how he feels about rights for certain species (such as the Great Ape protections in Spain), and give us his take on in-vitro meat. You absolutely won't want to miss this exclusive interview with the man who shaped the animal rights movement as we know it.

For the unscientific, unofficial Facebook survey portion of our show, we'll be begging the question: What do you think is the most effective tool for inspiring people to go vegan? The results may surprise you.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“From an ethical point of view, we all stand on equal footing – whether we stand on two feet, or four, or none at all.” -Peter Singer

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Photo (... More)

Welcome to the 35th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary Director and Co-founder, Jenny Brown.

In today's episode, as we prepare to come off of a 10-day juice fast, we will bring you our report from life in our vegan utopia. We'll also chat about vlogging – perhaps as a means of activism.

Photo by Derek Goodwin, courtesy of Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary

Joining us today is none other than the illustrious Jenny Brown, co-founder and director of Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary. Jenny will talk to us all about sanctuary life, including what originally prompted her to go that route, what it's like to rescue and rehabilitate farmed animals, and some star-studded upcoming events at Woodstock Sanctuary.

For the unscientific, unofficial Facebook survey portion of our show, we'll be sticking with the sanctuary theme and sharing with you some special stories of different ways people have been touched during sanctuary visits.

We'll also be announcing the winner of last week's contest to win a free copy of the novel, The Tourist Trail, by John Yunker. (And stay tuned for an upcoming review of the book in the next few days — with yet another free giveaway!)

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, tons of current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“Our task must be to free ourselves…by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature and its beauty.” -Albert Einstein

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Both photos — the one at the top of the blog as well as the one within in it — courtesy of Woodstock Farm Animal Sanctuary and taken by Derek Goodwin. The photo at the top of the blog shows Jenny Brown (the human) with Nemo (the pig), and the one in the middle of the blog shows Andy the Steer.

The Tourist Trail by John (... More)

Welcome to the 34th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring author John Yunker.

Today, as we enter our fourth day of juice fasting, you’ll hear about our kale and carrot woes, our dreams of seitan piccata, and our determination to get through our 10-day fast… or, feast.

The Tourist Trail by John Yunker

Joining us today is John Yunker, author of the new novel, The Tourist Trail. John will talk to us all about his animal rights-themed novel, the importance of fiction as a means of advocacy, and how his experience volunteering with The Penguin Project influenced his book. You’ll have the opportunity to win a copy of The Tourist Trail, so be sure to listen closely.*

Following that, we’ll keep our juice theme going strong as we discuss the results from our Facebook survey which asked you what your favorite juices and smoothies are.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“A Robin Redbreast in a Cage Puts all Heaven in a Rage.” -William Blake

*Contest: Specific instructions to win a copy of The Tourist Trail by John Yunker can be found on this podcast episode. To enter, email info (at) ourhenhouse.org and note that you are entering this drawing. You must include your full name and full mailing address or your entry won’t be considered. Only one entry per household please. In order to be considered, you must enter no later than midnight on Wednesday, September 8, 2010. Winners will be announced on our podcast episode next week (September 11, 2010). The winner will be selected by a random drawing. Please note that we received a free copy of The Tourist Trail for review — as well as giveaway copies — sent by the author. No goods or services were exchanged for the books.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Photo at top of blog from The Penguin Project

Welcome to episode 33rd podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Steven M. Wise.

Today, we're back home in NYC. Mariann's animal law classes have started, and Jasmin has given up coffee. We also have some exciting announcements from here in Our Hen House!

Joining us today is long-time animal law guru, Steve Wise, who will talk to us all about the Non-Human Rights Project.

Henrietta by David Mamet, Illustrated by Elizabeth Dahlie

In our review section, we'll be reviewing the book Henrietta, by David Mamet – which follows the story of a pig who wants to go to law school.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The question is not, “Can they reason?” nor, “Can they talk?” but rather, “Can they suffer?” -Jeremy Bentham

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Picture from Henrietta by David Mamet, Illustrated by Elizabeth Dahlie

Welcome to the 32nd podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Carter Dillard.

On today's episode, we come to you from Sag Harbor, where we're grateful that we have family right by the beach. Joining us today is animal rights lawyer Carter Dillard, who will talk to us about everything from the organization he co-founded – Four Feet Forward — to litigating on behalf of animals, to human overpopulation.

In our review section, we'll be discussing a new animal rights themed novel called The Tourist Trail, by John Yunker. If you're like us, you'll want to eat this book up, which is fine, since it's vegan.

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“The squirrel that you kill in jest, dies in earnest.” -Henry David Thoreau

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Photo: The Tourist Trail

Welcome to the 31st podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring David Cassuto.

On today's episode, we come to you from Big Sur, California where we are searching for good food, breathless from the scenery, and trying to weed out an offensive word from Jasmin's vocabulary.

Joining us today is animal and environmental lawyer, David Cassuto, who will talk to us about some of the intersections between those overlapping areas.

In our review section, Kyle Knies – a California boy himself – will give us the skinny on faux gras (and we really mean faux gras).

All that, some vegan banter, and of course, current events from the world of animal rights.

This week’s news items include:

“California, California… such a wonder that I think I'll stay in bed.” –Rufus Wainwright

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 30th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Zoe Weil.

In today's episode, we come to you from the City by the Bay, San Francisco. We'll start by telling you about our vegan adventures and misadventures, including some a tale of delicious cruelty-free Japanese food, and a rather disturbing  stuffed animal story.

We will be joined today by Zoe Weil from the Institute for Humane Education. Zoe, who was just inducted into the Animal Rights Hall of Fame, will talk all about humane education, as well as what it really means to do the most good and least harm.

In our news section, we will tell you about a group of cattlemen who are having some issues with a recent audit of their spending.  We'll also discuss why conflicted meat-eaters deny that animals have the capacity to suffer. And we'll discuss the vegan fare at Chelsea Clinton's wedding.

In our review section, we will give you our impressions of the new film, Chow Down, which follows three people with severe heart disease who have decided to make some serious and necessary lifestyle changes. And trust me, you'll be batting for them.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Photo: Used with permission (http2007) through a Creative Commons License.

“We have enslaved the rest of the animal creation, and have treated our distant cousins in fur and feathers so badly that beyond doubt, if they were able to formulate a religion, they would depict the Devil in human form.” -William Ralph Inge

In today's episode, we will tell you about our upcoming vegan filled trip to the West Coast, some new one-of-a-kind arty tote bags that will benefit Our Hen House, and lots more about what's new and good here in Veganland.

Joining us today will be best-selling vegan cookbook author, Isa Chandra Moskowitz. Isa will talk about everything from her upcoming book, to the changing scene of veganism, to palm oil.

In our news section, we're talking about a lot of bull – bullfighting in Catalonia, and bull-riding and other rodeo horrors in Santa Cruz. Plus, we'll tell you about a cool new movie that’s full of heart.

In our review section, we will give you our thoughts on a blast-from-the-past animated film with a message – Chicken Run.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Photo: Chicken Run

Welcome to our 28th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Michael Croland from heeb’n'vegan, with cameos by Jasmin’s grandma and mother.

In today's episode, we give you the low-down on a very special vegan bakery that delivers all over the country. Trust me, you'll want to try their cupcakes. I'll also tell you all about a very melodic animal rights fund-raiser that I attended in NYC.

Joining us today is Michael Croland, from Heeb’n'vegan. Michael is joining us as part of our religion series, where we talk with people about how their religion or spirituality relates to their philosophy on animal rights. Michael will enlighten us about how Judaism and veganism relate. He'll discuss everything from Kosher slaughter, to philosophy, to an ingredient you simply have to include in your next tofu scramble.

In our news section, we will discuss a new bill for animals that just passed the US House of Representatives. We'll also talk about a debarking law in Massachusetts, and Mariann will share her thoughts on an article in Time Magazine that asks: Can animal rights go too far?

For our review section, Mariann and I will share with you an amazing restaurant experience we had, right in the Heartland.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 27th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring Dr. Melanie Joy, and with Kyle Knies, as well as Jasmin’s grandma.

On today's episode, we are coming to you live from Kansas – where we will talk to my 86-year-old grandmother who just went vegetarian.

Then, joining us will be Dr. Melanie Joy, author of Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows: An Introduction to Carnism. Melanie will talk to us about her fascinating insights  into the psychological mechanisms people use to allow themselves to coninue eating animals.

In our news section, we will discuss an exciting New York Times editorial that is very pro-farm animal. We'll also talk about some good news for the AETA 4, and we'll share with you James McWilliams' take on lab-grown meat.

In our review section, Our Hen House reviewer, Kyle Knies, will give you the results of his unscientific survey on vegan milks.

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!

Welcome to the 26th podcast episode of Our Hen House, featuring an interview with Meena Alagappan of HEART, with special guests Stewart David (Carolina Action for Animals) and Matt Rice (Mercy for Animals).

On today’s show, we begin with a very exciting announcement about the influence that Mariann’s New York Times letter to the editor had on Jasmin’s grandma.

Joining us today is Meena Alagappan — director of HEART (Humane Education Advocates Reaching Teachers). Meena will talk to us all about the importance of humane education as a means of creating social change, and she’ll share some of her personal journey from animal law to running HEART.

In our news section, we will be joined by Stewart David, co-founder of Carolina Action for Animals. Stewart will share his thoughts on Jane Velez-Mitchell’s “Jane’s Fight for Animal Rights” which aired this past week on her CNN HLN show, Issues With Jane Velez-Mitchell. We’ll also discuss the outcome of a puppy mill bill in North Carolina, and an egg bill in California.

For our review section, we will be joined by special guest Matt Rice — of Mercy for Animals. Matt will review the new animal rights Facebook game called Farm Rescue, which was conceived by activist and artist, Mark Middleton (of Animal Visuals).

You can listen to our podcast directly on our blog (below!) or you can subscribe on iTunes. Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it on iTunes, and don't forget to leave us a friendly comment! Thanks!