Human Animals
Welcome to Human Animals, the podcast that dives deep into the fascinating, complex, and often surprising relationship between humans and animals. From our shared lives with animals, cultural connections and experiences to the unique ways animals shape our lives today, each episode takes you on a journey through the worlds of both human and non-human creatures. Through powerful storytelling, expert interviews, and eye-opening experiences, we explore everything from the bonds we form with our pets, to the ethical dilemmas surrounding wildlife conservation, animal welfare and rescue, and the roles animals play in our daily lives. Human Animals invites listeners to rethink the boundaries between us and the animal kingdom, shedding light on the ways we coexist, impact, and are influenced by the creatures we share our planet with. Join us as we explore the unspoken connections, and challenge the ways we see ourselves as part of the greater animal kingdom. Whether you're a passionate animal lover or just curious about the world around you, Human Animals is your invitation to reconnect with the creatures that make the world a more vibrant and connected place.
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Rescue, Boundaries & Llama Camp Talk with Maddie Johnson
05/21/2025
Rescue, Boundaries & Llama Camp Talk with Maddie Johnson
EP#08 | In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, Emma reconnects with her longtime friend and powerhouse rescuer, Maddie Johnson. Together, they dive into Maddie's wild world of solo animal rescue—from chaotic piglet arrivals to rehabilitating orphaned llamas—all from the comfort (and chaos) of her own home. Maddie opens up about the emotional toll of rescue work, the importance of saying "no," and how her large social media following is both a blessing and a burden. The two reflect on their craziest rescue adventures—including road-tripping to save alpacas, water buffalo, and a runaway zebra-striped horse—and how they manage compassion fatigue while sharing it all online. Whether you’re an aspiring rescuer, a long-time follower, or just love a good animal story, this episode blends gritty reality with tender moments and will leave you laughing, reflecting, and maybe even crying. About the Guest: Maddie Johnson, Animal Rescuer & Advocate Maddie is a full-time animal rescuer who has saved hundreds of animals—including pigs, dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, and llamas—right out of her home. Her work has been featured widely on social media, where she shares educational and emotionally resonant content about animal rescue, ethical consumption, and boundaries in compassionate care. Lesson Takeaways: 1. You can’t save everyone—and that’s okay. Focus on the lives you do change. 2. Saying no is crucial to avoiding burnout and sustaining long-term rescue work. 3. Sharing rescue stories online can amplify impact—but requires emotional boundaries. 4. Donation fatigue is real; platforms like Patreon offer sustainable support. 5. Animals teach us what they want—we just have to listen (even if it means letting go). 6. Goodbyes can be the most selfless act of love in rescue. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 06:00 - How Emma adopted Brian from Maddie—and started her own path 15:00 - Chaos of solo rescue and learning by doing 24:00 - Social media pressures and the cost of “yes” 34:00 - The heartbreak of dairy calves and power of sharing their stories 45:00 - Financial realities of rescue, Patreon, and donation fatigue 55:00 - Balancing public and private life as a rescuer online 01:04:00 - Road tripping with llamas, pigs, alpacas, and... zebras? 01:20:00 - Letting animals go: When love means finding a better home 01:30:00 - Adventures with horses, ethical decisions, and emotional closure Resources: Living with Pickles on Instagram: Living with Pickles on Facebook: Living with Pickles Website: Living with Pickles on YouTube: Mikko’s Choice: Human Animal’s Podcast YouTube:
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Animal Soulmates & Pig Welfare with Dr. Abbie Viscardi
05/08/2025
Animal Soulmates & Pig Welfare with Dr. Abbie Viscardi
EP#07 | This episode is all about exploring the deep connections we share with animals and the ethical challenges in commercial pig farming with Dr. Abbie Viscardi., a PhD in animal welfare and host of the Animal Soulmates podcast. Dr. Abbie shares the touching story of her soulmate dog, Amira, a black lab she raised as a guide dog puppy before adopting her back. Their bond highlights the profound impact animals have on our lives, offering stability, love, and companionship through life’s toughest moments. The conversation then shifts to Dr. Abbie’s work in animal welfare, focusing on pain management for commercial pigs. She sheds light on the grim realities of industrial pig farming, including surgical castration without anesthesia, tail docking, and the psychological toll of barren environments. Dr. Abbie emphasizes the power of consumer choices in driving ethical change and offers practical steps for making more compassionate food decisions. Whether you’re an animal lover, a pet owner, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode will inspire reflection on our relationships with animals and the systems that shape their lives. About the Guest: Dr. Abbie Viscardi, Animal Welfare Scientist & Host of Animal Soulmates Dr. Abbie holds a PhD in animal welfare and specializes in pain management for commercial pigs. Her research focuses on improving the lives of livestock while navigating the complexities of industrial farming systems. She is also the host of the Animal Soulmates podcast, where she explores the deep, often spiritual connections between humans and animals. Lesson Takeaways: 1. The bond between humans and animals can be transformative, offering emotional support and stability through life’s challenges. 2. As pet owners, we must honor the commitment we make to our animals—they didn’t choose us; we chose them. 3. Many pigs in commercial systems endure painful procedures (e.g., castration, tail docking) without pain relief due to lack of FDA-approved options. 4. Small changes in purchasing habits (e.g., choosing ethically sourced meat, reducing consumption) can drive industry-wide improvements. 5. Sharing facts about animal welfare—without sensationalism—can inspire meaningful change. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 02:00 - Dr. Abbie’s story of raising and adopting her soulmate dog, Amira 10:00 - The emoional toll of returning Amira to the guide dog program 20:00 - How Amira supported Dr. Abbie through life’s challenges 30:00 - Transition to Dr. Abbie’s work in pig welfare 40:00 - The grim realities of commercial pig farming (castration, tail docking, barren environments) 50:00 - Why pain management for livestock is overlooked—and how to fix it 60:00 - The role of consumers in driving ethical change 70:00 - Small steps for making more compassionate food choices 80:00 - Final thoughts on honoring our connections with animals Resources: Animal Soulmates (Find it on your favorite platform): Check Dr. Abbie on LinkedIn: ButcherBox Ethical Meat Subscription: Mikko’s Choice: Human Animal’s Podcast YouTube:
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Animal Communication with Sue Hopple
04/17/2025
Animal Communication with Sue Hopple
EP#06 | In this fascinating episode, Emma sits down with Sue Hopple, a gifted animal communicator, to explore the deep and often mysterious connections between humans and animals. Sue shares her lifelong ability to communicate with animals telepathically, offering insights into their thoughts, emotions, and past experiences. From her earliest memories of hearing animals as a child to her professional work helping pet owners understand their companions, Sue’s stories are both enlightening and heartwarming. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this conversation will challenge your perceptions and deepen your appreciation for the bonds we share with animals. About the Guest: Sue Hopple, Animal Communicator Sue Hopple has been communicating with animals since she was a child, discovering her unique gift at just four years old. With decades of experience, she helps pet owners understand their animals’ needs, behaviors, and emotions through telepathic communication. Sue’s work has provided clarity and healing for countless animals and their humans, offering a bridge between species that fosters deeper connections. She emphasizes the importance of listening, intuition, and respecting animals as sentient beings with their own perspectives. Lesson Takeaways: 1. Animals communicate telepathically through feelings, images, and brief messages. 2. Listening to animals can transform your relationship with them. 3. Trauma and past experiences shape animal behavior, just as they do for humans. 4. Soul connections exist between humans and animals, often spanning lifetimes. 5. Trusting your intuition can deepen your bond with your pets. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 02:0 - Sue’s childhood experiences hearing animals 06:00 - How Sue’s parents reacted to her abilities 10:00 - The role of intuition and quieting the mind in animal communication 15:00 - How animals share their past traumas and preferences 20:00 - The concept of soulmates between humans and animals 25:00 - Sue’s work with lost and rescued animals 30:00 - How animals perceive humans and their roles 35:00 - The challenges of interpreting animal messages accurately 40:00 - Stories of animals helping Sue refine her skills 45:00 - The impact of technology on human intuition 50:00 - How animals assist in healing and personal growth 55:00 - Final thoughts on the power of listening to animals Quotes: Sue Hopple: "Animals are so forgiving. They stay positive even when life hasn’t been kind to them." Emma Davis: "When Sue told me Mikko and I were soulmates, it made so much sense—like our connection was deeper than just this life." Sue Hopple: "We all have the ability to communicate with animals. It’s not magic; it’s just listening." Resources: Sue Hopple’s website: Check Sue on Facebook: Mikko’s Choice: Human Animal’s Podcast YouTube: Kinship With All Life by J. Allen Boone:
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Rescuing America's Wild Horses with Clare Staples
03/04/2025
Rescuing America's Wild Horses with Clare Staples
EP#05 | Meet Clare Staples, founder of SkyDog Sanctuary, a refuge for wild mustangs and donkeys rescued from neglect, abuse, and the slaughter pipeline. In this episode, Emma and Clare discuss the emotional intelligence of wild horses, the challenges of running a large-scale rescue, and the evolving ethics of horse training and riding. Clare shares her personal journey from the entertainment industry to full-time rescue work, highlighting the resilience of these incredible animals. Whether you’re passionate about horse welfare or just curious about the deep connections between humans and animals, this episode is full of insight and inspiration. About the Guest: Clare Staples, Founder of SkyDog Sanctuary Clare Staples is the founder of SkyDog Sanctuary, a 9,000-acre refuge dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating wild mustangs and donkeys. She is a passionate advocate for equine welfare and has dedicated her life to protecting America's wild horses. With a hands-on approach, Clare and her team work tirelessly to provide a second chance for animals that have suffered abuse, neglect, or displacement. Beyond rescue work, Clare leverages social media to raise awareness about wild horse protection and inspire positive change. About the Animals: Wild mustangs and donkeys are resilient, intelligent herd animals that thrive in their natural environments. Many captured mustangs face an uncertain fate, often ending up in the slaughter pipeline or suffering from inhumane training practices. SkyDog Sanctuary provides a safe haven where these animals can return to a more natural existence, forming strong bonds and regaining their independence. The stories of these rescues highlight the importance of ethical treatment and advocacy for wild horses in America. Lesson Takeaways: Wild horses have extraordinary emotional intelligence and resilience. Rescue work requires deep commitment, teamwork, and emotional strength. Ethical training and gentling methods can make a significant difference in a horse's well-being. SkyDog Sanctuary provides a safe, natural environment for rescued mustangs to thrive. Advocacy and education are crucial in protecting wild horses from slaughter and mistreatment. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction to Clare Staples and SkyDog Sanctuary [00:02:00] How Clare’s perspective on horses changed over time [00:06:00] The rescue story of Pete, the zebra-horse hybrid [00:10:00] Wild horses' trauma, emotional intelligence, and healing [00:15:00] Ethical considerations in horse training and riding [00:20:00] Clare’s shift in perspective on rodeos and equine welfare [00:25:00] The challenges of running a large-scale horse rescue operation [00:30:00] The role of social media in advocacy and fundraising [00:35:00] Handling criticism and misconceptions in the rescue world [00:40:00] The healing power of working with horses [00:45:00] Why zebras and hybrids shouldn't be kept as pets [00:50:00] The impact of advocacy in protecting America’s wild horses [00:55:00] Final thoughts on the future of SkyDog Sanctuary and wild horse rescue Quotes: Clare Staples: "Horses know. They can feel your energy and your intentions." Emma Davis: "I don’t worry about Pete at all now. He’s exactly where he needs to be." Clare Staples: "Every animal is different. Some will always want to be wild. And we have to honor that." Clare Staples: "A bright light attracts moths and bugs. You have to keep shining anyway." Resources: Website
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Building Trust with Horses & Ourselves with Taylor Tatum
02/14/2025
Building Trust with Horses & Ourselves with Taylor Tatum
EP#04 | Meet Taylor Tatum, a backcountry trail-riding-focused horse trainer, believes in laying strong foundations in the arena to ensure success on the trail. In this episode, Emma and Taylor discuss the deep connection between humans and horses, how equine-facilitated mental health (EFMH) is changing therapy, and the parallels between horse and human psychology. Taylor shares insights on herd dynamics, the importance of trust and leadership, and how working with horses can help individuals recognize their own emotional patterns. Whether you’re a horse enthusiast or simply curious about the therapeutic power of animals, this episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration. About the Guest: Taylor Tatum, Horse Trainer & Equine-Facilitated Mental Health Specialist Taylor Tatum is a horse trainer specializing in backcountry trail riding and equine-facilitated mental health (EFMH). With a deep understanding of equine behavior, she uses gentle, empathetic methods to build trust and clear communication between horses and humans. She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Clinical Counseling, specializing in equine-assisted therapy, and is passionate about using horses to help others heal. Outside of training, Taylor enjoys exploring the wilderness on horseback, photography, videography, and sharing her journey as a western lifestyle and wellness influencer. About the Animals: Horses are intelligent, social herd animals that rely on trust and leadership for survival. Their ability to mirror human emotions makes them powerful partners in therapy, helping people recognize stress, anxiety, and emotional patterns. Equine-facilitated mental health (EFMH) leverages this connection, allowing individuals to process emotions through mindful interaction with horses. Episode Takeaways: Horses reflect human emotions and behaviors, making them powerful partners in therapy. Observing herd dynamics can reveal insights into human social interactions and leadership. Equine-facilitated mental health (EFMH) helps individuals recognize anxiety, boundaries, and self-awareness. Rescue horses in therapy: The debate around using trauma-affected horses in mental health work. Trust-building and leadership in horsemanship have direct parallels to personal growth. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction to Taylor Tatum and her journey in horsemanship [00:02:00] How Emma and Taylor met through Mikko’s Choice CBD products [00:05:00] Rescuing Ruger: Taylor’s first horse and its impact on her career [00:09:00] Understanding horse psychology and training reactive horses [00:14:00] Rehoming vs. keeping horses: The emotional complexities [00:24:00] Equine-facilitated mental health: How horses help humans heal [00:29:00] The importance of mindfulness and boundaries in working with horses [00:38:00] Leadership, trust, and human-horse relationships in therapy [00:46:00] The controversy around using rescue horses in equine therapy [00:56:00] How horses help people understand their emotions and body awareness Quotes “Horses are social herd animals. They’re designed to be in connection. You could argue the same thing about humans.” – Taylor Tatum “If you can practice asking for what you need in a safe environment with a horse, it becomes easier in everyday life.” – Taylor Tatum “Every horse has a different personality. Some engage, some don’t—just like people.” – Emma Davis “When a horse reacts, it’s not personal—it’s about survival. Understanding that can change how we approach our own fears and anxieties.” – Emma Davis Resources:
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Big Cats and Their Stories with Kate Vannelli
01/23/2025
Big Cats and Their Stories with Kate Vannelli
EP#03 | Meet Kate Vannelli, conservationist and world traveler, currently leading the Living With Big Cats initiative for the World Wildlife Fund. In this episode, Kate shares her experiences working with big cats across the globe, from Namibia to the Himalayas and Tanzania. Listen to stories of cheetah conservation, snow leopard ecotourism, and the cultural and emotional connections humans have with apex predators. Kate and Emma discuss human-wildlife conflict, the impact of policy, and how animals like P-22, the famed Hollywood mountain lion, inspire global efforts for coexistence. About the Guest: Kate Vannelli, Conservationist and WWF Program Lead Kate Vannelli’s conservation journey spans continents, focusing on big cats like jaguars, lions, and snow leopards. She holds degrees in Environmental Science and Conservation & Rural Development and has worked with renowned organizations, including the Cheetah Conservation Fund and Snow Leopard Conservancy India Trust. Kate is passionate about addressing human-wildlife conflict, promoting sustainable ecotourism, and connecting people to nature through her art and advocacy. About the Animals: Big cats—jaguars, lions, leopards, snow leopards, and cheetahs—are apex predators that play an essential role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. These majestic creatures are more than icons of the wild; they are symbols of resilience, coexistence, and the challenges of conservation. Episode Takeaways: Human-wildlife conflict is a global issue that requires nuanced, culturally sensitive solutions. Big cats like P-22 symbolize our connection to nature and inspire policy changes for coexistence. Ecotourism and community-based conservation initiatives foster tolerance and support wildlife protection. Collaboration between governments, NGOs, and local communities is essential for effective conservation strategies. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction to Human Animals and Kate Vannelli [00:01:00] Kate’s journey into conservation and her passion for big cats [00:05:00] The fascinating story of P-22 and its impact on wildlife policy [00:08:00] Examining human tolerance for big cats across cultures [00:14:00] Snow leopard ecotourism and community-driven conservation [00:19:00] Strategies for managing human-wildlife conflict [00:24:00] The importance of predator-prey dynamics in healthy ecosystems [00:36:00] Ethical challenges in wildlife trade and exotic animal ownership [00:50:00] Reflections on zoos, ecotourism, and human-nature relationships [01:03:00] Fun fact: The mysterious “prickle” in a lion’s tail tuft Quotes "Whether we like it or not, we have an emotional and spiritual connection with big cats.” – Kate Vannelli “P-22’s story shows how one mountain lion can ripple through policy and inspire coexistence.” – Kate Vannelli “If you’re part of a landscape with predators, you’re part of something bigger.” – Kate Vannelli “Our relationship with the world around us is what makes us human.” – Kate Vannelli Resources:
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Humane Hatcheries and the Secret Lives of Chickens with Francesca Duvall
01/22/2025
Humane Hatcheries and the Secret Lives of Chickens with Francesca Duvall
EP#02 | Meet Francesca Duvall, founder of Alchemist Farm, the world’s first humane chicken hatchery. In this episode, Emma and Francesca discuss ethical practices in chicken farming, innovative solutions to industry challenges, and the surprising intelligence and personality of chickens. Learn how regenerative farming can transform soil health, reduce food waste, and reconnect us to the land. Francesca shares her journey of building a zero-waste, solar-powered farm and offers actionable insights for anyone interested in sustainable living or backyard chicken keeping. About the Guest: Francesca Duvall, Founder of Alchemist Farm Francesca Duvall is a pioneer in humane chicken farming, operating Alchemist Farm in Northern California. Her hatchery is powered entirely by solar energy, uses biodegradable packaging, and emphasizes ethical treatment of chickens. She also educates others through online classes, social media, and monthly live video chats, inspiring a new generation of chicken keepers to embrace sustainability and humane farming. About the Animals: Chickens are remarkable creatures known for their intelligence, adaptability, and contributions to agriculture. Beyond providing eggs, they play a crucial role in regenerative farming by enriching soil and reducing food waste. With over 30 unique vocalizations and distinct personalities, chickens are fascinating animals that connect us to nature in profound ways. Episode Takeaways: Ethical farming practices can challenge and transform the chicken industry. Regenerative farming with chickens enriches soil, promotes biodiversity, and reduces dependence on synthetic fertilizers. Chickens are intelligent, social creatures that enrich human lives and mental well-being. The chicken industry faces ethical challenges, such as the treatment of male chicks and misleading marketing practices. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction to Francesca Duvall and Alchemist Farm [00:01:30] The vision and ethics behind humane chicken hatcheries [00:08:00] Industry challenges: male chick euthanasia and warehouse farming [00:15:00] Exploring regenerative farming and rotational grazing with chickens [00:25:00] Chicken intelligence, personality, and the human-chicken bond [00:35:00] How backyard chicken keeping reduces food waste and improves well-being [00:45:00] The power of ethical consumer choices in reshaping food systems [00:55:00] Fun facts: Chicken neck anatomy, gender determination, and unihemispheric sleep Quotes “Chickens give us so much with so little—they’re the perfect gateway animal to sustainability.” – Francesca Duvall “Cage-free doesn’t mean what most people think. True transparency is key to ethical farming.” – Francesca Duvall “Every action we take on the farm is about respecting the natural world and each other.” – Francesca Duvall Resources:
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Pigs, Empathy, and the Meaning of Home with Autumn Whitacre
01/22/2025
Pigs, Empathy, and the Meaning of Home with Autumn Whitacre
EP#01 | Meet Autumn Whitacre, the passionate founder of Autumn's Acres, a mini pet pig homestead in Ohio. In this heartwarming episode, Autumn shares her journey from pig lover to educator, her life on a homestead, and the special bond her family has with their animals. From raising pigs to educating others about their care, Autumn's insights reveal the deeper connection between humans and animals. Join us as we explore life lessons, pig behavior, and the joy animals bring to our lives. About the Guest: Autumn Whitacre, Founder of Autumn's Acres, Mini Pet Pigs Autumn Whitacre runs a homestead in Ohio, raising pigs, goats, chickens, and a milk cow with her husband and two sons. Known for her passion for educating others about pig care and behavior, Autumn is also the host of The Pet Pig Podcast. Her mission is to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for pigs while supporting pig owners in creating happy, healthy environments for their pets. About the Animals:At Autumn's Acres, the animals are more than just livestock—they're family. Pigs take center stage, and each one plays a role in the farm’s educational outreach. Autumn's pigs showcase their intelligence, sensitivity, and unique personalities, captivating visitors and teaching valuable lessons about connection and empathy. Episode Takeaways: The privilege of raising animals can deeply enrich your life. Animals, especially pigs, require understanding, patience, and a nurturing environment. Homesteading teaches responsibility, empathy, and a connection to nature. Building intentional relationships with animals brings immense joy and fulfillment. Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction and the calming presence of animals. [00:01:00] Guest introduction: Autumn Whitacre and her passion for pigs. [00:05:00] Autumn’s first pig, Oscar, and the lessons learned. [00:09:00] Starting Autumn's Acres: From passion to purpose. [00:14:00] Raising children on a homestead and teaching empathy. [00:19:00] The family dynamic: Roles and responsibilities on the farm. [00:30:00] Emotional intelligence in animals: Lessons from Lucy the milk cow. [00:36:00] Farm tours: Transformative experiences for visitors. [00:44:00] Reflections on intentional living and lessons from COVID. [00:56:00] Autumn’s ethical approach to pig breeding and education. [01:03:00] Closing thoughts and fun facts about pigs. Quotes “Animals to me are a gift. If you have the privilege of raising them, your life is better.” – Autumn Whitacre “The fact that I get to make people's dreams come true by sharing these incredible animals is amazing.” – Autumn Whitacre “Attitude is key. It rubs off on your kids, your animals, and the people around you.” – Autumn Whitacre Resources:
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