Better Life for Animals
Better Life for Animals is your go-to podcast for powerful stories from animal sanctuaries, vegan activists, and animal welfare changemakers. Each episode dives into real-life journeys of rescuing farmed animals, building compassionate communities, and living a cruelty-free, plant-based lifestyle. Hosted by animal advocate Cheryl Moss, the show highlights how rescue sanctuaries across the globe give abused and abandoned animals a second chance at life. You’ll hear from nonprofit founders, vegan thought leaders, and animal rights experts who are creating a better world—one animal at a time. Whether you're passionate about ethical living, run a small sanctuary, or simply want to support animal rescue efforts, this podcast will inspire and empower you to take action. Tune in and discover how you can help create a better life for animals everywhere.
info_outline
015: Giving Animals Agency, A New Model for Sanctuary Ethics with Marc Bekoff
06/02/2025
015: Giving Animals Agency, A New Model for Sanctuary Ethics with Marc Bekoff
Why are 95 percent of dogs used in U.S. biomedical research purpose-bred beagles? And what does this reveal about our relationship with animals? In this compelling episode of Better Life for Animals, host Cheryl Moss sits down with renowned ethologist Marc Bekoff, PhD—author, activist, and longtime collaborator with Jane Goodall—to explore how society must shift from outdated ideas of animal welfare to a model rooted in well-being, agency, and compassion. Dr. Bekoff shares powerful insights on: Why “welfare” often justifies suffering—and what true well-being requires How sanctuaries can restore dignity through freedom and choice The role of dogs as a gateway to expanding empathy for all species The unseen emotional toll of wildlife reintroduction programs Why language matters when advocating for animals The future of compassionate conservation, where every individual counts From redefining how we view captivity—even in our homes—to inspiring the next generation of changemakers, this conversation offers a hopeful, urgent call to action. Tune in and discover how a shift in mindset can lead to a better life for all animals—and ourselves.
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36818800
info_outline
014: From Childhood Dream to Lifesaving Mission: Shelley Britenbucher’s Journey with Shangri-La Farm Sanctuary
05/26/2025
014: From Childhood Dream to Lifesaving Mission: Shelley Britenbucher’s Journey with Shangri-La Farm Sanctuary
From the moment Shelley Britenbucher stood up in her school classroom in the 1970s and declared, “I’m going to start a farm sanctuary when I grow up,” the seed was planted. Decades later, that dream became reality. During this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, hosted by Cheryl Moss, Shelley shared the remarkable journey behind the founding of Shangri-La Farm Sanctuary in Litchfield, Ohio. A Childhood Vow Comes Full Circle Shelley and her husband Jeff opened the gates to Shangri-La Farm Sanctuary over seven years ago. What began with the rescue of two horses headed for slaughter,Tatanka and Maisie, quickly expanded. Soon, a donkey named Cisco joined the fold after enduring severe neglect. The sanctuary has since grown to nearly 20 residents, including senior dogs, goats, chickens, turkeys, and more farm animals needing lifelong care and love. From Vegetarian to Vegan—and Fully Committed Shelley’s transition to veganism marked a pivotal point. Though she had been a vegetarian for nearly 40 years, a deeper awakening about the plight of animals led her to go fully vegan. This shift solidified her dedication to ensuring the animals she rescues are never harmed, exploited, or rehomed unnecessarily. “They are under your care for life,” she explains, reflecting on the profound responsibility of sanctuary work. Understanding the Tenets of True Sanctuary At Shangri-La, the commitment is clear: no harm, no exploitation. That means no leather, no honey, no silk, and certainly no products derived from the very beings they work to save. “You cannot have a fundraiser and serve the very animals you’re trying to save on a plate,” Shelley says. For her, veganism isn’t optional, it’s foundational. Full post:
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36714865
info_outline
013: Jordi Casamitjana: Defending Animals Through Science, Sanctuary, and the Power of Ethical Veganism
05/19/2025
013: Jordi Casamitjana: Defending Animals Through Science, Sanctuary, and the Power of Ethical Veganism
Jordi Casamitjana is a vegan zoologist, animal rights activist, and author whose work spans science, sanctuary care, legal advocacy, and compassionate living. Originally from Catalonia and now based in the UK, Jordi’s journey into veganism began with an unexpected moment involving a wasp. That encounter sparked a lifelong commitment to seeing the value in all animals, no matter how overlooked. He spent five years at Wild Futures, a monkey sanctuary in Cornwall, where he cared for woolly monkeys rescued from the exotic pet trade. Later, with the Born Free Foundation, he exposed the suffering caused by animal captivity in zoos. His insights reveal how animals in captivity lose space, stimulation, and choice. In 2020, Jordi made history by winning a landmark legal case recognizing ethical veganism under the UK’s Equality Act. His book Ethical Vegan explores this journey and the broader ethics behind living without causing harm. He also introduced the concept of the “blood footprint,” urging us to consider how our choices affect sentient beings. Jordi’s life is a powerful reminder that empathy, science, and activism can come together to create real change. Full post at: https://www.betterlifeforanimals.com/podcast/013-Jordi-Casamitjana
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36625290
info_outline
012: Professor Matthew Halteman on Ethics, Animals, and Awe
05/12/2025
012: Professor Matthew Halteman on Ethics, Animals, and Awe
According to Oxford researcher Joseph Poore, going vegan is “the single biggest way” to reduce your environmental footprint. On this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, Cheryl Moss sits down with Professor Matthew Halteman, author of Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan. This heart-opening conversation explores how joy, not shame, can drive powerful change. From sanctuaries as emissaries of hope to the deep connection between food, identity, and justice, Halteman invites listeners to rethink veganism as a path of flourishing. He shares compelling stories, including a backyard epiphany that reshaped his life and work. Listen now to discover how beauty, awe, and compassion can inspire a more aligned and purpose-driven life. Full post at
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36533290
info_outline
011: Rescue, Resilience, and Reverence: John Vallimarescu’s Story Behind Sunset Farm Sanctuary
05/05/2025
011: Rescue, Resilience, and Reverence: John Vallimarescu’s Story Behind Sunset Farm Sanctuary
Why 82% of Starving Children Live in Countries Growing Feed for Western Livestock Eighty-two percent of starving children live in countries where crops are grown to feed animals eaten in the West. That staggering fact is just one of the many insights shared by John Vallimarescu in this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, hosted by Cheryl Moss. John transitioned from a career in economic consulting to becoming Chair of the Board for Sunset Farm Sanctuary in Cove, Arkansas, home to 129 rescued animals. When the sanctuary suffered a $260,000 loss due to a fraudulent moving company, John responded with action by launching a powerful project: a $9.99 eBook called Voices of Kindness and Compassion: Interviews with Vegans. This episode dives into John's unexpected path from TikTok user to sanctuary leader, his childhood bond with animals, and the reality of running a rescue. He also shares a thought experiment that challenges listeners to consider what truly matters in the face of a global crisis. The book features 38 vegan voices from 10 countries, offering raw, real answers about why they went vegan, how it’s changed their health, and what inspires them to stay committed. Proceeds directly support the care and feeding of the animals at Sunset Farm. Cheryl and John explore: The link between factory farming and global food insecurity The emotional and physical demands of animal sanctuary work How a simple eBook can make a real difference What it means to live with compassion at the center of your life Why veganism is about far more than food Buy the book, support the sanctuary, and discover how small actions ripple into meaningful change. Listen now and be inspired to become a voice for the voiceless.
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36438345
info_outline
010: The Golden Rule in Action: Animal Sanctuaries and Dr. Will Tuttle’s Vision for Change
04/28/2025
010: The Golden Rule in Action: Animal Sanctuaries and Dr. Will Tuttle’s Vision for Change
Can compassion heal the world? Dr. Will Tuttle, acclaimed author of The World Peace Diet and former Zen monk, believes it can—and it starts with how we treat animals. In this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, Dr. Tuttle reveals how animal sanctuaries offer a powerful model for reversing centuries of violence, environmental destruction, and injustice. Sanctuaries aren't just rescue spaces—they are seeds of cultural transformation, embodying the Golden Rule and showing us a better way to live. Learn how herding cultures shaped modern oppression, why eating violence leads to societal unrest, and how vegan living and supporting sanctuaries can spark massive positive change. Animal sanctuaries as living examples of compassion The critical importance of the Golden Rule for animals How herding cultures shaped today’s food systems Sanctuaries as catalysts for societal healing Why supporting animal sanctuaries is vital for a peaceful future Dr. Tuttle’s message is clear: "While the problems are increasingly complex, the answers are embarrassingly simple." Choosing compassion changes everything. Listen now and join the movement toward a more compassionate, sustainable, and just world.
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36338805
info_outline
009: Building a Kinder Economy: Faik Bouhrik’s Mission to Uplift Animal Sanctuaries Worldwide
04/25/2025
009: Building a Kinder Economy: Faik Bouhrik’s Mission to Uplift Animal Sanctuaries Worldwide
Many animal sanctuaries are underfunded, yet they play a critical role in protecting animals and educating the public. Faik Bouhrik, cosmologist, educator, and founder of Veggies, is turning that challenge into opportunity. On this episode of Better Life for Animals, hosted by Cheryl Moss, Bouhrik shares how his platform—Veggies (veggius.com)—connects vegan-friendly travel and events with direct financial support for animal sanctuaries. Think Airbnb meets Eventbrite, but with a mission. With 50% of service fees going to sanctuaries, a public-facing impact tracker, and zero extra effort required from partner organizations, Veggies is setting a new standard for ethical business in the plant-based world. In This Episode: What inspired Bouhrik to launch Veggies How sanctuaries benefit without hosting events The power of merging commerce with compassion Why transparency and ethics are the future of vegan business Full show notes at:
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36309585
info_outline
008: Why It’s “Cool to Care”: Susan Hargreaves and the Power of Compassionate Education
04/23/2025
008: Why It’s “Cool to Care”: Susan Hargreaves and the Power of Compassionate Education
Studies show that children who grow up with animals tend to develop stronger empathy and social skills. In this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, host Cheryl Moss speaks with Susan Hargreaves - founder of Animal Hero Kids and Be An Animal Hero - about how early humane education shapes lifelong compassion. With over four decades of experience in animal advocacy and youth education, Susan shares how her programs empower children to become changemakers for animals, the environment, and each other. From interactive classroom visits and cruelty-free education to books featuring vegan superheroes, Susan’s work is making kindness cool and accessible. In this interview, you'll learn how teaching compassion to kids helps build a more just and sustainable future. Susan discusses the importance of animal storytelling, vegan education, and age-appropriate activism that inspires kids to speak up and take action. Whether you're a parent, educator, animal advocate, or simply care about raising a kinder generation, this conversation offers actionable insights and inspiration. Susan’s mission is supported by global icons like Jane Goodall, Michelle Obama, and Paul McCartney - and her legacy continues to grow with every child who learns to care. To support this work or get involved, visit: www.BeAnAnimalHero.org Full episode and show notes: www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/008-Susan-Hargreaves
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36277505
info_outline
007: Farm Animal Sanctuaries Get Just 3% of Funding—Why It Matters with Helen Demes
04/21/2025
007: Farm Animal Sanctuaries Get Just 3% of Funding—Why It Matters with Helen Demes
Did you know that 97% of all animal welfare funding goes to companion animals—while farm animal sanctuaries receive less than 3%? In this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, host Cheryl Moss talks with Helen Demas, founder of Sunset Farm Sanctuary, about the funding crisis that’s threatening sanctuaries across the country. Helen shares her incredible journey from intelligence analyst to full-time animal advocate, and why she made the bold move from Oregon to Arkansas to keep her animals safe from wildfires and climate threats. We explore: The harsh financial reality farm sanctuaries face How climate change is impacting animal rescue efforts The critical shift from rescue to education Powerful stories of animal-human connection Why systemic change starts with compassion and awareness Sunset Farm is currently struggling with severe infrastructure damage and medical challenges following a devastating windstorm. By learning more, you can help. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about animal rights, ethical living, and the future of farm sanctuaries. Hear how farm animals grieve, connect, and teach us what it means to care.
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36244190
info_outline
006: From Boardrooms to Barnyards: Mark Starmer’s Fight for Animal Welfare
04/18/2025
006: From Boardrooms to Barnyards: Mark Starmer’s Fight for Animal Welfare
Why do so many people say they care about animals and the planet—but stop short of real change? In this powerful episode, Mark Starmer—a leadership expert turned full-time animal advocate—joins host Cheryl Moss to explore the disconnect between values and action. Mark shares his journey from corporate boardrooms to founding the Peace of Heaven Project, a sanctuary in British Columbia that’s home to over 150 rescued animals. He reveals how his work in human behavior and leadership is helping bridge the gap between awareness and meaningful action in both individual lives and corporate spaces. Discover the psychology behind behavior change Learn how immersive experiences with animals change hearts Explore how Mark helps companies adopt plant-based initiatives Hear about the realities of running a grassroots animal sanctuary Find out how sponsoring a single fence post can make a big difference This episode is for anyone passionate about animal welfare, vegan living, sustainability, and leadership for social good. Whether you're an activist, sanctuary supporter, or corporate changemaker, Mark’s story will inspire you to take action for a more compassionate world. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with others who care about animals, the environment, and making a difference.
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36220080
info_outline
005: A Voice for the Voiceless: Dr. Angela Crawford on Choosing a Kinder World for Animals
04/16/2025
005: A Voice for the Voiceless: Dr. Angela Crawford on Choosing a Kinder World for Animals
Most people consider themselves compassionate—yet every day, choices at the dinner table contribute to immense animal suffering. Hidden behind sanitized labels and clever marketing, the brutal truth of animal agriculture remains largely unseen. But what happens when the veil is lifted? In this powerful episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, host Cheryl Moss welcomes Dr. Angela Crawford—a psychologist, vegan educator, and author of the upcoming book The Vegan Transformation: A Journey to Heal Yourself and the World. Together, they explore the emotional and ethical shifts that occur when people awaken to the truth about animal exploitation and choose to live in alignment with their values. Dr. Crawford shares her own journey from unawareness to advocacy, reflecting on how cultural conditioning once shaped her beliefs. Her story is a moving reminder of the burden that comes with knowing—and the strength it takes to act. Listeners will discover: Why many compassionate people remain disconnected from the impact of their food choices The emotional challenges and rewards of embracing a plant-based lifestyle How to find resilience, purpose, and fulfillment through vegan advocacy Practical steps for staying committed in a non-vegan world This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the early stages of veganism or seeking a deeper sense of meaning in their activism. Full post at:
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36187570
info_outline
004: From Climate Crisis to Climate Healing: The Role of Veganism and Sanctuaries – Dr. Sailesh Rao
04/14/2025
004: From Climate Crisis to Climate Healing: The Role of Veganism and Sanctuaries – Dr. Sailesh Rao
The Climate Crisis Starts with Animal Exploitation—Dr. Sailesh Rao Reveals the Path Forward Industrial farming is fueling climate change—and the solution starts with compassion. In this powerful episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, host Cheryl Moss sits down with renowned climate scientist and founder of Climate Healers, Dr. Sailesh Rao, to explore how animal suffering is deeply intertwined with environmental destruction—and why shifting to a plant-based world is humanity’s most urgent task. From deforestation and biodiversity collapse to carbon emissions and ecosystem collapse, Dr. Rao unpacks the devastating impact of animal agriculture—and how animal sanctuaries are leading the way toward healing. With decades of research and activism behind him, Dr. Rao calls on each of us to become part of a new system based on abundance, regeneration, and compassion. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why animal agriculture is a leading cause of climate change and deforestation How sanctuaries educate the public and inspire powerful change What it means to shift from a scarcity-based to an abundance-based society Practical steps YOU can take to make a difference today The urgent need for grassroots advocacy and plant-based living Take Action for Animals and the Planet Support sanctuaries. Embrace a plant-based lifestyle. Raise your voice for climate justice. Learn how at Subscribe to the Better Life for Animals Podcast for more eye-opening conversations with activists, sanctuary founders, and plant-based leaders working to create a kinder, more sustainable world for all beings. Full post at:
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36127140
info_outline
003: The Vegan Mentor is on a Mission: Why Linda Middlesworth Won’t Stop Fighting for Animals
04/11/2025
003: The Vegan Mentor is on a Mission: Why Linda Middlesworth Won’t Stop Fighting for Animals
Linda Middlesworth, known as The Vegan Mentor, has been a passionate ethical vegan for over 37 years. Now 81, she continues to lead with energy, purpose, and compassion—advocating for animals, plant-based living, and sustainable health around the world. In this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, host Cheryl Moss speaks with Linda about her journey from personal health crisis to becoming a prominent figure in the vegan movement. Linda founded the Sacramento Vegan Society, now with over 5,600 members, and co-founded v-dog, a leading vegan dog food company. She also launched Vegan Mentor, a coaching program that has guided hundreds toward a healthier, more compassionate lifestyle. Linda is a certified Food for Life instructor with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, a fitness trainer, and founder of the Go Healthy LIVE global summit series, which includes Go Compassionate LIVE and Go Sustainable LIVE. Her work spans education, activism, coaching, and sanctuary support. She has received numerous awards from organizations including PETA, In Defense of Animals, PCRM, and Social Compassion in Legislation. Her decades-long commitment to animals and people proves it’s never too late to make a difference. Topics include: How Linda transitioned to a vegan lifestyle and never looked back What inspired her to launch Vegan Mentor and v-dog The role of sanctuaries, summits, and education in building a kinder world Why fitness and health remain central to her mission at age 81 Visit: Download the free guide: Be a Hero for the Animals Help support underrepresented sanctuaries by sharing this episode
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36097325
info_outline
002: John Oberg: Using Social Media to Transform Animal Advocacy
04/09/2025
002: John Oberg: Using Social Media to Transform Animal Advocacy
Advocating for animals has never been more urgent—or more powerful. In this episode of the Better Life for Animals podcast, renowned animal advocate and digital strategist John Oberg shares how he has reached over 500 million people online with compelling pro-animal content. Since dedicating his life to animal rights in 2012, John has become a leading voice in the movement, using social media to change hearts and minds around the world. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How John Oberg uses social media to drive real-world change for animals Why digital advocacy can be more impactful than traditional protest-based activism The role of storytelling in inspiring compassion and action How sanctuaries help people see animals as individuals, not commodities The power of the reducetarian approach in expanding the vegan movement Why community support is vital for long-term activism What gives John hope for the future of animal rights Key Highlights: John emphasizes the importance of balancing hard truths with uplifting stories to make content accessible and emotionally resonant. He discusses the growing influence of flexitarians and plant-based consumers in shifting market demand, and shares touching stories from animal sanctuaries—including the transformation of Sunshine, a piglet rescued from a slaughter truck. Support John Oberg’s Work: As an independent advocate, John relies on donations to continue spreading awareness. Subscribe to Better Life for Animals for powerful conversations with changemakers in the animal protection movement. From activists and authors to sanctuary leaders and policy advocates, this podcast shares the stories that inspire compassion, connection, and action. Full post at: https:
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36066070
info_outline
001: Cheryl Moss Is Using Her Voice to Uplift Animal Sanctuaries and Inspire Change
04/07/2025
001: Cheryl Moss Is Using Her Voice to Uplift Animal Sanctuaries and Inspire Change
Better Life for Animals Podcast | Stories of Rescue, Hope, and Compassion Each year, more than 70 billion animals are raised and killed for food—many without ever knowing kindness, freedom, or fresh air. But behind these overwhelming numbers are real stories of survival, healing, and second chances. The Better Life for Animals podcast brings those stories to life. Hosted by animal advocate and children’s author Cheryl Moss, Better Life for Animals is on a mission to spotlight the unsung heroes working tirelessly to protect and care for animals—often without recognition or support. From sanctuary founders to grassroots rescue teams, each episode reveals the deep emotional lives of animals and the people fighting for their freedom. For Cheryl, this journey began not in a sanctuary, but at home—with one small rescue dog named Ruby. That experience changed everything. It opened her heart and mind to the truth: animals are not here for us—they are here with us. Through moving conversations, expert insights, and powerful storytelling, the podcast invites listeners to reconnect with their values and become part of a growing movement of compassion. Why this podcast matters: Most sanctuaries operate on tight budgets and pure heart—raising awareness is essential Veganism represents only about 2% of the population—this podcast helps expand the conversation Every episode is a reminder that animals are individuals with unique personalities, emotions, and the right to live free from harm Subscribe and tune in to discover: The real cost and reward of running an animal sanctuary How everyday people are making an extraordinary difference What you can do to support the movement, even if you're just starting out Whether you’re vegan, veg-curious, or simply someone who cares, Better Life for Animals offers heartfelt stories, real education, and meaningful ways to get involved. Cheryl is also committed to raising $100,000 for Mercy For Animals through her advocacy and children’s books like Gabriel, Cluck, and Pickle the Pig. If you’ve ever looked into the eyes of an animal and felt a connection, this podcast is for you. Subscribe now and join the community working toward a better life for animals—one story at a time. Full post at
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/36029850
info_outline
000: A Sanctuary for Hope: Welcome to Better Life for Animals
03/18/2025
000: A Sanctuary for Hope: Welcome to Better Life for Animals
In this inaugural episode of Better Life for Animals, host Cheryl Moss introduces the mission and heart behind the podcast. Animal sanctuaries around the world provide safe havens for animals rescued from abuse, neglect, and exploitation—offering them the love, care, and dignity they deserve. But behind every rescue is a story of resilience, as well as the immense dedication it takes to keep these sanctuaries running. Cheryl explores the critical role of sanctuaries in protecting farmed animals, wildlife, companion animals, and those saved from laboratory testing and entertainment industries. She highlights the ongoing challenges these organizations face, from funding to daily operations, and shares how listeners can play a vital role in supporting these life-saving efforts. If you’re passionate about animal advocacy, ethical living, or simply want to learn more about the extraordinary people creating safe spaces for animals, this podcast is for you. Tune in to hear inspiring stories, expert insights, and practical ways to make a difference. Subscribe now and join us in building a world where all animals are treated with compassion and respect. For more on Cheryl Moss and Better Life for Animals Mission, visit:
/episode/index/show/b18e17e5-e2c4-455c-a3a9-e5f1e00abc7a/id/35743865