Have you ever wondered how you can influence laws that protect animals? In this episode, Nicole sits down with Brian Shapiro, the New York State Director of the Humane Society of the United States, to discuss how anyone can become a citizen lobbyist for animals. They share practical steps for reaching out to legislators, offer tips on effective advocacy, and dispel common misconceptions about politicians and the political process. Learn how to make your voice heard and take action for animals!

Brian Shapiro brings four decades of animal advocacy experience to the Humane Society of the United States. He has led the organization’s New York campaigns since 2012, successfully passing legislation ending the sale of illegal ivory and shark fins in the state, shutting down the inhumane “Puppy Mill Pipeline,” stopping wildlife killing contests, and helping to secure state funding for New York’s network of animal shelters. Shapiro is a board member of the New York State Animal Protection Federation, which represents the state’s animal shelters. He has served as an upstate county legislator and shelter director, and lives in Albany, NY.

Contact Brian: bshapiro@humanesociety.org

Brian Shapiro on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brian.shapiro.7

I'm Just a Bill - Schoolhouse Rock: https://youtu.be/SZ8psP4S6BQ?si=n6ZgzAGmQ8SbdY_v

Brian's Favorite Vegan Hot Dog

How to find your representatives in your state:

Google, "find my (state) senator/assemblymember/delegate/representatives"

Need help? Email us at nicolearciello@gmail.com

Visit us at inbehalfofanimals.org - Send us a question, comment, leave a review!

If you’re heartbroken by stories of animal cruelty and want to make a difference, "In Behalf of Animals" is the podcast for you.

Hosts Nicole Arciello and Patrick Battuello, vegan activists and leaders of Horseracing Wrongs, dive into animal rights issues, exploring the power of everyday choices.

Whether you’re new to advocacy or a seasoned activist, this podcast offers inspiring stories and actionable insights to empower you to advocate for a kinder, more compassionate world. Join us for our first episode on October 4th, with new episodes every other Friday.

Don't forget to follow and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform!

Show website: https://inbehalfofanimals.alitu.com/

Follow Nicole and Patrick:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolearciello/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@inbehalfofanimals

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inbehalfofanimals/

What drives someone to advocate for animals? In this first episode of In Behalf of Animals, hosts Patrick and Nicole share their journeys into animal activism and the mission behind the podcast. Join us as we explore our motivations and vision for a compassionate world for all animals. Tune in and discover how you can be a voice for the voiceless!

Show notes:

To learn more about Nicole and Patrick: https://www.inbehalfofanimals.org/

Petco Stops Selling Rabbits: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/retail/2024/09/24/petco-rabbits-adoption/75351849007/

Patrick and Nicole's work at Horseracing Wrongs: https://horseracingwrongs.org/

Peter Singer: https://www.petersinger.info/

Earthlings Film: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/videos/earthlings-10-year-anniversary-edition

Meet Your Meat: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1667843/

Some of Nicole’s Favorite Vegan Recipe Resources:

https://www.theppk.com/recipes/

https://www.noracooks.com/