Vance Lehmkuhl on Veg History in Philadelphia

In this episode of The Glen Merzer Show, host Glen Merzer speaks with Vance Lehmkuhl, who shares his journey to veganism and discusses the American Vegan Center in Philadelphia. Vance reflects on his 25 years as a vegan, the history of the American Vegan Society, and the significance of various historical figures in the vegan movement, including Benjamin Franklin, Benjamin Lay, and Anthony Benazé. The conversation also touches on the establishment of vegetarian activism in Philadelphia and the contributions of the Grimke sisters and Bronson Alcott to the movement. This conversation explores the rich history of veganism and vegetarianism in Philadelphia, highlighting key figures such as Carol and Earl White, Henry Club, Mildred Norman, Jay Dinshaw, Freya Dinshaw, and Alfonso Austin. It delves into the connections between the abolitionist movement and animal rights, the evolution of the American Vegan Society, and the thriving vegan food scene in Philadelphia, including the significance of the vegan cheesesteak.

takeaways

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Vance Lemkul and the American Vegan Center

01:06 Vance's Journey to Veganism

03:30 The American Vegan Society and Its History

04:29 Overview of the American Vegan Center

07:24 Historical Figures in Veganism

10:12 Benjamin Franklin's Vegetarianism

14:28 Benjamin Lay: A Forgotten Pioneer

20:09 Anthony Benazé and His Activism

25:19 The Establishment of Vegetarian Activism in Philadelphia

30:07 The Grimke Sisters and Their Impact

32:59 Bronson Alcott and His Influence

34:55 The Pioneers of Animal Welfare

35:54 Henry Club and the Vegetarian Society

37:48 Mildred Norman: The Peace Pilgrim

39:07 Jay Dinshaw and the American Vegan Society

41:55 Freya Dinshaw's Contributions to Veganism

42:50 Alfonso Austin and the Vegan Food Scene

45:12 The Evolution of Veganism in Philadelphia

47:04 Abolitionism and Veganism: A Shared History

54:05 The Future of the American Vegan Society

55:26 Sylvester Graham and the Birth of Vegetarianism

01:02:34 The Vegan Cheesesteak Revolution

01:06:47 The Thriving Vegan Restaurant Scene in Philadelphia

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

In this conversation, Glen Merzer speaks with Gerard Wedderburn-Bisshop, a former principal scientist, about the pressing issues of climate change, deforestation, and the impact of animal agriculture on the environment. They discuss the increasing intensity of wildfires, the consequences of habitat loss, and the inefficiencies of meat production. Gerard shares his personal transformation towards environmental awareness and the need for a shift in agricultural practices to combat climate change. The conversation also delves into scientific contributions to climate policy and the underestimated impact of methane on global warming. In this conversation, the focus is on the critical role of methane in climate change, the impact of aerosols, and the importance of oceans in carbon sequestration. The discussion highlights the need for a shift in focus from fossil fuels to methane emissions, the consequences of industrial practices like bottom trawling, and the complexities of carbon accounting in relation to animal agriculture. The conversation also touches on the reactions to new research and the influence of the agricultural industry on climate science.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of Climate Change

02:46 The Impact of Wildfires and Extreme Weather

06:10 Deforestation and Industrial Beef Production

09:07 Monitoring Deforestation: A Government Perspective

12:02 The Consequences of Habitat Loss

14:54 Historical Context of Deforestation

17:46 Personal Transformation and Environmental Awareness

21:13 The Inefficiency of Animal Agriculture

24:10 The Need for Change in Agricultural Practices

27:01 Scientific Contributions to Climate Policy

29:55 Understanding Methane's Impact on Climate

34:15 The Methane Focus: A Climate Solution

39:35 Aerosols and Their Impact on Global Warming

42:20 The Role of Oceans in Carbon Sequestration

46:44 The Consequences of Bottom Trawling

49:30 Pasture Maintenance Fires and Carbon Emissions

52:23 The Debate on Carbon Accounting

56:40 Reactions to New Climate Research

01:01:20 The Influence of Animal Agriculture on Climate Change

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

In this episode, Monica Chen, the executive director of New Roots Institute, shares her journey from a childhood love for her guinea pig to leading a nonprofit focused on educating youth about the impacts of factory farming. The conversation explores the role of New Roots Institute in empowering students through leadership development and educational outreach, the ethical considerations surrounding animal agriculture, and the challenges of changing dietary habits. Monica emphasizes the importance of engaging students in discussions about food choices and the environmental impact of their diets, while also highlighting the need for systemic change in the food industry.

Visit New Roots Institute website: https://www.newrootsinstitute.org/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to New Roots Institute and Monica Chen

02:45 Monica's Journey to Veganism and Nonprofit Work

06:32 The Role of New Roots Institute in Education

10:42 Engaging Students in Animal Rights and Factory Farming

18:35 Ethical Considerations in Animal Agriculture

25:32 Challenges in Changing Dietary Habits

32:06 Leadership Development and Campaigns at New Roots

39:36 The Future of Food Systems and Environmental Impact

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

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Author, classical pianist, and professor Dr. Joanne Kong joins opera singer and physical and vocal athlete Bulent Guneralp and Glen for a three-way conversation on veganism and how best to spread the message of compassion, health, and spiritual clarity.

In this engaging conversation, Glen talks with Dr. Joanne and Bulent, two passionate vegans who share their personal journeys to veganism, the health benefits they experienced, and the deeper connections they found between their dietary choices and their spiritual lives. They discuss the cultural conditioning surrounding food choices, the importance of compassion for animals, and how their vegan lifestyles have influenced their careers in music and performance. The conversation also touches on family dynamics and the broader implications of veganism for health and the environment. In this conversation, they delve into the interconnectedness of diet, health, and spirituality, particularly focusing on veganism. They discuss the disruption of the food chain, the impact of diet on health during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of personal example in vegan advocacy. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating societal perceptions of veganism and the potential for music and activism to create change. Ultimately, they emphasize the spiritual dimensions of diet and the need for compassion and understanding in discussions about food choices.

Check Dr. Joanne's website and work:

www.vegansmakeadifference.com

https://prime.peta.org/news/dr-joanne-kong-why-i-dedicate-my-life-to-animal-rights/

Check Bulent work:

https://prime.peta.org/news/a-myth-busting-vegan-journey-bulent-guneralp/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Guests

02:28 Journeys to Veganism: Personal Stories

05:54 Health and Compassion: The Vegan Connection

09:11 Muscle Building and Veganism: A Unique Approach

13:10 Realizing Our True Nature: Herbivores at Heart

16:07 Cultural Conditioning and Veganism

20:54 Family Dynamics and Dietary Choices

24:56 Health, Compassion, and the Bigger Picture

28:20 Awakening to the Truth: A Spiritual Journey

31:57 Disruption of the Food Chain

36:12 The Impact of Diet on Health and COVID-19

41:27 Navigating Vegan Advocacy

46:29 The Power of Personal Example

52:21 Physical Transformation Through Veganism

57:10 Musical Collaboration and Activism

01:01:01 Spirituality and Diet

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

In this episode, Glen Merzer hosts Raven Morgan and Dustin Weatherby, the owners of Raven's Retreat in Hocking Hills, Ohio. The conversation explores their journey to veganism, experiences in animal agriculture, the balance between their athletic pursuits and vegan lifestyle, their artistic expressions, and the vision for their retreat focused on mental wellness and mindfulness. They also discuss collaborations with vegan businesses to create a supportive community. This conversation explores the multifaceted approach to wellness and mindfulness through the lens of a nature retreat in Hocking Hills. The hosts discuss the integration of functional fitness, wildlife preservation, and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of respecting nature and fostering creativity. They share personal stories about property ownership, the challenges of managing a retreat, and the connection between athleticism and animal rights advocacy. The discussion highlights the aspirations for future vegan offerings and the desire to create a transformative experience for guests.

Visit their website: https://ravensretreathockinghills.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Raven's Retreat and Veganism

02:56 The Journey to Veganism

05:48 Experiences in Animal Agriculture

09:09 Balancing Veganism and Athleticism

12:07 Artistic Expressions and Retreat Vision

15:09 Creating a Mindfulness Experience

17:58 Collaborations with Vegan Businesses

31:07 Mindfulness and Functional Fitness Trails

34:06 The Beauty of Hocking Hills

36:32 Wildlife Preservation and Education

39:28 A Personal Story of Property Ownership

42:51 Creating a Retreat Experience

43:48 The Connection Between Athletes and Animal Rights

49:12 Community and Veganism in Hocking Hills

54:59 Future Aspirations for Vegan Offerings

01:00:19 Challenges of Managing a Nature Retreat

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

In this conversation, The "Avatar of Optimism," Dr. Sailesh Rao, discusses the critical role of animal agriculture in climate change, emphasizing that it is a leading cause of greenhouse gas emissions. He highlights the increasing number of vegans and the importance of embracing the term 'vegan' to normalize the movement. The discussion also touches on cultural perspectives, the economic ties between dairy and beef industries, and the need for a collective awakening to the environmental impact of our dietary choices. Dr. Sailesh presents insights from recent academic papers and documentaries that shed light on these issues, ultimately advocating for a plant-based lifestyle as a solution to climate change. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of climate change, focusing on the underestimated impacts of CO2 and SO2, the IPCC's methodologies, and the significant role of animal agriculture in emissions. They discuss the importance of accurate methane measurement and the cooling effects of fossil fuels versus animal agriculture. The conversation introduces a systems engineering approach to climate solutions through the bathtub model, emphasizing the need for dietary changes as a crucial step in addressing climate change. The speakers express optimism about nature's ability to guide solutions and the potential for improved health outcomes through a plant-based diet.

For more information about the amazing work for Dr. Sailesh Rao, visit his website: https://climatehealers.org/

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

In this episode of The Glen Merzer Show, host Glen Merzer speaks with Jeff Nelson, founder of VegSource.com, about the evolution of the plant-based movement, personal journeys into veganism, and the impact of diet on health and community. They discuss the importance of social aspects in plant-based events, the role of diet in managing autoimmune diseases, and the influence of family on dietary choices. The conversation also touches on weight management and the debate surrounding the health benefits of nuts. In this conversation, the speakers discuss various aspects of nutrition, the plant-based movement, and personal health practices. They explore the myths surrounding nutrient deficiencies, the longevity of the Okinawan diet, and the evolution of veganism over the years. The discussion also touches on personal health approaches, including preventive care and experiences with fasting, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle in achieving longevity.

Visit Jeff's website here: https://www.vegsource.com

Subscribe to Jeff's Youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@vegsource

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Plant-Based Movement

02:56 The Evolution of Plant-Based Events

05:47 Personal Journeys into Plant-Based Living

09:05 Health Transformations through Diet

12:00 The Role of Diet in Autoimmune Diseases

14:48 Family Influence on Dietary Choices

17:47 The Impact of Diet on Weight Management

21:13 Debating the Health Benefits of Nuts

26:34 Nutrient Deficiency Myths

29:01 The Okinawan Diet and Longevity

30:49 The Evolution of the Plant-Based Movement

37:12 The Impact of Veganism on Health

42:52 Personal Health Approaches and Preventive Care

47:44 Experiences with Fasting and Future Goals

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.

In this conversation, Matthew Halteman, author of 'Hungry Beautiful Animals', discusses his journey to veganism, influenced by his bulldog Gus, and the philosophical underpinnings of his beliefs. He emphasizes the importance of reframing veganism from an obligation to an opportunity for flourishing, exploring the diverse paths individuals can take towards a vegan lifestyle. The discussion also touches on the role of family legacy in shaping one's philosophical outlook and the need for a compassionate approach to vegan advocacy. In this conversation, the host and guest explore the intersection of philosophy and food ethics, discussing the importance of humility over superiority in ethical considerations. They delve into the practicality of philosophy in everyday food choices, the moral consensus against concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), and the skepticism surrounding regenerative agriculture and cultivated meat. The discussion highlights the potential of technology in food advocacy and concludes with a reflection on how veganism can lead to a more abundant and diverse diet.

Visit Matthew's website: https://www.hungrybeautifulanimals.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Matthew Halteman and His Work

02:24 The Influence of Gus: A Personal Journey to Veganism

06:30 Philosophy and Its Role in Personal Development

10:45 The Family Legacy of Philosophy

14:47 Reframing Veganism: From Obligation to Opportunity

22:15 The Beauty of Vegan Living and Its Benefits

24:14 The Challenge of Delicious Vegan Food

26:32 Diverse Paths to Veganism

32:51 The Concept of 'Vegan in Waiting'

39:27 From Judgment to Humility

42:04 The Practicality of Philosophy in Food

46:12 Philosophical Insights on Food Ethics

49:09 The Moral Consensus on CAFOs

52:32 The Illusion of Regenerative Meat

56:17 Skepticism Towards Cultivated Meat

01:01:28 The Role of Technology in Food Advocacy

01:08:23 Veganism as a Path to Abundance

Visit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.com

Get my new book, 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQ

Get "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDE

To order Sweet Indulgence Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet-Indulgence-Guilt-Free/dp/1570674248

DISCLAIMER: This podcast does not provide medical advice. The content of this podcast is provided for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health issue without consulting your doctor. Always seek medical advice before making any lifestyle changes.