In this expansive and inspiring conversation, Sean A. Russell welcomes journalist and activist Jane Velez-Mitchell to explore the intersection of media, Veganism, social justice, and compassion. Jane shares her Vegan origin story, her groundbreaking career in broadcast journalism, and the moment that led her to fully embrace Vegan activism. The episode dives into the creation of Unchained.com, the rise of plant-based innovation, COVID-19’s exposure of animal agriculture, climate accountability, inclusivity in the Vegan movement, and why every individual has the power to create change through everyday actions.
Jane’s Vegan Origin Story
- Childhood influence through her mother’s compassion for animals
- The pivotal interview with former cattle rancher Howard Lyman
- The moment dairy was exposed as “liquid meat” and everything changed
From Broadcast Journalism to Vegan Media
- Early career at CBS, CNN, and major local newsrooms
- Covering celebrity trials and national news
- Using mainstream media platforms to spotlight animal rights
Building JaneUnchained.com
- Transitioning from corporate media to grassroots livestreaming
- Empowering global contributors to report Vegan news
- Why social media is the most powerful activism tool today
Animal Agriculture, COVID-19, and Worker Justice
- Slaughterhouses as pandemic hotspots
- The human cost behind meat production
- Why plant-based food supports both people and animals
Climate Change and Environmental Accountability
- Animal agriculture’s role in deforestation and emissions
- Calling out environmental groups that ignore food systems
- Joaquin Phoenix and shifting the public narrative
Inclusivity and the Future of the Vegan Movement
- Addressing diversity and representation within Vegan spaces
- Why compassion must extend to all communities
- The rise of plant-based leadership across cultures
Hope, Activism, and the Road Ahead
- COVID-19 as a wake-up call from nature
- Supporting Vegan restaurants and local economies
- Why Jane believes a Vegan world is possible within our lifetime
About the Show
The Vegans Explore Podcast is on a mission to record a new episode every day until November 1, 2026, spotlighting Vegan topics, changemakers, nonprofits, and brands from around the world. Explore additional episodes.
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