Better Life for Animals

Most horses are rehomed an average of seven times during their lifetime. This instability often results in neglect, emotional distress, or a tragic end in the slaughter pipeline. In this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, Cheryl Moss speaks with Lidia Kuleshnyk, also known as Lady Apona, founder of AponaHealing.com. Lidia discusses her mission to heal the disconnection between humans and nature. She explains her L.O.V.E. Method, her use of Ho’oponopono to bring healing energy to horses, and her vision for creating equine land trusts and forever sanctuaries. She also outlines the seven spiritual steps that guided her in rescuing her first horse, a process that now inspires her clients. Listeners will discover how horses can help people process grief, manage stress, and heal trauma while also learning how sanctuaries can provide the stability and reverence that every horse deserves. Full post: www.BetterLIfeForAnimals.com/podcast/027-Lidia-Kuleshnyk

Can a 5-acre sanctuary in suburbia change how we treat farmed animals? Michele Waldman says yes—and she’s living proof. In this episode of the Better Life for Animals Podcast, Michele shares how she founded Rosie's Farm Sanctuary in a residential Maryland neighborhood to bring compassion closer to home. A licensed psychotherapist, Michele uses her deep understanding of trauma to connect people with animals in transformative ways. At Rosie's, rescued farm animals become teachers, and youth become leaders through LEAP internships, immersive tours, and hands-on humane education. From pigs painting snout art to launching state legislation, this sanctuary blends joy, healing, and justice. Don't miss Michele’s inspiring journey into animal advocacy, healing, and public education. www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/026-Michele-Waldman

More than 70 billion land animals are raised and slaughtered every year, yet most people rarely think about the individuals behind those numbers. Elizabeth Novogratz, founder of Species Unite, is working to change that. In this conversation with Better Life for Animals Podcast host Cheryl Moss, Elizabeth shares her journey from witnessing cruelty in the global animal trade to building a nonprofit media platform that inspires global action. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why 70% of Species Unite’s non-vegan audience reports reducing or eliminating animal products The promise of cultivated meat and plant-based innovation to replace animal products worldwide How storytelling can transform public perception — from misunderstood wolves to rescued orangutans The value of a judgment-free approach in animal advocacy About Our Guest: Elizabeth Novogratz is the founder and president of Species Unite, a media nonprofit dedicated to creating a more compassionate world for animals.  More at: www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/025-Elizabeth-Novogratz 

Less than 3% of American students receive humane education, yet it's one of the strongest predictors of ethical leadership. In this powerful episode of Better Life for Animals, host Cheryl Moss speaks with Danielle Hanosh, co-founder of LEAP (Leaders for Ethics, Animals, and the Planet) and Blackberry Creek Farm Animal Sanctuary. A former middle school teacher, Danielle shares how her passion for education and animal welfare inspired a national movement that’s transforming farm sanctuaries into youth leadership hubs. LEAP is a compassionate alternative to 4-H and FFA, teaching students public speaking, ethical decision-making, climate literacy, and animal protection—without compromising their empathy. In This Episode: Why sanctuaries are ideal spaces for leadership development The heartbreaking truth behind traditional youth ag programs like 4-H How LEAP empowers kids to question the norm and speak up for animals Stories of student transformation—including one child who found their voice How your sanctuary can become a certified LEAP hub The importance of empathy in solving the climate, mental health, and compassion crises Danielle’s mission is clear: raise ethical leaders, not just animal advocates. Whether you're an educator, sanctuary operator, or advocate for change, this episode will leave you inspired to reimagine how the next generation learns about animals, the planet, and their own power to lead. Full post: www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/024-Danielle-Hanosh

Most people don’t expect to find a thriving farm animal sanctuary nestled on just four acres of land in Indiana. But Jessica Wallace isn’t most people. A lifelong animal lover with a background in equine sciences and veterinary care, Jessica joined Cheryl Moss on the Better Life for Animals Podcast to share how her small but mighty sanctuary is making a big difference, especially for goats. A Lifelong Passion Sparked by Horses Jessica’s journey started with a love for horses. She earned an associate degree in equine sciences and worked in veterinary clinics for over a decade. In 2012, she bought a property so her horse could live at home. That decision eventually led to the founding of The Farm Micro Sanctuary. Goats Opened Her Heart and Her Eyes In 2019, Jessica rescued her first three goats. She was immediately taken by their intelligence, curiosity, and charm. “We’re not taught how amazing goats are,” she said. The turning point came when she took in Millie, a disabled goat from a dairy. Millie had given birth despite being unable to walk. Once her baby was taken, she was discarded. Jessica stepped in, and Millie has been with her ever since. “She’s fierce and amazing,” Jessica said. “She changed everything for me.” Full post at:  www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/023-Jessica-Wallace   

Zoe Weil, co-founder and president of the Institute for Humane Education, discusses the transformative potential of solutionary education. She emphasizes teaching students to address global challenges like factory farming and climate change through critical thinking and creative solutions. Zoe highlights how humane education fosters empathy and compassion, showcasing the vital role of animal sanctuaries in shaping young minds. Listeners learn about the ‘True Price’ of consumer choices and gain insights into instilling agency and hope in the next generation to create real change.

Can $23 a Month Offset Animal Suffering? Thom Norman of FarmKind Explains Can a small monthly donation create massive impact for animals? In this episode of Better Life for Animals, host Cheryl Moss sits down with Thom Norman, co-founder and director of Outreach at FarmKind, to explore how $23 a month can reduce the suffering caused by an average omnivorous diet. Thom introduces the concept of diet offsetting, a practical and inclusive solution for those who care about animals but may not be fully plant-based. Through FarmKind’s Compassion Calculator, individuals can measure the impact of their dietary choices and offset harm by donating to carefully vetted, high-impact animal charities. Thom shares his personal journey from corporate law to full-time animal advocacy, inspired by his own companion animals and the powerful message of The Life You Can Save. He also highlights how corporate campaigns, like the move toward cage-free eggs, are achieving real change at scale. What you'll learn: How diet offsetting empowers more people to help animals Why $1 can free a chicken from a battery cage How transparency and accountability build donor trust What makes FarmKind’s giving strategy unique and effective Why you do not have to be fully vegan to start making a difference Whether you are a lifelong vegan or just beginning your journey toward more compassionate living, this episode will show you how your dollars can do more than you ever imagined. Full post: https://www.betterlifeforanimals.com/podcast/021-Thom-Norman

Unity Farm Sanctuary in Sherborn, Massachusetts is home to over 250 rescued animals, including cows, pigs, goats, turkeys, ponies, and llamas. Founded in 2016 by Kathy and John Halamka, the sanctuary provides lifelong refuge to farmed animals while serving as a hub for humane education and community outreach. Co-founder Kathy Halamka brings her background in business and the arts to every aspect of the sanctuary. From coordinating volunteers to sharing stories through photography and writing, her hands-on leadership helps people connect deeply with the animals and the mission. Unity's residents are never adopted out. Once they arrive, they become permanent family members. For animals they cannot take in, Kathy works with other sanctuaries to ensure safe, long-term placements with thoughtful planning and support. With over 1,300 volunteers and a growing base of monthly donors and sponsors, Unity relies on community support to thrive. Fundraising efforts are transparent and mission-driven, including animal sponsorships, legacy giving, and events like Dudley Fest. Education is at the core of Unity’s work. Programs serve all ages, including the LEAP initiative, which offers students an ethical alternative to traditional 4-H and FFA programs. Tours and workshops promote kindness, compassion, and respect for animals as sentient beings. To learn more, support the mission, or schedule a visit, go to www.unityfarmsanctuary.org. Full post and other episodes: www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/020-Kathy-Halamka

Less than 1 percent of U.S. animal product consumers ever witness the conditions inside factory farms. Brent Ratkovich is part of the small percentage who has, and he has turned that truth into tireless action. In this episode, Cheryl Moss sits down with longtime animal advocate Brent Ratkovich, whose journey from personal health transformation to frontline activism highlights the power of everyday people making an extraordinary impact for animals. From solo street protests to large-scale hen rescues, Brent’s story is a powerful reminder that when it comes to animal rights, silence is never neutral. A Spark Ignited by Compassion Brent’s vegan journey began in 2013 for health reasons, but everything changed after watching the documentary Meet Your Meat. What started as a personal lifestyle shift quickly evolved into a public mission. He began attending protests with Mercy for Animals and soon launched One Cow Army, a bold solo outreach effort designed to grab attention and plant seeds for compassion through simple signs and meaningful conversations. Taking Action Where It Matters Most Within two years of going vegan, Brent was fully immersed in sanctuary life. His volunteer work with Animal Place Sanctuary included hands-on caregiving, barn cleaning, and life-saving rescue missions. From the emotional weight of pulling hens from the brink of death to the joy of watching them dust bathe for the first time, Brent understands what it takes to restore dignity to animals who have endured suffering. He also volunteers at other sanctuaries, including Harvest Home, Blue Barn, and Welcome Home Sanctuary. His message is clear: sanctuaries need both financial support and boots-on-the-ground help to keep going. https://betterlifeforanimals.com/podcast/019-Brent-Ratkovich

Over 70 billion land animals are killed for food every year, yet many of the people rescuing them, those running animal sanctuaries, struggle with visibility, funding, and the time it takes to spread their message. On this episode of the Better Life for Animals podcast, host Cheryl Moss welcomed bestselling author and vegan book strategist Mitali Deypurkaystha, also known as The Vegan Publisher, to explore how books can amplify advocacy and help sanctuaries thrive. A Book Is Your Mission in One Powerful Place “There’s something about writing a book,” Mitali explained. “It gives people the entirety of your message in one cohesive whole.”  With over 25 years in media and marketing and a client track record of over $6.5 million in revenue generated, Mitali believes a book is the most complete and enduring tool for any mission-led organization, including sanctuaries. While social media and websites have their place, they are often scattered, fleeting, and easy to miss. “Not everyone reads every blog or sees every post. But a book? People sit with it, they reflect, they connect,” she said. Heartfelt Animal Stories That Drive Support Mitali shared her own vegan awakening, which began with a rescue cat named Isha. “She taught me that animals are aware, emotional beings. That realization changed everything,” she said. Inspired by Isha, Mitali eventually adopted a plant-based lifestyle and has since helped countless ethical entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and changemakers turn their purpose into published works. For sanctuaries, she says, the best stories are often those of the animals themselves. “A donor might not remember your mission statement, but they’ll remember Daisy the pig who learned to trust again, or Benji the rooster who survived against the odds. That’s what moves people.” www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/018-Mitali-Deypurkaystha