Better Life for Animals

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  https://BetterLifeForAnimals.com 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: www.betterlifeforanimals.com/podcast/004-Dr-Sailesh-Rao

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: www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/003-Linda-Middlesworth  Download the free guide: Be a Hero for the Animals Help support underrepresented sanctuaries by sharing this episode

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:  www.betterlifeforanimals.com/podcast/002-John-Oberg 

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 www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast/001-Cheryl-Moss   

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: www.BetterLifeForAnimals.com