In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Melanie Joy, a psychologist, founding president of Beyond Carnism, and the author of eight books, including the groundbreaking Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows.

Melanie breaks down the psychology of "Carnism”, the invisible belief system that conditions us to love some animals while eating others. We discuss why good people participate in harmful systems, how to handle the "annoying vegan" stereotype, and how to stay effective in our advocacy without burning out.

We also talk about:

• The Invisible Shield: Why people shut down when talking about animals
• Vegan Allies: Why you don’t need everyone to go 100% vegan to make an impact
• Navigating Relationships: How to talk to non-vegan family without the drama
• The Pioneer Price: Managing the emotional toll of living in a non-vegan world
• Sustainable Activism: Why self-compassion is a tool for the long haul

To support Beyond Carnism & access free resources for advocates: go to https://www.carnism.org & https://www.veganadvocacy.org

Time stamps:

00:00 — Teaser

00:28 — Introduction

02:16 — Introduction by Melanie

03:30 — How Melanie's Vegan Journey Began

05:00 — Carnism: The Invisible Belief System

07:46 — Navigating Relationships with Non-Vegans

14:20 — Mental Health in Vegan Advocacy

15:22 — Good People Can Do Harmful Things

18:23 — The Importance of Effective, Non-Shaming Advocacy

21:43 — How to Break Through the Carnism Bubble

23:27 — The Importance of Impact over Argument

30:27 — Resources & Conclusion

Thanks for listening!!

Much love,

Farah Amber

Watch the podcast on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/WuVhOpb--20

Connect with me: https://www.instagram.com/farahamberr Connect with Melanie Joy & Beyond Carnism: https://www.instagram.com/drmelaniejoy https://www.instagram.com/beyondcarnism https://www.carnism.org

More links: https://hoo.be/farahamber

Contact me: farahamberh@gmail.com