Human Animals

Sanctuaries, Slaughterhouses, and Saving Lives: Inside Farm Animal Refuge with Matt Lieurance

EP#10 | Matt Lieurance, co-founder of Farm Animal Refuge in Southern California, pulls back the curtain on running a sanctuary dedicated to rescued farm animals. From pigs with the intelligence of toddlers to cows in wheelchairs, Matt shares the realities of rescue work, the emotional toll of saying "no," and how meeting these animals changes visitors' lives and diets. Dive into conversations about: 1. Pig genius: Why pigs rival dogs in intelligence and emotional depth 2. The sanctuary dilemma: Balancing compassion with capacity (and why "no" is the hardest word) 3. Wheelchairs for goats? How Farm Animal Refuge redefines care for special-needs animals 4. The power of connection: How tours shift perspectives on food choices 5. Industry truths: Why slaughterhouse walls aren't made of glass 6. Compassion fatigue: The mental load of running a sanctuary Whether you're vegan, veg-curious, or just love animals, this episode is a raw look at the bonds that redefine what it means to care, and the systemic changes needed to protect farm animals. About the Guest: Matt Lieurance, Co-Founder of Farm Animal Refuge Matt runs a sanctuary in Southern California exclusively for farm animals, rescuing pigs, cows, chickens, and goats from the food industry and backyard neglect. A vocal advocate for plant-based living, he uses sanctuary tours to bridge the gap between plate and pasture. Follow their work at Farm Animal Refuge (https://farmanimalrefuge.org/ [https://farmanimalrefuge.org/]). Lesson Takeaways: 1. Pigs are family. Their emotional intelligence rivals dogs—they self-potty train and mourn like humans. 2. Sanctuaries aren't petting zoos. Animals have autonomy; some will hug you, others ignore you—and that's okay. 3. Compassion has limits. Rescues must say "no" to 99% of intake requests to sustain quality care. 4. Wheelchairs aren't just for pets. Goats and sheep thrive with mobility aids—vet care should be species-blind. 5. Diet changes save lives. One person going plant-based spares 200+ animals yearly. 6. Volunteer before you adopt. Sanctuary work reveals the 15-year commitment of caring for pigs or cows. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Meet Farm Animal Refuge 01:09 – Why pigs are the "fourth smartest land animal" (and cleaner than you think) 05:13 – The pig lift: A $10,000 game-changer for veterinary care 10:06 – How tours plant seeds for dietary changes (and why they're not petting zoos) 15:30 – Where sanctuary animals come from: Slaughterhouse rejects vs. surrendered pets 20:45 – Special-needs animals: Wheelchairs, spinal injuries, and the "Funky Bunch" 27:10 – The vet crisis: Why farm animals struggle to find care (and Davis road trips) 34:00 – The sanctuary mental load: Compassion fatigue, wildfires, and 3 AM emergencies 42:15 – Why fostering farm animals often backfires (and how to help responsibly) 50:20 – The truth about "humane" meat (and why small farms still slaughter) 58:00 – Climate, health, and ethics: The triple case for plant-based living 01:05:00 – How to visit Farm Animal Refuge (and Matt's favorite resident: Alfie the cow) Resources: Farm Animal Refuge Website: https://farmanimalrefuge.org/ [https://farmanimalrefuge.org/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmanimalrefuge/ [https://www.instagram.com/farmanimalrefuge/?hl=en] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmanimalrefuge/ [https://www.facebook.com/farmanimalrefuge/] Mikko's Choice: https://mikkoschoice.com [https://mikkoschoice.com] Human Animal's Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j [https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j]

Hooves, Heart, and Humane Care: Revolutionizing Pig Wellness with Emily Mohring

EP#09 | Emily Mohring is the pioneering force behind The More Method Group, a nationwide network of pig hoof trimmers dedicated to humane, stress-free care. From flipping pigs safely to rescuing neglected hooves, Emily shares her journey from farrier to pig advocate, revealing the shocking gaps in standard pig care and how her team is raising the bar. One hoof at a time. Dive into conversations about: 1. The "flipping method"—why it's safer than sedation or restraint 2. Social media myths (no, pigs don't "play dead" during trims!) 3. Rescue work and the emotional toll of rehabilitating neglected pigs 4. Building a business that trains others to uphold ethical standards 5. Pig intelligence—why they're more like "moody cats with PhDs" than farm animals Whether you're a pig parent, animal lover, or just curious about unconventional careers, this episode is packed with heart, humor, and a dose of reality about the challenges—and joys—of caring for these misunderstood creatures. About the Guest: Emily Mohring, Founder of The More Method Group Emily is a former farrier who revolutionized pig hoof care after witnessing horrific standards in the industry. With over 13,000 pigs on her books and a team of trained trimmers across the U.S., she's a vocal advocate for trauma-informed care and owner education. Follow her work on TikTok (@emily.the.trimmer: https://www.tiktok.com/@emily.the.trimmer [https://www.tiktok.com/@emily.the.trimmer]) and Instagram. Lesson Takeaways: 1. Pigs deserve better—many suffer due to outdated, painful trimming methods. 2. Humane handling = happier pigs. The "flip method" reduces stress for pigs and handlers. 3. Rescue isn't shameful. Emily's rule: "We're here to help, not judge." 4. Social media saves lives. Sharing before/after care educates owners and raises standards. 5. Farm vets are vanishing. Emily's team fills critical gaps in pig healthcare. 6. Pigs are emotional geniuses. Their intelligence and sensitivity demand respect. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 02:10 - Emily's origin story: From horses to pigs 07:01 - The "flip method" explained (and why it's not tonic immobility) 15:30 - Horror stories: Beer sedation, roped pigs, and why anesthesia risks matter 24:45 - Building a business that trains ethical trimmers nationwide 34:00 - Social media's role: Education vs. outrage culture 45:20 - Rescue work: The reality of 303 pigs and 750 lbs of food a day 55:00 - Why pigs are like "standoffish cats" (and Gary's adoption struggles) 01:04:00 - Biomechanical challenges: Pigs as "genetic dumpster fires" 01:15:00 - Emily's TikTok hack (and how to follow her new account) 01:20:00 - Rhino-trimming in South Africa?! Emily's next adventure Resources: Emily's Website: https://www.mohrmethodgroup.com/emily-mohr [https://www.mohrmethodgroup.com/emily-mohr] Emily's TikTok (new account): https://www.tiktok.com/@emily.the.trimmer [https://www.tiktok.com/@emily.the.trimmer] Emily's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilythetrimmer/ [https://www.facebook.com/emilythetrimmer/] Emily's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emily_the_trimmer/ [https://www.instagram.com/emily_the_trimmer/?hl=en] Mikko's Choice: https://mikkoschoice.com [https://mikkoschoice.com] Human Animal's Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j [https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j]

Rescue, Boundaries & Llama Camp Talk with Maddie Johnson

EP#08 | In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, Emma reconnects with her longtime friend and powerhouse rescuer, Maddie Johnson. Together, they dive into Maddie's wild world of solo animal rescue—from chaotic piglet arrivals to rehabilitating orphaned llamas—all from the comfort (and chaos) of her own home. Maddie opens up about the emotional toll of rescue work, the importance of saying "no," and how her large social media following is both a blessing and a burden. The two reflect on their craziest rescue adventures—including road-tripping to save alpacas, water buffalo, and a runaway zebra-striped horse—and how they manage compassion fatigue while sharing it all online. Whether you're an aspiring rescuer, a long-time follower, or just love a good animal story, this episode blends gritty reality with tender moments and will leave you laughing, reflecting, and maybe even crying. About the Guest: Maddie Johnson, Animal Rescuer & Advocate Maddie is a full-time animal rescuer who has saved hundreds of animals—including pigs, dogs, cats, chickens, rabbits, and llamas—right out of her home. Her work has been featured widely on social media, where she shares educational and emotionally resonant content about animal rescue, ethical consumption, and boundaries in compassionate care. Lesson Takeaways: 1. You can't save everyone—and that's okay. Focus on the lives you do change. 2. Saying no is crucial to avoiding burnout and sustaining long-term rescue work. 3. Sharing rescue stories online can amplify impact—but requires emotional boundaries. 4. Donation fatigue is real; platforms like Patreon offer sustainable support. 5. Animals teach us what they want—we just have to listen (even if it means letting go). 6. Goodbyes can be the most selfless act of love in rescue. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 06:00 - How Emma adopted Brian from Maddie—and started her own path 15:00 - Chaos of solo rescue and learning by doing 24:00 - Social media pressures and the cost of "yes" 34:00 - The heartbreak of dairy calves and power of sharing their stories 45:00 - Financial realities of rescue, Patreon, and donation fatigue 55:00 - Balancing public and private life as a rescuer online 01:04:00 - Road tripping with llamas, pigs, alpacas, and... zebras? 01:20:00 - Letting animals go: When love means finding a better home 01:30:00 - Adventures with horses, ethical decisions, and emotional closure Resources: Living with Pickles on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livingwithpickles/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/livingwithpickles/?hl=en] Living with Pickles on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/livingwithpickles/ [https://www.facebook.com/livingwithpickles/] Living with Pickles Website: https://www.livingwithpickles.com/donate [https://www.livingwithpickles.com/donate] Living with Pickles on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingWithPickles [https://www.youtube.com/c/LivingWithPickles] Mikko's Choice: https://mikkoschoice.com [https://mikkoschoice.com/] Human Animal's Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j [https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j]

Animal Soulmates & Pig Welfare with Dr. Abbie Viscardi

EP#07 | This episode is all about exploring the deep connections we share with animals and the ethical challenges in commercial pig farming with Dr. Abbie Viscardi., a PhD in animal welfare and host of the Animal Soulmates podcast. Dr. Abbie shares the touching story of her soulmate dog, Amira, a black lab she raised as a guide dog puppy before adopting her back. Their bond highlights the profound impact animals have on our lives, offering stability, love, and companionship through life's toughest moments. The conversation then shifts to Dr. Abbie's work in animal welfare, focusing on pain management for commercial pigs. She sheds light on the grim realities of industrial pig farming, including surgical castration without anesthesia, tail docking, and the psychological toll of barren environments. Dr. Abbie emphasizes the power of consumer choices in driving ethical change and offers practical steps for making more compassionate food decisions. Whether you're an animal lover, a pet owner, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode will inspire reflection on our relationships with animals and the systems that shape their lives. About the Guest: Dr. Abbie Viscardi, Animal Welfare Scientist & Host of Animal Soulmates Dr. Abbie holds a PhD in animal welfare and specializes in pain management for commercial pigs. Her research focuses on improving the lives of livestock while navigating the complexities of industrial farming systems. She is also the host of the Animal Soulmates podcast, where she explores the deep, often spiritual connections between humans and animals. Lesson Takeaways: 1. The bond between humans and animals can be transformative, offering emotional support and stability through life's challenges. 2. As pet owners, we must honor the commitment we make to our animals—they didn't choose us; we chose them. 3. Many pigs in commercial systems endure painful procedures (e.g., castration, tail docking) without pain relief due to lack of FDA-approved options. 4. Small changes in purchasing habits (e.g., choosing ethically sourced meat, reducing consumption) can drive industry-wide improvements. 5. Sharing facts about animal welfare—without sensationalism—can inspire meaningful change. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 02:00 - Dr. Abbie's story of raising and adopting her soulmate dog, Amira 10:00 - The emoional toll of returning Amira to the guide dog program 20:00 - How Amira supported Dr. Abbie through life's challenges 30:00 - Transition to Dr. Abbie's work in pig welfare 40:00 - The grim realities of commercial pig farming (castration, tail docking, barren environments) 50:00 - Why pain management for livestock is overlooked—and how to fix it 60:00 - The role of consumers in driving ethical change 70:00 - Small steps for making more compassionate food choices 80:00 - Final thoughts on honoring our connections with animals Resources: Animal Soulmates (Find it on your favorite platform): https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/animal-soulmates/id1725929728 [https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/animal-soulmates/id1725929728] Check Dr. Abbie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbie-viscardi-88254143/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbie-viscardi-88254143/] ButcherBox Ethical Meat Subscription: https://www.butcherbox.com/ [https://www.butcherbox.com/] Mikko's Choice: https://mikkoschoice.com [https://mikkoschoice.com/] Human Animal's Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j [https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j]

Animal Communication with Sue Hopple

EP#06 | In this fascinating episode, Emma sits down with Sue Hopple, a gifted animal communicator, to explore the deep and often mysterious connections between humans and animals. Sue shares her lifelong ability to communicate with animals telepathically, offering insights into their thoughts, emotions, and past experiences. From her earliest memories of hearing animals as a child to her professional work helping pet owners understand their companions, Sue's stories are both enlightening and heartwarming. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this conversation will challenge your perceptions and deepen your appreciation for the bonds we share with animals. About the Guest: Sue Hopple, Animal Communicator Sue Hopple has been communicating with animals since she was a child, discovering her unique gift at just four years old. With decades of experience, she helps pet owners understand their animals' needs, behaviors, and emotions through telepathic communication. Sue's work has provided clarity and healing for countless animals and their humans, offering a bridge between species that fosters deeper connections. She emphasizes the importance of listening, intuition, and respecting animals as sentient beings with their own perspectives. Lesson Takeaways: 1. Animals communicate telepathically through feelings, images, and brief messages. 2. Listening to animals can transform your relationship with them. 3. Trauma and past experiences shape animal behavior, just as they do for humans. 4. Soul connections exist between humans and animals, often spanning lifetimes. 5. Trusting your intuition can deepen your bond with your pets. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 02:0 - Sue's childhood experiences hearing animals 06:00 - How Sue's parents reacted to her abilities 10:00 - The role of intuition and quieting the mind in animal communication 15:00 - How animals share their past traumas and preferences 20:00 - The concept of soulmates between humans and animals 25:00 - Sue's work with lost and rescued animals 30:00 - How animals perceive humans and their roles 35:00 - The challenges of interpreting animal messages accurately 40:00 - Stories of animals helping Sue refine her skills 45:00 - The impact of technology on human intuition 50:00 - How animals assist in healing and personal growth 55:00 - Final thoughts on the power of listening to animals Quotes: Sue Hopple: "Animals are so forgiving. They stay positive even when life hasn't been kind to them." Emma Davis: "When Sue told me Mikko and I were soulmates, it made so much sense—like our connection was deeper than just this life." Sue Hopple: "We all have the ability to communicate with animals. It's not magic; it's just listening." Resources: Sue Hopple's website: http://suehopple.com/ [http://suehopple.com/] Check Sue on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Sue-Hopple-Animal-Communicator-100077267274482/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/Sue-Hopple-Animal-Communicator-100077267274482/] Mikko's Choice: https://mikkoschoice.com [https://mikkoschoice.com/] Human Animal's Podcast YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j [https://www.youtube.com/@humananimalspodcast-w5j] Kinship With All Life by J. Allen Boone: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/798828.Kinship_with_All_Life [https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/798828.Kinship_with_All_Life]