Discover the transformative journey of our inspiring guest, Lauren Ornelas, who has been an unwavering advocate for veganism and social justice since childhood. Growing up in Texas, their initial empathy for cows sparked a lifelong commitment to vegetarianism, eventually evolving into full veganism after a life-changing speech by an ex-vivisector. Lauren’s deep-rooted involvement in social justice movements, such as the anti-apartheid initiative, set the stage for the creation of the Food Empowerment Project, an organization dedicated to tackling the interlinked issues of human rights, animal rights, and environmental sustainability.

Throughout this episode, we unpack the founding and mission of the Food Empowerment Project, exploring how it champions animal rights, farmworker justice, and the fight against child labor in the chocolate industry. Our guest shares candid reflections on the hurdles faced within the vegan movement, particularly the initial resistance to a more comprehensive focus. However, there’s a silver lining as younger generations progressively grasp these interconnected issues. We also delve into the guest’s early activism in high school and college, where they encountered both support and challenges, and highlight the pivotal role of Viva USA in shaping their advocacy journey.

As the conversation unfolds, we confront common misconceptions about veganism and discuss how ethical eating supports collective liberation. Our guest recalls the grassroots beginnings of the Food Empowerment Project, emphasizing the critical input from communities and the development of resources like a chocolate list and app to aid ethical consumption. Moreover, we touch on the essential practice of self-care in activism, underscoring the importance of balance and support systems in sustaining long-term advocacy efforts. Join us for an episode rich with stories of resilience, interconnected activism, and actionable insights for living a compassionate life.

Guest Bio: Lauren Ornelas has been a deeply involved animal rights activist since 1987 and is the founder and General Programs Collective Member of Food Empowerment Project (F.E.P.), a vegan food justice nonprofit that promotes veganism, champions the rights of farm workers, highlights the lack of access to healthy foods in Black and Brown communities, and raise awareness about the worst forms of slavery, including child labor, in the chocolate industry. Watch Lauren’s TEDx talk on The Power of Our Food Choices. Learn more about F.E.P.’s work at www.foodispower.org. 

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Music by Matthew Baxley

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Carly Jean Puch Podcaster

As I stumbled through the perils of answering the ultimate question, "what do you want to do with your life?" I knew somehow my answer would incorporate helping others. This translated into paths that, when I tuned into the universe, I realized were very connected. (Funny how that always happens!)

People are complicated, messy, and layered with identities. So is this space. I am a meditation enthusiast that sits in quietness every morning and a lover of blasting 90's hip-hop at full volume. I'm a gym rat and a yoga instructor. I am both learner and a teacher. We are all many things. Together we can make them all work.

I love to share all the things I'm learning along the way. Learning how to be your most fabulous self but being honest about how damn hard and messy it can be along the way lets you speak your truth. It allows you to best use your voice for the causes that matter to you. Let's get healthy and change the world together!