Megan Hunter is a passionate advocate from Mercy for Animals, who in this episode, shares their remarkable transition from physical Therapy and emergency dispatching to championing animal welfare and sustainable agriculture. Megan recounts how early experiences with animal rescue and an interest in preventative medicine fueled their drive to reduce suffering and promote systemic change. Influenced by leading figures, they now serve as the Transformation Midwest Coordinator, working to create a more just and sustainable food system.

Throughout our discussion, we spotlight the transformative efforts empowering farmers stuck in the contract farming system. We explore the practical challenges they face and the innovative solutions being offered. Listen to inspiring stories of farmers who have shifted from factory farming to sustainable practices like greenhouse farming and specialty mushroom cultivation. These transitions not only help farmers regain control over their livelihoods but also enable them to make positive contributions to their communities and the environment. This point comes up A LOT when you bring up veganism and Megan does a great job of explaining it all.

We also delve into the broader implications of supporting farmers and transforming our food system. Explore how systemic issues prioritize profit over well-being and the role of community connections through farmers’ markets and CSAs in fostering a more equitable food landscape. We discuss the critical support provided by the Transformation Project, which offers technical and financial assistance to farmers, encouraging innovation and solidarity. It’s seriously such a cool program!

Finally, we address the environmental and social injustices of factory farming and highlight the benefits of a predominantly plant-based Diet for both human health and sustainability. Tune in to understand the importance of aligning personal practices with broader environmental goals and fostering community-driven change.

Guest Bio:

Megan Hunter is the Midwest coordinator for Transfarmation. Born and raised in the Midwest, Megan has a background in telecommunications and worked as a 911 emergency dispatcher in rural Indiana for over six years. She lives in Ossian, Indiana, with her family and two cats. As a previous first responder, she values approaching obstacles with compassion and a problem-solving mindset. Megan enjoys connecting people with diverse backgrounds to resources that fit their needs. She is involved with onboarding new Transfarmation farmers, developing resources to support existing ones, and providing R&I grant and administrative support.

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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!