The Hen Report: “People Don’t Want This” | Good News for Animals in a Sordid World

In a world seemingly drowning in sordid headlines, Jasmin and Mariann take a refreshing dive into some genuinely positive developments for animals. From chimpanzees finally escaping laboratory confinement to plant-based milk options becoming more accessible in schools, this episode serves up a welcome plate of good news with just enough irreverent commentary to keep it real. The hosts navigate through victories both small and significant while acknowledging that even in our deeply divided times, most people actually agree on one thing: the treatment of animals in our food system isn’t something anyone truly wants when faced with the unvarnished truth.

This episode explores:

• How activist pressure finally forced NIH to transfer chimpanzees from shuttered labs to sanctuary after years of unnecessary “storage” in terrible conditions
• A surprising silver lining in the “whole milk bill” that will require schools to provide plant-based milk options upon parental request—no doctor’s note needed
• Jamie Oliver’s unexpected endorsement of tofu as a “superfood” after visiting Okinawa, Japan, where it’s consumed at nearly every meal
• The groundbreaking seven-floor exhibition “Why Look At Animals” at Athens’ National Museum of Contemporary Art that boldly confronts animal agriculture
• The rapid expansion of vegan fast-food chain Mr. Charlie’s, proving ethical businesses can thrive while maintaining principles like hiring unhoused individuals and paying above minimum wage

RESOURCES

• • • Finally Free! Alamogordo Chimps Find Sanctuary at Last
    • Take Action to Release Chimpanzees at MD Anderson Cancer Center to Sanctuary
    • The Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act Has a Surprising Plant-Based Provision
    • Jamie Oliver Highlights ‘Important Connection’ Between Tofu And Longevity
    • Athens Exhibition Says the Revolution Could Begin on Your Plate
    • ‘Vegan McDonald’s’ Mr Charlie’s Announces Major Expansion

We are thrilled to expand the accessibility of our podcast by offering written transcripts of the interviews! Click here to read this episode’s interview.

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Check out Our Hen House’s other podcasts: The Animal Law Podcast, The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and the Antiracism in Animal Advocacy Audio Series.

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The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren.

Join hostesses Jasmin Singer and Mariann Sullivan on this unique and fun award-winning podcast that focuses on changing the world for animals.

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