Our planet is in crisis, and the way we treat animals is at the heart of the problem. Industrialized farming, deforestation, and climate destruction are all deeply intertwined with animal suffering. On the Better Life for Animals Podcast, Dr. Sailesh Rao, a distinguished climate activist and founder of Climate Healers, explains why compassion is the most powerful tool we have to heal both the Earth and its inhabitants. Through decades of research and advocacy, Dr. Rao unveils the urgent need to transition from a system of exploitation to one of regeneration and care.
Animal agriculture is one of the leading causes of climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. Dr. Rao highlights that our reliance on industrialized farming systems not only harms animals but also depletes natural resources and accelerates global warming. The destruction of forests for livestock farming eliminates essential carbon sinks, exacerbating the climate crisis. He emphasizes that the path to sustainability requires a shift to a plant-based lifestyle and a greater recognition of animals as sentient beings deserving of respect and protection.
The Role of Sanctuaries in Educating and Inspiring Change
One of the most powerful ways to bridge the gap between human actions and animal suffering is through the work of sanctuaries. Animal sanctuaries provide rescued farm animals
with a safe and loving environment where they can live free from harm. Beyond offering refuge, these sanctuaries play an essential role in educating the public about the realities of animal agriculture and the possibilities of a more compassionate world.
By witnessing animals in their natural state—free to roam, form social bonds, and express their innate behaviors—visitors gain a deeper understanding of their intrinsic value. Sanctuaries create an emotional connection between people and animals, inspiring shifts in perspective and encouraging more ethical choices.
The Importance of Grassroots Advocacy
While government policies often lag behind in addressing climate and animal welfare issues, grassroots movements have the power to drive meaningful change. Dr. Rao stresses the importance of individuals taking initiative in their local communities by supporting sanctuaries, advocating for policy changes, and raising awareness through conversations, social media, and public events.
Local engagement—whether through supporting plant-based initiatives, volunteering at animal sanctuaries, or educating others—creates a ripple effect. Every action contributes to a broader movement toward sustainability and compassion.
A New Game: Shifting from Scarcity to Abundance
Dr. Rao introduces the concept of transforming society’s foundational systems from one of scarcity and exploitation to one of abundance and generosity. He explains that our economic and political structures often encourage competition, leading to destruction and inequality. By designing systems that promote giving more than taking—such as sustainable food production, ethical business models, and community support networks—we can build a future where both people and animals thrive.
This paradigm shift is not just an idealistic vision but a necessity for long-term planetary survival. It requires collaboration across industries, governments, and communities to prioritize ethical and sustainable practices over short-term profits.
Taking Action: How You Can Make a Difference
The journey toward a compassionate and sustainable future begins with individual choices. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Support Animal Sanctuaries: Donate, volunteer, or visit a sanctuary to learn firsthand about the lives of rescued animals.
- Adopt a Plant-Based Lifestyle: Reducing or eliminating animal products from your diet has a profound impact on both the environment and animal welfare.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Read books, watch documentaries, and share information about the impact of animal agriculture on climate change.
- Engage in Advocacy: Join or support grassroots organizations working toward climate action and animal rights.
- Be a Conscious Consumer: Choose sustainable and cruelty-free products whenever possible.
Join the Movement for a Better Life for Animals
Compassion is a force that has the power to heal the world. By recognizing the interconnectedness of all life and making conscious choices that prioritize kindness, we can create a future where animals, people, and the planet coexist in harmony.
To learn more about animal sanctuaries, climate solutions, and ways to take action, visit BetterLifeForAnimals.com. Tune into the Better Life for Animals Podcast for more inspiring conversations and insights from leaders in the movement.
Every small step you take contributes to a larger transformation. Together, we can make a difference.
Episode Highlights
[00:00] Introduction
[04:00] Understanding the consequences of human actions and inaction.
[09:00] The ethical and spiritual side of veganism.
[12:45] People are caught up in stories and a system of destruction.
[17:45] A shift in mindset and environment.
[23:00] Restoring the environment to what it was is essential.
[27:30] The obvious solution to healing the planet and saving animals.
[31:45] Questioning tradition.
[34:00] The truth about the human species.
About Dr. Sailesh Rao
Dr. Sailesh Rao is a pioneering force in both technological innovation and climate activism. With a Ph.D. from Stanford University, he played a pivotal role in advancing internet infrastructure, including the development of the digital signal processing protocol for Gigabit Ethernet. However, in 2006, he shifted his focus from engineering digital systems to healing the planet, dedicating his expertise to addressing the urgent climate and ecological crises.
As the founder of Climate Healers, Dr. Rao has become a leading voice in advocating for systemic change to combat climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. A prolific author and executive producer of groundbreaking documentaries, his work highlights the deep connections between industrial animal agriculture, planetary health, and social justice. His relentless commitment to a compassionate, plant-based future earned him recognition as a Climate Hero by The Guardian in 2023.
Dr. Rao’s mission is clear: to catalyze a global shift toward sustainability, nonviolence, and regenerative living. Through his research, activism, and transformative storytelling, he continues to inspire individuals and communities to take meaningful action for a thriving planet.
About Cheryl Moss
Cheryl Moss is the host of the Better Life for Animals podcast, where she shares uplifting stories from sanctuaries and highlights the work of vegan activists, ethical consumers, and animal welfare leaders. A passionate advocate for animal welfare, she is dedicated to ending factory farming and is working to raise $100,000 for Mercy For Animals to support underrepresented sanctuaries.
Beyond podcasting, Cheryl is a banking professional and an accomplished children’s author. A graduate of Main Street Vegan Academy, she promotes plant-based living through her books—Gabriel, Cluck, and Pickle the Pig—which inspire young readers to embrace kindness, sustainability, and compassion for animals.
When not advocating, she enjoys Pilates, show jumping, and spending time with her rescue dogs and grandchildren. Through her work, writing, and activism, Cheryl continues to inspire positive change for animals and the planet.
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