Most people consider themselves compassionate, yet their daily choices unknowingly contribute to immense suffering. The reality of animal agriculture is hidden behind sanitized labels and marketing strategies designed to keep consumers in the dark. But what happens when the truth is revealed? When the veil is lifted and we see the pain our choices inflict on sentient beings?
Dr. Angela Crawford, a psychologist, vegan educator, and author, knows this burden well—and she has dedicated her life to helping others navigate the emotional and ethical awakening that comes with it.
In this episode of the Better Life for Animals podcast, hosted by Cheryl Moss, Dr. Crawford goes deep into the life-changing journey of embracing veganism. Her upcoming book, The
Vegan Transformation: A Journey to Heal Yourself and the World, explores the profound emotional, psychological, and ethical shifts that occur when people choose to live in alignment with their values.
From Unawareness to Awakening
Dr. Crawford’s transition to a plant-based lifestyle was not immediate. Like many, she grew up believing that eating animals was necessary for survival. Raised in the Midwest, she was surrounded by cultural norms that reinforced this idea. “I had no idea about factory farms,” she admitted. “I just saw cows in fields, not the suffering behind closed doors.”
It wasn’t until she started learning about the realities of animal agriculture that she realized how deeply disconnected society is from the truth. “Many of us are compassionate and don’t even realize how our food choices impact animals,” she said. “Once I understood that, I couldn’t turn back.”
The Burden of Knowing
With awareness comes responsibility. Dr. Crawford describes the emotional weight of knowing the truth as both a gift and a challenge. “It’s painful to realize the extent of suffering that exists,” she shared, “but I would never trade this awareness for ignorance.”
The struggle of carrying this knowledge is something many new vegans experience—what psychologist and author Claire Mann calls the burden of knowing. The more one learns, the harder it becomes to witness the indifference of the world. Dr. Crawford emphasizes the importance of self-care and resilience to avoid burnout. “Compassion is healing when we include ourselves in the circle of care,” she explained. “We have to nurture ourselves as much as we advocate for others.”
Finding Fulfillment in Advocacy
Veganism is more than just a diet—it’s a shift in perspective that transforms every aspect of life. Through her research, Dr. Crawford found that most vegans report experiencing:
- A Stronger Connection to Their Values – No longer feeling internal conflict over their choices.
- Expanded Compassion – A deepened sense of empathy for all living beings.
- Greater Purpose – The fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with ethical beliefs.
“Being fulfilled doesn’t mean being happy all the time,” she noted. “It means having the courage to face difficult truths and act accordingly.”
Breaking Free in a Non-Vegan World
One of the biggest challenges for new vegans is navigating a world that is not yet vegan. Social situations, family gatherings, and cultural traditions can make it difficult to stay committed. Dr. Crawford offered these key strategies:
- Know Your ‘Why’ – Have a clear reason that keeps you grounded in your choice.
- Educate Yourself – Read, watch, and listen to resources that reinforce your commitment.
- Find a Support System – Connect with other vegans to stay encouraged.
- Practice Self-Compassion – Acknowledge that the journey is challenging, but worth it.
“Every step toward veganism is better than none,” she reminded listeners. “You don’t have to be perfect—just committed to doing better.”
Creating a Compassionate Future
When considering how individuals can contribute to a more compassionate world, Dr. Crawford’s message was clear: “Live as compassionately as you can. Move toward a vegan lifestyle and find your unique way to advocate.”
Her book, The Vegan Transformation, delves deeper into this journey, offering research-based insights and practical strategies to help individuals make the shift. For those interested, it is available for pre-order at AngelaCrawfordPhD.com, with special bonuses for early buyers.
Join the Movement
The Better Life for Animals podcast continues to shed light on the inspiring individuals working to create a kinder world. Listeners can subscribe to the podcast, visit BetterLifeForAnimals.com/podcast, and take meaningful action in their own lives.
By choosing compassion, education, and intentional action, each person has the power to create a ripple effect of kindness—one that extends far beyond their own plate.
Episode Highlights
[00:00] Introduction
[05:20] Becoming Vegan Was a Process
[09:10] The Layers That Unravel the Truth
[14:20] The Vegan Transformation Reveals the Top 3 Motivators for Going Vegan
[21:00] An Important Step for Anyone Who Wants to Transition to Veganism
[25:00] What Is Your Heart Calling You to Do?
[27:00] Living in Peace By Your Food Choices.
About Angela Crawford, Ph.D.
Angela Crawford, Ph.D. is a psychologist, vegan educator, and author of The Vegan Transformation: A Journey to Heal Yourself and the World (Lantern, April 2025). She is passionate about empowering people toward plant-powered living for physical, mental, and emotional health; compassion for all sentient beings; and caring for our planet.
She speaks and teaches about thriving emotionally and socially as a vegan, the connection between food and mood, overcoming barriers to lifestyle change, and values alignment and compassion. Dr. Crawford previously worked as a psychotherapist for 25 years, empowering clients toward greater holistic well-being. She holds certifications as a Master Vegan Lifestyle Coach and Educator, licensed PCRM Food for Life instructor, and Transformational Coach.
She is passionate about the power of personal transformation to create a more fulfilling, healthy, and purposeful life – and a kinder, more sustainable world.
Social media links: @angelacrawfordphd on Facebook and Instagram and LinkedIn
For more information about The Vegan Transformation: A Journey to Heal Yourself and the World (Lantern, April 2025): https://angelacrawfordphd.com/book/
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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