Did you know that children who grow up with animals tend to develop stronger empathy and social skills? This insight forms the heart of Susan Hargreaves’ life’s work—a four-decade mission to make kindness and compassion the default, not the exception, for young people around the world.
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On a recent episode of the Better Life for Animals podcast, hosted by Cheryl Moss, Susan shared how she has dedicated her career to transforming how children—and their communities—think about animals.
A Legacy of Humane Education
Since 1980, Susan Hargreaves has been a pioneering voice in humane education and animal advocacy. As the founder of Animal Hero Kids and Be An Animal Hero, she has crafted dynamic, age-
appropriate programs designed to inspire empathy and action. From creating books and music videos to interactive school presentations, Susan has consistently found creative ways to instill the value of compassion in young hearts and minds.
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Her message is clear: we are one species among many, and it is essential to recognize the interconnectedness between humans and all other animals.
Making Compassion Mainstream
Susan’s mission to make it “cool to care” has never been more relevant. With plant-based eating becoming mainstream—42% of U.S. households now stock plant milks—young people are increasingly exposed to compassionate choices. Susan believes this shift is part of a broader movement where empathy is gaining traction, particularly through veganism and cruelty-free lifestyles.
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But challenges remain. Trends such as the resurgence of fur in fashion among younger generations highlight gaps in awareness. Susan’s work addresses this head-on by providing free educational programs and resources that encourage critical thinking and conscious choices about how everyday actions impact animals.
Animal Hero Kids and Beyond
At the core of Susan’s advocacy is Animal Hero Kids, an initiative that empowers young people to become champions for animals. The program offers free resources to schools, libraries, and community groups, supporting educators while engaging students in topics like animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and empathy.
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Susan’s approach is non-confrontational and inviting. Her initiatives don’t just educate—they inspire kids to believe that their actions can make a difference. By tailoring messages to different age groups and backgrounds, Susan ensures her programs are accessible, effective, and uplifting.
The Power of Storytelling: The Veganza Series
One of Susan’s standout projects is her Veganza Animal Heroes book series, which features vegan superheroes who help animals in need. The books blend activism and storytelling, introducing young readers to characters who model courage, kindness, and positive action.
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With figures like Veganza, Courage the Mermaid, and Freedom the vegan bodybuilder, Susan offers relatable heroes to children from diverse backgrounds. The series also includes practical tools like vegan recipes, FAQs on vegan living, and tips on replacing animal products. Beyond entertainment, these books serve as a gateway for families to explore compassionate choices together.
A Ripple Effect Across Generations
Susan’s influence is felt far beyond classrooms and books. Many of the children she reached decades ago have since grown up to become advocates themselves, including filmmakers and educators who now support her mission.
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Her ability to plant seeds of kindness that grow over time reflects the long-lasting impact of humane education. Susan knows that while the immediate results of her work might not always be visible, the ripple effect is undeniable.
The Road Ahead: Hope and Collaboration
Looking to the future, Susan envisions a world where compassionate living continues to gain momentum, despite industry pushback and misinformation. She predicts growth in vegan food
accessibility and affordability, further normalizing plant-based choices.
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Susan is also deeply aware that collective action is key. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration among advocates, creators, and educators. Whether it’s through volunteering, donating, or amplifying messages on social media, Susan encourages everyone to contribute in their own way to creating a kinder world.
How You Can Help
Susan’s organization operates as a volunteer-driven nonprofit, providing free programs and resources globally. Support can take many forms—from reviewing and purchasing books on Amazon to volunteering skills in media, art, or education.
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To learn more about Susan’s work or to get involved, visit BeAnAnimalHero.org or AnimalHeroKids.org. Whether you’re an educator, parent, artist, or simply someone who cares, there are countless ways to help nurture empathy and kindness in future generations.
Episode Highlights
[00:00] Introduction
[03:30] Cool to Care!
[08:00] Realization opens Pandora’s Box.
[12:50] Engaging youth to open up compassion.
[19:50] Rising from the ashes… Phoenix learns compassion.
[24:30] Awarding Animal Heroes.
[29:15] Knowledge of animals is door that has been opened that can’t be shut.
[32:30] Helping the Be An Animal Hero cause.
About Susan Hargreaves
Susan Hargreaves is a trailblazing animal advocate, educator, and activist with over 40 years dedicated to humane education and empowering individuals to take action for all species. As the founder of Animal Hero Kids, she inspires and equips young people to be changemakers in the fight against animal cruelty. Her work has been recognized by global icons like Jane Goodall, Michelle Obama, and Paul McCartney, and has been featured in major media outlets and award-winning documentaries.
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An accomplished author, Susan’s book Veganza Animal Heroes became a #1 Amazon New Release, and she continues to spread her message through speaking engagements, activism, and cruelty-free education programs. With a vision of creating an educational center that fosters compassion, she remains committed to making the world a kinder place for animals. Learn more at BEanAnimalHero.org
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.
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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.
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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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