Curious Vedanth

Vedanth Nuggehalli

A fireplace chat hosted by a curious secondary school kid. Every few weeks, I interview different guests about their lives. 

  1. Animal Welfare and Ethical Tourism in Thailand with Wichapayat Piromsan

    08/24/2024

    Animal Welfare and Ethical Tourism in Thailand with Wichapayat Piromsan

    Send us a text Can exploiting animals for entertainment ever be justified? Join our conversation with Wichapayat Piromsan, a leading animal rights activist in Thailand, who brings to light the critical issue of animal welfare in the country. We start by celebrating the vibrant culture and culinary diversity of Thailand, particularly Bangkok, where Wich shares her personal experiences and the unique blend of flavours influenced by neighbouring cuisines. Transitioning to the heart of the matter, Wich provides a harrowing account of the exploitation of elephants and other animals for tourism and entertainment. She highlights the dire conditions at places like Chatuchak Weekend Market and the tragic fire that claimed the lives of many animals, emphasizing the pressing need for stricter animal welfare standards. We also delve into the complex relationship between Buddhism's teachings on non-violence and the prevalent meat consumption in Thailand, exploring the societal and economic challenges in promoting broader animal welfare. Our discussion doesn't stop there; we turn our focus to sustainable solutions. Learn about Madre Brava's mission to combat climate change and enhance public health through a plant-based diet. Wich shares her journey towards veganism, influenced by childhood experiences and pivotal moments. We also provide guidance on ethical tourism, recommending reputable sanctuaries like Elephant Nature Park and Phuket Elephant Sanctuary. Wrap up with tips for tourists wishing to support animal welfare while enjoying Thailand, and stay connected with the Curious Vedant podcast for more eye-opening episodes. Follow my Facebook page to get updates on upcoming episodes. https://www.facebook.com/curiousvedanth/ To listen to earlier episodes, visit curiousvedanth.com To listen at leisure on your phone and get notified about future episodes, subscribe by searching for 'Curious Vedanth' wherever you get podcasts, such as Apple Podcast, Stitcher, Spotify, YouTube, etc.

    42 min
  2. From Curiosity to Activism: Aaron Ross's Journey in Animal Rights and The Humane League

    08/10/2024

    From Curiosity to Activism: Aaron Ross's Journey in Animal Rights and The Humane League

    Send us a text Season 6 Episode 23: What drives someone to dedicate their life to animal rights activism? Aaron Ross, Senior Vice President of Policy and Strategy at The Humane League, shares his compelling journey from high school curiosity to becoming a prominent figure in the animal rights movement. Learn how Aaron's initial questions about the ethics of consuming different animals led him to a vegetarian lifestyle and the foundation of local animal rights organizations. Hear his personal stories of overcoming skepticism and witnessing the evolution of societal attitudes towards animal welfare. Delve into the history and growth of The Humane League, an organization that started with a franchise model in 2005 and has since become a key player in corporate animal welfare campaigns. Aaron discusses the pivotal moments, strategic shifts, and the role of influential leaders like David Coman-Hidy in transforming the movement from grassroots activism into a professional, pragmatic effort. Understand the challenges faced as the movement scaled up, particularly after receiving significant funding around 2016, and how the focus on farmed animals, especially chickens, has led to impactful cage-free campaigns. Discover the surprising link between jiu-jitsu and activism as Aaron shares how the principles of the sport have influenced his advocacy work. Learn about the prevalence of veganism among world champion jiu-jitsu practitioners and the potential benefits of a plant-based diet for athletes. Aarons episode on How I Learned To Love Shrimp is a podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/sg/podcast/how-i-learned-to-love-shrimp/id1679799929?i=1000645240183 Follow my Facebook page to get updates on upcoming episodes. https://www.facebook.com/curiousvedanth/ To listen to earlier episodes, visit curiousvedanth.com To listen at leisure on your phone and get notified about future episodes, subscribe by searching for 'Curious Vedanth' wherever you get podcasts, such as Apple Podcast, Stitcher, Spotify, YouTube, etc.

    44 min
  3. Shifting Perspectives: The Role of Education in Animal Rights and Law

    06/08/2024

    Shifting Perspectives: The Role of Education in Animal Rights and Law

    Send us a text Season 6 Episode 22: Can education change the way we see animals? Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with Ankita Shanker, a leading social entrepreneur and legal researcher in public international law, animal law, and legal philosophy. We explore the complexities of animal law, diving deep into the legal status of animals and the pressing need for science-based legislation to protect their rights. Ankita sheds light on how different countries handle animal protection and the ongoing efforts to improve these laws, offering insights into the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of legal frameworks. What if animals had the same rights as humans? Ankita challenges historical misconceptions about animal pain and highlights how modern science is reshaping our understanding of animal sentience. We discuss the societal and legislative shifts driving the rise of veganism and stronger animal rights movements. Personal anecdotes reveal the social and health benefits of a plant-based lifestyle. Finally, Ankita offers invaluable advice for aspiring social justice advocates, emphasizing the importance of passion, a solid support system, and maintaining healthy habits while balancing career and personal life. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about animal rights and social justice. Follow my Facebook page to get updates on upcoming episodes. https://www.facebook.com/curiousvedanth/ To listen to earlier episodes, visit curiousvedanth.com To listen at leisure on your phone and get notified about future episodes, subscribe by searching for 'Curious Vedanth' wherever you get podcasts, such as Apple Podcast, Stitcher, Spotify, YouTube, etc.

    59 min
  4. From Backyard Ducks to Global Animal Advocacy: Leah Garcés' Inspiring Journey

    06/02/2024

    From Backyard Ducks to Global Animal Advocacy: Leah Garcés' Inspiring Journey

    Send us a text Season 6 Episode 21: Ever wondered how childhood moments can ignite a lifelong passion for animal advocacy? Listen to Leah Garcés recount her journey from watching wild ducks in her Florida backyard to leading Mercy for Animals as CEO and president. Leah's fascinating shift from studying to be a veterinarain  to tackling social justice and environmental impacts offers profound insights into the interconnectedness of our world. From her early activism spurred by a documentary at age 15 to now confronting the pressing challenges of a growing human population and animal exploitation, Leah's narrative is both inspiring and educational. Discover how Mercy for Animals drives institutional and cultural changes, exemplified by their successful campaigns for vegan policies in LA County and banning cages in California. To listen to earlier episodes, visit curiousvedanth.com To listen at leisure on your phone and get notified about future episodes, subscribe by searching for 'Curious Vedanth' wherever you get podcasts, such as Apple Podcast, Stitcher, Google Podcast, Spotify, YouTube, etc. Follow my Facebook page to get updates on upcoming episodes. https://www.facebook.com/curiousvedanth/ To listen to earlier episodes, visit curiousvedanth.com To listen at leisure on your phone and get notified about future episodes, subscribe by searching for 'Curious Vedanth' wherever you get podcasts, such as Apple Podcast, Stitcher, Spotify, YouTube, etc.

    19 min
5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

A fireplace chat hosted by a curious secondary school kid. Every few weeks, I interview different guests about their lives.