UNCHAINEDTV'S Truth Files with Jane Velez-Mitchell

Jane Velez-Mitchell
  • 4.8 (18)
  • News Commentary
  • Updated Daily

What if I told you there's a way to be healthier, save money, save animals, save the planet and be happier? If you like how that sounds, give us a listen. The UnchainedTV "Truth Files with Jane Velez-Mitchell" podcast offers you a new way of living. Our host, TV journalist and New York Times bestselling author Jane Velez-Mitchell, helps you turn on the lightbulb and jump to the next phase of human evolution. There's a peaceful, joyous, sustainable, healthy, fun way of living right under our noses. The secret is simple: don't look for it out there, practice it in your daily choices. You might say, the solution to so many of the world's problems is right on your plate. Visit: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse for more info.

  1. 1d ago

    BROUGHT BACK FROM EXTINCTION WHY REMOVE THEM NOW?

    Happening LIVE Saturday, August 29th, at 10:00 AM Pacific / 1:00 PM Eastern on the Action Hour Podcast. 🔴 Watch on UnchainedTV:https://watch.unchainedtv.com/action-hour Mexican gray wolves were brought back from near extinction. But now, some ranching, hunting and land-use interests argue that their numbers must be controlled. Are these endangered wolves truly recovering—or are efforts underway to remove them before their recovery is secure? Joining me are Claire Musser, Executive Director of the Grand Canyon Wolf Recovery Project, and Marie Buquicchio, a wild-wolf advocate and high school teacher. Tune in, learn what is happening and discover how you can take action. Action Hour Podcast is hosted by Lindsey Baker. #MexicanGrayWolf #WolfRecovery #WildWolves #ReintroductionProgram #EndangeredSpecies #ActionHourPodcast #UnchainedTV   What You'll Discover Jane Velez-Mitchell speaks with defendants Carla Cabral and Sally Zito following the dramatic court appearance. The case raises larger questions about open rescue, animal cruelty allegations and the legal risks faced by animal activists. UnchainedTV reports that controversy also surrounds an alleged prior relationship between the prosecuting District Attorney and the owners of the farm property—an issue the defendants characterize as a conflict of interest. The District Attorney's office was ordered to disclose information concerning that alleged relationship. "Going to trial is important so that we can present this evidence to the general public." – Carla Cabral Join the Adventure Hear directly from the activists at the center of this extraordinary animal rights trial and discover why its outcome could matter to the broader Right to Rescue movement. Listen now, share this episode and follow UnchainedTV for continuing coverage. Jane Velez-Mitchell is an award-winning journalist, TV producer and NY Times bestselling author who founded UnchainedTV, the world's premier plant-based streaming network. UnchainedTV offers 2,000 free documentaries, cooking shows, lifestyle and news programs. Download UnchainedTV free on mobile or TV streaming devices like Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Watch online: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse   💡 DONATION INFO & UNCHAINEDTV LINKS Thank you for watching! UnchainedTV is a 501c3 nonprofit. Our vision is a world where plant-based, cruelty-free, sustainable living is the norm—across food, fashion, science, and entertainment. You can help us spread this crucial message here: 👉 Donate: https://unchainedtv.com/donate/ Links: 🎥 WATCH for FREE: https://unchained.tv ✅ LEARN MORE / https://unchainedtv.com 📘 Facebook / janevelezmitchell 📬 SubStack / https://unchainedtv.substack.com 📸 Instagram / unchained_tv 🐦 Twitter / jvm 🔴 Reddit / https://www.reddit.com/user/Unchained_TV/ 📺 Rumble / https://rumble.com/user/UnchainedTV     TRANSCRIPT:   (0:00) Welcome to Action Hour. I'm your host, Lindsay Baker. (0:04) Mexican gray wolves were brought back from near extinction, (0:08) but now some ranching, hunting, and land use (0:11) interests argue that their numbers must be controlled.   (0:16) So are these endangered wolves truly recovering (0:19) or are other interests trying to remove them before their recovery is secure? (0:26) Today I have joining me Claire Mooser, Executive Director of Grand Canyon Wolf (0:31) Recovery Project, and Marie Buquickio, who is a high school teacher and wolf advocate. (0:39) Some people don't know how important wolves are.(0:43) And they might say, well, they're just getting rid of them because they're a nuisance or(0:48) they're, you know, they're causing problems.   (0:51) But really it's kind of astounding when you find out what wolves actually contribute. (1:04) One of the most exciting scientific findings of the past half century (1:10) has been the discovery of widespread trophic cascades. (1:15) A trophic cascade is an ecological process which starts at the top of the food chain (1:21) and tumbles all the way down to the bottom.   (1:24) And the classic example is what happened in the Yellowstone National Park in the United States (1:29) when wolves were reintroduced in 1995. (1:34) Now, we all know that wolves kill various species of animals, (1:38) but perhaps we're slightly less aware that they give life to many others. (1:46) If anyone wants to watch it, it's on my podcast, Action Hour podcast on Unchained TV, (1:53) and it's with Dr. Reese Halter, and we go into great detail.   (1:56) But I'm going to ask both of you, I'll start with Claire. (2:00) Can you talk a little bit about why wolves are so important in the ecological scheme of things? (2:07) Yeah, so our Mexican gray wolves, they're actually listed on a 10J listing right now. (2:11) And so they're actually down as being non-essential and experimental.   (2:17) So what the agencies say is that, well, they're an experimental population, (2:21) so if they all die, then it doesn't matter, take it or leave it, we'll just start over. (2:26) And they've also listed them as non-essential, (2:28) which means that do they actually have any impact on the ecosystem? (2:33) Well, we don't really know. (2:35) But what you've shown in the film, How Wolves Change Rivers, (2:38) is that wolves do have a really important part to play.   (2:42) And a lot of the work that we do is talking to students about the ecological role of wolves,(2:47) because they keep everybody moving. (2:49) So they stop the grazers overgrazing on the riparian areas, (2:53) because when they do that, they're vulnerable. (2:55) So when the wolves are around, they will move on, (2:58) and it gives the opportunity for the plants to regrow and for the beavers to return.   (3:02) So the thing with our Mexican gray wolves, though, is we have such a small population(3:06) that it's really difficult to get the data to show what's going on on the ground, (3:11) because there's so many different factors. (3:13) And Yellowstone is great because it's like this ecological hub, (3:17) it's like this, you know, this living lab, if you like, (3:20) where all of these scientists can come together. (3:23) And so it is a lot more difficult for us to get that kind of evidence in Arizona.   (3:27) But just because we don't know exactly what's going on (3:30) doesn't mean to say that it isn't happening. (3:33) And we know from Yellowstone that wolves are important. (3:35) It's really easy, especially with the agencies and the narrative that they put out (3:40) to tell the story that they want everybody to know.   (3:44) So in breeding, our Mexican gray wolves is closely related to each other as a brother and sister. (3:49) And we know that we're not collecting the data on what that actually means. (3:54) So I've spoken to people that work in the SAFE program, (3:58) and it looks like instances of nasal cancer are higher in Mexican gray wolves.   (4:03) We also see other instances where, I can't remember the actual scientific term for it, (4:08) but it's where their pads fuse together. (4:11) And so we've seen wolves that have these conditions out there on the landscape. (4:16) So because we're not collecting that data, (4:18) we can't turn around and then turn around and say, well, this isn't an issue.   (4:23) If you're as closely related as brother and sister, (4:26) and you're an experimental population, (4:27) if something does sweep through the wild population, (4:30) then yes, then they're just going to go, okay, we can turn around and we can start over. (4:34) And also what they're also showing with this is (4:38) they want Mexican gray wolves to stay in this designated area, (4:43) which is south of the I-40. (4:45) And what we're not doing, (4:47) and that's part of the system that we're working in, (4:49) is we're not giving the opportunity to learn from the wolves themselves.   (4:52) So we know that wolves want to disperse. (4:54) We know that if we have wolves coming down from Colorado, (4:58) that that will actually be genetic recovery. (5:02) Whereas because of the language and how the agencies are set up, (5:07) they are putting out the narrative that that is going to be called genetic swamping.   (5:11) But what we're saying is there was a natural buffer. (5:13) And with wolf recovery, the thing that I struggle with the most is (5:17) we keep talking about recovery as this magic moment in time(5:21) that we want to get back to in 17 or 1800 and whatever. (5:25) But what we're not doing is we're not thinking about (5:28) what the future of wolf recovery looks like.   (5:30) There was a wolf quite famous, I guess, in his own right. (5:34) He had his own website and everything, Taylor. (5:37) And he kept crossing the I-40 and they kept bringing him back.   (5:42) I believe it was three times they kept bringing him back saying, (5:45) no, you have to stay on this side of the I-40, (5:48) even though he was trying to naturally do what they do. (5:52) And after the third time, they let him go and he ended up getting hit by a car. (5:58) So, you know, we lost his not only his DNA, (6:03) but we lost the opportunity to learn from him (6:05) what he could have done if they just would have left him alone the first time.   (6:09) And then we had a female wolf, Asha, same thing. (6:13) You know, she wanted to do what she wanted to do naturally. (6:17) And they kept grabbing her and grabbing her and grabbing her.   (6:20) And then they finally kind of locked her up with this mate. (6:23) And they kept her until she breeded and they were supposed to release her. (6:28) And they didn't release her until it was a ton of public outcry.   (6:31) And Claire could speak more to the details in that. (6:34) But this is what we're doing to our wolves. (6:36) We are forcing them to do all kinds of things that are not coming naturally to them(6:40) instead of letting th

  2. 1d ago

    Vegan Camp Out: The Plant-Based Event You Can't Miss

    Vegan Camp Out brings thousands of plant-based people together for an extraordinary celebration of vegan food, activism, music and community. In this episode, UnchainedTV's Jane Velez-Mitchell reports from England as approximately 10,000 plant-based attendees converge for one enormous vegan gathering. From incredible food to education, entertainment and advocacy, Vegan Camp Out shows what happens when the vegan community comes together on a massive scale. "Could this be the biggest gathering of vegans in one spot EVER?" – UnchainedTV What You'll Discover Go inside the festival and experience a celebration featuring major voices in the vegan movement, including Moby, Earthling Ed, actor Peter Egan, George Monbiot, Jamie Logan, Diane Morgan and Dr. Michael Klaper. The event features music, education, mind-and-body programming and a massive main stage. "This is SO HUGE." – UnchainedTV Join the Adventure Discover why Vegan Camp Out has become such a powerful gathering for plant-based culture and animal advocacy. Listen now, share this episode with your friends and join UnchainedTV in helping build a more compassionate world. Jane Velez-Mitchell is an award-winning journalist, TV producer and NY Times bestselling author who founded UnchainedTV, the world's premier plant-based streaming network. UnchainedTV offers 2,000 free documentaries, cooking shows, lifestyle and news programs. Download UnchainedTV free on mobile or TV streaming devices like Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Watch online: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse   💡 DONATION INFO & UNCHAINEDTV LINKS Thank you for watching! UnchainedTV is a 501c3 nonprofit. Our vision is a world where plant-based, cruelty-free, sustainable living is the norm—across food, fashion, science, and entertainment. You can help us spread this crucial message here: 👉 Donate: https://unchainedtv.com/donate/ Links: 🎥 WATCH for FREE: https://unchained.tv ✅ LEARN MORE / https://unchainedtv.com 📘 Facebook / janevelezmitchell 📬 SubStack / https://unchainedtv.substack.com 📸 Instagram / unchained_tv 🐦 Twitter / jvm 🔴 Reddit / https://www.reddit.com/user/Unchained_TV/ 📺 Rumble / https://rumble.com/user/UnchainedTV     TRANSCRIPT: (0:00) We are here at Vegan Campout. There are a plethora of options. (0:05) And we got gelato, we got iced coffee, we got churros.   I mean, really, anything you can think of, we got it. (0:11) Yeah, this place is f*****g huge. Like, it's crazy, to be honest.   (0:14) I've been to a bunch of festivals before, but this place is massive. (0:17) Oh, this is 11 out of 10. I mean, really, to get together, to be able to meet people that are dedicated to the cause, (0:23) people that want to make a difference in the world, and hang out and have fun for once, sign me up.   (0:29) It's Vegan Mecca. It's a yearly event where all the vegans from all around the world can come to one place, (0:35) be together, separated from the outside world, just for a little bit. (0:39) When I'm at home and I'm creating content, a lot of the time I'm by myself.   (0:43) So I think it's really important to go and socialize with other people who have the exact same mentality as you for animal rights. (0:49) You can see how the future might be. Like, what would festivals look like in the future when everyone's vegan? (0:54) They'd look like this.   (0:58) Welcome to Vegan Campout in England. (1:02) And I gotta tell you, we are at a social media influencers gathering. (1:08) I am here with the 40-year-old vegan, Lee The Free.   (1:11) Hey, guys. Welcome. Welcome here.   This is Vegan Campout 2026. (1:16) You can't believe all the influencers that we have right here today. (1:20) Amazing, amazing activists, kicking it for the animals, showing people how to do it.   (1:25) And we're trying to encourage you to get active for the animals. (1:28) Get out there, get live, and encourage other people to get live as well. (1:34) We've got so many vegan social media influencers here.   (1:37) So, listen, why don't we do this? (1:39) We're going to step out of the way for a second. (1:41) We're going to show everybody. (1:43) Look at this.   These are all influencers. (1:47) And these are the people who are literally telling the world about veganism. (1:54) And they are gathered here at Vegan Campout.   (1:57) So, I'm going to impose on you. (2:00) I'm going to ask you to grab an influencer. (2:03) And you know them even better than I do.   (2:05) And see if you can grab one to come over here. (2:08) I will. I will.   (2:09) You're a doll, by the way. (2:10) You're a doll, too. (2:10) You're a doll.   And we're having so much fun here at Vegan Campout. (2:13) I can't even begin to tell you. (2:15) The food.   (2:16) Oh, my God. (2:16) The people. You can put your shoulders down.   (2:18) And this is the future, guys. (2:20) This is exactly what the future looks like. (2:22) Everybody is kind.   (2:24) Everybody just wants the same thing, right? (2:26) We want animals to be out of this production system. (2:30) Seeing all the comments come in. (2:32) Hey, Tina.   How are you doing? (2:34) Yeah, it's been great. (2:35) It's been wonderful. (2:36) If you haven't attended a Campout, I highly recommend you get on the list next year.   (2:40) What an incredible event. (2:41) It's 10,000 people. (2:43) It is so huge.   (2:45) It's impossible to even wrap your mind around it. (2:49) So, you know, will you grab somebody? (2:52) Grab somebody who's a loud, obnoxious, loud person. (2:56) Because you can't hear anybody.   (2:58) We've had a lot of fun people on. (3:00) But we've had some soft-spoken people. (3:02) And nobody can hear them because they're soft-spoken.   (3:06) But I've got to tell you. (3:07) Okay, last night. (3:08) You have to understand.   (3:09) I'm going to show you. (3:10) The tents here are incredible. (3:13) Look at this tent here.   (3:14) This is one of the big tents. (3:17) And then over there is the other big tent. (3:20) There are so.   (3:21) It's huge, huge, huge, huge, huge. (3:24) And the music is extraordinary. (3:27) So, what I'm going to do right now.   (3:29) I know John. (3:29) Oh, John. (3:30) John.   (3:31) Oh, John Oberg. (3:32) John. (3:33) John, come on over for one second.   (3:34) Come say hi. (3:35) Hi, how are you? (3:37) It's so good to meet you. (3:38) We're live.   (3:39) And it's exciting to have John Oberg here. (3:42) One of my favorite vegan influencers who does so much. (3:46) And what you do is show people the truth.   (3:51) And every morning when I see you. (3:54) Whatever your video is. (3:56) I go, okay, I'm back in full charge.   (4:00) Oh, I wanted to go do something fun. (4:02) No, I'm going to go back and continue to work.(4:05) Because you are showing me the truth.   (4:07) And that inspires me. (4:09) So, will you lean in here and tell folks. (4:12) Of course, tell them your handle.   (4:14) Obviously, John Oberg. (4:15) And what you do. (4:16) Johnny.   (4:17) Johnny Oberg. (4:18) Lean in. (4:18) Lean in.   (4:20) Well, first of all, I just want to say. (4:21) To get that kind of compliment from the legend herself. (4:26) JDM.   (4:26) That means so much. (4:29) And, yeah. (4:30) So, my name is John Oberg on social media.   (4:33) I now go by Johnny. (4:35) But, you know, my handle was chosen like 15 years ago. (4:39) So, I'm stuck with it.   (4:40) And, yeah. (4:41) I basically just try to teach people how animals are being mistreated. (4:45) But also, to get people to see another side of animals that they otherwise wouldn't see.   (4:49) And to understand why they matter. (4:52) And why we should take them into consideration with our choices. (4:57) And I just heard one.   (4:59) And I'd like to hear from you as well. (5:00) I just heard one of the social media influencers, Danny O'Shea, saying. (5:04) He feels the carnivore movement has sort of like hit its crescendo.   (5:09) And is petering out. (5:10) And people are now going back to plant-based. (5:13) Which I certainly hope he's right.   (5:15) Does that sound right to you? (5:17) Yeah. (5:18) I mean, I feel like people can only fall for that BS so much. (5:23) You know, I feel like there's a cap to that.   (5:27) It just goes against science and common sense. (5:32) And what it really goes against is people's compassion for animals. (5:37) And luckily with veganism, it's how we can express compassion for animals.   (5:42) Yeah. (5:43) And let me ask you. (5:44) Tell me about yourself.   (5:46) And I want to apologize. (5:47) You're probably a huge social media influencer that I don't know yet. (5:52) She's huge.   (5:52) And I really, first of all, apologize. (5:56) But thank you for everything you do. (5:57) So will you tell our audience who you are? (5:59) And thank you for scooching up and just leaning in.   (6:02) So my name is Farah. (6:03) And I also make videos just exposing the truth about what's happening to animals. (6:08) And yeah, my username is Farah Amber.   (6:12) And yeah, it's just my biggest passion. (6:13) Making videos and making sure that they're packaged in a way that people watch online. (6:18) Because I think social media is so powerful for advocacy.   (6:21) Like we're both really passionate social media advocates. (6:24) And everyone should be posting on social media for the animals. (6:27) If you're watching this, that means you're on social media.   (6:29) Which means you should be posting on social media. (6:31) Because the animals have almost nobody speaking up for them. (6:35) And they need you.   (6:36) And you. (6:37) And you. (6:38) And you.   (6:38) And you. (6:38) And all of you. (6:39) And you should definitely follow her.   (6:42) Because she is a social media expert. (6:44) And provides lots of great tips. (

  3. 1d ago

    Goat Rescue Trial Takes a Dramatic Turn

    Goat rescue trial developments take a dramatic turn as four Direct Action Everywhere animal rights activists get a major break in a controversial California case. The activists faced felony charges after rescuing two sick baby goats, Phoebe and Celia, from Vera Goat Dairy in Northern California. Now, those felony charges have been reduced to misdemeanors, eliminating the possibility that the four defendants could face more than six years behind bars. "The charges have just been reduced from felonies to misdemeanors." – UnchainedTV What You'll Discover Jane Velez-Mitchell speaks with defendants Carla Cabral and Sally Zito following the dramatic court appearance. The case raises larger questions about open rescue, animal cruelty allegations and the legal risks faced by animal activists. UnchainedTV reports that controversy also surrounds an alleged prior relationship between the prosecuting District Attorney and the owners of the farm property—an issue the defendants characterize as a conflict of interest. The District Attorney's office was ordered to disclose information concerning that alleged relationship. "Going to trial is important so that we can present this evidence to the general public." – Carla Cabral Join the Adventure Hear directly from the activists at the center of this extraordinary animal rights trial and discover why its outcome could matter to the broader Right to Rescue movement. Listen now, share this episode and follow UnchainedTV for continuing coverage. Jane Velez-Mitchell is an award-winning journalist, TV producer and NY Times bestselling author who founded UnchainedTV, the world's premier plant-based streaming network. UnchainedTV offers 2,000 free documentaries, cooking shows, lifestyle and news programs. Download UnchainedTV free on mobile or TV streaming devices like Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Watch online: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse   💡 DONATION INFO & UNCHAINEDTV LINKS Thank you for watching! UnchainedTV is a 501c3 nonprofit. Our vision is a world where plant-based, cruelty-free, sustainable living is the norm—across food, fashion, science, and entertainment. You can help us spread this crucial message here: 👉 Donate: https://unchainedtv.com/donate/ Links: 🎥 WATCH for FREE: https://unchained.tv ✅ LEARN MORE / https://unchainedtv.com 📘 Facebook / janevelezmitchell 📬 SubStack / https://unchainedtv.substack.com 📸 Instagram / unchained_tv 🐦 Twitter / jvm 🔴 Reddit / https://www.reddit.com/user/Unchained_TV/ 📺 Rumble / https://rumble.com/user/UnchainedTV     TRANSCRIPT: (0:00) A slew of arrests in Northern California (0:03) as the animal rights organization Direct Action Everywhere (0:07) held a huge animal liberation convergence. (0:10) A smaller team of activists capped it all off (0:13) with a dramatic open rescue of two baby goats (0:16) from a factory farm south of San Francisco. (0:19) Goats they described as sick.   (0:21) Eye discharge, nasal discharge. (0:23) The goats, whom they named Phoebe and Celia,(0:26) were rushed away to get medical care. (0:28) Then, the activists returned to the farm.   (0:44) One activist tried unsuccessfully to show sheriff's officers (0:49) what he called evidence of an emergency, (0:52) necessitating rescue. (0:53) We can turn around in a second. (0:56) Coined the Goated Five, the five activists (0:59) were hailed as heroes by supporters gathered around them (1:02) as they were led away by authorities.   (1:14) That was back in May of 2025. (1:18) Four of those activists ended up being charged (1:21) with felonies that could have landed them behind bars (1:26) for six years. (1:28) And the breaking news we can tell you about today (1:31) is that those charges have reportedly been reduced (1:36) to misdemeanors, and Direct Action Everywhere (1:40) is calling that a huge victory.   (1:42) We've got two of the defendants here alive, (1:45) Carla Cabral and Sally Zito. (1:47) And Sally is with her dog. (1:49) No, that's not a goat.   (1:50) But that is her dog that we're holding, so he doesn't bark. (1:55) Tell us what happened.(1:57) You guys are smiling, so I assume the reports (2:00) that your charges have been reduced are accurate? (2:04) They are accurate.   (2:06) The charges were reduced to misdemeanors. (2:09) And I think that we have mixed feelings(2:12) among the defendants about how this is progressing (2:18) because it's not quite over yet.(2:21) But we were happy that this judge, (2:24) who has been extremely fair, this has been, in my experience, (2:29) one of the most neutral and unbiased judges (2:32) that I have been around.   (2:35) They have not been either swayed wholly by our side of things, (2:44) nor have they been able to be influenced (2:47) by the prosecution, in my opinion. (2:50) So I think that the fact that they came to this conclusion (2:54) after seeing the overwhelming amount of evidence (2:59) that we had of animal cruelty and the unfair nature (3:03) with which we were charged with felonies,(3:06) even though he originally said that he was probably going (3:09) to side on keeping them felonies, (3:12) he did ultimately reconsider (3:15) and change us to having only misdemeanors.(3:20) Yes, and that was a bit surprising that he did reconsider (3:25) because he seemed very firm on keeping these as felonies (3:29) as recently as this morning.   (3:32) And so we were bracing ourselves for that decision. (3:35) And then apparently upon reading some more of the evidence (3:40) and he said some very persuasive arguments from the legal team, (3:44) he said that he had changed his stance. (3:47) So it was quite a surprise.   (3:50) And so what I find fascinating is that you're not celebrating, (3:53) like normally someone would say, (3:55) oh my God, I'm not going to go to prison for six years. (3:59) The maximum with misdemeanors, I don't know what it is, (4:02) but it's certainly not a lot of time behind bars. (4:05) But you are more concerned with getting your story (4:09) out to the public and having your day in court.   (4:11) Is that correct? (4:13) Well, honestly, it's about having Phoebe and Celia's stories told, (4:18) letting them have their day in court. (4:20) We are simply the proxy, you know, (4:23) working as whistleblowers, (4:25) being firsthand able to witness what these animals are going through. (4:30) And after I had identified Phoebe and Celia as really being in need (4:36) of emergency medical care, (4:39) it really comes down to telling their stories.   (4:42) And you can see how many goats are on this facility. (4:46) You know, we heard reports of anywhere from 5,000 upward to 9,000 goats (4:53) on this dairy, none of whom are getting to run through grass (4:58) or eat leaves off of trees. (5:00) You can see that they're just in these dirt lots right there.   (5:03) You're looking at babies, right? (5:05) That's Phoebe right there who had feces on her. (5:09) Celia also had feces on her, crusted over eyes, (5:14) crusted noses indicative of severe respiratory infections. (5:19) Their abdomens were distended, (5:22) which can mean that they might be carrying a load of parasites.   (5:26) And, in fact, when I had retrieved some dead baby goats (5:30) from the large, massive dead pile on the facility (5:35) and had them tested at UC Davis, (5:38) we found that those babies had died from severe emaciation, (5:43) that they were lacking in nutrition, (5:45) that they did have parasites, respiratory infections. (5:49) And so when I saw Phoebe and Celia, (5:52) all I could imagine was that they were going to be in that dead pile next, (5:56) and we could not let that happen. (5:58) It just wasn't going to happen.   (6:00) So while we have this incredible news (6:03) that the charges have been dropped to misdemeanors, (6:06) there are other controversies. (6:08) I would like to play a clip from Direct Action Everywhere, (6:13) starring you and some of the other defendants, (6:16) where you talk about what you call (6:18) a conflict of interest by the prosecutor. (6:22) Let's hear it, and then we'll discuss on the other side.   (6:25) Guess who donated thousands of dollars (6:27) to the prosecutor charging us for rescuing goats? (6:31) The goat farm. (6:32) But wait, it gets worse. (6:35) Before becoming county prosecutor, (6:37) Sarah Hacker was the private attorney for this very farm.   (6:41) Meaning, Hacker's office is now prosecuting a case (6:44) on behalf of a former client. (6:47) Isn't that a conflict of interest? (6:49) Well, at least the sheriff's office got its wish. (6:51) And I need an exact amount for those goats.   (6:55) Are you recording? (6:58) Okay, I guess you caught that curse (7:01) by the law enforcement officer there. (7:04) So how did you discover this? (7:08) And what was the reaction? (7:11) Was it brought up in court? (7:12) Because you're saying it's a major conflict of interest. (7:15) In fact, it sounds like a major conflict of interest.   (7:20) Yes, I think what I understand is that (7:23) these are usually brought to the court (7:25) by the person who possibly has the conflict of interest. (7:29) So how we may have expected to have found out (7:32) would be that the DA would have revealed it to us (7:35) and the judge at some point to say, (7:37) look, just want you to be aware of this. (7:39) But I believe we found out through(7:40) a Freedom of Information Act request.   (7:42) Right, a public records request. (7:46) We had a lot of documents to go through. (7:48) And we were very surprised to see that (7:52) the DA had in fact formally represented (7:55) the landowners of this dairy (7:58) and did not disclose that to us.   (8:01) And in fact, one of the other things that happened today (8:03) was that we had a motion to compel (8:06) because we had asked the DA to provide information to us (8:12) about her invo

  4. 2d ago

    Could Animal Testing Finally End?

    Animal testing is facing a historic challenge as activists demand an end to experiments on dogs and other animals while new scientific alternatives gain momentum. In this episode of Action Hour, protesters in Thousand Oaks call on Amgen to cut ties with Marshall BioResources, described in the program as a major supplier of animals for research. At the same time, federal agencies are advancing New Approach Methodologies that could reduce or replace some traditional animal tests. "We know the science is against this, we know the victims are against this, and the public is against this." – Pete, The True Cost Project What You'll Discover Hear directly from activists with Direct Action Everywhere and The True Cost Project about the campaign targeting Marshall BioResources, the use of beagles in laboratory research, and the personal risks some activists say they have taken to rescue animals. The episode also presents Marshall BioResources' response, including its statement about USDA inspections and animal-welfare standards. "I'll do it with a smile on my face because every bit of it is worth it for the life of an animal." – Pete, The True Cost Project Join the Adventure Listen to the debate, hear the activists' stories, and decide for yourself: could animal testing finally end? Share this episode and help bring more attention to the rapidly changing conversation around animal testing and alternatives. Jane Velez-Mitchell is an award-winning journalist, TV producer and NY Times bestselling author who founded UnchainedTV, the world's premier plant-based streaming network. UnchainedTV offers 2,000 free documentaries, cooking shows, lifestyle and news programs. Download UnchainedTV free on mobile or TV streaming devices like Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Watch online: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse 💡 DONATION INFO & UNCHAINEDTV LINKS Thank you for watching! UnchainedTV is a 501c3 nonprofit. Our vision is a world where plant-based, cruelty-free, sustainable living is the norm—across food, fashion, science, and entertainment. You can help us spread this crucial message here: 👉 Donate: https://unchainedtv.com/donate/ Links: 🎥 WATCH for FREE: https://unchained.tv ✅ LEARN MORE / https://unchainedtv.com 📘 Facebook / janevelezmitchell 📬 SubStack / https://unchainedtv.substack.com 📸 Instagram / unchained_tv 🐦 Twitter / jvm 🔴 Reddit / https://www.reddit.com/user/Unchained_TV/ 📺 Rumble / https://rumble.com/user/UnchainedTV   TRANSCRIPT: (0:00) Welcome to Action Hour. Can this be the end for animal testing? (0:04) Wing Chun animal activists documented eagles inside a breeding facility's supplying laboratory. (0:11) That led to an investigation and then to a daring open rescue where activists carried (0:17) 22 eagles to safety, only for some of them to be taken back later.   (0:22) When they returned to rescue more dogs, they were met with tear gas, pepper spray, (0:27) and rubber bullets. The events now shine a national spotlight on the treatment of (0:32) dogs bred for laboratory research. Soon after, Rigland Farms closed and remaining (0:37) eagles were released for adoption through rescue organizations.   (0:42) Today, the movement has shifted its focus to Marshall Bioresources in North Rose, (0:48) New York, one of the nation's largest suppliers of animals for research. (0:53) Demonstrations are now taking place across the country. (0:57) This week, we caught up with protesters gathering in Thousand Oaks outside a company that (1:02) reportedly bought eagles from Marshall Bioresource labs last year.   (1:13) If at any point you feel two taps on your shoulder, you're still not in trouble, (1:17) but we'd like you to please leave the protest entirely. (1:22) Basically, one tap, take a lap, two taps, hit the road, (1:25) jam. You have this policy for everyone's safety, and if it happens, you're more than entitled to (1:30) have a one-on-one conversation with me in person or maybe on signal afterwards.   (1:35) I don't anticipate that happening today, but we just put that in place. (1:49) Tell us your name. Why are you here today? (1:51) My name's Tiffany Brunelli, and I'm an organizer with Direct Action everywhere in Los Angeles, (1:57) and we organize.   This has been a weekend of actions throughout the country, (2:01) and today's the last day. We needed to come today because they're only here during the week, (2:06) and we saw their inspection, Amgen's inspection report from 2025, and they tested on 22, (2:14) 23 beagles, I believe, from Marshall and about 122 rabbits. Not sure where those are from.   (2:22) We don't have the reports yet for 2026, so we're asking them to cut ties with Marshall (2:28) and to stop buying dogs from Marshall. How confident are they that they are going to (2:41) be able to take on this behemoth? You've heard the scuttlebutt around. Is everyone super confident?(2:49) Yeah, Wayne says one year and Marshall will be done.   Here is a statement from Marshall (2:56) Bioresources. Breeding animals for use in medical research in the United States is highly regulated (3:03) and subject to ongoing oversight. Our facilities are regularly inspected by the U.S. Department (3:09) of Agriculture to ensure compliance with federal animal welfare standards.   Our most recent unannounced (3:16) USDA inspection was conducted on May 26, resulting in a clean report with no citations or observations. (3:24) We also maintain voluntary accreditation through AAA LAC International, an independent (3:30) non-profit organization that promotes high standards, often stricter than federal law. (3:36) In addition to our programs, have earned ISO 9001 certification for quality management and (3:43) operational standards.   (4:01) Hi there. Hi. I saw your speech out there and you're leading the crowd.   By chance you have (4:15) a lot of energy and passion about this issue. Tell us why you're here today. Well i'm Pete (4:19) I'm with the True Cost Project and we are running a concurrent campaign against Marshall (4:25) Bioresources with Direct Action Everywhere, Beagle Freedom Project, and many other organizations (4:29) around the world, in fact.   (4:31) Both against MBR, Marshall Bioresources in upstate New York, and MBR Acres in the UK.(4:37) We know the science is against this, we know the victims are against this, and the public(4:42) is against this. (4:43) I understand that you were charged recently.   (4:46) Can you tell us about that? (4:47) Sure, I was charged with conspiracy and burglary. (4:50) I'm facing 12 and a half years in prison for rescuing one beagle that was ultimately one (4:55) of the Ridgeland Eight and taken back by police that day in March and brought back to Ridgeland.(5:01) So I actually don't know if he made it out.   (5:04) Oh, that's such a sad story. (5:05) Yeah, and I named him Tracker after my childhood beagle, Tracker. (5:08) He does have a name, nonetheless.   (5:11) So what are you, how do you feel about getting charged and what transpired? (5:15) Like, what emotions are you having? (5:17) You know, I feel like if we actually do time, I'll do it with a smile on my face because (5:23) every bit of it is worth it for the life of an animal. (5:27) Those animals didn't choose to be in the prison cells that they were in. (5:32) I chose to go in there and rescue that animal.   (5:35) And if in our unjust, injustice system, I wind up behind bars too, then so be it. (5:41) The noise that we created and the change that we made in the world is everlasting. (6:05) Cut dues for animal abuse! (6:13) There's never an excuse for animal abuse! (6:16) Wasting cash dollars are no excuse for animal abuse! (6:21) Worthless experiments are no excuse for animal abuse! (6:26) So-called scientists... (6:27) So you're with DXC, tell us your name and your position there.   (6:31) Yeah, my name's Dash Nye. (6:33) I work with the protest group of the Los Angeles chapter of DXC. (6:37) And today I'm also the Los Angeles press coordinator.   (6:40) Wow, so you've organized this whole protest here that's going on. (6:43) That was pretty good, organizing that and getting it going so quickly. (6:47) Thank you, it wasn't just me.   (6:48) I have a bunch of co-organizers and I always tell people, (6:54) even if you're familiar with Direct Action Everywhere, (6:55) I feel pretty lucky to be part of the Los Angeles group. (6:58) We have a lot of people to share the roles (7:01) and a lot of enthusiasm and passion as you can see today. (7:04) Yeah, so you've got a lot of support here in LA is what you're saying.   (7:07) That's correct, yeah. (7:08) So what is the reason you guys came out here today to this facility? (7:13) They're one of the largest biopharmaceutical companies in the world. (7:16) They are a buyer of Marshall Bioresources, specifically dogs.   (7:22) We have a USDA report that showed this facility, (7:25) this 1,000-ounce facility, tested on 23 dogs last year. (7:29) So we're here today to ask them to do the right thing (7:32) and cut ties with Marshall Bioresources. (7:35) The country is, frankly, shifting away from needless animal experimentation.   (7:40) And Amgen made $36.8 billion last year. (7:43) They have all the money and resources to kind of lead the charge (7:48) in this historic shift away from unnecessary tests (7:50) that, frankly, don't work the majority of the time. (7:52) There's this misconception that it does make advances for human health.   (7:57) A lot of that is due to lobbying activities (7:59) and sort of messaging you see from universities and laboratories. (8:04) But most people have heard that the NIH, (8:07) the National Institutes of Health, (8:09) has said something like 95% of tests that were proven successful on animals (8:14) completely fail human trials because it's not applicable. (8:17) And of the small fraction of drugs t

  5. Aug 10 ·  Video

    What Happens If Whales Disappear From Our Oceans?

    Protect our oceans before one of their most important species disappears. What happens if whales disappear from our oceans—and why should every person on the planet care? In this powerful conversation, Captain Paul Watson joins Jane Velez-Mitchell to expose the ongoing fight against whaling in Iceland and explain why protecting whales is essential to the health of our oceans and our future. "If phytoplankton disappears from the ocean, we die." – Captain Paul Watson What You'll Discover Captain Paul Watson takes us inside the dramatic confrontation in Iceland involving the Bandero, the Icelandic Coast Guard and the fight to stop whales from being killed. He explains how decades of anti-whaling activism have helped transform attitudes toward commercial whaling and reveals why whales play such an extraordinary role in maintaining ocean ecosystems. Watson also discusses climate change, marine wildlife, factory farming, fishing gear and plastic pollution—and why he believes going vegan can help protect our oceans. "The whales are the farmers of the ocean." – Captain Paul Watson Join the Adventure Discover why the fight to save whales is ultimately a fight to protect our oceans and ourselves. Hear Captain Paul Watson's extraordinary stories of direct action, learn about his philosophy of "aggressive non-violence," and find out how ordinary people can speak up for whales and marine wildlife. Jane Velez-Mitchell is an award-winning journalist, TV producer and NY Times bestselling author who founded UnchainedTV, the world's premier plant-based streaming network. UnchainedTV offers 2,000 free documentaries, cooking shows, lifestyle and news programs. Download UnchainedTV free on mobile or TV streaming devices like Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Watch online: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse 💡 DONATION INFO & UNCHAINEDTV LINKS Thank you for watching! UnchainedTV is a 501c3 nonprofit. Our vision is a world where plant-based, cruelty-free, sustainable living is the norm—across food, fashion, science, and entertainment. You can help us spread this crucial message here: 👉 Donate: https://unchainedtv.com/donate/ Links: 🎥 WATCH for FREE: https://unchained.tv ✅ LEARN MORE / https://unchainedtv.com 📘 Facebook / janevelezmitchell 📬 SubStack / https://unchainedtv.substack.com 📸 Instagram / unchained_tv 🐦 Twitter / jvm 🔴 Reddit / https://www.reddit.com/user/Unchained_TV/ 📺 Rumble / https://rumble.com/user/UnchainedTV     TRANSCRIPT:   captain paul watson speaks!  (0:18) At least at the door of the bridge. (0:19) You know, you know, you know. (0:20) John, John, John, let's go.   (0:21) John, now, at the door of the bridge. (0:24) Okay. (0:24) You'll be alright in a bit.   (0:42) Put the phones down! (0:45) Put the phones down! (0:47) Hands up! (0:49) Put the phones down! (0:51) Hands up! (0:54) Thank you! (0:56) Captain! (0:58) Uh... (1:00) Uh... (1:28) few days ago, tell us what exactly went on. Put that extraordinary footage into context for us. (1:36) Well, we decided we were going to, you know, have to focus attention on Iceland's continued (1:41) illegal whaling operations.   So I sent the Bandera to Icelandic waters and the object was to confront (1:48) one of the whaling vessels that came out. The problem right from the beginning was is that (1:52) Iceland put their entire coast guard on alert to stop us. And so they were providing our positions (1:59) to the whaling ships all the time.   That made it unable, we could not close in on them to confront (2:04) them. So finally I decided, okay, let's go right into the 12 mile limit and go straight towards (2:10) the whale processing plant and we'll head off the whaling ships that way. And that worked.   (2:13) As we went in, we saw the Havlar 9, one of the whaling vessels. As soon as it saw us, it turned (2:19) and returned to port fleeing and calling the Coast Guard for support. And the Coast Guard were (2:26) well prepared for this.   They had one ship, two aircraft, one helicopter, a so-called special (2:31) forces boarding unit. In fact, it couldn't have gone better if I had have scripted it myself, (2:37) because as the director of the Coast Guard, he said this was a real James Bond operation. So they (2:43) had a lot of fun with it.   But, you know, all of this was provided by the Coast Guard and helped (2:49) us to focus attention on Christian Lawson's whaling operation. Nobody got hurt. We didn't (2:55) actually break any laws.   So everybody overreacted and we got our message across. And Iceland is (3:03) right now debating whether they're going to join the European Union. And if they do, (3:07) they won't be allowed to kill whales.   So we wanted to put a lot of attention (3:10) on this whaling operation in Europe, especially. So you have 21 crew members. They were (3:18) captured essentially by the special forces unit that boarded their ship in such dramatic fashion (3:26) and they were kept on the ship for several days.   And then what happened and what is their status (3:34) right now, Captain Watson? Well, Iceland made a lot of mistakes. They detained the crew. (3:39) There were no charges.   They brought them into Reykjavik and confined them to the ship for four (3:44) days. They seized cameras, phones, laptops without warrants. They then took people to interrogation (3:53) without allowing us to have lawyers present.   All of this certainly helped us our case quite a bit. (4:00) And then after four days, the decision was made to release everybody and allow them to have access (4:07) to Reykjavik or walk about town if they wanted to. And then a few days later, the order says deport (4:13) everybody.   So then they deported everybody except for our chief engineer and one of our officers (4:18) to watch the ship. So there are no charges, but they were deported. We were trying to figure (4:23) out exactly on what justification was that deportation if there was actually no criminal (4:28) charges.   And we haven't been able to get an answer on that. So the bottom line, though, for the 21, (4:35) that except for one individual, they've all been deported out of Iceland. So they're no longer (4:41) in Iceland, just to clarify.   They're no longer in Iceland. Our chief engineer and one of our officers (4:48) elected to stay. And we convinced the Icelandic government that they needed to be there to take (4:53) care of the ship.   Otherwise, you know, the ship was at the mercy of the Icelandic authorities. (4:59) I want to show this QR code to those watching because so many people are outraged by this. (5:05) You can take your phone, put it on the QR code.   I did it last night and sent letters to something (5:13) like 17 officials in Iceland. For those watching, why is that outreach to Iceland officials so (5:23) important? The interesting thing in Iceland is about half the population is opposed to whaling, (5:28) half are for it. And there's a big division politically.   So there's one political party (5:32) that's opposed to whaling, another political party which is supporting it. And so we're right (5:37) in the middle of that. And certainly we're contributing to that controversy.   In addition (5:42) to our ship's crew, we also have a crew that's been on the ground for over a month and a half (5:46) and are still there. And that's our land crew from the Captain Paul Watson Foundation in the UK. (5:52) And what they've been doing and they've been doing it for the last few years is they document every (5:57) single whale that is brought into the whaling station to cite them for violations.   And we've (6:02) collected numerous violations, including one whale that was struck four times with a harpoon taking (6:07) over an hour to die. That's a violation of Icelandic law. We also have pollution evidence (6:14) from that plant.   We presented that to the Icelandic government. But there was no enforcement, (6:18) no charges. So the problem is, is that Kristian Lofsson is the wealthiest man and one of the (6:23) wealthiest men in Iceland, has enormous influence with the government and on the island.   And he's (6:30) the one behind the killing of whales. He's 80 years old. He doesn't kill whales for money.   (6:34) There's no money made by this whaling operation. It costs Lofsson between one and two million (6:40) dollars a year just to do it. There's no market for it to sell this whale meat.   It's just put (6:44) into warehouses and kept. And the reason he does it, he likes to do it. It's a hobby, pretty much.   (6:50) It's a very expensive hobby, but it's what he wants to do. And he's not going to have anybody (6:55) tell him what they can and cannot do. So this is really Kristian Lofsson exercising his authority, (7:01) his influence in Iceland.   And a lot of Icelanders are very upset with this. (7:08) Well, I have to say, we invite him on Unchained TV anytime. We would love to dialogue with him.   (7:14) We'd love to set up a debate between him and Captain Paul Watson. I have to say, (7:19) it doesn't make any sense to me. There's no justification for killing these whales.   (7:26) People aren't eating whale meat. Correct me if I'm wrong. We no longer need or could even use whale (7:35) products for fuel or the alternative to gas.   So you're saying that it's simply a hobby by one (7:45) rich individual, all this carnage? And the only market they had was Japan, (7:50) but Japan refuses to buy the whale meat from Iceland now because they say they don't need it. (7:55) There is a couple of restaurants in Reykjavik that sell whale meat, but one whale could provide all (8:00) of that. And strangely enough, the only customers that really go to this restaurant to buy whale (8:05) meat or to have a whale dinner are Americans and Europeans.   The Icelanders don't actually do it. (8:11) So it's really part of the t

  6. Aug 4 ·  Video

    What Is Costco Hiding About Organic Chicken?

    A new Mercy For Animals investigation raises serious questions about conditions at a farm supplying chickens to Costco and explores whether consumer expectations for organic animal welfare are being met. This episode of Truth Files with Jane Velez Mitchell examines the undercover investigation, the responses from the companies involved, and what advocates say needs to change. "A new investigation revealed the sickening reality of so-called organic chicken." Host Jane Velez-Mitchell speaks with Mercy For Animals about footage gathered during an undercover investigation at a North Carolina farm supplying Costco's chicken supply chain. The discussion explores allegations of animal suffering, the meaning of organic standards, and why advocates are calling for stronger oversight and independent auditing. The episode also discusses Costco's response directing inquiries to its supplier and the broader debate over retailer responsibility. Additional reporting on the investigation has been covered by Vox, providing further public context for the discussion. "Costco promised reform after our 2021 investigation." Join the Conversation What should companies do to ensure animal welfare throughout their supply chains? Listen, share this episode, and learn more about the issues discussed. Jane Velez-Mitchell is an award-winning journalist, TV producer, and New York Times bestselling author who founded UnchainedTV, the world's premier plant-based streaming network. UnchainedTV offers more than 2,000 free documentaries, cooking shows, lifestyle programs, and news features. Watch online: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse 🎥 WATCH for FREE: https://unchained.tv ✅ LEARN MORE: https://unchainedtv.com 📘 Facebook: janevelezmitchell 📬 SubStack: https://unchainedtv.substack.com 📸 Instagram: @unchained_tv 🐦 Twitter/X: @jvm   TRANSCRIPT: Shocking New Mercy for Animals Investigation into Costco Chicken Supplier (0:03) Live from the Unchained TV headquarters in Los Angeles, California, this is Truth Files with Jane Velez Mitchell. (0:11) A new investigation revealed the sickening reality of so-called organic chicken. (0:18) Our investigators spent weeks working at an organic chicken farm that supplies Costco and filming the horrors they witnessed.   (0:30) Baby chicks who were ill, injured, or just not growing fast enough were dropped into buckets along with those who had died, (0:40) and then dumped into compost piles, even though some were clearly still alive and chirping. (0:48) So disturbing, really heartbreaking images. (0:52) And by the way, this investigation is the subject of a major article in Vox entitled, (1:00) Costco's Organic Chicken Isn't What It Seems.   (1:03) A disturbing new investigation reveals how easy it is for farms to subvert organic rules and hide animal cruelty. (1:10) And now we're very excited to have on the president of Mercy for Animals, Arash Yomtobi. (1:15) Arash, thanks for joining us.   Put these disturbing images into context for us. (1:21) Tell us about your undercover investigation.(1:24) Well, thanks so much for having me, Jane.   (1:26) You know, Jane, in the 25-year history as an organization, (1:33) Mercy for Animals has conducted 150 investigations that expose the truth and shed light onto the practices of factory farming. (1:41) Now, I can't say that I've watched all of them, but I've seen many of them, (1:48) both in terms of what we've done as well as many other investigations. (1:51) And the footage and documentation from this latest investigation from a farm in North Carolina (2:00) raising chickens for Costco is really unfathomable and disturbing.   (2:04) From blatant animal cruelty to biosecurity and health-related issues being broken to USDA organic standards not being upheld, (2:14) even though these chickens were sold as organic. (2:17) But the biggest takeaway for those watching today is that this isn't just about one farm. (2:24) In fact, this is the second time in five years that Mercy for Animals has exposed horrific cruelty connected to Costco's chicken supply chain.   (2:34) Costco promised reform after our 2021 investigation. (2:38) We went back and animals are still suffering. (2:41) These are not isolated incidents.   (2:44) They reflect broader systemic problems within factory farming. (2:49) Well, we're going to get to Costco's comment and Pilgrim's Pride comment in just a moment. (2:55) But first, let's play part two of the video of your undercover investigation.   (3:00) Once they grew bigger, those who were sick or hurt got beaten with a pipe. (3:14) Thrown into piles filled with the dead. (3:18) And then dumped into the compost piles.   (3:21) Here, those still moving and making noise are beaten with a rake. (3:34) Wow. (3:35) Your undercover investigator said he documented more than 70 incidents of improper euthanasia, which sounds very clinical, (3:43) with the farm manager regularly euthanizing sick and injured chickens by bludgeoning them with PVC pipes and rakes.   (3:50) In one instance, he crushed a bird with a bucket and another slamming a chicken against a wall. (3:55) I mean, this is so disturbing. (4:00) It's almost hard to process.   (4:04) The speed in which they've been bred to grow, to be top heavy, to meet the demands for chicken breasts. (4:10) Many chickens were seen struggling to walk, many with broken bones.(4:15) And they endure chronic pain throughout their short lives.   (4:20) So, we are going to talk now about what Costco has said. (4:26) And by the way, you have a petition at CostcoExposed.com that you're urging people to sign. (4:33) So, let's talk a little bit about what Costco has said.   (4:37) We reached out to Costco, we had Unchained TV, and we invite them or anyone connected to the story on at any time, any companies. (4:45) But essentially what they said, and here's just a screen grab of the email, Costco Media Inquiry. (4:52) Good afternoon, Jane.   Thank you for reaching out to Costco and completing the media inquiry form. (4:56) Please contact Pilgrims with a website with your inquiry. (5:01) We appreciate your interest in Costco Wholesale.   (5:03) Please do not attribute my name to the information in this email. (5:06) Kind regards, and the person who sent this. (5:09) And Pilgrims, we also reached out to them.   (5:13) They issued a long statement. (5:14) Here are some of the highlights. (5:15) Pilgrims is deeply disturbed by the content depicted in the video footage collected at a farm operated by one of our independent contract growers.   (5:22) The treatment shown is unacceptable, violates our animal welfare standards, and does not reflect the values of our company. (5:29) Animal welfare is a core responsibility at Pilgrims. (5:31) We require all growers and their employees to undergo comprehensive animal welfare training,(5:36) and adhere to strict standards designed to protect the health and well-being of the animals in their care.   (5:40) In this case, a grower and certain farm employees failed to uphold those standards and ignored the training and expectations provided by Pilgrims. (5:47) Upon becoming aware of this conduct, we immediately terminated our relationship with the grower. (5:51) We're also conducting a comprehensive review of our animal welfare training and compliance programs, (5:55) and initiating additional third-party audits across our grower network beginning this week.   (6:01) Your response to the Costco statement, which simply directs us to Pilgrims and Pilgrims.(6:10) Yeah, dropping one farm or supplier is crisis management. (6:15) It's not animal protection, and it's not accountability to consumers.   (6:19) While Pilgrims' pride cutting ties with one supplier addresses a single incident, (6:24) it doesn't fix the fundamental problem. (6:28) And while actions taken at a single supplier may address one situation, (6:33) they don't resolve the broader issues that can exist throughout the entire supply chain. (6:38) Let me put this into context for you, Jane.   (6:41) This one farm is estimated to raise up to 520,000 chickens each year, (6:46) but Costco's influence extends far beyond a single supplier. (6:51) Costco's vertically integrated supplier, Lincoln Premium Poultry, (6:56) raises around 100 million birds per year and represents 40% of Costco's supply chain. (7:03) So without proper independent auditing and transparency, (7:07) if Costco or Pilgrims simply cut ties with this one farm, (7:13) the problem can just move to the next farm and the farm after that.   (7:17) And frankly, our investigation from 2021 just reinforces that. (7:24) What matters is whether Costco adopts enforceable standards (7:27) that follow every chicken in its supply chain, no matter where that animal is raised. (7:35) Consumers don't buy chicken based on the name of an individual farm.   (7:39) They buy it from Costco because they trust Costco. (7:44) And in fact, Costco charges and makes most of its profits from an annual membership fee, (7:49) which I'm a paying member of.(7:51) People pay that membership for the trust and consistency that Costco prides itself on.   (7:57) That's why Costco cannot outsource responsibility here. (8:01) Shoppers aren't tracking down which farm or processor supplied the meat. (8:07) They place their trust in retailers where they shop, (8:11) and they expect brands like Costco to set meaningful standards throughout the supply chain.   (8:18) All right, well, let's continue on with the Mercy for Animals (8:22) undercover video of this animal factory that supplies chickens to Pilgrim's Pride, (8:28) which in turn supplies them to Costco. (8:52) Never allowed outdoors, never breathing fresh air or standing in grass, (8:56) in violation of organic requirements. (8:59) This is the outdoor pen they never saw.   (9:03) Why is that so significant that they, according to your

  7. Jul 22

    Fight for Wild Horses

    America's wild horses are facing one of their most critical moments in years. From the proposed roundup of the Montgomery Pass herd in California's Eastern Sierra to nationwide policy changes that could affect wild horse management across the West, important decisions are being made now. Wildlife ecologist Craig C. Downer and Karen Sussman of the International Society for the Protection of Mustangs and Burros,  join Lindsey Baker to explain what's happening and why it matters. The discussion explores the science, the controversy, and the human impact behind helicopter roundups, habitat protection, long-term holding facilities, and current legislation. Most importantly, viewers will learn practical ways to make their voices heard and help protect America's iconic wild horses for generations to come.   TRANSCRIPT: Fight for Wild Horses (0:00) Welcome to Action Hour podcast. I have breaking news. America's wild horses need your help today.   (0:09) Major decisions are being made and hundreds of horses face helicopter roundups that could (0:14) separate families and send many of them into government holding facilities. Today I'm joined (0:21) by three leading wild horse advocates to explain what's happening. Let's talk to them now.   (0:27) Welcome. I'm here with Karen Sussman and Craig Downer. Both are wild horse advocates and I (0:35) would say experts.   They've both been advocating for wild horses for many, many, many years and (0:43) we have some breaking news for you today. We have action you actually have to take today. (0:50) Yeah, I gave my input on the 30th of June and this is a very serious proposal because it largely (0:56) exempts the public lands ranchers and the BLM and I guess it probably influenced the Forest Service (1:05) too from abiding by environmental laws and Wild Horse and Burrow Act when it comes to their plans (1:13) for the wild horses.   In other words, they're not valuing the wild horses and burrows (1:20) and they're letting the big monopolizers of the public lands call the shots and that's (1:27) outrageous. But why is it so important? Like what happens to the horses when they're rounded up? (1:36) Yeah, well they'll be eliminated pretty much from their legal areas or taken down to extremely low (1:43) genetically non-viable levels and they'll allow the ranchers to have even more of a monopoly (1:52) and the other interests in their legal habitats where they're supposed to be (1:57) the principal resource recipient. So they're really subverting the true intent and spirit (2:05) of the Wild Tree Roaming Horse and Burrows Act and ignoring the general public in this (2:11) wonderful quality of life issue by treating these wonderful animals as misfits and the truth is (2:19) they're all the opposite.   They're actually deeply rooted North American natives that (2:26) are wonderful restorers of ecosystems as a keystone species. It's always been, you know, (2:34) the cattle ranchers or other corporate interests come in and take over the horse's land that's (2:41) theirs but it seems like it's accelerated. Do you feel Karen that it has and if so why do you think (2:48) it's suddenly it's even with all of these action items we have so many things happening to the (2:54) horses.   Why do you think that's happening right now? Well I believe that it has been going on (3:00) throughout history where the cattlemen have always had a greater right to the land even though that (3:06) they have a privilege the horses have a right but this is continued but in this particular(3:12) administration they're very proactive cattle and what they're going to do is reduce all kinds of (3:17) regulations that the cattle people have to do in order to contain their keep their permits going (3:25) and there's going to be fewer regulations for the cattle when in essence there already has been for (3:32) years no regulations for cattle people. The BLM has been and the Forest Service has been negligent (3:40) in being able to monitor the habitat to determine who actually is doing damage when they find out (3:49) that the cattle are doing the damage they ignore it. Yes that seems to be the story that we continue (3:57) to hear and this like I said this has been going on and it seems to be accelerating we are not (4:05) Unchained TV is not a political channel or animal rights and conservation channel so we do not take (4:12) political sides we want to state that right now but we are not in favor of either side (4:18) approaching and I think both corporate interests on both sides have done so in the past.   Craig (4:24) yeah that's that's for the Montgomery Pass wild horse herd that's one of the most(4:31) pristine un-PCP'd, un-gonocond, un-castrated herds that's been studied for many years and it's a (4:42) vibrant vital herd that they're trying to gut this herd and I did an appeal on this and now (4:52) and we're doing we've done a TRO and so have two Native American tribes so it's not certain that (4:59) the roundup will start however I think it would be good if you contact the Inyo National Forest (5:06) and I've given you the the website and you just go on contact us and you can voice your opinion (5:14) and that's bound to to have make a difference if you're yeah I want to make Craig I want to (5:21) make sure I can bring up the right one oh here we are Montgomery herd correct (5:26) uh yeah I I sent you that yeah that's it right there it's up in the corner now so Craig as (5:32) Craig's explaining and talking uh tell us a little bit more about why they're picking on this herd (5:39) and what is so uh wrong with what they're doing the science behind it it's because we delved into (5:46) this both the uh the medical doctor and the professional nature filmer yeah Sherry Tobin (5:54) and Carl Mrozek and we discovered that this is kind of a setup against these animals whereby (6:02) they have excluded them from vital water sources and basically not given them any value in their (6:10) own right but they've paved into the mainly the ranchers cattle and sheep there are a lot of sheep (6:18) there and also to people who just use the wild horses as a political pawn to favor say game (6:28) hunting interests including there in California so it's really a terrible thing they're they're (6:36) trying to do they're trying to scapegoat the horses for all kinds of things just because they move (6:42) around and not taking any measures to take steps to avoid avoid these problems uh which (6:49) some common sense steps could be taken and and they could avoid these problems okay Karen can (6:55) you go ahead and comment on that well so just to remind you we're talking about the Montgomery (7:01) Pass horses go ahead right and basically it would be a simple a letter to the government to say (7:07) please save these horses from being rounded up when you round up these horses you destroy their (7:13) family bands and destroy them forever do not round up the horses right that's as simple as that they (7:21) have to get into detail they're just people who are concerned about these horses (7:25) just a simple sentence or two that's all they really need to say right and I want to just (7:33) just tell people how important this is to take these actions today now even if we are past the (7:42) date you're seeing this afterwards still contact them because once we raise that public awareness (7:49) or rather the our politicians once we raise their awareness that we are watching we see things (7:56) change we we just went through the Ridgeland Farms dogs and that lab closing so many things (8:01) happening when when activists take action so please those of you out there watching whenever (8:07) you see this please click on these links and take the actions we're talking about there's another (8:12) really devastating proposal which is to exclude the environmental oversight of the public lands (8:23) ranchers and the input on that is due on July 13th and that's extremely important because (8:32) if they exclude them from Endangered Species Act and National Environmental Policy Act (8:38) and all the other acts you know Wilderness and Administrative then that would give them even (8:47) more monopoly on the public plants in other words they would be totally calling the shots (8:54) for the BLM and Forest Service on public land ranching permits. Yes and with that one I've (9:03) also set up I believe a link which I'm going to put at the top all of these links of this (9:08) broadcast but if you scroll down in there you will see who to contact and there's even a little (9:15) paragraph of what to say because a lot of times people are afraid to speak but let me tell you (9:22) your voice has so much power I think a lot of people get intimidated and they shouldn't this (9:28) is so important. Yeah and if you've been there mention that that I go here and it's a big part (9:38) of my life you know for my quality of life and what it means to them personally yeah.   Okay we (9:48) want to move on so that we can cover everything and I will give you guys each a chance at the (9:52) end if we miss something that you feel is really important but Karen I want to put the focus on you (9:57) and the Heber Herd I know you've been really really busy so tell us what is going on and how (10:04) people can help you support you. Okay our organization's been involved in saving the Heber (10:11) Herd of Northern Arizona they're the really in my book the last herd on public lands that has (10:17) literally been untouched from roundups and from a lot of manipulation and it's been more than 20 (10:24) some years so in 2007 we filed a stipulation agreement with the Forest Service that they need (10:32) to manage them in three areas and so we have participated throughout all these years to make (10:39) sure that we can protect this herd and very interestingly just in January the acting (10:47) superintendent his name is Mr. Miller he

  8. Jul 22

    Animal Testing Crisis: PETA Sounds the Alarm

    🎯 Episode Highlights 🐒 Why PETA says endangered long-tailed macaques are still ending up in research laboratories. 🌍 How the global wildlife trafficking pipeline fuels the laboratory monkey trade. ⚖️ The legal battle to secure stronger protections for endangered primates. 🔬 A discussion of the ethics of animal experimentation and emerging non-animal research alternatives. 📉 Why conservation experts warn that long-tailed macaque populations are rapidly declining. 💬 Jane Velez-Mitchell and her guest explain how viewers and listeners can take action to help protect monkeys from exploitation. 📝 Podcast Description Animal Testing Crisis takes an in-depth look at the fight to protect endangered long-tailed macaques from the global laboratory trade. In this compelling episode, Jane Velez-Mitchell speaks with one of the world's leading experts on primate trafficking and animal experimentation to examine why these intelligent animals continue to be captured from the wild despite mounting scientific evidence of their declining populations. "These animals are in crisis." – From the transcript You'll discover why PETA is urging U.S. officials to strengthen protections for endangered macaques, how wildlife trafficking feeds the laboratory supply chain, and why conservation scientists are warning that long-tailed macaques face severe population declines. The discussion also explores the ethical questions surrounding animal experimentation and the growing movement toward modern, non-animal research methods. Recent investigations highlighted by PETA and featured on UnchainedTV examine allegations that endangered macaques have entered the U.S. research pipeline through illegal trafficking networks. "There is a war on monkeys." – From the transcript Join Jane Velez-Mitchell and her guest as they explain what's at stake for endangered primates and what listeners can do to help protect wildlife and promote humane science. Call to Action: Subscribe, share this episode, and learn more about protecting endangered animals by visiting UnchainedTV and PETA. Jane Velez-Mitchell is an award-winning journalist, TV producer and New York Times bestselling author who founded UnchainedTV, the world's premier plant-based streaming network. UnchainedTV offers more than 2,000 free documentaries, cooking shows, lifestyle, and news programs. Download UnchainedTV free on mobile devices or TV streaming platforms including Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Watch online: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse 🎥 WATCH for FREE: https://unchained.tv ✅ LEARN MORE: https://unchainedtv.com 📘 Facebook: janevelezmitchell 📬 SubStack: https://unchainedtv.substack.com 📸 Instagram: @unchained_tv 🐦 Twitter/X: @jvm     TRANSCRIPT: PETA Battle for Monkeys! (0:11) These animals are in crisis. (0:14) There is a war on monkeys. (0:17) They are being kidnapped from the wild for lab torture, and the U.S. government will (0:25) not admit that long-tailed macaques are now endangered, even though scientists are saying (0:32) they are endangered and they need protections.   (0:37) So we're going to go straight out to the person who knows more about this than any other person (0:43) on the planet, and that is PETA's Chief Scientist Advisor for Animal Experimentation, Dr. Lisa (0:52) Jones-Engel. (0:53) Dr. Lisa, tell us what's going on. (0:56) The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, they've decided that even though all the data is there (1:01) in front of them, the population declines, the smuggling, the illegal capture, the disease (1:05) risk, they've said now twice that long-tailed macaques are not worthy of being added to (1:13) the Endangered Species Act.   (1:14) And that's crazy, because the data don't lie. (1:18) And so the question that we all need to be asking U.S. Fish and Wildlife is, why aren't (1:22) you seeing it? (1:23) Why aren't you responding to what the scientists are putting in front of you? (1:31) How is it possible that they ignore the science, that they ignore major environmental scientific (1:37) groups who are saying these animals are endangered, and the reason why is that you keep kidnapping (1:41) them to put them in cages to be experimented on in torturous experiments? (1:48) You know, I think a lot of it has to do with we are up against an incredibly powerful industry. (1:55) You know, the pharmaceutical industry, the big primate, the big monkey importers, remember, (2:00) this is a billion-dollar industry.   (2:02) And a billion-dollar industry buys you a lot of time in people's offices. (2:08) It buys you a lot of meetings. (2:09) It buys you a lot of monkeys.   (2:12) And I think money is doing a lot of talking here, but as the money talks, the monkeys die.(2:21) The populations decline. (2:23) Just because U.S. Fish and Wildlife has again denied this petition doesn't mean that the (2:28) conservation risk, the threat for this endangered species has changed.   (2:34) The IUCN, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the global authority on whether (2:41) plants and animals are at risk of being endangered, critically endangered, going extinct, that (2:48) global authority has now said twice in the last four years, long-tailed macaques, these (2:55) animals are being wiped off the face of the earth. (2:59) And one of the driving forces is their extraction from the wild to be boxed up and sent around (3:05) the world, primarily here to the U.S. for use in experimentation. (3:11) I don't know how an agency like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service can deny the numbers, (3:16) can deny their own data, can deny data from scientists and say, looks fine to us.   (3:22) You and your organization, PETA, has documented other risks to humans from the importation (3:31) of these macaques and other primates to the United States for experimentation.(3:37) Let's listen to you at a news conference in Washington, D.C. last year. (3:43) CDC's own data show that tuberculosis-infected monkeys imported from Southeast Asia and Mauritius (3:50) made it through federal quarantine and into U.S. laboratories, carrying multiple strains (3:55) of TB, including a strain that we have never seen before here in animals.   (4:02) A new peer-reviewed CDC paper, quietly published behind a paywall, confirms this. (4:10) Tuberculosis sickens 10 million people and kills one in a quarter of them every year. (4:16) It's the world's leading cause of death from a single infectious agent, according to the (4:22) World Health Organization.   (4:23) This deadly disease is coming into the U.S. and, ironically, going into the laboratories (4:29) that are supposed to be curing disease. (4:31) Not only is monkey experimentation not curing diseases, all the diseases they cite, cancer, (4:38) diabetes, heart disease, are going up, but it's posing a threat to humans. (4:44) Can you expand on that, Dr. Lisa? (4:47) Exactly.   (4:48) And so, I mean, thank you for playing that clip. (4:50) That was about a year ago now, when, again, what PETA has been doing is we've been following (4:56) the pathogens because we know that this, a real weak point for this industry is having (5:05) people look in and say, oh, not only are you just bringing endangered monkeys into the (5:10) U.S., these monkeys, once they're caught up in this importation pipeline, are invariably (5:18) harboring dangerous infectious diseases, everything from tuberculosis to Shigella to herpes B (5:25) to simian retroviruses to malaria parasites. (5:31) And I want to share something with you, Jane, that we just learned.   (5:34) So the CITES, Animal Committee, so the CITES, this is the global organization that oversees(5:41) trade in animals and plants. (5:44) CITES met last week, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Delegation had the audacity to say, (5:56) hey, stop trying to use the threat of infectious diseases being brought in with these monkeys (6:01) as a way to backdoor shutting the door on importation.(6:08) This was basically the same day that the CDC published another paper and said, yeah, you(6:15) know what? (6:15) Over the past couple of years, we've had more monkeys arriving.   (6:19) The shipments are larger. (6:21) The larger the shipments, the more sick the monkeys are.(6:24) We've not been able to detect all the infections.   (6:27) The infections are leaving quarantine. (6:29) Monkeys are moving to other facilities. (6:31) People are getting exposed.   (6:34) Again, I'm a scientist. (6:36) The data are right in front of all of these agencies. (6:42) What is it going to take at this stage? (6:47) You are making, you are defining the pathway for the next global pandemic with this industry.   (6:56) And for what? (6:57) Because the scientific community is rapidly moving beyond using non-human primates. (7:02) And yet this multi-billion dollar industry says, uh-uh, not yet. (7:06) I want to try to squeeze every single penny I can out of these monkeys.   (7:11) It's incredibly dangerous. (7:13) Meanwhile, there is still an effort to put a giant, a laboratory monkey breeding facility (7:20) in a small town in Georgia. (7:22) And there's been so much uproar about that.   (7:26) There's even a documentary that is now streaming on Unchained TV. (7:30) Let's take a look at a little clip of that documentary called 30,000 Monkeys in Our Backyard. (7:38) We learned that this proposed facility was going to be 30,000 monkeys.   (7:45) My God, you know, at this rate, this industry will empty the forest of macaques. (7:54) And then I actually read just a little bit more closely. (7:56) And that's when we saw who the main players were.   (8:00) He was the COO of a company named InVigo. (8:02) This is a company that, in addition to importing monkeys, (8:07) also ran a beagle factory farm that supplied beagles to laboratory experiments. (8:12) The Department of Justice ended up co

See All (366)

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
18 Ratings

About

What if I told you there's a way to be healthier, save money, save animals, save the planet and be happier? If you like how that sounds, give us a listen. The UnchainedTV "Truth Files with Jane Velez-Mitchell" podcast offers you a new way of living. Our host, TV journalist and New York Times bestselling author Jane Velez-Mitchell, helps you turn on the lightbulb and jump to the next phase of human evolution. There's a peaceful, joyous, sustainable, healthy, fun way of living right under our noses. The secret is simple: don't look for it out there, practice it in your daily choices. You might say, the solution to so many of the world's problems is right on your plate. Visit: https://watch.unchainedtv.com/browse for more info.

Information

More From The VoiceAmerica Talk Radio Network

You Might Also Like