Join us for our very special 600th episode (!!!) as we celebrate with Andy Tabar and Paul Stellar, hosts of The Bearded Vegans, who are also observing a milestone of six years on-air! In this episode, Jasmin, Mariann, Andy, and Paul provide a unique behind-the-scenes look into the world of podcasting. The podcasters break down their approaches to discussing veganism’s ethical gray areas, why they’re committed to creating a sense of community among listeners, and how they work through on-air disagreements. The group also discusses how their podcasts have changed over time, and they touch on so many other intriguing topics. This is a must-listen episode!!!
Andy Tabar and Paul Steller launched The Bearded Vegans to move beyond the vegan 101 and create more nuanced discussions for the seasoned vegan. Andy is an animal rights activist and owner of Compassion Co, an organic, USA-made vegan apparel brand. As an activist, Andy has completed three tours with the 10 Billion Lives Tour, traveling to nearly every continental state to have over 10,000 one-on-one conversations about the cruelty inherent in animal agriculture. Paul works in data and has taught math at both the high school and college level. He also fronts a band called Continuous Improvement and loves playing Dungeons and Dragons while simultaneously podcasting about it on the Roll to Hit podcast.
“Providing community is such a hugely important thing, even if you’re not an activist or on the front line, so to speak, there is just so much value in creating content for other vegans to feel a sense of community.” – Andy Tabar
“My hope with the podcast is that, in having these discussions, it promotes people to think more deeply and critically, not only about the topics that we’re discussing but just in general.” – Paul Steller
Highlights:
- The role of a podcast in helping to build a strong network of activists
- Andy and Paul’s relationship to humility as white cis-men and how that impacts the reactions to their podcast
- How the podcast hosts stay accountable to each other and their audience
- How Andy and Paul prevent burnout, whether physical or emotional, when they are so committed to being fully available to the show
- How The Bearded Vegan podcast has deepened Andy and Paul’s friendship over the years
Connect with The Bearded Vegans:
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This episode is brought to you in part through the generosity of A Well-Fed World. A Well-Fed World provides the means for change by empowering individuals, social justice organizations, and political decision makers to embrace the benefits of plant-based foods and farming. Learn more at awfw.org.
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You can listen to our podcast directly on our website, or subscribe on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcatcher! Also, if you like what you hear, please rate it and leave us a comment on Apple Podcasts! Of course, we would be thrilled if you would also consider making a donation, or becoming a member of our flock (especially if you’re a regular listener). Any amount is hugely appreciated, and Our Hen House is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, so it’s tax-deductible! Thank you for helping us create quality content, and for helping us bring you a new podcast episode each week!
Don’t forget to tune into Our Hen House’s other two podcasts: The Teaching Jasmin How to Cook Vegan Podcast, and The Animal Law Podcast.
The Our Hen House theme song is written and performed by Michael Harren.