The journey to veganism often begins with a deep-seated love for animals and the realization that our daily choices can impact their lives profoundly. During Episode 020 of the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ podcast, hosts @kathleengage and @vlynnhawkins talk with Bobby Sud, a filmmaker and photographer, who found his purpose in advocating for animals through the lens of love and empathy.
Early Life and Inspirations
Bobby’s compassion for animals was evident from a young age. Growing up, he always had a strong connection to animals, a trait common among empathetic individuals. However, his journey into veganism and animal 
advocacy didn’t begin until much later. Initially, Bobby pursued a degree in filmmaking, specializing in environmental filmmaking, yet he had not yet adopted a vegan lifestyle.
Health Transformation
It wasn’t until Bobby’s health spiraled out of control that he embraced a plant-based diet. Suffering from severe health issues, including obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and hypertension, Bobby decided to make a drastic change. With his twin brother’s encouragement, within eight months of adopting a plant-based lifestyle, he lost over 100 pounds and reversed his chronic conditions. This transformation was pivotal, not only for his health but also for his burgeoning advocacy.
The Turning Point
The significant turning point in Bobby’s journey occurred when he attended the SoCal VegFest in Orange County. Introduced to the concept of animal vigils by Jon Pierre (JP), Bobby attended his first pig vigil. This experience was a revelation. Standing inches away from a truck filled with 200 six-month-old piglets destined for slaughter, Bobby had a profound epiphany. He realized that, just like humans, these animals had only one life, and their suffering and individuality were undeniable.
Advocacy Through Filmmaking and Photography
Inspired by this experience, Bobby’s path took a definitive turn towards animal advocacy. He began documenting animal vigils, capturing the stark reality of animal suffering through his lens. His talent as a filmmaker and photographer quickly gained recognition, leading to collaborations with notable figures like Shaun Monson and involvement in significant projects like “Generation Vegan.”
LA Animal Save
Bobby’s dedication didn’t stop at documenting animal suffering. He became an active organizer for the Animal Save Movement, specifically LA Animal Save. Through his
powerful photography, Bobby highlights the individuality of animals, transforming abstract numbers into poignant portraits. His work emphasizes that each animal is a sentient being, capable of suffering and deserving of compassion.
Emotional Resilience and Self-Care
Dealing with the emotional toll of witnessing and documenting such suffering is challenging. Bobby’s approach is rooted in love rather than hate. He focuses on his love for animals and his desire to help them, finding solace in the positive impact of his work. This love-based activism helps him manage the emotional weight and stay committed to his cause.
Self-Care Practices
Maintaining emotional well-being is crucial for long-term activism. Bobby shares his self-care strategies, including regular reflection on his motivations and surrounding himself with supportive communities. By focusing on love and purpose, he manages to sustain his advocacy efforts without succumbing to despair.
Impactful Projects
Among Bobby’s numerous projects, his series with Generation Vegan stands out as particularly impactful. This series, which includes interviews with athletes, doctors, and individuals who transformed their health through a plant-based diet, has reached a wide audience. One notable interview is with Paul de Gelder, a shark conservationist and host of Discovery Channel’s Shark Week. Paul’s story of transformation and dedication to animal protection resonated deeply with Bobby and his audience.
The Lens Continues to Tell the Story
Bobby Sud’s journey from a filmmaker to a passionate animal advocate is a testament to the power of personal transformation and the impact of empathy. His work continues to inspire and educate, shedding light on the individuality of animals and the importance of compassionate living. Through his lens, Bobby invites us all to see animals not as numbers but as beings with their own stories, worthy of love and protection.
Episode Highlights
[00:00] Introduction
[02:00] It started with Bobby’s health being out of control.
[03:00] A pig vigil changed everything.
[05:00] 200 individual pigs are suffering as they head to their death.
[09:30] Always remembering the “WHY” behind the work.
[13:00] Million Dollar Vegan is making waves.
[16:30] The start of the 100 pound weight loss journey.
[20:00] Bobby addresses PTSD from activism work.
[24:00] Seniors tasked with educating others on the benefits of the lifestyle.
[28:00] Educating people through love is more effective than shame.
[32:30] The best teacher is one who leads by example.
[34:45] Slaughterhouse children… young victims.
[39:15] Shocking government mandates around dairy.
[44:00] Always remember, it’s about sentient beings.
About Bobby Sud
Bobby Sud is a distinguished filmmaker and photographer with over seven years of dedicated service as an organizer for LA Animal Save. Known for his passionate advocacy for animal rights, Bobby’s work captures the individuality and suffering of animals through powerful visual storytelling. His commitment to the cause is reflected in his role as an animal photojournalist and contributing photographer for WeAnimals, where his impactful images bring attention to the plight of animals worldwide.
In the realm of filmmaking and cinematography, Bobby has collaborated with notable figures such as Shaun Monson, director of the acclaimed documentary “Earthlings,” as well as with Generation Vegan and musician Moby. His expertise and dedication have made significant contributions to these influential projects, furthering the reach and impact of the vegan movement.
Currently, Bobby is working on an exciting documentary focused on creativity with Steve Bellamy. This project features an impressive lineup of personalities, including Moby, Patty Jenkins, Giovanni Ribisi, Shepard Fairey, Jeff Nichols, Ray Parker Jr., Tom Morello, Tiffany Haddish, Tyler Shields, Willa Fitzgerald, Kyle MacLachlan, Kevin Smith, and many more. Through this documentary, Bobby continues to explore and celebrate the diverse expressions of creativity, further solidifying his position as a multifaceted and impactful storyteller.
Bobby’s work can be viewed on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bobbysud/
About Kathleen Gage
Kathleen Gage is a multifaceted professional, renowned as the founder of Vegan Visibility and co-founder of Vegan Visibility Productions. With certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Plant-Based Nutrition from eCornell University, she’s a seasoned business consultant, keynote speaker, and marketing strategist.
Kathleen’s impact extends to hosting the Vegan Visibility Virtual Summit, a niche event supporting vegan and plant-based entrepreneurs with top-tier training from industry experts. Since establishing her business in 1994, she’s navigated economic challenges across various sectors, including high-tech, healthcare, and publishing.
Her influential voice resonates through popular podcasts like “Vegan Visibility” and “Plant Based Eating for Health,” where she advocates for a sustainable, compassionate world and provides guidance to thousands globally. Moreover, as an award-winning speaker and past president of Utah’s National Speakers Association chapter, Kathleen excels in crafting effective marketing strategies.
Kathleen is a founding member of SAGE Circle Alliance, an organization dedicated to a plant-based lifestyle, animal compassion, and environmental regeneration. Founded by a group of passionate change-makers and thought leaders, Sage Circle Alliance aims to inspire individuals to make positive lifestyle changes for the benefit of future generations.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Kathleen resides in Central Oregon, where she champions animal rescue and enjoys outdoor activities. Her commitment to creating a more compassionate and sustainable world shines through in both her personal and professional pursuits.
About Vlynn Hawkins
VLynn Hawkins is a formidable figure at the intersection of vegan entrepreneurship, extreme athleticism, and business leadership. As the Co-Founder of Vegan Visibility Productions and the Chief Executive/Engagement Officer at P3Academy, she channels her expertise to elevate health and wellness businesses. With over three decades in commercial real estate lending, VLynn boasts a track record of leading high-performing teams to exceptional success, consistently generating substantial revenue for multi-billion dollar enterprises.
Transitioning from her corporate career, VLynn’s journey towards holistic wellness began after a knee injury redirected her focus. Exploring healing modalities like tapping, NLP, and hypnotherapy, she discovered a passion for holistic health practices. Today, armed with certifications in business development, hypnotherapy, joint venture brokering, and digital marketing, VLynn empowers Healthpreneurs to thrive in their endeavors.
As a Certified Plant-Based Ambassador, VLynn passionately advocates for the transformative power of a Whole Food, Plant-Based Vegan lifestyle. She hosts the insightful “Health Wisdom & Wealth Show,” sharing invaluable insights into holistic living. Additionally, VLynn serves as the CEO of CrowdfundingHacker.org, assisting small businesses and nonprofits in fundraising for impactful projects.
VLynn is a founding member of SAGE Circle Alliance, an organization dedicated to a plant-based lifestyle, animal compassion, and environmental regeneration. Founded by a group of passionate change-makers and thought leaders, Sage Circle Alliance aims to inspire individuals to make positive lifestyle changes for the benefit of future generations.
Based in Atlanta, GA, VLynn enjoys an active lifestyle, often engaging in workouts and leisurely walks with her Cairn Terrier, Hiro. Her multifaceted skill set and unwavering dedication make her an influential advocate for veganism, health entrepreneurship, and impactful business strategies.
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