In today’s digital age, technology has revolutionized activism and the spread of ideas, amplifying voices like Claire Howe’s, founder of the Raven Corps, through platforms such as the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ podcast.

From Subway to Social Justice: Claire Howe’s Journey to Veganism

Claire Howe’s journey into veganism began unexpectedly during a lunch break at Subway, where she confronted the origins of her meal and its ethical implications. This pivotal moment ignited her passion for animal rights and social justice, propelling her from vegetarianism to veganism within three months. Claire’s personal transformation not only influenced her dietary choices but also sparked a deeper commitment to advocating for the voiceless.

Advocacy Through Education: The Birth of the Raven Corps

Determined to make a tangible difference, Claire pursued a legal education to advocate for farmed animals. Her journey led her to internships at Mercy for Animals and the Humane Society of the United States, where she realized the crucial role of education in driving systemic change. Recognizing the need for inclusive curriculums, Claire pivoted towards empowering youth through the Raven Corps.

Originally founded as Youth for the Voiceless, the Raven Corps evolved into a collective liberation organization, addressing not only animal rights but also environmental sustainability and social justice issues. Claire’s grassroots work with local high school animal rights clubs in Portland laid the foundation for this transformative movement. Through workshops, campaigns, and community engagement, the Raven Corps empowers young activists to advocate for a compassionate and sustainable future.

Operation Mind Over Milk: Challenging Dairy Dominance

One of the Raven Corps’ flagship campaigns, Operation Mind Over Milk, challenges the dominance of dairy milk in schools, advocating for plant-based alternatives. This initiative not only addresses ethical concerns but also highlights the environmental impact of dairy production. By partnering with schools and policymakers, the Raven Corps aims to promote healthier and more sustainable food choices among students, paving the way for a more compassionate food system.

Counter Crispies: Entrepreneurship for Social Good

Beyond activism, Claire and her husband, a professional vegan chef, launched Counter Crispies, vegan marshmallow bars aimed at fundraising for the Raven Corps. Inspired by grassroots movements like the Girl Scout Cookie program, Counter Crispies exemplifies their commitment to sustainable entrepreneurship and community support. The proceeds from Counter Crispies sales directly fund Raven Corps initiatives, demonstrating how innovative business models can drive social change.

A Microphone for Youth-Driven Activism

Claire Howe’s interview on the Veganpreneur REVOLUTION™ podcast underscores the power of youth-driven activism and technological innovation in fostering societal change. As the Raven Corps continues to expand its reach and impact, Claire’s story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for a future where compassion and sustainability thrive. Through her advocacy and entrepreneurial endeavors, Claire encourages listeners to engage in meaningful activism and support initiatives that promote social justice and environmental stewardship.

Inspiring a Compassionate Future

Claire Howe and the Raven Corps exemplify how grassroots activism, fueled by passion and supported by entrepreneurial spirit, can create lasting change in our communities and beyond. Their dedication to empowering youth and advocating for a more compassionate world sets a precedent for future generations of activists and entrepreneurs alike. As they continue to grow and innovate, Claire and the Raven Corps inspire individuals to embrace veganism, advocate for animal rights, and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.

Episode Highlights

[00:00]     Introduction

[02:45]     It all started with a national chain sandwich filled with meat.

[05:00]     Claire is motivated to get a law degree to protect the animals.

[07:45]     The lack of resources for young people motivated Claire even more.

[11:00]     Will youth activism be different “this time” around?

[15:30]     “Mind Over Milk” takes hold.

[20:45]     Millions of dollars wasted in tax payers dollars due to “forced” milk programs.

[25:00]     Students may not know they can request plant-based milk in schools.

[29:00]     The outcomes of shutdowns, isolation and staying connected.

[34:00]     Counter Crispies takes the lead from Girlscout cookies.

[38:00]     Is a cookbook in the Raven’s future?

 

 

About Claire Howe

Claire Howe, Code Name: Mother Raven/Mama Bird, serves as the Executive Director & Co-founder of The Raven Corps, a pioneering organization dedicated to youth activism and collective liberation. With a profound passion for veganism and a holistic approach to social justice, human rights, and environmental advocacy, Claire leverages her background in Animal Law to empower young activists.

Claire’s journey began with a pivotal realization about the dairy industry’s impact on schoolchildren, particularly those of color who are more likely to be lactose intolerant. This spurred her to launch major campaigns like bringing alternative “milk” choices to public schools, challenging systemic norms tied to federal policies.

Beyond her nonprofit leadership, Claire and her husband, a vegan chef, founded a for-profit venture creating vegan marshmallow rice treats. This initiative not only supports The Raven Corps financially but also symbolizes their commitment to innovative, impactful activism akin to the Girl Scouts’ cookie campaign.

Claire finds inspiration in Allison Reynolds’ quote, “When you grow up, your heart dies,” driving her advocacy towards supporting youth activists, fostering creativity, and connecting on a human level to harmoniously navigate life’s challenges.

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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