All About Change

Like many activists, Peter Egan found his cause by chance. When a labrador named Custard collapsed outside the Downton Abbey actor’s house, his wife jumped into action, taking the animal to a vet, and eventually the family adopted the dog. For Egan, this moment opened his eyes to the crisis of surplus pets in the UK, and it served as his initiation into advocating for animal rights. Peter Egan joined host Jay Ruderman to discuss the great number of organizations and animal rights causes he supports, from Saving Suffering Strays, to Animals Asia, to Animal Equality UK. They discuss a campaign to protect stray animals in Turkey that Peter is involved with, the ways that animals care for their well being, and the many ways Peter’s personal relationships with animals shape and international activism shape each other. Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Peter Egan (01:07) Peter’s fight to protect stray animals in Turkey (02:54) How to become involved with international causes (06:15) Bile extraction from Moon Bears (11:31) Peter says Zoos need to go (15:04) What’s the connection between all of Peter’s activism? (22:23) Peter’s path to being a vegan (29:21) How being a vegan has changed Peter’s life (33:48) How animals give us comfort while we grieve (37:40) How can people get involved (40:07) Conclusion and Credits For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/

As a toddler, Mia Silverman had a near-fatal encounter with an allergen. That emergency revealed to her parents not only that she was allergic to dozens and dozens of different everyday foods and additives, but that many of those allergies were life-threatening. Later, as a teen, Mia made a TikTok listing her myriad of allergies. What she didn’t anticipate, however, was that her TikTok would go viral and give her a platform through which to advocate for awareness for others just like her. Mia Silverman joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about her journey from allergy sufferer to allergy awareness advocate. Mia discusses her experiences from childhood, including life-threatening allergic reactions, bullying, and the lack of awareness and support for those living with food allergies. Jay and Mia also speak about the practical aspects of her life, including dining out, traveling, and her efforts to bring systemic changes to improve support, care, and empathy for those living with severe allergies.   Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Mia Silverman (00:41) Mia Discovers Her Severe Allergies (03:32) Understanding and Testing for Allergies (04:37) Mia’s List of Severe Allergies (06:48) Experiencing Bullying Due to Allergies (09:25) Mia Goes Viral (13:03) Navigating Daily Life with Allergies (19:09) Traveling with Severe Allergies (23:09) Social Media Advocacy (27:43) Future Goals and Advocacy Efforts (31:11) Conclusion and Credits   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Montana Tucker built a massive platform on social media using her talents in art, music, and dance. She even shared her personal journey of exploring her family’s history with the Holocaust. But after October 7th, she knew she had to use her platform to combat antisemitism and make a difference.   Montana Tucker joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about her experiences raising awareness about antisemitism and supporting Israel. Montana speaks about her deep-rooted connection to her Holocaust-surviving grandparents, and her emotional experience of visiting Auschwitz with her mother. Jay and Montana also discuss how she has used her platform for advocacy despite facing backlash and hate, her passionate advocacy for Israel and against antisemitism, and her unwavering hope for peace in the Middle East.           Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Montana Tucker (00:51) Montana’s personal connection to the Holocaust (07:47) The importance of the state of Israel (09:29) Montana speaking out about October 7th (11:33) Dealing with backlash and hate (13:46) What Montana thinks people get wrong about October 7th (15:32) Visiting the Nova Festival site  (18:02) How Montana starts conversations with others (21:47) Montana’s experience at the UCLA encampments (27:32) Montana’s advice on getting involved and speaking up (28:56) Montana’s dream of peace in the Middle East (30:06) Conclusion and Credits   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Michelle Oakley decided that as a veterinarian, she wanted to treat all species in her practice. And as if that were not enough of a challenge, she built her career treating wildlife in some of the most remote areas of North America. Dr. Michelle Oakley joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about her career as a veterinarian specializing in treating all species of wildlife in Alaska and the Yukon. Dr. Oakley speaks about turning her lifelong love for animals into a career where she works with wildlife in remote areas, as documented on her show, Dr. Oakley, Yukon Vet. Jay and Dr. Oakley also discuss her daughters’ involvement with her veterinary work, Dr. Oakley’s sustainable lifestyle in the remote wilderness, and the impact of climate change on wildlife and wildlife conservation.   Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Dr. Michelle Oakley (00:32) Dr. Oakley’s Childhood Inspirations (03:05) Encouragement and Role Models (05:25) Pursuing a Career in Veterinary Medicine (07:43) Challenges and Adventures in Wildlife Care (11:52) Family Involvement in Veterinary Work (15:43) Dr. Oakley’s Leap into TV (17:56) A Day in the Life of a Remote Wilderness Vet (20:18) Using Innovative Treatments in Veterinary Medicine (24:25) How Dr. Oakley Maintains Her Mental Health (25:25) Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife (28:10) Sustainable Living in Remote Areas (30:22) Supporting Wildlife Organizations (32:17) Leveraging Her TV Show for Good (35:03) Conclusion and Credits   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amanda Jones never set out to be an activist. As an award-winning librarian and educator in her small Louisiana hometown, she had sought to shape the minds of and inspire the love of reading in her students. But when the book bans sweeping our nation came to her front door, she realized the importance of using her position and privilege to speak out for free speech. Amanda Jones joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about the growing issue of book bans across the United States. Amanda discusses her personal journey from being a school librarian to becoming an advocate against censorship, and about the hateful backlash she faced as a result of speaking out. Jay and Amanda also speak about the political forces fueling book bans, the importance of representation in literature, and how she used her experience to author a powerful memoir and start a non-profit aiming to empower communities to build and sustain their own libraries.   Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Amanda Jones (00:20) The Role of Libraries in Communities (01:45) Misconceptions About Curating Library Content (03:00) Amanda’s Background and Activism Journey (10:27) Facing Backlash for Speaking Out (13:14) Ongoing Legal Battles (16:28) Mental Health and Support Systems (20:32) National Perspective on Book Bans (21:41) The Importance of Representation in Literature (24:19) Political Influence on Libraries (27:29) Non-Profit Initiatives for Libraries (29:49) Advice for Standing Up Against Book Bans (32:14) Conclusion and Credits   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Princess Noor Pahlavi was born into the Iranian royal family as the eldest child of the Crown Prince. She heard the call to civic duty from an early age, inspired by the legacy of her grandfather, the last Shah of Iran, along with her grandmother, The Empress of Iran. But she was not content to sit on the sidelines, and decided to use her place of privilege to be a voice for progressive change for the people of Iran. Princess Noor joined host Jay Ruderman to speak about her distinctive path in continuing the legacy of her family through advocacy for a democratic Iran. Princess Noor talks about the struggles and resilience of the women of Iran, as well as her advocacy for gender equality and better access to healthcare for women. Jay and Princess Noor also speak about her efforts to support Iranians living under the Islamic Republic, along with her work with organizations that empower and support oppressed women.   Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Princess Noor Pahlavi (01:16) Stories of the Shah and The Empress of Iran (06:54) The Current Islamic Regime in Iran (10:33) Life for Iranians Under the Regime (15:25) Women’s Rights and Health in Iran (22:40) Advocacy for Iranian Women Abroad (25:04) Noor’s Work at Acumen (27:52) Leveraging Her Platform for Change (29:04) Conclusion and Credits   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kyle, also known by his gamer tag Bugha, started playing Fortnite as a young teen. He soon realized that he possessed exceptional skills and began competing. In 2019, at the age of 16, he entered the Fortnite World Cup and defeated 99 other players. However, the pure joy of that fame was short-lived when trolls hacked his phone, and Bugha had to learn to deal with online hate. He was also a victim of "swatting," a dangerous prank where someone falsely reports a serious crime to emergency services, causing a SWAT team to be dispatched to the victim's location.   Kyle and his father, Glenn, joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about the challenges and triumphs of being a young professional gamer. Kyle opens up about the pressure of online harassment, as well as the importance of managing his mental health in the face of trolls. Glenn shares how his and his family’s unwavering support and guidance have been integral to Kyle's journey. Jay, Bugha, and Glenn also get into how they navigate the complexities of fame, as well as Kyle’s philanthropic efforts to help lower the barrier for entry to video gaming.   Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Kyle (Bugha) and Glenn (01:19) Bugha’s Early Gaming Days (03:55) Bugha Discovers Fortnite (07:54) Winning the Fortnite World Cup (10:49) The Challenges of Fame (19:47) Mental Health: Coping with Trolling and Swatting (26:52) Daily Routine, Burnout, and Future Ambitions (34:14) Philanthropy: Using Fame for Good (37:11) Conclusion and Credits   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Octavia Spencer is an Academy Award and Golden Globe award-winning actor and film producer, but her story has many different turns. Octavia thought studying law would be her path to change the world. But when a movie started production in her hometown of Montgomery, Alabama, her persistence landed her an internship that set her on a path to a successful career in Hollywood. Octavia joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about her inspiration to become an actor and producer, as well as the challenges she has faced as a Black woman in the entertainment industry. Octavia also shares her passion for giving back through her involvement with City Year Los Angeles, an organization that focuses on using the power of education to lift historically underrepresented groups out of poverty. Jay and Octavia also get into why, in spite of success as an actor, she evolved into an actor and producer and is driven by her desire to create authentic narratives and provide opportunities for Black and underrepresented groups in Hollywood.   Episode Chapters (00:00) Introduction (03:25) Octavia's Early Life and Career (06:44) Breaking into Hollywood (14:00) Challenges and Triumphs in Hollywood (18:32) ‘The Help’ and Other Iconic Roles (28:13) Passion for Education: City Year and Giving Back (30:18) Becoming a Producer (35:10) Future Aspirations and Final Thoughts (38:27) Conclusion and Credits   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sophie Gregoire Trudeau has spent much of her adult life in the public eye as a broadcaster and political leader. And, as someone who has been public about her own struggles with mental health, Sophie believes that the key to restoring trust in our institutions lies in our leaders reckoning with emotional awareness and their own traumas.  Sophie joined host Jay Ruderman to discuss the complexities of mental health and the power of vulnerability and connection, topics she also explores in her new book, ‘Closer Together.’ Sophie opens up about her struggle with bulimia, the importance of breaking generational cycles of trauma, and the significance of asking for help. Jay and Sophie get into how self-awareness, love, and presence are needed to effectively address the global mental health crisis.    Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro to Sophie Trudeau (01:49) Understanding Early Childhood Development and Trauma (04:33) Sophie’s Personal Journey and Spirituality (05:45) The Challenges of Modern Parenting (09:07) Dealing with Hate and Bullying (09:37) Mental Health in Politics (14:27) Sophie Breaks the Silence on Her Struggle with Bulimia (27:16) Breaking Generational Cycles of Trauma (29:34) The Importance of Transparency and Connection (31:31) Conclusion and Final Thoughts   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Torrey DeVitto grew up in an entertainment family, and as an adult, she has gone on to star in a number of shows, including Pretty Little Liars, The Vampire Diaries, and Chicago Med. Her many roles and personal experiences with two very different abortions helped empower and inspire her to speak up for hospice, women, and reproductive rights. Torrey joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about learning to handle her anxiety during her early career, as well as channeling her innate fearlessness into advocating for the many causes she champions. In a very intimate conversation, Jay and Torrey delved into her outspoken stance on reproductive rights and the importance of grounding activism in love and authenticity.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Brockovich became a household name when her crusade against the polluting power company PG&E in a small California town was dramatized in the Oscar-winning movie Erin Brockovich, starring Julia Roberts. But her mission to empower communities to fight for environmental justice didn't end there. Erin joined host Jay Ruderman to share her journey from a Kansas childhood marked by dyslexia to becoming a pivotal figure in environmental advocacy. Jay and Erin talk about the immense influence of her parents and a crucial school teacher in fostering her dogged persistence, the necessity of community action and local involvement, and her ongoing efforts to address environmental crises in America. For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bill Courtney first became widely known as the volunteer coach who transformed an underprivileged high school football team into champions in the Oscar-winning documentary “Undefeated.” But going from a traumatic childhood to becoming an inspiring community leader was a hard-fought victory.  Bill joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about how overcoming a difficult upbringing led to his success in business, his community, and on the field. They discuss how Bill’s challenging journey that led him to becoming a beloved coach instilled in him empathy, integrity, and resilience,  and how change can be affected by “an army of normal folks” leveraging their skills, passions, and opportunities.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lee Asher is known for his positive presence. Visit the Asher House page and you'll be met with countless videos of Lee greeting animals getting a second chance at his Oregon sanctuary. But Lee's struggles with mental health don't often get the same spotlight. Lee joined host Jay Ruderman to talk about the importance of pet adoption, resilience, and what it took to go from a 9 to 5 to running a 240-acre animal sanctuary. The two also discuss Lee's long road with depression, and what changes he'd like to see in the animal rescue community   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2013, Jason Collins made history. On top of his storied basketball career, he was the first male player of any major American team sport to come out as gay. Jason was well-known for his leadership on and off the court. That reputation stands strong even after he retired from the league. Today, Jason is a steadfast advocate for the LGBTQ community.  Jason sat down with host Jay Ruderman to talk about coming to terms with his sexuality, his coming out journey, and the roles allies can play.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Apple Watch Raffle Instructions (Deadline 9/1/24) Rate and Review All About Change on Apple Podcasts Email a screenshot of your review to allaboutchange@rudermanfoundation.org before September 1st, 2024. We will randomly pick 3 lucky winners.   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ronald E. Richter is the CEO and Executive Director of JCCA, an organization that provides child welfare and mental health services to the most vulnerable of New York’s children and families. Throughout his career, Ron has been a steadfast advocate for the children of New York, whether as a judge in the Family Court system or as Commissioner of New York City’s Administration for Children’s Services. Ron joined host Jay Ruderman to discuss some of the misconceptions around the foster care system, how his own childhood informs his work, and what changes are needed to improve our systems for child welfare.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shane Burcaw grew up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Moravian College with an English degree. His bestselling memoir was shortlisted for the ALA Excellence in Nonfiction Award. He also writes as a freelancer for The Morning Call. His blog, Laughing At My Nightmare, talks about the humor of living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) and has over half a million followers. Along with his wife, Hannah, the duo started their popular YouTube channel, Squirmy and Grubs, in 2018.  Shane sat down with host Jay Ruderman to talk about his experience growing up as a person with a disability, his advocacy work through his YouTube channel and non-profit, and how he challenges people’s assumptions about what someone living with a disability can do.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brett Gelman is best and more recently known for his work on shows like Fleabag and Stranger things, but the actor has been around for years. Throughout his career he’s also been a vocal advocate against antisemitism and Jewish inclusion in Hollywood. Following the October 7 attacks, Brett stepped up his activism and has been a steadfast supporter of the Israeli victims of the massacre, making visits to hospitals in the days following, sharing their stories on social media, and recentering the conversation. Brett joined host Jay Ruderman for a conversation about his Jewish upbringing, being a public figure who speaks out, his latest book, to his desire to see more Jewish inclusion in Hollywood.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ed Begley Jr. has been a known name in Hollywood since the 1960s, with recent credits in Young Sheldon, Better Call Saul, and the movie Amsterdam. He’s had a stellar career onscreen, but his commitment to living an environmentally friendly life is just as impressive. Ed’s love of biking, public transit, and electric cars comes up every award season, and his family home is LEED certified. Ed sat down with host Jay Ruderman for a conversation spanning Ed’s career, overcoming his alcoholism, and what’s next in his environmental activism.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jane Velez-Mitchell is best-known for her work in broadcast television, but her career - and life - has been a master class in making a change and sticking to it. After confronting her alcoholism as an early career journalist, Jane began living more authentically than she ever had before. She came out as a lesbian, became a vegan, and founded a free streaming platform dedicated to education around the impact diet can have on health - both the body’s, and the planet’s.  Jane joined host Jay Ruderman for a conversation that spanned the wide breadth of her career, and the personal choices she made along the way.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Academy-Award winning actor Troy Kotsur has been featured in blockbuster films, Broadway shows, and hit TV shows throughout his career. He’s also been a tireless advocate for the Deaf community, both in front of and behind the cameras.  Troy sat down with host Jay Ruderman to discuss the importance of authenticity in portrayal of Deaf and disabled characters, and the vital importance of learning ASL at a young age. Special thanks to interpreter Justin Maurer for his help with this episode. Also be sure to check out Troy’s Documentary Film, To My Father, which depicts his journey to winning an Oscar and his father’s inspiring influence on him, despite a tragic accident.   For video episodes, watch on www.youtube.com/@therudermanfamilyfoundation   Stay in touch: X: @JayRuderman | @RudermanFdn LinkedIn: Jay Ruderman | Ruderman Family Foundation Instagram: All About Change Podcast | Ruderman Family Foundation To learn more about the podcast, visit https://allaboutchangepodcast.com/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.