Almira Tanner is the Lead Organizer of Direct Action Everywhere (DxE). At first glance, she might not be who you picture when you hear “leader of radical animal liberation network.” Growing up in verdant Vancouver, Canada, she went straight from kindergarten through grad school, finished as valedictorian of her undergraduate class, never stepped out of line, and—God forbid—never had any run-ins with the law. So how did this mild-mannered, upright kid grow up to become the animal agriculture industry’s most feared enemy?

In this episode, Wayne and Almira uncover what drove her to leave her career, her country, and her comfort behind, only to live a life of voluntary indigence with the prospect of imprisonment. They discuss what it’s like to be at the helm of a social movement, the need to balance community relationships and enforce professional standards, and what it takes to be a true leader and agent of change.

This is an Uprising: How Nonviolent Revolt is Shaping the 21st Century – Paul & Mark Engler

Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose – Tony Hsieh

Every Twelve Seconds – Timothy Pachirat

Why David Sometimes Wins – Marshall Gantz

Donate to DxE

Music by Moby: Everything That Rises