I recently came across an interview I did for the New Vegan Age back in 2017. The author is Tom Epler, whose vegan wedding to Nicole I photographed in 2013.
A quick summary of the questions:
How did I come to veganism?
My unique background and varied interests, did I have a mentor?
Tell us about the Vegan Bus?
How does your veganism inform your yoga practice, and vice versa?
We learned about you through your photography—through your work with the major New York farm sanctuaries and the vegan events you've done. Tell us what led you to photography, where in the world it has taken you, and whether you plan to continue with it?
What are the main pros and cons of piecing together a freelance career based on one's varied interests?
Can you identify a single common thread that ties together your life and work to date? Any new prospects, ideas, or interests you would like to follow up on in the next decade—and beyond?
Some quotes from my answers:
The veal calf I named “Blacky”
“I see now that it was the trauma of learning Blacky’s fate that was the true catalyst. The mind and heart work in mysterious ways!”
Yoga and veganism
“Some yogis can do amazing things with their bodies, but the connection to the universe is really through cultivating a real love of all beings. That is the most important teaching.”
Warrior One Podcast
“If I dedicate my work to something other than myself, it keeps me motivated. Currently I am focused on my photography and creating yoga classes, workshops and events. What I have learned is to not overextend myself. I have another podcast in mind, but need to make some space in my life to manifest it.”
I am happy to say that since the interview I have made space in my life (thanks to the pandemic…) and the new podcast is a reality! While it is not vegan focused, there is vegan philosophy woven into it. The Warrior One Podcast asks the question, “How do we best live this one brief, magical life?” The answers are many, told through stories, original music, interviews, humor, mysticism and physics. I hope you will check it out (links to subscriptions, apps and podcast aggregates on our website https://www.warrioronepodcast.com)
Thanks to Tom Epler for the interview, and the chance to tell my story!