Protecting Animals on Skid Row | Because They Need Us Episode 14
Protecting Animals on Skid Row | Because They Need Us Episode 14
In this episode of Because They Need Us, Judie Mancuso and Nick Sackett discuss Social Compassion’s proposed Community Support and Humane Enforcement Partnership, an initiative designed to improve animal welfare and strengthen enforcement of animal protection laws on Los Angeles’s Skid Row.
The proposed program would build on Los Angeles Animal Services’ existing reserve animal control officer framework, bringing dedicated, trained personnel into the community to address animal neglect and cruelty. By combining humane enforcement with community outreach, education, and collaboration with local nonprofits, the initiative aims to help people access essential resources for their animals, including pet food and veterinary care, while supporting investigations when suspected cruelty warrants legal action.
Judie and Nick explain why dedicated, full-time personnel are essential to making a meaningful difference and discuss the support the proposed partnership has received from local officials. They also reflect on the success of Social Compassion’s recent event and the importance of community support in advancing animal protection.
Learn how you can help bring this initiative to life. Donations will help fund on-the-ground efforts to support vulnerable animals and the people who care for them on Skid Row.
Get full access to Social Compassion in Legislation’s Substack at socialcompassion.substack.com/subscribe (https://socialcompassion.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)
2 Sept 2026
Trump’s Deadly Wildlife Policy Changes | Because They Need Us Episode 13 with Congressman Mike Levin
This episode of Because They Need Us features an in-depth discussion with Congressman Mike Levin and Social Compassion in Legislation’s Judie Mancuso & Nick Sackett about the rollback of federal wildlife protections, threats to state laws like California's Proposition 12, expanded hunting and drilling on public lands, threats to endangered species, wild horses, and migratory birds, and what Congress can do to restore and strengthen these protections. Congressman Levin also discusses the political challenges surrounding environmental legislation and the importance of courts, public advocacy, bipartisan cooperation, and continued pressure on elected officials.We cover "the most anti-environment administration in modern American history” including: - The Trump administration's rollback of the Endangered Species Act- Expanded hunting in national parks, reduced protections for species like grizzly bears and migratory birds- Elimination of federal protections for wild horses- California's animal protection laws and weakening of wildlife protections- Profit over environmental protection, like the potential development in national parks - Concerns about FBI hiring practices and ICE raids in regards to animal rightsJudie, Nick, and Representative Levin discuss strategies for addressing these issues, including relying on courts and public communication while in the minority, investigating corruption, and working toward legislative solutions that could pass both the House and Senate with sufficient bipartisan support. They note that while some Republicans privately oppose the administration's actions on public lands and wildlife, many are hesitant to speak out publicly due to concerns about retaliation from the president.
Get full access to Social Compassion in Legislation’s Substack at socialcompassion.substack.com/subscribe (https://socialcompassion.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)
24 Jun 2026
New Film! We Are Animals | Because They Need Us 11 with Lady Freethinker's Nina Jackel
In Episode 11 of Because They Need Us, hosted by Social Compassion in Legislation founder Judie Mancuso, Judie and Nick Sackett sit down with filmmaker and animal advocate Nina Jackel to discuss her powerful new documentary, We Are Animals.Join us on Thursday, June 25th for the Premiere of We Are Animals6pm at the Lumiere Theater in Beverly Hills
Nina shares the inspiration behind the film, explaining how influential documentaries such as Blackfish helped shape her vision of creating a compelling and educational film that highlights the connection between humans and other animals without overwhelming viewers. She reflects on the hope and progress she witnessed while interviewing advocates and changemakers throughout the animal welfare movement.The conversation explores the role of storytelling in advancing animal rights, the challenges of documentary filmmaking, and the lessons Nina learned while bringing the project to life—including navigating production during the pandemic. Nina also offers advice for aspiring filmmakers and advocates looking to make an impact through media.Judie provides updates on recent legislative victories for animals, discusses the growing bipartisan support for animal welfare policies, and shares exciting developments in Social Compassion in Legislation’s ongoing efforts to create meaningful change.The episode concludes with a look ahead to the premiere of We Are Animals and future collaborations aimed at expanding awareness and inspiring action for animals everywhere.Nina Jackel, Lady Freethinker FounderNina Jackel is a journalist and activist known for effecting change for animals around the world through her non-profit organization, Lady Freethinker. As the founder of LFT, Jackel leads numerous divisions at the org. that expose cruel and illegal activities through undercover operations; targeted education to change outdated cultural norms; and galvanizing ordinary citizens to make a difference by signing petitions to government, law enforcement, and major companies.
Get full access to Social Compassion in Legislation’s Substack at socialcompassion.substack.com/subscribe (https://socialcompassion.substack.com/subscribe?utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=CTA_4)
Contact Because They Need Us - Our Political Fight to Save Animals
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Because They Need Us - Our Political Fight to Save Animals?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
