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Dr Matthew C. Halteman is a professor of philosophy at Calvin University in Grand Rapids, Michigan and a fellow at the Oxford Centre of Animal Ethics. Beside his academic work, Matthew is on the board of directors for The Better Food Foundation and Creature Kind. Matthew is the author of Hungry Beautiful Animals: The Joyful Case for Going Vegan.
Matt's career – and veganism – stemmed from finding his way, rather than a particular and clear plan. He was an anxious young person at a time when there was less support and understanding. After initially thinking he'd train for a career in law he turned to philosophy, which opened his mind and made sense of the world.
Matthew says we do better when we stop looking for moral perfectionism and accept mistakes and dead ends are part of being human. He encourages listeners to look for light coming through the cracks, and he advocates shifting from scarcity mode to an abundance mindset to stay positive.
The story of Matt's first meeting with his then-girlfriend's father, when he was very conscious that a philosopher and academic might not be the most appealing prospect to a successful businessman is poignant and personal. To Matthew's surprise and relief, his now father-in-law was a strong advocate of philosophy studies among young executives.
A dog called Gus, and friend and fellow philosopher Nathan Nobis, of Morehouse College, Atlanta, and Matt's wife Susan, helped him change his omnivorous eating habits. And while veganism is his own ethical and philosophical choice, it's not something Matt would insist his children followed throughout adulthood (though he'd be pleased if they did).
Finally, and curiously, Matthew is an avid follower of Arsenal Football Club – the English Premiership (soccer) team also known as The Gunners. He's also interested the vegan football team Forest Green Rovers, which is supported by planet advocate Dale Vince.
Matthew C. Halteman
Arsenal Football Club
Forest Green Rovers
Nathan Nobis
Season 2 Episode 6: Imogen Overy, personal trainer and professional wrestler
Season 2 Episode 1: Lydia Carrington, sustainability manager, Edgbaston cricket stadium
Season 2 Episode 5: Glen Burrows, head of knowledge exchange for New Foundation Farms
