Show notes
Robert Grillo, founder of Free From Harm, joins Glen to discuss the systemic challenges of transforming the food system and why targeting top decision-makers — not just consumers — is essential for lasting change. Robert shares how his organization has evolved into a powerful force for grassroots activism, taking on industry leaders, policymakers, and media to expose the harms of animal agriculture.In this episode, Robert breaks down the outsized role of government subsidies in propping up animal agriculture and why shifting those subsidies to plant-based foods is one of the most powerful levers for change. He discusses strategies for influencing legislators, confronting health officials, and holding industry accountable through public pressure and media exposure. Robert also offers a grounded critique of lab meat and other technological "solutions," arguing that today's grassroots activism — not tomorrow's hype — is what will move the needle. A timely and eye-opening conversation about democracy, food policy, and the future of the plant-based movement.Have healthy, delicious, oil-free, plant-based Indian food delivered to your door by ordering from https://www.firstseedfoods.com , sponsor of this show, use code GLEN10 to get $10 off your first order!Visit Robert's website: https://www.freefromharm.orgFollow Robert on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/freefromharm/Follow Robert on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freefromharm/Follow Robert on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FreeFromHarmFollow Robert on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@freefromharmVisit our website: https://www.theglenmerzershow.comGet our new book, 'Moving Medicine Forward': https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Moving+Medicine+Forward+by+Dr.+Michael+Clapper+and+Glenn+MercerGet 'America Goes Vegan!' here: https://shorturl.at/dgrLQGet "Live Your Healthiest Life" here: https://shorturl.at/bitDETo order Sweet Indulgence by Chef AJ and me, the healthiest and most beautiful dessert cookbook ever!: https://www.amazon.com/Chef-AJs-Sweet...Glen Merzer Socials:Follow us on Facebook: / theglenmerzershowFollow us on Instagram: / @theglenmerzershowFollow us on Twitter: / glenmerzershowFollow us on TikTok: / uclcmtg_1i6ve_hfmyru1-jaCHAPTERS00:00 - Introduction and book promotion00:22 - Guest introduction: Robert Grillo and his work01:33 - The evolution of Free From Harm and systemic activism04:50 - Activities of Free From Harm and grassroots strategies06:45 - The importance of confronting industry leaders publicly10:08 - Engaging with policymakers and media for impact12:24 - The role of industry-spread diseases like screwworm15:07 - Progress in the movement and shifting subsidies17:23 - Legislative efforts and the influence of money in politics20:12 - Confronting health officials and industry representatives23:14 - The Save Our Bacon Act and industry lobbying26:42 - California law and federal industry opposition29:36 - The challenge of political and industry influence33:12 - The role of environmental groups and the vegan movement35:11 - Co-optation and greenwashing in the industry37:34 - Lab meat and technological solutions: hype vs reality44:16 - The importance of focusing on current activism over hype45:43 - The power of industry advertising and influence46:24 - Where to find and support Robert Grillo46:56 - Closing remarks and appreciation