Podcast

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Arihanta Institute professor Jonathan Dickstein interviews Christopher Sebastian, a journalist, technical writer, and adjunct lecturer at Anglo-American University in Prague. Christopher, who writes about food, politics, media, pop culture, and animals, dives deep into the intersections of media, culture, and veganism. In their conversation, Jonathan and Christopher discuss the role of media in shaping radical perspectives, drawing influence from thinkers like bell hooks, and the ways in which we consume media. Christopher reflects on how cultural identity is shaped through media narratives and explores connections between race, religion, politics, science, and consumerism. Together, they offer a fresh lens on how media influences our habits, choices, and the movements we support—especially in the realm of animal exploitation and speciesism. Course Announcement In the upcoming Arihanta Institute Vegan Studies Initiative course 𝟷𝟶𝟷𝟿 | 𝘝𝘦𝘨𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘴𝘮 𝘪𝘯 𝘗𝘰𝘱 𝘊𝘶𝘭𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘦, Prof. Christopher Sebastian will guide you through fictional portrayals of animal advocacy, vegan practices like compassion and recognition, and the portrayal of farmed, free-living, and companion animals in Western media. Participants will explore how these representations have influenced our understanding of animals and ethics in modern society. Unlike dense critical theory, popular culture is accessible and widely consumed, making it a powerful tool for education. Through TV shows, movies, and music, we can shape our collective understanding of empathy and social justice in ways that resonate with the masses. 🔹 4 hours of recorded lectures 🔹 4 live Q&A sessions (April 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 9 AM to 10 AM PT) 🔹 Course materials available starting March 31, 2025 🔹 Enroll now for only $25! 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast for more insightful discussions on Jain philosophy, ethics, and engaged spirituality! ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Course 1019 | Veganism in Pop Culture with Christopher Sebastian Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Christopher Sebastian is a journalist, technical writer, and adjunct lecturer. He teaches in the School of Journalism, Media, and Visual Arts at Anglo-American University in Prague. He writes about food, politics, media, pop culture, and (of course) animals. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Dr. Jonathan Dickstein specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Ecology, and Comparative Religious Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he wrote his dissertation on ancient Indian animal taxonomies and their relevance for religious ritual and dietary practice. Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, and accordingly extends into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals on topics such as veganism and politics, yoga and diet, Jain veganism, and the ethic of nonviolence ( ahiṃsa ). Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

The Engaged Jain Studies Podcast features Professor Christopher Jain Miller in conversation with Professor Frank Rogers Jr., the Muriel Bernice Roberts Professor of Spiritual Formation & Narrative Pedagogy and Co-Founder & Co-Director of the Center for Engaged Compassion at Claremont School of Theology. Professor Rogers explores the concept of compassion within Western monotheistic traditions—Christianity, Judaism, and Islam—and examines how connection to a Sacred compassionate source fosters deeper human compassion. Drawing from his extensive work in Compassion Studies, Professor Rogers offers insights on cultivating self-compassion and extending it to the world. Course Announcement 📖 This EJS podcast episode offers a preview of Professor Roger's upcoming course for the 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞, 2016 | Spiritual Approaches to Cultivating Compassion . This course explores compassion formation processes that are grounded in Western monotheistic spiritual traditions. These formation processes promote a spiritual path of radical compassion rooted in contemplative encounters with an all-inclusive sacred Source and embodied in compassionate action that extends toward all—one's self, one's neighbor, even one's enemies. This course does not so much study compassion; it explores how to cultivate a compassionate presence in the world through these spiritual traditions. 👉🏽✨ Pre-register for the course by March 31 to receive 25% off using code: CSI2016. The 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 is supported by a grant from the Uberoi Foundation. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast for more insightful discussions on Jain philosophy, ethics, and engaged spirituality! ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS 2016 | Spiritual Approaches to Cultivating Compassion Compassion Studies Initiative @Arihanta Institute Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Dr. Frank Rogers Jr. is the Muriel Bernice Roberts Professor of Spiritual Formation and Narrative Pedagogy and the co-director of the Center for Engaged Compassion at the Claremont School of Theology. A trained spiritual director and experienced retreat leader, his work focuses on spiritual formation that is contemplative grounded, personally empowering, and socially liberative. He is the author of several books including Cradled in the Arms of Compassion: A Spiritual Journey from Trauma to Recovery; Practicing Compassion; Compassion in Practice: The Way of Jesus (and its supplemental curriculum, The Way of Radical Compassion, and The God of Shattered Glass, A Novel. He lives in southern California with his wife, Dr. Alane Daugherty, with whom he shares three young adult sons, Justin, Michael, and Sammy. With his wife, he loves to run, hike, snorkel, and follow baseball. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Christopher Jain Miller  is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at  Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available  Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of  Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation  (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes  Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement  (SUNY 2025) and  Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age  (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Jonathan Dickstein interviews Yamini Narayanan about her groundbreaking book, Mother Cow, Mother India: A Multispecies Politics of Dairy in India . This conversation, recorded from a live episode event, delves into Narayanan’s shift into animal studies and her extended analysis of Indian bovines. During the discussion, Narayanan unpacks the complex symbolism of the “mother cow” in India, highlighting how it is weaponized against women, Muslims, and Dalits, and how “cow protectionism” serves as a thinly disguised tool of patriarchal ethnonationalism. Most critically, Narayanan draws attention to how mainstream narratives highlighting “beef” and “slaughter” distract from the core issue—the Indian dairy industry, which is directly responsible for the ongoing mistreatment and killing of millions of bovines each year. Subscribe and stay tuned for more insightful episodes! This is just one of many live discussions we will be bringing to the podcast, featuring leading scholars and thinkers in Engaged Jain Studies. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Subscribe to the Arihanta Institute Newsletter Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Dr. Yamini Narayanan is an ARC Future Fellow at the Alfred Deakin Institute for Citizenship and Globalisation. Yamini's research intersects animal, political and environmental geography, multispecies ethnography, South Asian studies, and animals and geopolitics. Yamini's book  Mother Cow, Mother India  (2023, Stanford/Navayana) won the Mid Career Researcher Book Prize 2024 from the Asian Studies Association of Australia, and has been shortlisted in the Non-Fiction category for the Crossword Book Award 2024, one of India's most prestigious national literary honours. Yamini's substantive work focusses on the entanglement of animals in nationalist and developmental ideologies in India. She is currently researching animals in coercive labour in India’s brick kilns, exploring an anti-anthropocentric politics of poverty and development. Yamini's work is published in leading journals including Annals of the American Association of Geographers; Environment and Planning A, D and E; Urban Geography; Geoforum; Hypatia; and South Asia. Yamini's research is supported by three Australian Research Council grants, including the DECRA Fellowship. Yamini is the founding Convenor of the Deakin Critical Animal Studies Network, and is a lifelong Fellow of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics. Yamini serves as Special Issues Editor of Urban Geography, and Associate Editor of Environmental Humanities. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Dr. Jonathan Dickstein specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Ecology, and Comparative Religious Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he wrote his dissertation on ancient Indian animal taxonomies and their relevance for religious ritual and dietary practice. Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, and accordingly extends into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals on topics such as veganism and politics, yoga and diet, Jain veganism, and the ethic of nonviolence (ahiṃsa). Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Christopher Jain Miller, PhD, interviews Dr. Venu Mehta, Assistant Professor of Jainism and Comparative Spiritualities at Claremont School of Theology (CST), and a key collaborator and professor in the MA Engaged Jain Studies track at CST. Hear about how Professor Mehta came to study forgiveness as a form of compassion in Jain Studies, amidst her manifold other research and teaching interests. Also understand how the Jain tradition offers many approaches to forgiveness and compassion in texts as well as in everyday cultural practices. Learn how you too can incorporate Jain practices of forgiveness into your everyday world to live a more compassionate and peaceful life. Course Announcement 📖 This EJS podcast episode offers a preview of Dr. Mehta's course for the 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝟸𝟶𝟷𝟻 | 𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 . Forgiveness or kṣamāpanā is arguably the most important virtue and practice, known to be synonymous to and vital for the practice of non-violence, compassion, and peace for individuals and the global community. As one of the most ancient religious traditions, Jainism is not only rich with the philosophical sources on the concept of forgiveness, but the Jain tradition also offers lived ways to practice forgiveness in our daily life. Learn the Jain way of forgiveness in conversation with non-violence, compassion, and peace. The 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 is supported by a grant from the Uberoi Foundation. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast for more insightful discussions on Jain philosophy, ethics, and engaged spirituality! ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS 2015 | Forgiveness as Compassion - Arihanta Institute Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living About: Venu Mehta - Claremont School of Theology Learn More: Master of Arts - Engaged Jain Studies - Now accepting applications! Scholarships available. ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Venu Mehta, PhD, Professor at Claremont School of Theology Venu Mehta is a scholar of Jainism. Her present research focuses on the devotional practices, literature, and iconography of the Jaina Goddess Padmāvatī, with special attention to vernacular and regional forms of devotion and goddesses in Jainism. Her areas of scholarship in Jain Studies include Jain religious diaspora and sectarian negotiations in the USA, Jainism and ecology, Jain bhakti literature and practices in Gujarat, Jaina theory of Anekāntavāda, and Jaina notion of forgiveness. Her academic background, including research and training in education and literature, led to her first Ph.D. in multiculturalism and literature education. In her first Ph.D. project, she focused on developing theory, methods, and in-class materials to orient learners towards multiculturalism using literature at the higher secondary level. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Christopher Jain Miller  is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at  Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available  Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of  Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation  (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes  Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement  (SUNY 2025) and  Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age  (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Christopher Jain Miller, PhD , speaks with senior scholar Professor Jeffery Long from Elizabethtown College. Join us as Professor Long shares his personal journey into Jain Studies and Compassion Studies, tracing his early encounters with South Asian dharma traditions and his eventual deep engagement with Jain philosophy. Together, they explore how the Jain worldview naturally leads to a life of compassion , how the philosophical principle of anekāntavāda (the doctrine of multiple perspectives) fosters understanding across different worldviews, and how non-possession ( aparigraha ) can be a profound practice of compassion in daily life. Professor Long also highlights the impactful social work of Acharya Chandanaji’s Veerayatan movement and Acharya Tulsi’s Anuvrat movement , offering insights into how these initiatives exemplify engaged Jainism in action. The episode closes with Professor Long’s reflections on how we can cultivate more compassion in our own lives and apply Jain principles in our everyday interactions. Episode Highlights Professor Jeffery Long’s journey into Jain Studies: From youth experiences to South Asian dharma traditions Anekāntavāda: Developing compassion for differing worldviews through multiple perspectives Aparigraha (non-possession) as an active practice of compassion Inspiration from Jain social movements: Acharya Chandanaji’s Veerayatan and Acharya Tulsi’s Anuvrat movement The Jain worldview: Its logical foundation for a life of compassion and practical insights on integrating compassion into our daily lives. Course Announcement 📖 This EJS podcast episode offers a preview of Dr. Long’s course for the 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞, 𝟸𝟶𝟷𝟺 | 𝘑𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘛𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 & 𝘗𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 where participants will delve deeper into applying Jain teachings to modern challenges. The 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 is supported by a grant from the Uberoi Foundation. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast for more insightful discussions on Jain philosophy, ethics, and engaged spirituality! ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Compassion Studies Initiative @Arihanta Institute Course 2014 | Jain Teachings & Practices of Compassion Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Dr. Jeffery D. Long is the Carl W. Zeigler Professor of Religion, Philosophy, and Asian Studies at Elizabethtown College, in Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, where he has taught since receiving his PhD from the University of Chicago Divinity School in the year 2000. He is the author, editor, or co-editor of twelve books, including Hinduism in America: A Convergence of Worlds, which won the Rajinder and Jyoti Gandhi Award for Excellence in Theology, Philosophy, and Critical Reflection from the Dharma Academy of North America in 2022. His latest book is Discovering Indian Philosophy: An Introduction to Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist Thought. His work focuses primarily on the religions and philosophies of India, mainly the Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist traditions, and on such themes as nonviolence, pluralism and its metaphysical foundations, the pedagogy of teaching Indic traditions in a Western context, religion and popular culture, and the concept of rebirth. In 2021, he received an award from the International Ahimsa Foundation for his efforts to promote nonviolence through scholarship. In the same year, he received the Ranck Award for Research Excellence from Elizabethtown College. He has spoken three times at the United Nations and appears in documentaries for PBS and the History Channel. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Christopher Jain Miller  is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at  Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available  Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of  Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation  (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes  Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement  (SUNY 2025) and  Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age  (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Jonathan Dickstein, PhD , interviews Jonina Turzi and Sarah Salluzzo , co-founders of Lancaster Farm Sanctuary . Together, they explore the history and philosophy of the farm sanctuary movement, its unique role in advocating for animals, and the mission and vision of Lancaster Farm Sanctuary. Jonina and Sarah also discuss the intersection of ethics, ecology, and education in their work, offering insights into the transformative potential of farm sanctuaries for advancing ahimsa (non-violence) and reshaping human-animal relationships. Episode Highlights Radical Beginnings : Jonina and Sarah share their personal journeys toward veganism and the founding of Lancaster Farm Sanctuary. Philosophy of Compassion : Examining the motivations and ethical frameworks behind deeper kinship with animals. Cultural and Ecological Impact : Reflecting on how farm sanctuaries reshape human-animal relationships and promote ecological balance. Rescue and Education : Exploring the role of sanctuaries in the broader vegan and animal rights movements. New Course Announcement Jonina and Sarah will be teaching a live, 4-week online course for Arihanta Institute’s Vegan Studies Initiative , titled " Animal Sanctuary: Solutions in Nonviolence. " This course runs from January 31 – February 21, 2025 , offering participants a chance to engage with the philosophy, history, and practices of animal sanctuaries. Tune in to this inspiring episode to learn more about the compassionate work of Lancaster Farm Sanctuary and how farm sanctuaries embody the principles of ahimsa . Subscribe,  and  stay tuned  for more insightful episodes! ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Course 1018 | Animal Sanctuary: Solutions in Nonviolence Lancaster Farm Sanctuary Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Jonina Turzi, Vice-President & Co-Founder, Lancaster Farm Sanctuary Jonina co-founded Lancaster Farm Sanctuary to advance the well-being of humans and animals. She previously founded a yoga studio and led yoga classes and teacher trainings. She is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and owns a private PT practice in Lancaster City. Sarah Salluzzo, Executive Director & Co-Founder, Lancaster Farm Sanctuary Sarah Salluzzo confounded Lancaster Farm Sanctuary in 2017. She holds an MSW and MA in media studies and previously worked in substance abuse rehabilitation. She now works full-time at LFS as the Executive Director and is the board president. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Jonathan Dickstein, PhD, Assistant Professor at Arihanta Institute Dr. Dickstein specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Ecology, and Comparative Religious Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he wrote his dissertation on ancient Indian animal taxonomies and their relevance for religious ritual and dietary practice. Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, and accordingly extends into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals on topics such as veganism and politics, yoga and diet, Jain veganism, and the ethic of nonviolence (ahiṃsa). Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Christopher Jain Miller, PhD interviews Tine Vekemans, PhD from Ghent University to discuss her groundbreaking book, Digital & Diaspora: Intertwined Frontiers of Contemporary Jainism . Drawing from years of meticulous ethnographic research, Dr. Vekemans offers insights into how Jain communities in Belgium, the UK, and North America are navigating the intersections of diasporic life and digital innovation. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS The Creators of Digital Jain Spaces: Who is building these platforms and for what purposes? Motivations Behind Digital Engagement: The role of technology in preserving and transforming religious and cultural identities. Exploring the social, cultural, and religious factors driving the development of these digital environments. The Inseparability of Digital and Diaspora: Ethnographic insights from Jain communities in Belgium, the UK, and North America. Understand how virtual spaces and diasporic realities are shaping one another. Futures of Jainism in Digital Contexts: Potential trends and implications for Jain communities worldwide. A discussion of the book’s significance as the first major study to explore these themes within Jain Studies. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Dialogues in European Jain Studies | Arihanta Institute, Ghent University, University of Birmingham Jaina Studies at Ghent University Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Dr. Vekemans’ pioneering work sheds light on the pivotal role digital spaces play in diasporic Jainism, offering listeners a glimpse into the evolving landscape of Jain identity, practice, and community in a globalized world. Subscribe and stay tuned for more insightful episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Tine Vekemans, PhD, Ghent University Professor Tine Vekemans holds the Ācārya Mahāprajña Chair for Jain Studies at Ghent University. Additionally, she is a postdoctoral research fellow funded by the University’s Special Research Fund (BOF). Her approach to Jain studies combines ethnography with textual study, but always starts from practices and experiences of Jains. Over the past decade, her research touched upon diverse aspects of modern Jainism, including Jain migration history, changing lay-mendicant relations, Jainism in the digital age, and processes of knowledge transfer in the Jain diaspora. Her recent book, Digital & Diaspora – Intertwined Frontiers of Jainism, won the 2023 Bhagwan Kunthunatha Annual Best Book Award. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Christopher Miller, PhD, Professor at Arihanta Institute Christopher Jain Miller  is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at  Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available  Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of  Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation  (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes  Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement  (SUNY 2025) and  Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age  (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Arihanta Institute professor Jonathan Dickstein, PhD interviews professor, French literary scholar, and historian of vegetarianism, Renan Larue, PhD about his academic journey and his insights into ancient Western philosophy’s perspectives on meat consumption and anthropocentrism. Dr. Larue recounts his teenage epiphany after reading Ovid’s Metamorphoses and explains how historical Western thought has influenced contemporary views on animal ethics. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Personal Journey: Larue's early experiences and shift to vegetarianism. Philosophical Perspectives: How Western philosophy has shaped views on animal exploitation. Advocacy Challenges: Navigating modern vegan advocacy within entrenched social norms. Subscribe for more insightful episodes! ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Renan Larue | Department of French and Italian | UCSB Course 1017 | Beasts & Beliefs: Animals & the Origins of Vegetarianism in the Ancient West Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Renan Larue is a professor, French literary scholar, and historian of vegetarianism. He is the author of six books on animal rights, vegetarianism or veganism, including Le végétarisme et ses ennemis (Presses Universitaires de France, 2015), a history of vegetarianism from Pythagoras until the modern day. The French Academy awarded it Best Book of the year in Moral Philosophy. More recently, he published Anthologie végane: 100 textes essentiels (Presses Universitaires de France, 2023). In 2016, he offered the first course in Vegan Studies in the United States at the University of California, Santa Barbara. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Dr. Dickstein specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Ecology, and Comparative Religious Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he wrote his dissertation on ancient Indian animal taxonomies and their relevance for religious ritual and dietary practice. Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, and accordingly extends into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals on topics such as veganism and politics, yoga and diet, Jain veganism, and the ethic of nonviolence (ahiṃsa). Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Arihanta Institute professor Jonathan Dickstein, PhD interviews Pratt Institute political economist Jan Dutkiewicz, PhD . Professor Dutkiewicz shares his journey from business and journalism to the academic study of the politics, economics, and social implications of factory farming. The conversation also touches on the importance of law, personal habits, and social norms in fostering systemic change for a better world. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Factory Farming & Cheap Meat: An in-depth look at the factors enabling the rise of industrial animal farming. Just and Sustainable Food Systems: Insights into Dutkiewicz's forthcoming book and his work on rethinking food systems. Vox Contributions: Highlights of his articles on animal farming and food systems for Vox . Professor Dutkiewicz is also teaching an upcoming live 4-week online course for Arihanta Institute's Vegan Studies Initiative, October 7 - November 1, 2024: " Feeding the World: Toward a Plant-Based Food System ." Listen, subscribe,  and  stay tuned  for more insightful episodes! ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Course 1016 | Feeding the World: Toward a Plant-Based Food System Jan Dutkiewicz | Website Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Jan Dutkiewicz, PhD Jan Dutkiewicz is Assistant Professor in the School of Social Science and Cultural Studies at the Pratt Institute and a Contributing Writer at Vox. He has written about the politics of food for The New Republic, The Guardian, The Washington Post, WIRED and The Wall Street Journal. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Jonathan Dickstein, PhD, Assistant Professor at Arihanta Institute Dr. Dickstein specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Ecology, and Comparative Religious Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he wrote his dissertation on ancient Indian animal taxonomies and their relevance for religious ritual and dietary practice. Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, and accordingly extends into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals on topics such as veganism and politics, yoga and diet, Jain veganism, and the ethic of nonviolence (ahiṃsa). Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Christopher Jain Miller, PhD interviews Professor Venu Mehta, PhD from Claremont School of Theology. Dr. Mehta discusses her background as a Jain from Gujarat, where she earned her first PhD in literature and humanities before completing a second PhD at the University of Florida. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Academic Journey: Insights into Professor Mehta's academic path and her dual expertise in literature and Jain studies. Research on Padmavati: An exploration of her exciting research on the Jain goddess Padmavati. Teaching and Impact: A look into the courses she teaches in the MA - Engaged Jain Studies program, the transformative experiences of her students, and her perspective on what "engaged" Jainism means. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living About: Venu Mehta - Claremont School of Theology Learn More: Master of Arts - Engaged Jain Studies - Now accepting applications! Scholarships available. Gain a valuable perspective from a rising scholar in Engaged Jain Studies, an emerging sub-discipline developed through collaboration between CST and Arihanta Institute. Subscribe and stay tuned for more insightful episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Venu Mehta, PhD, Professor at Claremont School of Theology Venu Mehta is a scholar of Jainism. Her present research focuses on the devotional practices, literature, and iconography of the Jaina Goddess Padmāvatī, with special attention to vernacular and regional forms of devotion and goddesses in Jainism. Her areas of scholarship in Jain Studies include Jain religious diaspora and sectarian negotiations in the USA, Jainism and ecology, Jain bhakti literature and practices in Gujarat, Jaina theory of Anekāntavāda, and Jaina notion of forgiveness. Her academic background, including research and training in education and literature, led to her first Ph.D. in multiculturalism and literature education. In her first Ph.D. project, she focused on developing theory, methods, and in-class materials to orient learners towards multiculturalism using literature at the higher secondary level. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST  Christopher Miller, PhD, Professor at Arihanta Institute Christopher Jain Miller  is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at  Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available  Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of  Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation  (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes  Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement  (SUNY 2025) and  Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age  (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

"Veganism is not a diet. Veganism is not a lifestyle. Veganism is, and must be, a social justice movement, in solidarity with other social justice movements. There is no more time for nonsense." -- WinforAnimals.org In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast, Arihanta Institute professor Jonathan Dickstein, PhD interviews Mercer University professor Vasile Stanescu, PhD about his research and work on effective animal liberation and his new online course for Arihanta Institute's Vegan Studies Initiative: "Debunking the Myth of Sustainable & Humane Animal Agriculture." EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Path to Veganism: Dr. Stanescu shares his journey to veganism and his dedication to animal studies. Exposing Myths: A critical examination of the false claims of "humane" and "sustainable" animal agriculture, including marketing terms like "free-range," "pasture-raised," "local," and "family-owned." Empowering Resistance: Strategies for recognizing and resisting misleading narratives in animal agriculture. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Course 1015 | Debunking the Myth of Sustainable and Humane Animal Agriculture WinForAnimals.org | Vasile Stanescu Website Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! Join us for an enlightening discussion on the realities of animal agriculture and how to advocate for true sustainability. Listen, subscribe, and stay tuned for more insightful episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Vasile Stanescu, PhD, Associate Professor of Communication Studies at Mercer University   Dr. Vasile Stanescu received his Ph.D. from Stanford University in the program of Modern Thought and Literature. He is an Associate Professor of Communication Studies at Mercer University. Dr. Stanescu is the co-founder and former co-Senior Editor of the Critical Animal Studies Book Series published by Brill/Rodopi Press, and a co-founder of the North American Association for Critical Animal Studies (NAACAS). He has also served on the editorial collective for the Journal for Critical Animal Studies and co-organized the Stanford Environmental Humanities Project. He is currently a member of the Climate Social Science Network (CSSN) based out of Brown University. A pioneer in the field of Critical Animal Studies, Dr. Stanescu has over 25 peer-reviewed publications on the study of animals and the environment. His work has been featured in journals such as the American Behavioral Scientist, The Journal of American Culture, Animal Studies Journal, and the Journal for Critical Animal Studies. His research has been recognized by numerous institutions, including The Woods Institute for the Environment, Minding Animals International, The Andrew Mellon Foundation, the Culture and Animals Foundation, the Institute for Critical Animal Studies, and the Institutul Cultural Român. A committed advocate for animal liberation, Dr. Stanescu has been vegan for over 20 years. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Jonathan Dickstein, PhD, Assistant Professor at Arihanta Institute Dr. Dickstein specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Ecology, and Comparative Religious Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he wrote his dissertation on ancient Indian animal taxonomies and their relevance for religious ritual and dietary practice. Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, and accordingly extends into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals on topics such as veganism and politics, yoga and diet, Jain veganism, and the ethic of nonviolence (ahiṃsa). Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Professor Christopher Jain Miller interviews Dr. Pratik Bhansali and Vinita Dugad from the Jain Vegan Initiative. They discuss their backgrounds as Jains advocating for veganism and sustainable lifestyles within the Jain community. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Backgrounds in Advocacy: Vinita and Pratik share their journey as Jains promoting veganism and sustainability. New Course Overview: Insights into their new course, "Reimagining Sustainability: Jain Environmental Advocacy," which focuses on sustainable living principles. Practical Sustainability: Practical advice on how Jains and non-Jains can adopt more environmentally sustainable lifestyles, emphasizing the urgency for both individual and collective action to ensure a better future for all life forms. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living The Jain Vegan Initiative | Facebook The Jain Vegan Initiative | Instagram Beyond Vegetarianism: Jain Veganism and the Promotion of Ahiṃsā | Course: 102 - Arihanta Institute Reimagining Sustainability: Jain Environmental Advocacy | Course: 106 - Arihanta Institute 40+ Self-paced Online Courses | Jainism, Veganism, Animal Advocacy, Climate Change, Yoga, Professional Ethics, Social Justice Subscribe to the Arihanta Institute Newsletter Join us for an inspiring discussion on integrating Jain principles with contemporary environmental challenges. Subscribe and stay tuned for more enlightening episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUESTS Pratik Bhansali is a PhD in Mechanical Engineering. He thinks taking a stand against any form of discrimination is something that forms basic decency. This stand should encompass all animals – humans and non-humans, and being a vegan is a mere logical consequence of this stand. He also sees the interconnections between all forms of oppression and their links with animals and their rights. Vinita Dugad embarked on her sustainable lifestyle journey at a young age when she recognized that the excessive and long-lasting impact of our consumption patterns is convenience driven. Through her observation of human behaviour in relation to the environment, she realized that societal pressures to conform are a major hurdle in making sustainable choices. She emphasizes that previous generations hold plenty of valuable solutions and innovation is not always necessary. As she noticed that many solutions being promoted prioritize profits, making them unaffordable for the majority, Vinita founded Ecomo, a startup dedicated to addressing this, while also raising awareness about greenwashing practices. She also has a keen interest in exploring how the hospitality and tourism sectors can step in to foster environmental responsibility. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Christopher Miller, PhD, Professor at Arihanta Institute Christopher Jain Miller is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement (SUNY 2025) and Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , we speak to Arihanta Institute's Professor Cogen Bohanec, MA, PhD . Dr. Bohanec discusses his journey into Jain Studies, influenced by his broader practice of yoga, his study of Sanskrit, and his academic exploration of dharma traditions. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Path to Jain Studies: Dr. Bohanec shares his academic and personal journey, highlighting the pivotal role of yoga and Sanskrit in his studies. The significance of Sanskrit in Jain Studies and Yoga Studies is examined, emphasizing its academic and practical applications. Courses at Arihanta Institute: Insights into the graduate and certificate-level courses Dr. Bohanec teaches, offering a comprehensive look at the curriculum. Publications Preview: A sneak peek into Professor Bohanec's new book, Bhakti Ethics, Emotions, and Love in Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava Metaethics , and his co-edited volume Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement . ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Yoga in Jainism Conference 2024 Learn More: Master of Arts - Engaged Jain Studies - Now accepting applications! Scholarships available. 40+ Self-paced Online Courses | Jainism, Veganism, Animal Advocacy, Climate Change, Yoga, Professional Ethics, Social Justice Subscribe to the Arihanta Institute Newsletter Join us for an enriching discussion that explores the intersection of language, philosophy, and spiritual practice in Jain Studies. Subscribe and stay tuned for more enlightening episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Cogen Bohanec, MA, PhD, Assistant Professor at Arihanta Institute Cogen Bohanec currently holds the position of Assistant Professor in Sanskrit and Jain Studies at Arihanta Institute where he teaches various courses on Jain philosophy and its applications. In addition, he is a Visiting Assistant Professor at Claremont School of Theology (CST) where he teaches Sanskrit and Gujarati, and he has taught numerous classes on South Asian Culture & Religions and Sanskrit language at the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley. Dr. Bohanec specializes in the Jain and Hindu traditions, comparative dharma traditions, philosophy of religion, theo-ethics (virtue ethics, and environmental and animal ethics in particular), and Sanskrit language and literature, and has numerous publications in those areas, particularly in the fields of Jain and Hindu Studies amongst other disciplines. He has a PhD in “Historical and Cultural Studies of Religion” with an emphasis in Hindu Studies from GTU, where his research emphasized ancient Indian languages, literature, and philosophical systems. He also holds an MA in Buddhist Studies from the Institute of Buddhist Studies at GTU where his research primarily involved translations of Pāli Buddhist scriptures in conversation with the philology of the Hindu Upaniṣads. He is the author of “Bhakti Ethics, Emotions and Love in Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava Metaethics” (Lexington, 2024), an interdisciplinary study that frames traditional Hindu themes of ecotheology, ecofeminist theology, feminist care ethics, within a framework of virtue ethics in conversation with a bhakti-based psychology of emotions. Currently he is largely engaged in publication and research on various aspects of the Jain tradition, emphasizing translations and analyses of Jain Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Gujarati texts, but is also publishing academic works on various topics within the Hindu tradition. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST  Christopher Miller, PhD, Professor at Arihanta Institute Christopher Jain Miller is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement (SUNY 2025) and Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast , Arihanta Institute professors Cogen Bohanec and Jonathan Dickstein discuss the emerging field of Vegan Studies and the recently launched Vegan Studies Initiative (VSI@AI) at Arihanta Institute. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Defining Disciplines: Dr. Dickstein explores the distinctions and overlaps among Animal Studies, Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Vegan Studies, emphasizing the interdisciplinary approach of Vegan Studies. Asking the BIG Questions: The conversation delves into ethical considerations, questioning why we should care about animals amidst human suffering, war, and caste-based oppression. VSI@AI: Learn about the innovative online program that promotes and enacts veganism as an expression of multispecies nonviolence. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Subscribe to the Arihanta Institute Newsletter Course 1014 | Jainism, Veganism, and Engaged Religion w/ Profs. Jonathan Dickstein & Christopher Jain Miller Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! Voices in Vegan Studies Speaker Series | May - Dec 2024 Join us for an insightful and engaging discussion that underscores the significant role of Jain studies in dialogue with Vegan Studies and related contemporary fields of inquiry. Subscribe and stay tuned for more enlightening episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Jonathan Dickstein, PhD, Assistant Professor at Arihanta Institute Jonathan Dickstein is Assistant Professor of Jain Studies at Arihanta Institute and Visiting Assistant Professor of Religion at Claremont School of Theology. Jonathan specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Animals, and Comparative Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara and his master’s degree in Religious Studies from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals such as Religions , Philosophy East and West , Food Ethics , and Capitalism Nature Socialism . Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, extending into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. He is also the academic lead for the Vegan Studies Initiative at Arihanta Institute . Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Cogen Bohanec, MA, PhD, Assistant Professor at Arihanta Institute Cogen Bohanec currently holds the position of Assistant Professor in Sanskrit and Jain Studies at Arihanta Institute where he teaches various courses on Jain philosophy and its applications. In addition, he is a Visiting Assistant Professor at Claremont School of Theology (CST) where he teaches Sanskrit and Gujarati, and he has taught numerous classes on South Asian Culture & Religions and Sanskrit language at the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley. Dr. Bohanec specializes in the Jain and Hindu traditions, comparative dharma traditions, philosophy of religion, theo-ethics (virtue ethics, and environmental and animal ethics in particular), and Sanskrit language and literature, and has numerous publications in those areas, particularly in the fields of Jain and Hindu Studies amongst other disciplines. He has a PhD in “Historical and Cultural Studies of Religion” with an emphasis in Hindu Studies from GTU, where his research emphasized ancient Indian languages, literature, and philosophical systems. He also holds an MA in Buddhist Studies from the Institute of Buddhist Studies at GTU where his research primarily involved translations of Pāli Buddhist scriptures in conversation with the philology of the Hindu Upaniṣads. He is the author of “Bhakti Ethics, Emotions and Love in Gauḍīya Vaiṣṇava Metaethics” (Lexington, 2024), an interdisciplinary study that frames traditional Hindu themes of ecotheology, ecofeminist theology, feminist care ethics, within a framework of virtue ethics in conversation with a bhakti-based psychology of emotions. Currently he is largely engaged in publication and research on various aspects of the Jain tradition, emphasizing translations and analyses of Jain Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Gujarati texts, but is also publishing academic works on various topics within the Hindu tradition. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In this episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast, join Arihanta Institute Professors Jonathan Dickstein and Christopher Miller for a compelling discussion on their shared passions and professional journeys. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS A Fortuitous Meeting: Listen to the story of how Professors Dickstein and Miller first met at an airport during an academic conference, quickly discovering their mutual interests in yoga, Jainism, South Asian religions, veganism, animal advocacy, and social justice. Redefining the Practitioner: Explore how Dickstein and Miller are reinterpreting the concept of a "practitioner" as someone who actively addresses society's most pressing concerns, aligning with the core values of the Jain tradition. Personal and Professional Values: Learn about how their personal values of compassion and advocacy are deeply intertwined with their academic pursuits and teachings. Course Spotlight: Gain insights into their course "Jainism, Veganism, and Engaged Religion" at Arihanta Institute, where they delve into these topics in greater depth, offering students a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of these fields. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Learn More: Master of Arts - Engaged Jain Studies - Now accepting applications! Scholarships available. Course 1014 | Jainism, Veganism, and Engaged Religion w/ Profs. Jonathan Dickstein & Christopher Jain Miller Vegan Studies Initiative @ Arihanta Institute | Courses, Speaker Series, Research & More! Voices in Vegan Studies Speaker Series | May - Dec 2024 Join us for an engaging conversation that highlights the significant role of Jain studies in contemporary issues and showcases the dedication of these scholars to promoting a more just and compassionate world. Listen now to discover how Jain philosophy can inform and inspire modern advocacy and ethical practices. Subscribe and stay tuned for more enlightening episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Jonathan Dickstein, PhD, Assistant Professor at Arihanta Institute Jonathan Dickstein is Assistant Professor of Jain Studies at Arihanta Institute and Visiting Assistant Professor of Religion at Claremont School of Theology. Jonathan specializes in South Asian Religions, Religion and Animals, and Comparative Ethics. He received his doctoral degree in Religious Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara and his master’s degree in Religious Studies from the University of Colorado, Boulder. Jonathan has published in a wide array of interdisciplinary journals such as Religions , Philosophy East and West , Food Ethics , and Capitalism Nature Socialism . Jonathan’s current work focuses on Jainism and contemporary ecological issues, extending into Critical Animal Studies, Food Studies, and Diaspora Studies. He is also the academic lead for the Vegan Studies Initiative at Arihanta Institute . Jonathan considers himself a scholar-practitioner, having spent many years not only in libraries but also in public advocating for justice for both humans and nonhumans alike. ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Christopher Miller, PhD, Professor at Arihanta Institute Christopher Jain Miller is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement (SUNY 2025) and Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age (Lexington 2020). Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

In the premiere episode of the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast, host and podcast producer Taina Rodriguez-Berardi sits down with Christopher Miller, PhD, co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at Arihanta Institute . Together, they delve into the genesis, aims, and aspirations of this groundbreaking podcast. EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Defining Key Terms: Dr. Miller clarifies the practical differences between "engaged," "applied," and "embodied" studies of religion and spirituality, providing listeners with a foundational understanding of these concepts. Dr. Miller’s Unique Journey: From his beginnings as a public accountant to becoming a professor of Engaged Jain Studies and Modern Yoga, Dr. Miller shares his inspiring career transformation. Learn about his path to co-founding an innovative online institution for higher learning. The Podcast’s Vision: Discover the motivations behind the podcast and why it serves as a crucial resource for both Jains and non-Jains, as well as academics and general listeners interested in religious and spiritual studies. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES & LINKS Arihanta Institute | Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living Learn More: Master of Arts - Engaged Jain Studies - Now accepting applications! Scholarships available. 40+ Self-paced Online Courses | Jainism, Veganism, Animal Advocacy, Climate Change, Yoga, Professional Ethics, Social Justice Subscribe to the Arihanta Institute Newsletter Arihanta Institute YouTube Channel - For replays of our events, conferences, and Speaker Series, head to the Arihanta Institute Youtube Channel. Join us as we explore the significant role of Engaged Jain Studies in contemporary discourse and why this podcast is set to become an essential listen for a diverse audience. Listen now to gain insights into the vibrant world of Jain studies and the dynamic intersection of religion, spirituality, and modern academic inquiry. Subscribe and stay tuned for more enlightening episodes! ********** ABOUT OUR PODCAST GUEST Christopher Miller, PhD, Professor at Arihanta Institute Christopher Jain Miller is the co-founder, Vice President of Academic Affairs, and Professor of Jain and Yoga Studies at Arihanta Institute . He completed his PhD in the study of Religion at the University of California, Davis and is also a Visiting Researcher at the University of Zürich's Asien-Orient-Institut and Visiting Professor at Claremont School of Theology where he co-developed and co-runs a remotely available Masters Degree Program focusing on Engaged Jain Studies . His current research focuses on Engaged Jainism and Modern Yoga, and he is the author of a number of articles and book chapters concerned with Jainism and the practice of modern yoga. Christopher is the author of Embodying Transnational Yoga: Eating, Singing, and Breathing in Transformation (Routledge 2024), as well as co-editor of the volumes Engaged Jainism: Critical and Constructive Approaches to the Study of Jain Social Engagement (SUNY 2025) and Beacons of Dharma: Spiritual Exemplars for the Modern Age (Lexington 2020). ABOUT OUR PODCAST HOST Taina Rodriguez-Berardi, MBA, MA, Arihanta Institute Taina Rodriguez-Berardi (she/her/hers) is a scholar-practitioner of Yoga’s history, philosophy, traditions, and Sanskrit texts. She earned an MA in Yoga Studies from Loyola Marymount University where her research focused on the historical origins, culture, and customs of transnational yoga systems at their intersection with contemporary social justice movements and advocacy communities. Taina has also worked for more than 18-years as a marketing and communications executive in the tech, higher-education, and non-profit sectors, leading large international teams to drive corporate strategy and develop community-first approaches to marketing, public relations, and social media implementation. After earning her Master of Business Administration at San Diego State University, she melds her passion for Dharmic studies with her experience developing business strategy and brand marketing campaigns to mentor and consult with conscious businesses and social entrepreneurs who aspire to bring compassion and wellness to the masses. Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute

Welcome to the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast brought to you by Arihanta Institute. Listen to top figures in the fields of Jain Studies, Religious Studies, Vegan Studies, and Social Justice discuss pressing issues of everyday relevance. Together let’s move beyond the realm of personal spiritual growth and connect philosophy, religion, and spirituality to the important task of caring for the wellbeing of society. Learn about your world and how to change it on the Engaged Jain Studies Podcast Trailer . The Engaged Jain Studies Podcast is brought to you by Arihanta Institute, an IRC 501(c)(3) nonprofit California Corporation. At Arihanta Institute, we bridge ancient wisdom with contemporary living through accessible, self-paced online courses, free events, and a first-of-its kind Master of Arts program in Engaged Jain Studies. Visit ArihantaInstitute.org to learn how our curriculum, spanning Jain philosophy, social justice, veganism, environmental studies, and more, can enrich your understanding of timeless principles in today's context. Jai Jinendra! Copyright 2025 Arihanta Institute