Being interviewed this week is a guy who has many Cool Point worthy traits: He’s from the Midwest (holla!), he does stand-up and even runs his own open mic at one of the hippest comedy venues in town, he’s a manager at the equally hip music store Twist & Shout, and he— wait, what’s this? He doesn’t eat vegetables?! Forget I said anything.

Meet Jeff Albright.

What is your name?
Jeff M. Albright

How long have you been a non-vegan?
40 years.

Why have you decided not to be vegan? Describe your journey to veganism and where you got stalled.
I actually don’t eat any vegetables at all. I have a horrible aversion to vegetables, especially when they are cooked. I gag like crazy and have difficulty swallowing. I will eat an occasional salad or raw carrot but that is it.

What do you EAT!?
I have a very Midwestern diet of meat and potatoes. I eat a lot of breads and starches as well as fruits of all kinds. I actually still eat like I’m 12 years old. Processed and frozen foods make up much of my diet. I honestly wish I could go vegan, as I am an avid animal lover but it would be way too difficult for me both physically and monetarily.

Where do you get your protein?
Meat.

What vegan food do you fear you’re missing out on as a non-vegan?
Healthy ones.

Do you eat fish? You eat fish, right?
I am actually not much of a fish eater. I don’t hate it but it is not my favorite. Lake fish that has been fried is acceptable but salmon is a no way! I do enjoy seafood though: lobster, shrimp, etc…

Are there any animals in your life, such as pets or funny neighborhood squirrels? Tell us a story about them.
I have three dogs, three fish and a turtle. The dogs are a male Italian Greyhound, a female Boston Terrier and they had a male puppy who we kept. The fish were originally turtle food but she decided she wanted friends so they remain.

What do you do for fun besides eating meat and dairy?
Comedy, flag football and Colorado outdoor activities.

Do you have any upcoming projects you want to plug? Tell us about them.
I host the Open Mic Comedy Night at Voodoo Comedy Playhouse every Monday from 8-10 pm with free pizza from our sponsor, Sexy Pizza. I will be competing in the New Faces contest at Comedy Works this summer as well.

Make up a question of your own and answer it.
If you could/would give up any meat, what would it be?
Pork. I want to give it up because I have trouble rationalizing eating such a smart animal, but bacon is good.

Song: “Alive” By Pearl Jam
Recipe: Vegan Pigs in a Blanket
Resource: “Eating Vegan on the Cheap” By Kathy Freston