The Animal That Changed You

Latest Episodes:

How Rescuers Handle Emotions and Upcoming Changes for The Animal That Changed You Feb 15, 2023

Spurred by a bothersome text exchange between Jenny’s rescue friend and a local person who wanted to rehome four puppies, in this week’s episode, Katya and Jenny find themselves discussing what it takes emotionally to be in the field of animal welfare. The toll, the toil, and the tribulations.

They share their feelings about how to deal with privileged people and the ways in which humans justify their ideas about animals, the struggle to resist the urge to numb out in this line of work, as well as the importance of healthy detachment so we don’t carry all the pain around constantly.

This convo helps the duo lean into announcing the big changes coming at The Animal That Changed You, why it was time for this change to be made, and what they hope for with their new podcast: Somebody Save Me! Because at the end of the day, it's the triumphs that keep us going when it comes to saving lives.

Katya and Jenny would love for you to let them know that you’re coming with them over to the new show and invite you to share what you think about it by emailing them at jennyandkatyasaveme@gmail.com. Get used to that new address and get in touch! And to Ophelia, dear Ophelia, the one who started it all - a forever love. RIP here, there, and everywhere.
The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook will remain open to you -- feel free to check out the website while you're at it.

Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Effect That Negative Biases Can Have on Bully Breeds Feb 08, 2023

Bully breeds - we love them, we’ve taken the time to educate ourselves about them, and we can talk about them until we’re blue in the face. But not everyone is as open-minded when it comes to these particular kinds of dogs.

Because of two upsetting meet and greets Jenny had to deal with recently, this week Katya and Jenny find themselves discussing how peoples’ negative biases can affect Pitbulls, even when they’re precious little wee pups. The duo shares about their own positive experiences with bully breeds and their own frustrations with people who make automatic assumptions. They also talk about the shift from The Animal That Changed You, which is ending, toward their new podcast: Somebody Save Me, which launches in a week! It's bittersweet but purposeful, and Jenny and Katya hope you'll join them on the ride because they're in it for you, hopefully with you.
And if you have more than one bully breed dog, they especially want to hear from you! How did you navigate the relationship between your dogs? How do you navigate other peoples' biases? Listen to this episode and then email your bully stories and tell K&J all about your bully love at: jennyandkatyasaveme@gmail.com

Also don’t forget to follow the new socials at @somebodysavemepodcast on Instagram and TikTok! The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook will remain open to you -- feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

What It’s Like to Build a Brand with Social Impact with Jonathan Weiner Feb 01, 2023

Whether you’re in the rescue world as a non-profit business or a for-profit business wanting to help non-profits, there are two common driving forces: passion and community. To dive into these topics more, Katya and Jenny are joined by Jonathan Weiner of The Mutt Dog, a clothing and apparel brand that helps raise funds for shelters.

With Jonathan’s perspective from a for-profit business and Jenny’s perspective from a non-profit, the three of them discuss the possibility of blending passion and business. Not only does it raise the questions of, “Can it be done?” but how it can be done to create a social impact.

Tune in to hear Jonathan’s insights as an entrepreneur with a brand in its early stages and the pain points it comes with, how Jenny and Katya can relate as they pivot the podcast, and why they all think “mixed breed is the new breed.”

To be part of a community that wants to provide support to shelters around the world, check out the clothing and apparel at www.themuttdog.com and be sure to follow @themuttdog on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok!
To keep up with what’s coming next for The Animal That Changed You, subscribe to the show and tell all your animal-loving friends, too!
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Importance of Building Trust Between Rescuers & Adopters and Dogs & People Jan 25, 2023

The ability to see all dogs as perfect just the way they are -- this the blessing and the curse of an animal rescuer. To them, no dog is unsavable despite their challenges, but even though the rescuer may not find things problematic, others often do. And rescuers need adopters to keep on going.

This creates a delicate balance within the animal welfare community. Honesty is essential in order to build trust, in order to find each animal their right match. But that doesn't mean it's an easy or quick process. In this episode, Katya and Jenny tackle the topic of transparency. How can we build dependable relationships with fosters and adopters while giving animals the best chance possible to find a family? How can we build trust with our dogs too, and never sacrifice the value of saving lives?

Other topics come up too in this episode from discussing a future Animal Care Expo trip to New Orleans to the upcoming changes to The Animal That Changed You podcast; from the reasons why social media can be detrimental to peoples’ perception of dogs to how breathwork can benefit the animal welfare community. You know how this duo does it - they bring it all, they swing wildly, and they open their arms wide to hold you close. Listen and feel the hug.

To keep up with what’s coming next for The Animal That Changed You, subscribe to the show and tell all your animal-loving friends, too!
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

What Imposter Syndrome Looks Like in the World of Animal Rescue Jan 18, 2023

Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and let go of all that pressure you’re putting on yourself to create a perfect environment as a foster, as a rescuer, as a human with an animal you love! Okay, whew, we all needed that! Especially for this week’s episode where Katya and Jenny get vulnerable about the strenuous emotions surrounding animal welfare and animal activism.

From Katya acknowledging how weighed down she can get by negative thoughts (and normalizing that no one is above being affected by it) to Jenny sharing how imposter syndrome shows up in the world of animal rescue, these ladies waste no time getting real and raw in this conversation. There is the recounting of a harrowing New Year’s Day mishap. There is the reality of a match not working out when it comes to fostering dogs and how we can recover from admitting when a dog is not forever pet for us.
Jenny and Katya dig into topics like how to confidently show up in rescue even after you fail, how not trusting yourself or your animal feels and affects them (and you,) the immense difficulty in having to say “no” to saving lives, and how social media can impact the progress of animal welfare for better and for worse. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Why am I doing this?” as it pertains to loving or helping animals, you're not alone. The two women are here for you...and this episode is dedicated to you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

What It’s Like to Work With a Holistic Veterinarian with Dr. Heather O’Leary Jan 11, 2023

Opting to take a holistic approach to care for your dog or any animal versus utilizing conventional medicine might seem too ”woo-woo” for some people. But not for Katya, Jenny, and this week’s guest, Dr. Heather O’Leary, a holistic veterinarian with her own practice, TessaLoo Veterinarian Services, in Olivebridge, NY.

Dr. Heather joins Katya and Jenny to share stories about how she came to be a holistic veterinarian and the animal who led her down this path. She also shares what practicing homeopathic medicine actually looks like, why it is both similar to and different from regular veterinary care. Noting the differences raises questions about whether or not this approach to animal care is equitable for rescues and shelters, for everyone. And this turns the conversation towards the best ways that dog or cat parents can advocate for their animal's care regardless of what kind of medicinal practice it is. Jenny and Katya ask: What should they look for in a veterinarian? What about when a holistic vet is not available? Dr. Heather answers: It is always a personal decision. You are the expert on your own pet. She'll soon be releasing videos to help more people have access to her type of approach.
So if you’ve been wondering just what a holistic approach for pets looks like, you’ll want to listen to this discussion! If you want to learn more about the challenges that veterinarians face day in and day out, Katya and Jenny recommend listening to their friends over at The Vets Unleashed podcast. Lastly, if you want to help support a litter of seven puppies that Katya’s friend rescued from the middle of nowhere, donate to Better Together Dog Rescue and include the note, “Seven Pups from the Pines”. Because it's all about saving lives here at TATCY, all of us in it together, with you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Marketing Strategies That Actually Work for Rescue Dogs with Jamie Ruden Jan 04, 2023

When it comes to marketing animals for rescue, what works without making people feel guilty or obligated? How do you ensure your campaign is cute or funny, direct, and never boring? Jamie Ruden, the founder of Be Spotted and Dog Spotted, joins Katya and Jenny in this episode to share her expertise on the best ways to market rescue dogs.

Jenny and Katya seek advice on how to market pets that may be considered challenging, troublesome, or highly dependent. Jamie provides tips on which marketing strategies work to attract the right fosters or adopters in these kinds of situations and more. Jamie also talks about the importance of search engine optimization (SEO) and how to use keywords in marketing descriptions, emphasizing the need to be as clear and detailed as possible.

Finally, Jamie highlights resources that offer education and support as well as build community among other fosters and adopters. Finally, the trio talks about why investing in a marketing coach or a life coach is necessary to uplevel personal and business goals.

If you want to learn more about marketing tools and resources for small pet businesses and pet solopreneurs or if you are seeking information on how to connect with other animal lovers–this conversation is especially for you!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Seeing Rescue Dogs in a Different Light: A NYE Party with Brittnie Battle Dec 28, 2022

Here’s a hard truth: whether we do it intentionally or not, we tend to think of rescue dogs as “broken." It may not be a conscious thought. It might not be deliberate. But our behaviors often show that this belief is there inside of us. This week we're bringing back Brittnie Battle of Charlie’s Angels Saving Animals (CASA), a 501c3 non-profit rescue transport organization in Tennessee, to share insight on how we can look inward and shift our mindset about rescue dogs.

Jenny and Katya catch up with Brittnie and explore a wide range of topics from kennel cough to caring for sick dogs to how shelters with limited resources do it, how they go on, when they can sometimes barely meet the basic needs of the animals in care. The trio discusses if these same dogs, many who experience a reality of scarcity in their environment, can bounce back and heal from the learned desperation and possibly from learned resource guarding, and how that kind of guarding may differ from dogs with a genetic predisposition to resource guard.
Still, these ladies manage to keep things lighthearted and get back to chatting about whether “ugly” dogs (and cats) exist. Spoiler alert: they do! But they insist that there's magic to ugliness and that of course it doesn't mean these animals are any less lovable. Brittnie even shows how “ugliness” can be embraced by introducing Katya and Jenny to Mandu the Warthog Dog! Finally, Brittnie, Jenny, and Katya reveal their New Year resolutions and invite their listeners to donate and help CASA Transport and Better Together Dog Rescue reach their 2023 goals.
Happy new year, wonderful community of animal lovers. Big changes are coming next year and we can't wait to share more with you. Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Beauty of Fostering a Dog and What It Does for Your Soul Dec 21, 2022

If you’ve ever considered fostering a dog, this episode with Katya and Jenny might be the one that convinces you to do it. Jenny gets real about the sucky part of fostering and how she recently dealt with the pain of letting a foster go.
But then they dive into why you should try fostering, shedding light on how fostering a dog doesn’t just help animals; it’s something that is actually a beautiful gift that adds love, purpose, and connection to your life, even if it doesn’t turn out to be a forever fit.
In this episode, Katya and Jenny also share updates about next week’s live New Year’s episode, next year’s Animal Care Expo in New Orleans, upcoming workshops, a big grant Better Together received from Tito’s Vodka for Dog People, and where to donate if you have the means for end of the year donations.
If you're on the fence about fostering a dog or unsure how it can impact your life, this conversation is for you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How the Spirits of Our Pets Live on Through Us with Alisha Gaddis Dec 14, 2022

Can the spirits of our beloved animals overlap? How connected are we to our beloved pets? Have you ever looked into an animal's eyes and thought… “I know you”?
In this episode of The Animal That Changed You, author, comedian, singer, and lifetime dog lover Alisha Gaddis joins the show to talk about manifesting dreams, spirit animals, and the animal who changed her, a childhood dog, a true love in her life, Duke. She tells Jenny and Katya how Duke passed while she was in college, and how she knew it, she felt it, on the very night he died as she dreamed a vivid dream of running and playing in a meadow with him. The next morning, she got the call that he’d passed, and as Alisha recounts the sacredness of their connection, you can practically hear Jenny's' goosebumps. Then Alisha opens up and talks about how since the passing of her brother, anytime she needs him, he comes to her in the form of a hummingbird, something Katya can relate to because Ophelia manifests for her all the time, all over the place, especially when she asks for her.
This is episode is full of dualities. Woo woo but grounded. Touching yet funny. It's Alisha standing for the connection to the animals we love and Jenny and Katya standing for the connection to the animals who save us, and yet despite this earnest, deep appreciation, it's also just three women talking about rocking a pair of stilettos to school drop-off and the importance of fancy dresses. Because animal people aren't always what meets the eye. And neither is an animal's soul.
If you have any stories of your own connection to your spirit animal or the spirits of your pets, email theanimalthatchangedyou@gmail.com so Katya and Jenny can share it right here, on the podcast!
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Efficacy and Morality of Breeding Dogs versus Adopting Rescue Dogs from a Shelter Dec 07, 2022

Okay, let’s take some deep breaths. Warning: today’s episode will likely bring about strong feelings, but you know Katya and Jenny. They don’t shy away from discussing the ins and outs of a topic pertaining to animals just because it’s challenging! So, they’re talking about breeding. They’re talking about dogs bred for profit or on accident, about spay or neuter, about health issues and how some dogs can’t even give birth naturally anymore.
In this episode of The Animal That Changed You, the central question is this: if we paid attention to which dogs were being bred, if we bred for personality and health instead of breed confirmation or aesthetics, how much better off would we be when it comes to having dogs? Because otherwise, adopting a dog is no “riskier” than purchasing one. Because otherwise, it’s about looks without any regard to genetic disposition, nature or nurture, and that means more money spent to get the dog doesn’t buy you a guarantee.
But then. Prioritizing character when it comes to breeding means not every rescue dog being spayed and neutered, means not leaving the breeding of which dogs come into this world up to chance or profit. It also means cultivating more patience with the dogs that are living now as we learn how to best help them and love them, how to reinforce good behavior and set them up to succeed, knowing we’d prefer not to create more of them.

There may not be an easy solution, but Jenny and Katya bring it and they hope it gets you thinking, gets you talking, and motivates you to send them an email and get in on the convo. Because the benefits and risks of breeding versus adoption is not a one-size-fits-all discussion, and it’s definitely controversial. So your feedback and thoughts are welcome here, are called for, and are already appreciated.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much! (And if you’ve already left a review and need to get in touch about a prize, email us for it!)
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Animal Welfare and Providing Care for Rescue Dogs with Sam Woyak Nov 30, 2022

In this episode of The Animal That Changed You, we are joined by Sam Woyak, caregiver extraordinaire at Best Friend’s Animal Society's sanctuary! With the wealth of knowledge Sam has gained, day in and day out, through taking care of rescue and shelter dogs, she shares her experiences of working in the animal welfare field. And she's unafraid to talk about her very first job in the industry, the one before Best Friends, the one that broke her.
It's a pleasure to hear Sam's personal stories about her time with dogs, from the light and funny to her relationship with a dog rescued from a fighting ring. Though at times things take on a more serious tone, like when Jenny and Sam discuss the intricacies and complexities of “no kill” ideals, listening to Sam just feels good, like hanging out with an old friend you're glad to be around.
Finally, Katya, Jenny and Sam discuss the importance of paying attention to how dogs communicate, assessing and understanding their reactions, and always giving them agency. They conclude that at the end of the day, every living being has the right to defend themself in the ways they know how. This is a (vegan) meaty episode that connects like-minded animal lovers with each other, while making space for those are just warming up to their own passion for animal welfare. And if you happen to have a soft spot in your heart for dogs, this conversation is for you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Addiction & Animal Advocacy: The Duality of Self-Care and Animal Welfare Nov 23, 2022

Are addicts attracted to animal rescue? When does being of service become codependency?
In this episode of The Animal That Changed You, Jenny and Katya get very real. Like, very very real. They take an honest deep dive into their relationship between animal loving, food addiction, and eating disorders. They shed light on the tornado of shame, guilt, and self-hatred that comes with disordered eating, and how that can be affected by the added stress of being a passionate animal advocate. J & K discuss how difficult it can be to implement self-care while fighting the good fight for animal welfare, especially when being pulled by sugar or restriction, dealing with weight gain or loss.
But on a brighter note, Jenny and Katya highlight how very important it is for animal lovers to prioritize their own health and well-being, and they call on the community for support. Because we can't give what we don't have so if we want to help animals, we must help ourselves. Bonus update: tune in to hear what's going on with Penny, the adorable Pitbull Jenny rescued from he streets of Cleveland, Texas!
And if you are dealing with any of the issues talked about in this episode, don’t hesitate to reach out and email theanimalthatchangedyou@gmail.com so Katya and Jenny can point you towards mental health professionals they trust. Though they are not therapists, they will hold space for you and remind you that your recovery matters.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Answering Difficult Questions Regarding Shelter Dogs and Euthanasia with Sue Sternberg Nov 16, 2022

The one and only Sue Sternberg is on the show today so y'all might want to take a seat, grab a cocktail or a hot tea, and sink in. Get ready for a very honest talk from a renowned behaviorist with 30+ years of experience working with dogs and a keen ability to look at all sides of complicated situations. Sue is able to hold space for what is difficult or heartbreaking or even downright dangerous, and she doesn't shy away from the truth.
As you know, Katya and Jenny are major shelter dog people so this discussion was like catnip for them. It brought them front and center to many of the controversies within animal rescue, temperament testing, and the 3 general categories we can think about when we're assessing dogs. Sue shares her data, her experiences, and how she got into this line of work, and she explains why she thinks society’s definition of “good dogs” has changed over the last few decades. From nature versus nurture to why some people who work in animal shelters avoid assessing dogs overall to the polarizing decisions around euthanasia, this is an incredibly eye-opening episode for animal lovers and dog parents everywhere.
If you’ve ever wanted a close up and highly informative look at rescue dogs and behavior, this episode is for you. If you've ever wanted to hear a cutting edge dog trainer who isn't afraid to challenge and debate others as well as her own ideology, then Sue is somebody you might want to know. Jenny and Katya sure are glad they do. (Yeah, if you've ever wanted to hear two co-hosts fan girl hard then definitely tune in.)
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

What the 3-3-3 Rule Is and How it Applies to Foster Dogs Nov 09, 2022

Katya and Jenny break down the 3-3-3 rule for y'all today. That's right, it's a day of 3's. From explaining what the 3-3-3 rule actually is to unpacking why patience, time, and understanding are necessary when a rescue dog adjusts into your home, these animal-loving ladies highlight how to set you and your adopted dog up for a lifetime of success.
Together, Jenny and Katya share stories about their own foster and rescue dogs and how they've relied upon the 3-3-3 rule time and time again. You'll hear some updates from Jenny about Glover, Katya will reveal some of her experiences with Wally, and you'll walk away with many ideas and tools to support your own dog relationships.
This is an episode chock full of special connections, insight into the process of fostering, and tips for transitioning rescue animals into your family. Because hey, it’s all about opening our minds, hearts, and homes, right? 3-3-3 for all 3.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

All Things Sanctuary and Barn Animals with Kathy Stevens Nov 02, 2022

Kathy Stevens is in the house today! A farm girl, writer, teacher, and the founder of Catskill Animal Sanctuary, a 150-acre refuge for farm animals rescued from cruelty, neglect, and abandonment, Kathy joins us to share the behind-the-scenes look at 20+ years of running a sanctuary.
She shares stories of incredible rescues, from her most recent rescue, taking in 40 sheep at once, to what made Kathy decide to start an animal sanctuary specifically for farm animals in the first place. This episode is an inspiration for anyone who truly loves all creatures.
Kathy divulges how many of the animals end up at Catskill Animal Sanctuary, what hoarding looks like, and most importantly, the art of saying no to protect your own energy. It's amazing to hear about the activities that take up most of her time these days and how she introduces farm animals to one another in order to help them coexist peacefully. And they do. So many animals do. We humans can learn a lot from them.
If you’ve ever been curious about or have wanted to sink into barn life, then tune in to hear from one of the industry’s most prolific figures. Because Kathy makes the Catskill Animal Sanctuary thrive and survive so that countless animals can too.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Intuitive Nature of Our Pets with Margo Donohue Oct 26, 2022

Today on The Animal That Changed You, we’re joined by Margo Donohue! Margo is the brain and heart behind the blog, Brooklyn Fit Chick. She's a lover of pop culture, podcasting, writing, health, and fitness as well as the author of the new “Filmed in Brooklyn,” Margo’s first book project for History Press.
Margo shares with us intimate stories about her two cats, Sarah and T, recounting how she became the lucky mom to Brooklyn’s cutest kitties. Sure, the patience she had to cultivate as she adjusted to become a new cat mama was not an easy feat. But she's so happy she did it! Margo tells us how Sarah has the innate ability to sense whenever Margo is in need of a lap snuggle, she discusses how her cats play a part in her creative process, and how, ultimately, they have immensely changed her life.
This is an uplifting conversation about how our pets are there for us through thick and thin, a reminder of animals' amazing ability to gift us creativity, comfort, and safety.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Astrology of Animal Relationships with Heidi Rose Robbins Oct 19, 2022

Calling all the believers, the brave ones, the spirit seekers! Guys, today we have a truly incredible episode. We’re joined by the one and only astrologer and poet, Heidi Rose Robbins, to dive into the world of animals and astrology. Being that this is one of the most popular ways we can discover ourselves, we thought: why not explore how astrology can help us better understand animals and our relationships with them?
Enter our guest, Heidi, a professional astrologer for over 25 years. After thousands of clients, she is here to discuss animals with us in relation to our charts. She pinpoints some of the specific patterns in birth charts that may lend themselves to loving animals, whether because we're naturally nurturing or fierce protectors. Then, Heidi reaffirms the work that Katya and Jenny do together through what's reflected in their respective birth charts. Then, she identifies why their partnership is a perfect match, how their overlap makes them almost destined. Then, Katya and Jenny squeal and cry about it.
This is such a fun episode so make sure you tune in to listen and tune in to connect with the stars. Hearing Heidi describe how animals come into our lives full of intention and how our individualized missions are bolstered by their love might change your ideas about the intuitive, guiding light that astrological charts can offer all living beings.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

A Raw, Emotional Look at Making the Tough Choice of Euthanasia Oct 12, 2022

Today we’re pulling back the curtain. Stay with us, come closer, lean in and join us in this raw, honest, and vulnerable discussion. We pride ourselves in our authenticity and ability to bare it all on The Animal That Changed You, but this is admittedly a difficult episode because we’re facing the situation in real time. Because it’s controversial. Because it deals with matters of the heart weighed against matters of the head.
Jenny shares with Katya the very hard decision she is tasked with making: euthanizing and putting down a puppy who proved to be dangerous. Who proved to bring with him a situation that could not be managed or controlled. What we share today is the tough reality that many in animal welfare have to face daily, that too many still don’t discuss. But we want to talk about it, about all of it - the guilt, the feeling like you’ve failed this animal, the shame, the relief, the strength, the crumbling, the peace. And we want to talk about it with you.
It’s an emotional episode no doubt, but we want you to know that we’re here to hold space for anyone and everyone who has ever had to make an unfair choice about a life. You’re not alone, and we’re here to support you through our experiences, our coaching, our compassion, and our friendship. Let us know what you think. Let us know what you feel. Even if this conversation makes you angry, we want to hear from you and learn from you. We are in the world of loving animals together.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Reframing the Public View on Pitbulls with Richard Jones Oct 05, 2022

We've got a TikTok superstar in the house today, friendos and friendas! Richard Jones is a police officer who works alongside two Pitbulls - his rescue Pitties, Ace and Jack. He has saved them, he has trained them to serve and protect, and he now shares videos of them to prove it. Not only are the videos of his dogs adorable and hilarious as well as offering behind-the-scenes insight into what it's like to be a copy, but his videos also show their off-duty lives. A dude and his dogs. Because they are also his pets, and the relationship they've built together is beautiful. Richard debunks the negative opinions about Pitbulls, demonstrating all the good they can do both as family members and as partners in fighting crime.

In this episode, Richard tells us about himself and his dogs, but let's not forget his cat! He is an animal lover through and through, even when he faced challenges with his second dog, Jack, who ultimately launched his TikTok career. Hearing Richard talk about how he creates positive behavioral changes in his dogs and why dedicating his time to their training is such a worthwhile process truly filled our hearts. Because one thing is for certain: Richard embodies the importance of never giving up on another living being, no matter how hard it gets.

This episode is all about challenging beliefs whether they're about certain breeds of dogs, police officers, or people who've made mistakes. It's about second chances and the rewards that come from doing the hard work you're called to do when you dare to care. Ace and Jack are evidence enough that caring is the right move.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Highs & Lows of the Pet Adoption Process with Katya & Jenny Sep 28, 2022

Pet adoption is a truly rewarding experience. You're giving a loving home to an animal in need and adding a new family member into your life. But adopting a pet is also a big responsibility and it can come with changes and it might even come with challenges.
In this week's episode, Katya and Jenny explore the resources available to help you through the pet adoption process. One way to make it a smoother journey is to seek out support from a dog trainer or rescue friend, or even from a life coach or counselor who specializes in pet adoption. A little bit of guidance and a lot of understanding - to know you're not in it alone - can go a long way. There is incredible comfort offered when emotional support is given, and during an adjustment period, it means the world. This episode is the beginning of that comfort. And Katya and Jenny are always a DM on Instagram away from giving you even more support. They're there for ya.
So tune in and hear how to prepare for your new pet and hear why it matters to grow your life and your love with a rescue animal.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Rehabilitating Dogs and Making Difficult Decisions with Saharai Salazar Sep 21, 2022

Saharai Salazar is as close to a superhero for animals as it gets. With over 18 years of experience working with canines, Saharai has become a dog rehabilitator, a death row dog advocate, and the go-to person to turn homeless dogs into superstars.

In today’s episode, Saharai shares her story, both professionally and personally, that led her to becoming a shelter dog rehabilitator who works with extreme cases of fear, anxiety, and stress. She tells us about some of the incredible ways the Napa County Animal Shelter functions, and why it’s so important for shelters everywhere to assess their intake and evaluation processes. And Sahari brings up something that has been a common theme for season 2 of The Animal That Changed You: compassion fatigue. We discuss why it’s so important to come together with like-minded people and find a circle of support if you work in the animal welfare space.
This is an insightful, touching episode for animal lovers, especially if you wonder about how to help when the extra challenging. Tune in, get ready to be inspired, and hear about the waves Saharai is making for the dogs nobody else dares to reach. It's about resilience. It's about not giving up. It's about seeing beyond what you see. It's about extending a hand anyway and believing in the good of every living creature.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Finding the Heart Behind Animal Activism with Moby Sep 14, 2022

We have an incredibly special guest on today’s episode of The Animal That Changed You. The one and only Moby joins Jenny and Katya in a most insightful conversation about Moby’s activism, beliefs, and the animals who have changed him.

Moby is a wildly successful musician, producer, singer, and songwriter. He is also one of the most recognizable animal advocates and vegans out there. Hearing him get personal as he shares his stories of childhood is touching. Hearing his perspective on animal cruelty and how human choices can make all the difference is inspiring. Moby is the realest of the real deals and a joy to connect with. He shares how his love for animals developed at a young age, how he takes care of his mental well-being, and how he stays motivated to create when he’s feeling exhausted and frustrated by the reality of animal suffering. If there was a word for him, we'd pick peace. He is peace.

This is a truly epic episode and we feel so lucky to have Moby on our show because to talk with him is to feel, to really feel, the energy of compassion. So tune in and listen and share this episode if you love it as much as we do. Because Moby is one of the most notable animal activists, musicians, and public figures for a reason: he changes minds in a way that'll make you want to sing.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Overcoming the Challenges of Running a Non-Profit Animal Transport Organization with Brittnie Battle Sep 07, 2022

Does your community need better legislation for animal shelters and rescues? Join us as we welcome Brittnie Battle of Charlie’s Angels Saving Animals (CASA), a 501c3 non-profit rescue transport organization out of Tennessee. CASA brings animals from overcrowded / underfunded local shelters to rescues up in the northeast that don’t have the overpopulation problem that the South has.

In today’s episode, Brittnie talks about the challenges she faces while she's working to push a bill that will help enforce effective oversight of rural shelters in her area. She details the story behind CASA's inception, how CASA operates, and how they’re handling the rapid growth and demand their much-needed efforts bring to the animal welfare world. Brittnie also sheds light on how CASA has learned to create boundaries with shelters, and the discomfort and growth she experiences as they do so.
If you’re interested in proposing legislation to help animals in your state, want to know more about being a rescue partner with CASA, or if you want to get involved with transport (drivers are always needed), tune in to learn how. And thank you, thank you for braving uncomfortable things and growing pains too in order to save animals.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Cultivating Compassion and Supporting Animal Welfare Workers with Jessica Dolce Aug 31, 2022

Compassion fatigue is a real thing. Especially in the animal welfare industry, especially for those who feel and give with their whole hearts. And it isn’t talked about nearly enough. That's why we’re so excited to have Jessica Dolce here, a compassion fatigue educator and coach with incredible experience and an incredible mission.

In today’s episode, Jessica shares how she got started supporting people struggling with compassion fatigue precisely because of how deeply she had felt it herself. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, reducing stress, and finding satisfaction in your work so that you can make an impact but also be well while you do it. We discuss the complexities of uncertainty and why it’s essential to invest in supportive services for professionals in the animal welfare space so that longevity and overall health aren’t lost along their way.

If you want to learn how you can cultivate more compassion for yourself in the face of difficult situations, if you want to manage how much you care so that you can actually do more to help animals in the long run, then this episode is for you. Tune in as Jessica, Katya and Jenny go deep into a conversation that will bring you closer to your own resilience.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Self-Care and Supporting Women in Rescue with Cynthia Sweet Aug 24, 2022

Working in animal welfare and animal rescue can be incredibly taxing. Not only is it hard work, but it’s emotionally and mentally draining as well. You’re exposed to upsetting situations that effect both animals and people and it can take a toll on you. You're on call 24/7. So how do rescuers continue doing the important work they do?

Cynthia Sweet, founder of Sweet Paws rescue, a nonprofit in Massachusetts, joins the show today to discuss how the fallout after a pandemic caused an uptick in surrendered animals, how she aims to address the root of the overpopulation problem through teamwork and partnership with other rescue women, and how she strives to find balance. Sweet Paws focuses on supporting animals in two of the poorest counties in Mississippi and Alabama, transporting dogs and cats who don't have a chance locally to their neck of the woods up north where happy homes await. We talk about how different parts of the country experience different issues for animals, how she deals with the sadness of her work, and how she keeps going despite the hardships. It's the good people. It's the good stories. She focuses on those.

If you’re interested in getting involved in the animal rescue scene or perhaps even starting your own, this episode is for you. Tune in and hear Katya, Jenny, and Cynthia laugh and cry as they go over the importance of self-care, compassion, and community support, while remaining aware of intercultural relations and constant need in the world of animal welfare.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Complicated Street Dog Crisis in Cleveland, Texas Aug 17, 2022

Buckle up, friends. Today’s episode is a bumpy ride. Jenny and Katya get deep discussing the trip Jenny took with her board member Megan to Cleveland, Texas. What they witnessed there was upsetting to say the least. Stray dogs. Suffering animals. People in need. We want to take this opportunity to share the experience and talk it out with you in terms of what it means for the community. In terms of how we might be able to help no matter where we are.

It's complicated, the street dog crisis in Cleveland, Texas. Some of the animals are homeless, some dogs have families but are free to roam around and are sadly not in the best shape. But Katya and Jenny debate whether street dogs are better off than shelter dogs - a question that we can’t answer with full certainty as one group struggles openly and another behind bars. The thing is people and pets are always connected - animals need humans but humans also need animals. The dogs of Cleveland, Texas are intertwined with the community, with the people who live there and love them or don't. They carry their stories, they are part of those stories. And how the story will end is up to the support this area gets.

We wrap up this episode by opening the floor to you, by calling out for your ideas. Tune in, chime in, and share your thoughts on what we can do to address the stray dog crisis in Cleveland. Let's help humans and animals anywhere, everywhere, because the truth is their stories aren't separate from ours. It's the same book we're all part of.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Want to Help Animals? Here Are a Few Things You Can Do! Aug 10, 2022

Welcome to season 2 of The Animal That Changed You! Today, Jenny and Katya are kicking things off with a chat. A chat about you. More specifically, we're talking about how you, a fellow animal lover, can get more involved in the animal welfare space. How you can take action.

In this episode, we cover a wide range of ways big and small that you can make a difference so there’s an option for everyone. From the immediate steps you can take to support animal welfare, like donating, to the more longterm opportunities, like fostering, Katya and Jenny dig into the many possibilities there are for giving back. Even educating the children in your life goes a long way to help animals and is a form of activism. Finally, but of course, we talk about the importance of avoiding animal products to the best of your ability - not eating them, not using them, not exploiting them.

We're so excited for you to tune into this episode and to kick off this season with a bang! Let's share, let's help, let's care, let's love animals together. Let's do something about it.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Celebrating Our Growth from Season 1 and Where We’re Heading Next Aug 03, 2022

Can you believe that season 1 of The Animal That Changed You is officially coming to a close? In today’s final episode, I’m taking you on a walk through memory lane as we recap our growth across 52 episodes! You guys, I couldn't have done this without you. I mean it.

So I hope you'll join me in reminiscing on the many topics we've covered throughout our first season together and then we'll dig into some of the changes we've got coming for season 2! I'm thrilled that Jenny Franz will become my cohost as of next week so we can focus on activism both big and small, how our mindset affects animals, and how we can support animal rescuers who are doing the heavy lifting. Thanks for being here as we say goodbye in this short and sweet episode. Thanks for being the greatest community animals (and the people who love them) have ever had. See you next week with Jenny as we ramp up for a new season of The Animal That Changed You! We've got so much goodness in store for you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Power of Vision Work, Healing, and Dogs with Kristen McGuiness Jul 27, 2022

I’m so excited to introduce you to my guest today! Kristen McGuiness is an animal lover, best-selling author, publisher, teacher, and the founder of Rise Writers. She is also my friend as well as someone I am lucky enough to collaborate and work with.

In this convo, Kristen talks about the intuition she taps into whenever she's around animals. She opens up about dabbling in shamanic practice, her experience with energy medicine, and the centering vision work she does when it comes to animals and writing. (My two favorite subjects!) Then of course we dive into the animal who changed her, Peter, and how he has significantly influenced her, and not only because he's the hottest rescue dog on the planet. It's captivating to hear Kristen share stories about her childhood, talk openly about her dad, and reveal some of the ways his energy has remained in her life.
This is an incredibly inspirational conversation about the spirit of animals and the healing that can be found when you write about what matters most to you. Hope you enjoy it, hope you then write something, hope you then snuggle an animal who needs you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course, you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Meet Jenny Franz: The New Cohost of The Animal That Changed You Jul 20, 2022

Episode 50, you guys! And today's guest is truly a special one. Not only is she an incredibly remarkable woman, but she’s also going to be the new cohost of The Animal That Changed You season 2!

Meet Jenny Franz, founder and president of Better Together Dog Rescue in Massachusetts. She is funny AF, my pal, a badass mom, and obsessed with my Pitbull . You’re going to learn all about Jenny in this episode - how she got into rescuing dogs, what her relationship is like with other animals, and how motherhood fits into her purpose, a theme which will remain close to our hearts as we head into season 2. From allowing children to find their own passions, to listening to and following children’s instincts, from Texas transports to the varying nature of animal welfare, this conversation made me drop in all the way.

So tune in, meet your new cohost, and let's do what we’ve always done best - celebrate the animals that change us.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How Awareness Helps in the Fight for Animal Equality with Sharon Nuñez Jul 13, 2022

Sharon Nuñez is the co-founder and president of Animal Equality - an international organization working with governments, companies, and society at large to end cruelty to animals.

She joins the show today to have an incredibly important conversation about animal rights, about animal equality in the truest sense of those words, about what it means to be alive. Sharon shares a behind-the-scenes look into what it takes to work for her nonprofit, and talks about the experiences that undercover investigators go through, how they carry on after witnessing first-hand the many atrocities farmed animals each day of their lives. We discuss the power of shifting mindsets and why self-care is so incredibly important when it comes to fighting for animals. Last but not least, Sharon tells us how we can make a difference and why being aware is an act of resistance in and of itself.

I hope you listen to this episode with an open mind and open heart. I hope you take in what Sharon shares and consider supporting Animal Equality's tremendous mission. I hope you join in the fight so that every living being gets the chance they deserve to be free.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How to Support and Nurture a Foster Dog (with me, a serial Foster Mom) Jul 06, 2022

Fostering a dog is one of the most rewarding and magical experiences available. All we have to do is open our hearts and our homes. When you say yes to a foster dog, not only will you see the positive impact you make in their life, but you will also learn so much about yourself. About what you're capable of. About how good giving feels. You too will change and bloom.

In today’s episode, I talk you through the process of bringing home a shelter dog and how you can support and nurture him or her while they are in your care. Then I move into sharing my favorite tips, the practical advice you need to know before you bring that rescue pup into your actual house. A mindset of patience is important as there may be challenges. But by establishing a routine and giving your foster dog downtime so they can self-soothe, by setting them up to succeed and allowing them to decompress, the feedback loop will begin to build. That feedback loop created between you and your foster dog is the most sacred part of the exchange. You hear each other. You communicate. You bond. You trust the dog and the dog trusts you. And you trust you more too because of it. You feel stronger, healing parts of yourself you didn't even know needed love.

Fostering dogs has elevated my life. It's part of our family culture. Having them around is a daily practice that brings me closer to the More Than Me out there, and I don't want you to miss out on that ride. If you’ve ever thought about taking in a dog in need then this episode is for you. So you’re prepared. So you're supported. So it's fun! So you know you're not alone. Animal shelters everywhere are full. Wonderful dogs hope beyond bars. Fostering is worth it, the animals are worth it, the community you become part of is worth it, you're worth it. There is great friendship waiting for you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Showing Kindness and Compassion for Animals and People with the Vegan Godfather Prabhat Gautam Jun 29, 2022

I’m so excited to be joined by one of the most dedicated animal rights advocates I know, Prabhat Gautam. Prabhat is the founder of the Animal Advocacy Museum, he’s organized and coordinated hundreds of vegan and animal welfare events, and he’s also earned the nickname of "Vegan Godfather!"

In today’s episode, Prabhat shares his wisdom on the importance of radical, rigorous kindness and how it's based on the abandonment of judgment. We discuss some of the anger that animal activists might hold, and explore the importance of forgiveness and honoring healthy detachment as a way of life. I even tell Prabhat about my experience making amends through action, which was not easy but definitely necessary. Hearing his take on the overlap between passion and trauma is something I will continue to unpack, as Prabhat breaks down the tendency towards all-consuming beliefs while reminding me that the best thing we can do as people is to show compassion and be present with those who need us at any given moment. Whether we agree with them or not. And he does all of this while also making me laugh.

This is an episode that will inspire you to practice kindness not just for animals, but for yourself and those around you. Not just in what you do, but in how you think and how you are.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Addiction, Depression, and How Animals Saved Us with Chris Dale Jun 22, 2022

Okay, I won’t lie, this episode may be a tad … heavy. But it’s important, and there’s still some levity too, I promise!

Today’s talk with fellow writer and my dear friend, Chris Dale, is an exercise in honesty and recovery. We don’t hold back as we both revisit some of the most difficult times in our lives. From struggling with addictions to how we found healing, Chris and I reflect on our ongoing journeys and more importantly, how our rescues dogs played an integral role in finding wellness. Chris’s stories about his senior dog, Vector, and how Vector helped him rebuild his self-esteem and self-worth are so heartwarming and beautiful. And even hearing him share his fear over losing Vector one day, just as I feared the loss of my sweet Ophelia, brings about a conversation of deep meaning as we discuss the interwoven relationship between our recovery and our beloveds.

Tune into this raw and vulnerable episode and hear evidence of how animals are uniquely poised with a remarkable ability to save us from ourselves.

**TW: This episode mentions alcoholism, addiction, suicide ideation, and eating disorders.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Celebrating Pets Everyday with Beth Bellanti Jun 15, 2022

Welcome back to another episode of The Animal That Changed You! I am so excited to have a chance to chat with my good friend Beth Bellanti. She is, simply put, a beautiful soul.

You might wonder what Tito's Handmade Vodka has to do with pets. It might sound like kinda a stretch, but it's not. Beth works with Tito’s Handmade Vodka because the heart of the company is a bunch of dog lovers who work hard and do good. Today we chat about how Tito got into his business, about the power of their partnerships throughout the city of Austin and beyond, and about the unbreakable bond animal lovers have for those they rescue. Hearing Beth trace her lifelong love for pets back to childhood, hearing how her passion has grown into much more than she could have imagined, hearing how a corporate company invokes compassion and service, well...it just makes me want to be better person. It makes me hope the very systems that might look away can learn to lean in.

Thanks for listening to this great conversation focused on taking big action, loving animals hard, and maybe toasting yourself with a little drink (nonalcoholic or vodka-based!) at the end of the day.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Come Spend a Day with Me at the Austin Animal Center Jun 08, 2022

Hello friendas and friendos! Today I'm taking you on a field trip to the Austin Animal Center where I am lucky enough to volunteer. We’re peeling back the curtain on what it’s like to walk among all those kennels of homeless pets. Maybe you've never been to a shelter before, maybe you have adopted your dog from one but have never been back. Maybe the thought of going scares you or makes you cry. But I'm still bringing the shelter to you because volunteering is all about truth and beauty, and yes some pain, but more than anything, it's about hope.
As I take you behind the scenes, walk around the shelter campus, meet and interact with the shelter dogs and the badass, wonderful people who work there and volunteer there, I'll be chatting with you about the importance of caring for animals. Because it's never just about animals. It touches every person who that animal ever has or will ever love. It's about community.
If you’re an animal lover who has thought about volunteering at the shelter, this episode is for you. I hope you will join me there someday! And if you're already volunteering, dedicating your weekends, making the animals more adoptable by your very presence, I bow down to you. Simply put, you make the world a better place, not for glory, but for meaning. Your good energy is a lifeline, animal shelter volunteers and staff. You are so fun. You are my favorite peeps. You are heroes.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Finding Inspiration and Creativity in Our Relationship with Animals with Author Steven Rowley Jun 01, 2022

You guys know that my two heartbeats are animals and writing. So I'm super excited about today's conversation with none other than author Steven Rowley! This episode explores the overlap between animals and writing, particularly as it pertains to Steven’s incredible work. He shares about his career journey, offers advice for any authors out there who might feel impatient with the process, and provides a hefty does of inspiration by being his witty self.
Steven and I also discuss what makes pets the greatest teachers, and it's an honor to hear about the incredible relationship he had with the dog who inspired him to write Lily and the Octopus. Through his passion for animals and by understanding the unique relationship between humans and their pets, Steven delves into what it really means to surrender fully to love, as well as to loss after a pet's time comes.

This is a great episode for animal lovers and creatives alike. So tune in and get ready to put your pen to paper. Perhaps (hopefully!) you will write your own story too.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

A Behind the Scenes Look at Dog Rescue Culture with Nicole Patrick May 25, 2022

Nicole Patrick is a successful actress, a singer-songwriter, and an animal activist. She is also the founder of Chic Chien Chateau, a boutique non-profit, foster-based pet rescue located in NY and CT . She joins us today to share about her upbringing steeped in the arts and how it lead to loving animals. Hearing her describe how she awakened to the reality of pet stores, puppy mills, and backyard breeders is a story you won't want to miss. And then there was her life-changing experience working with animals in Africa that left her more determined than ever to make a positive impact on all living beings.
Nicole is passionate not only about saving animals but also about streamlining the adoption process. She shares some much-needed, brilliant ideas with us about how to potentially go about it, while giving us a peek into what it takes to run a rescue, with it's highs (helping people adopt!) and it's lows ( when rescuers get cliquey.)

This is an especially fun episode for dog lovers who are artists! Tune in to hear Nicole talk about how those worlds collide into something quite special.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the websitewhile you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How to Prevent Cruelty and Suffering for Community Cats with Sterling TrapKing Davis May 18, 2022

The founder of TrapKing Humane, an animal welfare non-profit organization helping community cats, is here with us today. Sterling "TrapKing" Davis is a truly impressive, authentic, and beautiful person who left his career in music to follow his heart and help animals.

In this episode, Sterling shares his important work with us along with the touching story of the animal who changed him. From what TNR is to why education and inclusion is vital in animal welfare, Sterling gives us a glimpse into his commitment for cats, which involves his travel-packed van life. He breaks down why it’s so important to pursue what fulfills you, why humane solutions are necessary when it comes to vulnerable creatures, and how the biggest enemy people in animal welfare face is often each other.

This is an eye-opening episode that will encourage you to follow your passions and inspire you to prevent suffering for community cats. It'll make you want to take action. It'll make you want to live by Sterling's motto of high-five's and hugs.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the websitewhile you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Daydreaming About Our Future and the Animals We Hope to Help with My Husband Eric May 11, 2022

My husband Eric is back on the show today and we’re keeping things casual! Join us as we daydream and share our vision for the future. We discuss the types of animals I’d love to help and rescue, the type of space I wish to create, and the lifestyle I envision for our family, which he doesn't necessarily see but is kind enough to roll with! I ask Eric some fun questions about what animals he'd let me bring home, he shares his thoughts on rescuing cats, and we agree on how many senior dogs he’d be alright with having at one time. Tune in to this lighthearted conversation and don’t forget to share your visions for the future with us too!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the websitewhile you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Importance of Community Involvement in Cat Rescue with Anna Dickerson-Homan May 04, 2022

Why is there a negative connotation around being a crazy cat person? Why don't more people get involved in Trap-Neuter-Release within their local communities? How can we look at taking care of homeless animals as an addition in our lives? How can we bear uncomfortable, difficult conversations in order to save more lives?

These are some of the many questions we explore today with Anna Dickerson-Homan, a cat rescuer and the force behind The Kitten Factory, with all those adorable pictures on Instagram! From feeding colonies to fostering kitties, she tells us how she tackles many of the feline issues (and myths) she faces so she can inspire more people to help orphaned kittens along with her. Because simply put: cats need our help! And community cats desperately need our help.

In today's meow-heavy episode, Anna and I chat about what sparked her passion for rescue, the hard work that goes into TNR, and why taking action, no matter how small, is what will truly help move the needle forward when it comes to saving animals. Just. Do. Something. It takes all of us. It affects all of us. We need you. They need you. And there are so many gifts to joining an animal-loving group.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Finding Unconditional Love From Animals with Jamie Wallace Grenier Apr 27, 2022

Jamie Wallace Grenier is an angel on this Earth. Big statement, still true! She has turned her land in Central Texas into a haven for animals and children who need connection, compassion, and unconditional love. She’s making a difference in her community by opening her gates at Safe In Austin and inviting in every human and animal who wants to be a part of her sacred space.

In this episode, we’re deep-diving into some beautiful topics, including how she has learned to let go of her protectiveness and let people do what they do, the importance of being kind and being present for animals and children, the struggle to balance motherhood and purpose, and why an animal’s love is so particularly healing.

Tune in to hear how Jamie brings people together and changes the world through helping animals. Tune in to be inspired. Tune in and feel the warm circle you belong to.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the websitewhile you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Building Stories Around Our Connection To Animals with Mark Gagliardi & Hal Lublin Apr 20, 2022

Mark Gagliardi and Hal Lublin from We Got This are here! This dynamic duo of improv performers, actors, and fellow podcast hosts are among the funniest people I've ever talked to. Today we chat about everything animal - from the animals who scare them to the ones that changed their lives.

We dive deep into why we chase special relationships with our pets, why some people go gaga for men who love cats, and what actually makes us feel what we feel about animals. One of these hilarious guys also reveals a secret fascination with Silver Backed Gorillas, and there's a bit about some very impressive improv bears. Tune in to listen to this incredible episode filled with jokes, puns, and a healthy dose of stories from the heart.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Animal and Patients that Changed Us with The Vets Unleashed Apr 13, 2022

Surprise! The vets are taking over and they’re here to add a unique perspective to The Animal That Changed You.

Dr. Scott and Dr. Mike from The Vets Unleashed are here to share stories all about the animals and patients that changed them. They take a walk down memory lane as Dr. Scott shares about the patient that changed him back when he was a brand new vet. Dr. Mike shares a story of a particular case that has stuck with him for years and how it has changed the way he treats his patients. From their unique experiences working with animals to offering a behind-the-scenes look into the world of veterinary medicine, the vets are here to share their love for animals and their clients’ pets.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

What Not to Do (Stories From My Own Experiences) Apr 06, 2022

We’re back with another solo episode. But today, I’m sharing 3 different stories of dangerous or dumb situations I put myself in because of animals. Although these stories are based on my own experiences, they are general safety tips to follow of what NOT to do!
I share some really not smart stuff I did - like getting in a small enclosed space with a stranger, walking into a stranger’s home to help a dog, and failing to know a dog’s limits which are necessary to keep everybody safe. What I'm saying, friendas and friendos is: save animals, help animals, rescue animals, love animals. But also do all of those things for yourself. Don't forget yourself.
This is a short episode but I hope my stories from the past serve as a gentle reminder to avoid putting yourself at risk or overlooking your own wellbeing, even if it’s for an animal you care about. You've got to take care of you so you can take care of animals.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

From Dog Lover to Manhattan’s Go-To Dog Trainer with Annie Grossman Mar 30, 2022

Annie Grossman is the co-founder and host of The School for Dogs training center in New York City. She joins us today to share her journey from being a regular dog lover to becoming Manhattan’s go-to dog trainer and a podcaster about all things dog.

We cover the importance of understanding the learning theory behind animal behavior and go over many of the ways in which you can bond with your pet, so this episode is a must for anyone who wants to delve into how to better communicate and build trust with a fur baby. Annie shares her expertise in dog training, she addresses some general tips for walking your dog with greater ease, and she shares why her current dog is the animal who changed her (even though this pup wouldn’t win any Best Dog awards! Sometimes the ones who challenges us the most teach us the most.)

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.

Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!

Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!

Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How To Peacefully Merge A Cat-and-Dog (& Child) Household Mar 28, 2022

Naomi Rotenberg, MA, KPA-CTP, FPPE, is a dog trainer and the owner behind Praiseworthy Pets. She's also the host of It's Training Cats & Dogs podcast and a double mom to two humans and a cat-dog pair!

Naomi joins us today to share her wisdom on how she helps cats and dogs live together peacefully. She tells us about how she came to be a pet-mom to Rio (the cat) and Uri (the dog), why her education enhanced her pet-training skills, and how she continues to help cat-and-dog families find solutions through easy-to-follow tools and resources dedicated specifically to the issues multi-species households face.

In this episode, you'll get a behind-the-scenes look into various dog training topics, including what barrier frustration is for dogs, the importance of teaching children how to behave around pets, and why I'm obsessed with extinction bursts. You'll also hear about how diet and nutrition can affect animal behavior and why our pets are often a direct reflection of ourselves (and how to handle the frustration that comes with that realization!)
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How Sherri Franklin is Saving Senior Animals and Making an Impact in San Francisco Mar 23, 2022

Sherri Franklin is the founder of Muttville Senior Dog Rescue. She was named a CNN Hero in 2016, which emphasizes the impact she’s had on the lives of senior animals and her community overall.

She joins us today to talk about her mission to help aging animals. Sherri explains how Muttville began, why she ultimately decided to do something about the animal shelter conditions she'd witnessed, and how she continues to sustain a growing Muttville all these years later. I also ask Sherri an important question, one I feel she’s best qualified to answer: How do we know when it is the right time to say goodbye to our beloved?
In this episode, you’ll hear how beautiful it can be to care so much. You’ll hear about the ultimate goals for Muttville and why the mayor of San Francisco has officially declared a Muttville Senior Rescue Dog day across the city. You'll hear how among the ones who need it most - the precious oldies - there are those on the fighting line making a real difference. And you'll eagerly want to be part of it. (You can - just adopt a senior pet today!)
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Animals That Saved Us with Zach Skow Mar 16, 2022

Zach Skow is the founder of Marley’s Mutts, an incredible dog rescue, and the founder of the Pawsitive Change program, which aims to create opportunities for incarcerated people and pets so that they can find their path home.

Zach joins me today to have a heartfelt conversation about recovery, rehabilitation, and the importance of having chances. We discuss how animals, especially dogs, can help us redefine our ideas of family, the value of being in service, and how the 12 Step recovery program acts as a guidebook for living your best life.

This episode is all about believing in others, no matter who they are or where they come from. From how to work in animal welfare to a discussion about relinquishing judgment, this is an important episode about choosing hope for the future, for people and for animals.
Trigger warning: there is talk about eating disorders, addiction to alcohol, and suicide in this episode.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

What Animals Teach Us About Empathy and Being with Catherine Raven Mar 09, 2022

Catherine Raven is the author of a beautiful book titled “Fox and I: An Uncommon Friendship”. She has a PhD in biology, holds degrees in zoology and botany, and is a former national park ranger. What I'm saying is she is super smart! Just listen to her talk about anthropomorphism, the six kingdoms of life, and where humans and animals fit together to know it's true.

Today, Catherine joins the show to talk about what wild animals can teach us about empathy, being, and humanity. To hear her explain reciprocity in our relationships with animals will fill your heart with inspiration. Her uncommon friendship with Fox taught her so much about how to pay close attention to the ideas of right and wrong; how to be tolerant of the space you share with nature; why getting to know another being without distractions is important; and why love isn't unconditional in her eyes, and that is actually a good thing.
Catherine is a writer. Y'all know there's nothing in this world I revere like a writer, especially an animal-loving one. So last but not least, her writerly wisdom fills this episode and she even tells us a little bit about her newest work of fiction coming out soon.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How to Instill a Love for Animals in Kids with My Favorite Guests, My Kids! Mar 02, 2022

This episode is for anybody juggling the duties of being a parent to human children and fur children at the same time, for my double moms and double dads out there! If you're soon-to be a double parent or even a pet mom or dad who has nieces, nephews, or other kids in your life, then this is for you too. Because today's episode is all about instilling and cultivating respect for animals in children.
I explain why I think developing a love for animals in our kids is one of the most important gifts we can give them and I provide some tips and pointers to help you on that journey, such as how to be flexible when you bring an animal into your home, how to stay committed and stick it out through the challenging times, and how to create a safe home environment for both pets and kids along the way. In the end, raising young ones who are aware, compassionate, and grateful will help them grow into the very people this world needs.
Then last but not least, you’ll hear from my favorite guests ever - my kids! The girls hop on to share about the animals who have changed them and also tell you about some of the animals they wish to have in our home. Yes, it's sort of controlled chaos, and yes, love can be hard sometimes. But it's always worth it, and so are you.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How Downtown Dog Rescue Provides Care for People and Their Pets with Lori Weise Feb 23, 2022

Downtown Dog Rescue started over 20 years ago by Lori Weise, an animal lover, an advocate for justice, and a woman who wanted to provide a solution to the suffering she saw all around her. People starving, people who were homeless, people trying to do do right by their pets yet lacking in resources and support. Lori didn't set out to fix the whole world at once; she just decided to do something where she could, how she could, one step at a time.

From hearing her share her story of the animal who changed her to the insightful look into her work keeping families together, this conversation with Lori highlights the importance of staying patient and waiting out the long game when it comes to helping people and their pets. By providing care for communities that need it most and by offering shelter intervention support, Downtown Dog Rescue is a movement, a paradigm shift, with no room for blame or judgment. This inspiring work is the gentle nudge we all need to take control of our own stories, which are crucial to our wellness, and to allow others to have their own stories too. Sit with me and Lori as she discusses the sad, tough, scary situations her work forces her to face, how she must accept what is, and what the future of Downtown Dog Rescue holds. As a role model, as a friend, I'm honored she's here with me, for you.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

An Inside Look Into the World of Rescuing Foxes with Nicole Navarro Feb 16, 2022

Nicole Navarro is here with us today to talk about rescuing foxes! How cool is that! As the president and founder of Pawsitive Beginnings, a nonprofit organization that saves foxes from fur farms, she shares her story about the animals that changed her and what being around foxes is truly like.

From how she secured funding to get her organization started to what respecting and bonding with foxes looks like, Nicole is honest and compassionate, realistic and dedicated to her advocacy for these curious beings. Together we discuss what a kinder world for animals really means and why fighting for that vision is a duty we feel proud of. If you’ve ever wondered about foxes or wanted to smooch one as much as I do, this episode is for you. Tune in and listen to Nicole’s incredible journey and her amazing mission.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

An Honest Conversation About the Rescue System, Adoption, and Breeding with Sophie Gamand Feb 09, 2022

I’m so honored to have none other than Sophie Gamand on the show. Sophie is an animal advocate, artist, and award-winning photographer. You might know her from her stunning, powerful Pit Bull Flower Power series or her Wet Dog series. She does her work pro bono for non-profits, rescues, and shelters to communicate the idea of dogs having agency and she does it through photography.

Sophie shares her experience about awakening to the world of rescue in Puerto Rico, her commitment to helping shelters and rescues, and how vital it is to use art for good. We discuss our shared deep connection to animals, how her journey got started, the stigma around adoption, and why certain breeds have come to reflect a person’s status. This is a very open, honest, and raw conversation about dog breeding and more. In the end, it's Sophie’s work that she hopes can help change the negative narrative Pitbulls unfairly carry and it's animals in her life who encourage her to keep going. They do that for me too, and for you - and so, this episode is friendship.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Goodbye To A Great Love, My Sweet Ophelia - with my husband Eric Feb 02, 2022

This episode of The Animal That Changed You is not only closest to my heart, but it was the hardest to record. My husband Eric sat down to interview me about my sweet Ophelia. There comes a time when every pet parent has to say goodbye. And today, Eric and I take a walk down memory lane as we honor Ophelia.

From how she came into my life, to the lessons she taught me over our 17 years together, to how she changed me, to how this whole podcast started because of her, this is an episode that I know every pet mom and pet dad can relate to. I hope that you tune in and help me pay homage to a Great Love, hear how Ophelia impacted my life most, the things I’ll miss about her, and maybe even find some comfort if you’re going through something similar or painful. I will miss her forever, but Ophelia will live on right here, and for that gift I cherish each and every one of you listening.
*Trigger warning: This episode discusses eating disorders and mental health issues.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

How Our Pets Can Teach Us to Be More Present with Non Wels Jan 26, 2022

We’re joined by Non Wels - a supreme empath, feely human, and all-around special soul. Non and I have an honest and important conversation about the importance of setting boundaries as empaths, how the love and special bond with our pets grounds us, and the unique ways that animals can help us in our journeys.

You’ll hear Non talk about his very special dog, Scooby, how he changed his life by helping him relinquish the facade he thought he had to hold onto, teaching him to be more present, and the many other ways he played a crucial role in Non’s mental health journey. Non also shares why empathy, vulnerability, and emotional curiosity are important elements in his recovery, why the temporary nature of life gives it meaning, and why empathy without boundaries is "self-immolation in disguise." This is a conversation that’s straight from the heart. Tune in to listen to the incredible animals in Non’s life and how the unique love and bond that animals offer us can help us when we need it most.

*Trigger warning: This episode discusses eating disorders and mental health issues.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Sappy, Funny, and Just Plain Nuts Stories of Our Fosters Jan 19, 2022

We’re doing things a little differently in this episode. Instead of hearing from one of our amazing guests, you’re going to hear from yours truly. Specifically, you’re in for a treat as I share some zany stories from our greatest hits fosters.

From stories of our first foster who flew all the way from Taiwan, two tiny ragamuffin terriers, Shiloh - the beagle who confirmed my deepest fears, and so many more, this episode is a heartwarming walk through memory lane all about the fosters that changed me. I share stories about John Goodman - our 55lb foster beagle and how he healed my spirit, Dorothy and the giant hole she dug through our wall, and our favorite memories with our greatest fosters. Tune in to listen to how these fosters impacted my life with their presence, even if it were only for a short while.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Navigating Grief, Guilt, and Trust as a Pet Parent with Alison Rosen Jan 12, 2022

I’m incredibly happy to be chatting with the queen of podcasting herself, Alison Rosen. Alison isn’t just a fellow animal lover and dog mom, but she’s also the host of Alison Rosen is Your New Best Friend, and the co-host of Childish. We talk about Alison’s dogs, Oliver and Wendy, in this episode.

Alison also tells us about her childhood, why she fell in love with animals, and how she developed a strong sense of empathy and sympathy for people and animals. She also gets real with us as she discusses the loss of her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Oliver, and why you should always listen to your gut when it comes to health concerns with your pet. We also discuss why guilt is part of the journey of owning and loving a pet. This is a judgment-free episode all about the animals in Alison’s life, the important and difficult lessons they taught her, and how they changed her for the better.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Beagles, Senior Dogs, Beta Fishes, and What it Means to Love an Animal with Casey Rose Wilson Jan 05, 2022

You may know Casey Rose Wilson as a hilarious actress and comedian, but she’s also an animal lover. She’s here today to talk about beagles, senior dogs, beta fish, and what it means o love an animal. From stories of our childhood pets to what it means to raise pet smart children, Casey shares the good, bad, and the ugly of interacting with and caring for our furry family members.

Casey shares the story behind her love for beagles, dealing with children who have a fear of dogs, and the darker and painful side of losing a pet. Her love for animals is contagious - so if you’re ready for a heartwarming episode all about connecting with your pet, be it a dog or a fish, pop your headphones in and listen to how the animals in Casey’s life changed her life.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the websitewhile you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Finding Our Space In A Herd Of Horses with Sarah Maslin Nir Dec 29, 2021

Sarah Maslin Nir is here today to talk to us about the powerful relationship between horses and humans. From her compulsion to seek justice, to the beautiful safety she explains that prey animals need, to her honesty about horses being her refuge, Sarah's obsession is a gift. She shares what horses mean to her and how they bring people together; she shares horse history and the lesser-known intricacies of the equestrian world only a horse crazy person would know. As a journalist and staff reporter for the New York Times and as a finalist for the 2016 Pulitzer prize for local reporting, it is in Sarah's recent book “Horse Crazy” where her talented journalistic reporting is woven with stunning personal narrative. Sarah is the daughter of a Holocaust survivor, a man who was a prominent psychiatrist specializing in trauma, so prepare for an episode that is heartfelt and deep as well as informative.
Get Horse Crazy with Sarah Maslin Nir.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Building A Trusting Relationship With Your Dog with Laura London Dec 22, 2021

Are you basically listening to two long-time friends gab about all things dog in this episode? Yes, you are. But you'll also hear personal stories, an homage to horses, and the gratitude we feel for the animals who've stuck with us through thick and thin. Laura London is a highly-qualified, certified dog trainer who is unafraid to shed light on why most behavioral issues ultimately stem from the owner, and why we need to evaluate ourselves before placing blame on our pets. But we also have an important discussion about why we shouldn’t be so quick to judge other pet parents either. During all the hubbub and chaos of the holiday season, Laura is here to help us navigate the world of training, bonding, and loving our dogs. From the big takeaway message that she wishes the world knew about socializing dogs to her pet peeves, this is a must-listen for dog people who want to build a respectful relationship with their beloveds.
Follow Laura London for the cute dog pics and the educational content.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Take That Compassion and Expand It with CARE Dec 15, 2021

This is where it's at. James and Jennifer Evans are here to talk to us about elevating BIPOC voices in animal welfare and bringing in people from all walks of life. By challenging assumptions and suspending judgments, we can better stay true to honest narratives instead of getting caught up in the stories we tell ourselves about other people. Because to help animals, we need to participate in communities. Because to help animals, we need to be inclusive and that means reckoning with our privilege. Because to help animals, we need different answers, we need to get rid of barriers to adoption, we need to incentivize pet fostering - and it starts by making space for everybody. CARE is doing some big work led by these ambitious dreamers and hearing them unpack the number of animals in shelters as a social and racial gap in this country is a discussion I am most grateful for. Listen to this episode, spend more time outside, and join the CARE movement.

Be part of the CARE movement.
Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Animals Are Cozy Wozy Home with Michaela Watkins Dec 08, 2021

Michaela Watkins is our guest today and it's a gift to hear her share about her queen cat Izzy, her dopey cat Joe, cuddly Jeff the Dog, and Wuzzabear, the pup supermodel, all who have changed her life. This episode contains stories about lovers, liars, and narcissistic assholes, but it also delves into the pure love only animals can offer and what a good hang they can be. Cat allergies are discussed, you'll probably never think about the David Letterman theme song in the same way again, and listening to Michaela will definitely make you extra grateful for your own furry garbage pile to sink into. In honor of her humor and insight, her animals, and this community, every review of The Animal That Changed You that's left in the month of December will become $10 donated to Wags & Walks!

You'll want to follow Michaela Watkins for 1000 reasons, but her videos of Jeff the Dog and Wuzzabear are among the top.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

All You Have To Do Is Love Them with Matt McConkey and Michael Grassi Dec 01, 2021

Matt McConkey and Michael Grassi are the pet adoption dream couple. In this episode, you’ll hear one of the best gotcha stories about a dignified senior dog who became the cornerstone for a love story. A beautiful soul whose head smelled like oatmeal cookies inspired communication between two people and united them as family, but she also brought them out of their heads and made them feel cool. From being thirsty for dog kisses to reframing how we think about rescuing senior pets, from seeing your future in a dog’s eyes to the hard reality of saying goodbye, these guests are like a comfy couch you just want to sink right into and listen.

Follow Matt McConkey for more laughs, more insight, more goodness.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Taking Care Of The Flock with Our Hen House Nov 24, 2021

Our Thanksgiving week episode is with the cohosts of Our Hen House, here to tell us about Calhoun, the special dog who changed Mariann, and Rudy the rescue chicken with prosthetic feet who changed Jasmin. These two incredible activists delve into the overlap between animal rights and antiracism, why we don't have to try to change our families, and the importance of boundaries, especially around the holiday table. We discuss the nature of animal law and being okay with finding your people and your purpose however they come. Last but not least, listeners are welcome to call in to ‪(415) 787-3159‬ and leave a short story about the animal that changed you!

Follow Our Hen House and be part of changing the world for animals!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Dogs As Heads Of The Family with Can I Pet Your Dog Nov 17, 2021

OMG! Can I Pet Your Dog's cohosts are with us today! Renee Colvert and Alexis B. Preston are here to discuss the threat of authenticity, horoscopes up and down, and the amazing gotcha stories of their dogs', Tugboat, Cricket and Crumb. Listen to these remarkable women share about Molly and Nikki, the childhood pups who came first, and why it can be healing to talk to our pets since passed, whether it be to ask them for forgiveness or for help finding a husband. You will definitely want to hang out with this talented and hilarious dynamic duo for an episode dream come true. There may or may not be a lighting round of questions about what our dogs have seen us do!

Follow Renee's fluffy Pit, Tugboat, and Alexis' pups Crumb & Cricket!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

We Are Experiencing This Together with Bare Hands Beran Nov 10, 2021

Michael Beran is here to have a nuanced conversation about his animal rescue service. From his days growing up in the swamps of Louisiana to his show on Animal Planet & Discovery+, Beran never uses gloves to deal with a removal even though he'll likely get bit. This is because of his reverence for animals, a commitment to letting them feel him as he feels them. Though Beran keeps us guessing the whole episode about who changed him, it's an unbelievable discovery! Plus, Michael shares his knowledge on birds of prey, raccoons, bats, snakes and more along the way.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Bringing The Walls Down with Travis Brorsen Nov 03, 2021

Travis Brorsen joins us this week to talk about all things dog. From growing up on a farm to the pain of losing a pig he loved to winning the Greatest American Dog Trainer reality TV show, Travis shares how he learned not only how to live with dogs, but also how to open up and feel because of them. It’s because of his willingness to admit the things he did wrong, how he forgave and kept trying, that Travis inspires hope. Now through his own company, Travis teaches pet parents the tools they need to enjoy life-changing relationships with their dogs.

Follow Animal Planet's Pet Expert, Dog Trainer and TV Host Travis Brorsen for an abundance of canine goodies.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Abundance We Have with Henry Mance Oct 27, 2021

Henry Mance wrote a beautiful book. And it's an important one because it's an honest account of a journalist trying to find out the truth. In this week's episode, Henry and Katya talk about journalism, our natural tendency to care about animals, creating a world his daughters can enjoy, and writing. Tune in and hear a guest who cares deeply for wild animals and wild spaces, who is an advocate for living a good life, and above all someone who is rational and balanced in sharing his heart. P.S. You won't believe the animal that changed Henry. P.P.S. Yes, you can have a crush on a book.

Follow Henry Mance and get your own copy of How To Love Animals In A Human-Shaped World.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Combine Passion With Purpose with Stand Up For Pits Foundation Oct 20, 2021

Rebecca Corry is not afraid to speak her mind and put her heart on the line. In this week's episode, she joins us to do both as she talks about her beloved Angel, a most noble, gentle soul wrapped in a Pittie body, who brought Rebecca to her purpose. Now this funny lady is the founder and president of her incredible nonprofit and a fierce advocate for the inherently good Pitbull type dogs she works tirelessly to provide spay and neuter for, to help save, and to love. Rebecca and Katya discuss broken systems, the need to get in the fight for what's right, and the importance of accepting a little inconvenience so you can experience the magic of being changed by an animal.

Follow Stand Up For Pits Foundation and learn what you can do to help Pitbulls.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Puppies Are Hard with Deanna Cheng Oct 13, 2021

It's not easy being a multi-hyphenate, unless you are Deanna Cheng who kicks ass as an actress, writer, director, and business owner. But it's her role as Dog Mom that has changed her the most, a hard-won title she never anticipated. It took a pandemic. It took overcoming her fear of dogs and making peace with a bite history. And she did it! And she will make you laugh about it, even as you feel so much that your feels will feel! For her courage to keep creating and evolving, she was rewarded with the gorgeous, silky butt, too-smart, rescue extraordinaire named Otto. Listen to this episode and find out how far it's possible to go and grow because of the love of animal.

Follow the glory that is Deanna the Montage Queen!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

It Is All About Mileage with Henry and Finn Oct 06, 2021

If you want to hear how a Puerto Rican street dog got to live his best life, listen to this week's episode with the adventurous spirit that is Henry Friedman. We talk about how every foster pet teaches us something, about the power of soul dogs, and about how traveling with his best boy, Finn, changed his experience of van dwelling. Henry recounts for us how he followed his curiosity to live without walls, and then as if the Universe wanted to give him a gift for it, here came Finn to help him access his emotions, his dreams, his gratitude, and his purpose. Henry and Finn became a social media sensation overnight, but for our guest it's really about coexisting with Finn. Their relationship helps him showcase the best parts of himself, makes people receive him without swords, and inspires him to give back. What a duo they are - their freedom is high, their work is meaningful, and at the end of the day Henry knows it's all because he said yes to a rescue dog.

You gotta follow Henry and Finn on Instagram - promise you won't regret being a part of their journey!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Give Me The Sickest Kitten You Got with Laura Lux Sep 29, 2021

You may never think of cat ladies in the same way again after this week's episode. Our guest, Laura Lux, is an influencer, an entrepreneur, and a badass kitty mama. As we talk about the joys of fostering and the awe we feel for those who do TNR, Laura shares how taking in kittens gives her meaning and how she found the gift out of a crappy situation because it led to adopting her precious, blind Evie. This beautiful woman (inside and out) specializes in fostering felines with eye issues, nurses them back to health on the regular, and doesn't cry anymore when they go to their forever home. To follow her is to be privy to some very cute cat pics and to believe that life is fun, life can be a party. And Laura is the music, but the kitties are the stars.

Follow Laura Lux and dig into those cat pictures!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Focus On The Donut And Not The Hole with Gavin Polone Sep 22, 2021

Few people walk the walk like today's guest and do it with such authenticity, regardless of who likes it or not. Gavin Polone is a film and TV producer and director, a magazine writer, and a talent manager, but above of all he is a voice for animals. In this episode, he opens up about Chiquita, the neighborhood cat who changed him when he was just a boy being bullied, and all the animals who have shaped his life since. We discuss the patience cats demand to earn their trust, if it's harder to love humans or believe they suck, and a deep desire to befriend a raven. His dedication is constant, as is his commitment to veganism, and his outlook is truly inspiring. One thing is for certain: there is nobody like Gavin Polone. And the animal world is better for it.

Follow Gavin on Twitter to read his thought-provoking articles.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

You Jump In It With Them with A Purposeful Rescue Sep 15, 2021

Magical Unicorns do exist, thanks to A Purposeful Rescue. This nonprofit, committed to saving dogs from high-kill shelters in Los Angeles, takes in the most overlooked pets like seniors and intense medical cases. In this episode, CEO and founder Hillary Rosen talks to us about the first time she visited an animal shelter, the bruja powers that give her the ability to see the best in dogs, and what pack mentality really feels like. With over 90K followers on Instagram, APR shares the journey from shelter dog to "magical unicorn" in a meaningful, transparent way that draws people in and makes them want to stick around. What a gift they are to animal rescue.

Stay connected to A Purposeful Rescue and follow their heartwarming stories!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

You Have To Push Way Hard with Emancipet Sep 08, 2021

Check out today's episode with Amy Mills, CEO of Emancipet, a non-profit organization building a national affordable veterinary care system that serves the underserved. Their low-cost clinics help keep over 200,000 pets a year healthy, happy, and safe with their families! Amy talks to us about reframing challenges when you're working for social change, how asking for money is giving an opportunity, and how her innate love for all creatures led to a career focused on protecting the bond between humans and animals. This nonprofit maven will inspire you think, to recommit to what matters most to you, and to choose hope in the face of setbacks.

Stay connected to Amy Mills and click here to support Emancipet!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

I Did Not Expect He Would Be Part Of My Healing with June Diane Raphael Sep 01, 2021

This week June Diane Raphael shares about her childhood fear of dogs, a pet rabbit named Scooter, her beautiful journey toward adopting Meatball, and the wonderful grandpa-looking-through-coupons energy this dog has brought into her life. Hearing her authentically talk about parenting, family, feeling overwhelmed, The Jane Club and more, will not only make you laugh your buns off, but it will also give you the warm fuzzies your heart craves. And yes, there is nose wiping with socks instead of tissues because as moms, we do what we have to do.

Listen to more goodness from June Diane Raphael on The Deep Dive!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

Your Kid Might Not Want A Pet, They May Need A Pet with Adopt-a-Pet.com Aug 25, 2021

This episode is with the incomparable Abbie Moore, COO and CPO of Adopt-a-Pet.com, which is like the best dating website ever because it's for finding your next rescue pet! Abbie talks to us about being bullied as a kid, working in Hollywood, impostor syndrome, and Pierre, the bird who changed her life. To listen to Abbie is to consider giving animals, other people, and ourselves second chances, even third chances, and to realize that an animal can be the hero of your story.

Stay connected to Abbie Moore and click here to adopt your next pet!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

You Fall In Love Hard And Fast with Jordan and Rory Scovel Aug 18, 2021

Hang out with Jordan and Rory Scovel on episode two of The Animal That Changed You! This wonderful, witty couple talks about the animals who've made an impact in their lives, helped them learn about themselves, and showed them what they're made of. As we discuss mistakes, marriage, reincarnation and canine communication, these guests bring an incredible amount of honesty, humor, and heart to the show. Also, their gotcha story is pretty spectacular and their sweet rescue dog just may have sent a letter to share his gratitude.

Stay in the know on all things Rory Scovel and Jordan Scovel!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

We Are Not Rug People, We Are Dog People with Randy and Jason Sklar Aug 11, 2021

Join us for our first episode of The Animal That Changed You with none other than the extraordinarily funny Sklar Brothers as guests! Randy and Jason talk about the animals that have made a difference in their lives, but of course these comedy twins will make you laugh your a$$ off while you listen. They also mock libraries, recount dog-sitting drama, and make you willing to forget about the pee-stain on your rug. Oh, but before that, get ready to meet Ophelia, the reason I started this podcast, the animal who changed me and opened my heart to every animal who has changed me since.

Get more funnies from The Sklar Brothers here!

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

The Animal That Changed You TRAILER! Aug 04, 2021

Are you an animal lover? Do your friends tease you for being obsessed with your dog? Do you worry about stray cats when it rains? Do you feel for the world? Are you unable to watch what happens to a horse during a war scene in a movie, but have no problem watching what befalls the dude on the horse? Welcome to The Animal That Changed You, a weekly podcast that explores the love of animals, what it offers, and how it can help heal us. Lean into your animal love and subscribe to this non-aggro, heartfelt, quirky show.

Join The Animal That Changed You community on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook -- we're waiting to welcome you! Feel free to check out the website while you're at it.
Please leave a rating or review of the show. Your support matters so much!
Feel free to call ‪(415) 787-3159 to leave a short story about the animal who changed you - we might play yours on our next episode!
Woof, meow, oink, moo, cheep (of course you know that means thanks for listening.)

Produced by Adode Media; a full-service podcast production agency.

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