The Community Cats Podcast
By: The Community Cats Podcast
Language: en
Categories: Kids, Family, Pets, Animals, Business, Non-profit
Our mission is to provide education, information and dialogue that will create a supportive environment empowering people to help cats in their community. *For transcripts of most shows, visit https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/podcast/.
Episodes
Justice for Animals and the Legal Fight to End Cruelty, Featuring Joyce Glass, Attorney at Joyce M. Glass, P.C.
Jan 06, 2026"One person can definitely make a difference. Don't be afraid to be the first voice—sometimes the biggest cases start with one person speaking up."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Underfoot Podcast.
In this powerful and enlightening episode, Stacey LeBaron sits down with attorney Joyce Glass, a passionate and pioneering voice in animal welfare law. From her start as a bankruptcy attorney to becoming a tireless advocate for animals, Joyce shares the deeply personal journey that led her to found a pro bono legal practice focused on protecting animals from cruelty and neglect. He...
Duration: 00:30:12Leadership, Legacy & A New Chapter for Community Cats, Featuring Stacy LeBaron, Head Cat for Community Cats Central
Dec 30, 2025"Helping that one cat is incredibly valuable... but it also represents a new behavior, a new calling, as to how we are addressing cats in our community."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Underfoot Podcast.
As 2025 draws to a close, host Stacy LeBaron takes the mic solo to share heartfelt reflections, bold vision, and a rallying cry for cat advocates everywhere. In this special year-end episode, Stacy unveils Community Cats Central, a transformative evolution of the Community Cats Podcast, designed to deepen education, networking, and support for cat lovers turning their passion into action.<...
Duration: 00:33:40From Greece to Global: Transforming TNR With Passion and Purpose, Featuring Adelle Louise and Alex Ricard, Founders of the Saaving the Streets Podcast, Travel Animal Rescue, and Saaving Lives
Dec 23, 2025"Taking that first step is going to change your life—but it's also going to change the lives of so many animals." – Alex Ricard
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Underfoot Podcast.
In this globally-minded episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron chats with Adelle Louise and Alex Ricard—two trailblazing young leaders reshaping the future of TNR. As founders of the Saaving the Streets podcast and grassroots nonprofits spanning Europe, Asia, and the Americas, Adelle and Alex have turned compassion into action, collectively sterilizing over 3,000 cats while mentoring others along the way.<...
Duration: 00:30:50Targeted TNR: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck, Part 2, Featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director for Neighborhood Cats
Dec 16, 2025"Knowing where the cats are is only half the battle—knowing how to reach the people who care for them is what makes targeting truly work."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In Part 2 of this dynamic webinar, Brian Kortis of Neighborhood Cats returns to guide us through the nuts and bolts of implementing a targeted TNR program. If Part 1 was the "why," this episode is the "how." Learn how to identify where to focus your resources using data such as shelter intake, complaint calls, and community insights. Brian explains how to structure your ou...
Duration: 00:35:08Targeted TNR: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck, Part 1 featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director for Neighborhood Cats
Dec 09, 2025"You don't need to fix all the cats to make a difference—you just need to fix the right ones, in the right places, at the right time."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In Part 1 of this two-part webinar, Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director for Neighborhood Cats, breaks down the power of targeted TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) and why it's essential for managing community cat populations effectively. Hosted in partnership with the Community Cats Podcast, this episode dives deep into the theory behind concentrating resources in high-need areas and why traditional, scattered approaches often fall sh...
Duration: 00:51:32Beyond the Bottle: A Smarter Way to Save Kittens featuring Jackie Noble, Executive Director of the Orphan Kitten Club
Dec 02, 2025"We are dedicated to making sure the kittens that we take in are the last kittens born in that colony."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
What do neonate kittens, a chance wedding conversation, and a global mission to stop kitten overpopulation have in common? Jackie Noble.
In this lively episode, Stacy LeBaron welcomes Jackie Noble, Executive Director of the Orphan Kitten Club, to dish on all things kitten rescue, and the bold vision to end the cycle once and for all. With a career that began thanks to a wedding guest...
Duration: 00:33:11Return to Field with Neighborhood Cats – Part 2, featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director of Neighborhood Cats
Nov 25, 2025"The goal is simple. Do what's best for this individual cat—not what's easiest for us."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In Part 2 of the Return to Field training, Bryan Kortis walks us through the practical side of RTF implementation—how to assess which cats qualify, how to safely house and return them, and what to do when friendly cats enter the system. With an emphasis on individualized outcomes, this session covers the real-world nuance of returning cats to their original locations while balancing public concerns, shelter capacity, and cat welfare. You'll hear how...
Duration: 00:40:59Return to Field with Neighborhood Cats, Part 1, Featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats
Nov 18, 2025"Euthanasia is a dead-end policy. We've tried it for decades and the cats are still here."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In Part 1 of this informative workshop replay, Bryan Kortis and Susan Richmond of Neighborhood Cats dive into the effective approach of Return to Field (RTF), reshaping how shelters manage community cats. As a key evolution of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR), RTF empowers shelters to sterilize, vaccinate, and return healthy, unowned cats to their territories rather than euthanizing them. Bryan traces the roots of the movement back to Jacksonville, Florida, where an experimental collaboration between...
Duration: 00:33:17Building a United Voice for Michigan's Animals, Featuring Courtney Protz-Sanders, Founder of Paws for Life Rescue and Board Member of the Michigan Pet Alliance
Nov 11, 2025"One of the worst things is to have a passion to do something, but no idea how or where to start. That's where we come in—we're a resource. You're not floating out there alone."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Courtney Protz-Sanders, founder of Paws for Life Rescue and board member of the Michigan Pet Alliance, shares her journey from individual rescuer to statewide advocate for animal welfare. In this episode, Courtney and host Stacy LeBaron dive into how collaboration, legislative engagement, and education can transform communities and protect animals more effectively.
...
Duration: 00:26:40Drop Traps, Stubborn Cats & DIY Hacks: Level Up Your TNR Game Featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats
Nov 04, 2025"If they won't go hungry, feed them into the trap. We don't just wait—we adapt."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In Part 2 of our Drop Trap Workshop, we move beyond the basics into the advanced strategies and inventive solutions that make drop trapping even more powerful. Brian Cordes returns to unpack real-world tactics for high-stakes trapping scenarios—from uneven terrain and stubborn caretakers to high-volume colony projects and post-disaster recovery.
This episode showcases smart hacks like drop trap pads for unstable ground, audio lures using kitten cries, how to use kitt...
Duration: 00:37:48Beyond the Box Trap: A Better Way to Catch Elusive Felines Featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats
Oct 28, 2025"It's better to miss than to mistime the drop—because once they learn it's a trap, they won't come back."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this first installment of our Drop Trap Workshop, we're diving deep into the fundamentals of drop trapping—a powerful and underutilized tool in the TNR world. Join Community Cats Podcast Tech Tabby Kristen Petrie and expert guest Bryan Kortis, National Program Director of Neighborhood Cats, as he walks you through the mechanics, mindset, and must-have equipment for mastering the drop trap. With insight from co-founder and seasoned trap...
Duration: 00:37:09Building Political Power for NYC Community Cats Featuring Allie Taylor (Allie Feldman Taylor), Founder & President, Voters for Animal Rights (VFAR)
Oct 21, 2025"Imagine if you told New Yorkers, 'Well, you want someone to take your trash away from your block? Oh, you're gonna have to find a volunteer to do that.' That's exactly what's happening here. But with animal care."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Stacy LeBaron talks with Allie Taylor, founder and president of Voters for Animal Rights (VFAR), an organization she started in 2016 to bring political voice for animals throughout New York State. Allie is a volunteer TNR rescuer in Brooklyn who has successfully passed numerous landmark laws including banning foie gras, banning wild...
Duration: 00:23:22Managing Greece's Largest Cat Care Project on an Island Paradise Featuring Isabel Borst, Communications, Engagement & Education Lead at Animal Action Greece – Paros & Antiparos Community Cat Care Project
Oct 14, 2025"Our goal here is really to work from the bottom up and help change the mentality, help the groups to negotiate better fundings with the municipality. We are only here for a limited time, right? So we wanna make sure that we are building a lasting, sustainable system."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and The Community Cat Clinic.
Stacy LeBaron talks with Isabel (Isa) Borst, Communications, Engagement and Education Lead for Animal Action Greece's groundbreaking community cat care project on the Cycladic islands of Paros and Antiparos. Originally from Brazil and having lived in Germany...
Duration: 00:31:00Achieving 40% Reduction in Cat Intake Through Targeted TNR in Sunnyvale Featuring Vanessa Forney, Founder & President of Bay Area Cats
Oct 07, 2025"I think just the nature of having a shelter that's supportive and animal control has really expedited this as a success…And I think that made a big difference in the city."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Stacy LeBaron talks with Vanessa Forney, founder and president of Bay Area Cats, an organization in Sunnyvale, California focused on spay neuter for pets and trap neuter return. Since stumbling upon a kitten in her neighborhood in 2020, Vanessa has personally trapped over 2,500 cats and kittens, built an efficient volunteer trapping team, and formed a 501(c)(3) that has helped sp...
Duration: 00:33:43Revolutionizing Animal Fundraising With Furlanthropy Featuring Adam Spencer, Founder of Furlanthropy
Sep 30, 2025"We are a unique charity, very innovative in this space. What you're really doing is you're inviting people to touch your mission. The number one reason anyone gives to any charity or any cause is to fulfill something within themselves, within their own heart."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this financial innovation episode, host Stacy LeBaron speaks with Adam Spencer, founder of Furlanthropy, the first charity-owned and operated crowdfunding platform exclusively for animal-related causes. Adam's journey began with his beloved rescue cat Kobe, who lived over 20 years and provided profound emotional support during difficult...
Duration: 00:23:46Building Bridges: International Lessons for Community Cat Programs, Featuring Maia Rumpho, Founder of Pet Project Rescue
Sep 23, 2025"What we do in Mexico is my dream for Minnesota. We provide free spay neuter to both owned and street animals every single week."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and The Community Cat Clinic.
In this international perspective episode, host Stacy LeBaron speaks with Maia Rumpho, founder of Pet Project Rescue, who turned a chance encounter with a street dog in Mexico into a binational animal welfare organization. Maia's journey began in 2007 during an engagement trip to Mexico, where rescuing a street dog sparked her understanding of the resource disparities between communities. What started as...
Duration: 00:26:36Revolutionizing Kitten Care: The Kitten College Model, Featuring Marnie Russ, Founder, National Kitten College
Sep 16, 2025"A cat that is well socialized is highly adoptable. A cat that is not well socialized sits in the shelter. It's an important part of your fostering responsibility to get them ready to live outside. Before it was just saving their lives. But now we know better."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and The Community Cat Clinic.
In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes back Marnie Russ, founder of National Kitten College, for an update on her innovative approach to neonatal kitten care. Since her first appearance on the podcast in 2016-2017, Marnei has grown...
Duration: 00:27:22From Founder to Ambassador: Building Sustainable Community Cat Programs Featuring Joy Smith, Founder and Ambassador, FieldHaven Feline Center
Sep 09, 2025"We want to turn cat haters into cat toleraters, and that has worked so well. Even the people who say 'I hate cats.' Okay, that's fine if you hate cats. But don't wish them dead. We're gonna work to keep them out of your yard."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and 6 Degrees of Cats.
In this inspiring episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Joy Smith, founder of FieldHaven Feline Center in Lincoln, California, who shares her remarkable journey from accidentally rescuing a few cats on her street to building a $1.5 million organization that has transformed...
Duration: 00:38:41Building Professional Community Cat Programs: From Strategy to Implementation, Featuring Elizabeth Finch, Educator, Author, and Community Cat Program Consultant
Sep 02, 2025"A community cat program does not just help cats. You think you're going in there to help cats and you turn out really having more impact on the people in that community."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and 6 Degrees of Cats.
In this insightful episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes back Elizabeth Finch, an impact-driven leader who has been transforming community cat programming since 2015. Elizabeth's journey from launching a robust community cat program serving over 4,000 cats annually in metro Atlanta to becoming an educator and consultant offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to create systematic change...
Duration: 00:31:26Scaling Spay/Neuter: How One Foundation Is Disrupting Access to Care, Featuring Cathy Bissell, Founder of the Bissell Pet Foundation
Aug 26, 2025"If you love cats, you should be concerned about trying to help bring those numbers down so animals don't suffer because this is why we do this. We don't want animals suffering, having unwanted litters of cats and having to have them suffer."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and 6 Degrees of Cats.
In this powerful episode, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Cathy Bissell, founder of Bissell Pet Foundation, who has revolutionized animal welfare through innovative programs reaching over 6,000 shelters across 49 states. From her unexpected entry into animal welfare during Hurricane Katrina to creating the...
Duration: 00:40:55Municipal Shelter Innovation: No-Kill Success in Small-Town Mississippi, Featuring Glen Andrews, Director, Horn Lake Animal Shelter
Aug 19, 2025"I envision Horn Lake being the hub of North Mississippi when it comes to animal welfare. I want my animal shelter to be the place that people model their strategies after."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Rescue Cleaners and Disinfectants.
In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Glen Andrews, Director of the Horn Lake Animal Shelter in North Mississippi. With over two decades in animal welfare and experience in virtually every shelter role imaginable—from event coordinator to veterinary assistant to director—Glen brings a unique "Renaissance rescuer" perspective to municipal anim...
Duration: 00:30:25Healing at Home: How PAD Home Pet Services Is Transforming Feline Healthcare, Featuring Dr. Nicole Liebman, DVM, and Ron Coughlin, Co-Founders of PAD Home Pet Services
Aug 12, 2025"You have to earn a cat's love and respect—and when you do, you have it forever." – Dr. Nicole Liebman
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Rescue Cleaners and Disinfectants.
In this inspiring episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Dr. Nicole Liebman and Ron Coughlin, the passionate duo behind PAD Home Pet Services—a pioneering in-home pet care company dedicated to making veterinary support more accessible and compassionate, especially for cats.
Dr. Liebman, a lifelong animal lover and veterinary oncologist, shares her deep respect for feline behavi...
Duration: 00:33:54Saving Scotland's Wildcats: A Conservation Comeback, Featuring Lara Semple, Field Team Member at Saving Wildcats
Aug 05, 2025"Whether it's a pet cat, a feral cat, or a wildcat—they all deserve care and respect. TNVR isn't just about controlling populations; it's about preserving a legacy."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Rescue Cleaners and Disinfectants.
In this compelling episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron speaks with Lara Semple, field team member of the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland's "Saving Wildcats" project. Based at the Highland Wildlife Park, this initiative is leading the charge in restoring the critically endangered European wildcat to the Scottish Highlands.
Lara shares he...
Duration: 00:27:29Fiscal Sponsorship for Feline Good: The Chappy & Friends Way, Featuring Robert Bills, Founder of Chappy & Friends
Jul 29, 2025"I've always just had a goal of helping as many animals as possible."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Rescue Cleaners and Disinfectants.
For passionate individuals and grassroots organizations working tirelessly in the world of animal welfare, financial logistics and nonprofit administration can feel like insurmountable hurdles. In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Robert Bills, founder of Chappy & Friends, a unique fiscal sponsor dedicated exclusively to animal welfare initiatives.
Robert's journey from finance and entertainment to animal advocacy was inspired by Chappy, a resilient...
Duration: 00:30:23Grassroots & Grit: Building TNR Success in Small-Town Indiana, Featuring KerryAnn May, Founder of Animal Outreach of Shelby County
Jul 22, 2025"I'm giving people the really good traps now. The ones that make their lives easier—because the cats shouldn't be the ones who suffer when we don't have our act together."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Rescue Cleaners and Disinfectants.
In this episode, Stacy sits down with KerryAnn May, founder of Animal Outreach of Shelby County, to talk about what it really takes to build a successful TNR program from the ground up. KerryAnn shares how a random encounter with a feral kitten set her on a decades-long path in cat re...
Duration: 00:35:24Is Return-to-Field the Future? Insights from Expo, Featuring Karen Little of Alley Cat Advocates and Bryan Kortis of Neighborhood Cats
Jul 15, 2025"They're not homeless. They know exactly where their home is, and they've chosen to be there. We're literally returning them home—vaccinated and spayed—so it's a win for the cat, the shelter, and the neighborhood." - Karen Little
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Rescue Cleaners and Disinfectants.
In this special on-location episode of the Community Cats Podcast, Stacy LeBaron brings you to the bustling Humane World for Animals Expo in Las Vegas for a candid, practical conversation on the future of Return-to-Field (RTF) and community cats. Joined by Karen Little of Alley Cat...
Duration: 00:31:04Let Meowt! How Rikers Island Is Saving Its Cats, Featuring Gloria Murli of Rikers Island Cat Rescue and Mike Phillips of Urban Cat League
Jul 08, 2025"My biggest challenge is making sure the welfare of these cats is taken care of. I'll never desert these cats. Never." - Gloria Murli
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Rescue Cleaners and Disinfectants.
What happens when a prison island becomes a refuge for hundreds of community cats? In this powerful episode, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Gloria Murli, retired Rikers Island captain, and Mike Phillips of Urban Cat League to explore the decades-long, compassionate mission to care for and manage the cat colonies of Rikers Island.
Gloria shares how a...
Duration: 00:32:27Trapper Tips and Tricks, Part 2, Featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director for Neighborhood Cats
Jul 01, 2025"Every single cat was easily trained to go into a drop trap with a roof on it. It's just about giving them time."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Community Cat Clinic.
Picking up where we left off in Part 1, Bryan Kortis dives into the advanced techniques that helped his team trap the final 20% of cats in Maui's wildfire burn zone—arguably the most elusive cats of all. From drop traps outfitted with remote controls to fully automated trap systems triggered by feline movement, Bryan shares the groundbreaking tools and strategies that em...
Duration: 00:27:10Trapper Tips and Tricks, Part 1, featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director for Neighborhood Cats
Jun 24, 2025"Sometimes the best tip is just not skipping the basics."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Community Cat Clinic.
In the first half of this special two-part webinar replay, Bryan Kortis of Neighborhood Cats walks us through the foundational and intermediate techniques that can make or break a successful Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) effort. Drawing from decades of field experience, Bryan shares tried-and-true strategies for preparing a trapping site, creating effective feeding patterns, and managing large colony trappings with confidence.
Listeners will come away with an understanding of the practical tools—like gr...
Duration: 00:32:48The Quiet Power of Listening To Cats and the People Who Love Them, Featuring Stephen Quandt, Founder of Feline Behavior Associates
Jun 17, 2025"Outdoor cats don't have behavior problems—they just have behavior. It's when we bring them inside that we need to understand how to meet their needs."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this enlightening and heartwarming conversation, feline behaviorist Stephen Quandt joins Stacy LeBaron to explore the intersection of empathy, education, and enrichment in the feline world. With over 20 years of experience, including high-stakes rescue missions like the Joplin tornado and a groundbreaking animal welfare initiative in Chernobyl, Stephen shares how understanding both human and feline behavior can create lasting impact.
He...
Duration: 00:40:32Rural and Underfunded but Still Making It Work: How to Lead Local Change featuring Brandi Winkleman, President and Executive Director of A HOPE.
Jun 10, 2025"Everybody has a role, and if we open up the conversation just a little more, we can help change the numbers—and the lives of these animals."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this powerful and emotionally resonant episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Brandi Winkleman, President and Executive Director of A HOPE Inc., an animal welfare organization based in Milton, Florida. Brandi shares the raw, eye-opening experiences that catapulted her from volunteer to changemaker, including heart-wrenching scenes from her local shelter that inspired her to take action. Through grassroots advocacy, community education, and da...
Duration: 00:34:09Better Together: TNVR and Public Health Featuring Dr. Bob Weedon, DVM, HQHVSN Veterinary Surgeon
Jun 03, 2025"Vaccinating community cats creates a barrier to disease between wildlife, domestic animals, and people."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this special webinar replay edition of the Community Cats Podcast, Brianna Lovell Myers of United Spay Alliance is joined by Dr. Bob Weedon, a leading expert in high-volume, high-quality spay/neuter and public health. Together, they delve into the synergistic relationship between trap-neuter-vaccinate-return (TNVR) and public health initiatives.
Dr. Weedon shares compelling data illustrating how TNVR not only reduces shelter intake and euthanasia rates but also fortifies community immunity against rabies...
Duration: 00:39:38Building a TNR Movement, Part 2: The Tactics That Make TNR Stick, featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats
May 27, 2025"You're not trying to make the situation perfect. You're just trying to improve it."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Part 2 of "From the Backyard to the Front Page: Building a TNR Movement" dives into the operational tactics that sustain and grow a Trap-Neuter-Return program. In this recorded webinar, Bryan Kortis shifts from early movement-building to the nuts and bolts of long-term implementation, covering everything from trap banks and caretaker support systems to negotiating municipal cooperation and adapting strategies to fit different community types.
Listeners will gain practical insights into building a...
Duration: 00:49:22Building a TNR Movement Part 1: The Roots of a TNR Revolution featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats
May 20, 2025"Success attracts donors and grantors, and just provides that foundation for expanding into the wider community."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In Part 1 of this recorded webinar, "From the Backyard to the Front Page: Building a TNR Movement," Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director for Neighborhood Cats, presents a compelling behind-the-scenes look at how one of the nation's most impactful TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) efforts got started. Originally presented live, this session offers listeners a chance to hear how a single encounter with kittens in a Manhattan lot sparked a grassroots movement that helped reshape New...
Duration: 00:49:00In Hot Pursuit: Community Cat Care in Miami, featuring Dr. Mat Toscano, Executive Director and Chief of Surgery at Street Cat Clinic, and Tia Williams, Director of Cat Solutions 305
May 13, 2025"Stop treating cats like dogs—when we see them for who they really are, the right solutions start to emerge."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this dynamic episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron is joined by two passionate advocates making waves in Miami's cat welfare scene: Tia Williams, Director of Cat Solutions 305, and Dr. Matt Tano, Executive Director and Chief of Surgery at Street Cat Clinic. Together, they're addressing South Florida's year-round kitten crisis and pushing the boundaries of collaboration in feline-focused care.
Miami-Dade County faces a un...
Duration: 00:35:54Build Better, Fund Smarter Featuring Tim Crum, Fundraising and Operations Consultant
May 06, 2025"Our industry is full of people with big hearts — but running a shelter takes more than heart. It takes structure, strategy, and systems."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Whether you're running a grassroots cat rescue or leading a multi-million-dollar shelter, the question remains the same: how do we keep the doors open and services running? Fundraising expert and shelter operations consultant Tim Crum joins the podcast to tackle this question head-on.
With over $400 million raised and 300+ organizations advised, Tim brings an unmatched depth of insight into what makes animal welfare groups th...
Duration: 00:29:34Fixing Cats, Feeding Communities: How One Woman Sparked a Movement, Featuring Wednesday Hugus, Founder of Wednesday's Community Cats and Kittens
Apr 29, 2025"If you can't fix 'em, don't feed 'em. You may think you're being kind, but make sure you do the responsible thing and spay and neuter."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
What started as a COVID-era effort to help feed pets in need has transformed into a full-fledged nonprofit tackling the staggering population of community cats in Orlando, Florida. In this powerful conversation, Wednesday Hugus shares how her organization evolved from a pet food pantry into a multifaceted rescue operation focused on TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), medical advocacy, and grassroots community support.
Wednesday, founder of...
Duration: 00:28:55Innovating TNR Support with the Trapper Aid Initiative Featuring Alexa Kyler, Software Developer & Cat Advocate.
Apr 22, 2025"We all want to help, but without the right tools and resources, TNR can feel impossible. That's why we need technology to bridge the gaps."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Trapping and caring for community cats comes with numerous logistical challenges—finding vet appointments, securing transportation, and funding medical care. Alexa Kyler, software developer and TNR advocate, is tackling these obstacles with the Trapper Aid Initiative, an app designed to connect trappers with critical resources. In this episode, Alexa shares how her own experience with TNR inspired this innovative solution, the hurdles of bu...
Duration: 00:29:21Tackling Global Animal Welfare Challenges Featuring John Peaveler of Humane Innovations, LLC
Apr 15, 2025"If you're struggling to catch the last cat in your colony, you just haven't figured out the right approach yet. Every cat is catchable with the right technique."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
From building Kuwait's first progressive animal shelter to developing global disaster response programs, John Peaveler has seen it all. In this episode, John shares his journey from military veteran to animal welfare expert, discussing the challenges of handling feral dogs and cats, the necessity of effective population management, and the importance of humane animal capture techniques. Whether you're struggling with "...
Duration: 00:33:20Changing Lives for Cats Around the World Featuring Karen Menczer, Founder of Animal Kind International
Apr 08, 2025"You have to feel good about what you can do, even if you can't help them all. Every small effort makes a difference."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Karen Menczer, founder of Animal Kind International, an organization that supports animal welfare groups in under-resourced communities worldwide. Karen shares her journey from passionate dog lover to global cat advocate and details the challenges and triumphs of supporting local animal welfare organizations across 14 countries. From TNVR programs to veterinary care initiatives, she highlights the vital work being done...
Duration: 00:33:02Turning the Tide for TNR: Sioux Falls' Game-Changing Ordinance, Featuring Mat Tougas, Founder and President of Sioux Empire TNR
Apr 01, 2025"We want to be the example that proves you should never give up. No matter where you are, if you keep pushing, you can make change happen."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Mat Tougas of the Sioux Empire TNR Coalition back for an exciting update on the fight for trap-neuter-return (TNR) in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Since his last appearance on the podcast, Mat and his coalition have made major strides—convincing city officials to support an ordinance that will formally allow and protect TNR efforts wi...
Duration: 00:25:49Managing Cat Populations: A Global Perspective, Featuring Harry Eckman, Global Advisor for Cat Population Management at International Cat Care
Mar 25, 2025"Nothing shows the benefits of TNR better than actually doing it. Once communities see the impact, they come on board, and that's when real change happens."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Harry Eckman, Global Advisor for Cat Population Management at International Cat Care, joins host Stacy LeBaron for an insightful discussion on the challenges and opportunities in managing unowned cat populations worldwide. With over 25 years in animal welfare, Harry has worked on everything from stray population management to ending the dog and cat meat trades. In this episode, he shares his journey into...
Duration: 00:31:38Transforming Animal Welfare Messaging, Featuring Hanna Lentz, the Executive Director of SPARC (Supporting People and Animal Relationships for Change)
Mar 18, 2025"We know how much the messages and stories we hear impact what we believe to be true. If we change our messaging, we can create real change for animals and communities."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
How can storytelling and messaging shape the future of animal welfare? In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Hanna Lentz, executive director of SPARC (Supporting People and Animal Relationships for Change). With two decades in animal welfare, Hanna shares how SPARC is reshaping narratives to improve collaboration, reduce divisiveness, and...
Duration: 00:32:21Fixing Feline Futures: Featuring Robin Post, RVT, of Animal Fix Clinic
Mar 11, 2025"We have to stop the endless cycle. Everyone loves kittens, but the goal should be to make sure they were never born into suffering in the first place."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this episode of The Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Robin Post, an experienced Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) and the 2023 recipient of the Linda Markland Outstanding RVT of the Year Award. With a career spanning shelter medicine, spay/neuter clinics, and fieldwork in underserved communities, Robin shares her deep insights into feline welfare, TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), and the importance of accessible...
Duration: 00:44:45Training the Next Generation of Veterinarians in Community Cat Care, Featuring Dr. Nellie Goetz, Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine
Mar 04, 2025"Cats are an incredible way to help new graduates with their surgical training. You never know what you're going to find, and that hands-on experience is invaluable."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and The Community Cat Clinic.
How can we ensure the next generation of veterinarians is equipped to handle the unique challenges of community cats? In this episode, Stacy LeBaron welcomes Dr. Nellie Goetz, Associate Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, to discuss her innovative approach to veterinary education and the vital role of high-quality, high-volume...
Duration: 00:26:17Tag! You're Home! Simplifying Successful Reunification, Featuring Nina Stively, Director of Loudon County Animal Services, and Dr. Amy Dalrymple, DVM
Feb 25, 2025"Over 80% of the tagged cats didn't need to come into the shelter at all. This simple tool is keeping cats in their communities where they belong." – Dr. Amy Dalrymple
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and The Community Cat Clinic.
What if a simple collar could help keep community cats out of shelters and reunite them with their families? In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron chats with Nina Stively, Director of Loudoun County Animal Services, and Dr. Amy Dalrymple, veterinarian and shelter medicine specialist, about the Tag! You're Home! program—a groundbreaking approach to iden...
Duration: 00:23:57Fixing the Future: The Movement to Increase Spay/Neuter Access, Featuring Brianna Lovell Myers, Administrative Director of United Spay Alliance
Feb 18, 2025"Cats have finally come into their own. For so many years, cats were second-class citizens in veterinary research, but now we're finding treatments and diagnostics specific to them."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and The Community Cat Clinic.
For our 600th episode, we're looking ahead to the future of feline welfare with Brianna Lovell Myers, Administrative Director of United Spay Alliance. Spay/neuter is the most effective way to reduce cat overpopulation, yet many communities still struggle with access to affordable, timely services.
In this milestone conversation, Bri shares how United...
Duration: 00:42:48The Science Behind FIP: Every Cat Health Foundation's Mission to Save Lives featuring Dr. Maggie Placer, DVM, Veterinary Science Program Manager at Every Cat Health Foundation, and Vicki Fisher, Immediate Past President
Feb 11, 2025"Cats have finally come into their own. For so many years, cats were second-class citizens in veterinary research, but now we're finding treatments and diagnostics specific to them."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this insightful episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacey LeBaron sits down with Dr. Maggie Placer and Vickie Fisher from the Every Cat Health Foundation to explore groundbreaking research aimed at improving feline health. Dr. Placer, a dedicated veterinarian specializing in small animal and feline care, and Vickie Fisher, the foundation's immediate past president, share their expertise on...
Duration: 00:33:44Creating Community Connections with TNR Advocacy and Cat-Friendly Business Models, featuring Jenna Carr from Cool Cat Collective and Renae Woith from Tipped Ears.
Feb 04, 2025"Fixing a colony is more than just spaying and neutering; it's about creating healthier, happier lives for cats and fostering trust within the community."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and Arm & Hammer Feline Generous.
In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron chats with Jenna Carr of Cool Cat Collective and Renae Woith of Tipped Ears about innovative approaches to helping community cats. Jenna shares how Cool Cat Collective, a unique cat-themed boutique and art gallery in Long Beach, California, partners with Tipped Ears to create a safe, enriching space...
Duration: 00:32:11Declawing: The Cruel Practice Hiding in Plain Sight featuring Dr. Jennifer Conrad, Founder, The Paw Project
Jan 28, 2025"Empathy must guide us—if we truly feel for our feline friends, declawing wouldn't exist."
Declawing might sound harmless, but what if it's one of the most misunderstood and harmful practices affecting cats today? In this powerful conversation, Stacy LeBaron chats with Dr. Jennifer Conrad, the trailblazing veterinarian behind The Paw Project, an organization on a mission to stop declawing for good. Dr. Conrad unravels the dark history of declawing, explaining why it's less about trimming claws and more about amputating a cat's defenses—both physically and emotionally.
With passion, relatability, and a wealth of know...
Duration: 00:28:03The Future of Non-Surgical Sterilization and Its Path to Ending Pet Homelessness, Featuring Gary Evans, President of the Alliance for Contraception in Cats and Dogs (ACC&D)
Jan 21, 2025"The fatality rate for kittens is appalling, and the goal is to reduce their suffering while ensuring healthier, happier lives for the cats that remain."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Join us this week for an enlightening conversation as Stacy LeBaron sits down with Gary Evans, the visionary President of the Alliance for Contraception in Cats and Dogs (ACC&D). Together, they explore groundbreaking advancements in non-surgical sterilization and their potential to transform how we manage cat and dog populations. Gary unpacks the science, challenges, and promising developments behind single-injection contraceptives and the...
Duration: 00:30:02Colony Caretaking Tips & Tricks, Part 2, featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director of Neighborhood Cats
Jan 14, 2025"Every challenge in colony care has a solution. Whether it's predators, pests, or even harsh winters, the key is preparation and creativity."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Get ready to take your colony caretaking skills to the next level in part two of our action-packed webinar series! Bryan Kortis tackles the biggest challenges faced by community cat caretakers, from crafting winter shelters to battling pests and promoting feline health. Discover creative solutions to common problems and learn how to transform skeptics into TNR supporters. Whether you're building a cozy shelter from scratch or a...
Duration: 00:28:59Colony Caretaking Tips & Tricks, Part 1, featuring Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director of Neighborhood Cats
Jan 07, 2025"Community cats are creatures of habit. By feeding them on a routine schedule, you're not just meeting their needs—you're building trust and making caretaking easier for everyone."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
Welcome to part one of our two-part series on colony caretaking, where we uncover the secrets to thriving community cat colonies! Join Susan Richmond and Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats as they share game-changing strategies to create strong bonds with community cats through feeding routines. Learn how to select nutritious food without breaking the bank, set up feeding stations that ke...
Duration: 00:59:25Strategic Planning for Community Cats and Their Caregivers in 2025, Featuring Stacy LeBaron, Founder & Host of The Community Cats Podcast, with Mike Phillips, of Urban Cat League
Dec 31, 2024"My job is to figure out ways to get cats fixed. It's about strategy, collaboration, and making humane care accessible to every community."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
In this reflective and forward-thinking episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron takes center stage, offering listeners an intimate look at her mission and the exciting plans for 2025. Joined by Mike Phillips of Urban Cat League, Stacy discusses her journey of nearly three decades in animal welfare and the evolving goals of the podcast. With the motto "See it, Fix it, Solve it"...
Duration: 00:44:08From Dairy Farms to DIY: A Look Back at 2024 and a Sneak Peek into 2025 with Kristen Petrie, Technical Tabby at The Community Cats Podcast
Dec 24, 2024"Pick that project you've been dreaming of and dive in—you'll be amazed by what you can accomplish for your community's cats!"
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
This week, we're pulling back the curtain on the Community Cats Podcast with Kristen Petrie, our behind-the-scenes "Technical Tabby." Join host Stacy LeBaron as they dive into the highlights of a year filled with innovative ideas, cross-country adventures, and practical solutions for cat advocacy. From groundbreaking training sessions in Pennsylvania to a remarkable barn cat rescue in Vermont, Kristen and Stacy share the stories, challenges, and tr...
Duration: 00:33:34Piecing Together the Cat Overpopulation Puzzle, with Vicky Halls, Head of Unowned Cats, International Cat Care
Dec 17, 2024"Trap-neuter-return is one piece of the puzzle. When it's part of a strategic cat population management program, TNR becomes a powerful tool for addressing feline overpopulation."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.
How do we piece together the puzzle of cat overpopulation? In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, Stacy LeBaron chats with Vicky Halls, Head of Unowned Cats at International Cat Care, about innovative strategies to address this global challenge. Drawing on decades of experience in feline welfare, Vicky introduces her "jigsaw puzzle" approach to managing cat populations, highlighting the importance of...
Duration: 00:32:44How Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return Programs Protect Cats and Communities: With Dr. Bob Weedon, HQHVSN & Community Cat Surgeon at Paws Plus Veterinary
Dec 10, 2024"By creating this barrier to rabies between wildlife, pets, and people, it's not just about the well-being of the cats—it's about the well-being of the community."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, and the Whisker Tracker App.
In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Dr. Bob Weedon, an expert in veterinary public health and a leading advocate for Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) programs. Dr. Weedon shares insights into how TNVR programs are essential for managing cat populations and offer critical public health benefits. By vaccinating community ca...
Duration: 00:35:43How Meals on Wheels is Keeping People and Their Pets Together with Morgan Hultquist, Senior Manager of Strategy & Impact, Meals on Wheels, and Dan Capone, Executive Director, Meals on Wheels South Texas
Dec 03, 2024"97 percent of Meals on Wheels clients say that this type of programming does help them keep their pets. So it is really impactful and we're so grateful for that."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Whisker Tracker App.
In this episode, Stacy LeBaron dives into the inspiring intersection of pet welfare and human services with Morgan Hulquist of Meals on Wheels America and Dan Capone of Meals on Wheels South Texas. They discuss the groundbreaking Meals on Wheels Loves Pets program, which provides pet food, veterinary care, and emergency boarding for the...
Duration: 00:31:58Trap, Neuter, Write? Unraveling the Mystery of TNVR with Sharon Marchisello, Board Member, Fayette Humane Society
Nov 26, 2024"Trap-Neuter-Return isn't just a method; it's a mission to bring community, compassion, and a little mystery into the world of cats."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Whisker Tracker App.
In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron speaks with animal advocate and mystery author Sharon Marchisello. Sharon's lifelong passion for cats began early, sparking a journey that would lead her to volunteer work, board membership at the Fayette Humane Society in Fayetteville, GA, and, ultimately, authorship of a new cozy mystery, Trap, Neuter, Die. The novel is a...
Duration: 00:25:13Building a Safe Haven for Working Cats with Mary Scott, Director of the Working Cats Program, ASAP Cats
Nov 19, 2024"Working cat programs historically have been programs of last resort... I like to think of the working cats program as really going beyond that, where every cat has the possibility of a live outcome…"
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, and the Whisker Tracker App.
In this episode filled with insight and inspiration, Stacy LeBaron, host of The Community Cats Podcast, sits down with Mary Scott, a dedicated animal advocate with over 15 years in the field of animal welfare. Mary's journey, which started as a veterinary receptionist and shelter volunteer, le...
Duration: 00:34:03Saving Lives with Return-to-Field: The Future of Humane Cat Management, Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Nov 12, 2024"It's important to understand that nothing else works. There's no other method available if you want to control the cat population besides sterilization."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Whisker Tracker App.
If you missed Part 1 of this episode click here to listen now!
In this special, two-part audio presentation of a recent live webinar, we'll Explore Return-to-Field (RTF) programs for community cats with Bryan Kortis of Neighborhood Cats. With years of experience managing TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs, Kortis and his wife, Suzi Richmond, provide an expert perspective on the RTF...
Duration: 00:50:36Saving Lives with Return-to-Field: The Future of Humane Cat Management, Part 1, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Nov 05, 2024"It's important to understand that nothing else works. There's no other method available if you want to control the cat population besides sterilization."
This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund and the Whisker Tracker App.
In this special, two-part audio presentation of a recent live webinar, we'll Explore Return-to-Field (RTF) programs for community cats with Bryan Kortis of Neighborhood Cats. With years of experience managing TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs, Kortis and his wife, Suzi Richmond, provide an expert perspective on the RTF approach, discussing its benefits, challenges, and impact on communities. From the origins of RTF...
Duration: 00:44:40Mat the Cat Guy Took Up a TNR Torch in South Dakota and He's Not Stopping with Matt Tougas Founder and President, Sioux Empire TNR
Oct 29, 2024"I didn't want to start another rescue that was going to fill up."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund and the Whisker Tracker App.
In this episode of The Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron chats with Mat Tougas, also known as "Mat the Cat Guy," founder of the Sioux Empire TNR Coalition in southeastern South Dakota. Mat shares his unexpected journey from fostering wiener dogs to becoming a fierce advocate for Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs, despite ongoing legal hurdles in Sioux Falls.
He highlights how a stray kitten sparked his...
Duration: 00:26:01From Fearful to Fearless and the Push to Protect Canada's Cats with Natalia Hanson, Marketing & Communications Consultant Humane Canada
Oct 22, 2024"Shelters across the country are in crisis… sometimes keeping a pet at home where they're loved and safe is as simple as providing them with a bowl of food."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund.
In this insightful episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron speaks with Natalia Hansen, Marketing Coordinator for the Humane Canada Summit for Animals. Natalia shares her journey from being unsure of cats to becoming a self-professed "cat lady," all while playing a pivotal role in Canada's animal welfare movement. She highlights the work Humane Canada do...
Duration: 00:25:15Taking Rescue to New Heights with Michael Schneider, Founder of Pilots to the Rescue
Oct 15, 2024"Giving back is way more powerful than receiving. The benefits are tenfold, and they come back to you in ways you can't explain."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund and the Whisker Tracker App.
In this inspiring episode of The Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Michael Schneider, founder of Pilots to the Rescue, a pioneering nonprofit that merges his love for aviation with his dedication to saving animals. Michael shares the remarkable journey that led him to establish this unique organization, which has successfully transported over 3,000 animals from...
Duration: 00:29:36A Reproductive Revolution: Reframing TNR in Urban Landscapes with Katja M. Guenther, Professor at the University of California, Riverside
Oct 08, 2024"The reproductive justice framework is really useful for thinking about community cats and TNR because it opens us up to engaging with the lives of the cats both personally and before sterilization, but also afterwards."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund and Tomahawk Traps.
In this episode, Stacy LeBaron welcomes Katja Gunther, a professor of Gender and Sexuality Studies at the University of California, Riverside, and an avid animal rights advocate. Katyja's research delves into the intersections of human-animal relationships, feminist activism, and the challenges of animal sheltering. Her work, especially focused...
Duration: 00:33:043500 Cats and Counting: A Two-Woman TNR Success Story with Dr. Christine Monroe, Owner/Veterinarian & Rhonda Shaffer, Assistant/Trapper, Spay + Neuter Northwest
Oct 01, 2024"We will not spay and neuter ourselves out of the problem...the education is the lasting part of it, and that will go from person to person."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund and Tomahawk Traps.
In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, Stacy interviews Dr. Christine Monroe, a seasoned veterinarian, and Rhonda Shaffer, a dedicated trapper from Spay Neuter Northwest. Together, this two-woman team has enormously impacted feral cat populations in Whatcom County, pioneering innovative programs that provide compassionate care for thousands of cats. Through hands-on efforts, strategic collaboration, and a...
Duration: 00:36:45Mastering the Drop Trap: Essential Skills for Feline Trapping - Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Sep 24, 2024"When you're down to the last few cats and time is running out, the drop trap can be your saving grace."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund and the Whisker Tracker app.
In the second part of this special webinar series, Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats dives deeper into the complexities of drop trap techniques. Exploring the advanced applications of drop traps, including the innovative auto drop trap system developed by Neighborhood Cats, you will get all the insights of their recent experiences from the Maui wildfire rescue operation, highlighting how they a...
Duration: 00:40:44Mastering the Drop Trap: Essential Skills for Feline Trapping - Part 1, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Sep 17, 2024"The drop trap is the most humane and effective way to trap those hard-to-catch cats, and once you've mastered it, you'll wonder how you ever managed without it."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Acatemy, and Tomahawk Traps.
Join Bryan Kortis and Suzi Richmond from Neighborhood Cats for a special broadcast of two-part webinar on the drop trap. Bryan and Suzi, a dynamic duo known for their deep expertise in Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and community cat management, share their experiences, practical tips, and innovative strategies for effectively managing feral cat colonies, focusing...
Duration: 00:39:57Mastering Feline Behavior and Enrichment, with Ingrid Johnson, Certified Cat Behavior Consultant, Fundamentally Feline
Sep 10, 2024"Don't underestimate your cats. Elevate your expectations of them, and you'll be amazed at what they can achieve."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund and The Acatemy .
What if your cat's behavior problems could be solved with just a few simple changes to their environment? Today, we're speaking with Ingrid Johnson, a certified cat behavior consultant and the innovative mind behind Fundamentally Feline. Ingrid's expertise in feline behavior and environmental enrichment has helped countless cat owners create happier, healthier lives for their pets.
In this episode, Ingrid shares her journey...
Duration: 00:29:44Are Cats the Underdogs in Municipal Politics with Stuart Kroll, Animal Rights Advocate, Port Washington, Long Island
Sep 03, 2024"Our goal is to put as much public pressure on the town representatives as possible and to spread as much awareness as we can, because the more people that are aware of the problem, the more people are going to ask the town to do something about it."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund and Tomahawk Traps.
Are you ready to be inspired by a relentless advocate for feline welfare? In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron chats with Stuart Kroll, a passionate animal rights advocate with over 15 y...
Duration: 00:26:25Targeted TNR: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck, Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Aug 27, 2024"Collaboration between animal welfare groups and local governments is the key to creating sustainable, humane community cat programs that work for everyone."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Keeping People and Pets Together Pet Food Pantry, and Tomahawk Traps.
In the second half of this enlightening two-part webinar series, Stacy LeBaron is once again joined by TNR experts Susie Richmond and Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats. In this episode, Brian details the complexities of maintaining and expanding a targeted TNR program once it's off the ground.
Brian shares his...
Duration: 00:39:33Targeted TNR: Getting the Most Bang for Your Buck, Part 1, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Aug 20, 2024"Understanding the environment and how we approach the ecosystem with community cats is essential, not just for the cats but for the overall health of the communities they inhabit."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, Humane Canada, and The Keeping People and Pets Together Pet Food Pantry.
In this first installment of a special two-part webinar series, Stacy LeBaron dives deep into the world of Targeted Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) with Bryan Kortis, the TNR dynamo from Neighborhood Cats. His expertise in managing high-impact TNR programs is unparalleled, and in this episode, he uncovers...
Duration: 00:48:43Improving the Lives of Cats Through Logistics and Legislation with Danielle Bays, Senior Analyst for Cat Protection and Policy, HSUS
Aug 13, 2024"Think about all the things that cats go through…they're smart, they're clever and we can learn from them."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, Humane Canada, and Tomahawk Traps.
Are you curious about the evolving landscape of community cat welfare in the United States? In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, Stacy LeBaron sits down with Danielle Bays, Senior Analyst for Cat Protection and Policy at the Humane Society of the United States. With more than 20 years of experience, Danielle shares her view on the current st...
Duration: 00:26:41Creative Solutions for Rural Cats in Canada with Dr. Savannah Howse, Veterinarian and RJ Bailot, Executive Director, Canadian Animal Task Force
Aug 06, 2024"The community building aspect of this is so key…that interconnectedness is really what allows us to have the impact that we do."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, the Keeping People and Pets Together Pet Food Pantry, and Tomahawk Traps.
Rural areas present pronounced challenges in community cat welfare, especially in times of veterinary and resource shortages. Join us for a conversation with Dr. Savannah Howes, a dedicated veterinarian from Alberta, and RJ Bailot, the Executive Director of the Canadian Animal Task Force. Together, they share their jou...
Duration: 00:26:32Connecting with Cats to Bridge the Communication Gap with Nancy Mello, Animal Communicator and Evidential Medium
Jul 30, 2024"Animals were my friends, and even before I had words for it, they understood me and gave me comfort and love in a way that I didn't feel in my life, in my family."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, and Tomahawk Traps.
Have you ever wondered if you could understand what your cat is thinking or feeling? In this moving episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Nancy Mello, an animal communicator and psychic from Mystic, Connecticut, with over 500 five-star Google reviews...
Duration: 00:27:31Enhancing Feline Welfare in the Community and Shelters through Behavior Insights and Socialization Techniques with Dot Baisly, Executive Director, IAABC
Jul 23, 2024"Understanding a cat's socialization history can be the key to determining the best outcome for community cats in shelters."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, and Humane Canada's Summit for Animals.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Dot Baisly, a certified behavior consultant with a rich background in animal welfare. Dot shares her story of growing up with cats and how her experiences led her to a career in feline behavior. With roles at IAABC and various shelters, she has a wealth of knowledge to share.
Collaboration is Curbing the Cat Population in Fresno with Brandi Sherman, Co-Founder, Fresno TNR
Jul 16, 2024"We were trying to rescue our way out, which is never going to happen."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, and Tomahawk Traps.
Step into the world of Brandi Sherman as she shares her remarkable journey from a rural upbringing surrounded by vulnerable cats to leading Fresno TNR— an initiative dedicated to controlling and caring for community cats through Trap-Neuter-Return.
In this episode, Brandy reveals how her childhood observations of animal hardship fueled her commitment to change and ignited a mission to save lives through spay and...
Duration: 00:29:05Catalyzing Change in Community Cat Care with Dawn Benefiel, Executive Director, Indy Neighborhood Cats
Jul 09, 2024"Without dreaming big and showing people what we think is needed, we'll never get that dial changed and we need that to change mightily."
This episode is sponsored in part by Maddie's Fund, The Community Cat Clinic, and Tomahawk Traps.
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dawn Benefiel, founder of Indy Neighborhood Cats, as she shares her journey from encountering stray kittens to orchestrating an essential shift in community cat management. This episode delves into how Dawn's initial act of kindness led to the creation of a strategic plan aimed at remodeling animal welfare...
Duration: 00:23:56From Advertising to Advocacy with Tracy Dean, Director of Community Cats of Reno
Jul 02, 2024"Everybody that I speak with, I just emphasize that we are the answer. We are the solution and they need to be part of the solution."
Episode #567
When Tracy Dean left her advertising career to dedicate herself to the welfare of community cats in Reno, she embarked on an unexpected and redefining journey. This episode is not merely a conversation; it is a vivid narrative about Tracy's profound engagement with the world of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and her leadership at Community Cats of Reno. Her story is a testament to how a single person's passion can e...
Duration: 00:23:51Welcome to The Community Cats Podcast
Jun 28, 2024Our mission is to provide education, information and dialogue that will create a supportive environment empowering people to help cats in their community.
Duration: 00:01:23566: Trappers' Tips and Tricks, Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Jun 25, 2024How can you outsmart even the wariest of community cats? Join us for the second part of our conversation with expert trapper Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats, where he unveils advanced strategies for trapping elusive felines. Learn the art of camouflaging traps with natural materials like burlap, and discover innovative baiting techniques using food boats and duct tape. Bryan shares his wisdom on the dowel trick for cats that step over trip plates and the value of experimenting with various baits such as herbal options and fried chicken. Don't miss his crucial advice on always being prepared with sheets...
Duration: 00:27:09565: Trappers Tips and Tricks, Part 1, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Jun 18, 2024What if you could turn the most elusive feral cat into a successfully trapped and cared-for community member? Join Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats as he brings extensive experience to the forefront in this special two-part audio presentation. Learn effective cat trapping techniques, established feeding patterns, and the use of various traps such as roundhouse and drop traps.
Get ready to explore the nuts and bolts of using the uniquely designed roundhouse trap to catch feral cats. We'll discuss why having a variety of traps is crucial and offer practical tips for transferring cats and selecting the...
Duration: 00:45:33564: Blending the Head and Heart to Help Animals, with Stephanie Mathers, Founder of Grants 4 Animals
Jun 11, 2024Ever wondered how treating a nonprofit like a business can unlock millions in funding? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Stephanie Mathers, a passionate animal welfare advocate and skilled grant writer, who has transitioned from the world of education to founding Grants for Animals.
Stephanie's journey began with the adoption of her first cat, Shakespeare, and led her to significant involvement in TNR programs in Michigan. Overcoming numerous challenges, she has since secured over $2 million in funding for animal-related nonprofits, profoundly impacting TNR initiatives and beyond.
Discover the essential steps to getting your nonprofit...
Duration: 00:35:11563: Nuggets of Hope, with Kim Lengling, Author and Host of the Let Fear Bounce Podcast
Jun 04, 2024When Muffin, a little ball of fur with mischievous eyes, first claimed a corner of my heart, I never imagined where that love would lead. Now I'm joined by Kim Lengling, whose story mirrors the transformative power of companionship, not just with our four-legged friends but with those who share our human journey.
Kim, a vocal supporter of veterans and advocate for cats, delves into her life's narrative that wove together the threads of animal love and the resolve to aid those battling PTSD. Her poignant experiences, beginning with a childhood feline friend and extending to her a...
Duration: 00:24:16562: From the Backyard to the Front Page: Building a TNR Movement, Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
May 28, 2024Join us as we continue our exploration of the transformative power of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programs in the second part of our series with Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats. He shares invaluable insights on adapting TNR initiatives to various community sizes, the balance between grassroots efforts and expert approaches, and the essential steps for involving community members.
Listen in as we discuss the journey from awareness to action for local caretakers and the strategic expansion of TNR efforts that embrace the entire community. We take a deep look at what makes an effective TNR program tick. From not...
Duration: 00:50:45561: From the Backyard to the Front Page: Building a TNR Movement, Part 1, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
May 21, 2024Unlock the secrets behind the transformative Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) movement with Neighborhood Cats' Bryan Kortis as we take you on a riveting two-part adventure. Dive into the grassroots story of New York City's cat population control, discovering how targeted TNR projects and collaborative community efforts led to a dramatic reduction in euthanasia rates. Be inspired by the model colony's success, where cat numbers plummeted through strategic interventions and the passionate involvement of local caretakers.
This week, we're not just talking TNR; we're showcasing the strategic mastery that has reshaped neighborhoods and saved feline lives. We explore how pilot p...
Duration: 00:44:52560: Earning Ferals' Faith and Trust, with Caitlin Porter, Executive Director of From Feral to Family
May 14, 2024Have you ever looked into the eyes of a feral cat and wondered what it would take to transform that wary creature into a contented purring pet in your lap? Our guest, Caitlin Porter from From Feral to Family, joins us to weave an inspiring tale of how she navigates the delicate path from mistrust to affection with adult feral cats. With her at the helm, we journey through the intricate socialization process, revealing not just the dedication and patience required, but the immeasurable rewards of witnessing a feral cat's leap of faith into family life.
Caitlin's...
Duration: 00:27:28559: Dr. Kimberly Mann, Medical Director & Surgeon of the York County SPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic, and Steven Martinez, Executive Director of the York County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
May 07, 2024When compassion meets innovation, extraordinary things happen. That's the story we're telling today, with Dr. Kimberly Mann and Steven Martinez, who are changing the lives of thousands of community cats through the York County SPCA spay/neuter clinic. Kimberly, a veterinarian with surgical prowess and a big heart, alongside Steven's business acumen, has led their clinic to an astounding 11,000 surgeries in a single year. Their shared dedication not only speaks volumes about their love for animals but also sets an inspiring standard in animal welfare.
The complexities of managing feline populations are at the forefront of our d...
Duration: 00:31:50558: Fine Tuning TNR Clinics with Cameron Greig, Community Cat Coordinator at the Humane Society of Huron Valley
Apr 30, 2024Get a glimpse of what it's like on the front lines of feline welfare. Cameron Greig joins us from the Humane Society of Huron Valley to discuss the trials and triumphs of their TNR (trap-neuter-return) program. It's a revealing chat about the ingenuity required to navigate staffing shortages, the shift towards online systems to streamline TNR efforts, and the crucial weekend spay-neuter events that help keep their mission afloat.
Cameron's dedication to the care of community cats shines through as he explains the intricacies of dealing with unsocialized felines and the critical need for TNR-savvy vets in a...
Duration: 00:22:33557: Keeping an Open Mind to Reduce Stress and Pain in Cats with Stacy McVicker, DVM, CVA, CCRT, Veterinarian & Crazy Cat Lady
Apr 23, 2024Have you ever watched your cat move with less of its usual grace or hesitate before leaping onto its favorite perch? In this episode, understand the complex world of feline pain with Dr. Stacy McVicker. These whiskered companions are masters at masking discomfort, but Dr. McVicker's expertise, inspired by the stories of James Herriot, equips us with the tools to uncover what our cats cannot voice. We chart the journey from the veiled signs of pain in our feline friends to actionable steps that can significantly enhance their quality of life.
Ferris, a community cat with hyperthyroidism a...
Duration: 00:38:39556: Colony Caretaking Tips & Tricks Part 2, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Apr 16, 2024Brace your whiskers for a deep dive into the heartwarming world of community cat care as we reveal secrets to crafting the perfect winter shelters and share non-invasive tricks for keeping our feline friends safe and neighbors happy. Our guide through this chilly chapter is Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director at Neighborhood Cats. His expertise is just what we need to navigate the wintry challenges that face community cats.
Bryan brings a wealth of knowledge and practical advice on constructing winter shelters that not only provide warmth but also blend seamlessly into urban landscapes. Whether it's crafting...
Duration: 00:47:37555: Colony Caretaking Tips and Tricks Part 1 with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Apr 09, 2024Unlock the secrets to managing a thriving community cat colony as we team up with experts Bryan Kortis from Neighborhood Cats shares essential tips on maintaining a consistent feeding schedule and crafting secure feeding locations that benefit our feline companions.
Prepare to enhance your caretaking skills. Learn how to keep mealtime peaceful and food safe from wildlife intruders. Join us for a deep dive into cat nutrition as we dissect pet food labels, revealing the necessity of meat-based ingredients for your colony's carnivorous diet. We demystify the grain vs. meat debate and serve up practical advice on...
Duration: 00:45:11A Special "Because We Love It" Episode! Check Out the United We Spay Podcast with Stacy LeBaron and Dr. Philip Bushby
Apr 06, 2024Today we wanted to share an episode of The United We Spay Podcast. It's a new monthly show from the United Spay Alliance and it's hosted by the one and only Stacy LeBaron. In each episode, they delve into the heart of a movement that's changing the lives of animals and communities for the better with the mission to build awareness, educate, and empower. Their episodes are always interesting and there's a lot of crossover with Community Cats Podcast's favorite topics so we thought you'd enjoy their show as much as we do.
On this episode of...
Duration: 00:27:50554: Just Getting Started with Bonney Brown, President of Humane Network and Options Veterinary Care
Apr 02, 2024It's the passion of people like Bonney Brown that fuels today's conversation on the vital role spay and neuter programs play in controlling cat overpopulation. We reminisce about the early days of trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs and explore how her journey, from being inspired by her parents' rescue endeavors to leading impactful animal welfare initiatives, underscores the importance of accessible veterinary care and community collaboration.
Navigate the complex landscape of non-profit veterinary clinics, shedding light on how they operate financially and serve local communities with compassion and efficiency. We also discuss the nuances of staffing, from leveraging the...
Duration: 00:28:54553: Return-to-Field: How Shelters Save Community Cats Part 2 with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Mar 26, 2024Ever wondered how a stray feline's journey through a Return to Field (RTF) program can lead it back home? This week, we continue our deep dive into the world of community cats, focusing on the pivotal steps from shelter intake to safe return, and the intricate assessments that ensure these whiskered wanderers thrive. Join in as we examine the critical information that shelters must gather and the art of interpreting feline behavior – a true detective story of piecing together each cat's past.
Explore how shelters can best communicate with those who find stray cats and the creative so...
Duration: 00:54:37552: Return-to-Field: How Shelters Save Community Cats, Part 1, with Bryan Kortis, National Programs Director, Neighborhood Cats
Mar 19, 2024"I think it's important to acknowledge that there's a reason we're trying to solve community cat over population because this is, ya know, not always a great situation for the cats. When it comes to return to field, we're looking at animals coming into the shelter…they have good body condition scores, they appear quite healthy, and that lets you know that they're figuring it out. That they're surviving in their territory. And when you return them, they're not facing any more or fewer risks than they faced before they came into the shelter and allowing them to continue to...
Duration: 00:45:43551: Picking Up Pizza and Saving Cats with Nadia Oseguera, Program Manager for the UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program and Chris Ramon, Chief Program Officer for Pasadena Humane
Mar 12, 2024Sometimes life surprises you with a mission when you least expect it, like during a routine pizza run that suddenly catapults you into the world of community cat care. That's exactly what happened to Nadia Oseguera and Chris Ramon, who found themselves drawn into the compassionate web of Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) and fostering initiatives.
Filled with both unexpected challenges and profound fulfillment, their stories showcase the emotional investment required to effect positive change for feline friends and their human counterparts. As you delve deeper into their inspiring journeys, uncover the deep-seated dedication that drives volunteers to tirelessly work t...
Duration: 00:30:54550: Rethinking the Shelter with Erin-Claire (EC) Michaels, Executive Director of the Cat Care Society
Mar 05, 2024Unlock the heart and soul of feline welfare with EC Michaels from the Cat Care Society, as we share an intimate conversation about a lifetime spent in the company of cats. This episode isn't just another talk – it's a journey through the passion-fueled world of cat care, punctuated by the society's groundbreaking work with special needs felines.
EC divulges the intricacies of a cage-free haven for those whiskered friends battling FELV and FIV, painting a vivid picture of an organization that has evolved over forty years to meet the ever-changing demands of cat welfare and adoption.
A...
Duration: 00:21:21549: Tech That Can Play Fetch with Chris Roy, Founder of Doobert.com
Feb 27, 2024Take a peek into a future where technology and animal welfare walk paw-in-paw. Chris Roy is here to unpack the leaps Doobert has made in feline welfare technology. He's bringing along their case management module that's reshaping how animal organizations handle the gamut of operations from colony management to those heartwarming adoption stories.
Imagine a world where automated workflows and two-way text messaging make life a breeze for those tirelessly reporting grants and tackling the day-to-day administrative hustle. That world isn't a far-off dream, it's what Chris and Doobert are turning into a reality. Chris explains the v...
Duration: 00:28:06