The Community Cats Podcast

"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" at its core, Stacy outlines the strategic initiatives aimed at achieving humane solutions for community cats. Listeners will gain insight into key topics, including the United Spay Alliance's efforts to bolster spay/neuter programs, the role of collaboration with social services, and the challenges of succession planning in rescue organizations. This episode is packed with innovative ideas, from the importance of accessible veteri

"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 triumphs that shaped 2024. But that’s just the beginning—2025 is shaping up to be the year of doing it yourself! With new tools like the Community Cat Calculator and expanded educational programs, this episode offers a glimpse into how you can take charge of spay/neuter access and TNR efforts in your community. Whether you're learning from inspiring pioneers like Dr. Becky Morrow or wrangling

“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 collaboration, root-cause solutions, and strategic trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs. Learn how to connect the pieces for effective cat population management, navigate the challenges of global resource disparities, and explore the progressive work of the Battersea Cat Project. Whether you’re a TNR pro or new to community cat care, this episode offers actionable insights and ins

“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 cats, TNVR efforts create a vital “barrier” against diseases like rabies, protecting pets and humans. Dr. Weedon explains how public health officials can embrace TNVR as a community health strategy, emphasizing the power of collaboration between local governments, public health departments, and animal advocates. The conversation ventures into the science behind rabies immunity, deb

“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 pets of homebound seniors. With this unique approach, Meals on Wheels is helping clients maintain cherished bonds with their animals, often their primary source of comfort and companionship. Morgan and Dan highlight the program’s nationwide growth, supported by partnerships like PetSmart Charities, and share stories that reveal the profound impact these services have on clients’ lives. From local pet food deliveries to connecting seniors

“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 blend of suspense and education, spotlighting Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR) practices within a storyline set in the world of animal rescue. Sharon delves into the real-life challenges and triumphs of TNVR efforts in Georgia, where unique cultural and legal landscapes impact community cat populations. Sharon shares firsthand insights on the highs and lows of fostering, local partnerships that facilitate adopti

"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, led her to become the director of the ASAP Cat Shelter's Working Cats Program in Santa Barbara, California. This unique initiative offers non-social, feral, or semi-social cats a second chance by placing them as "working cats" on farms, nurseries, and other properties where they can thrive while providing natural pest control. Throughout the episode, Mary shares her strategies for acclimating cats to new environments and

"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 approach, discussing its benefits, challenges, and impact on communities. From the origins of RTF programs to their evolving role in shelters across the U.S., they share success stories and compelling data showing how RTF reduces shelter euthanasia rates, frees up resources, and helps create a humane solution for managing feral and stray cat populations. They also touch on practical strategies for impl

"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 programs to their evolving role in shelters across the U.S., they share success stories and compelling data showing how RTF reduces shelter euthanasia rates, frees up resources, and helps create a humane solution for managing feral and stray cat populations. They also touch on practical strategies for implementing RTF in various communities, legal considerations, and

"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 Matt Tougas, also known as "Matt the Cat Guy," founder of the Sioux Empire TNR Coalition in southeastern South Dakota. Matt 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 love for feline welfare and how his organization is now leading the charge to reduce cat overpopulation through TNR efforts. With over 275 cats spayed and neutered in their first year, Sioux Empire TNR is making remarkable strides, even without legal backing in some areas. Matt talks about the challenges of securing affordable spay/neuter services, building community support, and overcoming public misconceptions about TNR. Tune in to hear about Matt’s mis

"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 does, from advocating for animal welfare legislation to organizing Canada's largest animal welfare conference. Natalia discusses the successes of Humane Canada, such as their advocacy for the ban on whale and dolphin captivity for entertainment, and the challenges that remain, including a nationwide shortage of veterinarians. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration in animal welfare and sheds light on innovative solutions like mobil

"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 overcrowded shelters to new homes across the country. Michael reveals the behind-the-scenes logistics of these lifesaving missions, discussing the special considerations of flying with animals and the profound fulfillment of combining passion with purpose. Beyond the flights themselves, he emphasizes the transformative power of hands-on involvement in rescue work, challenging listeners to move beyond donations and actively

"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 on community cats in Los Angeles, brings a fresh perspective to the ongoing debates around TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return), reproductive justice, and the ethics of animal care. Stacy and Katja explore the unique challenges faced by community cats in Los Angeles, the cultural and ethical considerations surrounding TNR, and the concept of reproductive justice as it applies to animal welfare.

"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 deep-rooted passion, they are leading the way in transforming how communities manage feral cats. Dr. Monroe and Rhonda share the origins of their work, which began with a simple idea over breakfast and evolved into a model for managing feral colonies. They discuss their unique approaches, from mass trappings to individual cat rescues, and their efforts to educate and empower local communitie

“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 adapted their techniques to save hundreds of cats in a disaster zone. This episode not only provides a wealth of practical advice but also inspires listeners with stories of perseverance and creativity in the face of challenging TNR situations. Whether you’re new to community cat care or a seasoned TNR veteran, this episode will expand your toolkit for managing feral cat colonies effectively. Key Takeaways: Auto Drop Trap Innovation: Le

"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 on advanced trapping techniques. Bryan discuss everything from the basics of using drop traps to the intricacies of dealing with challenging cats and unique trapping scenarios. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the thought processes behind effective TNR, learning not just how to trap cats, but why certain methods work better in different situations. This episode is packed with information that’s crucial

“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 from starting in the field of feline behavior in the early 2000s to becoming a leading expert in the industry. We delve into the importance of environmental enrichment for indoor cats, the benefits of food puzzles, and how these tools can prevent boredom and reduce behavior problems. Ingrid also discusses the challenges of medicating cats and offers practical strategies for making this process smoother and le

"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 years of experience. Stuart's journey began with feeding a small colony of semi-feral cats in Port Washington, Long Island, which led him to become deeply involved in animal rescue and political advocacy. He shares his mission to establish a cat shelter in North Hempstead, a wealthy town with no municipal shelter for cats, and the challenges he faces in holding municipalities accountable for animal welfare. Join us as Stuart discusses the complexities of creating a supportive environ

"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 and Susie’s experiences with overcoming common obstacles, such as community resistance, resource limitations, and the difficulties of keeping momentum going after the initial campaign. You will hear the importance of setting realistic goals and timelines and gain practical advice on how to sustain your efforts over the long term. This episode is packed with actionable insights and proven strategies to help you navigate the

"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 the strategies that have made their programs so successful. You will be guided through the critical first steps of a targeted TNR campaign, focusing on how to identify the most impactful areas for intervention. Learn, from his experiences and insights, why geographical focus is essential for long-term success and how it can dramatically change the landscape for community cats. Whether you’re just getting started o