The Community Cats Podcast

"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 Matt 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, Matt and his coalition have made major strides—convincing city officials to support an ordinance that will formally allow and protect TNR efforts within the city. Matt shares how persistence, education, and coalition-building helped turn skeptics into supporters, including local lawmakers and the Humane Society. He discusses the upcoming city council vote, the potential for a dedicated TNR veterinarian, and the challenges of implementing a sustainable community cat program. He also highlights how Sioux Falls’ success could inspire neighboring cities to adopt similar policies, ultimately leadi