The Top Dog Podcast

Top Dog Podcast with Marnie Russ | Leading a Movement to Save Neonatal Kittens

The most vulnerable animals in shelters are also the most adoptable. In this episode of Top Dog Podcast, we talk with Marnie Russ, founder of the National Kitten Coalition and creator of Kitten College — a groundbreaking program focused on saving neonatal kittens through education, foster support, and scalable systems. After a successful career as an international aerospace lobbyist, Marnie shifted her focus to animal welfare — building one of the most impactful neonatal kitten programs in the country. In this conversation, we explore: • Why neonatal kittens are the most at-risk population in shelters • How Kitten College is transforming foster programs nationwide • Breaking down barriers to fostering through education and support • Scaling lifesaving programs for shelters of all sizes • Turning passion into a national movement Marnie shares how simple, structured systems — combined with the right education — can save thousands of lives and empower everyday people to foster with confidence. 👉 Learn more about tools supporting animal welfare organizations at https://doobert.com/ Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of animal welfare.

Top Dog Podcast with Natalie Ahwesh | Leading Policy Change in Animal Welfare

Real change in animal welfare doesn’t just happen in shelters — it happens through systems. In this episode of Top Dog Podcast, we talk with Natalie Ahwesh, Executive Director of Humane Action Pennsylvania. From a background in mathematics to leading statewide policy initiatives, Natalie has helped pass nearly 30 animal welfare laws — impacting thousands of animals across Pennsylvania. Her work focuses on addressing the root causes of animal welfare issues through legislation, education, and community collaboration. In this conversation, we discuss: • How policy creates long-term impact for animals • Building coalitions with unexpected partners • The connection between animal welfare and social issues • Leading without a traditional strategic roadmap • Staying motivated in long-term, high-impact work Natalie shares how thinking beyond direct care — and focusing on systemic change — can transform entire communities. 👉 Learn more about how technology supports animal welfare organizations at https://doobert.com/ Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of animal welfare.

Top Dog Podcast with Shelly Moore | From Accidental Start to Leading Humane Society of Charlotte

What does it take to lead and evolve animal welfare over four decades of change? In this episode of Top Dog Podcast, we sit down with Shelly Moore, CEO of the Humane Society of Charlotte. With more than 40 years of experience, Shelly shares how an unexpected visit to a shelter turned into a lifelong mission of leadership, innovation, and community impact. Shelly walks us through the evolution of animal welfare—from high-volume sheltering to today’s community-centered approach focused on prevention, access to care, and keeping pets with the families who love them. She also shares how her organization is redefining what a modern animal shelter looks and feels like. She also reflects on leadership growth, building strong organizational culture, and why compassion, accountability, and non-judgment are essential in serving both animals and people. In this conversation, we explore: • How animal welfare has evolved over the past 40 years • Creating a community resource center instead of a traditional shelter • Supporting pet owners through crisis and prevention programs • Leadership lessons in building teams and future leaders • Why meeting people where they are leads to better outcomes This powerful conversation highlights how experience, empathy, and forward-thinking leadership can shape the future of animal welfare—and create lasting impact for both pets and people. Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of animal welfare. Learn more about tools and resources for animal shelters, rescues, and organizations at https://doobert.com/

Top Dog Podcast with Sheryl Blancato | Saving 64,000 Animals a Year Without Building Bigger Shelters

What if the key to saving more animals isn’t building bigger shelters—but keeping pets out of them entirely? In this episode of Top Dog Podcast, we sit down with Sheryl Blancato, Founder of Second Chance Animal Services. From her early days as an animal control officer to leading a nationally recognized nonprofit, Sheryl shares how her organization has grown to help over 64,000 animals each year through innovative, community-based programs. Sheryl dives into the philosophy of “access to care,” explaining why affordable veterinary services, food support, and community outreach are the real solutions to overcrowded shelters. She also shares how applying business principles like Lean Six Sigma has allowed her organization to maximize impact while staying financially sustainable. She also reflects on leadership, making tough decisions, and why nonprofits must operate with both heart and strategy to truly create lasting change. In this conversation, we explore: • Why building more shelters isn’t the solution • The power of affordable veterinary care and prevention • Programs supporting veterans and domestic violence survivors • Using Lean Six Sigma to maximize nonprofit impact • How community support keeps pets in loving homes This powerful conversation challenges traditional thinking in animal welfare and shows how efficiency, compassion, and innovation can save more lives at scale. Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of animal welfare. Learn more about tools and resources for animal shelters, rescues, and organizations at https://doobert.com/

Top Dog Podcast with Jakie Hernández | Breaking Barriers & Building Compassionate Animal Welfare

What does the future of animal welfare look like when trust comes first? In this episode of Top Dog Podcast, we sit down with Jakie Hernández, Vice President of Shelter Operations and Strategy at the Nebraska Humane Society. With two decades of experience and leadership across communities nationwide, Jakie shares why breaking down silos, meeting people where they are, and leading with empathy are essential to lasting change in animal welfare. Jakie reflects on how her own adoption journey shaped her career, why assumptions can limit life-changing opportunities, and how shelters can better serve both animals and people through compassion-first leadership. She also discusses the importance of community outreach, language access, and building programs that create real connection. In this conversation, we explore: • Building trust within diverse communities • Keeping pets and families together through support programs • Why shelters must focus on impact, not just activity • Innovative programs like dog day outs and staycations • Leading teams with compassion, grace, and purpose This inspiring conversation highlights how humane organizations can create stronger communities by saying yes more often, removing judgment, and helping both ends of the leash. It’s a powerful reminder that the future of animal welfare depends on collaboration, empathy, and meeting people where they are. Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of animal welfare. Learn more about tools and resources for animal shelters, rescues, and organizations at https://doobert.com/