Tails of Resilience

The Wildlings Way: Compassion, Commitment & Community with Ally Remington

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, Jolene talks with Ally Remington, founder of Wildlings Forest Sanctuary. Ally shares how a sanctuary that began with her and her husband doing everything on their own has transformed into a thriving 501(c)(3) supported by a passionate community of volunteers. She highlights the deep collaboration between rescues and sanctuaries across the region, the behind-the-scenes coordination that saves lives, and the emotional and physical toll of work that never stops.
Ally speaks honestly about resilience — how it’s not about feeling strong, but about showing up, no matter what, because the animals’ lives depend on it. She shares the story of Gertie, an 800-pound pig whose gentle spirit and grit have become a symbol of what’s possible when compassion meets determination. From crisis moments to big dreams for the sanctuary’s future, Ally reminds us that everyone can play a role in creating a kinder world for animals.
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Wildlings Forest Sanctuary
Website: https://www.wildlingsforest.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildlingsforest
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wildlingsforest/
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/wildlingsforest
🌟 Links + Resources:
CascadiaFarmSantuaries.org
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Boundaries, Burnout, and the Unpredictable World of Rescue with Micki Simeone with West Columbia Gorge Humane

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we’re joined by Micki Simone from West Columbia Gorge Humane Society—a small but mighty nonprofit based in Washougal, Washington, where every animal is treated as an individual with a story worth honoring.
Micki met with us from her car in a parking lot at night—a fitting snapshot of how unpredictable and all-consuming rescue work can be. In our conversation, she speaks with honesty and heart about the emotional and logistical challenges her team faces, and the even bigger systemic struggles that rescues across the country are up against.
We talk about what it really takes to stay in this field—the kind of resilience that’s built over time, the importance of boundaries and self-care, and the ongoing effort to help the public understand the very real limitations that all shelters and rescue groups face.
This episode is a reminder that behind every animal saved is a human doing their best—often in the dark, literally and figuratively—with deep love, fierce determination, and the quiet hope that their work makes a difference.
STATS FOLLOW UP:
-Every week, we take in an average of 36 animals. These animals are spayed/neutered and receive vaccinations/parasite control, and microchipping. Sixty-two percent of the animals we intake require additional medical treatment for illnesses or procedures beyond routine care. Medical procedures, such as dental work, mass removal, or URI treatment.  
-We also have two behavior specialists who help prepare the animals for adoption through training and enrichment, ensuring both mental and physical health. 
-Monthly, we distribute approximately 1,222 lbs of pet food and 78 pet supply items. We also provide lifesaving veterinary financial assistance and field services to address unwanted pet behaviors in homes. 
-On average, we TNR 100 cats per year. 
-Monthly, our clinic performs spay/neuter surgeries on an average of 103 animals. 
-We work closely with our local animal control officers to care for stray dogs, reuniting them with their families or rehoming them. 
-Weekly, on average, we take 233 calls, receive 296 emails, and assist a steady stream of walk-in visitors
 
More Information:
Why many Americans fear they can’t afford pets anymore, Source: USA TODAYhttps://share.google/BxNLwfiQHMimUNAaE
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
🔗 Featured Rescue:
West Columbia Gorge Humane Society (WCGHS)
Website: https://wcghs.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wcghs/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/wcghumane
🌟 Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Resilience in the Mud: A Conversation with Wendy Smith of Odd Man Inn

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, Jolene sits down with Wendy Smith, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Odd Man Inn Animal Refuge in Jamestown, Tennessee — a 93-acre sanctuary home to nearly 200 rescued animals, including more than 175 pigs.
Wendy opens up about the incredible journey of taking on a property filled with animals in need and the years of hard work that followed — from caring for the pigs, to rehabilitating the land, to slowly upgrading the facilities that keep everyone safe. She shares her honest reflections on what it truly takes to sustain this work, the gratitude that keeps her grounded, and the importance of knowing your capacity, setting boundaries, and holding onto moments of joy.
Her story is one of courage, humility, and deep compassion — a reminder that resilience often looks like continuing to show up, even when the mud gets deep.
🎧 Listen in for a candid and inspiring conversation about leadership, self-awareness, and building a life rooted in purpose and care.
#TailsOfResilience #OddManInn #AnimalRescue #SanctuaryLife #PigSanctuary #ResilientLeadership #CompassionInAction #AnimalAdvocacy #FarmSanctuary
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Odd Man Inn
Website: https://www.oddmaninn.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oddmaninn/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/oddmaninn/
🌟 Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Building a System of Care: The PAW Team Approach with Nicole Perkins

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we talk with Nicole Perkins, Director of the Portland Animal Welfare (PAW) Team — a grassroots nonprofit providing veterinary care, supplies, and support to more than 3,000 Portland-area families and their pets each year.
Nicole shares openly about the emotional realities of rescue work and what it takes to sustain compassion in the face of overwhelming need. From navigating burnout and setting boundaries to finding joy in small moments, Nicole offers honest reflections on what it means to lead during hard times.
We explore her journey from the arts world to animal welfare, her lessons in courage and conflict, and her belief that animals, people, and the environment are all part of one interconnected system of care.
This conversation is both grounding and inspiring — a reminder that resilience isn’t about doing it all, but about knowing when to pause, breathe, and put the oxygen mask on first. 🐾💜
#TailsOfResilience #PAWTeam #AnimalWelfare #RescueLeadership #BurnoutRecovery #CompassionFatigue #AnimalRescuePodcast #PortlandPets
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Portland Animal Welfare Team  (PAW Team)
Website: https://www.pawteam.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/portlandanimalwelfareteam
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/paw_teampdx
🌟 Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Rewilding Resilience: Kristen McNab of Rewild Refuge Farm Sanctuary

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Kristen McNab, founder and executive director of Rewild Refuge Farm Sanctuary in Kingston, WA.
Kristen shares the heartfelt journey of building a sanctuary from the ground up — from rescuing her horse Charlie, who was once malnourished and shut down, to creating a refuge where animals and people alike can heal and reconnect. She opens up about the realities of running a sanctuary while working full-time, the emotional and physical toll of rescue work, and the deep gratitude that keeps her going.
We also discuss the darker side of the horse industry, the importance of doing research before donating, and the inspiring resilience of animals like Morty the pig — whose story of trauma and slow, steady healing reminds us of the power of patience and compassion.
A conversation for anyone who believes in second chances — for animals, for people, and for the call to do good in the world.
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
 
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Rewild Rescue Farm Sanctuary
Website: https://www.rewildrefuge.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rewildrefuge
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/rewildrefugefarmsanctuary
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rewildrefuge?lang=en
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/rewildrefugesanctuary
 
🌟 Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

The Heart Behind the Process: How Structure Fuels Compassion at Saving Great Animals

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Jacintha Sayed, Director of Saving Great Animals, a Seattle-based rescue that has helped more than 8,500 dogs find their forever homes since 2007.
Jacintha shares how she turned a one-time foster experience into a lifelong calling—bringing her corporate expertise in systems and processes into the rescue world to build an organization that’s as effective as it is compassionate.
She opens up about the real challenges facing rescues today—from burnout and difficult conversations to the emotional toll of an overburdened system. Through it all, Jacintha remains grounded in her purpose, embodying resilience through calm leadership, collaboration, and hope.
Whether you’re part of the rescue community or simply love hearing stories of people living out their purpose, this conversation is a reminder that structure and heart can coexist—and that resilience often shows up quietly, in those who keep showing up day after day.
Listen in for an honest, heartfelt look at what it takes to lead with both courage and compassion in animal rescue.
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Saving Great Animals
Website:  https://savinggreatanimals.org/
Facebood: https://www.facebook.com/SGADogRescue/
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/savinggreatanimals/
YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvHI6XB9gzicgQtieOf9PWg
🌟 Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Justice, Grit, and Whiskers: The Story of Spooky Whiskers Rescue

Firefighter. EMT. Psychic medium. Cat rescuer.
Crystal Wedra wears many hats — but the common thread through them all is her unshakable belief in justice and standing up for those who can’t speak for themselves.
As the founder of Spooky Whiskers Rescue, Crystal has spent the past year diving headfirst into the world of feral cat rescue, determined to do more than temporary fixes. Her mission: to give every cat a chance at a safe, loving home — not just survival on the streets.
In this candid conversation, Crystal shares how her boldness and resilience fuel her mission, what she’s learned about flexibility and resourcefulness in rescue work, and how her recent autism and ADHD diagnoses have helped her better understand herself and her limits.
It’s a story about grit, growth, and finding the courage to keep showing up — for yourself and for those who need you most.
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
🔗 Featured Rescue:
SPOOKY WHISKERS RESCUE
PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/spookywhiskersrescue
INSTAGRAM: @spookywhiskersrescue
DONATION OPTIONS: Amazon.com, Spooky Whiskers Rescue | Rock Hill, SC | Chewy, Paypal, Venmo | Crystal Wedra
MERCH: Discover Our Exclusive Range at Spooky Whiskers Merch
🌟 Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Sustaining Compassion: Kate Tsyrklevich on Self-Care and Sanctuary Life

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we talk with Kate Tsyrklevich, co-founder of Heartwood Haven Animal Sanctuary, about the challenges and rewards of running a farm animal rescue. Kate opens up about the importance of founders taking time away from their rescues and building systems that allow sustainability—not just for the animals, but for themselves.
She shares candid insights into the two kinds of trauma many rescuers face: witnessing animals near death or severely neglected, and navigating the unkind words of people online. Despite these hardships, Kate’s dedication, resilience, and self-care practices keep her grounded in her mission.
At Heartwood Haven, Kate and her team focus on rescuing farm animals—an often overlooked group in the rescue world—because, as she reminds us, these animals deserve safety, compassion, and the chance to thrive. 
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Heartwood Haven Farm Animal Rescue & Sanctuary
Heartwood Haven FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/heartwoodhaven/
Heartwood Haven IG: https://www.instagram.com/heartwoodhaven/
Heartwood Haven MAIN WEBSITE: https://heartwoodhaven.org/
🌟 Links + Resources:
• Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: https://www.animalrescuehub.org 
• Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
 
🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Rock On, Rescue On — A Conversation with Jme Thomas of Motley Zoo Animal Rescue

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Jme Thomas, the dynamic and passionate founder of Motley Zoo Animal Rescue based in Monroe, Washington.
Jme brings both grit and heart to her work—balancing fierce advocacy for animal welfare with the realities of leading a foster-based, volunteer-powered rescue. She shares openly about the importance of boundaries, the necessity of loving both people and animals, and how compassion—even when tested—remains central to her mission.
We talk about:
Prioritizing quality of care over quantity
Creating sustainable leadership in animal rescue
Cultivating compassion in the face of frustration
Why people are the key to saving animals
The creative way Jme brought rescue animals into the spotlight—literally—by connecting them with touring musical acts
Whether you're a longtime rescuer, a new foster, or someone passionate about the wellbeing of animals and those who care for them, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, grounded, and ready to rock.
🐾 Rock on. Rescue on.
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning:Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
 
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Motley Zoo Animal Rescue
Motley Zoo Animal Rescue FACEBOOKMotley Zoo Animal Rescue IGMotley Zoo Animal Rescue MAIN WEBSITE
Motley Zoo Merch Link! 
🌟 Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: https://www.animalrescuehub.org/
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Turning Suffering into Sanctuary with Todd Friedman of Arthur's Acres Animal Sancturary

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Todd Friedman, the deeply compassionate founder of Arthur’s Acres Animal Sanctuary. Todd shares his journey from feeling a lack of purpose in life to discovering a calling that would transform not only his world, but the lives of countless pigs and other animals.
What began as a reluctant step onto a rundown property has, through four years of care and determination, become a thriving sanctuary built on love and advocacy. Todd’s mission is simple yet profound: to amplify the voices of pigs and show the world their worth, intelligence, and capacity for connection.
He tells the moving story of Katniss, a 600-pound pig who was paralyzed and neglected, and how, against all odds, his devotion brought her back to walking after months of tireless work. Through these stories, Todd reveals how resilience, compassion, and purpose intertwine — even when exhaustion, criticism, and self-doubt weigh heavily.
This is a conversation about finding meaning, honoring animals’ lives, and the unshakable bond between a man and the pigs he calls family.
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide and mental health challenges related to trauma and high-stress caregiving roles, as well as references to animal suffering and death. Listener discretion is advised.
 
🔗 Featured Rescue: Arthur's Acres Animal Sanctuary
Arthur's Acres Animal Sanctuary FACEBOOK
Arthur's Acres Animal Sanctuary IG
Arthur's Acres Animal Sanctuary MAIN WEBSITE
Arthur's Acres Animal Sanctuary PATREON
Preferred donation link (Zeffy—so 100% goes directly to the animals): Zeffy Donation Form
 
🌟 Links + Resources:
• Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: https://animalrescuehub.org
• Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
 
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse