Tails of Resilience

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

Resilience Through a Social Work Lens: At the Intersection of People and Pets with Kelly Bremken

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Kelly Bremken, the first Veterinary Social Worker at Oregon Humane Society.
Kelly is redefining what it means to see the humane society as a true social service, supporting people in countless ways while strengthening partnerships across the community. She shares how a trauma-informed approach transforms the question from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What has happened to you?”—a shift that empowers both her team and the people they serve to move forward with greater compassion and understanding.
We talk about how judgment can be a signal of burnout and compassion fatigue, and how paying attention to these signs can guide healthier, more sustainable practices. Kelly also reflects on the role of community and big-picture perspective in building resilience, reminding us that we’re never alone in this work.
This is a conversation about curiosity, compassion, and the power of reimagining how we care for both animals and people.
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode may contain themes of animal suffering including abuse and death, as well as themes of mental health that could include reference to suicide.
🔗Featured Rescue: Oregon Humane Society
Oregon Humane Society FACEBOOK
Oregon Humane Society IG
Oregon Humane Society MAIN WEBSITE
Resource(s) Referenced: Free Trauma-informed & culturally safe training: https://vancouverhumanesociety.bc.ca/trauma-informed-training/
🌟 Links/Sponsors
Learn more about the  Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Healing, Resilience, and Rescue: Lisa Beggio’s Story Behind the Shelter Doors

In this powerful episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Lisa Beggio, Executive Director of Columbia Humane Society, whose nearly three decades in animal welfare have been defined by compassion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to both animals and the people who care for them.
Lisa opens up about the realities of rescue work, including her own experience of surviving a horrific dog attack that left her physically and mentally sidelined for over 80 days. With honesty and courage, she shares how therapy, a strong support network, and a deep belief in her mission have helped her return to the work she loves—despite ongoing struggles with anxiety.
We talk about her advocacy for mental health in the rescue community, the importance of compassion fatigue training, and the legacy she hopes to leave. She also shares the touching story of a dog she adopted who defied the odds and lived a joyful 15 years, as well as valuable insights for anyone considering stepping into rescue work or supporting it from the sidelines.
🐾 This is an episode about resilience, empathy, and the deep bonds that make the challenges of rescue worth every moment.
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning:This episode may contain themes of animal suffering including abuse and death, as well as themes of mental health that could include reference to suicide.
 
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Columbia Humane Society- St. Helens, Oregon
Columbia Humane Society FACEBOOKColumbia Humane Society IGColumbia Humane Society MAIN WEBSITE
 
🌟 Sponsor
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

Small but Mighty: CHEW Dog Rescue’s Foster-Powered Mission with Gloria Stewart

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we talk with Gloria Stewart of CHEW Dog Rescue—that’s Canine Health Education and Welfare—an all-volunteer, foster-based rescue dedicated to saving dogs and setting them up for the best possible second chance.
Gloria opens up about the misconceptions people have about rescues and dog ownership, and why education is central to their mission. She explains how fostering isn’t just a temporary home—it’s an opportunity to learn about each dog’s needs, personality, and quirks so they can be matched with the right human.
We discuss the boundaries rescues must set with potential adopters, including why what someone thinks they want may not be the best fit for them—or the dog. Gloria also shares how community support, self-care between placements, and heartwarming updates from adopters keep her going.
One of her most impactful experiences? Her very first pregnant foster—a journey that inspired her to take on more pregnant pups and newborn litters, giving them all a chance at a bright future.
🐶 Whether you’ve fostered before, are considering it, or just want to hear how a small but mighty rescue is making a big impact, this conversation will inspire you to see the ripple effect one home can make.
#TailsofResilience #CHEWDogRescue #FosterDogs #RescueDogLove #AdoptDontShop #AnimalRescueHub #ZodiPaws
 
⚠️ Trigger Warning:This episode may contain themes of animal suffering including abuse and death, as well as themes of mental health that could include reference to suicide.
 
🔗 Featured Rescue:
CHEW Dog Rescue
CHEW Dog Rescue FACEBOOKCHEW Dog Rescue IGCHEW Dog Rescue WEBSITE
🌟 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

Rachel Davis of Lily’s Pad Rescue on Love, Loss & Saving Special Bulldogs

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Rachel Davis, founder of Lily’s Pad Rescue — an organization dedicated to giving medically challenged bulldogs a second chance at life.
Rachel opens up about the personal and emotional demands of rescue work, including how the sudden, devastating loss of her sister left her questioning if she had anything left to give. With the unwavering support of her family and the rescue/foster community, she found the strength to keep showing up for the dogs who needed her most.
A champion for mental health therapy, Rachel shares how creating space for herself has been essential to sustaining her work. She also reminds listeners that compassion for rescuers matters — that most organizations are volunteer-based, run by people who also have jobs outside of rescue. She addresses the common perception that rescues are “always asking for money,” explaining that, in truth, a large part of their work is fundraising to cover the extensive costs of care, especially for complicated medical cases.
Rachel shines a light on the heartwarming, transformative side of rescuing bulldogs with medical complexities — and why, with the right support and education, caring for them is not only possible but profoundly rewarding.
This is a conversation about grief, resilience, compassion, and the extraordinary impact of saying “yes” to the dogs who need it most. 

Feathers and Fortitude: One Man’s Lifelong Rescue Mission: Chris Driggins of Parrots for Patriots

In this heartfelt episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Chris Driggins, founder of Parrots for Patriots, a nonprofit connecting orphaned parrots with veterans seeking healing and companionship.
With decades of experience in bird rescue, Chris is a wealth of knowledge about parrots and exotic birds. He takes great care in placing each parrot, emphasizing how important education is before stepping into the world of parrot ownership. These birds are deeply intelligent, delicate, and emotionally complex—and Chris believes that understanding their needs is key to building a lasting bond.
He walks us through his mindful daily routines, shares touching stories of how parrots and veterans help each other heal, and reflects on how his own resilience stems from a meaningful commitment to the mission. Chris also opens up about the challenge of self-care and the value of having a supportive team that allows him moments of rest—often in the hot tub with good music in the background.
This episode explores what it means to show up fully for another life—whether feathered or human—and how commitment can become a source of healing and strength.
🎧 catch the full video on Tails of Resilience - YouTube.🔗 Parrots for Patriots: https://parrotsforpatriots.org/ 
Birdman's Exotic Bird Sanctuary – Sanctuary Birds
Paypal: Donate
Upcoming Bird Toy Shop: https://p4ptoys.org
 
🌟 Additional Links + Resources:
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
🎶 Music credit: Uppbeat – https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Hooked on Hope: Serena’s Journey from Volunteer to Voice for the Voiceless

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we meet Serena Jewell, a lifelong advocate for animals and a pillar of strength at Grant County Animal Outreach. Serena’s story began in middle school with a volunteer shift that changed the course of her life—and she’s been showing up for animals ever since. From volunteer to board member to full-time staff, Serena shares what it means to rise again and again, even in the face of tragedy. Within her first month of employment, she faced an unthinkable animal emergency—one that tested her spirit but ultimately proved her strength. We talk about the pressure of always being “on,” the guilt that comes with stepping away, and how her love for fishing helps her stay grounded and present. Serena reminds us that resilience isn’t about never falling—it’s about always getting back up. And most importantly, it’s about creating the mindset that you can. This is a story about grit, growth, and grace under pressure—perfect for anyone who has ever given their heart to a cause and wondered if it was enough.
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode may contain themes of animal suffering including abuse and death, as well as themes of mental health that could include reference to suicide.
🔗 Featured Rescue:
Grant County Animal Outreach
6725 Randolph Rd NE, Moses Lake, WA 98837
Facebook www.facebook.com/GrantCountyAnimalOutreach
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@gcao.official
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the.gcao
PAYPAL: https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=K9LAL4Q5RGP7A
🌟 Links + Resources:
• Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: https://animalrescuehub.org
• Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com 
 
🎵 Music from #Uppbeat https://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse

Inside the Cat Mafia with PDX Cat Trapper: TNR, Compassion Fatigue, and the Unseen Heroes of Feral Cat Rescue

In this episode of Tails of Resilience, we sit down with Karen Jealous, founder of PDX Cat Trapper, and her right-hand powerhouse Emily Richardson—an RN for veterans and fierce advocate for both cats and people. Together, they run a 100% volunteer-powered TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) organization dedicated to stopping the cycle of uncontrolled community cat breeding in Portland.
Through raw and heartfelt conversation, Karen and Emily share the gritty realities of feral cat rescue—from sleepless nights to the emotional toll of confronting overpopulation and suffering head-on. They talk openly about compassion fatigue, the challenge of sustainable self-care, and how staying rooted in their mission keeps them going when things get overwhelming.
And yes, once you're in the "cat mafia," there's no getting out.
Whether you're a cat lover, a rescue volunteer, or simply someone who admires grassroots heroism, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to fight for the voiceless—tails, claws, and all.
⚠️ Trigger Warning:This episode contains discussions of  mental health challenges and animal suffering. Listener discretion is advised.
 
🔗 Featured Rescue:
PDX CAT TRAPPER
PDX CAT TRAPPER FACEBOOKPDX CAT TRAPPER IGPDX CAT TRAPPER MAIN WEBSITE
 
🌟 Links + Resources:
If you have a feral cat(s) you need help and you are in the Oregon please reach out to Feral Cat Coalition of Oregon first. 
Learn more about the Animal Rescue Hub: animalrescuehub.org
Explore dog astrology + ZodiPaws books: https://zodipaws.com
use code "Rescue10" for 10% off your first order. 
🎵 Music from #Uppbeathttps://uppbeat.io/t/hemlock/timelapse