Welcome to United We Spay - the show dedicated to promoting affordable spay/neuter services across the USA and beyond. In each episode, we delve into the heart of a movement that's changing the lives of animals and communities for the better. Our mission is clear: build awareness, educate, and empower.
In this podcast, we'll explore the inspiring stories and voices that drive the spay/neuter movement, all while keeping our eyes on the bigger picture. Hosted by Stacy LeBaron, our team at United Spay Alliance is here to make a difference by tackling the root causes of overpopulation, ensuring that every animal has the chance for a better life. Join us as we embark on a journey to address the problems and pain points faced by grassroots rescue and shelter workers, and the general public.
We'll answer the three most common questions we receive, discuss the challenges of finding low-cost spay/neuter services, and explore strategies for recruiting more veterinarians to support these crucial efforts.
What truly irks us is when the animal welfare space fixates on the symptoms of overpopulation, rather than focusing on prevention through spay/neuter. We believe it's time to change the conversation.
Moreover, it breaks our hearts to witness the animal welfare landscape taking steps backward, reverting to a time before the spay/neuter movement's progress.
We're committed to ensuring that history does not repeat itself. The problem we aim to solve is clear: there are too few people with access to affordable spay/neuter services, leading to unwanted litters, overcrowded shelters, and other avoidable consequences. Our podcast seeks to be a platform for solutions, education, and empowerment.
We're honored to serve our best stakeholders, the dedicated individuals actively involved in grassroots rescue and shelter work. We understand that the general public often remains unaware of the scale and impact of the current veterinary shortage, as well as the challenges in finding affordable spay/neuter services. We're here to bridge that knowledge gap.
So, join us on United We Spay where we're all about making a difference, spreading knowledge, and building a stronger, more compassionate world for animals. Together, we can put prevention at the forefront and shine a spotlight on the importance of spay/neuter in the animal welfare space.
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026: Full Circle TNR: Building Sustainable, Community-Led Cat Care with Adelle Louise
Épisode 26
jeudi 1 janvier 2026 • Durée 30:33
In this powerful episode of United We Spay, host Stacy LeBaron talks with Adelle Louise—Trap-Neuter-Return specialist, feral cat advocate, and Director of @travelanimalrescue—about what it truly means to build a sustainable, community-led cat care program.
After launching her work in the Global South, Adelle recognized that meaningful impact required more than good intentions: it demanded equipment, training, and—most of all—collaboration. Her journey has since led her to co-create programs across six countries and 13 cities, helping sterilize over 1,500 cats.
Adelle introduces listeners to the philosophy of "full circle TNR," a method that ensures every cat in a colony—from dominant toms to young kittens—receives care. Alongside veterinary access challenges and emotional fatigue, she explores the importance of local empowerment and strategic targeting to break the cycle of suffering.
Plus, don't miss her story about a sardine-covered kitten, a game-changing government partner, and a courtyard filled with compassion.
In this episode you will hear:
What "full circle TNR" really means and why it matters
The limitations of DIY and pest-control traps in international rescue
Why empowering local partners builds lasting change
How to prevent burnout with strategic, boundary-driven rescue
The role of municipal partnerships in scaling TNVR
025: Behind the Mic with Stacy LeBaron on Cats, Clinics, and Burnout
Épisode 25
jeudi 4 décembre 2025 • Durée 39:16
In this special episode of United We Spay, the mic flips as longtime host Stacy LeBaron takes the guest seat for the first time. Interviewed by United Spay Alliance's Administrative Director Brianna Lovell Myers, Stacy reflects on her 30+ years in animal welfare, her unexpected entry into the world of trap-neuter-return (TNR), and the pivotal moments that shaped her mission to prevent animal suffering through spay/neuter advocacy.
Stacy shares the story that sparked her passion for accessible spay/neuter — a heartbreaking encounter with dozens of suffering kittens in a New Hampshire dumpster — and how that moment led to decades of impactful work, including founding the Community Cats Podcast, launching multiple mobile clinics, and helping over 320 grassroots organizations through grant programs.
From developing innovative tools like the Community Cat Calculator to opening affordable care clinics that reject economic euthanasia, Stacy breaks down the strategies she believes are essential to building sustainable solutions in a post-pandemic world.
This heartfelt and practical conversation covers burnout, mentorship, incremental veterinary care, and the value of strategic collaboration. Whether you're new to animal advocacy or a seasoned TNR veteran, Stacy's insights offer both inspiration and actionable guidance to create change in your own community.
In this episode you will hear:
The origin story behind Stacy's spay/neuter activism
How to build local veterinary capacity without burning out
Sustainable models for low-cost clinics that really work
The importance of collaboration over competition in rescue work
A vision for a more humane world for all community cats
016: Advancing Spay/Neuter: Inside United Spay Alliance's High-Quality, High-Volume Wet Labs with Brianna Lovell Myers
Épisode 16
jeudi 6 mars 2025 • Durée 30:10
On this episode of United We Spay, Stacy welcomes Brianna Lovell Myers, the Administrative Director of the United Spay Alliance. Brianna shares her compelling journey and deep passion for promoting accessible spay-neuter services.
Growing up in a low-income household, Brianna witnessed firsthand the challenges of managing cat overpopulation without affordable spay-neuter options. These personal experiences have fueled her commitment to finding better solutions for animal welfare. We explore the various initiatives she leads, such as the Wet Lab Program, which provides crucial hands-on training for veterinarians in high-quality, high-volume spay-neuter techniques.
Stacy and Brianna explore the intricacies of the Wet Lab Program, a hands-on veterinary training initiative focused on enhancing spay-neuter skills. The program is designed to address the shortage of available appointments and skilled surgeons by providing veterinarians from diverse backgrounds, including those in private practices, with the opportunity to learn and perform surgeries in a supportive environment. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the confidence boost and skill enhancement it provides. The program is a collaborative effort, and we invite more veterinarians to get involved and enhance their surgical capabilities.
We also discuss the logistical and supportive aspects of running a successful high-volume spay-neuter clinic. Each element is vital, from coordinating with shelters and rescues to ensure a steady flow of animals to setting up clinic spaces and securing financial and organizational support. We underscore the importance of experienced veterinary technicians and the financial assistance available, such as continuing education credits. Furthermore, we explore the United Spay Alliance's mission to expand spay-neuter access and support across states, emphasizing collaborative efforts, a comprehensive directory of resources, and innovative programs like the vet shortage task force.
Join us as we highlight the vital importance of prevention in animal welfare and share upcoming events designed to engage and educate.
In this episode, you will hear:
015: Advancing Veterinary Skills in Mexico: The Challenges of Specialization and Continuing Education with Blayra Maldonado Cabrera
Épisode 15
jeudi 6 février 2025 • Durée 36:36
On this episode of United We Spay, Dr. Blayra Maldonado Cabrera, a dedicated veterinarian from Mexico, shares her life-changing experiences in the spay-neuter services world.
Dr. Maldonado's commitment to animal welfare blossomed through her work with a non-profit in Hermosillo and as a professor at the University of the Valley of Mexico. Her story powerfully demonstrates the impact of education and action in controlling canine and feline populations and improving public health. She illuminates the importance of these initiatives in creating healthier communities and invites listeners to join a compassionate movement to make a global impact on animal welfare.
Explore the collaborative efforts driving the success of community-based spay-neuter campaigns. We highlight the educational benefits for veterinary students, the invaluable support from institutions such as the Animal Control Institute, and the growing trend of affordable surgeries offered by private practice vets. Dr. Maldonado discusses the role of organizations like Spay Mexico in training local vets and spreading essential skills across borders.
This episode underscores the importance of uniting diverse fields to enhance health outcomes for both animals and people by fostering partnerships and embracing a One Health approach.
In this episode, you will hear:
Dr. Blayra Maldonado Cabrera's journey and commitment to global spay-neuter initiatives
The role of education in controlling animal populations and improving public health
Involvement of veterinary students in community-based campaigns for hands-on learning
Collaborative efforts and partnerships in promoting One Health across various fields
The impact of Spay Mexico in training and empowering local vets with essential surgical skills
The importance of affordable spay-neuter services and community outreach
Encouragement for global collaboration and contributions to animal welfare initiatives
Resources from this Episode
014: Policy and Progress: Expanding Spay/Neuter Access Through Legislative Advocacy with Loren Breen
Épisode 14
jeudi 2 janvier 2025 • Durée 24:38
On this episode of United We Spay, Loren Breen, the Director of Policy, Research, and Government Affairs at the Animal Policy Group, joins Stacy to unpack the significant rise in spay-neuter legislative activity—from a mere 100 bills in 2017 to over 2300 in recent years.
We navigate the landscape of spay-neuter laws, exploring prohibitive bills and creative tax initiatives like California's tax designation for euthanasia prevention and Louisiana's innovative pet stamp program. Despite many bills facing obstacles, Loren shares strategic approaches to propel these initiatives forward, including the critical role of veterinarians and collaboration with state associations.
Addressing the pressing veterinary staffing shortage, we examine legislative responses reshaping the roles of veterinary technicians and mid-level professionals. California's pioneering bill allowing registered veterinary technicians to conduct neuter surgeries under supervision might set a precedent nationwide, while telemedicine is gaining traction in states like Florida, potentially easing staffing woes. We also widen our gaze to global spay-neuter advocacy efforts, encouraging our listeners to engage with resources offered by the United Spay Alliance.
Stay informed each month as we share meaningful conversations to advance animal welfare globally.
In this episode, you will hear:
A surge in spay-neuter legislation, from 100 bills in 2017 to over 2300 recently
California's euthanasia prevention tax and Louisiana's pet stamp program
Veterinary staffing shortage solutions, including expanded roles for vet techs and telemedicine innovations
California's bill for RVTs to perform neuter surgeries under supervision
Efforts by United Spay Alliance and resources for engagement
Importance of collaboration and veterinarians and state associations in legislative advocacy
Mid-level professional roles and veterinary loan repayment discussions
Resources from this Episode
United Spay Alliance:
013: Ohio Animal Advocates' Journey with Vicki Deisner & Dan Spehar
Épisode 13
jeudi 5 décembre 2024 • Durée 29:12
What if a simple procedure could transform your community's future of animal welfare?
On this episode of United We Spay, Vicki Deisner from Ohio Animal Advocates and community cat management expert Dan Spehar address this question through the lens of affordable spay-neuter services. Their conversation with Stacy underscores these initiatives' critical role in managing overpopulation and fostering collaboration between citizens and local governments. Dan offers compelling insights into the humane effectiveness of trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, highlighting the Together Initiative for Ohio's Community Cats as a successful model for stakeholder empowerment and local action.
Explore the robust and impactful efforts of Ohio Animal Advocates in partnership with the United Spay Alliance as Vicki sheds light on the challenges and solutions in statewide animal welfare. From the complexities of reporting animal cruelty to the vital need for accessible spay-neuter services for larger breeds, the conversation examines real-world solutions, like Cheri Storms' program in Indiana and the AlterClinic led by Laura Groves in Ohio. These initiatives exemplify successful tri-state collaboration and expansion of veterinary capacity across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky during challenging times.
Hear stories of community empowerment and creative problem-solving, showcasing how individuals driven by passion can make a significant impact, even without prior experience or a substantial budget. Highlighting projects like Sunday spay-neuter clinics in Massachusetts and Riggi Rescue's efforts in New London, Ohio, we discuss practical strategies and resources available for those eager to start similar initiatives.
With tools like the Ohio Spay-Neuter Connection page, community members are equipped to manage local cat populations sustainably and compassionately, demonstrating that change is possible with the right approach and resources.
In this episode, you will hear:
Exploration of affordable spay-neuter services' role in tackling animal overpopulation, with insights from Vicki Deisner and Dan Spehar
The humane trap-neuter-return (TNR) method for managing community cats and its importance
012: A Conversation with Dr. Jeff Young, Pioneer in High-Volume, High-Quality Spay/Neuter
Épisode 12
jeudi 7 novembre 2024 • Durée 24:34
Is there a humane way to tackle the daunting issue of animal overpopulation?
On this episode of United We Spay, renowned veterinarian Dr. Jeff Young believes there is and is on a mission to prove it. Dr. Young reveals how his experiences in vet school ignited a lifelong commitment to high-volume, low-cost spay-neuter services, leading to the creation of Planned Pethood Plus and its international arm. His inspiring journey is filled with pivotal moments that underscore the transformative power of early-age neutering and mobile vet services. Discover how his dedication has not only trained veterinarians worldwide but has also profoundly impacted reducing animal suffering on a global scale.
We delve into the intricate challenges of pet overpopulation and the barriers that prevent effective solutions. Economic hurdles, particularly in low-income and rural communities, underscore the pressing need for accessible veterinary care. Dr. Young doesn't shy away from discussing the emotional toll of economic euthanasia on veterinarians and the responsibility of major nonprofits to address financial constraints.
But it's not just veterinarians leading the charge. Non-veterinarians and community activists play a crucial role in advancing spay-neuter advocacy. Through successful collaborations, they spotlight the necessity of spay-neuter efforts as the foundation for systemic change, aiming to support pet owners and veterinary professionals in this vital mission.
In this episode, you will hear:
Dr. Jeff Young's journey from veterinary student to global spay-neuter advocate
Establishment of Planned Pethood Plus and Planned Pethood International to address pet overpopulation
Challenges in pet overpopulation, including financial and societal barriers
Role of non-veterinarians and community activists in spay-neuter advocacy
Collaboration between veterinarians and activists to implement mobile clinics and TNR programs
Economic and emotional challenges veterinarians face due to rising costs and economic euthanasia
Importance of prioritizing spay-neuter efforts for systemic change in animal welfare
011: Empowering Communities: The Long Island Cat Project with Dr. Gay Senk
Épisode 11
jeudi 3 octobre 2024 • Durée 28:38
Affordable spay-neuter services are the unsung heroes in the battle against feline overpopulation.
On this episode of United We Spay, Stacy welcomes Dr. Gay Senk, a feral cat surgeon from the Farmingdale Dog and Cat Clinic, who shares her extraordinary journey from equine practice to becoming a fervent advocate for spay-neuter initiatives. Dr. Senk recounts her awakening to the feral cat crisis, her self-driven education through scientific research and TNR resources, and her impactful work with Last Hope Inc. She delves into founding the Long Island Cat Project and promoting TNR programs within Nassau County municipal shelters, highlighting her commitment to mentoring the next generation of veterinary professionals.
We also tackle a pressing issue: the urgent need for affordable spay-neuter services to address cat overpopulation. Hear the challenges Dr. Senk faces, including resistance from traditional veterinary practices and the long waiting lists at affordable clinics. Learn about innovative solutions like a centralized booking system for veterinary appointments and the work of organizations such as the United Spay Alliance in pushing for high-volume, high-quality spay-neuter techniques.
Dr. Senk's story is a testament to the power of education and collaboration in creating a compassionate world for all animals.
In this episode, you will hear:
Dr. Gay Senk's transition from equine practice to feline spay-neuter advocacy
Founding of the Long Island Cat Project and promotion of TNR practices
Challenges and resistance from traditional veterinary practices towards low-cost services
The importance of affordable spay-neuter services in reducing feline overpopulation
Educating municipal leaders and communities on humane solutions like TNR
The role of United Spay Alliance in promoting high-volume, high-quality spay-neuter techniques
Dr. Senk's mentorship and the broader impact of collaborative efforts in the veterinary community
Resources from this Episode
010: Recruiting and Retention: The Twin Challenges of the Veterinary Profession with Stacy Pursell
Épisode 10
jeudi 5 septembre 2024 • Durée 01:18:58
Unlock the secrets to overcoming the veterinary workforce shortage with insights from Stacy's expert guest, Stacy Pursell, founder and CEO of the Vet Recruiter.
In this episode of United We Spay, we address the growing demand for veterinarians and the factors contributing to stress and burnout among current staff. Stacy shares her wealth of knowledge on the strategic, talent-centric solutions needed to secure the future of veterinary care.
Discover innovative strategies employers are using to attract and retain veterinarians, especially in underserved areas. From student loan repayment programs to enticing relocation packages and signing bonuses, learn how these tools are becoming essential in today's competitive market. We also delve into the changing dynamics of hiring, emphasizing the importance of being flexible, urgent, and agile and how a robust employer brand can make all the difference.
Get practical advice on effective employee retention strategies that begin the moment a candidate accepts an offer. Stacy Pursell discusses the power of exceptional onboarding experiences in mitigating early departures and the significance of maintaining strong communication. We also explore what it takes to become an employer of choice, from creating a positive workplace culture to offering competitive compensation.
This episode is brimming with insights to help you navigate the challenges of recruiting and retaining top veterinary talent.
In this episode, you will hear:
The pressing shortage of veterinarians, projected job openings, and factors contributing to stress and burnout among current staff
Innovative employer tactics, including student loan repayment programs, relocation packages, and signing bonuses, particularly in underserved areas
The importance of being flexible, urgent, and agile in hiring processes
Building a strong employer brand to attract top candidates
Effective retention strategies, starting from onboarding, addressing counteroffers, and maintaining strong communication to mitigate early departures
Creating a positive workplace culture and offering competitive compensation to become an employer of choice
009: Empowering Veterinarians: Mastering High-Quality Spay Neuter Procedures with Dr. Becky Morrow
Épisode 9
jeudi 1 août 2024 • Durée 26:43
What if the key to transforming animal welfare was hidden in the precision and efficiency of high-volume spay-neuter services?
On this episode of United We Spay, Stacy sits down with Dr. Becky Morrow, a shelter veterinarian, and professor, who shares her incredible journey from aspiring wildlife vet to founding Frankie's Friends Cat Rescue. Dr. Morrow opens up about her motivations and the hurdles she overcame in setting up a clinic dedicated to rescuing cats from cruelty cases. She passionately discusses how targeted trap-neuter-return programs save lives and significantly improve community health. We also debunk misconceptions about high-volume spay-neuter techniques, revealing their indispensable role in tackling overpopulation and reducing animal suffering.
We also explore the innovative, collaborative veterinary system Dr. Morrow helped implement, which allows veterinarians from various locations to work together seamlessly. Learn about the online courses and hands-on clinic days designed to enhance veterinary skills and support public health initiatives. We touch on the urgent issue of burnout among veterinary professionals and how support from organizational boards can alleviate stress in nonprofit clinics. Discover the benefits of integrating high-volume spay-neuter practices in private clinics and the importance of spaying and neutering cats by five months old.
Tune in for a conversation highlighting the power of high-quality spay-neuter services in animal welfare and public health.
In this episode, you will hear:
Dr. Becky Morrow's journey from aspiring wildlife vet to founding Frankie's Friends Cat Rescue
The importance and impact of high-volume spay-neuter services on animal welfare and community health
Debunking myths and misconceptions about high-volume spay-neuter techniques
Innovations in collaborative veterinary systems for improved efficiency and skill development
Addressing burnout among veterinary professionals
The role of supportive organizational boards
The benefits of integrating high-volume spay-neuter practices in private clinics
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If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
Ohio Animal Advocates' partnership with the United States Alliance and their statewide initiatives during the pandemic
Success stories from for-profit spay-neuter clinics and community events showcasing innovative solutions for rural areas
The Together Initiative for Ohio's Community Cats and its impact on local animal welfare efforts
Collaborative efforts across Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, focusing on expanding veterinary capacity and community partnerships
Case studies of successful community cat management programs, including Riggi Rescue and AlterClinic's mass trapping events
We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.
Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
The role of tangible rewards, stress reduction, and competitive pay in boosting employee loyalty and retention
Specific strategies for hiring veterinarians in nonprofit settings, emphasizing mission alignment and understanding the implications of frequent job changes
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
An emphasis on spaying and neutering cats by five months old to combat overpopulation
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Episode Credits
If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.
