Critters and Cultures

This is Part 2 of our holiday special! Join Dr. Azalia Boyd, veterinarian and host of the Critters and Cultures podcast, as she heads to SuperZoo, the largest pet retail conference in the nation, to connect with amazing brands.

In this episode, Dr. Boyd interviews diverse entrepreneurs who are leading the way in the pet care industry, sharing their purpose, struggles, and pain points.

In this video, you will meet:

Brandon Baxter, owner of Palms 'N Paws Canine Massage

https://palmsnpaws.com/

https://www.instagram.com/palmsnpaws_

Juanita Harris: Discover Juanita's journey in the pet industry, starting from a bather and brusher at PetSmart to salon ownership and then to a marketing job with Ryan's Pet Supplies. Monita specializes in social media management, content marketing, and digital marketing for pets and people. She emphasizes the importance of personalized marketing that reflects the diversity of clients.

Dre, owner of The Dre Creations

https://www.instagram.com/thedrecreations/

https://linktr.ee/thedrecreationsllc 

The episode of Critters and Cultures is brought to you by Mattie's Fund, a family foundation that transforms animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity.

Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/

SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures

Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

The holiday season is here, and on this episode of "Critters and Cultures," host, Dr. Azalia Boyd, a veterinarian, is at Super Zoo, the largest pet retail conference in the nation, to highlight some of the best emerging pet brands. This episode offers inspiration from diverse entrepreneurs who are leading the way in the pet care industry.

Dr. Boyd interviews three different pet entrepreneurs:

Kedisha Clayborne - Francis & Bee's Pets

https://francisandbee.com/

https://www.instagram.com/francisandbeepets/

Ava from Ava's Pet Palace

https://avaspetpalace.com/

https://www.instagram.com/avaspetpalace/

Daedrien Leyva-Lynn - Spoiled Pets

https://shopspoiledpets.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/shopspoiledpets 

The episode of Critters and Cultures is brought to you by Mattie's Fund, a family foundation that transforms animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity.

Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/

SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures

Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

In this episode, we're in New York City's Queens neighborhood to speak with the amazing team from LIC Feral Feeders: Victoria Koulouris, Jannatul (Jan) Ahmed, and Raiana Khan.

Tune in as we dive into the vital work this organization is doing with community cats in Long Island City and the challenges they face, from gentrification to addressing different cultural perspectives on animal care.

This episode of Critters & Cultures is brought to you by:

Maddie's Fund: A family foundation working to transform animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity. Learn more at maddiesfund.org.

The BIPO and Animal Well-being Collective: A community for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color connected through care, work, and advocacy in the animal well-being space. Find support or get involved at bipacollective.com.

SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures

Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/

Meet Our Guests from LIC Feral Feeders:

Victoria Koulouris (IG @therealmisshitwinner)Co-founder of LIC Feral Feeders. A lifelong New Yorker with decades in Queens, she is involved in much of the Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) and rescue work across Long Island City. She brings "history, grit, and a deep love for her neighborhood and outdoor cats".

Jannatul (Jan) Ahmed (IG @janskittens)

The Director of Operations at LIC Feral Feeders. She is a Bengali Muslim New Yorker, born and raised in Astoria. Her journey began during the pandemic by fostering kittens. Jan advocates fiercely for the immigrant and diaspora communities in Queens, many of whom are being displaced by gentrification and rising costs.

Raiana khan (IG @queens.kitties)

A dedicated rescuer and Community Cat Coordinator with LIC Feral Feeders.Her hands-on TNR work, cultural perspective, and advocacy for outdoor cats bring a grounded voice to the conversation. Ryana, whose parents are from Bangladesh, shares how her background helps her connect with community members who may have different views on pet care.

LICFF Website: https://licferalfeeders.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/licferalfeeders/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/licferalfeeders

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@licferalfeeders

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

Dr. Azalia Boyd welcomes Rousseau Durocher, a Haitian-American Intake Supervisor at Broward County Animal Care, to discuss his journey and efforts in cultural repair and community outreach. Russo shares how he works to bridge the gap between animal services and the community, emphasizing respect for every customer.

Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Maddies Fund! The power of community and compassion in animal welfare.

Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/

This episode is also sponsored by the BIPOC and Animal Well-being Collective.

Go to https://www.bipoccollective.com/

SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures

Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/

About Rousseau Durocher

Russo Durocher is a Haitian-American animal welfare professional who currently serves as the Intake Supervisor at Broward County Animal Care. His journey in the industry began as a temporary staff member, and his career growth reflects resilience and cultural navigation.

Russo is committed to cultural repair, community outreach, and confronting the stigma surrounding animal services. His leadership style centers on staying motivated, encouraging his staff, and removing biases to ensure every customer is treated with respect and served with a "fresh start". Russo believes in "Collaboration over competition" and stresses the importance of public and private shelters aligning to be more effective.

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

About Dr. Patrick Kalenzi

Dr. Patrick Kenzi is a veterinarian, public speaker, and author whose life is a testament to resilience. Born in Uganda to Tutsi refugee parents who had fled the 1958 Rwandan genocide, his early life was shaped by tending cattle and dogs, experiences that formed a lifelong bond with animals.

After being the first in his family to attend and graduate from university, Dr. Kenzi moved to the United States to better support his family. Starting by delivering newspapers and working at a pet store, he worked his way to becoming a licensed veterinarian and now owns a successful multi-million dollar veterinary practice and grooming shop in Broomfield, Colorado.

Dr. Kenzi navigates life in the United States as a successful Black man, recognizing the echoes of tribalism and systemic injustice he experienced as a refugee in Uganda. He is a two-time TEDx speaker and an author, driven by a mission to honor the wisdom and legacy of his grandfather. For Dr. Kenzi, his greatest achievement is breaking generational curses and supporting the education and independence of his siblings and nieces.

Connect with Dr. Patrick Kalenzi: https://www.patrickkalenzi.com/ https://www.rockcreekvet.com/

https://www.tearsrundry.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-kalenzi-93aba018/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrick.kalenzi/

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

In this episode of "Critters and Cultures," the Dr. Azalia Boyd speaks with Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson, the "Critter Fixers," two Black veterinarians from the South who bring with them the legacy of Tuskegee University. They discuss their experience balancing advanced medicine with providing accessible care in a rural community and the importance of visibility and cultural connection in shaping lives. The veterinarians share their journey, from meeting as undergrads at Fort Valley State to opening their practice in rural Georgia, and the challenges they faced with racism and starting a business. The conversation also highlights their dedication to mentorship through their "Vet for a Day" program and the enduring significance of Tuskegee University in producing the majority of the nation's Black veterinarians.

Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Maddies Fund! The power of community and compassion in animal welfare. Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/SUBSCRIBE & SHARE Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboydYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCulturesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-culturesWebsite: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/

About Dr. Terrence Ferguson

Dr. Terrence Ferguson, from Talbotton, GA, graduated from Fort Valley State and Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he was Class President and won the Pfizer Small Animal Award. In 1999, Dr. Ferguson and Dr. Vernard Hodges co-founded Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital in Middle Georgia. Critter Fixer quickly expanded, now running two state-of-the-art facilities and seeing over 20,000 patients annually. They star in the Nat Geo Wild show, “Critter Fixers: Country Vets.”

Dr. Ferguson is dedicated to community mentorship through athletics, co-founding the Peach County Youth Association and running Football Skill Development. He also leads a yearly college tour for athletes. In 2022, he started the T-Fergg One Yard at a Time Foundation with his son, TJ (an FSU football player), supporting youth fitness. He co-launched the nationwide “Vet for a Day” program in 2021 to attract students to the veterinary field.

In his spare time, Dr. Ferguson restores muscle cars, co-owns Critter Fixer Cattle Company (over 100 Black Angus), and operates a real estate company. He lives in Peach County with his wife, Kimberly, and their two children, including Terri Nicole, a current Tuskegee vet student.

About Dr. Vernard Hodges

Dr. Vernard Hodges, a fish biologist and veterinarian, is a graduate of Fort Valley State University and Tuskegee Vet Med. He co-founded and practices primarily at Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital in Bonaire, GA. Their success led to the Nat Geo Wild and Disney+ show, “Critter Fixers: Country Vets,” which aired its fifth season in 2023.

Dr. Hodges is a Renaissance man engaged in multiple enterprises. He co-operates the Critter Fixer Cattle Company and built a multi-million-dollar real estate business. His writing led to the bestselling book, “Bet on Yourself: From Zero to Millions.” In 2023, he launched Vetopia, a national conglomerate promoting ownership of PetSmart Veterinary Services franchised hospitals.

He actively gives back through the Dr. Vernard Hodges “It Takes A Village” Foundation (2011), teaching children business skills. The Foundation launched the successful, nationwide “Vet for a Day” program in 2021, encouraging young students to enter the veterinary profession. Dr. Hodges has won numerous awards for his business and service. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and enjoys spending time with his four dogs and his son, VJ, a Morehouse College sophomore.

In this episode of "Critters and Cultures," Dr. Azalia Boyd interviews Dr. Mia Cary, a consultant, speaker, and facilitator specializing in leadership, belonging, communication, and teamwork. Dr. Cary, also the CEO of Cary Consulting, discusses her work with Pride VMC, an organization dedicated to the LGBTQ+ veterinary community. She shares her personal journey, including her complicated relationship with the word "resilience" and why she chose to step down as CEO of Pride VMC. The conversation highlights the importance of land acknowledgments, building trust, and the power of affinity groups in fostering inclusive environments within the veterinary profession and beyond. Dr. Cary concludes by offering a cultural gift: "care, but don't always carry."

Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Maddies Fund! The power of community and compassion in animal welfare. 

Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/

ABOUT DR. MIA CARY

Dr. Mia Cary (she, hers) is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator specializing in leadership, belonging, communication, and teamwork. Her purpose is activating others to thrive and her professional experience includes leadership and education roles at PrideVMC, AVMA, NAVC, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Novartis Animal Health. Dr. Cary is the CEO and Change Agent for Cary (aka JoyMaker) Consulting, which she founded in 2019. She resides in Greensboro, NC,  and recognizes the Eno, Sappony, and Shakori nations on whose land she lives and works. 

CONNECT WITH MIA CARY

Website: https://pridevmc.org/sibling-organizations/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenvet23

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miacarydvm

REFERENCES

Purpose is Power: https://caryconsulting.com/purposeispower/

Veterinary Hope Foundation: https://veterinaryhope.org/

PrideVMC https://pridevmc.org/

5 Calls: https://5calls.org/

Solutions Book Club: https://padlet.com/zenvet23/solutionsbookclub

Indivisible: https://indivisible.org/

SUBSCRIBE & SHARE 

Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures

Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for a non profit animal welfare organization working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

00:00 Meet Dr. Mia Carey

04:25 The Power of Land Acknowledgments

11:12 My Personal Purpose

13:21 Rethinking Resilience

20:31 Pride VMC: A Community's Heart

27:27 VetMed Interconnected: Unity in Diversity

31:50 The Art of Building Trust

Discover how cultural heritage, innovative products, and dedicated advocacy are shaping the future of pet care and animal welfare! Dr. Azalia Boyd explores the latest innovations in pet care and the rich cultural diversity within the pet industry at SuperZoo, the nation's largest pet retail conference.

In this episode, Dr. Boyd interviews:

Mecca (from 00:59): The Next Wave Pitch Competition winner, whose business, Nkita, creates waterless grooming products for pets (and humans!) using moringa, an ingredient endemic to West Africa, reflecting his Nigerian roots.

Teju (from 07:16): Founder of Skona Petco, sharing her mission to bring traditional Indian food and Ayurvedic principles to the American pet industry, advocating for homemade diets and the benefits of ingredients like turmeric.

The Trap King Sterling Davis and Nathan the Cat Lady (from 12:59): This dynamic duo discusses their impactful work in cat rescue, their journey from unique backgrounds to becoming a "power couple" in animal welfare, and their international efforts to address cultural practices affecting animal well-being in places like Spain.

This episode is brought to you by:
Maddie's Fund: Championing an inclusive, innovative, and compassionate world for pets and people, transforming animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity. Learn more at ⁠https://www.maddiesfund.org/⁠

Elevate: A nonprofit dedicated to building equity and opportunity in the pet industry, creating space for Black and Indigenous people of color, entrepreneurs, and leaders to grow and thrive. Learn more at https://elevatepetpros.org/

SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Link Tree: ⁠http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd⁠

Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures

Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures⁠

Website: ⁠https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/⁠

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

In this episode of "Critters and Cultures," host Dr. Azalia Boyd speaks with Jaslyn Zarate, a first-generation Caribbean American clinical social worker. They explore the fascinating intersection of animal welfare and cultural diversity, emphasizing the healing power of the human-animal bond and trauma-informed care in veterinary medicine. Jaslyn shares her personal journey of resilience after a life-altering accident, how animals, including her service dog Luca, played a crucial role in her healing, and her work in integrating human and animal well-being. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and respecting diverse perspectives in advocating for empathy and respect in all interactions, particularly in the fields of social work and animal welfare.0:00 - Introduction to Critters and Cultures2:40 - Who is Jaslyn Zarate?6:47 - Jaslyn's Personal Journey and Trauma10:00 - The Healing Power of Animals13:13 - Jaslyn's Cultural Background18:42 - Social Work in Veterinary Medicine35:18 - Cultural Gift: "Big Up Yourself"This episode is proudly sponsored by Maddie's Fund! Championing a more inclusive, innovative, and compassionate world for pets and people. Go to ⁠https://www.maddiesfund.org/⁠SUBSCRIBE & SHARELink Tree: ⁠http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd⁠Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCulturesSpotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures⁠Website: ⁠https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/⁠About Jaslyn ZarateJaslyn Zarate is a first-generation Caribbean American and a passionate advocate for the healing power of the human-animal bond. Having completed her master's in clinical social work, she focuses on the therapeutic integration of animals and humans as a tool for healing both psychological and physical trauma. Her journey of resilience and her commitment to compassionate care make her a powerful voice in this field.Connect with Jaslyn Zarate:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaslyn-zarate-rcswi-c-aais-73b63915a/

Website: https://pawsandhealing.com/About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVMDr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.#AnimalWelfare #CulturalDiversity #HumanAnimalBond #VeterinarySocialWork #TraumaInformedCare #MentalHealth #Resilience #CaribbeanAmerican #PodcastEpisode #CrittersAndCultures #SocialWork #PetCare #Empathy #community

In this episode of the "Critters and Cultures" podcast, Dr. Azallia Boyd welcomes Dr. Wesley Chung, a shelter medicine veterinarian, to discuss accent bias and discrimination.

Dr. Chung, who recently completed his residency in shelter medicine, shares his personal experiences growing up in Hong Kong and then moving to a predominantly monoracial and racist environment in Europe at age 13. He recounts how he felt compelled to change his "ESL accent" to assimilate after being mocked and laughed at in class for struggling to read English aloud.

The conversation delves into the profound impact of accent bias, citing studies that show people with non-standard accents are often perceived as less intelligent, competent, and credible. They also discuss how accent bias disproportionately affects people of color and influences hiring practices.

The podcast ends with a powerful "pearl of wisdom" from Dr. Chung: those who speak with a "foreign non-standard accent" are often smart enough to juggle multiple languages or code-switch between accents and dialects, and brave enough to speak in their second language. This episode challenges listeners to confront their own biases and cultivate a more empathetic and respectful approach to communication.

Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Maddies Fund! The power of community and compassion in animal welfare.

Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/

SUBSCRIBE & SHARE

Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures

Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures

Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/

About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM

Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.