March 18, 2025

Transforming Animal Welfare Messaging, Featuring Hanna Lentz, the Executive Director of SPARC (Supporting People and Animal Relationships for Change)

32 minutes

"We know how much the messages and stories we hear impact what we believe to be true. If we change our messaging, we can create real change for animals and communities."

This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund.

How can storytelling and messaging shape the future of animal welfare? In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Hanna Lentz, executive director of SPARC (Supporting People and Animal Relationships for Change). With two decades in animal welfare, Hanna shares how SPARC is reshaping narratives to improve collaboration, reduce divisiveness, and create meaningful change for animals and people.

From hands-on shelter work to strategic messaging, Hanna discusses her journey and words' powerful role in shaping perceptions, policies, and practices in animal welfare. Whether you're involved in TNR, rescue, or advocacy, this episode will challenge you to rethink how we talk about the work we do—and why it matters.

Press Play Now For:

The role of messaging in shaping animal welfare strategies
How community members can support pet owners in crisis
The power of empathic listening in advocacy and rescue work
Breaking down divisive issues like "No-Kill" and community cat management
How SPARC is helping organizations refine their language for maximum impact
Why collaboration between social services and animal welfare is crucial

Resources & Links:

Learn more about SPARC (http://www.sparcinsight.org)

Sponsor Links:

Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies604)

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By The Community Cats Podcast