Ep 653: How One Humane Society is Scaling TNR to Save Thousands with Cheryl McCormick CEO of Athens Area Humane Society

Ep 653: How One Humane Society is Scaling TNR to Save Thousands with Cheryl McCormick CEO of Athens Area Humane Society

Author: The Community Cats Podcast February 24, 2026 Duration: 38:03

"Small to mid-size organizations can accomplish a tremendous amount of impact when they work together, shoulder to shoulder in joyful service."

This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie's Fund, The Animal Rights Foundation, The Trapper's Tips & Tricks Certification Workshop, and The Community Cat Clinic.

In this episode of the Community Cats Podcast, host Stacy LeBaron sits down with Dr. Cheryl McCormick, CEO of the Athens Area Humane Society, for an energetic and inspiring conversation on scaling high-impact, humane strategies for managing community cats. Drawing on her rich background in wildlife ecology and nonprofit leadership, Cheryl shares how her visit to Operation Catnip in Florida sparked a major shift in her organization's approach—resulting in a game-changing, high-volume spay/neuter initiative dubbed "Snip & Tip."

Listeners will hear how Cheryl and her team implemented this model in Georgia, overcoming scorching summer heat, logistical hurdles, and community challenges to sterilize 166 cats in just two days. She outlines the lean-staff, volunteer-driven model powered by professional trappers, strategic scheduling, and strong partnerships with funders. The episode is filled with practical strategies, insights into vet school partnerships, and tips for leveraging data and geography to reduce feline overpopulation—especially in underserved rural areas.

If you're looking for ways to improve cat welfare, build collaborative rescue models, or create sustainable TNR programs, this episode is a masterclass in innovation and impact at scale.

Press Play Now For:

  • How a visit to Operation Catnip inspired a major organizational pivot
  • Strategies for high-volume, low-cost sterilization events in rural areas
  • Why Cheryl believes cat care is a powerful public health initiative
  • Building sustainable vet pipelines through early student engagement
  • The magic of "stone soup" funding models for humane programs
  • Tips on starting community-based "cat action teams" and local satellite support

Resources & Links:


Tuning into The Community Cats Podcast feels like joining a thoughtful conversation with neighbors who share a deep concern for the feline lives intertwined with our own. This isn't just about admiration from afar; it's a practical, compassionate resource for anyone who has ever wondered how to help the unowned cat in their backyard or navigate the complexities of local animal welfare. Each episode builds a supportive environment through genuine dialogue, bringing together voices from the front lines-including caregivers, veterinarians, non-profit founders, and community organizers. You'll hear real stories and actionable strategies that blend the heart of family and pets with the necessary mechanics of business and non-profit work, making it accessible for listeners of all ages, including kids involved in community care. The education provided here demystifies everything from Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) to colony management and public policy, empowering you with the information to make a tangible difference. This podcast recognizes that helping community cats is a multifaceted endeavor, and its discussions reflect that holistic view, fostering a sense of shared purpose and practical knowledge you can apply right where you live.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

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