It’s Not Just About Asking, It’s About Connecting: Rethinking the Day of Giving in Animal Welfare

It’s Not Just About Asking, It’s About Connecting: Rethinking the Day of Giving in Animal Welfare

Author: The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement April 2, 2026 Duration: 39:30

In this episode of The Intake Podcast, host Katherine Shenar sits down with Rhett Lindsay and Lydia Krupinski from Anti-Cruelty in Chicago, alongside TrueSense Marketing’s Alison McCarty, to unpack how their 125th anniversary campaign became one of their all-time most impactful fundraising efforts.


Come meet Chanel, the rescue dog who became the face of the campaign, and explore the role that data and real-time optimization and authentic partnership played in Anti-Cruelty’s fully integrated, multi-channel experience.You’ll learn: 

  • How to create cohesive campaigns across email, direct mail, social, and media 
  • Why storytelling is your most powerful fundraising tool 
  • How to balance creative ideas with data-informed strategy 
  • What it really takes to retain and engage donors over time 

Whether you’re leading a campaign or rethinking your approach to donor engagement, this episode will challenge and inspire. 


Ever wonder what really happens behind the doors of an animal shelter or rescue? the Intake pulls up a chair to those conversations, offering a genuine look at the world of animal welfare. Created by The Association for Animal Welfare Advancement, this podcast moves beyond simple stories to explore the real challenges, heartwarming successes, and complex decisions faced by professionals and volunteers every day. You'll hear from the people on the front lines-from shelter directors and veterinarians to foster families and humane educators-as they discuss practical strategies, compassionate care, and the evolving philosophy of protecting animals. While the subject matter is rooted in animal welfare, the discussions naturally resonate with anyone who shares their home with a pet or is thinking of adding a furry member to their family. It’s a resource that feels like a thoughtful conversation with experts who understand that caring for animals involves the whole community, including kids and adults alike. Tune in for an honest and insightful audio experience that deepens your understanding of the dedicated work that ensures animals find safety, health, and love. Each episode of this podcast connects the dots between daily care and the broader mission of creating a more humane world for all creatures.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 46

the Intake
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