In this episode, we explore the cyclical nature of compassion fatigue, examining how it can trap animal welfare workers and caregivers in a pattern of chronic stress and emotional depletion. We contrast the pathology cycle—marked by overextension, denial, and eventual burnout—with the renewal cycle, which emphasizes boundaries, self-awareness, recovery, and sustainability. Listeners are invited to reflect on where they fall within the cycle and are offered insights and tools to help shift from a state of suffering to one of healing and resilience.

In this episode, we explore the zombie phase of the compassion fatigue cycle—when emotional numbness, detachment, and exhaustion become the norm. You may feel like you’re moving through your days on autopilot, disconnected from your passion, purpose, and even your own emotions. We break down the key signs of the zombie phase, why it’s so dangerous for animal advocates, and how to begin reconnecting with yourself and your mission.

In this special bonus episode of Beyond Compassion Fatigue, we pause our series on the phases of the compassion fatigue cycle to address a heartbreaking loss in the animal welfare community.

Yesterday, we lost another dedicated animal advocate to suicide—someone who gave so much of herself to the cause, only to be met with relentless bullying, online cruelty, and a lack of support from the very community she was a part of. This episode is dedicated to her, and to all the advocates we’ve lost along the way.

We need to talk about suicide in animal care, welfare, and activism.

In this episode, we explore:

• The harsh realities of working in animal care, welfare, and activism

• The cumulative impact of trauma and grief

• The toxic culture of public shaming and online harassment--even within our own community

• Signs that someone might be struggling with suicidal thoughts

• How to support yourself and others who may be in crisis

• The myth that asking about suicide “plants the idea” in someone’s head

• What leadership can do to foster safer, more compassionate workplaces

This isn’t an easy conversation—but it’s a necessary one. If we want to build a more compassionate world, it has to start with how we treat each other.

Resources mentioned:

• U.S. Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial or text 988 or chat here.

• International Suicide Crisis Lines

• Not One More Vet

• Suicide Prevention Safety Plan and other downloadable worksheets available here: animalwelfarewellness.com/free-resources

In this episode, we dive into the withdrawal phase of the compassion fatigue cycle—when emotional numbing, isolation, and detachment begin to take hold. We explore why those in animal care, welfare, and activism start pulling away from loved ones, work, and the causes they care about, and how this phase signals deeper emotional exhaustion. Tune in for insights on recognizing withdrawal patterns, reconnecting with your purpose, and applying practical self-care strategies to rebuild resilience. Grab your free resources at https://beyondcompassionfatigue.com.

In this episode, we explore the irritability phase of the compassion fatigue cycle—when stress, emotional exhaustion, and frustration start affecting relationships and daily life of anyone working in animal care, welfare, or activism. Learn to recognize early warning signs, understand the emotional toll of caregiving and advocacy, and discover practical self-care strategies to prevent burnout.

To grab your free resources, go to www.beyondcompassionfatigue.com.

In this episode, we explore the zealot phase of the compassion fatigue cycle—the stage marked by intense enthusiasm, over commitment, and a relentless drive to help. While passion fuels purpose, it can also set the stage for exhaustion and burnout if left unchecked. We break down the signs of the zealot phase, why it’s so common among animal advocates and caregivers, and how to balance dedication with boundaries and self-care.

In this first episode, we unpack the core concept of compassion fatigue—what it is, how it differs from burnout, and why it’s so common in caregiving and helping professions. We explore the emotional and physical toll of caring deeply, the warning signs to watch for, and how compassion fatigue affects those in animal care, welfare, and activism. Whether you’re new to the topic or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode lays the foundation for recognizing compassion fatigue and beginning the journey toward resilience and healing.

If you're looking to make your passion for helping animals sustainable, this podcast is for you! Beyond Compassion Fatigue focuses on managing compassion fatigue, burnout, grief, and secondary traumatic stress among those who work or volunteer in animal care, welfare, or activism. Hosted by Jen Blough, licensed professional counselor, author (To Save a Starfish), animal activist, and former shelter worker and animal control officer. Featuring solo and guest episodes.