03/11/2026
Animal welfare work can be deeply rewarding, but it can also ask more from us than we realize.
In this episode of the Top Dog Podcast, Deborah Blum, Founder and Executive Director of Goatlandia Farm Animal Sanctuary, shares how a series of unexpected career paths eventually led her to create a sanctuary for farm animals.
Deborah talks about discovering the realities of animal agriculture, transitioning to a plant-based lifestyle, and realizing that farm animals often don't have the same visibility or support as dogs and cats.
Today, Goatlandia cares for around 150–175 animals and has built a model that goes beyond lifelong sanctuary care. The organization also facilitates adoptions and fostering, hosts food and educational experiences, operates a thrift store, and is developing its organic farm.
Deborah also opens up about one of the biggest lessons she's learned after 11 years in sanctuary work: taking care of yourself is part of taking care of the animals. She shares how compassion fatigue and burnout can affect people in animal welfare and why rest, teamwork, and knowing when to step back are essential.
🎧 Watch or listen to the full episode here:
https://doobert.com/deborah-blum-giving-farm-animals-a-voice/
📅 New episodes drop every Tuesday and Thursday, featuring powerful conversations with leaders shaping the future of animal welfare.