This episode kicks off a series where we explore the three major identity transformations most animal care workers experience: entering the field for the first time, enduring defining moments that shatter our understanding of the work, and exiting when we feel staying means losing ourselves.Drawing on research in moral injury, organizational psychology, and anthropology, Dr. Jamie McNally guides listeners through the concept of "liminal space", the uncomfortable in-between where we're no longer who we were but not yet who we're becoming. These transitions are psychologically dangerous when unsupported, which is why turnover in animal care remains devastatingly high.If you're questioning your place in animal care right now, if you're standing at a crossroads in animal care unsure whether to step in, stay, or walk away, know that feeling has a name: liminal space. And it's where every transformative journey begins. And if you are in a liminal space, this series is for you.

Disclaimer:

This program, including all podcast content and any related materials, is not a substitute for therapy, counseling, psychological services, or any form of medical or mental health treatment. While the host of this podcast is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), she is not operating in the capacity of a therapist within this program.

Engaging with this program does not establish a therapist-client relationship. No diagnosis, treatment, or clinical intervention will be provided. The purpose of this program is for education and personal growth—not for mental health treatment.

If you are experiencing significant emotional distress, symptoms of a mental health condition, or are in crisis, this program is not appropriate for your needs. You are encouraged to seek the support of a licensed mental health provider in your area.

This season 2 kick-off episode is about stepping through into new beginnings. Last year was full of transformation, growth, and an evolution of this work. That journey has resulted in the development of three foundational frameworks that will be guiding this podcast, and all of Fortifyu's work in 2026 and beyond:

1. Extremely Human Animal Care

2. Unashamedly Force-Free with Human and Non-Human Animals Alike

3. Give Them Voice Culture.

This episode launches Season 2 of This Too Is Rescue, and briefly introduces the frameworks that will be guiding us as we prepare to launch a value-packed season of episodes guided by these foundations.

Disclaimer:

This program, including all podcast content and any related materials, is not a substitute for therapy, counseling, psychological services, or any form of medical or mental health treatment. While the host of this podcast is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), she is not operating in the capacity of a therapist within this program.

Engaging with this program does not establish a therapist-client relationship. No diagnosis, treatment, or clinical intervention will be provided. The purpose of this program is for education and personal growth—not for mental health treatment.

If you are experiencing significant emotional distress, symptoms of a mental health condition, or are in crisis, this program is not appropriate for your needs. You are encouraged to seek the support of a licensed mental health provider in your area.

In Episode 1, I told you we'd explore why the most compassionate people leave animal care work.

By Episode 9, I'd nearly become one of them.

This is the Season 1 finale of This Too Is Rescue. In this episode, I share what happened over the past few months: the silence, the struggle, and the realignment. I talk about living the moral injury we've been discussing all season, why individual resilience isn't the answer, and what we're building together in 2026.

Have you ever taught something you were simultaneously learning? Talked about something you were living in real time? Warned people about a cliff you were standing at the edge of?

That was this season for me.

But I'm still here. And I'm coming back more clear.

This isn't goodbye. It's "see you in Season 2."

Thank you for being part of this movement.

Resources mentioned:- Moral Injury Assessment: fortifyucoaching.com/moral-injury-assessment- Connect: https://www.instagram.com/fortifyu_coach (Instagram)

...Jamie McNally, Ph.D., LPC... | LinkedIn (Linkedin)

Facebook- Share your story or ask your question for Season 2: info@fortifyucoaching.com

Season 2 launches in 2026. Until then, take care of yourselves. Take care of each other. And remember: this too is rescue.

Disclaimer:

This program, including all podcast content and any related materials, is not a substitute for therapy, counseling, psychological services, or any form of medical or mental health treatment. While the host of this podcast is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), she is not operating in the capacity of a therapist within this program.

Engaging with this program does not establish a therapist-client relationship. No diagnosis, treatment, or clinical intervention will be provided. The purpose of this program is for education and personal growth—not for mental health treatment.

If you are experiencing significant emotional distress, symptoms of a mental health condition, or are in crisis, this program is not appropriate for your needs. You are encouraged to seek the support of a licensed mental health provider in your area.