Critters and Cultures

Azalia Boyd
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to 'Critters and Cultures,' a podcast exploring the rich intersection of cultural diversity, animal welfare, veterinary medicine, and the human-animal bond. Hosted by Dr. Azalia Boyd, this show celebrates how culture shapes, influences, enhances, and sometimes challenge the ways we care for animals and relate to each other. On this journey, the show highlights global traditions, diverse perspectives, and advocates for empathy and respect in all interactions.

  1. 12/23/2025

    Shop BIPOC Pet Brands at Super Zoo (Part 2) - S2 Ep 12

    This is Part 2 of our holiday special! Join Dr. Azalia Boyd, veterinarian and host of the Critters and Cultures podcast, as she heads to SuperZoo, the largest pet retail conference in the nation, to connect with amazing brands. In this episode, Dr. Boyd interviews diverse entrepreneurs who are leading the way in the pet care industry, sharing their purpose, struggles, and pain points. In this video, you will meet: Brandon Baxter, owner of Palms 'N Paws Canine Massage https://palmsnpaws.com/ https://www.instagram.com/palmsnpaws_ Juanita Harris: Discover Juanita's journey in the pet industry, starting from a bather and brusher at PetSmart to salon ownership and then to a marketing job with Ryan's Pet Supplies. Monita specializes in social media management, content marketing, and digital marketing for pets and people. She emphasizes the importance of personalized marketing that reflects the diversity of clients. Dre, owner of The Dre Creations https://www.instagram.com/thedrecreations/ https://linktr.ee/thedrecreationsllc  The episode of Critters and Cultures is brought to you by Mattie's Fund, a family foundation that transforms animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity. Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/ SUBSCRIBE & SHARE Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/ About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

    29 min

  2. 12/16/2025

    Shop BIPOC Pet Brands at Super Zoo (Part 1) - S2 Ep 11

    The holiday season is here, and on this episode of "Critters and Cultures," host, Dr. Azalia Boyd, a veterinarian, is at Super Zoo, the largest pet retail conference in the nation, to highlight some of the best emerging pet brands. This episode offers inspiration from diverse entrepreneurs who are leading the way in the pet care industry. Dr. Boyd interviews three different pet entrepreneurs: Kedisha Clayborne - Francis & Bee's Pets https://francisandbee.com/ https://www.instagram.com/francisandbeepets/ Ava from Ava's Pet Palace https://avaspetpalace.com/ https://www.instagram.com/avaspetpalace/ Daedrien Leyva-Lynn - Spoiled Pets https://shopspoiledpets.com/  https://www.instagram.com/shopspoiledpets  The episode of Critters and Cultures is brought to you by Mattie's Fund, a family foundation that transforms animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity. Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/ SUBSCRIBE & SHARE Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/ About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

    27 min

  3. 12/09/2025

    Saving Community Cats in Queens, NYC with LIC Feral Feeders - S2 Ep10

    In this episode, we're in New York City's Queens neighborhood to speak with the amazing team from LIC Feral Feeders: Victoria Koulouris, Jannatul (Jan) Ahmed, and Raiana Khan. Tune in as we dive into the vital work this organization is doing with community cats in Long Island City and the challenges they face, from gentrification to addressing different cultural perspectives on animal care. This episode of Critters & Cultures is brought to you by: Maddie's Fund: A family foundation working to transform animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity. Learn more at maddiesfund.org. The BIPO and Animal Well-being Collective: A community for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color connected through care, work, and advocacy in the animal well-being space. Find support or get involved at bipacollective.com. SUBSCRIBE & SHARE Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/ Meet Our Guests from LIC Feral Feeders: Victoria Koulouris (IG @therealmisshitwinner)Co-founder of LIC Feral Feeders. A lifelong New Yorker with decades in Queens, she is involved in much of the Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) and rescue work across Long Island City. She brings "history, grit, and a deep love for her neighborhood and outdoor cats". Jannatul (Jan) Ahmed (IG @janskittens) The Director of Operations at LIC Feral Feeders. She is a Bengali Muslim New Yorker, born and raised in Astoria. Her journey began during the pandemic by fostering kittens. Jan advocates fiercely for the immigrant and diaspora communities in Queens, many of whom are being displaced by gentrification and rising costs. Raiana khan (IG @queens.kitties) A dedicated rescuer and Community Cat Coordinator with LIC Feral Feeders.Her hands-on TNR work, cultural perspective, and advocacy for outdoor cats bring a grounded voice to the conversation. Ryana, whose parents are from Bangladesh, shares how her background helps her connect with community members who may have different views on pet care. LICFF Website: https://licferalfeeders.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/licferalfeeders/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/licferalfeeders Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@licferalfeeders About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

    46 min

  4. 12/02/2025

    Why Animal Shelters FAIL to Build Trust (The Cultural Barrier) - S2 Ep9 with Rousseau Durocher

    Dr. Azalia Boyd welcomes Rousseau Durocher, a Haitian-American Intake Supervisor at Broward County Animal Care, to discuss his journey and efforts in cultural repair and community outreach. Russo shares how he works to bridge the gap between animal services and the community, emphasizing respect for every customer. Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Maddies Fund! The power of community and compassion in animal welfare. Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/ This episode is also sponsored by the BIPOC and Animal Well-being Collective. Go to https://www.bipoccollective.com/   SUBSCRIBE & SHARE Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/   About Rousseau Durocher Russo Durocher is a Haitian-American animal welfare professional who currently serves as the Intake Supervisor at Broward County Animal Care. His journey in the industry began as a temporary staff member, and his career growth reflects resilience and cultural navigation. Russo is committed to cultural repair, community outreach, and confronting the stigma surrounding animal services. His leadership style centers on staying motivated, encouraging his staff, and removing biases to ensure every customer is treated with respect and served with a "fresh start". Russo believes in "Collaboration over competition" and stresses the importance of public and private shelters aligning to be more effective. About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

    34 min

  5. 11/25/2025

    The Rwandan Genocide: The Lessons This Veterinarian Won’t Let Us Ignore - S2 Ep8 with Dr. Kalenzi

    About Dr. Patrick Kalenzi Dr. Patrick Kenzi is a veterinarian, public speaker, and author whose life is a testament to resilience. Born in Uganda to Tutsi refugee parents who had fled the 1958 Rwandan genocide, his early life was shaped by tending cattle and dogs, experiences that formed a lifelong bond with animals. After being the first in his family to attend and graduate from university, Dr. Kenzi moved to the United States to better support his family. Starting by delivering newspapers and working at a pet store, he worked his way to becoming a licensed veterinarian and now owns a successful multi-million dollar veterinary practice and grooming shop in Broomfield, Colorado. Dr. Kenzi navigates life in the United States as a successful Black man, recognizing the echoes of tribalism and systemic injustice he experienced as a refugee in Uganda. He is a two-time TEDx speaker and an author, driven by a mission to honor the wisdom and legacy of his grandfather. For Dr. Kenzi, his greatest achievement is breaking generational curses and supporting the education and independence of his siblings and nieces. Connect with Dr. Patrick Kalenzi: https://www.patrickkalenzi.com/ https://www.rockcreekvet.com/ https://www.tearsrundry.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-kalenzi-93aba018/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrick.kalenzi/ About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

    37 min

  6. 11/11/2025

    The Untold Story Behind the Critter Fixers’ Rise to Fame - S2 Ep7

    In this episode of "Critters and Cultures," the Dr. Azalia Boyd speaks with Dr. Hodges and Dr. Ferguson, the "Critter Fixers," two Black veterinarians from the South who bring with them the legacy of Tuskegee University. They discuss their experience balancing advanced medicine with providing accessible care in a rural community and the importance of visibility and cultural connection in shaping lives. The veterinarians share their journey, from meeting as undergrads at Fort Valley State to opening their practice in rural Georgia, and the challenges they faced with racism and starting a business. The conversation also highlights their dedication to mentorship through their "Vet for a Day" program and the enduring significance of Tuskegee University in producing the majority of the nation's Black veterinarians. Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Maddies Fund! The power of community and compassion in animal welfare. Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/SUBSCRIBE & SHARE Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboydYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCulturesSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-culturesWebsite: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/ About Dr. Terrence Ferguson Dr. Terrence Ferguson, from Talbotton, GA, graduated from Fort Valley State and Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, where he was Class President and won the Pfizer Small Animal Award. In 1999, Dr. Ferguson and Dr. Vernard Hodges co-founded Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital in Middle Georgia. Critter Fixer quickly expanded, now running two state-of-the-art facilities and seeing over 20,000 patients annually. They star in the Nat Geo Wild show, “Critter Fixers: Country Vets.” Dr. Ferguson is dedicated to community mentorship through athletics, co-founding the Peach County Youth Association and running Football Skill Development. He also leads a yearly college tour for athletes. In 2022, he started the T-Fergg One Yard at a Time Foundation with his son, TJ (an FSU football player), supporting youth fitness. He co-launched the nationwide “Vet for a Day” program in 2021 to attract students to the veterinary field. In his spare time, Dr. Ferguson restores muscle cars, co-owns Critter Fixer Cattle Company (over 100 Black Angus), and operates a real estate company. He lives in Peach County with his wife, Kimberly, and their two children, including Terri Nicole, a current Tuskegee vet student. About Dr. Vernard Hodges Dr. Vernard Hodges, a fish biologist and veterinarian, is a graduate of Fort Valley State University and Tuskegee Vet Med. He co-founded and practices primarily at Critter Fixer Veterinary Hospital in Bonaire, GA. Their success led to the Nat Geo Wild and Disney+ show, “Critter Fixers: Country Vets,” which aired its fifth season in 2023. Dr. Hodges is a Renaissance man engaged in multiple enterprises. He co-operates the Critter Fixer Cattle Company and built a multi-million-dollar real estate business. His writing led to the bestselling book, “Bet on Yourself: From Zero to Millions.” In 2023, he launched Vetopia, a national conglomerate promoting ownership of PetSmart Veterinary Services franchised hospitals. He actively gives back through the Dr. Vernard Hodges “It Takes A Village” Foundation (2011), teaching children business skills. The Foundation launched the successful, nationwide “Vet for a Day” program in 2021, encouraging young students to enter the veterinary profession. Dr. Hodges has won numerous awards for his business and service. He is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and enjoys spending time with his four dogs and his son, VJ, a Morehouse College sophomore.

    54 min

  7. 10/28/2025

    Allyship in Action: Why I Stepped Down as Vet CEO - S2 Ep 6 with Dr. Mia Cary

    In this episode of "Critters and Cultures," Dr. Azalia Boyd interviews Dr. Mia Cary, a consultant, speaker, and facilitator specializing in leadership, belonging, communication, and teamwork. Dr. Cary, also the CEO of Cary Consulting, discusses her work with Pride VMC, an organization dedicated to the LGBTQ+ veterinary community. She shares her personal journey, including her complicated relationship with the word "resilience" and why she chose to step down as CEO of Pride VMC. The conversation highlights the importance of land acknowledgments, building trust, and the power of affinity groups in fostering inclusive environments within the veterinary profession and beyond. Dr. Cary concludes by offering a cultural gift: "care, but don't always carry." Season 2 is proudly sponsored by Maddies Fund! The power of community and compassion in animal welfare.  Go to https://www.maddiesfund.org/ ABOUT DR. MIA CARY Dr. Mia Cary (she, hers) is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator specializing in leadership, belonging, communication, and teamwork. Her purpose is activating others to thrive and her professional experience includes leadership and education roles at PrideVMC, AVMA, NAVC, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Novartis Animal Health. Dr. Cary is the CEO and Change Agent for Cary (aka JoyMaker) Consulting, which she founded in 2019. She resides in Greensboro, NC,  and recognizes the Eno, Sappony, and Shakori nations on whose land she lives and works.  CONNECT WITH MIA CARY Website: https://pridevmc.org/sibling-organizations/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenvet23 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miacarydvm REFERENCES Purpose is Power: https://caryconsulting.com/purposeispower/ Veterinary Hope Foundation: https://veterinaryhope.org/ PrideVMC https://pridevmc.org/ 5 Calls: https://5calls.org/ Solutions Book Club: https://padlet.com/zenvet23/solutionsbookclub Indivisible: https://indivisible.org/ SUBSCRIBE & SHARE  Link Tree: http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures Website: https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/ About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for a non profit animal welfare organization working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all. 00:00 Meet Dr. Mia Carey 04:25 The Power of Land Acknowledgments 11:12 My Personal Purpose 13:21 Rethinking Resilience 20:31 Pride VMC: A Community's Heart 27:27 VetMed Interconnected: Unity in Diversity 31:50 The Art of Building Trust

    35 min

  8. 10/21/2025

    Innovations in Pet Care & Cultural Diversity at SuperZoo - S2 Ep 5

    Discover how cultural heritage, innovative products, and dedicated advocacy are shaping the future of pet care and animal welfare! Dr. Azalia Boyd explores the latest innovations in pet care and the rich cultural diversity within the pet industry at SuperZoo, the nation's largest pet retail conference. In this episode, Dr. Boyd interviews: Mecca (from 00:59): The Next Wave Pitch Competition winner, whose business, Nkita, creates waterless grooming products for pets (and humans!) using moringa, an ingredient endemic to West Africa, reflecting his Nigerian roots. Teju (from 07:16): Founder of Skona Petco, sharing her mission to bring traditional Indian food and Ayurvedic principles to the American pet industry, advocating for homemade diets and the benefits of ingredients like turmeric. The Trap King Sterling Davis and Nathan the Cat Lady (from 12:59): This dynamic duo discusses their impactful work in cat rescue, their journey from unique backgrounds to becoming a "power couple" in animal welfare, and their international efforts to address cultural practices affecting animal well-being in places like Spain. This episode is brought to you by:Maddie's Fund: Championing an inclusive, innovative, and compassionate world for pets and people, transforming animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity. Learn more at ⁠https://www.maddiesfund.org/⁠ Elevate: A nonprofit dedicated to building equity and opportunity in the pet industry, creating space for Black and Indigenous people of color, entrepreneurs, and leaders to grow and thrive. Learn more at https://elevatepetpros.org/ SUBSCRIBE & SHARE Link Tree: ⁠http://Linktr.ee/azaliaboyd⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@CrittersandCultures Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/critters-and-cultures⁠ Website: ⁠https://www.drazaliaboyd.com/⁠ About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.

    20 min
See All (31)

Trailer

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to 'Critters and Cultures,' a podcast exploring the rich intersection of cultural diversity, animal welfare, veterinary medicine, and the human-animal bond. Hosted by Dr. Azalia Boyd, this show celebrates how culture shapes, influences, enhances, and sometimes challenge the ways we care for animals and relate to each other. On this journey, the show highlights global traditions, diverse perspectives, and advocates for empathy and respect in all interactions.

Information

  • Creator
    Azalia Boyd
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    31
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Azalia Boyd
  • Show Website
    Critters and Cultures