Jackie Roach | From Career Pivot to Purpose-Driven Leadership
Jackie Roach | From Career Pivot to Purpose-Driven Leadership
Prefer an audio version? Listen here:
In this episode of the Top Dog Podcast, Jackie Roach, CEO of the Santa Fe Animal Shelter & Humane Society, shares her inspiring journey from a 30-year career in retail to leading an animal welfare organization with purpose and passion.
What started as volunteering for a better parking spot turned into a life-changing realization.
“I fell in love with the work.”
Jackie’s story highlights how unexpected moments can lead to meaningful impact — including founding a rescue that has saved over 2,500 dogs and eventually stepping into leadership roles across the industry.
A key takeaway from this episode is the importance of mindset and leadership approach. Jackie emphasizes moving away from scarcity thinking and toward growth, experimentation, and community impact.
“We can’t operate from a place of scarcity.”
She also focuses on building a positive culture within her team by celebrating wins, assuming positive intent, and creating accountability.
“Good things happen here every day.”
This episode also highlights the power of community-driven programs, from foster care to safety net services that help keep pets in homes — and even creative ideas like tourism-based engagement programs.
At its core, Jackie’s leadership is about building something sustainable that empowers others to succeed.
“I want to build something where others can succeed.”
This message is especially important for Dooberteers, fosters, and volunteers. Every action — from fostering to community support — helps create lasting impact for animals and the people who care for them.
If you’re passionate about helping animals, join the Doobert community where volunteers, fosters, transporters, and organizations work together to save lives every day. Visit Doobert.com to get involved.
And don’t forget to subscribe to the Top Dog Podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.
Do you know any Top Dogs we should interview? We’re always looking for amazing people in animal welfare to feature on the podcast. Send us an email at tdp@doobert.com.