Welcome to the 100th episode of Cruz Through HTX. 

As you know, this is a podcast for those who want to learn more about the greater Houston area, the businesses, the organizations, the individuals that make it great. And for those of you who know me well, you know me from a previous career. And I spent that previous career talking over the course of 26 years.

I’ve hosted hundreds and hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of shows. And it was really not the big deal because I was just doing my job and doing the best that I could and talking to whoever will listen to me. But apparently in the podcast world, 100 episodes is a big deal. Not to me, but it is. That's because so many people don't even make it past episode three. And even fewer make it to episode 20. So I'm going to make a big damn deal out of 100 episodes.

And so what you're going to hear over the next two hours is me talking to people who I have much respect, much love, much admiration for. 

These are people who work within organizations that are doing a bang up job here in the Houston area with regards to a cause that's near and dear to my heart. That's the homeless animal population. 

We got some new podcasters who have been killing it in the game. I met them a couple months ago We're gonna we're gonna talk to a couple of people who go back with me to my previous radio career and of course my man Raul Moreno, who I met back in 2017. 

Raul is the host of Charlie Mike: The Podcast and he was gracious enough to let us crash his studio to record this episode. If you're ever in Pearland, check out the Pearland Podcast Studio.

Joining me today:

1.) Lisa Tynan from Houston PetSet and host of the podcast Conversations for the Animals.

2.) Juan and Anjelica, founders of Big Oak Tree Media and hosts of In the Business with Juan and Anjelica.

3.) Holland Hettinger, co-host of Ask Your Work Wife.

Takeaways

1.) The 100th episode of the podcast celebrates organizations making a difference for homeless animals in Houston.

2.) Houston Pet Set has grown over the years and now supports various programs, including spay and neuter services, community vaccine and microchip clinics, and animal transport.

3.) Working in animal welfare can be emotionally challenging, but it is also rewarding to see animals find their forever homes.

4.) The podcast highlights the importance of self-care and taking breaks to avoid burnout in the animal welfare industry.

5.) Using AI writing tools can be helpful, but it's important to understand their limitations and use them in an intellectual way.

6.) Self-promotion is crucial in the workplace to ensure recognition for your work and increase your chances of career advancement. Ambitious women need more resources to excel in corporate America.

7.) Knowing the rules and playing the game is crucial in corporate America.

8.) Leaving corporate America can lead to personal growth and new opportunities.

9.) Aligning with the goals of corporate America can lead to success.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating 100 Episodes
17:31 The Growth and Programs of Houston Pet Set
29:14 The Emotional Challenges and Rewards of Animal Welfare
41:01 The Importance of Self-Care in the Animal Welfare Industry
41:57 Understanding Dog Body Language
47:28 The Dangers of Retractable Leashes
49:53 Harmful Dog Training Tools
01:02:55 The Pros and Cons of AI Writing Tools
01:05:16 The Importance of Self-Promotion in the Workplace
01:22:37 Empowering Ambitious Women in Corporate America
01:23:07 Knowing the Rules and Playing the Game in Corporate America
01:25:57 Leaving Corporate America for Personal Growth
01:27:55 Aligning with the Goals of Corporate America
01:33:17 Setting Low Expectations for Criticism
01:43:45 The Power of Podcasting: Sharing Stories and Building Community