Ep. 53: From PTSD to Purpose with Lisa Beggio

In this episode of Beyond Compassion Fatigue, I sit down with Lisa Beggio, Executive Director of Columbia Humane Society, to discuss her deeply personal journey through primary trauma, PTSD, and healing after surviving a life-threatening dog attack while working in animal rescue. Lisa shares what it was like to return to shelter work after trauma, the reality of PTSD triggers in a field built around exposure to suffering, and how therapy helped her reclaim her life and career. Together, we explore the intersection of compassion fatigue and PTSD, the importance of speaking openly about mental health in animal welfare, and why protecting the people who protect animals must become a priority. This conversation is raw, honest, and hopeful—and an important reminder that healing is possible. We discuss: How trauma can reshape your nervous system and identity What PTSD symptoms looked like after Lisa’s dog attack Why returning to work required intentional exposure and support The power of therapy, accountability, and learning trauma tools Breaking stigma around mental health in animal welfare How leadership can normalize self-care and psychological safety Finding purpose and meaning after trauma Why “being selfish” is sometimes essential for survival in helping professions Resources mentioned: Columbia Humane Society website Columbia Humane Society Facebook Got a suggestion for a future topic? Reach out to me: [email protected]. Follow on social media:  Facebook Instagram YouTube Grab your free resources to help manage compassion fatigue here.  Visit my free virtual calming room here.  Get your copy of To Save a Starfish: A Compassion Fatigue Workbook for the Animal Welfare Warrior here.