Dr. Apryl Steele
President & CEO, Dumb Friends League, Denver, CO
“Pets on the Ballot”
I’m thrilled to share the just-published episode of Community Catalysts, where we take a deep dive into a groundbreaking initiative that could reshape the future of veterinary care in Colorado. My guest is Dr. Apryl Steele, President and CEO of Dumb Friends League, one of the nation's largest and most impactful animal welfare organizations.
In this episode, Dr. Steele and I explore a ballot measure set for this November that proposes creating a first-in-the-nation veterinary professional role, the Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA). This new position is designed to alleviate the critical shortage of veterinary care by expanding the range of services that trained professionals can provide under a licensed veterinarian's supervision.
Dr. Steele sheds light on the challenges facing the veterinary profession, the importance of this initiative, and the impact it could have on Colorado families and their pets. We also discuss the broader implications for veterinary care nationwide, should this measure pass.
Whether you care about animal welfare or just want to understand the mechanics of driving innovation through a ballot initiative, this episode is a fascinating must-listen.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and all podcast platforms.
To share a story from your own leadership journey,
APPLY HERE
to become a guest.
ABOUT THE PODCAST:
Local leaders everywhere are innovating ways to engage their communities, foster collaboration, and achieve significant goals. “Community Catalysts” brings you the inside story of mayors, council members, city managers, nonprofit CEOs, and other changemakers from a variety of backgrounds. Produced by Social Prosperity Partners and hosted by Matt Lehrman, the podcast offers a weekly dose of inspiration and practical advice for leaders committed to inclusive decision-making and excellence in governance.
Website by Right|Left Consulting & Design
© 2025 Audience Avenue LLC | Social Prosperity Partners
Skidmore College photos by Erin Covey
Fort Worth photos by the Fort Worth Portrait Project
Connect 351 photos by Krista Guenin/Krista Photography