Human Hacks for a Growth-oriented and Collaborative Industry

How do our own human L.E.G.S. influence the way we work, collaborate, and cope in this industry? This course explores the professional environment through the lens of human welfare. Marlene O’Neill Laberge invites participants to reflect on how immediate workplace conditions, broader industry culture, stress, conflict, and personal history can either support or hinder well-being and professional satisfaction.

This presentation offers practical “human hacks” for recognizing high-conflict dynamics, navigating difficult interactions, and building more understanding between animal care professionals. Participants will examine how curiosity, communication, and self-awareness can help create a more growth-oriented and collaborative industry. The goal is to support the humans doing the work, because healthier professionals are better equipped to make thoughtful, compassionate decisions for the animals and families they serve.