I personally believe it was a milestone, a watershed moment for the shelter. I don’t know that we have ever come together culturally in the same place, at the same time, doing the same thing as equals with no barriers. It was a snapshot of what could be. Everybody was engaged.” “Many of us aren’t looking at each other the same anymore. I think the event helped us really see each other. We’re seeing each other as humans, not just the person who works at that desk or does that job. The comments just kept coming about how heartfelt and real and connected it was.Patricia, Chief of Staff, Santa Fe Animal Shelter

José was our keynote speaker and he was exceptional. From the moment he stepped into the room, he connected with attendees in a way that felt genuine, grounded, and deeply impactful. What makes José such a powerful speaker is not just his charisma or compassion , it’s the fact that he has lived this work. With two decades of firsthand experience, he understands our realities and the emotional weight this profession carries, both on the job and at home. His message resonated because it was authentic, insightful, and rooted in real understanding. The response from our attendees was overwhelmingly positive. In fact, he made such a lasting impression that we invited him back to serve as a keynote speaker again this year.Sarah Hock, Director of Joint Animal Services

Multiple members of my organization took this course after I completed it. Having shared language that promotes our well-being has been a game changer! I have so many practices and tools to help balance the challenges we all face. The work hasn't gotten easier, but I have changed who I am and how I respond. I will be thankful and remember this moment when I found José, Angel, and the course for the rest of my life! I even took it twice because I didn't want what I was incorporating into my life to slip away. I wish everyone would take this course. I wish I had taken this years ago, but I'm thankful I am where I am now.2026 Live Better Participant

Working with José has been introspective, empowering, and confidence boosting. With each exercise, I learn a bit more of how I think, work, and what motivates me — especially the vision and values exercise. José is my one-man cheering section, mentor, and friend; and I am so grateful that I have him in my corner! Jennifer Jenkins, (Coaching Client)

José can listen to frustrations and acknowledge genuine issues while still centering the humanity of each person involved. He shifts nimbly between the profound and the more mundane (but ever so important) practical details of a functioning team. At one moment he will ask you a question that goes straight to the heart of who you are and how you want to spend your one precious life here on earth; the next moment he might be helping craft a job description or draw up a meeting agenda. I’ve found this combination rare in a single individual and incredibly helpful.Dr. Kate Hurley, Funding Director, UC Davis Shelter Medicine Program