We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shelly Fitzpatrick. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Shelly, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
Absolutely – a bit of both recently! Living in South Florida, I’ve developed a soft spot for green iguanas. They are beautiful, but often misunderstood. While out on my Sea-Doo, I sometimes spot one struggling in the water – either it’s been hit by a boat or someone took a shot at it. So, I jump in the water with a towel to pick it up and bring it to safety.
My most recent iguana rescue ended with pure comedy. I found one that needed to be rescued from harm, so I brought it back to my house and released it on my dock. As soon as it could, it took the biggest flying leap – arms and legs stretched out wide, like it had a wing suit on and was doing a BASE jump off the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio! It was finally safe. The little guy had no more worries about being shot – just peace and freedom here.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a documentary producer, writer, and animal rights activist. I’m involved in producing films and writing books that advocate for animals – telling their stories in ways that help people see them not as commodities, but as living beings who feel, love, and deserve a life of safety and protection. From dogs, cats, pigs, chickens, cows, and iguanas – every life matters; and my goal is to continue raising awareness and compassion for them.
I’m currently honored to be a producer on a film called Dog Warriors, by Open Eye Pictures, which won a top award at Raindance Film Festival, and successfully qualified Academy Award film. Dog Warriors is available to stream on demand via Amazon Prime, where you can rent or purchase the film. We would love for people to rate it as well with a thumbs up. The film’s goal is to make a huge impact for dogs worldwide.
Another current project that I’m a producer on is a documentary titled, Liberty: A film about art, disability, and freedom for all. (and of course… this includes all animals)
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
I think what breaks bonds most is judgement – the inability or unwillingness to understand one another. If someone has opposing worldviews, eats meat, is plant-based or a devoted vegan, I believe it’s important to understand all sides of a person. We’re all perfect and flawed at the same time.
When it comes to food and lifestyle choices, I regularly sit at tables with meat eaters and milk drinkers. While it’s not my preference, I focus on what connects us, instead of what divides us. I believe that when we lean into on our shared humanity rather than our differences, we rebuild trust and restore bonds between us.
If I can spark a conversation or inspire someone to skip meat – even one day a week – or drink a non-dairy latte, I see that as a win. It shows care for their health and for animals.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Buy the home on the ocean, now! But seriously, I’d tell myself: Be confident, trust your gut and instincts, and use your voice for animals.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
That animals truly do suffer because of us – through the food and beverage choices we make every day.
Many people want to believe this process is done humanely, but the reality is far from that. I think awareness is the first step toward compassion – and compassion changes everything!
The good news is that when we make even slight adjustments, like switching from meat to plant-based options or choosing non-dairy alternatives like oat, soy, or almond milk, we can make a huge impact on both our health and the welfare of animals.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
That I stood up for animals – that I worked with and walked alongside other successful, kind, loving, animal rights activists and advocates.
That I truly cared for animals, and that my greatest joy was found in their presence – in every bark, flutter, or gentle glance. They remind me of how connected we all are.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ShellyFitzpatrick.com
- Instagram: @IamShellyFitzpatrick
- Twitter: https://X.com/@ShellyFitzpAuth
- Facebook: @ShellyFitzpatrickAnimalRescue
- Youtube: @ShellyFitzpatrickProducer
- Other: https://www.IMDBme/ShellyFitzpatrick
Image Credits
Photos by: Dmitry Zhitov
Hair and MakeUp by: Julia Brig
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
