Cats That Kept Him Going: How David Maeda's Cats Shaped His Story. Your host, Julie Marty-Pearson sits down with David Maeda to trace that arc from his first cat, Mr Max, to a home shaped by bonded pairs, big personalities, and the kind of attachment that turns ordinary days into a shared routine you never want to lose.David  adopted Max in college and discovered what “cat people” mean when they talk about connection. From hilarious moments like a drooling purr to the ache of coming home after a pet dies, we stay with the full emotional range of cat ownership. David also shares how cat math happens: adopting two cats together after a loss, bringing home a three-legged rescue, and learning that even bonded cats can leave someone feeling left out.Because David’s memoir includes a chapter dedicated to his cats, the conversation goes deeper into memory, storytelling, and why writing about animals can be both healing and heartbreaking. We also talk openly about depression, anxiety, and high-stress years in public service, including his work as Minnesota’s director of elections, and how caring for cats can keep you grounded when your mind is pulling you under. Along the way, we touch on Feline Rescue in St Paul, volunteering, cat shelters overwhelmed by animals who lose their person, and why every pet guardian should have a plan for who would step in.To learn more about David, visit his Website or buy his book This is Not Who We Are Support the showSupport the Podcast by Buying Us a Treat via Buy Me a CoffeeShop our Affiliate Partners:🐾 Shop Mikko's Choice Use code 'storyofmypet' for 15% off🐾 Shop Superior Feline Use code “storyofmypet” for 15% off🐾 Shop Nuvita CBD for people Use code 'Julie10' for 10% offLoved this episode? Leave a review and rating hereThe Story of My Pet Podcast and Blog- Website - Instagram - FacebookContact your host via Email- [email protected] with your host, Dr. Julie Marty-Pearson – Website - YouTube - Instagram - Facebook - LinkedIn