The A-Team

PAULA FICARA, Executive Director  &  STEVE WASTELL, Lead of Operations

In 2009, Paula Ficara and Steve Wastell discovered a place that would change the course of their lives forever; a young wolfdog rescue just getting its start in Los Angeles County. With a lifelong love of wildlife, particularly wolves, they found themselves volunteering as much time as possible to the growth and development of the small rescue, eventually leaving their former careers behind to become full-time staff members. In 2014, with their true passion being realized and a strong desire to fulfill their mission, Paula and Steve created Apex Protection Project. Since then, they’ve continued to help rescue and rehabilitate wolves and wolfdogs, developed educational events and programs, and have been active advocates for both captive-bred wolves and wolfdogs and wolves in the wild. The goal of Apex Protection Project is to continue the quest of protecting wolves and wolfdogs through educational experiences, rescue, and advocacy with the dream of living in a world where the wolf and all species are highly valued, protected and respected for the balance they bring to the ecosystem and for the gifts they offer to humanity.

Ian Winer

Ian Winer is an investor, philosopher, writer and public speaker who connects people to the truth of market places and human behavior. A regular contributor to CNBC, Fox Business, The Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg, and Reuters, to name just a few, he is known for seeking connections through non-consensus thinking and making it relatable to everyone. 

MARGARETA MORRO, MBA

Originally from Switzerland, Margareta has worked in many industries with responsibilities involving financial compliance and operational processes with Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Public Education. She is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of extensive experience in international finance, administration and accounting with extensive teaching experience. Today she oversees global finance operations for a US headquartered humanitarian not-for-profit organization. Margareta realized from an early age that animals are a critical part of her life. Upon moving to the US in 2009 she started volunteering at the Wetlands and Wildlife Center in Huntington Beach, CA where she soon was leading the weekend shift to ensure that injured wildlife would get the first assessment and proper treatment upon arrival. During that time, she was also appointed to the Board of Wetlands and Wildlife Center.

SUZI LANDOLPHI

PATHH facilitator at Boulder Crest Retreat for Military & Veteran Wellness, Clinical Director and Co-founder at BIG Heart Ranch, Malibu.

Before becoming a therapist, Suzi managed professional theater companies in Boston, directed live theater, wrote several feature film scripts that were produced and directed a short film. In 2003, Suzi earned her Master’s degree in Clinical and Community Psychology at Antioch University and became certified in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Suzi created her own EAP program called Horse Inspired Growth and Healing (HIGH) and Horse Inspired Psychotherapy (HIP), an experiential horse program that increases personal insight, inspires emotional and spiritual healing and encourages behavior change. In 2006, Suzi co-founded BIG Heart Ranch, www.bigheartranch.org, in Malibu, California that provides HIGH and HIP services to children, families, veterans and treatment centers healing from trauma and mental health issues. Since January 2007, Suzi has been providing horse related activities to Native American youth through her program called Red Horse Nation, www.redhorsenation.org, a division of Lifesavers, Inc. RHN provides Native American Horse Inspired Growth and Healing (NAHIGH) and Psychotherapy (NAHIP) services to Native American youth and families with the support from traditional Native principles, practitioners and culture as well as sound clinical practices.  As Vice President of Lifesavers, Inc., (www.wildhorserescue.org) America’s largest wild horse rescue, Suzi and the Lifesavers staff help veterans, suffering from trauma and PTSD, heal through their Wild Horse Warrior Journey where veterans are taught to gentle wild horses. Suzi also works as a therapeutic facilitator for Boulder Crest Retreat’s Warrior PATHH and for other veteran and military family programs such as Gold Star Families and the EOD Warrior Foundation.

TODD GEORGE, CPA, JD

Todd’s career in corporate finance has included leadership roles in tax, treasury, finance, IT and supply chain management at several publically traded multi-national corporations. In addition to traditional corporate finance responsibilities, Todd participated in the establishment, operation and compliance for both Private Foundations and Donor Advised Funds created by his corporate employers to support the communities in which the respective companies operated. Todd has had a passion for the well being of animals since childhood that has led him to provide a permanent home to numerous rescued pets and provide continuing financial support to numerous animal welfare and environmental organizations. Todd brings extensive business experience to our Board to help guide the continuing expansion of operations as we pursue our mission.

YUKA KOBAYASHI

Yuka Kobayashi has over 20 years of experience in the Entertainment Industry and is the Co-Founder of Trifecsome Media, LLC, consulting, creating, and executing high level strategy for digital, social, and original content.  Formerly the Director of New Media and Alternative Content at Stan Lee's POW! Entertainment for the past 15 years she developed and produced content across all verticals: web, social, video, gaming, live events, publishing and consumer products.  With a previous background of 10+ years of on-set experience, Ms. Kobayashi has also transitioned to being a Producer of numerous independent feature films, music videos, web series, and digital shorts as well as an Advisor on several startup companies in Technology, Entertainment and Consumer Products. 

NICOLE WILDE

Nicole is an internationally recognized, award-winning author and lecturer, as well as a professional canine behavior specialist. She has specifically worked with rescued wolves and wolfdogs for over twenty years and is considered an expert in the field. She was Executive Director for Villalobos Rescue Center, a sanctuary for rescued wolves and wolfdogs, as well as pit bulls and exotic animals, and specialized in socializing the fearful wolves who were to live out their lives at the center. Nicole has presented wolfdog education seminars to animal control officers, schools and specialty groups. Her eleven books include So You Want to be a Dog Trainer, Help for Your Fearful Dog, and Wolfdogs A-Z: Behavior, Training and More. Nicole presents seminars worldwide at conferences and for training clubs, humane societies, and other groups. Nicole is also a photographer and artist who loves to use her talents to help animals in need.

Sally SeelEy

Sally comes to Apex with a lifetime love of all animals large and small. Her background includes a 25+ year career with the PA Department of Agriculture in which she was involved with many divisions, including animal health.

She has many years of board experience with the Central PA Arthritis Foundation, including serving in positions of all chairs levels, the most recent being Board Chair and serving as Regional Vice Chair during the Foundations reorganization. Sally currently resides in Arizona with her dog Cooper and visits Paula, Steve and the pack whenever possible.

Caroline AKA "Wolf", Social Media Manager

Caroline, who goes by “Wolf”, is a full-time American Sign Language interpreter and graduate of Cal State University, Northridge. Raised with a love for wolves, her passion grew through her volunteer work in wolf and wolfdog sanctuaries in 2013. Engaging in animal rescue, she found purpose at Apex Protection Project, combining her love for animal advocacy and wolves. Wolf plans to pursue a master's degree in public administration in the near future to benefit nonprofits like Apex. In the meantime, Caroline manages social media for Apex, sharing their mission and rescue pack with a global audience. Through daily posts on social media, Apex has been able to amass millions of new followers who have fallen in love with the Apex Pack and the organization’s mission to save wolves through rescue, rehabilitation, advocacy and education.

Email Wolf regarding social media at Caroline@apexprotectionproject.org

Chelsea, Lead of Pack Healthcare

Chelsea, RVT, has had a strong passion for animal welfare and husbandry since a small child. She began working with wolves and wolfdogs in 2009, which sparked her interest in wolf advocacy and rescue. Aside from her volunteer work with Apex, she works full time in the ER/ICU department of a veterinary specialty hospital in Hollywood. Chelsea has been a Veterinary Technician since 2011, with a background in exotic and avian patients. She uses her veterinary background and resources to ensure that the Apex Pack has access to the best veterinary care possible. 

Oksana, Lead of Operations

As a Lead at the sanctuary, I dedicate my time to caring for and nurturing our wolves. My connection to wolves runs deep—it’s part of my family legacy. Growing up, I was affectionately called “wolf cub,” a name passed down through generations. My great-grandfather, after returning from World War II, spent his life in the woods and was known as “the wolf.” The name carried on to my grandfather and, eventually, to me. Wolves have always been more than animals to my family; they symbolize strength, connection, and spirit.

Beyond my work at the sanctuary, I’m a professional dancer, performing since I was able to walk, and continue to share this passion through vibrant performances. I’ve also earned diplomas in astrology and human design, offering readings to help people reconnect with their true selves. My path has led me to spiritual gatherings and advocacy work for wildlife and the protection of indigenous peoples, blending my love for nature, animals, and healing.

For me, working with these incredible creatures is more than a role—it’s a calling to honor my family’s legacy and ensure wolves thrive for generations to come.

Annalyn

Annalyn started volunteering at Apex in 2024. Annalyn is a Registered Nurse (BSN, RN, PHN) with experience from UCLA Medical Center as an adult and pediatric heart and lung transplant coordinator and cardio-thoracic ICU nurse. She is currently a Clinical Nurse Supervisor for pulmonary arterial hypertension and rare diseases for a national company and is completing her Master's degree in nursing health administration. Her love for all animals and recent experience with rare Osteosarcoma carcinoma of her German Shepherd, Kona, brought her to Apex through social media to extend her efforts in animal care after her loss. Wanting to be with the pack every week, she finds herself enraptured in learning about trust, temperance, and self-abnegation for the wolves. She values the new friendships at Apex from the crew and staff. 

“The care I extend to others is reciprocated by the care the wolves give to my soul. Our symbiotic relationship with wolves enlightens our journey through this life. A spirit animal indeed.” 

In her free time, she loves camping in the desert with her dogs and playing piano, flute, and a little ukulele to their undaunting doggie ears.

Bette

Bette has always had a strong love and respect for animals, especially wolves. Although her first path in life was the become an orchestra player, her passion for wildlife grew stronger. She met Steve in a Lowe's parking lot by chance and didn't hesitate to become a volunteer. Everything fell into place. After volunteering for several years, Bette accepted the position of Pack Care Manager. After six years, Bette decided to step back into a volunteer position to open up space for her to explore other avenues of her life. She remains an active and important part of Apex and is dedicated to protecting these amazing creatures alongside the equally amazing people in this community.

EMMY

Emmy graduated from high school in 2023 and plans on committing to a 4-year university to double major in wildlife medicine and sports medicine. She is a big fan of anything outdoors. 

She came to Apex for the first time in 2018 on a Girl Scout visiting trip, and after falling immediately in love with the pack and the team, she knew she had to join. She created the Junior Volunteer Program to earn her Silver Award for Girl Scouts and she looks forward to continuing developing the program as well as spending more time at Apex.

ERIKA, North Carolina Advocacy Representative

Erika Mates has worked as a financial advisor since 2005. She lived in the high desert of California for 4 years where she encountered several abused and abandoned animals that needed help. Because of this, Erika recognized the immediate need for rescue and animal welfare advocacy. She was able to rescue numerous cats and dogs from the desert, getting them the vet care they needed and finding them forever homes. She began volunteering with Apex in 2015 and fell deeply in love with the pack as well as the Apex mission. Her passion for animals has only grown since joining the Apex Team, and she is committed to advocating for wolves until we see them living freely and untouched in the wild. Today she lives in Charlotte, North Carolina with her husband, young son, 3 cats, and 3 dogs. Since moving to North Carolina, she has continued to volunteer with Apex as an animal advocate, focusing on predator advocacy. Currently she is working to end wildlife killing contests in the state of North Carolina and advocating for the endangered red wolf.

grace

Grace has always had a passionate love for all nature and wildlife. She started at Apex as a junior volunteer in 2019 and was the youngest volunteer to graduate into the adult program. Grace is currently attending college to major in Biological Sciences with an emphasis on Fish and Wildlife and Ecology Management to further the research performed on ecosystems in Yellowstone. We are so proud of Grace and can't wait to see where life takes her! Grace "graces" us with her presence when on break from college!

Jen AKA “WIGGY”

Jen AKA “Wiggy” came to Apex out of sheer love, admiration and respect for wolves and wolf dogs. She has her own pack at home with her two wolf dogs that she raised since they were pups, so it’s no surprise that she feels such a powerful connection to them.

She visited Apex during Sedona Wolf Week as a guest, fell in love with the pack and decided then and there she was going to expand her heart from just her wolfy family at home, to include the Apex pack and become a dedicated member of it.

JOLIÉ

Southern California born and raised, Jolie has been an ASL interpreter in the K-12 school system for over 25 years. It’s Jolie’s passion to facilitate communication to help her students understand and succeed. As a child her family raised a wolfdog but “Banjo” chose Jolie and her father as his own. They shared this bond for years and never forgot their beloved boy. After Jolie’s father passed, she sought out that bond again eventually finding Apex Protection Project where she dialed into that energy and hasn’t looked back. Being a part of Apex lets her connect and honor her Dad and Banjo’s spirits as well as allowing her to be a servant to this wonderful community. “It takes a village…” She truly loves taking part in Apex’s growth and development. Snuggles and kisses from the pack ain’t too bad either!

Lisa, Rescue and Adoption Dept.

Lisa fell in love with wolves for the first time after hiking with the Apex pack as a guest. One howl and she was hooked! After stalking the social media pages for a while, she took the leap to join the volunteer team, which has quickly become a volunteer family. She is proud to be continually learning how to care for, work with, and advocate for the species while building individual relationships with each of the Apex pack members.

When she is not at Apex, Lisa trains dogs and their human companions, and often has a full house of dogs that are boarding with her. She also is the Director of Adoptions at Live Love Animal Rescue in Long Beach, CA. On her down time, you can find her snuggling her 4-pack of dogs - Drogo, Zeppelin, Boomer, & Frannie! 

Email Lisa regarding rescue and adoptions at lisa@apexprotectionproject.org

Pepa

Pepa has had a love for animals since she started rescuing stray kittens in her backyard as a kid. Having grown up on the East Coast, she moved to LA in 2018 to continue her career in post-production. She first started volunteering at an animal rescue when she fostered (and immediately foster failed) her dog, Arya, during the pandemic. Since then, she's volunteered at two rescues and fostered many more pups until they found their forever homes. Pepa first heard about Apex through her tattoo artist and fell in love with the pack after meeting them. 

During the week, Pepa spends her time as an editor and graphics artist working mostly on docu-series and unscripted television. She spends her weekends at Apex, learning to be a caretaker for the wolves and strengthening her connections with the pack.

Rami

Rami is a speech pathologist. She has worked in various hospitals for 12 years and is passionate about rehabilitation, both for humans and animals. Growing up with influences of spirituality in her life, she always had a deep love and respect for nature and animals. She found Apex Protection Project on Instagram, went on their website and scheduled a hike. After meeting the pack, she fell in love and signed up to volunteer. These days she lives too far away to make it over there regularly, but helps out remotely with advocacy work.

Sarah, Pack Healthcare Team

Sarah is originally from Green Bay, Wisconsin, but has called California home for almost a decade. Her commitment to animal welfare is reflected in her career as a vet technician, particularly thriving in the challenging environment of the ER. Over the last four years, Sarah has specialized in caring for wolves and wolf-dogs. Since joining Apex in early 2023, Sarah has seamlessly integrated her passion for ensuring animals lead fulfilling lives into her role. At Apex, she is dedicated to providing healthcare guidance and compassionate care to the wolves. Her genuine love for animals extends beyond her professional duties, as she is involved with Canine Rescue Club and The Newfoundland Club of Southern California, where she gives her time to fostering dogs on the side.

Saren

When not volunteering with wolves, Saren is an indie game developer.  Her love for land wolves and the wolves of the sea began at an age young enough to pronounce their names and old enough to draw them semi-legibly with Crayolas. During quarantine, she discovered Apex through social media and scheduled a tour in 2024. A month after looking into Rama’s eyes, she applied to volunteer when the orientation notice went out and has been part of the team ever since.  

Stacey, Donor Relations Team

Stacey first fell in love with wolves and wolfdogs after attending a retreat at a wolf sanctuary in Colorado. This transformative experience sparked a deep spiritual connection with these incredible animals and inspired her to seek out Apex Protection Project to further her journey in wolf advocacy and care.

When she’s not volunteering at Apex, Stacey works as a social worker in private practice, supporting individuals recovering from eating disorders and trauma. She enjoys spending time with her two dogs, Athena and Gracie, and tending to her collection of plants. A lover of the outdoors, Stacey finds peace in hiking and kayaking and contributes to marine conservation through her work with marine mammal rescue and response.

Email Stacey regarding donations at stacey@apexprotectionproject.org

Tim

As Owner and Executive Producer for Lockbox Productions (NYC/LA), Tim has been leading teams for over 20 years. Working with many Fortune 500 Companies, and dozens of award-winning Advertising Agencies, he has worked around the globe on major campaigns for television and other media. During those two decades, his production house worked on and completed over 600 projects in over 20 countries, and in all 50 States. Currently based out of Santa Monica, he spends any spare time staying active in the mountains, in the water, and volunteering whenever possible.