🐾 Life throws us curveballs—but somehow, dogs help us catch them. In this heartfelt episode, Em and Josh sit down with Tanya to talk about how her dog Barney brought light and friendship during unexpected life shifts. 💡 Tanya shares: How a simple trip to the dog park turned into community The emotional support dogs offer during hard times Why dogs have a unique way of helping us connect with others 🎧 Whether you love dog parks or not, this episode is a feel-good reminder that dogs often lead ...
Aug 28, 2024•44 min•Season 5Ep. 37
🐾 Ever feel like your dog is trying to teach you something? On this heartfelt episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Douglas Green, therapist and author of The Teachings of Shirelle: Life Lessons from a Divine Knucklehead. This touching, humorous, and profound book explores the emotional wisdom we gain from our dogs—and Em thinks it’s a must-read for every pet parent. Doug shares unforgettable stories of his dog Shirelle and how her mischief, devotion, and pure presence shaped his life....
Aug 21, 2024•55 min•Season 5Ep. 36
🎧 Is it possible to support both rescue and responsible breeding? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with Carly, an ethical breeder and owner of Dare to Dream Dahls, to break down one of the most debated topics in the dog world—ethical breeding. Carly shares her honest take on what it means to breed responsibly, the systems she has in place to protect the dogs she brings into the world, and how she advocates for transparency, education, and ethical standards. 💡 Insid...
Aug 14, 2024•52 min•Season 5Ep. 36
🎧 Ever feel like your dog’s still bouncing off the walls after a walk? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Megan, the creative force behind Mind Game of the Month—a monthly subscription box designed to level up your dog’s mental and physical enrichment. Together, they explore how meeting your dog’s needs beyond just physical exercise can improve behavior, confidence, and overall well-being. If you're tired of boredom-fueled chaos or want to add more purpose to playtime, t...
Aug 07, 2024•44 min•Season 5Ep. 34
🎧 Ever wonder what it's like to look back at where your dog training journey began—and realize how far you've come? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em reconnects with Angie, Fitz’s very first trainer and the founder of Pack Leaders Dog Training. They take a walk down memory lane, sharing honest reflections, laughs, and lessons from the early days of Fitz's training. Whether you're just getting started or reflecting on how your own beliefs around training have evolved, this episode is ...
Jul 30, 2024•49 min•Season 5Ep. 33
What does it really mean to rely on a service dog? In this powerful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Jaime to explore the realities of living with a disability—and how service dogs like Echo and Everest provide critical support, independence, and comfort. Together, Em and Jaime break down: What service dog tasks actually look like in real life Why vests and appearances don’t make a dog a service animal How accessibility and advocacy go hand-in-hand The dangers of misinformation...
Jul 24, 2024•44 min•Season 4Ep. 32
🌵 What’s it like raising four dogs off the grid in the desert? In this lighthearted episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Laurel and Rob about life with Eden, Freya, Athena, and the unforgettable Thor—plus a new pup added to the mix! 💬 In this episode, you’ll hear: What it’s like to live with multiple dogs in the remote desert How their adventures turned into everyday routines The joys and chaos of content creation with a full dog crew Why Thor steals the spotlight—and everyone’s hear...
Jul 17, 2024•47 min•Season 4Ep. 31
🐾 What happens when a misunderstood breed meets a passionate advocate? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with Aaron—aka “the assistant”—and the one and only Sweet GiGi to explore how community, compassion, and education can shift the narrative around bully breeds. 💬 In this episode, you’ll learn: How Sweet GiGi became a symbol of hope for her breed Why the Bully Breed Bunch is creating waves in the dog community The importance of representation, advocacy, and safe socializatio...
Jul 10, 2024•48 min•Season 4Ep. 30
Before the podcast, before the certifications, before Fitz and Toby—there was Cajun. In this deeply personal episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Josh takes over as host to guide Em through Part 1 of her story. From childhood memories to the pivotal moment of adopting Toby, Em opens up about the dogs who shaped her, the medical challenges that changed her path, and how love, grief, and growth all played a role in becoming who she is today. 💬 Inside this episode: • The story of Cajun and the grief ...
Jul 03, 2024•43 min•Season 4Ep. 29
What happens when your dog’s needs change your entire routine? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em and Josh sit down with Erika to chat about her hilarious dogs Jax and Wyatt . What starts as a lighthearted convo about shredded stuffies and swimming dogs takes an emotional turn as Erika opens up about Wyatt’s severe separation anxiety —and how her family has stepped up to meet his needs. 💬 Inside this episode: • Real talk about what separation anxiety can look like • Routines Erika bui...
Jun 26, 2024•50 min•Season 4Ep. 28
Ever wish you could sit in on a real training consult before hiring a dog trainer? In this insightful and unfiltered episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em and Josh hand the mic over to friend and sister podcast cohost Mattison from Freed by Training for a blind intake session with pet parent Madisyn (Maddie) . 💬 You’ll hear: • What it’s really like to meet with a professional trainer for the first time • Red (and green!) flags to look for during consults • How trainers ask questions to get to th...
Jun 19, 2024•43 min•Season 4Ep. 27
🧠 Ever wondered if CBD could help your anxious or sensitive dog? In this educational episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em and Josh sit down with Cheryl , the owner and founder of Fat Sam’s for Pets . From fireworks anxiety to daily stressors, Cheryl shares how her homemade, human-grade CBD products support pets—and why transparency and safety matter. 💛 In this episode, you’ll learn: • The story behind Fat Sam’s for Pets and the CBD journey • When and why CBD can be helpful for your dog • What ...
Jun 12, 2024•49 min•Season 4Ep. 26
🐾 Sometimes the best dogs come from the plans you never meant to make—and the fosters you couldn’t let go. In this uplifting episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with Joel, a pet parent who went from heartbreak to healing through two unforgettable dogs: Abner and Cass. What started as a plan to foster quickly turned into a double foster fail—and a heart full of snuggles, joy, and second chances. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear: • Joel’s story of loss, rescue, and embracing bull...
Jun 05, 2024•46 min•Season 4Ep. 25
🐶 What’s it really like to care for five dogs while running a business—and still show up for your own mental health? In this powerful and relatable episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Denise, guardian to Tulip, Ava, Dilly, Bear, and Jax and the creative force behind The Doggy Den, a shop for personalized pet products. Denise shares what it’s like managing a multi-dog household while navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and mental health—and how she’s built a community roo...
May 29, 2024•48 min•Season 3Ep. 24
🐾 Separation anxiety can feel overwhelming—but with a plan, support, and patience, progress is possible. In this heartfelt and hopeful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Kendra, a nurse and devoted dog mom to Luka, who shares her real-life experience navigating separation anxiety. From panic-filled mornings to developing a workable routine, Kendra walks us through what it’s taken to help Luka feel safe—and what she’s learned in the process. 💛 In this episode, you’ll learn: • What...
May 22, 2024•48 min•Season 3Ep. 23
⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains graphic details and emotional discussion surrounding severe aggression, idiopathic rage syndrome, and humane euthanasia. It is not intended for children and may not be suitable for all environments. Please use headphones and care while listening. Being a dog guardian comes with incredible love—but also unimaginable responsibility. In this powerful and emotional episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em and guest Lana share their personal stories of living wit...
May 15, 2024•43 min•Season 3Ep. 22
🌿🐶 What do thriving houseplants and happy dogs have in common? As it turns out—quite a lot. In this light and joyful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em is joined by her plant-loving, dog-devoted friend Felicia , known for her fun and informative content on both pups and plants. From caring for greenery to navigating life with her dogs Larry and Daryl , Felicia shares stories that are both heartfelt and hilarious. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear: • How Felicia balances life with dogs and a ho...
May 08, 2024•36 min•Season 3Ep. 21
🐾 What if one little beagle could change how you feel about dogs forever? In this heartwarming episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with Veeta , content creator and dog mom to the internet’s favorite beagle, Habby . Veeta opens up about how she overcame a fear of dogs and how Habby helped her rediscover joy, trust, and unconditional love. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear: • What daily life with a beagle really looks like • How Veeta transformed her fear into connection • Tips for tuning in...
May 01, 2024•43 min•Season 3Ep. 20
🐶 What happens when two dog trainers come together to talk about more than just skills—and dive into what truly matters? In this insightful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Denise Fenzi, founder of the Fenzi Dog Sports Academy and a powerful voice for humane, thoughtful dog training. Together, they explore training, sport, human behavior, and the importance of community in the dog world. It’s a feel-good, real-talk conversation that reflects the heart of what this podcast is all...
Apr 24, 2024•56 min•Season 3Ep. 19
🎗️ A cancer diagnosis in your dog changes everything—and every choice afterward feels deeply personal. In this powerful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Alexis, who shares her ongoing journey with her dog Buster following his cancer diagnosis. From chemo to nutrition, from holistic support to emotional healing, Alexis opens up about what has helped her family—and what she’s learned along the way while caring for Buster, Ella, and Hudson. 💛 In this episode, you’ll learn: • How...
Apr 17, 2024•37 min•Season 2Ep. 18
🐕 This episode is about more than dogs—it’s about friendship, grief, laughter, and the love that connects us through every season. In this special episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em is joined by longtime friends Josh and Jenn for a heartwarming, honest conversation about their life with rescue dogs. From welcoming multiple pups into their home to experiencing loss and reactivity, this episode weaves together the realities of being dog parents with the joy and connection that only a close-knit...
Apr 10, 2024•53 min•Season 3Ep. 17
🎉 Yes, Your Dog Can Learn Tricks (and Earn Titles) Without Leaving Home In this joyful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em and Josh chat with April from A Tale of Heelers about how she started trick training with her dogs, Holly and Smokey —and how it transformed their bond, confidence, and communication. 💛 In this episode, you’ll learn:• How to start trick training at home—even if you’re not competitive• Creative ways to keep your dog motivated and engaged• Where to earn virtual trick dog ti...
Apr 03, 2024•52 min•Season 2Ep. 16
💔 Imagine finding a stray dog, getting him back across the country to foster—and then learning he’s heartworm positive. In this emotional episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh sit down with Molly, who shares the powerful story of how she rescued and ultimately adopted Polo. From fostering across state lines to navigating heartworm treatment and recovery, Molly’s journey is a raw look at what it truly takes to advocate for a dog in need. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear: • The unbelievabl...
Mar 27, 2024•49 min•Season 2Ep. 15
🐾 What if two bananas and a big heart could help change the lives of shelter dogs? In this heartfelt episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Bridget , founder of Wild Wolfe Pack Treats, to talk about rescue, loss, and creating purpose through giving back. After losing a shelter dog she had grown attached to, Bridget decided to take action—and ended up starting a small business that helps long-stay dogs get seen and supported. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear: • How grief inspired Bri...
Mar 20, 2024•54 min•Season 2Ep. 14
🚫 Puppy mills, backyard breeders, and impulse buying are feeding a growing crisis in the rescue world—and we need to talk about it. In this powerful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em is joined by Ashley from Flag The Breeders , an advocate working to expose unethical breeding practices and educate the public. From shady Craigslist ads to social media “stud services,” Ashley breaks down the root causes of shelter overpopulation—and what we can all do to fight back. 💛 In this episode, you’ll ...
Mar 13, 2024•48 min•Season 2Ep. 13
💊 Not sure which supplements your dog really needs—or why? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em is joined by Tannisha from PetMatRx to break down the role of daily supplements in supporting your dog’s health, behavior, and energy. From boosting the immune system to calming anxious pups, this episode helps make sense of why supplementation matters and how to get started. 💛 In this episode, you’ll learn: • What’s in the PetMatRx Thrive Pack and how it works • The benefits of their new Ca...
Mar 06, 2024•46 min•Season 2Ep. 12
🌈 Have you ever lost a dog and felt like no one understood your grief? In this deeply emotional episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Ness (@theplantnessmonster), who vulnerably shares the story of losing her heart dog, Rex. From navigating guilt to the painful choice of in-home euthanasia, Ness gives voice to the quiet grief so many pet parents carry alone. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear: • Rex’s story and the deep bond they shared • The emotional toll of saying goodbye to your ...
Feb 28, 2024•54 min•Season 2Ep. 11
🐕🦺 Ever wondered what it’s like to care for four dogs—all with their own stories, personalities, and needs? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em and Josh sit down with Brittney to explore what it’s like managing a multi-dog household and navigating the early stages of service dog training. From building trust with rescues to supporting mental health, this conversation reflects on the individual needs of each dog—and the humans walking beside them. 💛 In this episode, you’ll hear: • Wh...
Feb 21, 2024•47 min•Season 2Ep. 10
🐾 Ever wonder who makes those cute, custom pet tags you see online—and why they matter? In this heartfelt episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with Melissa and Marina, the mom-and-daughter duo behind Tag4MyPet , a small business crafting personalized pet tags with purpose. From laser-engraved designs to hand-stamped creations, these tags aren’t just cute—they’re helping lost pets find their way home. 💛 In this episode, you'll learn: • How Tag4MyPet began with a love for rescue • The powe...
Feb 14, 2024•38 min•Season 2Ep. 9
You’re not alone. In this episode, Em sits down with Maddie from Brinkley’s Official LLC to talk about food sensitivities, overlooked ingredients, and how enrichment and nutrition go hand-in-hand. Maddie’s journey started with her own dog, Brinkley—and turned into a mission-driven small business helping other pet parents find relief, confidence, and creative solutions. 💛 In this episode, you’ll learn:• What Maddie discovered about common allergy triggers and hidden food ingredients• Why dog nut...
Feb 07, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 8
