🎀 Want to keep your pet stylish and support a small business? In this fun and inspiring episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with Diana—the creative force behind Dainty Paws, a brand known for its playful and fashionable pet accessories. 💡 In this episode: How Dainty Paws got started and what makes it unique The ups and downs of running a small business in the pet industry Why community, creativity, and connection matter Em’s favorite Dainty Paws pieces (and how her dogs wear them with f...
Mar 26, 2025•38 min•Season 9Ep. 67
💛 Yes, you can prepare for pet loss—and find peace in the process. In this powerful follow-up episode, Em sits down with Beth Bigler from Honoring Our Animals to talk about anticipatory grief, emotional preparedness, and what it means to love and let go —before the goodbye even happens. This conversation holds space for anyone already feeling the heartbreak of knowing their time with a beloved dog is limited. Em also shares how Beth’s group sessions have helped her process anticipatory loss wit...
Mar 19, 2025•54 min•Season 9Ep. 66
🐾 Curious about optimizing your dog’s health through better nutrition? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Jaron Lukas, founder of YumWoof and author of The Cocoa Mega Effect, to explore the science behind canine nutrition and wellness. 💡 You’ll learn: Why fresh, minimally processed food matters Key takeaways from Jaron’s book The Cocoa Mega Effect How YumWoof is redefining dog food Tips for supporting your dog’s long-term health From groundbreaking research to real-life...
Mar 12, 2025•38 min•Season 9Ep. 65
🍴 Curious about how your dog’s diet and supplements impact their health? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by certified canine nutritionist Nelly from The Combine Dog to break down the essentials of canine nutrition. 💡 You’ll learn: How to build a more balanced bowl Key tips for selecting supplements What to look for in your dog’s diet Why small changes can make a big impact Whether you’re raw feeding, kibble feeding, or somewhere in between—this episode is packed with acti...
Mar 05, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Season 8Ep. 64
🐾 Ever wondered how to turn your pet’s Instagram account into a profitable platform? This week on Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Sarah from Zero Highway to talk content creation, strategy, and what it really takes to grow your pet’s online presence. Whether you're just starting out or ready to level up, Sarah shares: How she turned her love for dogs into a thriving business Tips for understanding and working with the algorithm Ways to build community through authenticity How to create ...
Feb 26, 2025•40 min•Season 8Ep. 63
🐕🦺 Ever wondered what it’s really like to train your own service dog? This week on Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Haylee, who shares the highs and lows of training her service dog from puppyhood. In this open and honest conversation, Haylee breaks down: The biggest challenges of training a service dog solo Misconceptions about service animals and public access How she handled people (and employees!) who didn’t understand the law Her experience with the letter of medical necessity What ...
Feb 19, 2025•45 min•Season 8Ep. 62
🐾 Ever felt alone navigating life with a complex dog? You’re not. This episode dives deep into the emotional toll and powerful growth that comes from the human-canine connection. This week on Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Jess from Handlers & Humans to discuss the human side of training—mental health, emotional capacity, and what it really takes to support dogs with big feelings. 💛 In this conversation, you’ll hear: Jess’s story of navigating life with her dog Dio Why mental health...
Feb 12, 2025•55 min•Season 8Ep. 61
🐾 Looking for easy, affordable, and space-friendly ways to enrich your dog’s daily life? This week on Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Lauren from Sit. Stay. Stella to share realistic enrichment tips for everyday pet parents. Whether you live in a small space or have a tight budget, this conversation proves that enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive or overwhelming to be effective. ✨ In this episode, we cover: Why enrichment isn’t just for high-energy dogs How to use common household ite...
Feb 05, 2025•47 min•Season 8Ep. 60
🐾 The rescue world can be as heartbreaking as it is rewarding. This week on Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Bridget from Wild Wolfe Pack Treats to talk about the raw truths behind rescue work—overpopulation, tough decisions, and the emotional cost of caring deeply. ✨ In this episode, we explore: What no one tells you about animal rescue Why compassion fatigue is real and valid How Bridget prioritizes self-care in a world that never stops needing help Tips for protecting your heart whil...
Jan 29, 2025•51 min•Season 8Ep. 59
🐾 Ever felt judged for the dog you love—or for who you are? This week on Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Rob and Laurel for a raw and meaningful conversation about breed discrimination, human judgment, and the deep-rooted stigmas in the dog world. ✨ In this episode, we unpack: The reality of living with misunderstood breeds How human stereotypes mirror dog breed biases Why kindness is more powerful than correction The bravery it takes to ask for help—and offer it Whether you're a pet pare...
Jan 22, 2025•42 min•Season 8Ep. 58
🍄 Ever wondered if mushrooms could help your dog thrive? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Devin, the founder of Mush Buddies—a small business on a big mission to improve canine wellness with functional mushroom supplements. From immune support to anti-inflammatory benefits, Devin shares how specific mushroom blends can transform your dog’s daily routine. 🎧 Inside this episode: Why mushrooms are becoming a go-to tool in holistic pet care The science and safety behind ...
Jan 15, 2025•39 min•Season 8Ep. 57
🌟 What if second chances could save lives—on both ends of the leash? In this powerful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Zach Skow, founder of Marley’s Mutts and the transformative Pawsitive Change Program. From surviving end-stage liver disease to building one of the most impactful prison dog programs in the country, Zach shares how purpose, redemption, and the human-animal bond saved him—and now saves countless others. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: How the Pawsitive Chang...
Jan 08, 2025•39 min•Season 7Ep. 56
🌟 What happens when your first dog training mentor becomes your closest friend? In this deeply personal episode, Em reconnects with Sailor Jerri, the trainer who helped her find her footing—and her voice—in the dog world. 🎧 Inside this episode: How Em and Jerri’s relationship evolved from mentor-mentee to friends The hard but honest lessons they’ve both learned in training and life How trauma, social media, and community shaped their work Why friendship matters just as much as training techniq...
Jan 01, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Season 7Ep. 55
🐾 Thinking about fostering a dog? You need to hear this first. 🐾 In this eye-opening episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Caitlin, who bravely shares her heartbreaking experience fostering Ruby—a journey that revealed the darker side of rescue work. Left unsupported by the rescue, Caitlin paid for all of Ruby’s care out of pocket, was given no help, and had to rehome Ruby herself. Her story sheds light on the importance of: Researching rescues before agreeing to foster Ensuring ...
Dec 25, 2024•37 min•Season 7Ep. 54
🐾 Ever wondered how dogs land roles in movies, TV shows, and commercials? This week on Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with Chrissy , the talented trainer and dog mom behind The Joy Crew —a pack of five incredible dogs working in the entertainment industry! From unexpected beginnings to major productions, Chrissy shares: What it takes to train a dog for set life The difference between tricks and set-specific cues How The Joy Crew stays calm, confident, and camera-ready What pet parents can lear...
Dec 18, 2024•43 min•Season 7Ep. 53
🐶 On this powerful episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Ashley from Flag the Breeders to explore the harsh reality of the shelter overpopulation crisis. From red flags in backyard breeding to practical advice for choosing a dog responsibly, Ashley sheds light on how misinformation and impulse decisions fuel a growing crisis—and what we can do to change it. 🎧 In this episode: Warning signs of unethical breeding and puppy mills How shelters are overwhelmed and why rescue matters W...
Dec 11, 2024•51 min•Season 7Ep. 52
🐾 Ever wish there was an easier way to find dog-friendly places near you? On this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with Sarah from Spot Dog Here , the genius behind the app that’s helping dog parents explore the world—one paw print at a time. Sarah shares: How Spot Dog Here helps you find pet-friendly cafes, parks, shops, and more The inspiration behind the app and her journey creating it How you can enhance your adventures with your pup—whether you’re local or on the go! If you love ...
Dec 04, 2024•41 min•Season 7Ep. 51
✨ What happens when you follow your heart instead of your degree? On this powerful milestone episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Jess from Pupsibilities to explore her inspiring journey from chiropractor to full-time animal advocate. Together they talk about: Why Jess shifted careers to pursue animal advocacy How kindness can transform lives—both human and canine Ways you can start supporting rescues and speaking up for voiceless animals The mission behind Pupsibilities and how i...
Nov 27, 2024•45 min•Season 7Ep. 50
✨ What if you could change the world before your 13th birthday? On this week’s episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Divisha , the incredible 12-year-old founder of Bow Bow Ties , a handmade pet accessory business that’s already donated over $5,000 to animal shelters! Divisha shares: How she started her business at just 9 years old What inspires her to give back to animals in need How she balances school, family, and running a mission-driven brand The heartwarming story of welcomin...
Nov 20, 2024•40 min•Season 7Ep. 49
🐾 Ever feel like your dog is trying to tell you something, but you’re not sure what it is? This week’s episode of Straight Up Dog Talk is here to help. Join Em as she sits down with Kim Brophy , renowned applied ethologist, author of Meet Your Dog , and creator of the LEGS® Framework . Together, they explore how understanding your dog’s behavior through the lens of Learning, Environment, Genetics, and Self can transform your relationship. In this episode, you’ll hear: Em’s personal journey thro...
Nov 13, 2024•53 min•Season 6Ep. 48
🐶 Ever wish your dog had a safe place to run free without the chaos of a crowded dog park? You’re not alone—and SniffSpot has the answer. This week on Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with David, CEO and Founder of SniffSpot , the innovative app making it easier than ever to rent private yards, fields, and even indoor spaces for off-leash dog play. In this episode, you'll learn: How SniffSpot is changing the game for dog guardians everywhere Why safe, controlled environments are so important for...
Nov 06, 2024•48 min•Season 6Ep. 47
🐾 What happens when compassion meets action? You get Ruger’s Rescues —a rescue with heart and purpose. This week on Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Jill, founder of Ruger’s Rescues, an organization dedicated to helping women and their pets escape domestic violence and unsafe situations. Jill shares the story behind the mission, the real-life impact of their work, and how education and resources can change lives. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Ruger’s Rescues supports women fleeing ...
Oct 30, 2024•53 min•Season 6Ep. 46
🐾 What if dog training could change the world—not just your relationship with your dog? On this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Andrea from Pack Animals to talk all things kindness, training, and connection. Andrea is on a mission to create a ripple effect—starting with dogs and spreading into the community. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why positive reinforcement training matters for dogs and humans How the Pack Animals app is making training more accessible What makes The...
Oct 23, 2024•1 hr 56 min•Season 6Ep. 45
🐾 Ever wondered what a vet behaviorist does—or when to call one? On this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Dr. Kelly Ballantyne, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and founder of Insightful Animals , to unpack what’s really going on in our dogs’ minds. In this episode, you’ll learn: What a vet behaviorist is and how they can support your dog Insightful tools for navigating reactivity and separation anxiety Why understanding dog behavior is the key to better communication...
Oct 16, 2024•1 hr•Season 6Ep. 44
🐾 Ever wonder what makes biothane gear so special? On this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em chats with Tayrn, the passionate creator behind BioDanes , a custom biothane gear company for dogs who love adventure. In this episode, you’ll learn: What biothane is—and why it's a game-changer for dog gear How BioDanes creates custom pieces that fit your dog’s unique shape and style Behind-the-scenes of Tayrn’s life running her business from a bus! Em’s personal experience using BioDanes and why sh...
Oct 09, 2024•55 min•Season 6Ep. 43
🐾 What does it mean to train with both structure and heart? On this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em sits down with Mark from Rosewood K9 , a balanced trainer who brings empathy, intention, and care into every session. In this episode, you’ll learn: What heart-centered training really looks like How board-and-train programs can work when done thoughtfully Why kindness and structure can—and should—coexist Real-world tips for becoming a more confident, compassionate handler Whether you're new...
Oct 02, 2024•49 min•Season 6Ep. 42
🐾 Ready to unlock the next level of canine wellness? In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk , Em is joined by Tannisha from PetMatRx to explore the science behind biohacking for dogs and the revolutionary cell-matrix delivery system . You’ll learn: What biohacking actually means for your dog Why absorption matters more than just ingredients How the Thrive Pack is changing the supplement game How you can help your dog truly thrive , not just survive Whether you're new to supplements or looking ...
Sep 25, 2024•52 min•Season 6Ep. 41
🐾 What would you do if your senior rescue was diagnosed with cancer? For Kailynn, the answer was simple: give Pippa the best days of her life—full of joy, comfort, and adventure. This week on Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Kailynn to celebrate the beautiful bond she shared with Pippa, a senior rescue whose story has touched countless hearts. From building a heartfelt bucket list to spreading love and awareness for senior dogs, Kailynn reminds us what it means to show up—every single da...
Sep 18, 2024•47 min•Season 5Ep. 40
🐾 What happens when a self-proclaimed non-dog person adopts a high-energy Vizsla? You get Kenzi and Dobby—a story full of laughter, surprises, and Vizsla-sized love. This week on Straight Up Dog Talk , Em and Josh sit down with Kenzi , who shares how her life completely changed after adopting Dobby. From zoomies to content creation, Kenzi’s journey into dog mom life is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming. Whether you're curious about the Vizsla breed or just need a feel-good story, this epis...
Sep 11, 2024•45 min•Season 5Ep. 39
🐾 “It was just a dog.”If you’ve heard that before while grieving, this episode is for you. This week on Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Beth Bigler, certified Pet Loss & Grief Counselor and founder of Honoring Our Animals. Together, they dive into the emotional reality of losing a beloved pet—why it hurts so much, how to cope, and how to find support in a world that often doesn’t understand. Beth provides comfort, clarity, and compassion for pet parents navigating loss. If you’re gr...
Sep 04, 2024•55 min•Season 5Ep. 38
