Kinship - A Luchi & Mutton's Podcast

In this reflective episode, we explore the complex emotional landscape of guilt as it shows up in the lives of women who care for their dogs. From feeling guilty about leaving their pets home alone, to questioning if they’re doing “enough,” this conversation delves into how guilt can quietly shape daily caregiving choices. Rather than pushing the feeling away, the episode invites listeners to sit with their guilt - to notice its texture, its tone, and its message. What is your guilt trying to tell you? Through gentle reflection and observations, this episode guides women toward transforming guilt from a burden into a teacher, deepening both their self-compassion and their bond with their dogs.Want to know more about working with me? Check out Attune, my bespoke 1:1 coaching program for women dog guardians who are ready to transform their relationship with their dogs ♥️

☾ Episode 1: Softness is a praxis ☽In this gentle, reflective episode of Kinship, Surabhi explores softness not as fragility, but as a radical, relational practice—one that invites deeper connection with our dogs and ourselves. Together, we examine how choosing tenderness in moments of dysregulation can transform how we show up in relationship.In this episode, you will explore:𖤓 Why softness is a form of resistance—not weakness—in a culture obsessed with control𖤓 How to meet canine behavior with curiosity instead of correction𖤓 The link between fear, control, and our nervous system responses𖤓 What it means to create safety through attunement rather than obedience𖤓 Daily practices to reclaim tenderness as a path toward healing and connectionYou can also engage with some inquiry after the episode: 🌹 where do yo feel the urge to control your dog? What might that urge be protecting or compensating for?🌹 When you think about “softness,” what emotions or memories arise? Is there resistance? Grief? Relief?🌹 what’s one small way you can practice softness this week—in how you respond, how you speak, or how you approach a situation?Hope you enjoy this episode ❤️ Ready to step into this reimagined relationship with your dog? 💕 Apply for my 1:1 coaching container where I guide women dog guardians on moving into deep and meaningful attunement with their dogs and themselves. ⁠🦋 Attune⁠Take this free quiz and find out your Empowered Guardian Archetype ⬇️ If you are ready to stop comparing yourself to other dog guardians and move into feeling more confident, empowered and fulfilled in how you care, then take the Empowered Guardian Archetype Quiz and reclaim your own unique and much needed care language. 🦋 Take the quiz Giveaway details 📣 Leave a review + win a chance for a 90 mins reimagination call for free. Upload the screenshot on Instagram stories, tag @luchiandmuttons and participate!🎧 Subscribe and move into kinship with your dog

In this episode, I chat with Deepti Rao, founder of For the Love of Dog. Her brand is one of the first brands to introduce snuffle mats, long lines and more into the Indian dog household. We talk about her journey of setting up a pet product business in a niche that was extremely new to the Indian dog parent consumer and her journey of navigating through the highs and lows. As a dog trainer herself, she brings great insight into balancing what both the dog needs but also what the dog parent looks for with products. If you are small, women-led business, this is a great listen! Check out the incredible products made by the For The Love of Dog here: https://fortheloveofdog.co.in/ Follow @luchiandmuttons for more content, tips & inspiration! And don't forget to check out all our exciting offerings at www.luchiandmuttons.com

Welcome to episode 20 of The Luchi & Mutton's Podcast. I think this episode is a total banger because of 2 reasons: I'm chatting with some of my favourite people, Sowjanya & Eva, both are BHARCS graduates, running their own consulting practice; I'm talking about something I've wanted to for a really, really long time and there was no better platform this. I hope you enjoy this episode and find lots of insights & nuggets of powerful self-reflection - we will be back with a few more episodes on similar themes. See you soon! Follow: @luchiandmuttons on Instagram Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition on Facebook Visit www.luchiandmuttons.com To follow Sowjanya's work, check out Dog Pawmise on Instagram & Facebook; to follow Eva's work, check out Noiacanins on Instagram

In episdoe 19, I chat with UK based dog trainer Niki French on whether dogs are really important for all dogs. Niki has been working with dogs for the last 5 years and she's the author of the best selling book, STOP! Walking your dog - a guide to walking with nervous, reactive and over sensitive dogs. She's done such a fabulous job of pushing this awareness that the UK now celebrates a #dontwalkyourdogday. If you have a nervous/reactive/oversensitive dog with whom walks are a struggle, this episode is for you. Find out more about Niki French here: https://puptalk.co.uk/ Stay updated with all the cool stuff with Luchi & Mutton's: Instagram: @luchiandmuttons Facebook: Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition Website: www.luchiandmuttons.com

I chat with Jessica Hyams from Little and Large Dogs, a certified canine behaviourist based out of London with a special focus on bull breeds. We talk about some of the 'traps' bull breed training fall into, what their complex and horrific history about this breed tell us about their behavioural responses and what could a kinder approach to support them look like. It's an incredible episode and I hope you enjoy it. About Jessica: She has spent years in non destruct rescue work, rehabilitating bull breeds. As a behaviour consultant, she focuses on the relationship between pain & behaviour, emotional regulation through enrichment and offering a neurological and ethological perspective on these breeds. She can be found at @littlelargedogsldn on Instagram and her website, littleandlargedogs.com To stay updated on what's happening with Luchi & Mutton's follow: Instagram: @luchiandmuttons Facebook: Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition Website: luchiandmuttons.com

Tune into episode 17 where I chat with Helen Moore, a canine behaviour coach with 14 years of experience and based out of Canada. She specialises in anxiety and trauma related behaviours. She’s also a certified EFT Tapping practitioner which allows her to support human caregivers, who share share our lives with dogs who are struggling with day-to-day life. You can follow her work on Instagram at @caninewellnessandeft and @wholesomecanine Check out: https://wholesomecanine.ca/ To know more about EFT Tapping, check out the following links: Brad Yates https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiHZMZejDS4RIxDdBwoie9A@tapwithbrad The Tapping Solution https://www.thetappingsolution.com/@thetappingsolution Sacha Bryce www.coresoulwork.com/welcome@sachabryce.eft Follow Luchi & Mutton's on: Instagram: @luchiandmuttons Facebook: Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition Website: www.luchiandmuttons.com

I sit down in this episode to chat with Soniksha, a relational psychotherapist, to discuss attachment styles in our relationships (amongst humans and with dogs) and the complexities of them. We talk at length about secure attachment, the importance of caregiving, tolerating separation and more. It's an evocative conversation that discusses attachment in non mainstream ways, so do tune in and let me know what you think of it. ABOUT SONIKSHA VENKATESH: Soniksha is a practicing psychotherapist based out of Goa, India. She currently runs a virtual practice, engaging with clients all across the country and world. She can be found at soniksha08@gmail.com Follow: @luchiandmuttons on Instagram Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition om Facebook www.luchiandmuttons.com

Welcome to The Luchi & Mutton's Podcast! In episode 15, Anushree and I talk about what it takes to help a multi dog feel safe and connected with each other. Through our own personal journeys & professional expertise, we share common mistakes that dog parents end up making, explore the intricacies and complexities of dog to dog relationships in the same home and reconsider our role as in a set up like this. It's a conversation that's filled with lots of nuggets and insights. Hope you enjoy it! Anushree Thammanna is a BHARCS certified consultant, an individual rescuer, a co-founder for a rescue organization committed to rescuing and rehabilitating pugs and a dog mom to 5 dogs. She can be found at https://www.anushreethammanna.com/ Download a helpful and short guide on setting up your multi dog home for success: https://www.anushreethammanna.com/registration Follow: @luchiandmuttons on Instagram Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition on FB www.luchiandmuttons.com

Welcome to the Luchi & Mutton's Podcast. I'm your host, Surabhi Venkatesh, and I run Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition here in India. Happy Valentine's Day! In our 14th episode, I chat with lovely Andrew Hale on holding space, love & more for our dogs' lived experiences, his journey as an advocate for a more relationship & care based approach with our dogs (v/s a solely task based & obedience oriented approach) and his lovely, inspiring virtual Facebook community, Dog Centred Care. Andrew is a certified animal behaviourist who works with dogs with a clinical behaviour approach. With over 15 years of experience, he follows a Dog Centred approach that's rooted in compassion & empathy to understand dogs better. Know more about his work: https://trainpositive.co.uk/ Check out the Dog Centred Care group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/dogcc Follow: @luchiandmuttons on instagram Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition on Facebook www.luchiandmuttons.com

I came across this question - "best tips to address counter surfing?" and I thought that this would make for a great episode. Find out what counter surfing is, why dogs engage in it and how we can address it, gently and with love. Follow: @luchiandmuttons on Instagram Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition on Facebook www.luchiandmuttons.com

In this episode, I share my observations of free living dogs in North Goa and what these taught me about dogs, our relationship with them and much more. Give it a listen and let me know what you think. Follow: @luchiandmuttons on Instagram Luchi & Mutton's Dog Behaviour & Nutrition on Facebook For consultations, connect at www.luchiandmuttons.com

I can't get over the fact that I have dedicated an entire podcast episode to spirulina but it's true - the lessons I learnt from feeding it to my dogs are so valuable. This isn't your usual safe/unsafe/superfood conversation - it's so much more. I hope you enjoy listening to it! Let me know what you think of it. Follow Luchi & Mutton's on IG: @luchiandmuttons Facebook: Luchi & Mutton's Canine Behaviour & Nutrition For consultations, visit www.luchiandmuttons.com

We talk a lot about training, behavior, and “doing it right” with our dogs - but almost never about what happens after things go wrong.In this episode, we explore relational repair: what it is, why it matters, and how it builds deep emotional safety between dog moms and their dogs. This conversation gently disrupts perfection-based dog culture and offers a more humane, nervous-system-aware approach to connection.If you’ve ever felt guilt, frustration, or shame after a hard moment with your dog - this episode is for you.In this episode, we cover:- what relational repair actually means in dog-human relationships - why repair matters more than getting it "right" all the time - every day examples of repair + non-examples - why repair can feel inaccessible - how dogs experience rupture, safety and reconnection- the link between repair, trust & emotional resilience in dogsWho this episode is for:- dog moms who feel pressure to "get it right" all the time- dog moms of sensitive, reactive or complex dogs- anyone curious about nervous system aware dog parenting - humans learning to unlearn control based relationship modelsGentle Reminder:If repair feels hard or unfamiliar, you’re not broken. Many of us were never taught how repair works - this episode is an invitation to learn together, with compassion.

Why Dog Moms “Hop On, Hop Off” Training ApproachesMany dog moms - especially those living with complex, sensitive, or reactive dogs - find themselves cycling through training approaches. One method gives hope, another promises clarity, and another claims to be the answer. When none of them quite land, it’s easy to assume something is wrong.But what if that pattern isn’t failure?In this episode, we explore the unspoken truth behind why dog moms “hop on” and “hop off” training methods - and what it actually reveals about intuition, nervous systems, and the relational field between dog and human.We talk about:Why complex dogs don’t respond well to surface-level or behaviour-only solutionsHow dogs read nervous system states, not just cues or techniquesThe hidden cost of relying solely on external authority while ignoring instinctWhat the “relational field” is and why it matters more than any single methodHow intuition is embodied data—not guessing or emotionThe shift from fixing behaviour to co-regulating safetyThis conversation is for dog moms who feel deeply, notice everything, and sense there’s more happening beneath the behaviour - yet haven’t always trusted that knowing.If you’ve ever thought, “Why does nothing seem to fully work for my dog?”This episode offers a different lens - and permission to stop searching for the perfect method and start listening to the relationship itself.And if you are ready to make that shift, I welcome you inside my new 6-week group container, RESONANCE ✨ Resonance is a 6-week guided container with weekly audio teachings, weekly micro-practices, and live relational support - designed to help your nervous system shift out of vigilance and into felt safety so that you can: 𓂀 Pause before stepping in when your dog hesitates, pulls back, or ignores you, instead of immediately redirecting or distracting𓂀 Stop constantly scanning for triggers - other dogs, sudden sounds, dropped food, visitors arriving - and trust how your dog will respond𓂀  Create space for your dog to sniff the floor when guests come in, hesitate before greeting someone, or take their time approaching something unfamiliar, without being rushed𓂀 Stop bracing for the next issue, and caring for your dog feels lighter, calmer, and more connectedStep inside at an early bird pricing that gives you immediate access to the container + 1 BONUS Audio Teaching to get started on your journey: https://www.luchiandmuttons.com/resonance 

Do you ever feel like your empathy is costing you your energy in marriage?In this episode, we explore why women who’ve done the work- emotionally, relationally, and socially—- often slip into overgiving when they feel bad for their partners. We unpack how empathy can quietly turn into self-erasure, why this pattern is so common, and how it leads to resentment and disconnection.You’ll hear relatable marriage scenarios, a powerful reframe on emotional labour, and an unexpected lesson from dogs on how to stay present without abandoning yourself.If you’re a married dog mom longing for more aliveness, clarity, and empowerment in your relationship, this episode will speak to you.Plus, learn about Untamed, my group coaching container for dog moms ready to reclaim their voice and energy - guided by their dogs.Know more about Untamed here

Meeting new dogs doesn’t have to mean pushing past discomfort, rushing greetings, or aiming for “good behavior.” When we center nervous system safety, dog introductions can become calmer, clearer, and more respectful - for everyone involved.In this episode, I share 5 nervous system truths that support safer dog-to-dog interactions, including:Recognising calming signalsChecking in with your own nervous systemUnderstanding how your dog typically interactsChoosing environments that support regulationReframing “good” interactions into safe onesThis episode is for dog moms who want to move away from social pressure of "getting it right" and toward regulation, consent, and connection.Link to the FREE Canine Communication course: Check it out here Want deeper support?Attune is my 1:1 relational and somatic coaching program for dog moms who want to feel regulated, confident, and deeply attuned—with their dogs and themselves.Only 3 spots available through January 2026.

You can understand co-regulation. You can follow all the right accounts. You can know exactly what’s happening in your dog’s nervous system.And still feel stuck.In this episode, we explore why co-regulation can’t be learned through scrolling - and why so many thoughtful, deeply caring dog moms find themselves trying harder without feeling any real shift in their relationship with their dog.This conversation is for you if you:understand co-regulation intellectually but struggle to embody itfeel pressure to “be regulated” for your dognotice yourself monitoring, managing, or bracing in hard momentswant a more grounded, attuned relationship — without self-abandonmentThis isn’t an episode about doing co-regulation right - it’s an invitation to stop performing safety and start inhabiting it.Work With Me Inside AttuneAttune is my 1:1 relational and somatic coaching program for dog moms who want to move out of theory and into lived, embodied co-regulation.This work is:relational, not prescriptivesomatic, not performativeslow, practical, and deeply attunedInside Attune, we build the capacity to stay embodied, responsive, and connected with your dog, especially in the moments that feel hardest.If this episode resonated in your body, you can apply for Attune via the link below.Apply for Attune: https://www.luchiandmuttons.com/attune-coaching

How do we hold space for ourselves without shutting out the people, and dogs, we love? In this episode, we dive deep into the ways our Empowered Guardian Archetypes™ - the Companion, the Steward, the Reclaimer, and the Protector - shape how we set boundaries, navigate love, and honour our energy.We explore the patterns that show up in everyday life: from the way your dog senses your tension and leans in for comfort, to the ways you co-regulate energy with your partner, friends, or family. You’ll hear relatable, sometimes humorous examples that will make you think, “Oh my god, that’s me!” while also uncovering the deeper emotional lessons about love, safety, and consequence that influence the way you connect.This episode is not about “rules” or “shoulds.” It’s about seeing your own instincts, owning your relational patterns, and learning to hold boundaries from a place of love, attunement, and self-respect. You’ll leave with a gentle, empowering understanding for creating space in your relationships without shrinking, over giving, or losing your wild, intuitive power.Whether you’re snuggled on the couch with your dog, sitting across from your partner, or reflecting on the people who matter most, this episode invites you to explore how your archetype shapes your heart, your boundaries, and your connection to the world around you.Don't know your Empowered Guardian Archetype™? Take the FREE quiz here!

In this episode, I explore the profound connection between humans and animals, and why being around dogs can awaken a deeper sense of aliveness for us dog moms. We dive into how women, in particular, have often been conditioned to suppress their nervous systems, limiting their capacity to fully experience life, connection, and joy. Through insights and practical guidance, we uncover how returning to “wildness” with the support of dogs can help regulate the nervous system, restore vitality, and transform the way you show up in life and relationships. This is an invitation to reconnect with your body, your instincts, and the untamed energy that makes you feel truly alive 💜