Straight Up Dog Talk: Real Talk on Dog Training, Behavior, and Nutrition for Pet Parents

What can prison dog programs teach us about healing, structure, and hope?In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Mattison Skook-Simpson (Freed By Training) shares how working with dogs inside prison helped her rebuild her life—and how compassion, communication, and second chances can transform both people and dogs.Most of us are told to “fix” behaviors fast. But as you’ll hear, efficiency isn’t everything—and real progress comes when we slow down, connect, and rebuild trust.How prison dog programs teach responsibility, connection, and self-worthWhy relationship matters more than results (and what that means for your dog)What to do when your dog is labeled “too much”How to turn shame into momentum and start fresh—no matter where you are✨ Connect with Mattison & grab free resources:Website: https://freedbytraining.coInstagram: https://instagram.com/freedbytraining💛 About Straight Up Dog TalkHelping dog parents who love their dog but feel lost—ditch the guilt, decode the behavior, and finally build the life you both deserve. Follow for judgment-free conversations about reactivity, nutrition, enrichment, and the messy middle of dog life.

🐾 Can dogs really talk? Tilda’s button journey shows how communication can transform your bond—and change how we see canine intelligence.In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Molissa to share the incredible story of Tilda—a dog using buttons to “speak” her mind. From the first button press to emotional breakthroughs, you’ll hear how Tilda’s journey has inspired a global community of dog lovers.💡 You’ll learn:​ How Tilda started learning to use buttons​ Training methods that worked (and what didn’t)​ The most surprising things she’s ever “said”​ Tips for pet parents curious about button training​ Why this movement is reshaping how we view canine intelligence💛 Whether you’re new to button training or just curious about how dogs communicate, this episode will leave you inspired.Guest Info:@talkingmytildaUse code Tilda at FluentPet.com to save on your buttons!🐾 Sponsored by PetMatRxShop science-backed supplements: petmatrx.comUse code SUDT20 to save 20%✨ Stay Connected🌐 Free resources + more: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b📲 Follow on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube & Facebook: @em_lovesdogs | @straightupdogtalk#dogbuttons #caninedialogue #talkingdog #dogtraining #straightupdogtalkAffiliate Disclosure: This episode contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through the links above, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Straight Up Dog Talk and helping fuel the RV dream

In this dog training podcast episode, Em shares how to advocate for your reactive dog—setting boundaries, saying no, and protecting trust without guilt.Do you ever feel like you’re constantly justifying your dog’s behavior to others?In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, I share the moment everything shifted—the first time I stopped explaining Fitz and started advocating for him. From awkward family events to pushy strangers, I’ve been there. And I know how hard it is to speak up when the world doesn’t get it.But here’s the truth: your dog doesn’t need your defense.They need your protection. Your leadership. Your trust.💡 You’ll walk away with:• Real-world examples of what advocacy looks like• Tips for saying “no” without guilt• Why advocating for your dog is one of the most powerful tools you have• A reminder that you don’t need to explain your way to respectIf you’re stuck between wanting to protect your dog and trying not to offend anyone—this one’s for you.✨ Free Resource👉 Grab the free enrichment guide: Paws, Brains, and Fun✨ Stay Connected🌐 Website + More Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook💛 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually feels good.#dogtrainingpodcast #reactivedogsupport #dogadvocacy #bigfeelingdogs #straightupdogtalk

In this dog training podcast episode, Em and Annie Grossman share why positive reinforcement and science—not dominance—create lasting results.What if we could combine heart and behavioral science to train dogs—without relying on dominance or intimidation?In this inspiring conversation, Em sits down with Annie Grossman, founder of School for the Dogs and author of How to Train Your Dog with Love + Science, to talk about building connection through positive reinforcement and how our differing yet aligned methods shape learning in both canines and humans.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why Annie’s book advocates for "good training" above all—a science-based, humane approach that avoids punishment-based tools• How clicker training acts as a precise marker, bridging behaviors to rewards faster than traditional cues• Where our philosophies align—and where our styles diverge—especially in matching methods to the needs, emotions, and learning styles of each dog• Practical tips to make training joyful, effective, and rooted in science✨ Stay Connected🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook💛 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually feels good.#dogtrainingpodcast #positivereinforcement #clickertraining #dogbehavior #straightupdogtalk

In this animal rescue podcast episode, Pilots to the Rescue shares how aviation saves shelter dogs from euthanasia and flies them into forever homes.What if the difference between life and death for a shelter dog… was a pilot?In this incredible episode, Em sits down with Michael Schneider, founder and “Top Dog” of Pilots to the Rescue, to celebrate 10 years of flying animals out of danger and into forever homes. Michael shares how he turned his passion for aviation into a lifesaving mission—and how one plane, one person, and one animal at a time is reshaping rescue as we know it.🚨 In this episode, you’ll learn:• How Pilots to the Rescue uses aviation to prevent euthanasia• What goes into planning each rescue flight—and why it matters• The emotional and logistical realities of saving lives from the sky• How you can support, volunteer, or get involved with their missionWhether you’re a rescue advocate, a dog lover, or just love a story with heart—this one will stick with you.✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more stories, strategies, and support on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.💛 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find this space.#animalrescue #dogrescueflight #pilotstotherescue #dogpodcast #rescueheroes #straightupdogtalk

In this reactive dog podcast episode, Em shares 3 lessons from training Fitz—why walks made things worse and how regulation matters more than obedience.💭 I thought I was doing everything right.But nothing was working—because I was starting from the wrong place.Reactivity training can feel like a full-time job. And when you’re doing all the things but your dog is still barking, lunging, or spiraling… it’s easy to feel like you’re failing.In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, I’m sharing the 3 biggest things I wish I knew before I ever started training with Fitz—and why understanding his emotional world changed everything.💡 You’ll learn:• Why daily walks were making things worse• How regression is often a sign of growth• Why emotional regulation matters more than obedience• What helped us slow down, reconnect, and start seeing real progress🛑 This one’s for the pet parent who’s doing their best and still feels like it’s not enough.You’re not failing. You’re just in the messy middle—and your dog is still learning, too. 💛🕒 Episode Breakdown:00:00 I Didn’t Fail My Dog—I Just Didn’t Know00:40 Welcome to Straight Up Dog Talk01:15 Why This Episode Matters01:50 Lesson 1: Walks Are Not Always the Answer03:25 The Turning Point: Connection Over Control04:30 Lesson 2: Progress Doesn’t Always Look Pretty06:00 The Scatter Feeding Breakthrough06:30 Lesson 3: Regulation Over Obedience07:30 Final Thoughts & Where to Get Support✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook💛 If this episode hit home, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually works. #reactivedogsupport #dogbehaviorhelp #bigfeelingdogs #dogtrainingrealtalk #straightupdogtalk

In this dog safety podcast episode, Em and David from SATELLAI share how GPS dog collars with satellite tracking protect pets—even off-grid without cell service.What would you do if your dog ran off…And you couldn’t call them back?Couldn’t see where they were?Couldn’t even track them?For most of us, GPS collars only work if we have cell service.But what if you’re hiking, off-grid, or in panic mode with no way to connect?In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, I’m joined by David from SATELLAI—creators of one of the smartest, most innovative GPS collars on the market—offering real-time tracking, health alerts, and satellite-connected safety (even when you’re out of service range).💡 You’ll hear:🛰️ How the SATELLAI collar uses 4G/LTE + AI to keep your dog safe🐾 What makes their new Tracker a game-changer for off-grid coverage📖 The personal story that inspired this mission (hint: it started with a lost dog in a snowstorm)🔐 Why not having a GPS collar might be the riskiest part of your safety plan📱 App features, virtual fencing, no-go zones, and health tracking in real timeWhether your dog is reactive, adventurous, or just one open gate away from disappearing—this is a conversation that could change how you think about dog safety forever.💸 Special Offer:Use code DOGTALK at checkout to save $25 at satellai.com(P.S. It’s sometimes stackable with other promos—so give it a shot!)✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook💛 Love what you heard? Leave a review or share this episode with someone who needs peace of mind.#GPSDogCollar #DogSafety #DogTracker #PetTech #LostDogHelp #ReactiveDogSupport #StraightUpDogTalkThis episode contains affiliate links. If you purchase a SATELLAI product (or other partner product) using my code or link, I may earn a small commission—at no additional cost to you.I only share products and partnerships I personally use, trust, and believe in. Your support through these links helps keep the Straight Up Dog Talk podcast going—and gets us one step closer to the RV dream 💛.

In this reactive dog podcast episode, Em shares how letting go of perfection—and the E-collar—changed everything for her and Fitz.✨ I thought I had to be perfect to help my reactive dog.Turns out, I just had to be present.Five and a half years ago, I was standing in a quiet parking lot, holding the leash of a barking, overwhelmed dog—using an E-collar, doing everything I was told—and still, it wasn’t working.That was the moment I realized:Maybe the problem wasn’t my dog.Maybe it was the pressure I was putting on both of us.That moment changed everything. It was the beginning of a new way of thinking… and the first step toward becoming a trainer, launching this podcast, and building the life we have now.🎧 In this solo episode, I’m sharing:• Why perfection was stealing my peace (and Fitz’s)• The moment I took the E-collar off for good• What helped us heal: safety, regulation, and connection• Why “doing everything right” still didn’t help• How Fitz made me question everything—and build something better💛 This is your reminder:You don’t need to be perfect to support your dog.You just need to show up. Regulated. Honest. Willing.Because your dog isn’t looking for perfection.They’re looking for you.🕒 Episode Breakdown:00:00 The Lie I Believed About Being a Good Pet Parent00:45 When Doing “Everything Right” Still Didn’t Help01:40 The E-Collar That Made Things Worse02:30 The Parking Lot Realization That Changed Everything03:30 From Obedience to Understanding04:25 What Helped Us Heal: Safety, Regulation, Connection05:10 You’re Not Failing—You’re Doing the Work✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook👇 Tag a pet parent who needs this reminder today.💛 Save this post for the days you feel like you’re falling short.🔗 Free consults + support links above.#reactivedog #bigfeelingdogs #dogtrainingjourney #straightupdogtalk #petparentpressure

In this pet industry podcast episode, Em takes you behind the scenes at SuperZoo—the biggest North American trade show for pet products, brands, and trends.Ever wondered what really happens at the biggest pet industry trade show in North America?In this special live episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, I’m coming to you from SuperZoo in Las Vegas—the ultimate behind-the-scenes look at where the pet industry comes to launch, connect, and showcase what’s next.💡 Here’s what we’ll cover:• What trade shows like SuperZoo are actually like—the energy, the products, the behind-the-scenes buzz• Why I’m here and how it ties into the upcoming Straight Up Dog Talk RV tour• The truth about partnerships—how I choose brands, test products, and make sure they align with the mission of supporting both ends of the leash• How all of this impacts YOU as a pet parent—from discovering products worth your time and trust to cutting through the industry noiseWhether you’re curious about the future of pet products, wondering how partnerships get built, or just want to hear what it’s like on the trade show floor—this episode is for you.👉 Make sure you’re following on Instagram and YouTube for behind-the-scenes content from SuperZoo, and stay tuned for the RV tour updates coming soon!✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook💛 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents and advocates find this space.#superzoo #petindustry #petproducts #dogpodcast #straightupdogtalk

In this reactive dog podcast episode, Em and client Cobia share Majic’s journey—how reactivity reshaped confidence, connection, and what dogs really need.🐾 What happens when your dog’s reactivity forces you to rethink everything you thought you knew about being a “good” pet parent?In this raw and relatable episode, Em sits down with her client Cobia to talk about Majic—a big-feeling, reactive dog who’s completely transformed her life. From breakdowns to breakthroughs, this is a powerful look at what it really takes to show up for your dog when the world doesn’t always understand.💡 You’ll hear:• Why reactivity isn’t “bad behavior”—it’s communication• The mental and emotional toll of being judged as a dog parent• How Majic’s growth reshaped Cobia’s confidence and perspective• What our dogs really need from us to feel safe and connectedIf you’ve ever felt alone, ashamed, or overwhelmed by your dog’s big feelings—this episode is for you. Because sometimes, the dog we think is “too much” is the one who teaches us the most.💛 Special Offer:Mention “Majic” or this episode when you book a free consult and receive an exclusive discount on training with Em!👉 Book Your Free Consult✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook✨ If this episode moved you, please leave a review or share it with someone who’s walking a similar path.#reactivedogs #dogtrainingjourney #bigfeelingdogs #petparenting #straightupdogtalk

In this reactive dog podcast episode, Em shares why daily walks made Fitz’s behavior worse—and the peaceful alternatives that actually helped him thrive.🐾 What if your dog doesn’t need a walk today?In this gentle, judgment-free solo episode, Em shares the emotional moment she realized daily walks were making Fitz’s behavior worse—and the alternatives that finally helped him feel safe, calm, and connected.If you’ve ever skipped a walk and felt guilty, or cried your way through one that left you both dysregulated, this one’s for you. Because it’s not about the perfect routine. It’s about what actually supports your dog.💡 You’ll learn:• Why “just walk your dog” doesn’t work for every dog• How overstimulation and pressure can backfire• Simple, peaceful alternatives to daily walks• How to release guilt and build trust instead• What Fitz and I do now (and how it changed everything)✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.💛 If this episode resonated, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually feels good.#dogpodcast #reactivedog #dogtrainingtips #bigfeelingdogs #judgmentfreezone

In this dog behavior podcast episode, Em and Matt Beisner explore reactive dogs, trauma, and why domination isn’t leadership in training or life.What if the dogs we struggle with most… are the ones meant to wake us up?In this powerful episode, Em sits down with renowned dog behaviorist Matt Beisner (Dog: Impossible, The Zen Dog) to talk about the emotional truths behind reactive dogs, the failure of dominant training models, and how our relationships with animals are mirrors of our healing journeys.Whether you’re working through reactivity, trauma, or the desire to show up better for your dog, this conversation will shift how you see everything—from behavior challenges to what true leadership really means.💡 You’ll hear:• How fear and trauma manifest in dogs—and people• The flaws in force-based training and why domination isn’t leadership• What it looks like to build real trust with a dog who doesn’t feel safeGet ready to question everything you thought you knew—and walk away more compassionate, connected, and curious than ever.✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.#traumabondeddogs #dogparents #bigfeelingdogs #mattbeisner #zenanddogs #dogbehaviorpodcast #reactivedogs

In this dog nutrition podcast episode, Em shares why she stopped feeding kibble, the truth about pet food standards, and how raw feeding changed everything.I used to trust kibble—until my dog got sick, and no one could give me real answers. That’s when everything changed.In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the pet food industry and sharing what I wish someone had told me sooner.🎙️ You’ll learn:• The truth about kibble, AAFCO, and outdated pet food standards• How my senior dog’s illness led me to raw feeding• What bioavailability actually means—and why it matters• Easy, affordable ways to upgrade your dog’s meals• What your dog’s body really needs (and what it doesn’t)🐾 Whether you’re just starting to question what’s in your dog’s bowl or you’re already feeding raw, this episode gives you a judgment-free breakdown of the science, the options, and the peace of mind that comes from understanding what’s really fueling your dog.💛 Em’s Daily Go-To Products:• PetMatRx Thrive Pack — Use code SUDT20 to save 20%👉 Shop Thrive Pack• Feed Real Dog Box — My go-to for hard-to-find chews & dehydrated raw items👉 Shop Feed Real✨ Need support?Schedule a nutrition & enrichment consultation to get custom recipes and real-life help tailored to your dog:👉 Book Your Consult✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook🎧 Love this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find this space.This episode includes affiliate links. When you use them, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting this space and helping fuel the RV dream 💛#dogpodcast #dognutrition #rawfeeding #caninenutrition #doghealthtips #straightupdogtalk

In this dog products podcast episode, Em and Pet Life Unlimited expose outdated pet care products and share what really works for dogs today.What if the problem wasn’t your dog—it was the products we’ve all been told to trust?In this no-BS conversation, Em sits down with Lindsay Joyce, CEO, and Julia Sigal, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Pet Life Unlimited, to talk about why so many “standard” pet products are outdated, overcomplicated, or just plain ineffective—and what pet parents actually need instead.From the pee pad aisle to paw balm hype, we break down how to stop wasting money, avoid overwhelm, and choose products that actually work for your dog’s lifestyle and health.🎙️ You’ll hear:• Why so many pet care products are created without your dog in mind• The problem with traditional pee pads (and what to use instead)• How Pet Life Unlimited is rewriting the pet product playbook• What to look for in paw balms, dry shampoo brushes, and daily care• The shift toward transparency, science, and respect in dog care🐶 Want a FREE sample of Pet Life Unlimited products?Email woof@petlife.co with the subject line Straight Up Dog Talk to request yours.(Submitting a sample request will sign you up for Pet Life Unlimited’s marketing emails.)✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.#dogproducts #petlifeunlimited #dogcaretips #doghealth #straightupdogtalk

In this pet loss podcast episode, Em shares the raw reality of anticipatory grief, aging dogs, and the sacred act of slowing down before goodbye.What do you do when your dog is still here—but you’ve already started grieving?In this raw and emotional solo episode, Em opens up about the quiet heartbreak of loving an aging dog. From midnight walks to medication changes and the slow shifts of daily life, she shares what it really feels like to live with anticipatory grief—before the goodbye comes.💡 You’ll hear:• What anticipatory loss feels like as a devoted pet parent• How Toby’s heart murmur and age changed everything• The neuroscience behind grief, memory, and emotional processing• Why slowing down with your dog is a sacred act of loveWhether you’re going through it now or fearing the day it comes—this is your reminder: grief is love with nowhere to go. And you’re not alone.🎙️ Solo episodes drop every other Monday🎧 Guest video episodes launch July 23✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.💛 If this episode resonated, please share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find the support they need.#anticipatorygrief #agingdogs #dogpodcast #petlosssupport #straightupdogtalk

In this dog potty training podcast episode, Em and Glenn from NoPee explore how scent removal impacts house training, odor control, and puppy potty success.Tired of lingering smells and potty training setbacks?This week, Em sits down with Glenn, co-creator of NoPee—a new, patented product designed to help pet parents tackle indoor accidents, odor issues, and house training struggles with science-backed support.🎙 In this episode:• The surprising truth about how dogs’ noses work• Why scent removal is critical to potty training success• Em’s honest thoughts after trying NoPee herself• How this product is already earning awards in the pet worldWhether you’re dealing with a new puppy, a senior dog, or re-marking habits, this episode offers real tips and a practical tool to make life easier for both ends of the leash.🛍️ Special Listener Offer:Email Glenn at doggynopee@gmail.com and mention Straight Up Dog Talk to get 20% off your order!✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.#pottytrainingtips #dogparentlife #puppytraininghelp #dogtrainingtools #straightupdogtalk

In this reactive dog podcast episode, Em shares why starting over with Fitz wasn’t failure but the turning point that shaped her journey as a trainer.I almost didn’t become a dog trainer… because I was afraid no one would understand Fitz.In this deeply personal episode, Em opens up about the guilt and hesitation that followed years of trying everything—from dog parks and daily walks to strategies that didn’t sit right. After realizing she’d been pushing Fitz through a world he wasn’t ready for, Em made the hardest—and most important—choice: to start over.💡 You’ll hear:• Why starting over isn’t a failure—it’s a turning point• The emotional cost of “doing everything right” when it still doesn’t work• What Em unlearned to help Fitz thrive• Why learning backwards is still learning—and it’s validThis episode is for anyone who feels like they’ve missed their chance, messed things up, or are too deep into the process to shift course. You’re not behind. You’re not failing. You’re doing the brave work of listening.🎙️ Solo episodes drop every other Monday🎧 Guest video episodes launch July 23✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.💛 If this episode resonated, please share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually feels good.#dogpodcast #dogtrainingjourney #reactivedogsupport #bigfeelingdogs #judgmentfreezone

In this dog training podcast episode, America’s Got Talent finalist Sara Carson shares the truth about trick training, performance pressure, and trust with dogs.🎤 What does it really take to train a trick dog who can perform on a global stage—and still be your best friend at home?In this episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with the incredible Sara Carson—America’s Got Talent finalist, top dog trainer, and creator of The Super Collies—for a raw and inspiring look at what life is really like behind the spotlight.💡 You’ll learn:• What most people don’t see about the emotional side of performing with dogs• How Sara builds unbreakable trust to teach epic tricks and stunts• The pressure of competitions, expos, and public judgment—and how she handles it• Why fun, community, and connection matter just as much as the training itselfIf you’ve ever wanted to level up your training, connect more deeply with your dog, or just hear the truth behind the “famous dog” world—this episode will challenge and inspire you.🎧 Listen now and remember: every extraordinary trick starts with one small moment of trust.🎙️ Guest Info:📲 Follow Sara and The Super Collies on Instagram: @thesupercollies✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook✨ Loved this episode? Send it to a dog-loving friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually feels good.#dogtricks #saracarson #supercollies #dogtrainingjourney #straightupdogtalk

In this raw solo podcast episode, Em shares her healing journey after breaking her foot, quitting Xanax, and finding peace with the help of her dogs.What if the thing you thought was saving you… was also holding you back?When Em broke her foot earlier this year, she was forced to slow down—and what she found in the stillness changed everything. In this deeply personal solo episode, she shares the moment that made her reevaluate what she was chasing, why she chose to stop taking Xanax after 15 years, and how her dogs helped her redefine peace in a way that finally feels like home.🎧 In this episode:– How Em’s injury created the space for a massive emotional reset– What led to the decision to stop taking Xanax—and the fear that came with it– A vulnerable look at how Fitz mirrored her internal chaos– What peace looks like now, from her nervous system to her routines– Why imperfection, presence, and honesty are more powerful than “having it together”💛 This is the episode for anyone who’s tired of performing, tired of fixing, and just wants to feel safe in their own body again. If you’re in the messy middle, this one’s for you.✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.💛 If this episode resonated, please share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more than you know!#healingwithdogs #anxietyrecovery #rawandrealpodcast #dogmompodcast #judgmentfreezone

In this dog intelligence podcast episode, we explore canine communication, problem-solving, and why your dog may be smarter and more intuitive than you think.Your Dog Is Smarter Than You Think—Here’s the Proof🐶 What if your dog is more intelligent, intuitive, and emotionally aware than most people realize?In this heart-expanding episode, Em sits down with Jennifer Holland—journalist and author of Dog Smart: Life-Changing Lessons in Canine Intelligence—for a beautiful and eye-opening conversation about how dogs think, feel, and communicate.💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why your dog is communicating, even in silence• How canine senses and instincts make them uniquely brilliant• Real stories of problem-solving and deep emotional connection• How slowing down can strengthen your bond in powerful waysWhether you’re brand new to dog life or a longtime behavior nerd, this one will leave you seeing your dog in a whole new light—and appreciating the genius behind their eyes.📚 Learn more about Jennifer and Dog Smart:Amazon link✨ Stay Connected:🌐 Website + Free Resources: straightupdogtalk.com🆓 Book your free training or nutrition consult: straightupdogtalk.hbportal.co/schedule/668856198dc476001953809b💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.💛 If this episode moved you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps others find the support and knowledge they need.#dogintelligence #caninecommunication #dogsmart #letthedogbedog #straightupdogtalk