Never Just A Dog

In this deeply personal conversation, your host John Littlefair speaks with Richard Newman about his extraordinary relationship with his dog Woody, the grief that followed his death, and the unexpected ways that a dog can continue to shape your life long after they're gone. Richard shares stories from his book Woody: My Journey Through Grief, Joy and Healing with a Dog, including the dream work that helped him reconnect with memories, emotions and parts of himself he had carried for decades. They also talk about Richard's childhood, the importance of telling the truth, his approach to writing, and why he believes some of the most important things in life come from simply asking: what comes forward? The conversation also travels into Richard's work as a filmmaker, including the award-winning documentary Addicted to Joy, his experiences with some extraordinary characters from the surfing world, and his belief that good stories need room to breathe. Learn more about Richard here Purchase Richard's book here Official Never Just A Dog Website Connect directly with your host John Littlefair here [email protected]  

As the creator of Puppy Tales Photography and founder of the Australian Dog of the Year Awards, Kerry has met thousands of dogs and their people, documenting the quiet, powerful bond we share with them. But while travelling and telling those stories, she experienced her own heartbreak—losing her beloved dogs, Keiko and Summer. Learn more about Kerry below Puppy Tales Connect with your host John Littlefair via emai: [email protected] Official website Never Just A Dog Website

For many Australians, Toby the Wonder Dog was a television star — the clever, charismatic dog millions watched on Totally Wild and Harry's Practice. But behind the fame was a much more personal story. In this episode, John Littlefair speaks with Dr Katrina Warren about the life she shared with Toby — and the difficult chapter that followed when she lost him. Katrina reflects on what it was like saying goodbye to a dog who had been both her companion and television partner, and how life changes when a dog who had shaped so many years is suddenly gone. Dr Katrina Warren Official Website Never Just A Dog Official Website Email podcast host here: [email protected]

In this episode of Never Just A Dog, John Littlefair speaks with Dave Bartley, an officer with Merseyside Police (UK), about the loss of his working dog, Ghost, who was killed in the line of duty. Ghost wasn’t a pet — he was a partner. Trained to run toward danger, Ghost served alongside Dave until his death during operational duty. Rather than letting Ghost’s loss fade, Dave carried his grief further. His journey took him to Beautiful Joe Park in Meaford, Canada, a place dedicated to remembering service animals. What he saw there became the catalyst for something bigger. Dave went on to raise funds for a dedicated memorial honouring all serving police dogs — not just Ghost, but every dog who has given their life in service. This conversation explores service, loyalty, grief, and why the loss of a working dog deserves recognition.   You can reach out to the host of this show directly; [email protected] The official website is: Never Just A Dog

This short trailer is a breath before the climb, a moment on the roadside to remember why these stories will always matter.  Because it will never, ever be 'just a dog'. I'm your host, John Littlefair, and welcome to our shared world. OFFICIAL WEBSITE LINK Connect with your podcast host, John, below [email protected]