Straight Up Dog Talk

✨ 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 Parent 00:45 When Doing “Everything Right” Still Didn’t Help 01:40 The E-Collar That Made Things Worse 02:30 The Parking Lot Realization That Changed Everything 03:30 From Obedience to Understanding 04:25 What Helped Us Heal: Safety, Regulation, Connection 05:10 You’re Not Failing—You’re Doing the Work 📌 Stay Connected: Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Find more support at straightupdogtalk.com 💛 If this episode moved you, send it to someone who needs it—or leave a review to help more pet parents find this space. Book Your Free Consult HERE #reactivedog #bigfeelingdogs #dogtrainingjourney #straightupdogtalk #petparentpressure

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 noise Whether 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!

🐾 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 connected If 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: Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook Explore training, nutrition, and community support at straightupdogtalk.com ✨ 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

🐾 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: Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Explore more resources at straightupdogtalk.com 💛 If this episode resonated, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find support that actually feels good.

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 safe Get ready to question everything you thought you knew—and walk away more compassionate, connected, and curious than ever. #reactivedog #dogbehavior #forcefreetraining #dogtrainingtips #dogpodcast

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% • Feed Real Dog Box — My go-to for hard-to-find chews & dehydrated raw items ✨ Need support? Schedule a nutrition & enrichment consultation to get custom recipes and real-life help tailored to your dog. — Stay Connected Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook for more insights and updates. 🎧 Love this episode? Share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps more pet parents find this space. #dognutrition #rawfeeding #caninenutrition #doghealthtips #straightupdogtalk 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 💛

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 Ruggles, Senior Director of Brand 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: 🐶 Want a FREE sample of Pet Life Unlimited products? Email woof@petlife.co with the subject line Straight Up Dog Talk to request yours. Please note: Submitting a sample request will sign you up for Pet Life Unlimited’s marketing emails.

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 love Whether 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: 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

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 world Whether 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: 💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. #pottytrainingtips #dogparentlife #puppytraininghelp #dogtrainingtools #straightupdogtalk

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 valid This 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: 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

🎤 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 itself If 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: Follow Straight Up Dog Talk on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook Explore training and resources: straightupdogtalk.com ✨ 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

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:Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook. Leave a review or share this episode with a friend—it helps more than you know! #healingwithdogs #anxietyrecovery #rawandrealpodcast #dogmompodcast #judgmentfreezone

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 ways Whether 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: https://a.co/d/gTbBo2L 📌 Stay Connected: Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Explore more resources at ⁠straightupdogtalk.com⁠. 💛 If this episode moved you, share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps others find the support and knowledge they need.

🐾 Ever wondered how to turn your backyard into a mental + physical enrichment paradise? In this fun and insightful episode, Em chats with Meghan Wolfgram, CEO and founder of SwiftPaws, to talk all things structured play, enrichment, and how chasing can be the key to calm. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: How SwiftPaws got its start (and what Shark Tank was really like!) Why structured movement matters for dogs of all ages and energy levels What makes a tired dog a truly fulfilled dog How SwiftPaws supports reactive, high-energy, and play-driven pups 🎧 Whether your dog is bouncing off the walls or just needs a new way to engage, this episode offers real solutions to help you play with purpose and bring more joy into your dog’s life. Guest Info:📲 Follow SwiftPaws on Instagram: @swiftpaws_official🛒 Shop SwiftPaws and save with code SUDT10: swiftpaws.com Stay Connected: 💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.📲 Explore more enrichment tools, podcast episodes, and our favorite gear at straightupdogtalk.com #swiftpaws #dogenrichment #chasingjoy #mentalstimulationfordogs #straightupdogtalk This episode is proudly sponsored by our partnership with SwiftPaws. Affiliate links may provide a small commission at no extra cost to you and help support our RV journey across the country. 💛

I thought I was doing everything right—until I realized I was pushing my dog through a world he wasn’t ready for. In this solo episode, Em shares the emotional turning point with Fitz: how dog parks and daily walks made things worse, how guilt and confusion clouded her decisions, and what finally shifted when she started listening instead of forcing. You’ll hear: This episode isn’t about giving up—it’s about pausing, listening, and meeting your dog where they are. 🎙️ Solo episodes drop every other Monday 🎧 Guest video episodes launch July 23 — Stay Connected: 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. #reactivedog #dogpodcast #dogbehavior #bigfeelingdogs #dogparentlife

🐕 What does it really mean when a dog is labeled “aggressive”? In this powerful episode, Em sits down with internationally recognized aggression expert Michael Shikashio to explore the nuance behind canine aggression—what it is, what it isn’t, and how to approach it with clarity and compassion. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: What aggression really means in dogs Why labels can oversimplify complex behavior How environment, history, and context shape aggression What to consider when approaching a new aggression case 🐾 Em and Mike talk about the realities of working with dogs who struggle, why every dog is different, and how both pet parents and professionals can move beyond fear into understanding. 🎧 Whether you're feeling stuck, judged, or unsure where to turn—this episode will help you feel seen, supported, and better equipped to help your dog. Guest Info:📲 Learn more about Michael’s work and courses: aggressivedog.com📸 Follow Michael on Instagram: @michaelshikashio Stay Connected: 💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. #dogaggression #michaelshikashio #caninebehavior #dogtrainingeducation #straightupdogtalk

🧬 What’s really in your dog’s supplements—and how do you know they’re working? In this episode, Em sits down with Will, CEO of PetMatRx, to break down the science, transparency, and impact behind quality pet nutrition. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: How to read supplement labels and what to avoid The mission behind PetMatRx’s science-backed products Why proactive wellness matters in a dog’s longevity What makes a supplement truly effective 🐾 Em and Will also get real about the pet industry, the challenges of building trust with consumers, and how education is at the heart of lasting health for our dogs. 🎧 Whether you're new to supplements or ready to upgrade your dog’s wellness routine, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest insights. Guest Info:📲 Follow Will on Instagram: @will_leaddog📲 Learn more about PetMatRx: @petmatrx🛍️ Explore science-backed supplements: petmatrx.com Stay Connected: 💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. #petnutrition #dogsupplements #petmatrx #healthydogs #straightupdogtalk This episode is proudly sponsored by our partnership with PetMatRx. Use code SUDT20 to save 20% on your first order: petmatrx.com Affiliate purchases through this link help fuel Em’s RV journey to bring the Straight Up Dog Talk podcast on the road—sharing real stories and connecting with dog lovers nationwide. 🚌💛

This one’s personal. In 2019, I made a decision I thought would help my dog Fitz—something I believed would make his reactivity better. But instead, it changed both of our lives in ways I never saw coming. This episode isn’t about chaos. It’s about what came after—the guilt, the overwhelm, and the quiet belief that I had somehow failed my dog. That’s where this podcast was born. Because I couldn’t find a judgment-free space when I needed one—so I created it. You’ll hear: If you’re feeling discouraged, tired, or unsure of what’s next… this space is for you. You’re not failing. You’re learning. And I’m so glad you’re here. 🎙️ Solo episodes drop every other Monday 🎧 Guest video episodes launch July 23 Stay Connected: 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. 📍 Want personalized support with your dog? Schedule a free consult with Em here: 👉 Book Now #reactivedog #dogpodcast #dogbehavior #bigfeelingdogs #dogparentlife

🐾 What if your daily dog walk could help build a kinder, safer community? In this episode, Em chats with Laura—professional dog walker and creator behind Curious Snoots—about how thoughtful walking practices and mutual respect between pet guardians can transform neighborhoods. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: Why how we show up on walks matters How to handle off-leash dogs and boundary-pushing situations Tips for navigating awkward encounters with other pet parents The power of kindness, consistency, and communication 🌎 Laura shares how her work in dog walking fosters connection, safety, and compassion in the pet space—and how you can be part of that shift too. 🎧 Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about responsibility, advocacy, and building stronger communities through everyday actions. Guest Info:📲 Learn more about Curious Snoots and follow Laura's mission: @curioussnoots Stay Connected: 💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. #dogwalkingetiquette #offleashdogs #communitykindness #responsibledogparenting #straightupdogtalk

🐾 Ever wondered what it takes to get started in dog sports—or how they benefit your dog’s mind and body? In this fun and educational episode, Em chats with ⁠@katherinek9trainer⁠, a multi-certified trainer and behaviorist, about agility, rally, enrichment, behavior, and why doing things differently matters. 💡 In this episode, you'll learn: How dog sports build confidence, trust, and focus Why enrichment is more than just puzzle toys How behavior and training are connected Tips for getting started in sports like rally and agility 🎧 Whether you're brand new to dog sports or a seasoned handler, this episode is full of insight, encouragement, and joy. Guest Info:📲 Follow Katherine on Instagram: @katherinek9trainer Stay Connected: 💛 Follow Straight Up Dog Talk for more insights and updates on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. #dogsports #agilitydogs #dogtrainingtips #enrichmentideas #straightupdogtalk ✨ This episode is proudly sponsored by our partnership with PetMatRx. Use code SUDT20 to save 20% at petmatrx.com Follow PetMatRx on Instagram: @petmatrx Affiliate links may provide a small commission at no extra cost to you. Every partnership helps support our RV journey to bring real conversations and resources to pet parents across the country.