In this episode of Animals and Us, Natalie speaks with Dr Amanda Beer, licensed psychologist, educator, and Executive Director of Wolf Connection – a sanctuary and wilderness retreat in California where rescued wolves play a vital role in trauma recovery and personal transformation.

Amanda’s work sits at the intersection of clinical psychology and the natural world. With a PhD in Counselling Psychology and a background in trauma-informed care and group facilitation, she brings a depth of knowledge to the human experience – while also drawing on the presence, instincts and relational intelligence of wolves as co-facilitators in healing.

We talk about her journey from academic research and social justice advocacy to the living, breathing work she now leads with wolves and young people on sacred land. She shares the philosophy behind what she calls the school of the wolves – a space where connection, resilience and belonging are taught not through lectures or textbooks, but through presence, trust and shared experience.

Visit https://www.wolfconnection.org/ to learn more about the Wolf Connection organisation

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of abuse, sexual assult, suicide, death, grief, and loss. Please consider whether listening may impact your wellbeing. If you need support, reach out to Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Rachel’s story is one of resilience shaped by both visible and hidden traumas. Outwardly, Rachel grew up in a loving and privileged home, with supportive parents, a sister, and memorable family holidays. Yet beneath this, she endured childhood sexual abuse by a family member and, at age 12, witnessed the sudden death of her best friend—a loss she describes as even more traumatic than her abuse.

These experiences led Rachel to develop complex PTSD, a condition marked by layers of trauma over time. She became vulnerable to bullying and isolation, often trying to blend in and please others to avoid further pain. Despite excelling academically, she struggled with relationships and self-worth, internalizing guilt and shame from her childhood losses.

A turning point came when her sister brought home a tiny chihuahua puppy named Roxy. Instantly, Rachel felt a deep connection—Roxy’s vulnerability mirrored her own, and caring for the puppy gave Rachel a renewed sense of purpose. Roxy became her confidante and emotional anchor, offering unconditional love and companionship, especially during Rachel’s darkest moments.

Rachel describes how she would retreat to the bathroom—a safe, locked space—where she could be alone with Roxy. In these moments, when she felt overwhelmed by depression and thoughts of self-harm, Roxy’s presence grounded her and kept her going. Rachel credits Roxy with saving her life, providing comfort and a reason to survive when everything else felt hopeless.

Roxy, too, faced her own health battles, and their mutual dependence grew stronger through each challenge. Rachel’s commitment to Roxy, and the dog’s unwavering loyalty, became a lifeline through heartbreak, toxic relationships, and the darkest chapters of her life. Their bond is a powerful testament to the healing potential of animals and the importance of connection in overcoming trauma.

Rachel’s ongoing journey is marked by honesty and advocacy. She is determined to make the world safer for her son and others, using her experiences to raise awareness about trauma and mental health. Her story reminds us that healing often comes from the most unexpected places—and that the love of an animal can be transformative.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

Sue grew up in New Zealand loving horses, always asking for a white pony and feeling happiest when spending time riding and caring for her first ponies and her horse, Lady.

As a child with autism and ADHD, Sue felt awkward around humans but found peace and confidence with horses, using time in nature to manage  her feelings and emotions.

Bullied at school and struggling with human interactions, Sue discovered that horses accept her, noticing how their calm and fair behaviour helps her feel understood and secure.

Diagnosed with breast cancer at age forty, Sue moved to an acreage and surrounded herself with horses. She finds comfort from her pony Mindy, who has supported her through surgeries and recovery.

After moving to Queensland and spending more time with horses, Sue attended horsemanship clinics, learning calm body language and breathing, which helps her overcome long-standing anxiety.

Then she developed Horses Helping Humans, teaching young people and adults how to use horsemanship skills to build confidence, manage behaviour, and communicate better, especially for those with trauma or neurodiversity.

As the program grew Sue received awards and recognition, and she became an author, creating a certified program that supports thousands through practical lessons in confidence, boundaries, emotional health, and horse care.

https://www.horseshelpinghumansaustralia.com/

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

Julie grew up in the bushland of the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, where her love for animals began with a rescued kitten at age two and a childhood spent exploring nature. That early connection with the environment led her to study Environmental Biology and complete a PhD on bird migration.

After working for years in veterinary and zoo settings, Julie moved to Townsville and began volunteering at a wildlife sanctuary - where she met dingoes for the first time. Expecting dog-like behaviour, she was surprised by their independence, intelligence, and sensitivity. That encounter sparked a fascination that would shape the next chapter of her life.

Training dingoes required a new kind of relationship - one built on trust and respect rather than obedience. Over time, she developed deep bonds with them, spending hours outside of work just to be near them. Their behaviour challenged everything she thought she knew about animal training and shifted her perspective on human-animal relationships.

Now working in natural resource management, Julie engages with graziers, traditional owners and policymakers to explore the role dingoes can play in landscape health. She advocates for coexistence strategies and challenges the long-held myth of the “wild dog”, calling for greater recognition of dingoes as native apex predators.

For Julie, dingoes are more than animals - they’re teachers, helping her understand ecology, connection, and what it means to work with nature, not against it.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

Juliette grew up near Kuringai Chase National Park surrounded by animals. She spent childhood days outside climbing trees, watching wallabies, collecting cicadas, and caring for strays she brought home.

She is a creator, artist, author, and all-round joy spreader. Her wonderfully colourful career that includes being a professional clown, a fun manager at a children’s playland, and training other businesses to generate fun. 

Her passion for creativity has taken many forms, including painting artworks that have been exhibited across Queensland and teaching art to people with special needs and those on a mental health journey—something very close to her heart. 

During lockdown, Juliette and her dog Peggy discovered an abandoned baby magpie named Molly, leading to an extraordinary bond and friendship between different species in her home.

Juliette believes animals are quiet healers and says her animals have taught her about love, kindness, peace, acceptance, and the importance of living in the moment.

These days, she puts her energy into writing and creating content that spreads love, kindness, and positivity. She has appeared on TV many times and connects with a growing community online, who have joined her in celebrating joy, acceptance, and the magic of friendship—especially the beautiful bond between Molly and his two best friends, staffies Peggy and Ruby. 

Their book Peggy and Molly, Be Kind, Be Humble, Be Happy, is readily available.

Juliette’s mission? To make people smile, focus on the positive, and maybe even dance a little.

Social Media

https://www.instagram.com/peggyandmolly?igsh=OHh6ZThyczZkc3F2

https://www.facebook.com/peggyandmolly/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562351700775 

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

From a young age, Dave dreamed of being a policeman, inspired by early experiences and playing with boxes that he labelled "police."  

He joined the Queensland Police in 1989, driven by a desire to make a difference, and soon became a respected officer.

A chance conversation led Dave to the competitive dog squad, where he found his calling and passion for working with police dogs.

Over 26 years, Dave formed strong bonds with dogs like Buddy, Zed, Vader, Axel, and Jet, each with unique traits and abilities.

His career includes stories of tracking offenders, rescuing people in dangerous situations, highlighting the vital role of his canine partners.

Despite tough times and PTSD, his dedication to his dogs and the community helped Dave overcome personal and professional challenges.

Axel, one of Dave's beloved dogs, became a local icon, celebrated with a statue in Cairns, honouring Dave's contributions and his dogs' impact.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us, produced by Kintsugi Heroes.

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Plume started his extraordinary musical journey as a young drummer and songwriter, developing his passion for creating melodies and performing.

Over two years ago, he moved into singing to cows, discovering their surprising appreciation for music, which encouraged him to continue this unique path.

As Plume's animal-focused performances gained exposure, his gigs shifted from human audiences to structured environments like shelters, where animals are treated well.

He has witnessed touching reactions, like a giraffe appearing to cry during his performance, and a parrot that danced to his tunes.

Singing to animals has deepened Plume's understanding of their emotions, observing behaviours like familial affection and bonding through music.

Plume leverages social media to raise awareness about animal welfare, encouraging veganism by sharing educational resources and personal experiences.

You can find Plume at @plumes.official on Instagram and Facebook where he shares his love for animals inviting followers to explore the beauty of music-inspired animal connections.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

   Andrew grew up in Sydney with a rare bone disorder (XLH), underwent painful surgeries, and experienced contrasting childhoods with his healthy twin brother.

   Despite physical challenges, Andrew pursued music and sound engineering, then became a Bunnings manager, utilising his organisational and managerial skills.

   At 24, Andrew confronted robbers at Bunnings, displaying bravery but subsequently faced trauma, legal challenges, and lack of workplace support.

   Andrew struggled with PTSD after the robbery, facing workplace pressures and critical remarks, ultimately resigning to focus on his mental health.

   A stray cat named Sergeant Pepper provided emotional support, helping Andrew through depression and reminding him of the importance of caring for others.

   Inspired to help others, Andrew transitioned to teaching students with special needs, finding fulfilment and daily gratitude in positively impacting their lives.

   Despite past violence, Andrew focuses on humanity's goodness, suggesting selfless acts and nurturing relationships, with people and animals, as keys to happiness and overcoming adversity.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

Kobe Steele has always been an animal person in Australia, having lived with dogs and cats her whole life, treating them as beloved family members.

After a successful career in media as a TV and radio host and before finding her calling in conservation, Kobe brought her communication skills to important environmental causes.

After the sudden and tragic death of her beloved daughter Kristen, which plunged her into deep, prolonged grief Kobe’s life changed her forever.

At the insistence of her friend, Dr. Stephen Van Mill, Kobe travelled to Borneo where she had a life-transforming encounter with orangutans, especially the empathetic Faisal.

Determined to give back, Kobe began raising money for the Orangutan Foundation International Australia, taking eco-tours to educate others and support orangutan conservation efforts.

Despite battling cancer, Kobe's spirit remained unbroken, and she continues to be an advocate for orangutans while enjoying life with her rehomed guide dog, Cook.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd

In this introduction to the Kintsugi Heroes Podcast Animals & Us, the host Natalie Stockdale discusses her background as a humane educator and previous head of the Jane Goodall Foundation. She aims to share profound human-animal relationship stories, emphasising love and compassion.

Natalie shares personal anecdotes about her early love for animals influenced by the cartoon Kimba the White Lion and her compassionate mother. 

Various experiences in rural Australia exposed Natalie to animal cruelty, which shaped her advocacy for better treatment of animals. She stresses the importance of kind and humane animal handling.

Natalie recounts her life on a station during a drought and how her relationships with her animal companions, like Blue Legs the bantam hen and Spring and Summer the pigs, provided emotional support and resilience.

Biophilia, a theory by biologist Edward Wilson, suggests humans are innately connected to nature and animals. This connection is crucial for mental well-being, showcasing the importance of fostering these bonds.

The podcast will focus on transformative and inspiring stories rather than dwelling on cruelty.

About Natalie

Natalie Stockdale is an author of the 'Campfire for the Heart' book series, and a resilience coach. She believes that hardships are an inevitable and essential part of life experience that shape our character and enrich our lives. How we handle our hardships is a choice. After surviving her own personal challenges of droughts, divorce and disease, Natalie eventually woke up to the importance of resilience for our mind and body. She subsequently resigned from her job as CEO of the Jane Goodall Institute Australia and dived into the world of wellness. Natalie is on a mission to make happier, resilient people.

Her 'Creative Life Purpose' is to spread love and kindness through writing books and creating rich experiences for others in beautiful, natural settings. In doing so, she feels excited, connected to others and gains satisfaction by helping to create a kinder world.

*****

We hope that you enjoyed this episode of Animals & Us (Kintsugi Heroes).

Please take care: if you have been triggered by listening to this episode we recommend you get in contact with someone who can help keep you safe and give you the support you need. This may be Lifeline, AA, a friend, a counsellor, or some other support group.

If you’d like to share your story on Kintsugi Heroes, please get in touch by contacting us via the website here - https://www.kintsugiheroes.com.au/contact

We hope you continue enjoying the heroes stories!

Warmly,

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Theme Song: "Follow the Sun" by Xavier Rudd