In this episode of Breeders Brew, Sara sits down with Sam Chamberlain, winner of the Canine Family Planner Top Puppy Parent Award and a finalist in the Breeder Excellence Award, to explore what it takes to rear well-rounded puppies with care, commitment and common sense.

🐾 Sam shares her evolution from breeding Labradors to focusing on Cocker Spaniels and Cockapoos—and how this transition better suits her lifestyle and space without compromising standards. Expect honest, practical insight into:

✅ The messy reality of a surprise midnight whelping
✅ Her journey into tube feeding and saving a struggling newborn
✅ Puppy training tips, crate expectations, and the reality of night-time routines
✅ Using vetting forms, WhatsApp groups, and structured updates to manage owner expectations
✅ Socialisation, separation anxiety prevention, and setting firm boundaries with new owners
✅ Why she never vaccinates before puppies leave, and how she explains this to owners

Whether you're considering switching breeds, rethinking how you handle puppy applications, or need real talk about post-whelp support, this episode is packed with gems.

🔗 Links from the episode:

👉 Visit Sam's website: Rackenford Dogs, Facebook: www.facebook.com/rackenfordcockapoos & IG: www.instagram.com/rackenfordcockapoos 

👉 Interested in applying for a future Annual Breeder Award? Find out more: www.caninefamilyplanner.com/aba
👉 Want support like this all year round? Join the Brew Crew: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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In this episode of Breeders Brew, Sara sits down with the winner of the Canine Family Planner Attentive Owner Award, Helen Farnes, to celebrate her unwavering dedication to her dogs before, during, and after whelping. Helen embodies the gold standard of breeder responsibility from her roots as a dairy farmer’s wife to her thoughtful, hands-on approach to breeding Border Terriers and Jack Russells.

🐾 This honest and insightful chat covers:

✅ The transition from working collie breeder to nurturing terrier litters.
✅ Why her project management mindset makes her an incredibly attentive breeder.
✅ Real-life whelping room decisions—how she trusted her gut and overruled her vet to safeguard her bitch.
✅ The challenges of managing a complex labour with a mummified pup and how Helen’s early intervention helped save the rest of the litter.
✅ Her toolkit approach to dog breeding—combining traditional farming instincts with homeopathy, nutrition, and close observation.

Helen’s wisdom bridges farming traditions with modern, holistic dog breeding. Her eye for detail, quick decision-making, and deep connection with her dogs make her a true standout in our community.

📌 Helpful Links from the Episode:

🔗 Want direct access to Sara, Isobel, and our growing network of responsible breeders?
 👉 Become a Brew Crew Member: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

🔗 Interested in applying for a future Annual Breeder Award? Find out more here: www.caninefamilyplanner.com/aba

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In this episode of Breeders Brew, Sara is joined by special guest Jacquie Mullin, winner of the Canine Nutrition Coach Holistic Breeder Award and finalist for the Canine Family Planner's Rising Star Award, to explore the beautiful but often complex journey of breeding Whippets with intention, care, and an open mind.

🌟 With deep gratitude, Jacquie reflects on the challenges she faced across multiple missed matings, the power of trusting her gut, and why embracing modern, holistic approaches made all the difference in producing a healthy, thriving litter.

🎙️ This heartfelt conversation explores:

✅ Jacquie’s lifelong passion for Whippets – from racing champions to her determination to preserve her cherished bloodline.
 ✅ The turning point where she stopped guessing and committed to accurate ovulation testing, discovering Elsy was a late acceptor, needing mating on day 23.
✅ Why an open mindset is key – even when you're being advised by “experts” with fixed views.
✅ The difference between racing and show-bred Whippets – in build, temperament, and breeding considerations.
✅ How Jacquie used exercise, supplements, and careful timing to support Elsy through her third and final attempt at motherhood.

Whether you’re navigating a challenging breeding journey or want to understand how to make more informed, holistic decisions, Jacquie’s story proves that perseverance and mindset matter.

📌 Helpful Links from the Episode:

🔗 Want direct access to Sara, Isobel, and our growing network of responsible breeders?
 👉 Become a Brew Crew Member: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

🔗 Interested in applying for a future Annual Breeder Award? Find out more here: www.caninefamilyplanner.com/aba

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Love the podcast? Get even more as a Brew Crew member → www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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Bonus Brew: Behind the Breeder Awards + Your VIP Invitation 

Surprise! We're back in your ears with a bonus episode that lifts the lid on everything happening backstage at the Annual Breeder Awards – and finally gives you the inside scoop on the Brew Crew mentorship.

Join us as we reflect on the ABA series so far, share why the diversity of breeder stories truly matters, and reveal the common thread running through every interview: the power of mentorship.

This episode marks the official (and long overdue) announcement of the Brew Crew – a private, members-only community for proactive, ethical dog breeders and passionate puppy planners who want tailored guidance, real talk, and a circle that gets it. You’ll hear:

• Why the Brew Crew was created, who it’s for, and what’s included inside
• How we’re redefining dog breeding communities – not by breed, size, or scale but by attitude
• A special offer for podcast listeners (hint: 50% off your first month with code PODFAN50)
• Snippets from real members and exclusive content you’re currently missing

Whether planning your first litter or building a better system for your next, this episode will inspire you to get the right people in your corner and raise the bar for breeding – together.

Learn more and join us: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew
Offer expires at the end of the ABA podcast series.

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Love the podcast? Get even more as a Brew Crew member → www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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In this inspirational episode of Breeders Brew, Sara flies solo to celebrate the incredible achievements of one of the Annual Breeder Awards winners – the visionary French Bulldog breeder Shainy Majidi!

🌟 Shainy is a double finalist and the proud winner of the Breeding Vision Award. She is recognised for her unwavering ethics, preparation, and drive to raise the bar for French Bulldog breeding.

🎙️ Tune in as Sara and Shainy deep dive into:

✅ How Shainy’s passion for ethical breeding began after discovering her Frenchie’s unexpected athleticism and health, flipping the script on common stereotypes.
✅ The critical role of mentorship, how a trusted stud dog owner guided her first experience, and why it changed her entire mindset.
✅ What happens when a stud doesn’t live up to expectations, and the courage it takes to walk away, even when the clock is ticking.
✅ Practical prep before breeding: folic acid, exercise, ovulation testing, and more.
✅ The importance of BOAS testing and selecting stud dogs with breathing health at the forefront.
✅ Raising two litters, nine days apart – how she did it, what she learnt, and why she's probably still catching up on sleep!

Whether breeding your first litter or looking to refine your programme, this conversation is full of insight, inspiration, and real-world lessons you won’t find in a textbook.

📌 Helpful Links from the Episode:

🔗 Want to follow Shainy's journey or connect? Find her on Instagram: @the_world_of_kiki_and_co

🔗 Want direct access to Sara, Isobel, and our growing network of responsible breeders?
👉 Become a Brew Crew Member today for community support, breeder resources, and exclusive member events: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

🔗 Interested in applying for the next Annual Breeder Awards? Submit your future application here: www.caninefamilyplanner.com/aba

#BreedersBrew #BreedingVision #FrenchBulldogs #DogBreedingDoneRight #EthicalBreeding #PuppyPlanning #HolisticBreeder

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In this episode of Breeders Brew, Sara sits down with Sue Taplin, winner of the Canine Family Planner's Breeder Excellence Award, to celebrate her decades-long journey in the dog world – from raising Collies and running a licensed boarding kennel, to producing generations of well-bred, health-tested Labradors.

🌟 With nearly 20 years of experience and a meticulous approach to record-keeping and ethical breeding, Sue has built a programme rooted in consistency, compassion, and continuous learning.

🎙️ Tune in as we explore:

✅ Sue’s evolution from corporate life to dog boarding and eventually breeding.
✅ The reality of running a kennel with 80 dogs, handling police-seized “dangerous” dogs, and founding assistance dog work.
✅ Why good record-keeping, paper or digital, remains the backbone of her breeding practice.
✅ Her journey from relying on instinct to embracing ovulation testing, supplements, and structured puppy protocols.
✅ How Sue uses puppy books, in-depth vet info sheets and layered educational materials to support new owners.
✅ Why she believes training the owner is as vital as training the dog!

Whether you're a first-time breeder or navigating your fourth generation, Sue’s calm, methodical approach is packed with insight and encouragement for doing things right.

📌 Helpful Links from the Episode:

🔗 Want direct access to Sara, Isobel, and our growing network of responsible breeders?
 👉 Become a Brew Crew Member: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

🔗 Interested in applying for a future Annual Breeder Award? Find out more here: www.caninefamilyplanner.com/aba

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Love the podcast? Get even more as a Brew Crew member → www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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In this special solo series of Breeders Brew, Sara, the Canine Family Planner, takes the helm to introduce the Annual Breeder Awards (ABAs)—a brand-new recognition programme celebrating exceptional breeders and their commitment to responsible dog breeding.

🏆 This episode spotlights Adam Mayle, winner of the Rising Star Award, an accolade recognising breeders who are continuously raising their game, expanding their knowledge, and refining their breeding programmes.

🎤 In this candid conversation, Adam shares his journey from breeding German Shepherds to establishing himself as an ethical, health-focused Labrador breeder. Expect insights on:

✅ The importance of mentorship – How guidance from experienced breeders has shaped Adam’s breeding vision.
✅ Building a trusted reputation – From puppy contracts to WhatsApp groups and buyer references, learn how Adam fosters transparency and trust.
✅ The realities of breeding responsibly – From ovulation testing to endorsements, hear why ethics matter.
✅ Balancing work, family, and breeding – Managing a breeding programme while maintaining quality over quantity.
✅ Future vision for GaffaGlory Labradors – Breeding towards the ideal combination of show and working lines.

🔗 Where to Find Adam & GaffaGlory Labradors:
📷 Instagram: @adam.mayle | @gaffaglory

🎧 Listen now for an inspiring conversation with an ambitious and ethical breeder!

📌 Helpful Links from the Episode:

🔗 Join the Breeders Brew Community on Facebook – A safe, supportive space for responsible breeders to share experiences and ask questions.
👉 Search Breeders Brew Community on Facebook and request to join.

🔗 Want to hear more? Have a question for a future episode?
📩 Email us at [email protected]

💡 Help us spread the word! If you found this episode insightful, please like, share, and recommend it to fellow breeders. Let’s work together to raise the bar for responsible, ethical breeding!

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Love the podcast? Get even more as a Brew Crew member → www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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In this celebratory episode of The Breeders Brew, Sara and Isobel wrap up the Q&A series with your burning questions and one BIG announcement. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by vague answers, outdated advice or social media noise, this episode reminds you that you’re not alone.

✅ Irregular Seasons & Missed Matings – Is there a pattern in season unpredictability lately? And how do you support bitches that are late or inconsistent?

✅ The Royal Jelly Lowdown – What it is, who needs it, and why your supplement strategy might be missing the mark if you’re not considering derivatives, dose and duration.

✅ Stud Trip Survival Guide – From progesterone timing to Airbnb stress, learn how to plan a long-distance stud visit like a pro.

✅ DNA Carriers & Stud Dogs – Why ruling out carriers could limit your programme, and what truly matters when choosing a male.

🔥 Ready to Level Up? Join the Brew Crew
This is the community we wish we had when we started—built for breeders who are serious about doing things properly, asking better questions, and getting honest, experience-backed answers.

✨ Whether you’re planning your first litter or refining your fifth, Brew Crew membership gives you:
 ✔️ Real-time support from Sara & Isobel
 ✔️ Fortnightly B!tch & Brew catch-up calls
✔️ Monthly deep-dive Spotlight Sessions
✔️ Breeder Briefs, tools, and behind-the-scenes content
✔️ A no-fluff, no-judgment space to grow your confidence and sharpen your decisions

🎁 Founding Member Offer until 9th April
🎟️ Join now: breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

No long-term commitment. Cancel any time. But once you’re in, you won’t want out.

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Love the podcast? Get even more as a Brew Crew member → www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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Sara & Isobel are in full celebration mode in this short and sweet mini–pod because the Breeders Brew podcast has officially turned ONE!

Join us as we spill the beans on our impromptu Pod Party, happening TODAY – with all the details you need to tune in live, get involved, and maybe even bag yourself a party favour 👀

We’re going live, unfiltered, and off the cuff to take your burning breeding questions, share some exciting updates, and of course, have a bit of a giggle. Think of it as being virtually in the room with us – no mics or cameras needed from you, just your good vibes and curious minds.

💻 When?
7PM BST (UK) / 2PM EDT / 6PM UTC
💌 Where?
Email list, Facebook, or YouTube (make sure your notifications are ON!)

We’ll answer pre-submitted questions, take live ones, and celebrate the vibrant community we’ve built together. And yes, there’s a gift involved… but only if you come to the party!

Let’s raise a virtual glass and toast to one year of breeding brilliance. Find your crew. Join the party. 🎈

💻 Join the email list at: www.breedersbrew.com
🔍 Find us on Facebook: Breeders Brew Community
📺 YouTube: Search “Breeders Brew” and hit subscribe with notifications on!

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Love the podcast? Get even more as a Brew Crew member → www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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In this jam-packed Q&A episode of Breeders Brew, Sara and Isobel answer your most asked questions—unpacking real-life scenarios, sharing expert insights, and challenging outdated breeder mindsets. Expect clarity, confidence and straight-talking guidance as we dive into:

✅ Puppy Returns – How to handle them fairly, protect yourself with a solid return contract, and why it’s not a reflection on you as a breeder.

✅ Food Quality & Supplements – Spotting changes in dog food, common nutrient gaps in breeding dogs, and why folic acid and selenium matter more than you think.

✅ The Calcium Debate – Isobel sets the record straight on the PTH hormone, timing, and the safest forms of calcium to avoid eclampsia.

✅ TCI & Aftercare – What makes a TCI fail? Sara shares critical insights on timing, clinic choice, progesterone follow-up, and what top breeders do differently.

Throughout, we reflect on why having a growth mindset is key to staying current, improving outcomes, and being the breeder your dogs deserve.

🔴 Join our LIVE Q&A – 31st March, 7 PM (UK)
Streaming details to follow on socials and email!

💡 Found this helpful? Like, share and tag a breeder who needs to hear it.

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Love the podcast? Get even more as a Brew Crew member → www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

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