What does it really mean to raise the bar in modern dog breeding, and how do you avoid getting stuck on average? 

In this final episode of the Annual Breeder Awards series, Sara and Isobel reflect on the standout stories shared throughout the season, from holistic Whippets and powerful Mastiffs to stud dogs backed by substance, not just style.

They dig into why structured breeding matters, how to learn from outside your breed bubble, and why recognising best practices isn't about ego but about progress. If you're ready to take the next step, you'll also hear how to apply for the 2025 ABAs and how joining the Brew Crew gives you access to the support, systems and community needed to keep doing things correctly.

📝 Applications now open: breedersbrew.com/aba
🫖 Join the Brew Crew: breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e27

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What separates a stud dog owner from a true breeding partner?

In this episode, Sara sits down with Diana Stevens of Wylanbriar Labradors, winner of the Supportive Stud Award, to reveal what it really takes to build a stud service that breeders trust, respect and return to—litter after litter.

With over 1,000 litters sired through her boys and a thriving community built on mentorship, marketing and high standards, Di shares why ethical stud work is about so much more than just showing up for a mating. For breeders ready to raise the bar, whether you're using or offering stud dogs. 

Join the Brew Crew for support tailored to your breed, background and breeding mindset.

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e26
👉 Learn more about Di: www.wylanbriar.com
👉 Join her Facebook groups: Wylanbriar Labradors, Wylanbriar Gundog Training, and her exclusive breeding group (invite only)

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What does it take to protect a vulnerable native breed when only a handful of puppies are born each year? 

In this episode, Sara sits down with Steve from Womlu Mastiffs, winner of the Breed Mastery Award and finalist in both Breeder Excellence and Breeder Vision, to share the real-world realities of breeding and preserving one of the UK’s rarest giants.

From the emotional toll of small litters and stillbirths to navigating import logistics, fertility challenges and the changing culture of dog showing, Steve’s story is a masterclass in long-term commitment. For support tailored to your breed, background and breeding mindset, join the Brew Crew and connect with breeders who understand that protecting a breed means playing the long game.

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e25
👉 Follow Steve & Tracy on Instagram: @womlu_mastiffs
 

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What does raising truly well-rounded puppies actually involve once the excitement wears off and the hard work begins?

In this episode, Sara sits down with Sam Chamberlain, winner of the Top Puppy Parent Award and finalist for Breeder Excellence, to unpack the real-life routines, tough decisions, and thoughtful systems behind her standout litters.

From managing a surprise midnight whelping to balancing high standards with everyday chaos, Sam shares how she navigates owner expectations with structure and honesty. For support tailored to your breed, background and breeding mindset, join the Brew Crew and discover what top-tier puppy parenting really looks like.

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e24

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

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What does actual attentiveness look like in the whelping room?

In this episode, Sara chats with Helen Farnes, winner of the Attentive Owner Award, whose blend of instinct, experience and calm decisiveness has earned her a reputation for gold-standard care before, during and after whelping.

From managing a complex labour with a mummified pup to standing firm against vet advice when it mattered most, Helen shares how her background in farming, paired with a project manager’s mindset, shapes every part of her breeding practice. 

For guidance that respects your breed, background and breeding mindset, join the Brew Crew and learn from breeders like Helen, who lead with heart and hands-on wisdom.

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e23

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What happens when instinct, science and perseverance finally come together?

In this episode, Sara sits down with Jacquie Mullin, winner of the Holistic Breeder Award and finalist for Rising Star, to discuss how she overcame multiple missed matings and adopted a more open and intentional approach to breeding her beloved Whippets.

From discovering her bitch ovulated late to balancing advice from both racing and show circles, Jacquie's story is packed with practical insight and quiet determination. If you're facing roadblocks or want to make more thoughtful, informed breeding decisions, this episode is for you.

For support shaped around your breed, background and breeding mindset, join the Brew Crew and find the encouragement every breeder deserves.

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e22

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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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What does it take to raise the bar in a breed often misunderstood? 

In this episode, Sara shines a spotlight on Shainy Majidi, winner of the Breeding Vision Award, whose ethical and health-driven approach to French Bulldogs is turning heads for all the right reasons.

From walking away from disappointing stud dogs to raising two litters just nine days apart, Shainy shares what it really takes to breed with purpose, preparation, and persistence. Whether you’re planning your first litter or refining your programme, this episode is packed with insight you won’t find in textbooks.

For support tailored to your breed, background and breeding mindset, join the Brew Crew and connect with breeders who share your standards.

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e20

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

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What does true breeder excellence look like behind the scenes?

In this episode, Sara sits down with Sue Taplin, winner of the Canine Family Planner's Breeder Excellence Award, to uncover the real story behind her decades of dedication to raising well-bred, health-tested Labradors.

From managing 80 dogs in a licensed boarding kennel to supporting new puppy owners with layered educational resources, Sue shares how consistency, compassion and lifelong learning have shaped her approach. Whether you're just starting out or refining your fourth generation, this episode is filled with calm, practical wisdom.

For support that reflects your breed, background and breeding mindset, join the Brew Crew and connect with breeders committed to doing things correctly.

📌 Show Notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e19

👉 Become a Brew Crew Member: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

🔗 Interested in applying for a future Annual Breeder Award? breedersbrew.com/aba

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What are the Annual Breeder Awards—and why do they matter?

In this special solo episode, Sara introduces the ABAs, a new initiative created to recognise breeders who are quietly raising the bar. First in the spotlight is Adam Mayle, winner of the Rising Star Award, whose thoughtful, health-focused approach to breeding Labradors has earned him a growing reputation for doing things the right way.

Adam shares how he moved from German Shepherds to Labradors, the role of mentorship in shaping his journey, and how he balances work, family and breeding without compromising on ethics. From ovulation testing to puppy aftercare, this episode offers grounded, real-life insight into what it truly takes to build a responsible breeding programme.

For breeders seeking tailored support that reflects their breed, background and mindset, join the Brew Crew and be part of a community that celebrates progress and purpose.

📌 Show notes: breedersbrew.com/notes/s3e18

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

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