When Cody Lloyd brought home his first retriever, he did what most of us do — pieced together training from YouTube, books, and whatever he could find online. He ended up with a “good enough” gun dog… but not the steady, reliable partner he knew was possible.

In this episode, Cody shares how he went from feeling stuck with a 2–3 year–old dog to building the once-in-a-lifetime hunting partner he’d always dreamed of — without sending Bo off to a pro trainer. You’ll hear about generational hunting roots, the chaos of a pit blind with a breaking dog, the duck no one could find, and the one-whistle cast that changed everything.

We also dive into why he restarted with Cornerstone’s 52+ from day one, how the community helped him solve specific problems (like picking up giant honkers), and why it’s not too late if you feel behind with your dog.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Can my dog really get to that next level?” this conversation will fire you up and give you hope.

Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?

Visit: Cornerstone Gundog Academy

Need gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?

Visit: Retriever Training Supply

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From the very beginning of Cornerstone, Chad Duckworth has been part of the CGA family. In this episode, Chad shares one of the most powerful DIY retriever journeys we’ve ever featured—starting with his first dog, Moose, who was once labeled “not cut out” for gun-dog work after a rough pro-training experience. But instead of giving up, Chad rolled up his sleeves, trusted the process, and trained Moose himself through CGA—turning that dog into a steady, reliable hunting partner who accompanied him on countless incredible days in the field.

Chad opens up about the highs, the heartbreak, and the unforgettable final hunt Moose made by his side. He then walks us through the new chapter with his pup, Winnie—a young, driven retriever whose journey has been built slowly, intentionally, and the right way. From foundational obedience to first hunts, swan retrieves, road trips, chapter meetups, and the lessons learned between dogs one and two… this episode is packed with wisdom for any handler who wants to build something special with their dog.

Whether you’re just starting out, rebuilding a dog, or navigating the roller coaster of training your first retriever, Chad’s story will remind you why the journey matters, why patience pays off, and why doing it yourself creates a bond unlike anything else.

Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?

Visit: Cornerstone Gundog Academy

Need gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?

Visit: Retriever Training Supply

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Chad Batton’s story is one every handler can relate to: starting with doubt, feeling the pressure to “get it right,” and hoping to do justice to a well-bred dog. What began with a fear of failure quickly turned into a deep passion for training, community, and the entire retriever lifestyle. In this episode, Chad shares how Cornerstone Gundog Academy helped him build confidence, overcome defining moments like fetch-hold-release, and eventually discover the joy of training multiple dogs. His journey is honest, encouraging, and packed with insight for anyone on the path of building their first retriever.

Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?

Visit: Cornerstone Gundog Academy

Need gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?

Visit: Retriever Training Supply

Interested in sponsoring the BuildFromHere Podcast?

Fill out this form and tell us more about promoting your product, service, or brand.

Want to check out Chad Batton's Kennel for training and puppies?

Find him at: @dogwoodretrievers on Instagram!

Josh sits down with longtime CGA member and founding supporter Marshall Anliker to talk hunting, dogs, and the power of community. Marshall shares how a blizzard goose hunt with his great-grandfather lit the fire for waterfowling, how that led him to British Labradors and Southern Oak Kennels, and why Cornerstone has been part of his last three dogs.

From college days stacking classes around duck hunts to running a roofing company and training high-drive British Labs at a high level, Marshall opens up about genetics, discipline, reward timing, and what it really means to “train the dog in front of you.” If you’re serious about building a steady, family-friendly hunting companion and you love hearing real stories from real CGA members, this episode is for you.

Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?

Visit: Cornerstone Gundog Academy

Need gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?

Visit: Retriever Training Supply

Interested in sponsoring the BuildFromHere Podcast?

Fill out this form and tell us more about promoting your product, service, or brand.

In this episode of the BuildFromHere Podcast, Josh talks with CGA Member Blake Allen. This episode covers Blake's journey from early failure to Grand title. Blake Allen explains how Cornerstone Gundog Academy helped him build a rock-solid foundation with Rose that enabled him to go on and turn his initial failure into success. In this episode you will learn practical, foundation-first tips for steadiness, calm handling, and consistent progress—whether you’re hunting or running tests.

Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?

Visit: Cornerstone Gundog Academy

Need gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?

Visit: Retriever Training Supply

Interested in sponsoring the BuildFromHere Podcast?

Fill out this form and tell us more about promoting your product, service, or brand.

In this episode of Build From Here, Joshua Parvin talks with CGA member Russ Freehling about a lifetime of waterfowling, finishing the 41-species North American quest, and the rewards of training his own retriever—from backyard drills to seasoning a pup on real hunts. Tune in for practical training tips, creative urban adaptations, and the joy of building a true hunting partnership.

Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?

Visit: Cornerstone Gundog Academy

Need gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?

Visit: Retriever Training Supply

Interested in sponsoring the BuildFromHere Podcast?

Fill out this form and tell us more about promoting your product, service, or brand.

Want to learn more about the Ultimate Waterfowl Challenge?

Visit the website here: https://waterfowlerschallenge.com/

#073 Every dog owner remembers the moment everything clicked, but few journeys are as transformative as watching a nervous college student evolve into a confident hunting partner alongside his retriever. Colin Berry takes us through five incredible years with Milo, from that fateful puppy pickup day when flip-flops and non-toe-biting behavior sealed the deal, to their recent epic Kansas waterfowl hunt that showcased the power of patience and proper foundation training.

We dive deep into the real challenges first-time retriever owners face - the overwhelming stress of potentially ruining a dog with excellent genetics, the comparison trap of social media training posts, and the crucial realization that steadiness trumps flashy retrieving skills every single time. Through candid storytelling, we explore how Milo taught invaluable lessons about patience that extended far beyond training sessions into every aspect of life.

The conversation reveals why true hunting dog excellence isn't measured by complex retrieves but by the ability to sit steady while hundreds of birds circle overhead. We discuss integrating working dogs into daily routines, the power of community connections through retriever training, and how shared hunting experiences create bonds that last a lifetime. Whether you're considering your first retriever or looking to deepen your understanding of the training journey, this episode offers honest insights and practical wisdom. Subscribe now and discover why the best hunting partnerships are built on trust, patience, and countless shared memories in the blind.

#72 What happens when the digital world of retriever training transforms into face-to-face connections? The answer lies in the groundbreaking Nashville Chapter event – the very first Cornerstone Gundog Academy chapter gathering that's changing how retriever owners train, learn, and build community.

Kevin Wright returns to the podcast to share the remarkable success story of organizing and hosting this inaugural chapter event. As a passionate CGA member who took the initiative to bring fellow retriever enthusiasts together, Kevin offers valuable insights into how the Nashville Chapter came together, what made their first gathering so special, and why this model represents the future of retriever training communities.

The Nashville experience demonstrates how the supportive online CGA community translates perfectly to in-person gatherings. Members who previously knew each other only through screens instantly connected on a deeper level when meeting face-to-face. Dogs and handlers alike benefited from the collaborative training environment where mistakes weren't just accepted but viewed as valuable learning opportunities. From basic obedience to water retrieves, every dog received plenty of work while handlers exchanged knowledge, encouragement, and friendship.

Beyond the training itself, what stands out most is the genuine community being formed. Several members brought their families, transforming retriever training into a wholesome activity everyone can enjoy together. After the formal training concluded, participants stayed for an additional hour and a half simply enjoying each other's company – proof that these chapters are about much more than dog training alone.

Looking to the future, Kevin shares exciting plans for monthly Nashville Chapter gatherings and even group hunting trips. He also reveals details about the upcoming CGA app that will further enhance chapter communications and community building. For those inspired to start their own local chapter, Kevin offers this encouragement: "Just get one other person. If it's just two of you, it doesn't have to be the biggest event, just start something... if you build it, they will come."

Whether you're already a CGA member wondering how to connect with local retriever enthusiasts or someone considering joining this supportive community, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into how the retriever training journey becomes infinitely more rewarding when shared with others who understand and support your goals.

#071 What happens when perfectionism meets a headstrong Labrador? Blair Badham shares his transformative journey from frustrated dog owner to confident trainer through perseverance, community support, and a crucial mindset shift.

Blair's story begins with his childhood love of the outdoors, fishing with his father and eventually discovering hunting. Despite having no family background in dog training, Blair took on the challenge of training his British Black Lab, Gus, as both a family companion and hunting retriever. The early days were marked by frustration – Blair's perfectionist tendencies clashed with Gus's high-energy personality, creating a strained relationship rather than the bond he hoped for.

A chance encounter with a neighbor walking his well-trained retriever introduced Blair to Cornerstone Gundog Academy, providing the structured approach he desperately needed. "I needed a plan," Blair explains. "Give me the play, coach, and I'll go execute it." With this clear roadmap, training sessions became more productive and enjoyable for both Blair and Gus, though challenges remained – particularly with the critical fetch-hold-release sequence that left Gus confused and Blair discouraged.

The breakthrough came when Blair learned to prioritize "wins" over perfection. This simple yet profound shift – celebrating progress rather than fixating on flaws – transformed their training relationship. Equally important was finding community through training events where Blair could gain perspective on Gus's abilities and connect with others facing similar challenges. "Being surrounded by a community of people who highlight their imperfections in the process is very important," Blair shares. "You can tell somebody it's okay not to be perfect, but for somebody to sit next to you and tell you a story about how imperfect their dog was is a whole different dynamic."

Whether you're struggling with a specific training challenge, balancing dog training with family responsibilities, or simply looking for encouragement in your journey, Blair's story offers valuable insights about patience, community, and the joy of watching your retriever discover their purpose. As he prepares for Gus's first hunting season, his advice rings true for any dog owner: focus on the wins, chill out, and trust the process.

#070 Wade Skeen's path from Air Force serviceman to Kansas waterfowl guide extraordinaire reveals how passion, community, and proper training methods can transform both careers and gundogs. As a longtime Cornerstone Gundog Academy member before becoming a professional outfitter, Wade brings a uniquely valuable perspective that bridges the worlds of retriever training and professional hunting.

Growing up in Mississippi with a focus on whitetail and turkey hunting, Wade's move to Kansas in 2012 opened his eyes to an underappreciated waterfowl paradise. What began as occasional hunts with friends evolved into Skeen Outfitters, now one of the premier guided waterfowl experiences in the Midwest. Against all odds, Wade launched his business in March 2020 just as COVID hit, yet through determination and a foundation of strong relationships, particularly within the CGA community, his operation has flourished.

The conversation delves deep into Wade's transformation as a dog trainer, contrasting his experience with traditional methods versus the methodical approach of Cornerstone training. His position as both guide and trainer offers rare insights into what truly matters in hunting dogs: "Your dog's demeanor when not retrieving birds is actually much more important than how it retrieves birds." This perspective reinforces how proper foundation training creates adaptable, steady companions that enhance rather than detract from hunting experiences.

Wade and Josh recount several memorable hunts together, including an extraordinary day filming for television where everything aligned perfectly—dog work, hunting conditions, and camaraderie. These stories highlight the unpredictable nature of waterfowl hunting that keeps enthusiasts coming back season after season.

As the conversation closes, Wade shares his most valuable advice for dog trainers: "Throw expectations out the window. Enjoy the process itself—the wins, the losses. Just focus on each 15-minute training session, day in and day out, and your dog will far surpass what goals you ever had in mind anyway." It's a powerful reminder that in both dog training and life, the journey often matters more than the destination.

Connect with Wade at SkeenOutfitters.com or find him on social media to experience one of the best waterfowl hunts available—with the added bonus of bringing your Cornerstone-trained retriever along for the adventure.