Can fostering rescue dogs help you process grief—or will it just break your heart all over again?
In this deeply emotional and beautifully honest episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Joel, whose story of grief, rescue, and love will stick with you long after the episode ends. What started as a plan to foster turned into a life-changing journey with two dogs who taught him everything about patience, healing, and the power of enrichment and structure in a multi-dog home.

In this episode:

• Learn how Joel supported two rescue dogs with behavior needs like separation anxiety

• Hear how structure, enrichment, and emotional presence helped rebuild trust—for both dogs and humans

• Get inspired by the way love can grow in unexpected places—even in the middle of loss

Press play to hear Joel’s story of how rescue dogs helped him grieve, grow, and find lasting connection—one behavior breakthrough at a time.

Sponsored by Fat Sam’s for Pets

Save at Urban Apothecary with code SUDT → urbanapothecary.shop

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Ever felt like you’re drowning in enrichment plans, behavior issues, and pack dynamics—while trying to hold it all together?
In this real-talk episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Denise—multi-dog guardian and founder of The Doggy Den—about the emotional labor of raising five rescue dogs while running a pet-centered business. From setting boundaries to managing burnout, Denise shares what actually helps when life feels overwhelming.

In this episode:

• Learn how to build enrichment and behavior structure that works in multi-dog homes

• Discover the boundaries and routines that protect your energy as a dog parent

• Hear the honest truth about burnout, emotional overwhelm, and what recovery can look like

Press play for an unfiltered, supportive conversation that reminds you: taking care of yourself is part of showing up for your dogs.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Does your dog panic when you leave—and leave you feeling trapped, guilty, or burned out?
In this vulnerable and validating episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em sits down with Kendra, a nurse and devoted rescue dog mom, to talk about what separation anxiety really looks like—beyond training protocols and social media soundbites. Through real stories and honest reflections, Kendra shares how life with her dog Luka became a journey of emotional growth, resilience, and connection.

In this episode:

• Understand the emotional toll of living with a dog with separation anxiety

• Learn how enrichment, routine, and mindset shifts helped create structure and relief

• Get encouragement and perspective from a dog mom who's lived the hardest parts—and kept going

Press play for grounded, judgment-free insight on navigating separation anxiety—with tools, empathy, and support for both ends of the leash.

Guest Info:

Follow Kendra & Luka: @npkendrafej (Instagram + TikTok)

Explore trusted resources: malenademartini.com | julienaismith.com

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-messy-middle-getting-unstuck-with-your-big-feeling-dog

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Join the Community

https://join.slack.com/t/thedogwhoaskedformore/shared_invite/zt-305kdyab7-y6eTWjbAeSwHItNmloLQUA

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode contains graphic details and emotional discussion surrounding severe aggression, idiopathic rage syndrome, and humane euthanasia. It is not intended for children and may not be suitable for all environments. Please use headphones and care while listening.

What if your dog’s aggression wasn’t behavioral—but neurological, unpredictable, and impossible to manage safely?
In this raw and emotionally courageous episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by Lana to share their personal stories with idiopathic aggression, often called rage syndrome—a rare and devastating condition that affects some dogs without warning or cause. Together, they break the silence around this heartbreaking diagnosis and explore the emotional complexity of loving a dog you can’t save.

In this episode:

• Understand what idiopathic aggression is—and what it’s not

• Learn about the emotional, behavioral, and safety struggles that come with managing this rare condition

• Hear how guardians navigate guilt, grief, and advocacy when the only humane choice is letting go

Press play for an honest, compassionate conversation about one of the dog world’s most misunderstood realities—and why choosing peace is never a failure.

Guest Info:
Follow Lana & Ares:
Instagram: @loki.the.maligator_

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of The Messy Middle: Getting Unstuck with your Big Feeling Dog

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-messy-middle-getting-unstuck-with-your-big-feeling-dog

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Join the Community

https://join.slack.com/t/thedogwhoaskedformore/shared_invite/zt-305kdyab7-y6eTWjbAeSwHItNmloLQUA

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Can you raise rescue dogs and houseplants—without chaos, stress, or giving up the things you love?
In this lighthearted and inspiring episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Felicia about building a joyful, pet-safe life that blends houseplants, rescue dogs, and intentional living. From choosing the right plants to creating everyday enrichment for her pups, Felicia shares how honoring her personality and passions helped her create a calm, colorful home that works for everyone in it.

In this episode:

• Learn how to safely raise houseplants in a dog-filled home

• Discover how enrichment shows up in small, daily routines—not just toys and training

• Hear how dogs and plants have been powerful teachers in slowing down and creating a life that feels good

Press play to explore how building a pet-safe, enriched home starts with embracing your quirks—and designing a life that works for both paws and plants.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Ever felt like you just weren’t cut out to be a “dog person”? You’re not alone—and you might just be wrong (in the best way).
In this heartfelt and joy-filled episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with Veeta about her surprising journey from self-proclaimed non-dog person to beagle-obsessed dog mom. With honesty, humor, and heart, Veeta shares how life with Habby helped her build confidence, embrace imperfection, and discover the power of emotional connection, daily enrichment, and learning through love.

In this episode:

• Learn how understanding a dog’s behavior can grow your confidence—even if you’re new to training

• Hear how enrichment and play helped Habby settle into his home and thrive

• Discover why emotional bonding is often more important than “doing it right”

Press play for a feel-good story that’ll inspire you to lean into the mess, love your dog more deeply—and maybe become a dog person after all.

Guest Info: Follow Veeta + Habby: @habbythebeagle

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of the Mini Bowl Blueprint

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-mini-bowl-blueprint

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

This episode is sponsored by PetMatRx

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Feeling stuck, bored, or disconnected in your training journey—or unsure where to start with your high-energy or reactive dog?
In this inspiring episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em chats with world-renowned trainer Denise Fenzi about how dog sports like rally and obedience can transform your relationship with your dog. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress, connection, and building trust through shared experiences.

In this episode:

• Learn how dog sports naturally improve training results, emotional regulation, and daily behavior

• Discover enrichment-based approaches that are fun, rewarding, and build confidence for both you and your dog

• Get Denise’s expert tips for getting started with sports—even if your dog isn’t “perfect” or you’re feeling burned out

Press play to explore how dog sports can reignite your passion for training—and deepen the bond you share with your dog, one joyful session at a time.

Guest Info:

Instagram: @denise_fenzi🎥 TikTok: @denisefenzi

Explore Denise’s work: liinks.co/denise_fenzi

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of the Mini Bowl Blueprint

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-mini-bowl-blueprint

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

This episode is sponsored by PetMatRx

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of the Mini Bowl Blueprint

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/the-mini-bowl-blueprint

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Have you ever felt like you had to hold it all together while navigating dog reactivity, rescue chaos—or the grief of letting go?
In this tender and deeply human episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em is joined by close friends Josh and Jenn for a raw conversation about what it’s really like to raise, love, and eventually lose rescue dogs. From managing reactivity to building daily enrichment routines—and finding moments of laughter in the darkest seasons—this episode is about love, loss, and never doing it alone.

In this episode:

• Hear how enrichment and individualized training helped these dogs live well—despite big behavior and big feelings

• Learn how grief and humor coexist in a multi-dog household shaped by loss and love

• Discover how shared values and emotional support make the hardest parts of dog parenting a little softer

Press play to feel seen, supported, and reminded that showing up—messy, grieving, laughing—is more than enough.

Guest Info:

Listen to Josh & Jenn’s Podcast: Graphically Novel

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.

Does your reactive dog shut down, struggle to focus, or seem stuck in survival mode?
In this uplifting episode of Straight Up Dog Talk, Em and Josh chat with April from A Tale of Heelers to explore how trick training can offer structure and joy to reactive dogs—without overwhelming pressure. From earning trick titles at home to unlocking daily enrichment through simple behaviors like “spin” or “paw,” this episode shows how training can be both functional and fun.

In this episode:

• Learn why trick training is a powerful enrichment tool for dogs with reactivity or anxiety

• Discover easy ways to start incorporating tricks at home—no fancy equipment needed

• Understand how play-based training can strengthen communication, boost confidence, and deepen your bond

Press play to start building a training routine that’s playful, pressure-free, and powerful for your reactive dog.

Guest Info:

Instagram + TikTok: @ataleofheelers

Website: ataleofheelers.com/links

Trick Title Resources
• AKC Trick Dog Program

• Do More With Your Dog

Straight Up Dog Talk Extras:

Get a free copy of Paws, Brains, and Fun Enrichment eBook

https://straightupdogtalk.com/programs-%26-freebies/ols/products/paws-brains-and-fun-the-ultimate-canine-enrichment-guide

Book a FREE 15-minute call with Em

https://tinyurl.com/tdwafmbooknow

Email [email protected] to get in touch with Em

Looking to BOOST your pet’s daily meal? Try PetMatRx supplements, use code FITZ20, and save! https://petmatrx.com/?ref=tdwafm

This podcast explores real-life dog behavior and training, diving into reactivity, barking, dog anxiety, aggression, picky eating, gut health, and dog food—while unpacking enrichment, mental stimulation, supplements, calming aids, and holistic pet wellness. Whether you’re raising a rescue dog, supporting a senior dog, managing a velcro dog, or just navigating life with a dog who’s asking for more, you’ll find practical tools to build trust, strengthen communication, and create a safe, thriving life together.