Fear has a way of taking the wheel when we least expect it.

In this episode of Tail Talk, Patrick sits down with Shirley Strawberry from The Steve Harvey Morning Show for an honest and surprisingly funny conversation about fear, anxiety, and the stories we carry from childhood.

Joined by therapist Dr. Linda McGhee, the conversation explores where fear comes from, how it shapes our choices, and why overcoming fear isn't about becoming fearless—it's about taking the first step despite being afraid.

Because healing doesn't begin when fear disappears. It begins when we stop letting fear take the wheel.

Sit. Listen. Heal.

Episode Summary

• Shirley shares her lifelong fear of dogs.
• Dr. Linda explains phobias and the fight-or-flight response.
• Patrick helps create a safe space for honest conversation.
• The discussion explores healing through small steps.
• Humor and hope remind us that fear does not have to define us.

Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast

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What happens when a therapy dog starts a podcast?

Welcome to Tail Talk—the first mental health podcast hosted (yes, hosted) by a therapy dog.

In this kickoff episode, “What the Fluff?!”, Patrick the Therapy Doodle (voiced by Trent Whitfield) introduces himself, his co-host Dr. Nikole (Nikki) Scott, and the heart behind the show. Together, they set the stage for something different—real conversations about mental health that feel safe, relatable… and maybe even a little easier to have.

Because sometimes, it’s just easier to open up when a dog is leading the conversation.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Meet Patrick the Therapy Doodle—your host with the most heart

• Trent Whitfield shares how he became the “voice” of Patrick

• Co-host Dr. Nikki Scott brings the clinical perspective—and why these conversations matter now more than ever

• The story behind the Love & Hugs Mental Health Foundation

• How Aidan’s legacy inspired a movement of healing, connection, and purpose

• A little humor (because healing doesn’t have to be heavy)

Why This Podcast Exists

Mental health conversations can feel intimidating, clinical, or just plain hard.

Tail Talk was created to change that.

This podcast is your space to:
- Feel seen
- Feel heard
- And maybe even feel a little lighter

With Patrick leading the way, we’re here to make mental health conversations more human—one story, one laugh, one moment at a time.

About the Mission

Tail Talk is powered by the Love & Hugs Mental Health Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing comfort, connection, and mental health awareness to communities everywhere.

Every episode supports the mission:
- Normalize mental health conversations
- Provide emotional support through connection
- Create moments of healing—big and small

Calls to Action

Join the Movement
Support the show and get exclusive content on Patreon
[ Patreon Link ]

Let’s Connect on LinkedIn
Follow the journey and behind-the-scenes
[LinkedIn Link]

Follow & Subscribe
Available on all major podcast platforms

Coming Up Next

• Grief & Loss: Navigating life after losing a loved one

• Facing Fears: When fear feels bigger than you

• Mental Health at Work: Real talk for real life

Final Thought from Patrick

“If this is your first time here… don’t worry.
This is as bad as it gets.
(It’s a kid-friendly show… mostly.)”

Mixed & Edited by Next Day Podcast

[email protected]