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When Kristina and Brian Vermeer found themselves hiding an unsightly cat tree every time guests came over, they knew there had to be a better solution. Their stroke of genius came when they merged their love of art with their cats' need for vertical space, creating wall-mounted frames that cats naturally love to inhabit.

"Frame Your Feline was born from a problem that plagues cat parents everywhere – traditional cat trees are functional but frankly, they're eyesores," explains Christina during our conversation. What began as a household hack quickly revealed itself as a revolutionary product when their cats immediately gravitated to the frames, staying for hours at a time. The reason? Cats feel secure in the frame's box-like structure while enjoying an elevated perch to survey their domain.

Their Shark Tank appearance may not have resulted in a deal, but it launched their company into the spotlight. The sharks missed what cat enthusiasts immediately understood – this product transforms cat furniture from something you hide to something you proudly display. Through continuous innovation, the frames evolved from handcrafted wood pieces to recyclable, non-porous materials that can be easily sanitized, making them perfect for homes, shelters, and cat cafes alike. The interchangeable artwork panels that slide behind the frame create multiple revenue streams while allowing pet parents to customize their decor.

Beyond creating beautiful, functional cat furniture, Frame Your Feline demonstrates a deep commitment to feline welfare. Christina regularly photographs shelter cats in frames, capturing their personalities in a relaxed state rather than cowering in cages – dramatically improving their adoption prospects. As board members of Mission Meow, the couple has helped direct over $200,000 in grants to small feline-centric organizations, supporting everything from emergency medical care to trap-neuter-return programs.

Ready to transform your cat's life and your living space? Visit FrameYourFeline.com to browse their collection of frames and artwork panels, including their new Masters Collection featuring famous artworks. Your walls – and your cat – will thank you.

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Ever wondered what it's like to raise a deaf French Bulldog in an apartment while balancing a demanding career? Shannon takes us behind the scenes of life with Peanut, her adorable three-year-old Frenchie who's captured hearts across social media.

What began as a simple desire to document her puppy's growth unexpectedly launched Shannon into the world of pet influencing after a TikTok video about puppy essentials went viral. But the journey hasn't been without challenges. Shannon shares the touching story of discovering Peanut's deafness at six months old, and how they've adapted training methods to focus on visual cues rather than verbal commands. Her practical advice on living with a deaf dog reveals that with proper accommodation, hearing impairments barely impact a dog's quality of life or happiness.

For those considering bringing a French Bulldog into their lives, Shannon offers three critical pieces of wisdom that every potential owner should know. She candidly discusses the breed's health concerns, lifestyle needs, and financial considerations, while balancing these cautions with heartwarming stories about the joy Frenchies bring. Her holistic approach to managing Peanut's health issues provides valuable alternatives to traditional veterinary solutions that many pet parents will find illuminating.

Beyond dog parenthood, Shannon reveals her secrets to maintaining work-life balance while juggling a career in entertainment finance with content creation and wedding planning. Her insights into building a community of dog-loving friends in Los Angeles and the creative ways she's incorporating Peanut into her upcoming wedding celebration showcase how deeply our pets become integrated into every aspect of our lives.

Want to see more of Peanut's adventures or learn from Shannon's experience? Follow @peanut_da_frenchie on Instagram and TikTok, and don't forget to check out Fresh Patch, the indoor potty solution that's been essential to their apartment living journey since day one!

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When Vanessa foster-failed her fourth rescue dog – a gentle giant Great Pyrenees named Cotton – she never expected it would spark a movement. Today, as founder of Dogs Only Social Club, she's created an innovative community bringing together LA's dog lovers through thoughtfully curated events that go far beyond the typical dog park experience.

"I wanted to build a community that I wished existed for me and my dog," Vanessa explains, describing how Cotton helped her connect with strangers during the isolation of COVID. That experience revealed how dogs could bridge social gaps in meaningful ways, inspiring her to create something special for both humans and their four-legged companions.

With her background as a foodie who loves exploring LA's hidden gems, Vanessa crafts experiences where people discover the city with their dogs by their side. From pack hikes along the LA River to pottery sessions where participants create ceramic dog bowls, these events blend adventure, creativity, and purpose. Many gatherings include fundraising components supporting local shelters, reflecting Vanessa's commitment as a shelter volunteer who has fostered 19 dogs to date.

What makes Dogs Only Social Club truly special is the authentic connections forming between strangers. Unlike typical networking events, conversations naturally begin with dogs rather than work talk. Regular attendees find their dogs recognizing each other over time, with even shy or reactive dogs gradually becoming more comfortable. The events provide structured environments where dogs at all training levels can practice socialization safely, while humans form friendships based on shared love for their pets.

Looking toward the future, Vanessa dreams of collaborating with Dodgers Stadium and eventually opening a wine bar with an off-leash area. Until then, she continues building this community one event at a time, creating spaces where both dogs and humans thrive together.

Follow Dogs Only Social Club on Instagram or visit dogsonlysocialclub.com to join their mailing list for first access to upcoming free events happening throughout Los Angeles.

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Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes at a company that ships real grass to dogs? Meet Akim George, the beating heart of our Fresh Patch warehouse operations and the subject of our latest podcast episode.

Akim's journey is as unique as our product. Born in Grenada (specifically from Guave in St. John's parish, known as "the tongue that never sleeps"), he migrated to America at age 12, navigating the challenges of cultural adaptation while maintaining his Caribbean identity. His path eventually led him to Fresh Patch in October 2021, where he's climbed from entry-level to warehouse supervisor through dedication, innovation, and an infectiously positive attitude.

What makes Akim's story particularly compelling is how his personality shapes our workplace culture. His 4 AM wake-up routine, problem-solving approach, and the reggae music that flows through our warehouse create an environment where work feels less like work. Perhaps most endearing is his special relationship with our office dogs – particularly Stella, who joins him for morning "cardio" runs, and the treat bag he maintains by the office entrance that makes him a favorite among our four-legged team members.

When people learn about Fresh Patch's unique product – real grass delivered in boxes for dogs to use as potties – they often respond with curiosity and interest. Through Akim's experiences, we get a glimpse of how our innovative solution is perceived and the conversations it sparks. As he puts it, explaining Fresh Patch to others typically elicits positive reactions: "Wow, that's very interesting. I never heard of any idea like that before."

Whether you're a dog owner, entrepreneur, or simply enjoy authentic stories of career growth and workplace culture, this episode offers a refreshing look at what makes Fresh Patch special beyond our product. Subscribe to the Potty Talk Podcast and follow us @freshpatch on social media to join our community of pet lovers revolutionizing how dogs potty indoors.

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Ever wondered how those seemingly perfect pet influencers balance it all? Maddie from @myboyrudder pulls back the curtain on her journey from creating a "digital baby book" for her dog to becoming an educational content creator with a passionate following—all while maintaining a corporate career.

When her dog Rudder underwent TPLO surgery during a snowy Chicago winter, Fresh Patch became an unexpected solution that would later prove invaluable during a move to apartment living in Brooklyn. Maddie thoughtfully addresses the misconceptions about using potty solutions for dogs, explaining how her educational approach naturally led to a community that understands and supports her philosophy.

The conversation takes an inspiring turn as Maddie reveals how social connections made through Instagram DMs have blossomed into meaningful real-world friendships. "As an adult, it's always more difficult to make friends," she shares, "but especially when you have a more niche interest." Her authenticity has created a network of people who not only follow her content but feel genuinely connected to Rudder—often approaching them on the street with the warmth of meeting an old friend.

Balancing content creation with a full-time job isn't without challenges. With refreshing honesty, Maddie discusses the emotional ups and downs of managing expectations, creating valuable content, and maintaining partnerships while protecting her mental health. Her advice for aspiring influencers emphasizes passion and authenticity over trends or forced personas, offering wisdom gained through years of navigating this complex landscape.

The episode culminates with the heartwarming story of an impromptu cross-country road trip with Rudder following an unexpected layoff—a reminder that sometimes our pets inspire us to embrace adventures we might otherwise miss. Tune in to discover how one pet parent transformed her genuine love for dogs into educational content, meaningful community, and even her own supplement brand, all while navigating the realities of modern life.

Follow Maddie and Rudder on Instagram and TikTok @myboyrudder and discover Fresh Patch's real grass solutions at freshpatch.com.

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A hidden crisis lurks in the Phoenix metro area—nearly one million cats roam the streets, alleys, and parking lots. Valerie from Phoenix Ferals didn't start out as a cat rescuer, but discovering kittens in her apartment complex parking lot launched her into an unexpected journey.

Through trial and error, mentorship, and sheer determination, Valerie has become a dedicated advocate for these forgotten felines. She navigates the complex world of feral cat management with compassion and practical wisdom, explaining the crucial differences between truly feral cats (wild, unsocialized) and strays (lost or abandoned pets). While some cats thrive best in their outdoor colonies after being spayed/neutered, others—particularly young kittens—deserve the chance at indoor homes.

The trap-neuter-return (TNR) process becomes almost addictive, she reveals. There's an adrenaline rush watching a cat approach a trap, knowing that one successful capture means one less cat contributing to the overpopulation crisis. For males, neutering ends the constant fighting and roaming that leads to injuries. For females, spaying means freedom from the exhausting cycle of pregnancy and nursing.

Most touching are the stories of transformation—Fran, the feral cat who after four years of patient relationship-building, decided on her own terms to retire indoors for her final year of life. Or little Milo, the palm-sized kitten who will soon join a rescue and find his forever home instead of facing the harsh realities of street life.

Whether you're dealing with feral cats in your neighborhood or looking for ways to enrich your indoor cat's life, Valerie's experiences offer valuable insights. Check out Phoenix Ferals on social media to follow her ongoing rescue work and reach out with your questions about managing feral cats in your community.

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Have you ever wondered what happens when you combine an adorable orange cat with the world of exotic supercars? Meet Nigel, the barn-born feline who accidentally became an internet sensation after being photographed sitting in a Ferrari intake at just 10 weeks old.

In this fascinating conversation with Nigel's owner Mun (@mundanewaifu), we explore how a casual decision to bring her kitten to a car event snowballed into viral fame overnight. Mun shares the thoughtful desensitization training that allows Nigel to remain calm amid the roaring engines at Formula Drift events and exotic car meets. Far from being stressed by these environments, Nigel has developed distinct preferences – particularly for cars with wings like the McLaren Senna GTR, where he notoriously falls asleep regardless of surrounding noise.

What makes Nigel's story particularly compelling is how his presence has opened doors in the automotive world. Despite only being interested in cars for about three years, Mun has formed connections with renowned figures in car culture, experienced rides in rare supercars, and built a dedicated following where fans sometimes scream Nigel's name upon spotting him at events. Yet beyond the glitz of exotic automobiles, some of their favorite moments involve simpler pleasures – Nigel watching rain from the porch, being buried in sand at the beach, or enjoying chicken at his favorite ramen restaurant.

For anyone interested in content creation with pets, Mun offers valuable wisdom: always prioritize your pet's comfort, ignore skeptics, and pursue content that genuinely excites you rather than following trends. The authenticity of their journey resonates throughout every story shared, revealing how sometimes the most unexpected combinations create the most compelling content.

Follow Mun and Nigel's continuing adventures on Instagram, and don't forget to subscribe to the Potty Talk podcast for more unique perspectives on pet ownership and training!

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What if everything you thought you knew about dog training was missing a critical element? In this eye-opening conversation with professional dog trainer Taylor Cezanne, we explore the transformative power of force-free training methods that build happier, more confident dogs.

Taylor shares her journey from aspiring veterinarian to acclaimed dog trainer whose content reaches millions. After being mentored by the author of PetSmart's training manual, she developed a deeply empathetic approach that's changing how people understand their canine companions. "They're not doing anything bad or wrong ever," Taylor explains, drawing a thoughtful parallel between puppies and human toddlers. "It's really our job to navigate them through situations."

One revelation that might revolutionize your approach: unrealistic expectations are sabotaging your puppy's potty training. Taylor explains that consistency isn't just helpful—it's essential for developing what she calls "a secure dog." We dive into fascinating insights about dogs' internal clocks and how predictable routines create the foundation for successful training. The conversation takes a particularly interesting turn when Taylor reveals her observations about how products like Fresh Patch create seamless transitions to outdoor potty habits compared to traditional puppy pads.

Perhaps most powerful is Taylor's perspective on "misbehavior." Rather than seeing problems as defiance, she reframes them as communications of unmet needs. This simple shift transforms frustrating moments into opportunities for deeper connection with your dog. Whether you're struggling with a new puppy or looking to strengthen your bond with an older dog, this conversation offers practical wisdom that honors your dog's nature while making your life together more harmonious.

Follow @taylorcezanne on social media for more training tips and visit freshpatch.com to explore how real grass delivered to your door can simplify potty training.

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Prepare to have your assumptions challenged about what your feline friends truly need for their wellbeing. Our conversation with Dominique from the popular Instagram account Miss Ivy Cat reveals why grass isn't just for dogs—it's a vital part of creating a thriving environment for indoor cats too.

Dominique shares the heartwarming story of adopting her "soulmate in cat form," a special needs shelter cat named Ivy who waited patiently for the right person to come along. What started as a personal photo diary to avoid bombarding friends with endless cat pictures unexpectedly blossomed into a platform with thousands of followers, allowing her to advocate for special needs pet adoption and proper feline enrichment.

The real revelation comes when Dominique explains how Fresh Patch transformed her cats' indoor experience. "There's not a lot that can go wrong when you have fresh, organic, good grass at an animal's disposal," she notes, describing how both Ivy and her second rescue, Olive, immediately took to the real grass with pure joy. Beyond simple enjoyment, the living grass provides cooling effects during hot weather (crucial since cats often don't drink enough), opportunities for natural foraging when treats are hidden among the blades, and a sensory connection to their wild instincts that artificial turf simply cannot replicate.

For apartment dwellers concerned about outdoor dangers like traffic, predators and pesticides, Fresh Patch offers a solution that Dominique's neighbor summed up perfectly: "Every cat should have this. Even if they don't need it, they need it." As we prepare to unveil an exciting new cat-specific product at this year's Cat Con in Pasadena, we invite you to rethink what enrichment means for your indoor cats and consider how a touch of the natural world might just bring out their wild side in the safest possible way.

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Drew pulls back the curtain on his nine-year journey at Fresh Patch, revealing the hilarious, challenging, and sometimes disastrous moments that have shaped his experience from warehouse worker to Marketing Director.

The conversation kicks off with Drew's unforgettable first marketing event at the Beverly Hilton. What should have been a glamorous opportunity to showcase Fresh Patch to celebrities quickly devolved into chaos as torrential rain flooded the outdoor venue with four inches of water. Picture Fresh Patch products literally floating away and team members trudging through water with soaked shoes – a baptism by fire that left Drew vowing "never again" to outdoor events during rainy season!

Before his marketing days, Drew mastered warehouse operations where efficiency was paramount. He recalls the evolution from frustratingly slow strapping machines to more streamlined packing processes, and the creation of "Warehouse Olympics" – friendly competitions to see who could tape boxes, wrap pallets, and cut grass the fastest while maintaining quality standards. Even years later, Drew still enjoys showing newer warehouse staff he hasn't lost his touch.

The most epic tale involves a cross-country adventure delivering Fresh Patch supplies to their Georgia warehouse. Driving a 26-foot box truck limited to 65 mph through Texas highways with 80 mph speed limits, Drew watched in frustration as vehicles zoomed past. When his co-pilot revealed he couldn't drive at night or in windy conditions, Drew handled nearly all driving duties himself. The experience gave him profound respect for professional truck drivers who navigate these challenges daily.

These stories don't just entertain – they reveal the dedication, flexibility, and good humor that have helped build Fresh Patch into the successful company it is today. Catch Fresh Patch at upcoming events like Pups in the Park at Dodger Stadium and Cat Con in Pasadena – just don't expect to see Drew there if rain is in the forecast!

Thanks for listening to the Fresh Patch podcast brought to you by Fresh Patch. We hope you enjoyed the show. Give us a like or a follow, or shop all of our real grass supplies at freshpatch.com. Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Youtube, Reddit