The Fresh Patch Podcast - Where Good Pets Get It.

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A condo with no backyard, a dog who missed the grass, and a soon-to-be new parent looking for a fix—sometimes a company starts with a very real, very personal need. We sit down with Andrew and Karina, the founders of Fresh Patch, to unpack how a simple idea—delivering real, hydroponically grown grass to pet parents—became a nationally recognized brand and a staple for training, convenience, and enrichment.

You’ll hear the full origin story, from that first Prius loaded with 20 patches to the early goal of 100 subscribers. We get into the Shark Tank saga: three seasons of auditions, a relentless prep bootcamp led by family, and the curveball of a broken foot just before filming. The pitch aired, momentum exploded, and the reruns kept the flywheel spinning—but the real backbone was years of hands-on work, honest customer conversations, and a product that solved accidents, stress, and schedule gaps for urban pet owners.

We also dig into impact. Fresh Patch now supports shelters and rescues with donated grass to help dogs succeed in new homes, tackling the number one reason for returns: potty accidents. The team has grown the vision beyond dogs, with cat condos, cat grass, and enrichment for bunnies and even raptors—because scent, texture, and drainage matter across species. Inside the company, we talk culture, resilience, and the costly mistakes that taught them to test, iterate, and keep moving. The aim is clear: become the trusted name people think of when they want to bring the outdoors in for their pets, while staying good to customers, employees, suppliers, and the planet.

If you care about pet training, startup grit, or how mission and product meet real-world outcomes, this conversation delivers practical insight and heart. Subscribe, share with a fellow pet parent, and leave a review to tell us what part of the journey inspired you most.

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

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Ever wonder what happens when a company actually answers the phone and solves your problem with care? We pull back the curtain on Fresh Patch’s customer service with Tassara, who went from call center burnout to leading a team that pet parents rave about. From scrappy Starbucks interviews to handling 4 a.m. “Where’s my grass?” emails, this conversation shows how real humans, clear training advice, and a non-toxic team culture can turn stressful moments into loyal fans and well-trained dogs.

We dig into the everyday wins and weird surprises that come with supporting dog families—like the memorable DIY “attractant” story—and why having a knowledgeable person on the line beats chatbot loops. You’ll hear practical, field-tested tips for potty training with real grass: short daily sessions, positive reinforcement, setting a routine, and using an attractant spray to speed up success. We also share event stories where dogs make the case themselves, beelining to the XL display and proving how real grass taps their instincts, controls odor, and makes apartment life and bad-weather days easier.

What stands out is the people-first approach: leadership that trusts, teammates who mentor, and a service mindset that listens before it fixes. If you’ve struggled with pee pads, delayed deliveries, or inconsistent training, you’ll walk away with a plan and the reassurance that support is just a call away. Subscribe, share this with a fellow dog parent, and leave a review telling us your best training win or the question you want us to tackle next. Your story might be the one that helps someone else finally get it to click.

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

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What happens when two entertainment pros turn a passion project into a fast-growing, foster-first rescue that’s saved over 1,300 dogs? We sit down with Victoria and Riley of Pup Culture Rescue to unpack the personal, organized approach behind their success—gold-standard medical care from day one, a facility that supports but doesn’t replace foster homes, and a simple idea that changes outcomes: a one-week trial built into every adoption so families and dogs get the best fit.

We also dig into a surprisingly powerful tool for training and welfare: real grass potty pads. From apartment living to young puppies who aren’t fully vaccinated, real grass creates a clear bridge from indoor habits to outdoor reliability, stays cleaner than plastic turf, and reduces odors and heat. The team shares how dogs roll on fresh sod every Monday, how it keeps runs cleaner, and how that small upgrade helps keep more dogs in their homes.

The episode’s emotional core is Susie, a sweet, people-loving dog with multiple liver shunts. As toxins affect her brain, her behavior around dogs has changed, even though she thrives with humans. In a quiet foster home she rested, sunbathed, and followed her person room to room; back at a noisy facility, stress rises. She needs a no-dog home, a yard, and simple twice-daily meds, and she will give you endless toy sprints and belly rub requests. We talk through the medical puzzle, the training implications, and how the right environment can unlock her best self.

If you’re near Pasadena or beyond, you can help: sign up to volunteer on Pup Culture’s website, share an adoptable dog on Instagram, or consider fostering with their supported, low-friction process. Want to meet the team? Join the Halloween-themed adoption event at the Bentley showroom in Beverly Hills on Friday, October 24th, 4–7 p.m., where proceeds support the rescue and adoptable dogs shine on a real-grass runway. Love what you hear? Follow the show, share this episode with a friend, and leave a review so more people can discover dogs like Susie and the rescuers who fight for them.

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

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Sally Williams never expected a hammock moment with her cat would spark a nationwide movement. As founder and president of Mission Meow, she's pioneering an innovative approach to saving America's struggling cat rescues through what she calls "business crowdfunding" - and the results are nothing short of remarkable.

The cat overpopulation crisis in America is reaching alarming levels, with female kittens able to reproduce by just four months of age. Small, grassroots organizations doing critical Trap-Neuter-Return work and providing adoption services are closing their doors at disturbing rates, often because they lack funding, recognition, and community support. Mission Meow steps in precisely where traditional funding falls short, providing substantial grants that transform these small rescues - from helping them acquire TNR equipment to building clinical spaces for cats awaiting adoption.

What truly sets Mission Meow apart is what Sally calls "the Mission Meow effect." Beyond financial support, recipient organizations report growth in their donor bases, increased volunteer participation, and renewed enthusiasm for their missions. Perhaps most poignantly, one rescue confided they had planned to close their doors despite having adequate funding because "they didn't think anybody cared" - a heartbreaking revelation that underscores how recognition and community support can be as crucial as financial assistance.

With nearly 90 business partners and growing individual donor support, Mission Meow has created a family-like community dedicated to feline welfare. Whether you can contribute $5 monthly (which Sally emphasizes makes a tremendous difference), volunteer your skills, or simply help spread awareness, there's a place for everyone in this mission. As Sally reflects, "I didn't know giving back would become the greatest joy of my life." Visit missionmeow.org to discover how you can join this transformative movement and help ensure no cat rescue closes simply because nobody cared.

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

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When was the last time someone told you to "touch grass"? That popular gaming meme has become reality through an unexpected but brilliant collaboration between Fresh Patch and G Fuel. This episode dives into the details of our limited-edition "Touch Grass" package that combines 100% real, hydroponically grown California grass with G Fuel's refreshing new flavor that evokes the sensation of being outdoors.

Gaming content creator OMG It's Firefox joins hosts Drew and Gabe to taste test the new G Fuel flavor, describing its unique cucumber-inspired profile with sweet and sour notes. The conversation flows naturally from this innovative product launch to Firefox's fascinating journey in content creation, which began with a spontaneous flight from Canada to E3 that changed the trajectory of her career forever.

Firefox shares insights from her evolution as a content creator, from her early streaming days to her current focus on automotive content and racing. Her passion for cars extends from virtual racing simulators to real-world tracks, where she earned her racing license through Skip Barber Racing School. The hosts and Firefox bond over their shared interests in F1 racing, discussing favorite drivers and the sport's growing popularity in the United States.

The conversation takes a delightful turn when Firefox introduces us to her cat Gonzo, a reluctant Twitch star with his own emotes on her channel. This leads to a broader discussion about cat behavior and Fresh Patch's expansion into cat products. Drew even considers overcoming his cat allergies to bring a feline friend into the Fresh Patch office, showing just how far the company has come from its dog-focused beginnings.

Ready to experience the outdoors without leaving your gaming setup? Grab one of only 250 limited-edition "Touch Grass" packages before they're gone forever. Follow Fresh Patch on all social platforms for updates on this collaboration and exciting new cat products coming soon!

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

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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.

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

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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!

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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