Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Alejandra Avila and Aaron Irmas, the co-founders of PartyAnimal, a California-based company created to make celebrating dogs simpler and more personal. It began with Alejandra wanting to do something special for her dog Maya’s birthday and realizing there was no easy way to bring everything together in one place.

PartyAnimal grew out of that moment. Alejandra leads product development, design, and hands-on creation, while Aaron brings his background in marketing, branding, and entrepreneurship to the business. Together, they built a personalized party experience where dog parents submit a photo of their pup and receive a custom-made celebration delivered in one box.

In this conversation, Alejandra and Aaron talk about building a company as a team, how clearly defined roles helped them grow, and why early feedback from friends, family, and customers shaped the product into what it is today. They also share what it looks like to scale a handmade business, transition fully into ecommerce, and manage the long days that come with fulfilling high volumes of personalized orders.

Giving back sits at the core of PartyAnimal’s mission. As rescue dog parents themselves, they donate 10% of every PartyPack to dog rescue organizations, support adoption efforts by spotlighting dogs in need, and stay personally involved in helping rescues beyond financial contributions.

A thoughtful look at partnership, creativity, and building a business rooted in love for dogs, while using celebration as a way to make a meaningful impact.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Jennifer Estelle, founder of the B & Let Liv Project and creator of Endless Mountains Vineyards, about advocacy, adoption, and the connection between human and animal wellness.

Jennifer shares how adopting Buster, an American Staffordshire terrier, became the turning point that shaped her life’s work. Living with a breed so often misunderstood exposed her to the realities of discrimination and inspired her to create the B & Let Liv Project, a nonprofit focused on education, advocacy, spay and neuter initiatives, and promoting adoption over shopping while honoring Buster’s legacy.

The conversation also explores Endless Mountains Vineyards, a vineyard in Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains that grew from Jennifer’s vision of a restorative space in nature where human healing and animal welfare can coexist.

This episode highlights how one dog can change a life and how purpose-driven spaces can create meaningful impact for people and animals alike.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Carter Easler, Director of Research and Education at CBD Dog Health and MycoDog, about the background, science, and education behind CBD Dog Health. Carter shares the story of the company’s founder, Angela Ardolino, and how her work in rescue, senior dog care, and long-term animal wellness helped shape the foundation of the brand.

The episode explores key distinctions between hemp and cannabis, as well as the differences between CBD and THC, and why those differences matter when developing products specifically for pets. Carter explains how CBD Dog Health approaches formulation, product development, and education, and how those efforts support pet parents, retailers, and veterinarians in making informed decisions.

Richmond and Carter also discuss the role these products can play for aging dogs, including considerations around mobility, cognitive changes, and overall quality of life, along with the science and research that inform those conversations.

This episode follows a previous Wag Pod conversation with Carter in Episode 23, which focused on MycoDog, the sister company to CBD Dog Health. Together, the two episodes offer separate perspectives on Carter’s work in education and natural wellness for pets.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Emily Slayton, creator of Dooker and mom of Guilty Reese, the internet-famous chocolate lab known for her signature mischievous grin. The conversation opens with how Reese’s expressions took off on TikTok and Instagram during the early days of social media, turning everyday mischief into viral moments that built a loyal following.

From there, Emily shares the origin story of Dooker, an idea that first came to her in 2019 during runs with Reese, when juggling a bag of dog waste became an all-too-familiar frustration. Years later, in 2024, that idea turned into action as Emily began the full design and manufacturing process, transforming a simple concept into a practical, intentionally designed dog bandana with a built-in, water-resistant zipper pouch that allows dogs to carry their own waste after pickup.

The episode dives into how Dooker was thoughtfully engineered using durable nylon, stretch gussets for flexibility, and an adjustable collar system that balances function, comfort, and style. Available in multiple sizes, the product was designed for runners, hikers, dog parents, and anyone who values convenience while still doing the right thing by cleaning up after their pet.

The conversation also explores entrepreneurship from idea to execution, including sketching product concepts by hand, navigating manufacturing, placing an initial bulk order, and building a brand from the ground up. Emily discusses the ideal customer for Dooker, mixed reactions on social media, and how she continues to respond and refine the brand over time.

This episode covers the full path from early inspiration to product execution, along with practical insights into entrepreneurship, audience engagement, and navigating public feedback while building a dog-focused brand.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Michelle Smith, Vice President of Fundraising and lifelong animal advocate whose work blends nonprofit strategy, creativity, and heart to drive real impact in animal welfare.

Michelle shares her journey from growing up deeply connected to animals to earning advanced degrees in business and nonprofit fundraising, and ultimately building a life dedicated to helping rescues succeed. While traveling full-time across the country with her husband, she began working with local shelters wherever she landed, teaching fundraising and marketing strategies that helped organizations raise more money and reach wider audiences.

The conversation explores Michelle’s role in the Community of Fashion Design Dog Association, an organization that uses dog fashion and creative events to make difficult rescue topics more approachable. Through initiatives like Puppy Prom, virtual fundraisers, and large-scale transport partnerships, CFDDA raises awareness and funding for rescue, special needs animals, spay and neuter efforts, and legislative challenges impacting shelters.

Michelle also shares the stories of her own dogs, Scarlett and Paisley, both special needs rescues whose experiences highlight the realities of adoption, long-term care, and advocacy. From cross-state transport efforts and influencer-led fundraising to educating communities through storytelling, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how passion paired with strategy can create meaningful, lasting change for animals.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works returns with Part Two of the conversation with Erin Murphy, aviator, author, and rescue dog advocate. If you missed Part One in Episode 37, that conversation covered Erin’s aviation journey, how she discovered rescue flying, and the story behind her first book. It sets the foundation for who she is and what inspires her work.

In this second half, the focus shifts to writing and the process behind Daring Dexter. Erin shares what she has learned about working with an illustrator, the differences between self publishing and hybrid publishing, and how her rescue work continues, inspiring new additions and updates to her books. The newest editions include updated illustrations featuring animals she has flown and Big Paw, the Pilots to the Rescue airplane.

Erin also talks about the growing community around her work. From being featured in Dog Mom Magazine to attending the Dog Mom Retreat, she reflects on the friendships, encouragement, and shared passion that comes from connecting with others who care about storytelling, dogs, and rescue. She continues to support and spotlight other authors, creators, and advocates doing meaningful work.

She also gives a preview of her next project, a young adult book following three young women with complex backgrounds who face various challenges as they grow up and try to find their path. Their shared interest in animal rescue and aviation becomes the spark that opens doors, builds confidence, and helps them explore who they want to become.

This episode closes the two part series with someone who approaches creativity, community, and rescue work with heart and purpose.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works introduces the first part of a two part series with Erin Mariah Murphy, a United Airlines pilot, dog advocate, and the award winning author behind Halfway Home. This opening chapter follows the early rise of her journey, beginning with childhood days in Scranton where air shows, F16 flyovers, and a love of animals shaped her goals. Those early sparks carried her to Daniel Webster Aviation School in New Hampshire, followed by years of flight instructing, corporate flying, regional routes, and ultimately international flights out of Newark. Her husband also flies for American Airlines, creating a life closely connected to aviation.

Throughout her flying career, dogs remained at the center of her world. Erin adopted her first dog, Jasmine, in high school, and later became deeply involved with the SPCA. She volunteered in every role available, from walking dogs to helping with photography, shelter skip days, and overnight stays. Over three years she fostered ten dogs, and one of them, a shy shelter pup named Homer, became Zeke and found a permanent place in her home.

When flying slowed during the pandemic, Erin turned to writing and began developing new ways to share the stories that tied aviation and rescue animals together. She enrolled in courses with Journey to Kid Lit and Gotham Writers, gaining the tools to build her first children’s book. What started as a lighthearted idea centered on Zeke soon grew into a project that reflected her passions for flying, storytelling, and animal advocacy.

Part One offers a warm introduction to Erin’s story and sets the foundation for the experiences that eventually led to the creation of Halfway Home.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Michael and Melissa O’Donnell of All-Star Dog Training, the family behind two of North Carolina’s most beloved sports dogs, Ripken and Champ. This story began with Ripken the Bat Dog, whose remarkable career made him a national figure. Ripken first fetched bats for the Holly Springs Salamanders before expanding his role to the Durham Bulls. He also retrieved tees for NC State football, appeared with the Savannah Bananas, took part in Carolina Panthers game-day activities, and had the honor of dropping the puck at the 2023 NHL Stadium Series. His presence left a lasting mark on sports fans and communities across the region.

In this episode, Michael and Melissa share the story of how Ripken became such an iconic part of North Carolina sports culture while also earning national recognition, what his journey meant to their family and community, and how Champ the Retriever has stepped into his big brother’s footsteps with heart and enthusiasm. Today, Champ the Retriever proudly carries on that legacy in his own way. He has already made memorable appearances delivering bats with the Durham Bulls, participating in NC State Football moments, and taking part in a ceremonial puck drop with NC State Hockey. With each new experience, Champ continues to honor Ripken’s legacy while building an identity all his own.

All-Star Dog Training, with locations in Apex and Charlotte, has grown alongside these incredible experiences. The O’Donnell team focuses on evidence-based, balanced training that helps dogs become calm, confident, and well-mannered companions. Their approach emphasizes owner involvement, structured lessons, personalized training plans, and continued support long after programs end. From puppies to advanced obedience to dogs working through behavioral challenges, their goal is to make training positive, effective, and accessible for families.

This heartfelt conversation highlights the legacy of Ripken, Champ’s journey, and the purpose-driven work behind All-Star Dog Training. Episode 36 offers a warm look at how dedication, community, and genuine love for dogs can create unforgettable moments on and off the field.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Willie Blue of The Dabba Company in this week’s episode. Willie founded The Dabba Company in 2018 after spending many years working within veterinary settings, where he recognized a real need for accessible canine fitness and injury-recovery support. After earning his CCFT certification through the University of Tennessee, he began offering mobile rehabilitation and fitness services built around convenience, comfort, and individualized care. Over time, his work expanded to include a dedicated brick-and-mortar location as well, giving clients the option of both in-home support and a fully equipped fitness space.

Today, Willie continues to grow The Dabba Company through custom fitness plans, pre and post surgical guidance, rehabilitation sessions, nutrition support, and education such as pet CPR and first-aid classes. His approach centers on meeting dogs exactly where they are, whether through his mobile gym or his physical facility, and creating fitness programs built around each pet’s needs, age, and abilities. Alongside his day-to-day work, Willie is also in the process of designing a new product aimed at improving canine recovery and fitness, furthering his mission to make health and mobility accessible to every dog.

In this episode, listeners will hear how Willie’s experience working in veterinary environments shaped the creation of The Dabba Company, what inspired his mobile-plus-studio model, and how intentional fitness and rehabilitation can transform a dog’s quality of life. It’s an inspiring look at the passion, innovation, and dedication behind a business committed to helping pets stay strong, confident, and healthy.

Richmond Griner of Wag Works chats with Melissa Cohan, founder of The Healthy Mutt, a holistic pet health practice dedicated to helping dogs thrive through nutrition, enrichment, and overall wellness. Melissa’s love for animals began in childhood, but her path into pet health deepened through caring for her own dogs with complex medical needs—experiences that led her to explore natural nutrition, supportive therapies, and a whole-dog approach to long-term health.

Today, Melissa works full time in IT while also serving as a Certified Holistic Pet Health Coach and Professional Canine Nutritionist, offering personalized consultations, coaching packages, and community workshops. Her work focuses on helping pet owners make intentional, informed choices that support the physical and emotional well-being of their companions.

In this episode, we talk about how Melissa balances a full-time job while growing The Healthy Mutt, the role of nutrition in disease prevention, how enrichment shapes behavior and mental health, and why early, proactive care can change a dog’s entire journey. It’s an honest, uplifting conversation rooted in love, learning, and doing right by our dogs.