Finding Your Flow: Artistry in Dog Training with Steve Goodall [Episode 278]

In this candid and soulful exploration of the trainer's journey, Ryan Cartlidge sits down with Steve Goodall — a director of Packed Dogs Limited , an ABTC registered animal training instructor , and a published author based in a small hamlet in Wales . Steve offers a refreshing look at the "why" behind our interactions with animals, drawing on his eclectic background in the DIY punk music scene and sound engineering to highlight the delicate balance between technical protocols and creative intuition . From his early days as a postman to leading a nationally recognized training organization, Steve's story is a testament to how welfare-first, science-based methods can transform both ends of the leash . Together, Ryan and Steve dive into the concept of prosody and how our vocalizations and body language serve as a primary bridge for cross-species communication . Steve shares the moving story of his first rescue dog, Rocco, and the sudden tragedy that served as a "baptism of fire," propelling him into a career dedicated to fostering happy, healthy homes through emotional connection . They also discuss the importance of professional self-awareness, encouraging listeners to identify whether they are "systems-led operators" or "creative sparks" to build a more sustainable and fulfilling career . Throughout this episode, we discuss: Steve's "Behavior Odyssey": A windy path from touring in punk bands to discovering the "magic" of clicker training and targeting with a Pringle's lid . The Art vs. Science Intersection: Why the most effective training happens when mechanics and protocols dance with instinctual creativity . Vocal Prosody: Exploring how the pitch, rhythm, and tone of the human voice can instinctively calm or excite an animal . Strengths-Based Training: The value of investigating your natural skills and investing time in playing to those strengths rather than fighting weaknesses . The Power of Patterns: What Steve has learned from watching hundreds of homework submissions and the specific movements that signal a "flow state" . Collaboration Over Competition: How the four directors at PACT leverage their diverse skills—from spreadsheets to storytelling—to move the industry forward . Embracing Playfulness: Moving from "learning the scales" to being proficient enough to play with the rules for better results . Whether you are looking to refine your coaching skills or searching for inspiration after a personal setback, Steve's perspective provides a roadmap for staying curious, staying kind, and finding the rhythm in your training. Links PACT https://www.pact-dogs.com/  ABTC https://abtc.org.uk/  Steve's blog https://www.goodalldogtraining.com/blog 

In this thoughtful and practical conversation, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by Natalie Light — canine behaviourist, trainer, and director at PACT Dogs Ltd (Professional Association of Canine Trainers) in the UK. With a background that blends hands-on behaviour work, professional education, and a strong commitment to raising standards within the industry, Natalie brings a refreshingly grounded perspective to one of the most important (and often misunderstood) topics in dog training: what "good training" really looks like when we centre welfare, ethics, and long-term outcomes. Together, Ryan and Natalie explore the role of professional standards in the dog training world, and why clarity matters — not just for trainers, but for the dogs and guardians we support. Natalie shares insights into her work within the UK's developing professional landscape, including the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) framework, the purpose of assessed membership, and how professional bodies can create pathways that protect both animals and the public without falling into gatekeeping or division. The conversation also dives into the emotional realities of being a trainer in today's climate — where misinformation spreads quickly, social media fuels polarisation, and many professionals feel pressure to "perform" expertise rather than practise thoughtfully. Natalie speaks candidly about the importance of humility, ongoing learning, and community support, and how building a sustainable career often requires stepping away from perfectionism and toward collaboration, reflection, and clear ethical anchors. Throughout this episode, we discuss: ✅ Natalie's work through PACT Dogs Ltd and her commitment to professional development ✅ What the ABTC framework is — and how it supports role clarity and public protection ✅ Why professional standards matter for welfare, ethics, and credibility in dog training ✅ The difference between regulation, voluntary frameworks, and professional accountability ✅ How trainers can navigate polarisation, misinformation, and social media pressure ✅ Why sustainable careers are built through learning, community, and values — not perfection Whether you're a trainer looking to strengthen your professional identity, a behaviour professional navigating the complexities of modern dog training culture, or someone simply curious about what ethical standards could look like in our industry, this episode is a powerful reminder that raising the bar doesn't have to mean shutting people out — it can mean building something better, together. Links PACT Dogs Ltd (Professional Association of Canine Trainers) — https://www.pact-dogs.com/ Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) — https://abtc.org.uk/

In this perspective-shifting conversation, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by Jason Light — director at PACT Dogs Limited in the UK, sustainability consultant through Green Robin Consulting, and a chartered environmentalist with over 20 years of senior leadership experience, including serving as Head of Sustainability for an NHS Foundation Trust. Bringing a rare strategic lens to the animal training profession, Jason challenges us to think about "sustainability" as something far bigger than environmental impact alone — and instead, as the foundation for building ethical, resilient, welfare-first careers that actually last. Together, Ryan and Jason explore what it means to create truly sustainable dog training businesses and professional communities, including financial resilience, mental wellbeing, and long-term professional longevity. Jason shares how his work through PACT (the Professional Association of Canine Trainers) and the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) is helping raise professional standards in the UK through assessed membership, structured training pathways, and clear role-based benchmarks — while still encouraging collaboration over competition across the wider industry. The conversation also highlights the hidden risks that can quietly derail even the most passionate professionals, including burnout, compassion fatigue, and imposter syndrome. Jason offers practical reflections on how values-driven business design, community support, and clear "off ramps" can help trainers avoid feeling cornered — and instead create careers that feel both sustainable and safe. Ryan also shares why this conversation matters deeply to Animal Training Academy's own values and future collaborations, and the episode closes with a heartfelt dedication to Sarah Fisher and the legacy of kindness she left within the industry. Throughout this episode, we discuss: ✅ What "sustainability" really means for dog trainers — beyond just environmental concerns ✅ How to build a business that supports financial resilience, wellbeing, and professional longevity ✅ Jason's work through PACT Dogs and Green Robin Consulting ✅ How the ABTC is shaping professional standards, assessment frameworks, and voluntary regulation in the UK ✅ Why collaboration matters more than competition — and how professional communities can support trainers to thrive ✅ Burnout, compassion fatigue, and imposter syndrome as sustainability risks in our profession ✅ The importance of values, identity, and planning for the long term (including having "off ramps") Whether you're a trainer running a business, working inside a larger organisation, or simply looking for ways to stay in this profession without burning out, this episode offers a refreshing and empowering roadmap for creating a career that's ethical, resilient, and built to last. Links PACT (Professional Association of Canine Trainers) https://www.pact-dogs.com/  Green Robin Consulting https://thegreenrobin.com/ ABTC (Animal Behaviour and Training Council) https://abtc.org.uk/ 

In this thoughtful and business-boosting conversation, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by returning guest Veronica Boutelle — founder of Dogbiz, author of How to Run a Dog Business, and a long-time leader in helping positive reinforcement dog trainers build sustainable, values-aligned businesses. With a rare blend of experience as a professional dog trainer, business owner, and former classroom teacher, teacher educator, and curriculum developer, Veronica brings a grounded, practical lens to the "softer skills" that can make or break a trainer's confidence, visibility, and long-term success. Together, Ryan and Veronica unpack two of the most common struggles trainers face behind the scenes: imposter syndrome and isolation. Veronica explores how these experiences often show up as fear — fear of not knowing enough, fear of being judged by peers, fear of rejection from potential clients, and fear of "getting it wrong" and causing harm. They also discuss how the lack of shared professional standards in the dog training industry can intensify doubt, and why community and belonging matter so deeply for staying resilient and moving forward. Throughout the episode, Veronica reframes confidence not as the absence of fear, but as the willingness to take action anyway — building systems, developing skills, and learning through experience. From risk-taking as experimentation, to treating business decisions like training data, this conversation is packed with perspective shifts that will help you stop waiting for "ready" and start moving toward the business (and impact) you truly want. Throughout this episode, we discuss: ✅ Why imposter syndrome and isolation are so common in the positive reinforcement dog training world ✅ How fear fuels inaction — and why confidence is often simply "doing anyway" ✅ The role of belonging, validation, and status in how we show up publicly as professionals ✅ Why risk is unavoidable in business (and how to reframe it as experimentation) ✅ How community support changes everything — for both wins and setbacks Whether you're a new trainer trying to find your footing or an experienced professional wrestling with visibility, pricing, or self-doubt, this episode is a powerful reminder that confidence isn't something you wait for — it's something you build through action, reflection, and connection. Links Veronica's Thrive program: http://dogbizsuccess.com/thrive/    

In this episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, host Ryan Cartlidge is joined by returning guest Michael Shikashio for a wide-ranging conversation about professionalism, community, and the future of the dog training industry. Michael Shikashio is the founder of AggressiveDog.com, a leading expert in working with aggression cases, a five-time past President of the IAABC, the 2020 APTT Member of the Year, and host of The Bitey End of the Dog podcast. Drawing on decades of experience supporting trainers across more than 20 countries, Michael brings a global, grounded perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing the profession today. Together, Ryan and Michael explore the vision behind the Canis Conference - a bold new event designed to bring trainers, behavior consultants, veterinarians, shelter professionals, scientists, and dog sports enthusiasts together under one roof. Michael shares how Canis was born from a desire to dismantle silos, reduce divisiveness, and create a space where learning, collaboration, and respectful dialogue can flourish across differing backgrounds and methodologies. The conversation moves well beyond conference planning, diving into the emotional and professional toll of online conflict, social media algorithms, and the rise of polarized "team" identities within the dog training world. Michael speaks candidly about criticism, controversy, and resilience, offering powerful insights for both emerging and established professionals navigating public discourse, online platforms, and ethical responsibility. Throughout the episode, the emphasis remains on compassion, professionalism, and the importance of face-to-face connection in restoring trust - both within the industry and with the public we serve. In this episode, we discuss: The vision and structure of the Canis Conference and its festival-style, multi-disciplinary approach Why safety, inclusion, and professionalism matter more than ever in the dog training industry The impact of social media algorithms on conflict, identity, and professional behavior Navigating criticism, controversy, and online hostility with integrity and resilience Moving beyond divisive labels to find shared values and common ground The power of in-person connection to rebuild trust, empathy, and collaboration Whether you are a new trainer finding your voice, a seasoned professional reflecting on your role in the wider community, or someone longing for a more respectful and united industry, this episode offers clarity, courage, and a hopeful vision for where we go next - together. Links Canis Conference: canisconference.com Michael Shikashio: AggressiveDog.com

In this insightful and future-focused episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by two pioneers in applied behavior analysis and professional animal education: Dr. Susan Friedman and Rick Hester, as they introduce and explore their newest collaborative project, Zoo School. Dr. Susan Friedman brings decades of experience as a psychology professor, behavior analyst, and internationally respected educator whose work has profoundly shaped humane, evidence-based animal training across species. Rick Hester joins the conversation as a seasoned zoo professional, educator, and mentor whose career spans animal care, staff development, and leadership within zoological institutions. Together, Susan and Rick share how their complementary backgrounds converged to create Zoo School - a learning platform designed to elevate animal care through science, ethics, and effective teaching. Throughout the conversation, Susan and Rick reflect on the gaps they've observed in traditional animal-care education, particularly the need for deeper fluency in learning theory, behavior analysis, and instructional design. They discuss how Zoo School was built to support zoo and aquarium professionals not just in what to do, but in how to think - developing critical skills in observation, decision-making, and compassionate problem solving. Ryan, Susan, and Rick dive into the philosophy underpinning Zoo School, including the importance of clarity, kindness, and accountability in professional practice. They explore how well-designed education can improve animal welfare, empower caregivers, and foster healthier organizational cultures. Central to the discussion is the idea that behavior doesn't exist in isolation - it is shaped by environments, systems, and the contingencies we design for both animals and humans. Listeners will also hear candid reflections on mentorship, lifelong learning, and the responsibility educators carry when shaping the next generation of professionals. Susan and Rick share what excites them most about Zoo School's future, how it differs from conventional training programs, and why now is the right time for this kind of learning space to exist. This episode is a thoughtful invitation to rethink professional development in animal care - and a compelling reminder that when education is grounded in science, empathy, and intentional design, it has the power to create meaningful, lasting change for animals and the people who care for them. Links https://bwzs.org/ 

In this reflective and values-driven episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, ATA team members Ryan Cartlidge, Shelly Wood, and Belinda Young come together for a thoughtful discussion on gratitude - one of Animal Training Academy's core values - and the meaningful role it plays in learning, community, and wellbeing. Drawing from personal experience and professional practice, Ryan, Shelly, and Belinda explore how intentional gratitude shapes ATA's culture and supports safer, more compassionate spaces for human learners. From early-morning thought loops and professional challenges to gratitude journals, team rituals, and community moderation, the conversation reframes gratitude not as "toxic positivity," but as a genuine, practiced skill that can be learned, strengthened, and modeled. Throughout the episode, the discussion explores: Why gratitude was intentionally chosen as a core value of Animal Training Academy Gratitude as a learnable skill that builds resilience, self-compassion, and emotional flexibility Parallels between effective animal training and supporting human learners How gratitude supports bravery, vulnerability, and risk-taking in learning environments The ripple effects of modeling gratitude within ATA and beyond Why psychologically safe communities are essential for growth, feedback, and lifelong learning This episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to practice gratitude with authenticity. It highlights how values-led reinforcement can transform not only how we train animals, but how we support people, nurture community, and show up for one another - reminding us that when courage, curiosity, and kindness are intentionally reinforced, the ripples travel far beyond the moment.

In the second part of our conversation with Ryan Talbot, Behavioral Enrichment and Training Manager at Wolf Park, we continue exploring how behavior science, engineering, and thoughtful creativity come together in Ryan's work with wolves and wolf dogs. Ryan shares how small, systematic changes can create meaningful shifts in cooperative care, and how approaching husbandry through a constructional, stepwise lens helps both animals and humans experience more clarity and choice. Ryan and host Ryan Cartlidge dig into the practical realities of teaching complex behaviors to apex species. They discuss shaping, splitting, and transferring control, as well as how long-term plans can be built from simple, repeatable loops. Ryan also reflects on what he has learned from working with individual animals over many years, including how emotional safety guides the pace of training and how social dynamics influence husbandry outcomes. Throughout the episode, Ryan highlights the importance of curiosity, experimentation, and community. From building prototype tools to inviting colleagues into problem-solving conversations, he shares how collaborative thinking makes training more effective and more humane. His insights offer a thoughtful reminder that progress is not about perfection, but about paying attention to what an animal communicates and adjusting with care. Throughout this episode, we explore: ✅ How a constructional approach supports clarity and confidence in cooperative care ✅ The role of shaping and splitting in teaching complex husbandry behaviors ✅ How wolf and wolf dog social dynamics influence training plans and outcomes ✅ Why emotional safety determines the appropriate pace of progression ✅ The value of experimentation, prototyping, and creative problem solving ✅ Long-term behavior planning and building repeatable learning loops ✅ How collaboration within a training team leads to better welfare and better results This concluding conversation with Ryan offers practical insights, reflective moments, and a look into how science, creativity, and compassion shape meaningful work with apex species. Links https://wolfpark.org/ https://www.facebook.com/wolfparkindiana https://www.instagram.com/wolfparkindiana/ Links to  papers referred to during conversation: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40617-023-00890-1 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40617-023-00850-9  

In this first part of our conversation with Ryan Talbot, Behavioral Enrichment and Training Manager at Wolf Park, we dive into the winding and thoughtful path that brought him from computer engineering into the world of applied behavior analysis and cooperative care. Ryan shares how a formative visit to Wolf Park opened his eyes to the power of relationships built through understanding another being's umwelt, setting him on a path of lifelong learning in behavior science. Across the episode, Ryan reflects on how engineering thinking and behavior analysis intersect in his work. He discusses debugging software versus analyzing behavior, the parallels between instrumentation and communication, and how these concepts helped shape his approach to training wolves with clarity and compassion. Ryan also describes the early cooperative care efforts at Wolf Park, from reducing reliance on human wolf bonds to developing voluntary, transferable husbandry behaviors with the help of colleagues and mentors. Together, Ryan and host Ryan Cartlidge explore themes of motivation, imposter syndrome, community, and what it means to contribute to a field from an unconventional starting point. From building wooden target blocks to prototyping touchscreen devices for wolves, Ryan shares how creativity, curiosity, and open source values influence both his training and his desire to help others learn and grow alongside their animals. Throughout this episode, we explore: ✅ The moment at Wolf Park that sparked Ryan's interest in behavior and umwelt ✅ How engineering concepts like debugging and instrumentation map onto behavior analysis ✅ The evolution of cooperative care training with wolves and wolf dogs at Wolf Park ✅ Why Ryan sees behavior as a physical science governed by predictable laws ✅ The influence of mentors and colleagues throughout his learning journey ✅ Thoughts on imposter syndrome, industry identity, and finding one's place in the training community ✅ Open source values, tinkering, and creative tools that support clearer communication with learners This conversation offers a fascinating look at how diverse backgrounds enrich our field, and how curiosity and compassion can shape meaningful work with animals. Links https://wolfpark.org/ https://www.facebook.com/wolfparkindiana https://www.instagram.com/wolfparkindiana/ Links papers referred to during conversation: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40617-023-00890-1 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40617-023-00850-9  

In this candid and practical conclusion to their two-part conversation, Ryan Cartlidge and Sara Brueske shift from the training field to the front office to discuss the business of animal training. Sara shares an "in the trenches" look at her journey into facility ownership and the evolution of her business, Happy Dog Lodge. The conversation centers on a service model often debated within the positive reinforcement community: Board and Train. Sara offers a transparent look at the ethics, logistics, and communication strategies required to offer this service in a way that prioritises client education, successful skill transfer, and the wellbeing of the dog. Beyond the specific service, Ryan and Sara discuss the broader challenges of entrepreneurship, from the weight of managing a team to the art of marketing to both clients and professional peers. Sara's insights provide a valuable roadmap for any trainer navigating the complexities of making their passion a sustainable profession. Throughout this episode, we explore: ✅ The shift from solo sport trainer to facility owner and team leader ✅ A deep dive into the Board and Train model from a positive reinforcement perspective ✅ Strategies for ensuring successful training transfer from trainer to client ✅ The vital difference between marketing to your clients and marketing to your peers ✅ The real-world challenges and ethical considerations of running a training business ✅ How to build a service that meets market demand while upholding your training philosophy Part two is a must-listen for any training professional, offering an honest look at the sometimes uncomfortable but crucial business side of what we do and how to do it with integrity and foresight. Links Happy Dog Lodge - Boarding, Training, Grooming in Cambridge, MN www.happydoglodge.com Fenzi Dog Sports Academy www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com Facebook page: www.facebook.com/brueskesara