Juliana DeWillems: Finding Fulfillment and Avoiding Burnout in Dog Training [Episode 256]

In this episode of the Animal Training Academy podcast, we are honoured to welcome back Chirag Patel - an internationally acclaimed behaviour and training consultant whose innovative work spans species, continents, and disciplines. Chirag is perhaps best known for creating the Bucket Game and for his deep commitment to ethical, science-based, cooperative care. During this rich and thoughtful conversation, Chirag and host Ryan Cartlidge explore the origin story of the Bucket Game, the pivotal influence of Susan Friedman and other mentors, and the process of bringing empowerment and agency to animals through training. Chirag offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the reflective practices that fuel his creativity and the radical behavioural lens through which he navigates the world. Listeners are treated to discussions on maintaining innovation across a long career, embracing the individuality of each learner (human and non-human alike), the role of functional assessments in behavioural design, and the deeply personal journey of adopting behaviour analysis as a worldview. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: 🪣 How a Target store and a German Shepherd helped spark the Bucket Game. 🪣 The lasting impact of Susan Friedman’s work on Chirag’s thinking and teaching. 🪣 Strategies for staying innovative without losing touch with foundational science. 🪣 The behavioural analytic process behind self-reflection and online feedback. 🪣 Chirag’s take on spirituality, radical acceptance, and applying ABA to everyday life. Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Whether you’ve long admired Chirag Patel’s work or are encountering his ideas for the first time, this episode offers an unfiltered glimpse into the mindset of a behaviour professional who walks his talk. From deep philosophical insights to practical training gems, this is an episode you’ll want to revisit time and again. Engage With Us: Subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with fellow behaviour nerds, and join our global community at www.atamember.com as we continue to elevate our craft with compassion, curiosity, and science. Links: https://www.instagram.com/chiragpatelconsulting/ https://www.chiragpatelconsulting.com/welcome https://www.facebook.com/chiragpatelconsulting/ 

In this first installment of a two-part conversation, we welcome Juliana DeWillems - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Karen Pryor Academy faculty member, and founder of JW Dog Training - for a deeply honest and empowering discussion. Juliana shares her unique journey into the world of animal training - from event planning at a humane society to discovering her calling through fostering rambunctious adolescent dogs. Unlike many, Juliana entered the field without first navigating aversive methods, drawn instinctively to positive reinforcement by both curiosity and compassion. We also explore: ✅ What burnout looked and felt like for Juliana as a business owner and trainer ✅ How she reshaped her career (and life) to align with her strengths and values ✅ The emotional realities of working in a helping profession ✅ Why therapy, self-awareness, and redefining success are critical tools for sustainability ✅ The possibilities—and pitfalls—of building a digitally-based animal training business Juliana’s insights will resonate with anyone who’s ever questioned their capacity to “do it all,” and her vulnerability provides a roadmap for building a career with more intention, peace, and joy. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the field, this episode offers inspiration, validation, and hope for a thriving future. Links https://www.instagram.com/jwdogtraining/ https://www.facebook.com/jwdogtrainingandbehavior/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jwdogtraining   https://www.jwdogtraining.com/ https://www.jwdogtraining.com/training-app

In this continuation of our two-part series, Tom Candy returns to the Animal Training Academy Podcast to dive even deeper into the complex, emotional, and incredibly impactful world of shelter and rescue behavior work. As a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviorist and founder of Simplifying Shelter Behaviour, Tom brings over 15 years of experience in the field and a relentless commitment to improving animal welfare. In this episode, Tom opens up about the human side of behavior work in shelter settings—discussing the emotional toll, the importance of support systems, and the nuanced decisions behavior professionals must make every day. With heart, humor, and humility, he shares insights into: ✅ Navigating the mental load and moral dilemmas of behavior work in rescue environments ✅ The significance of peer support and reflective practice to combat compassion fatigue ✅ How to balance behavioral outcomes with the best welfare options for animals and their caregivers ✅ Empowering shelter staff and volunteers with practical, positive-based solutions ✅ Why clear communication and small wins can create powerful ripples of change This episode is a must-listen for anyone working in or alongside rescue and shelter organizations. Whether you’re a trainer, behavior consultant, volunteer, or advocate, Tom’s grounded perspective and lived experience will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to do more of the good work—without burning out. Links https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ea6VTImAPcnlXilJYunij?si=9494adef3f064d14 https://simplifyingshelterbehaviour.com/ https://educanine.org/2025-conference?fbclid=IwY2xjawKHUYJleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETA5Y3ZLaDQ0eDFYdHUyRHBNAR4dLvacTszLMncdW44_WmU-oeObn6FsRO7wApjPdj_HZvsTnOCB34Xqf6xsqg_aem_b3aPz3fSwo7LroNisEnxzw

In this first installment of a two-part conversation,, we welcome Tom Candy—Certified Clinical Animal Behaviorist and founder of Simplifying Shelter Behaviour—for an engaging discussion that dives deep into the realities, challenges, and opportunities within the world of shelter and rescue animal care. With over 15 years of experience in the field, Tom shares practical wisdom drawn from his work across the UK’s largest dog welfare organization and his efforts to elevate animal welfare and training standards in shelters. His perspective blends hands-on experience, academic rigor, and a deep passion for improving the lives of both animals and the humans who care for them. Throughout this episode, we explore: ✅ Common myths and misconceptions around “rescue behavior problems” ✅ How training and behavior programs can be realistically integrated into shelter environments ✅ The value of consistency, environmental management, and caregiver education ✅ Why language and communication matter when discussing animal behavior in shelter settings ✅ The importance of data collection, reflective practice, and organizational buy-in for sustainable change Tom’s grounded, compassionate approach provides a refreshing look at behavior modification within the shelter context—emphasizing empowerment over blame, collaboration over quick fixes, and science over assumption. Whether you're a trainer, behavior consultant, volunteer, or shelter staff member, this conversation offers inspiration and actionable takeaways to help improve outcomes for animals in your care. Links https://open.spotify.com/show/1Ea6VTImAPcnlXilJYunij?si=9494adef3f064d14 https://simplifyingshelterbehaviour.com/ https://educanine.org/2025-conference?fbclid=IwY2xjawKHUYJleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETA5Y3ZLaDQ0eDFYdHUyRHBNAR4dLvacTszLMncdW44_WmU-oeObn6FsRO7wApjPdj_HZvsTnOCB34Xqf6xsqg_aem_b3aPz3fSwo7LroNisEnxzw  

Podcast Synopsis In this insightful episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, Dr. Keira Moore returns for part two of our thought-provoking discussion on behavior analysis, radical behaviorism, and the intersection of science and practice in both human and animal training. With her extensive background as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) and KPA-CTP certified dog trainer, Keira shares her expertise on how we can stay conceptually systematic, follow the science, and ask the right questions to refine our training approaches. Throughout this episode, we dive into five key strategies for grounding training in behavioral science, including: ✅ Understanding radical behaviorism and why it’s a game-changer for ethical training ✅ The importance of following the science and identifying credible sources of knowledge ✅ Why being conceptually systematic can help trainers avoid unnecessary fluff in their methods ✅ Asking critical questions to distinguish evidence-based practices from trendy but unproven techniques ✅ The power of community and lifelong learning to enhance training effectiveness Keira’s approach is both practical and thought-provoking, offering valuable takeaways for dog trainers, behavior consultants, and animal caregivers alike. Whether you’re new to behavior analysis or a seasoned professional, this conversation will challenge the way you think about training and empower you to make more informed, science-based decisions. 🔗 Want to connect with Keira? Check out the following links: Pet Project Website: https://linktr.ee/petprojectdogtraining Moore Behavior Consulting Website: https://moorebehaviorconsulting.com/ Pet Project Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petprojectdogtraining Pet Project Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCul0qh41LvTTroVZqqH-Qzw

In this first installment of a two-part conversation, we welcome Dr. Keira Moore—behavior analyst, dog trainer, and dedicated advocate for compassionate, ethical training. With over two decades of experience in behavior analysis and a PhD from Western New England University, Keira bridges the worlds of human and animal behavior science, applying her expertise to both dog training and consulting on anxiety and sleep-related challenges. Keira takes us on a fascinating journey through her career, from her early love of animals and behavioral psychology studies to working with children on the autism spectrum and ultimately finding her passion in dog training. Along the way, she shares how her introduction to clicker training (involving an unexpected feline trainee!) shaped her approach to behavior modification. We also explore the core principles of radical behaviorism and how they apply across species—from humans to dogs and beyond. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: 🐾 Keira’s unique career path from human behavior analysis to professional dog training. 🐾 How radical behaviorism shapes our understanding of learning across species. 🐾 The power of reinforcement in behavior modification—whether working with children, dogs, or even cats! 🐾 Insights into Keira’s work addressing anxiety, reactivity, and severe behavior challenges. 🐾 The science behind behavior change and how trainers can apply these principles effectively. Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Keira’s extensive expertise, combined with her engaging storytelling, makes this episode a must-hear for trainers, behaviorists, and anyone fascinated by the science of learning. Whether you're new to applied behavior analysis or a seasoned trainer looking to deepen your knowledge, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Join the Conversation: Subscribe, share, and connect with us to explore evidence-based, ethical approaches to training. And stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive even deeper into the application of behavior analysis in animal training! Links: Pet Project Website: https://linktr.ee/petprojectdogtraining Moore Behavior Consulting Website: https://moorebehaviorconsulting.com/ Pet Project Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petprojectdogtraining Pet Project Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCul0qh41LvTTroVZqqH-Qzw  

In this episode of the Animal Training Academy podcast, we are thrilled to welcome Peggy Hogan, an esteemed positive reinforcement trainer known for her groundbreaking work with horses. Peggy’s journey into animal training began at a young age, fueled by a deep love for horses and a natural curiosity about communication between humans and animals. Over the years, she explored various training methodologies before fully embracing clicker training—an approach that prioritizes choice, consent, and clear communication. Throughout this engaging conversation, Peggy shares her evolution from traditional training techniques to a force-free, consent-based approach that empowers horses to actively participate in their learning. She delves into the importance of shaping, capturing, luring, and targeting—techniques that allow horses to offer behaviors willingly, without pressure. We also explore her work with miniature horses, the development of start buttons and consent signals, and how positive reinforcement is transforming the equestrian world. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: 🐎 Peggy’s early experiences with both horses and dogs and how they shaped her training philosophy. 🐎 The transition from Natural Horsemanship to clicker training and why she made the switch. 🐎 How shaping, capturing, and targeting create more engaged and willing equine learners. 🐎 The power of consent-based training, including start buttons and requested behaviors. 🐎 Real-life examples of how positive reinforcement has helped rescue horses and improved their welfare. Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Peggy’s passion, expertise, and innovative approach to training offer valuable insights for anyone working with horses—or any species—who wants to build a relationship based on trust, choice, and communication. Whether you’re an experienced trainer or just beginning your journey with positive reinforcement, this conversation is filled with inspiring takeaways. Engage With Us: Subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with fellow trainers and equine enthusiasts, and join our growing community as we continue to explore science-based, ethical training practices. Links: Peggy's website: https://www.clickertraininghorses.com/ Peggy's online coaching: https://clickertraininghorses.com/store/index.php?route=product/category&path=59 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ClickerTrainingHorses/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clickertraininghorses/ The Git Up R+ Challenge: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKrLsOHnEeg  ATA 30 day $1 trial membership >>> https://atamember.com/thirty-day-trial/  

Podcast Synopsis In this milestone episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, host Ryan Cartlidge is joined once again by the incredible Dr. Susan G. Friedman—a leading expert in behavioral science and animal training. A returning guest every 50th episode, Susan brings her extensive knowledge and decades of experience to discuss the evolving role of negative reinforcement in ethical training, recognizing subtle "no" signals from animals, and the power of behavioral science to create more informed trainers. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of: ✅ The importance of teaching animals to say "no" and trainers to honor it ✅ The ethical application of negative reinforcement in animal training ✅ Sub-threshold training techniques to reduce stress and improve communication ✅ The impact of non-linear contingency analysis in understanding complex behaviors ✅ Why positive reinforcement training has been so successful—and the next frontier of voluntary medical procedures This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about progressive, evidence-based training methods. Whether you're an animal trainer, behavior consultant, or just fascinated by the science of learning, Dr. Friedman's insights will challenge your thinking and push the boundaries of what's possible in ethical animal training. 🔗 Want to learn more? Be sure to check out Dr. Friedman’s resources at www.behaviorworks.org and explore the wealth of courses available through her work.

In part two of our engaging conversation with Sarah Fisher, renowned canine and equine behavior advisor and co-founder of Animal Centred Education (ACE), we dive even deeper into the transformative power of ACE Free Work. Sarah shares extraordinary insights from her decades of experience, explaining how detailed observations, movement analysis, and sensory experiences can add immense value to the way we understand and support our dogs. Sarah recounts pivotal moments that shaped the evolution of Free Work, including how dogs like Oscar, Cookie Dough, and Henry played a crucial role in its development. We explore how subtle body cues, posture shifts, and movement patterns reveal hidden discomfort and help us predict the emotional states of our dogs - insights that can be life-changing for trainers, caregivers, and behavior professionals alike. Sarah also shares compelling real-world case studies, demonstrating how Free Work has helped dogs navigate stress, build confidence, and reshape heavily reinforced behaviors. From its impact on pain assessment to its role in helping dogs self-regulate, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge that will challenge the way you perceive canine learning and communication. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: 🐾 How Free Work allows dogs to become the pilot of their own learning 🐾 The connection between movement, body posture, and emotional well-being 🐾 How pain and discomfort can manifest in subtle but crucial ways 🐾 The impact of sensory engagement on canine relaxation and behavior change 🐾 Why ACE Free Work is a powerful tool for both dogs and their caregivers Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Sarah’s expertise and passion shine through in this fascinating discussion, providing trainers, caregivers, and behavior professionals with invaluable tools to observe, listen, and improve their understand of their dogs. If you’ve ever wondered how to create an enriching and supportive environment for your canine learners, this episode is a must-hear! 📢 Join the Conversation: Subscribe, share this episode, and join our ATA community as we continue to explore science-based, ethical approaches to animal training! LINKS; Tilly Farm Website ACE [Animal Centered Education]

In part one of this compelling two-part episode of the Animal Training Academy podcast, we are honored to welcome Sarah Fisher, a renowned canine and equine behavior advisor, educator, and co-founder of Animal Centred Education (ACE). With nearly 30 years of experience working with animals, Sarah has dedicated her career to helping trainers, caregivers, and behavior professionals develop a deeper understanding of their animal learners. In this first part of our conversation, Sarah takes us on a heartfelt journey through her formative years and the pivotal moments that shaped her approach to animal training. She shares insights into how childhood experiences, personal loss, and human therapeutic studies influenced her philosophy on animal welfare, behavior, and communication. We also explore the foundation of ACE, the power of Free Work, and the importance of allowing dogs to pilot their own learning experiences. What You’ll Discover in This Episode: 🐾 Sarah’s early experiences with animals and the lessons she learned from her upbringing. 🐾 The emotional and behavioral connections between animals and humans. 🐾 How human bodywork and therapeutic studies shaped Sarah’s approach to working with animals. 🐾 The story behind Tilly Farm and how it became a hub for ACE education. 🐾 The principles of ACE Free Work and why it’s transforming the lives of dogs and their caregivers. Why This Episode is a Must-Listen: Sarah’s deeply personal journey, combined with her expertise in behavior and animal welfare, offers invaluable insights for trainers, behaviorists, and anyone passionate about improving the well-being of animals. Engage With Us: Subscribe to the podcast, share this episode with fellow trainers and animal enthusiasts, and join our vibrant community to explore science-based, ethical training approaches. LINKS; Tilly Farm Website ACE [Animal Centered Education]