From Stray to Sage: Aloka’s Journey of Stillness and Strength

From the bustling lanes of India to the serene monasteries of the Himalayas and beyond, Aloka — a once-homeless Indian pariah dog — found his calling beside a group of Buddhist monks on a remarkable pilgrimage. Walking thousands of kilometres across continents, Aloka became more than a travel companion; he turned into a living lesson in resilience, mindfulness, and unconditional peace.This episode traces his incredible transformation from street survivor to global peace ambassador — challenging stereotypes about Indie breeds while revealing their unmatched emotional depth and strength. Through Aloka’s story, we explore how one dog’s quiet devotion and spiritual presence can remind us of our shared capacity for compassion, endurance, and inner stillness.

In this episode, we explore how pets help slow cognitive decline in older adults. From fetch routines to fur therapy, our hosts sniff out why living with a pet keeps human brains sharp, hearts full, and spirits high. Scientific research spanning over decades proves that your cat and dogs might just be the best personal trainers for memory and mood.If you know someone who just needs an excuse to adopt, this episode fetches the science, the soul, and the silliness behind growing old with paws by your side.

In this episode, we dive into the remarkable true story of Paco—a stray mutt who rose to fame in 19th-century Madrid. From charming café-goers at Fornos to influencing the crowds at bullfights with his well-timed barks, Paco became more than just a dog—he was a cultural phenomenon. We trace his journey from beloved companion of the Marquis of Bogaraya to a symbol of the city itself, his tragic death sparking public mourning across Madrid. With his grave in Retiro Park and a modern statue in his honor, Paco’s legend reminds us how even the humblest among us can leave an everlasting mark on history.

In this insightful episode, we explore how pets are more than just companions—they’re co-therapists in the modern mental health movement. From lowering stress hormones to easing loneliness and supporting trauma recovery, animals are helping humans heal in powerful, science-backed ways.We delve into the growing societal embrace of therapy animals in schools, offices, and hospitals, and examine how the pandemic deepened our emotional bonds with pets. Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, or even a virtual pet, discover how the presence of animals—real or digital—is reshaping wellness in 2025. We also discuss challenges like affordability and access, and share creative ways to benefit from the magic of animals, even if you don’t have one of your own.

In this episode, we explore how ASICS is shaking up sports marketing by naming a dog—Felix the Samoyed—as its first-ever brand ambassador. As the face of the Mind’s Best Friend campaign, Felix highlights the powerful role dogs play in motivating movement and supporting mental health. Backed by global survey data, this initiative moves beyond athlete endorsements to focus on the everyday joy pets bring to our lives. Plus, learn how you can nominate your own pup to join the campaign using #MindsBestFriend—and support mental health charities along the way.

In this episode, we dive into The Friend, a deeply moving film based on a novel that explores the extraordinary power of friendship in the aftermath of grief. Join us as we reflect on the quiet heroism of showing up, and how sometimes, love doesn’t come from grand gestures but from simply being there.Whether you've watched the film or not, this conversation is a tribute to the kind of friendship that doesn’t ask for attention — just presence.

How did a dog become a viral sensation in a $32 billion tech deal?Explore Google's acquisition of Wiz, the industry's largest ever, and the remarkable story of ⁠Mika, CEO Assaf Rappaport's beloved dog. ⁠We discuss the tech, the virality, and the human side of a landmark moment, proving that even in billion-dollar deals, personal connection matters.

Ever noticed your dog blinking at you and wondered what’s going on? In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of canine communication to uncover why dogs blink at their humans. Is it affection, trust, or something more? Tune in as we decode this subtle yet powerful gesture and what it reveals about your furry best friend’s emotions. 🐶✨

In this heartwarming episode, we share the incredible story of ⁠Moo Daeng, the loyal Thai dog⁠ whose unwavering devotion captured a nation’s heart. After his homeless owner passed away in late 2024, Moo Daeng faithfully waited outside a 7-Eleven in Nakhon Ratchasima, earning him the title of the “⁠Hachiko⁠ of Korat.” Moo Daeng’s story is one of loyalty, resilience, and the power of compassion. Tune in to hear how a faithful dog found a new home—and a second chance at happiness.

🐕🦸‍♂️ Dive deep into the incredible history of Krypto the Superdog! 🐾 In this episode, we explore the origins of Superman's furry sidekick, from his Kryptonian roots to his epic adventures across the DC Universe. 💥 Learn about Krypto's amazing superpowers, his unwavering loyalty to the Man of Steel, and his impact on pop culture. 🎙️ We'll discuss his upcoming cinematic debut and how it's shaking up the DC universe. 🍿 Plus, we'll explore other super-pets and uncover the fascinating inspiration behind Krypto's creation. 🐕 Don't miss this paw-some episode! 🎙️