Talking Couch Potatoes

🎄✨ Episode 57 is here! ✨🎄In our final episode for the year, Talking Couch Potatoes brings you a story that is not just a conversation...it’s a journey.This episode features Kim Whiting, author of Simba’s Story - a deeply moving account of a traumatised greyhound who went missing for 16 days in the Dandenong Ranges, and the extraordinary community that refused to give up on him. ❤️Simba’s story is about so much more than a lost dog.It’s about trauma, trust, survival instincts, and unconditional love. It’s about what greyhounds endure before they ever reach a couch. And it’s about the quiet power of people coming together when it matters most.Matt and Jem talk with Kim about:🐕 Adopting fearful, traumatised greyhounds🌲 What really happens when a dog is lost and in survival mode🤝 The unbelievable strength of the greyhound community✨ The power of hope 📖 You can buy your own copy of Simba's Story here! https://www.balboapress.com/en-AU/bookstore/bookdetails/868814-simbas-storyAll proceeds from Simba’s Story go directly to Greyhound Rescue, making this book a gift that truly helps hounds in need. 📖❤️This is our Christmas Miracle episode — and a reminder that love, patience, and community can change lives.Proudly supported as always by the wonderful Henry Houndwear, what all the best dressed hounds are wearing! Get yours here https://henryhoundwear.com.au/

This week, we sit down with life and mindset coach, former veterinarian and long-time animal advocate, Anita Marriott and this conversation is one every advocate needs to hear!✨ Anita breaks down the difference between empathy fatigue and compassion fatigue (or burnout), and why knowing the difference can keep you in the fight longer.✨ She shares tools for sustainable advocacy, including practical mindset shifts that help us stay effective, grounded and connected to purpose.✨ And she reflects on her heartbreaking early encounters with greyhounds inside the veterinary system, a stark reminder of how the exploitation continued beyond the track.⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode includes descriptions of veterinary practices involving greyhounds being used as “donations” for training and blood collection. Take care listening.We also talk about:🔥 Why advocates burn out, and how to stop it💛 Effective advocacy without sacrificing yourself 📌 Tips for leaders and individuals to stay in the gameAnita’s honesty and clarity will stay with you long after the episode ends. Check out her coaching services here https://theveganmindsetcoach.com/Plus, Matt & Jem unpack the brand-new WA voter survey on greyhound racing that indicates a 60% majority in favour of ending greyhound racing, across parties and across electorates! Read the survey results here https://www.freethehounds.com.au/wa-survey-on-dog-racing/#FreeTheHounds #TalkingCouchPotatoes #GreyhoundWelfare #AdvocacyMatters

🐾 EP55 is here – and it’s a BIG one! 🎙️💥We’re joined once again by powerhouse advocate, MP Georgie Purcell, leader in the fight to protect greyhounds and push for an end to the racing industry.💬 Georgie dives into:📉 How transparency wins in Victoria are forcing truthful reporting on deaths & injuries🐕 How public opinion has shifted from dogs as commodities to beloved companions📊 The explosive financial reality of taxpayer money propping up the industry🤝 The unstoppable strength of rescue groups, volunteer advocates & everyday supporters📍 Why inquiries and accountability are the beginning of the end for greyhound racingFrom political strategy to community impact, this episode pulls the curtain back on what’s really happening behind racing's glossy messaging – and why its time is running out.🎧 Tune in for an inspiring, passionate, funny and fiercely hopeful conversation!

In this powerful episode, Matt & Mel discuss the fast-approaching deadline for submissions to the WA Parliamentary Inquiry into Greyhound Racing — closing 17th November. 🗓️Special guest Honi Rawlings, a former on-track vet nurse, opens up about her confronting experiences inside the industry - from the emotional toll of euthanising injured dogs 💔 to the joy of adopting her own greyhounds 🐾.Whether you're a long-time advocate or just learning about the issue, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of why your voice matters. 🗣️🎧 Tune in for honest conversations, emotional stories, and real advocacy in action!👉 Submissions close 17th Nov — don’t miss your chance to speak up for the dogs. SUBMIT HERE! https://www.freethehounds.com.au/wa-government-inquiry-into-greyhound-racing/

Artist Elliott Fox joins Matt and Mel to discuss his powerful exhibition, Saint Grey - a breathtaking tribute to greyhounds and a call for compassion through art. 🎨🐕Elliott shares how his muse, rescue greyhound Adam Barker, inspired him to create Saint Grey, a life-size sculpture with angelic wings symbolising hope, protection, and the spirit of every dog who’s ever needed saving. 🕊️Together they explore how art can move hearts, shift perspectives, and give a voice to those who can’t speak for themselves. 💫🗓️ Saint Grey comes to Perth — January 13–21, 2026.🎨 Learn more at elliottfox.art🐾 Proudly sponsored by Henry Houndwear, find your hound's fashion at henryhoundwear.com#SaintGrey #ElliottFox #TalkingCouchPotatoes #GreyhoundLove #ArtForChange #FreeTheHounds