The Honest Dog Breeder Podcast

The New Year often comes with a lot of noise and pressure, but I believe real progress starts with slowing down to see where you actually stand. In this episode, I'm walking you through a simple reflection process to help you identify what worked last year, what was "clunky," and where you should focus your energy next. I share my own recent wins and "hair-pulling" moments—like realizing my branding didn't match my ideal buyers—to show you how to turn those friction points into a clear 90-day action plan. We'll also discuss the importance of investing in your long-term future, whether that's through financial planning, making space for creativity, or finally learning that one skill you've been avoiding. Join me as we cut through the resolutions and set your breeding program up for a sustainable, successful year ahead.

Christmas is the one time of year I finally slow down enough to reflect on whether my life and my breeding program are actually in alignment with the dreams I have for my family. In this episode, I'm digging into the idea that breeding should be a "bringer of good things"—whether that's financial freedom, family vacations, or simply the ability to be a more present parent. I truly believe that struggle is not proof of integrity, and it's time to stop being a martyr for your program if it's currently causing more resentment than joy. Join me for a year-end "gut check" as we evaluate what breeding cost you this year versus what it gave you, helping you decide if the scale is truly in balance. Every program requires a custom approach to success, and I want to help you design yours so that your breeding business finally supports the life you've always envisioned.

In this episode, I'm breaking down why even the best puppies won't sell if your messaging is out of sync, and how a few strategic pivots can help you finally reach your ideal buyer. By getting into alignment, you can stop chasing leads and start naming your price for the dogs you love to raise. Join me to learn how to make your breeding program more profitable and a whole lot easier to manage.

In our final episode of the series, we hear from Dana Filatova of Kismet Labradoodles in Ashville, NC, as she recounts the essential, sometimes challenging, lessons learned from her very first litter. Dana's debut litter was unexpectedly large—a "bonus-sized" group of eleven puppies! She takes us behind the scenes, sharing the unexpected obstacles and triumphs that came with managing such a big group. Most importantly, Dana reveals how the experience of raising those first eleven puppies forced her to redefine her ideal puppy buyer, shifting her focus and strategy to ensure the perfect fit for every single puppy. This interview is a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest lessons come not from research, but from the actual process of breeding.

Today we welcome Andrea Gardner of Desert Sky Poodles in Utah, who brings a truly unique perspective to the world of dog breeding, shaped by her background in agricultural education. Andrea explains how the principles of genetic selection and program management she learned in Ag Ed apply directly to her Poodle program, leading to a thoughtful, data-driven approach. She views her role as not just a breeder, but as a teacher, emphasizing the crucial importance of thoroughly educating buyers so that every Desert Sky puppy can achieve its full potential. Join us to learn how embracing an educational philosophy can revolutionize your breeding selection, buyer relationships, and overall view of your program.