The Honest Dog Breeder Podcast

Why does "doing it right" feel so exhausting? If you've ever felt judged for your feeding choices, overwhelmed by puppy curriculums, or drained by 24/7 buyer messages, this episode is for you. I'm breaking down the "Proxy Problem"—the trap of using checklists and health-testing markers as an ethical standard instead of a pathway—and why being a truly good dog breeder is about intentional decision-making, not mindless dogma. We're shifting the focus from constant effort to sustainable results. If you're ready to trade burnout for a clear, sustainable path forward, visit https://honestdogbreeder.com/129 to register for my upcoming workshop: Why Breeding Feels Overwhelming—and What to Do Instead.

This episode is all about the "money" side of breeding that many people feel uncomfortable talking about: puppy deposits. From the classic debate over non-refundable fees to the massive legal shifts happening in California, I'm breaking down how to structure your deposits to protect your business and your reputation. We'll look at the specific math of cash flow, how to handle contracts without making things complicated, and why your deposit strategy is actually a key part of your buyer's journey. Join me as we clear up the confusion so you can focus on what matters—raising great dogs.

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.