A Different Kind of Dog Podcast—Real Talk for Guardians, Pros & Dog Lovers
Where honesty, empathy, and education meet—no fluff, no shame, and no topic off-limits.
Meet Your Host & Producer
Em - Host & Creator
Em is a passionate animal advocate with over 30 years of hands-on experience as a retired veterinary technician, pet sitter, dog walker, and now a virtual dog trainer. She holds multiple certifications in the canine field, including Family Dog Mediator (FDM), Certified Canine Enrichment Technician (DN-CET), and Certified Professional Cani
Em is a passionate animal advocate with over 30 years of hands-on experience as a retired veterinary technician, pet sitter, dog walker, and now a virtual dog trainer. She holds multiple certifications in the canine field, including Family Dog Mediator (FDM), Certified Canine Enrichment Technician (DN-CET), and Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist (CPCN).
Her lifelong dream came to life through Straight Up Dog Talk, where she brings a perspective few others can—shaped by decades behind the treatment room doors and in the homes of dogs with big feelings. Her mission? To normalize honest, often overlooked conversations about dog parenthood. From behavior and training to health, nutrition, and grief, Em guides pet guardians through every stage with empathy, education, and zero judgment.
When she’s not podcasting or training, you’ll find her hanging with her two dogs, Toby and Fitz—who regularly steal the spotlight on her Instagram and remind her daily why this work matters.
Ready to transform your relationship with your dog?
Head over to the Straight Up Dog Training page to work one-on-one with Em and build a stronger, happier bond with your pup.
🎧 Straight Up Dog Talk: Now Streaming Everywhere
Stay connected with new episodes of Straight Up Dog Talk—the podcast where dog guardians, professionals, and passionate pet people come together for real, honest conversations about life on both sides of the leash.
🗓 New episodes drop every Wednesday
🎙 Stream it your way:
Listen on your favorite platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Goo
Stay connected with new episodes of Straight Up Dog Talk—the podcast where dog guardians, professionals, and passionate pet people come together for real, honest conversations about life on both sides of the leash.
🗓 New episodes drop every Wednesday
🎙 Stream it your way:
Listen on your favorite platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more—all in one place.
Prefer to listen online or support the show?
👉 Visit the Fuel the Mission & Listen page to stream episodes and learn how you can get involved.
Don’t miss out—tune in and be part of the conversation.
Josh - Producer
Josh - Producer
Josh is a multifaceted creative with a passion for storytelling, humor, and podcasting. As a role-playing game author and longtime podcaster, he brought a unique mix of insight, wit, and technical skill to Straight Up Dog Talk—helping shape the show’s foundation and voice.
Josh served as the editor and producer for episodes 1–48 and cohost
Josh is a multifaceted creative with a passion for storytelling, humor, and podcasting. As a role-playing game author and longtime podcaster, he brought a unique mix of insight, wit, and technical skill to Straight Up Dog Talk—helping shape the show’s foundation and voice.
Josh served as the editor and producer for episodes 1–48 and cohosted through episode 39, playing a key role in helping Em launch the podcast and learn the ropes of podcast production. His presence in the early episodes reflects the collaborative energy that helped the show take off.
Previously the host of several geek-focused podcasts including Digital Llama, Knightmare, and Wasta Show (RIP!), Josh later cohosted Graphically Novel and RetConversations. Although he has since retired Graphically Novel, he continues to explore new creative passions and geeky projects behind the scenes.
While Josh has moved on from Straight Up Dog Talk, his influence remains a valued part of the podcast’s journey—and we’re forever grateful for his early contributions to the show.
Open Roads, Honest Conversations – What’s Next for Straight
Real stories, meaningful connections, and dog-friendly adventures from communities across the country.
🚐 Straight Up Dog Talk Is Hitting the Road
I’m getting ready to take Straight Up Dog Talk on a cross-country RV journey with my two dogs, Toby and Fitz—and I’d love to bring you along for the ride.
This isn’t just about travel. It’s a deeper extension of the podcast’s mission: to highlight the people, pups, and places shaping the dog world—and to bring real, honest conversations to life through in-person episodes, meetups, and connection.
Along the way, I’ll be visiting local rescues, meeting with incredible dog professionals, recording on-site interviews, and exploring dog-friendly communities in every region we can reach.
And yes, I’ll still be offering virtual training support from wherever we park—proving that education and connection can happen from the mountains, the beach, or a quiet corner of a campground.
But here’s the truth:
🚌 I don’t have the RV yet.
To get this journey on the road, I need support from this amazing community we’ve built together.
💛 How You Can Help
• Donate to help fund the RV that will become our mobile podcast studio and training space
• Join the guest waitlist to be part of an episode when I’m in your area
• Connect me with potential sponsors or collaborators who believe in dog education and advocacy
• Share the mission with fellow dog lovers, pet professionals, and small business owners
This RV isn’t just for me—it’s for you, your dogs, and the stories that deserve to be told. If Straight Up Dog Talk has ever helped you feel seen, supported, or inspired, now’s the time to help bring this next chapter to life.
➡️ Head to the Fuel the Mission & Listen page to learn more, get involved, and be part of what’s next—
let’s build something amazing, together.
Support Your Dog’s Mind and Body—Starting Today!
Create Real Change With Nutrition and Enrichment That Works
Personalized programs are now available to help your dog thrive through better nutrition and meaningful enrichment. These aren’t one-size-fits-all plans—each one is tailored to your dog’s needs and your lifestyle.
Whether you're looking to reduce stress, improve behavior, or just give your pup a healthier, more fulfilling life, you're in the right place.
Let’s build a plan that works for both of you.
DIY Dehydrated Dog Treats – Free Guide!
Wholesome, homemade treats your dog will love. This step-by-step guide walks you through making healthy snacks that support better nutrition.
Transform Behavior with Virtual Training
Play-based, personalized training that fits your schedule and your dog’s unique needs. Get expert support, daily feedback, and lasting results—no travel required.
Merch
Wear the Mission. Support the Podcast. Fuel the Journey.
Looking for a cozy way to support Straight Up Dog Talk and our upcoming RV tour?
Every purchase helps fund podcast episodes, virtual training, community meetups, and real-life stories from the road.
Wear the message and help keep the conversation going—wherever the road takes us.
Got a Question, Story, or Idea to Share?
Let's Connect!
Whether you're a new pet guardian or a seasoned pro, your voice matters—and we’d love to hear from you.
This is the place to reach out for:
• Guest inquiries
• Podcast topic ideas
• Collaborations and partnerships
• Sponsorship opportunities
Want to be a guest on Straight Up Dog Talk or chat about working together?
Click below to email Em directly.
💛 Let’s build stronger bonds—on both sides of the leash.
Straight Up Dog Talk
