Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples

A show highlighting the animal training subject matter experts that make up the Animal Training Academy membership community

Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples is a education podcast hosted by Ryan Cartlidge, with 73 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Ryan Cartlidge hosts Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples, a education show with 73 episodes published.

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  Episode #73

  Shifting Perspectives in Wildlife Rehabilitation with Debbie Sykes [Episode 73]

  Aug 6, 202647 min

  In this inspiring episode of the Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples podcast, host Shelly Wood sits down with Debbie Sykes — veterinary technician, instructor for the International Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, and speaker chair for the Clinical Animal Behavior Conference — for a rich conversation about wildlife rehabilitation, animal welfare, and the power of shifting our perspective to see care through the animal's eyes. With an extensive background spanning two decades in wildlife rehabilitation, Debbie shares her journey from stumbling into the field in Southern California to tackling the heartbreaking realities of high mortality rates and preventable injuries in rescue centers. She reflects on the pivotal mentors who shaped her path, the importance of moving beyond "checking boxes" to truly meet animal needs, and why she transitioned from simply treating patients to focusing on upstream prevention through community education and coexistence. Debbie also opens up about her transition into teaching future veterinarians, her passion for science communication through simple calls to action (CTAs), and her recent adventures in cooperative care—including training her bearded dragon, Triss, for dental care with the help of the ATA community. Together, Shelly and Debbie explore: How learning to see care from the animal's perspective completely transformed wildlife rehabilitation practices The reality of compassion fatigue in rescue work and why shifting focus upstream to prevent injuries is crucial The power of simple, actionable conservation calls to action Smart antecedent arrangements and protocol design to help volunteers safely and successfully care for complex species like herons The vital role of community support, mentorship, and outside perspectives when hitting a training plateau Collaborative training wins, including teaching cooperative care for toothbrushing and oral medications with a bearded dragon named Triss This episode is a celebration of empathy, science-based care, and the steady work of helping both wildlife and humans thrive together. Debbie's story is a powerful reminder that whether we are working with wild patients or companion animals, slowing down to ask what the learner is experiencing allows us to improve welfare and make better decisions every single day. Links Debbie@NashvilleWildlifeConservation.org

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  Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples

  Beyond the Training Plan: Prioritizing the Human-Canine Bond with Jimmy Maxwell [Episode 72]

  Jul 2, 20261h 7m

  In this episode of the Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples podcast, host Shelly Wood sits down with Jimmy Maxwell—founder of Leap Canine Coaching—to explore the powerful intersection of human behavior, empathy, and science-based dog training. Jimmy shares his unexpected journey into the industry, which began not with dogs, but through years of youth ministry. He offers an honest account of growing up with a "traditional" view of dog training and the pivotal, eye-opening experience with his own chocolate Lab, Lambeau, that shifted his perspective toward reinforcement-based methods. Jimmy delves into his transition from Search and Rescue (SAR) to becoming a Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, and how he now approaches behavior modification by prioritizing the human-canine bond above all else. Beyond the technical side of training, Jimmy opens up about the often-unspoken challenges trainers face, including compassion fatigue, the emotional weight of behavioral euthanasia, and the necessity of finding safe communities for support. He also shares his unique philosophy on building rapport with clients, emphasizing the importance of meeting people where they are—using his own ministry background and observation skills to translate complex behavior concepts into relatable, human-centered language. Together, Shelly and Jimmy explore: How early life experiences, both good and bad, shape our professional behavior philosophies. The "double-edged sword" of being an empathetic trainer and how to maintain healthy professional boundaries. Why the "people side" of dog training is often the most critical component of behavior change. Practical strategies for connecting with clients who may hold different views on training. The essential role of vulnerability and seeking support to avoid burnout in the industry. This episode is a candid exploration of what it means to be a "whole" trainer—one who cares deeply for the animals while also fostering real, compassionate connections with the people on the other end of the leash. Links https://www.leapcanine.com/ jimmy@leapcanine.com

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  Episode #70

  Giving Animals a Say: The Journey to Force-Free with Simone Tuten [Episode 70]

  Apr 30, 202649 min

  In this enlightening episode of the Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples podcast, host Shelly Wood sits down with Simone Tuten —an animal behavior consultant and trainer based in Western Australia—for a deep conversation about the evolution of empathy, the science of behavior, and the profound impact of giving animals a voice . Simone works with both dogs and horses, bringing a unique multi-species perspective grounded in the firm belief that animals are sentient individuals who deserve to feel safe and understood . Simone shares her journey from a "shy child" who once comforted a distressed kitten at a school fair to a professional behaviorist who has navigated the transition from traditional, pressure-based methods to compassionate, force-free training . With a background in conservation biology and a previous career as a "weed scientist," Simone's path to full-time animal behavior was sparked by a spontaneous decision to join a dog training course that eventually changed her life . The conversation explores the "human side" of the training equation, with Simone reflecting on the patience and empathy required for both animals and their owners to make a true mindset shift. She candidly discusses her own experience of taking over a year to fully "click" with positive reinforcement for complex behavior challenges—a realization that fuels her compassionate approach to mentoring fellow trainers and supporting families . Together, Shelly and Simone explore: ✅ The Multi-Species Lens : Bridging the gap between canine and equine behavior through a shared philosophy of choice . ✅ The Year-Long Shift : Why it takes time to rewrite our own learning history and fully embrace force-free behavior modification . ✅ From Social Science to Science : How her background in conservation and government research informs her analytical approach to behavior . ✅ Consent in Practice : Helping owners read and respond to subtle body language cues to build lasting trust . ✅ Collaborative Care : The importance of working alongside veterinarians and specialists for holistic animal welfare . ✅ The Power of Mentorship : Focusing on the practical application of theory to help new trainers manage real-world client expectations . This episode is a celebration of the quiet, steady work of building trust across species. Simone's story is a powerful reminder that when we prioritize the animal's right to a "say" in their own lives, we don't just solve behavior problems—we create a partnership built on mutual respect . Links https://simonetuten.com.au/ https://www.facebook.com/SimoneTutenDogAndHorseBehaviourConsultant

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  Episode #69

  From Canes to Canines with Anna Gigliotti-Skret [Episode 69]

  Apr 2, 20261h 8m

  Podcast Synopsis In this insightful episode of the Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples podcast, host Shelly Wood sits down with Anna Gigliotti-Skret —a behavior-focused dog trainer based in Fremantle, Western Australia—for a deep dive into the intersection of human disability services and compassionate animal training. Anna shares her fascinating career evolution, starting from her roots in orientation and mobility instruction for the blind to her extensive experience as a Seeing Eye Dog instructor. Anna discusses the unique challenges of bridging the gap between high-stakes service dog work and the nuanced world of companion animal behavior. With a background enriched by the Karen Pryor Academy, Michael Shikashio's aggression studies, and Dr. Susan Friedman's Living and Learning with Animals , Anna brings a highly technical yet deeply empathetic lens to her independent practice, Forward Thinking Dog Training and Mobility. The conversation turns personal as Anna introduces Maggie, her "Cavoodle" with complex behavioral needs. Anna candidly explores the emotional and practical journey of managing Maggie's "doggy ADHD," the complexities of veterinary medication, and the reality of living with a high-needs pet. Together, Shelly and Anna explore: ✅ The Professional Pivot : How teaching humans to use long canes informed Anna's ability to break down training steps for dogs and their handlers. ✅ Navigating Systems : The ethical and emotional challenges of advocating for force-free methods within large, traditional organizations. ✅ Managing Expectations : Why "perfect heeling" isn't always the goal and how to prioritize an animal's needs (like a "sniffari") over a rigid training plan. ✅ Shared Goals and Family Dynamics : Balancing the needs of multiple family members and finding common ground in the training process. ✅ Cooperative Care Wins : Practical strategies for ear medication and home grooming, even when an animal has a history of avoidance. ✅ Creative Generalization : A delightful "happy win" involving a dog named Petro who learned to associate other dogs' bathroom breaks with high-value rewards. This episode is a masterclass in adaptability and advocacy. Anna's story reminds us that whether we are navigating a city with a guide dog or grooming a sensitive pet at home, the most powerful tools we have are patience, observation, and a commitment to meeting the individual exactly where they are. Links https://www.forwardthinkingmobility.com.au/ https://www.forwardthinkingdogtraining.com.au/ https://www.facebook.com/forwardthinkingdog https://www.instagram.com/forwardthinkingdog/

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  Episode #68

  Xenia Jones - Rescue, Resilience, and Behaviour Change Across the World [Episode 68]

  Mar 5, 202659 min

  In this inspiring episode of the Animal Training Academy: Making Ripples podcast, host Shelly Wood sits down with Xenia Jones — Behavior Therapist at the Animal Behavior Wellness Center in Northern Virginia — for a rich conversation about rescue, resilience, and the power of science-based, compassionate behavior support. With a lifelong background rescuing dogs and cats across five countries — from her native Costa Rica, to South Florida, Spain, Taiwan, and China — Xenia shares the extraordinary experiences that shaped her trauma-informed, choice-based approach to helping both dogs and cats. She reflects on the unique challenges she witnessed in different regions, the importance of teaming up with local communities, and why understanding human culture is essential if we want to truly support animals. Xenia also opens up about her deep connection to separation anxiety, including her own childhood experience and a pivotal case in Spain that left a lasting mark. From there, she takes us through her journey into formal education and certification — including mentorship through Julie Naismith's separation anxiety program and becoming a Certified Control Unleashed Instructor under Leslie McDevitt. Together, Shelly and Xenia explore: ✅ How rescue work across cultures shaped Xenia's behavior philosophy ✅ What it was like rescuing hundreds of dogs during the COVID crisis in Wuhan ✅ Why resilience can look different depending on environment and history ✅ The reality of preparing rescue dogs for overseas adoption — medically and behaviorally ✅ What a Behavior Therapist does in a veterinary behavior clinic setting ✅ A powerful case study combining CAT (Constructional Aggression Treatment) and Control Unleashed "Super Bowls" to help a dog with severe visitor-directed reactivity ✅ Supporting not just the animal — but the family's emotional bandwidth too ✅ A training win inspired by the ATA community: teaching a dog to take medication on cue This episode is a celebration of global compassion, learning, and the quiet, steady work of helping animals feel safe again. Xenia's story is a powerful reminder that when we center choice, dignity, and science — we don't just change behavior. We change lives. Links ​​YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@unleashingpawsabilities Substack https://substack.com/@unleashingpawsabilities Animal Behavior Wellness Center https://www.abwellnesscenter.com

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