Animal Training Academy

In this insightful and thought-provoking conversation, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by Kim Palermo—a Certified Control Unleashed Instructor (CCUI) and Animal Centred Education (ACE) Practitioner with over 20 years of professional experience in the dog training industry. A lifelong animal enthusiast who owns Blue Dog training and walking business near Boston, Kim brings a blend of academic rigor, from her degree in zoology, and compassionate curiosity to her work with dogs and other species. Together, Ryan and Kim explore the power of observation and the critical importance of creating "safe spaces" for learners to process information. Kim shares her personal journey from a "crossover trainer" to a passionate advocate for positive reinforcement, emphasizing how her own experiences with chronic pain and ADHD have shaped her empathetic, trauma-informed approach to training. They discuss how professional mentors—including the late Gail Fisher, Julie Daniels, and Sarah Fisher—have left an indelible mark on her career and the industry at large. A major focus of the discussion is the innovative concept Kim calls "opt-out stations." By integrating ACE Free Work and Control Unleashed principles, Kim explains how giving dogs the freedom to choose when to engage and when to take a break can drastically reduce frustration and increase clarity in training. She breaks down the science of assent versus consent and the role of "degrees of freedom" in allowing animals to participate in their own learning process without the pressure of perceived coercion. Whether she is working with high-level sports dogs or rescue dogs with complex histories, Kim demonstrates how these simple environmental adjustments can transform a struggling learner into an enthusiastic, confident partner. Throughout this episode, we discuss: ✅ Kim's journey from zookeeping and dog walking to clinical behavior and dog sports ✅ Why hands-on experience and observation are the most valuable tools for new trainers ✅ The core principles of ACE Free Work and how it physically and emotionally supports dogs ✅ How to bridge the gap between "artistry" and scalable training methodologies ✅ The fascinating concept of "opt-out stations" and how they provide clarity and choice ✅ Understanding the difference between consent and assent in animal training ✅ How to manage arousal and frustration by allowing learners to process the environment ✅ The value of finding mentors who encourage creativity and brave exploration Whether you are a seasoned professional, a beginner looking for guidance on how to start, or someone interested in the intersection of neuroscience and animal behavior, this episode offers a practical roadmap for creating training sessions built on kindness, agency, and connection. Links https://kimpalermo.com/ https://www.bluedogpetcare.com/ https://www.instagram.com/kimanddogs/

In this insightful conversation, Ryan Cartlidge is joined by Shane Gorbett — Curator of Animal Training and Behavior at the Philadelphia Zoo and current President of the Animal Behavior Management Alliance (ABMA). Shane brings a wealth of experience from the zoological world, where he specializes in animal care training and behavior management. Bringing a rare analytical lens to the profession, Shane challenges us to look past "common sense" and intuition, and instead embrace objective data as the foundation for high-level animal welfare and professional advocacy. Together, Ryan and Shane explore how documentation and data collection are far more than just administrative requirements; they are essential tools for clarity and institutional change. Shane shares how moving from "we think it's working" to "we know it's working" allows trainers to communicate more effectively with stakeholders, secure necessary resources, and prove the efficacy of their training programs. He offers practical reflections on how simple, consistent record-keeping can reveal trends that the human brain might otherwise miss, leading to more successful outcomes for both the animals and the humans who care for them. The conversation also highlights the role of the ABMA in fostering a global community where behavior management is shared across diverse species. Shane reflects on his journey hosting the ABMA podcast and the importance of professional collaboration in raising industry standards. For those who may feel intimidated by spreadsheets or "data phobia," Shane provides an empowering roadmap for starting small, finding the "why" behind the numbers, and using information to tell a more compelling and accurate story for the animals in our charge. Throughout this episode, we discuss: ✅ The shift from "intuition-based" to "data-driven" animal training ✅ Shane's role at the Philadelphia Zoo and his work leading the ABMA ✅ How to use objective data as a tool for advocacy and securing resources ✅ Overcoming "data phobia" and the practicalities of simple record-keeping ✅ The importance of tracking medical behaviors and husbandry progress for better welfare ✅ How the ABMA supports professional growth through global collaboration and shared knowledge ✅ Why objective evidence is the key to proving the "ripples" we create in our work ✅ Using data to bridge the gap between animal care staff and organizational leadership Whether you are working in a zoological setting, a domestic training environment, or simply looking for ways to elevate your professional standards, this episode offers a practical roadmap for using information to create a more ethical and impactful career. Links ABMA website: https://www.theabma.org/ Animal Behavior Conversations Podcast (Spotify): https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/theabmapodcast/ Email Shane: abc@theabma.org Philadelphia Zoo: https://www.philadelphiazoo.org/

In this candid and practical conclusion to their two-part conversation, Ryan Cartlidge and Sara Brueske shift from the training field to the front office to discuss the business of animal training. Sara shares an "in the trenches" look at her journey into facility ownership and the evolution of her business, Happy Dog Lodge. The conversation centers on a service model often debated within the positive reinforcement community: Board and Train. Sara offers a transparent look at the ethics, logistics, and communication strategies required to offer this service in a way that prioritises client education, successful skill transfer, and the wellbeing of the dog. Beyond the specific service, Ryan and Sara discuss the broader challenges of entrepreneurship, from the weight of managing a team to the art of marketing to both clients and professional peers. Sara's insights provide a valuable roadmap for any trainer navigating the complexities of making their passion a sustainable profession. Throughout this episode, we explore: ✅ The shift from solo sport trainer to facility owner and team leader ✅ A deep dive into the Board and Train model from a positive reinforcement perspective ✅ Strategies for ensuring successful training transfer from trainer to client ✅ The vital difference between marketing to your clients and marketing to your peers ✅ The real-world challenges and ethical considerations of running a training business ✅ How to build a service that meets market demand while upholding your training philosophy Part two is a must-listen for any training professional, offering an honest look at the sometimes uncomfortable but crucial business side of what we do and how to do it with integrity and foresight. Links Happy Dog Lodge - Boarding, Training, Grooming in Cambridge, MN www.happydoglodge.com Fenzi Dog Sports Academy www.fenzidogsportsacademy.com Facebook page: www.facebook.com/brueskesara

In this reflective and wisdom-filled conversation, Ryan Cartlidge welcomes back Lori Stevens, canine fitness, movement, and behavior specialist, creator of the Balance Harness, and long-time leader in the world of positive reinforcement training. As Lori marks her retirement from the professional speaking circuit, she takes us through the lessons that have defined her teaching philosophy and the perspectives that continue to guide her today. Drawing from decades of experience, Lori shares how her background in dance and movement shaped her keen eye for posture, balance, and subtle physical cues, and how these factors profoundly influence both behavior and wellbeing. Together, Ryan and Lori explore what it really means to be concise and precise as teachers, not just with our animal learners, but with the human ones too. From refining observation skills to simplifying feedback and setting learners up for success, Lori's insights reveal the quiet power of doing less to achieve more. Throughout this episode, we discuss: ✅ Why movement, posture, and physical comfort are critical variables in behavior and learning ✅ The art of teaching with clarity, and the difference between being concise and being precise ✅ How giving "one to three things" to focus on can transform learning outcomes ✅ The importance of slowing down, observing deeply, and trusting the process ✅ Lori's reflections on mentorship, gratitude, and the evolving landscape of positive reinforcement training Whether you are a new trainer just finding your feet or a seasoned professional reflecting on your journey, this conversation is an inspiring reminder that every small, thoughtful step forward can be life-changing for both our learners and ourselves.

In this thoughtful first half of a two-part conversation, we're joined by the insightful and articulate Ellen Yoakum—Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behavior Consultant, KPA CTP, and Behavior Consultant with Pet Harmony. Ellen's path in animal behavior began at the University of Washington, where she immersed herself in captive animal welfare and enrichment research under mentors including Dr. Eduardo Fernandez, Dr. James Ha, and Dr. Renee Ha. From conducting enrichment studies with gray wolves, penguins, and brown bears to working with Natural Encounters Inc. on free-flight avian programs, Ellen's career has spanned species, disciplines, and continents—all united by her deep curiosity about the teacher–learner relationship. Today, through her work with Pet Harmony, Ellen helps families and professionals navigate the complex needs of both human and non-human learners with compassion, creativity, and clarity. In this conversation, she and Ryan explore: ✅ The formative influence of Ellen's early research and mentors on her consulting approach ✅ How her experiences across species—from wolves to macaws—shaped her perspective on enrichment and welfare ✅ Why she finds comfort in being "the least knowledgeable person in the room" ✅ How interoception, emotional awareness, and naming our experiences support better communication and empathy ✅ The power of language, inclusive communication, and "assuming good intent" in our professional and personal relationships Ellen's reflections invite us to embrace imperfection, lead with curiosity, and build training cultures grounded in good faith and shared growth. Stay tuned for part two, where we'll dive deeper into her work with Pet Harmony, mentorship, and sustainable strategies for supporting both people and their pets. Links Enrichment for the Real World Petharmonytraining.com Pet Harmony on Instagram and Facebook Pet Harmony Pro on Instagram and TikTok Bear Studies: The Effects of Automated Scatter Feeders on Captive Grizzly Bear Activity Budgets Seasonal and Daily Activity of Two Zoo-Housed Grizzly Bears (Ursus Arctos Horribilis) Caregiver Burden Resources

In this inspiring first half of a two-part conversation, we're joined by the accomplished and thoughtful Megan Sanders—zoo behavior consultant, educator, and long-time advocate for evidence-based training. With over 23 years in the zoo field, much of it at Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, Megan's journey has spanned caring for everything from goats and guinea pigs to snow leopards and mountain lions. Along the way, she became CMZ's first Animal Behavior Programs Manager, helped launch zoo-wide training and enrichment initiatives, and co-developed courses that have shaped the next generation of zookeepers. Beyond the zoo, Megan has also taught in higher education, supported service dog programs, and now collaborates with Behavior Works LLC as a consultant and instructor. Together, we explore: ✅ How Megan's early squirrel and wombat encounters set her on a path toward behavior science ✅ Her evolution from keeper to building zoo-wide training systems ✅ The pivotal influence of mentors like Susan Friedman and Steve Martin ✅ Why "playing with better tennis players" is vital for professional growth ✅ The challenges of embracing discomfort as a pathway to improvement Megan's story is a reminder that growth often comes from leaning into the uncomfortable, surrounding ourselves with people who challenge us, and staying curious about both animals and ourselves. Stay tuned for part two, where we'll dive into her master's thesis research on teaching strategies for animal trainers and transferring skills into practice. Links https://www.behaviorworks.org/ https://absc.ku.edu/ https://behaviorexplorer.com/

In this inspiring first half of a two-part conversation, we're joined by the innovative and passionate Dr. Mari Valgma - Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer, creator of Movement Puzzles, and trailblazer bringing evidence-based training from Estonia to the world. Mari's story is anything but ordinary. From pursuing a PhD in maritime engineering in the UK to pioneering canine fitness training back home in Estonia, her journey reflects a powerful blend of problem-solving, resilience, and creativity. What started as a search to support her own dog's joint health has grown into a global movement helping thousands of dogs gain confidence, coordination, and joy through movement-based training. Together, we explore: ✅ How Mari's engineering background shaped her approach to canine fitness ✅ The pivotal role her dogs played in her shift from academia to training ✅ Why fitness is foundational to both physical wellness and behavioral confidence ✅ The challenges and triumphs of building a dog training career in a small country ✅ The evolution of Movement Puzzles from sport dog fitness to a confidence-building tool for all dogs Mari's journey is a vivid reminder that when we follow curiosity, honor the dogs in front of us, and embrace creative problem-solving, entirely new possibilities emerge - for dogs, their people, and the wider training community. Stay tuned for part two, where we'll dive deep into the nuts and bolts of Movement Puzzles and their transformative impact. Links Website: www.themovingcanine.com Free two-ball game training series: available via the website Facebook: Mari Valgma – The Moving Canine Instagram: @the.moving.canine

In this powerful and heartfelt first part of a two-part conversation, we're joined by the insightful and compassionate Adam Skandarani—Certified Control Unleashed Instructor, Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner, and tireless advocate for both dogs with Really Big Feelings and the humans who support them. Adam takes us on their "behavior odyssey," tracing a journey shaped by learning, unlearning, and growing alongside their two Boxers—Sansa and the unforgettable Flash Gordon. Through stories that are raw, moving, and instructive, Adam shares how Flash, with all his intensity, reactivity, and need for connection, became not just a training challenge but their greatest teacher. Together, we explore: ✅ How unmet social and medical needs can drive misunderstood behavior ✅ Why talking about behavior without discussing its context is a fruitless endeavor ✅ The power of control, decompression, and choice in building behavioral wellness ✅ Lessons from the late great Flash Gordon, ATA's honorary "Chief Remedial Socialization Officer" ✅ Practical ways to support clients navigating resistance around pain assessment ✅ The importance of trainer self-care and embracing therapeutic support This episode is a beautiful reminder that beneath every behavior lies a story—and that when we meet our learners where they are, profound transformation is possible. Dedicated to the memory of Flash, whose legacy continues to teach us all. Links www.flashofbrilliancedogs.com instagram.com/flashofbrilliancedogs https://www.facebook.com/FlashofBrillianceDog flashofbrilliancedogs@gmail.com