Tricks My Dog Taught Me with Tanya H. Franklin : Life Lessons from Zack the Toy Poodle

Tanya H. Franklin
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Tanya has learned so much from her delightful toy poodle, Zack and hopes to share some of the tricks he's taught her about life with anyone who will listen.

  1. 10 hr ago

    Week 37: Sniff Out the Good Ones

    Tanya Franklin shares insights and life lessons from her journey as a dog mom and author, engaging in a lighthearted and deep conversation with her niece, Mackenzie Purnell, about college experiences, decision-making, and the significance of music. The conversation delves into Tanya's journey from nursing to education, her passion for working with children, and her approach to creating a positive and engaging classroom environment. Tanya shares her insights on recognizing and nurturing children's potential, building rapport with students, and fostering a safe and respectful learning space. She also discusses her observational approach to understanding people and identifying patterns in their behavior. The conversation delves into the themes of observation, judgment, forgiveness, and the complexity of human behavior. It explores the nuances of recognizing patterns, understanding character, and the impact of different perspectives on relationships and interactions. The conversation covers topics related to writing as an outlet, creative expression, trauma, education, accountability, and manipulation. It also delves into the importance of teaching children about rejection and the complexities of apologies and gaslighting. The conversation delves into the theme of observation and discernment, highlighting the ability to recognize patterns and behaviors in others. It also explores the importance of self-awareness and emotional control, emphasizing the value of trusting one's instincts and maintaining composure in challenging situations. Takeaways Sniffing out the good onesNavigating college experiencesThe power of music in shaping perspectives Passion for Teaching: Tanya's deep passion for working with children and her commitment to creating a positive and engaging classroom environment.Observational Approach: Tanya's keen observational skills and her ability to recognize patterns in people's behavior and schedules. Observation and recognition of patternsThe complexity of human behavior and the impact of different perspectives Writing as an outletImportance of teaching children about rejectionComplexities of apologies and gaslighting Observation and discernmentSelf-awareness and emotional control Chapters 00:00 Observation and Discernment00:01 Journey as a Dog Mom and Author01:39 College Experiences and Decision-Making13:24 The Significance of Music15:30 Transition to Education16:29 Creating a Positive Classroom Environment17:26 Understanding Children's Needs18:05 Building Rapport with Students20:59 Observational Approach to People22:31 Recognizing Patterns in Behavior25:12 Passion for Teaching and Observational Skills27:22 Creating a Safe Learning Space29:18 Observational Approach to Understanding People32:03 Recognizing Patterns in People's Behavior33:03 Observation and Recognition34:00 Understanding Character and Judgment36:19 Forgiveness and Empathy39:23 Peer Pressure and Acceptance40:36 Different Perspectives and Human Behavior48:08 Quietness in School vs. Talkativeness Outside49:38 Writing as an Outlet and Creative Expression51:49 Exploring Trauma and Accountability58:21 Teaching Children About Rejection and Apologies01:04:11 Understanding Gaslighting and Manipulation01:07:10 Self-Awareness and Emotional Control

  2. 6 Sept

    Week 36: Play It Cool

    The podcast episode explores the experiences of an eighth grader in the first week of school, focusing on themes of confidence, social dynamics, and self-expression. It delves into the challenges of navigating new opportunities, making decisions, and adapting to change. The conversation emphasizes the importance of authenticity, self-confidence, and taking a leap of faith in social and academic settings. The conversation delves into the dynamics of friendship and change, as well as the challenges of adapting to middle school. It explores the observation of changes in peers, handling social pressures, and navigating social tiers and identity. The discussion also covers the impact of back-to-school outfits on social image, handling schedule changes and mishaps, and the importance of laughing at oneself and playing it cool. Additionally, it addresses adolescent self-image and peer perception, as well as the significance of inner character and playing it cool. The conversation delves into the complexities of social dynamics, exploring the desire to fit in and the impact of self-perception on social interactions. It emphasizes the importance of authenticity over imitation and the challenges of navigating social relationships during adolescence. Takeaways Navigating the first week of eighth gradeBalancing confidence and social circlesPlaying it cool in new situations Friendship dynamicsAdapting to change Authenticity over imitationThe impact of self-perception on social interactions Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:52 Exploring the Poem 'Play It Cool'01:48 Surprises and Expectations in Eighth Grade02:14 The Role of Teachers and High Standards03:14 Authenticity and Self-Expression04:17 Navigating Social Dynamics in School05:25 Being Yourself vs. Trying Too Hard08:15 Exploring New Opportunities09:12 Joining Vocal and Making Decisions13:58 Taking a Leap of Faith16:44 Adapting to Change and New Social Circles17:24 Friendship Dynamics and Change18:23 Adapting to Middle School Changes19:09 Observing Changes in Peers19:53 Navigating Social Pressures20:16 Handling Drama and Peer Interactions21:47 Social Tiers and Identity22:33 Pressure and Self-Image23:09 Back-to-School Outfits and Social Image23:36 Navigating Social Pressures Through Appearance26:34 Handling Schedule Changes and Mishaps28:48 Handling Future Mishaps and Challenges29:21 Laughing at Oneself and Playing it Cool30:25 Adolescent Self-Image and Peer Perception32:29 Inner Character and Playing it Cool35:03 The Desire to Fit In and Be Liked

  3. 30 Aug

    Week 35: Appreciate Before They Depreciate

    Tanya Franklin and her cousin Alex Harris engage in a heartfelt conversation centered around the poem 'Appreciate Before They Depreciate.' The discussion covers themes of family, friendship, recovery, resilience, and faith, offering insights into the role of dogs in recovery, adapting to injury, and reflecting on life and priorities. The conversation delves into the themes of resilience, self-care, accepting help, reevaluating priorities, mortality, embracing the silver lining, and appreciating life and loved ones. Alex shares his journey of recovery and personal growth, highlighting the transformative impact of his experiences. Takeaways Appreciating family and friends before it's too lateThe role of faith and resilience in recovery and life Resilience in the face of adversityThe importance of appreciating life and loved ones Chapters 00:00 Appreciating Family and Friends03:24 The Role of Dogs in Recovery06:24 Adapting to Injury and Recovery10:33 Reflecting on Life and Priorities27:28 Resilience and Faith28:29 Finding Strength in Adversity31:07 The Power of Therapy and Self-Care33:20 Accepting Help and Letting Go of Pride37:19 Reevaluating Priorities and Relationships41:08 Reflection on Mortality and Life Choices51:18 Embracing the Silver Lining57:01 Appreciating Life and Loved Ones

  4. 23 Aug

    Week 34: The Love Show

    Tanya H. Franklin and Eric Butler talk through modern dating, affection, and the ways people hold back even when they genuinely care. Eric brings a direct, grounded perspective on self-respect, first impressions, and why he believes honesty and mutual effort matter more than mixed signals.In this episode, they also unpack how presentation shapes attraction, why some people keep relationships in “chase mode,” and what it means to show care without turning love into a performance. Key topics In this episode: Eric says he prefers texting when getting to know someone because phone calls can reveal quickly when a person has little to say or cannot sustain an actual conversation.They break down “ghosting” and “bread crumbing,” with Tanya explaining bread crumbing as giving just enough attention to keep someone interested.Eric shares that first impressions matter because you cannot make one twice, and he ties that to cleanliness, scent, and overall self-presentation.Tanya raises the idea of “adulation,” or false flattery, and asks how someone can show early care in a way that earns respect.Eric says self-care is the first thing he notices, including hair, skin, and teeth, and he does not care much about designer labels if basic care is missing.They discuss why people hesitate to show real interest, and Eric says too many adults are playing games because they fear being played themselves.Eric says he exits situations quickly if he believes someone is treating him wrong, and he believes people should be taken at face value when they show who they are.Tanya shares a personal story about being treated as a person instead of a stereotype, and Eric agrees that people should be judged by character, not background.The conversation moves into chivalry and reciprocity, with Eric saying people have become comfortable with the bare minimum, especially around simple acts like holding the door.Tanya and Eric compare different dating expectations around paying, with Eric saying whoever asks should be the one to pay, while Tanya agrees that entitlement can ruin effort and appreciation.Eric says his approach is to communicate clearly instead of ghosting, and he remains cool with some exes because he prefers honesty over confusion.The episode closes with a parenting angle: Eric says he teaches his daughter self-respect, self-sufficiency, and how to expect to be treated well, while also raising his sons to be strong, protective, and responsible.Timestamps (00:00) Texting vs phone calls when getting to know someone (01:40) Ghosting, bread crumbing, and why modern dating feels strange (03:09) First impressions, scent, and showing up well (04:31) False flattery vs genuine care (05:21) Self-care as a sign of self-respect (06:39) Why people hesitate to show real affection (10:28) Being seen as “too good” and the problem with control (12:33) Seeing people as individuals instead of stereotypes (14:56) Chivalry, effort, and whether people still appreciate it (17:34) Entitlement, door-holding, and who should pay (19:28) Reciprocation, dating norms, and why the culture has shifted (21:25) How people miss real connection by playing defense (22:31) Healing after being burned in a relationship (25:23) Communication, betrayal, and the cost of not saying the truth (31:39) What Eric wants his daughter and sons to learn about love (35:10) Why giving 100 percent can leave you with nothing when things end (36:20) Relationships should be mutual, not one person’s entire world (37:36) Final takeaway: don’t let fear or pride keep you from showing love

  5. 16 Aug

    Week 33: Quick and Smart

    In this episode, Tanya introduces her guest, Cree, as a force of nature and a phenomenal woman. They discuss Cree's fashion philosophy, her unforgettable travel experience in Dubai, and her mindset and resilience in adversity. They also explore Cree's role in the friend group as the nurturer and therapist. The conversation covers topics such as navigating relationships and maturity, the secret to growing together in a relationship, the journey of a lasting relationship, the impact of motherhood, transitioning careers and life goals, and the symbolism of dog breeds. Takeaways Fashion philosophy: Comfort and adaptabilityMindset and resilience in adversity Navigating relationships requires maturity and understanding.Growing together in a relationship involves mutual support and respect.The impact of motherhood can lead to a shift in perspective and priorities.Transitioning careers and life goals may require introspection and a willingness to pursue fulfilling paths.The symbolism of dog breeds can reflect personal traits and values. Chapters 00:00 Introducing Cree: A Force of Nature03:10 Fashion Philosophy: Comfort and Adaptability16:08 Unforgettable Travel Experience: Dubai21:42 Mindset and Resilience in Adversity28:01 Role in the Friend Group: The Nurturer and Therapist29:23 Navigating Relationships and Maturity31:05 The Secret to Growing Together32:07 The Journey of a Lasting Relationship37:14 The Impact of Motherhood48:13 Transitioning Careers and Life Goals55:07 The Symbolism of Dog Breeds

  6. 9 Aug

    Week 32: K(no)w People

    In this episode, Tanya Franklin chats with Felicia about overcoming shyness, the power of authentic connections, and the importance of doing hard things like Spartan races and sharing your journey. They explore how community, support, and embracing vulnerability can lead to personal growth and inspiration. Keywords self-improvement, authenticity, connections, fitness journey, overcoming shyness, community support, mental health, motivation, discipline, life lessons key topics Overcoming shyness and stepping out of comfort zones The impact of authentic connections and community support The importance of doing hard things for personal growth Sharing your journey to inspire others The role of discipline and consistency in fitness and life Balancing introversion and extroversion The significance of having a 'why' in motivation Supporting others through social media and real-life actions takeaways You have to just do it to find your people and your purpose. Sharing your journey can inspire and help others, often in ways you don't realize. Doing hard things like Spartan races builds mental and physical resilience. Authentic connections are formed through genuine interactions, not just online. Discipline and consistency are key to long-term success in fitness and life. Supporting others and being supportive creates a ripple effect of positivity. Titles From Shy to Shine: Embracing Your True Self The Power of Connection: How Sharing Your Journey Inspires Others sound bites "You can do hard things" "Just do it" "Ignore the noise and do you" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Felicia and the episode's theme 02:42 The importance of connecting and forming genuine relationships 03:11 Felicia shares her unforgettable concert experience with Bruno Mars 05:19 The significance of supporting artists and live music experiences 08:01 Felicia's history with Raheem Devon and her love for music 10:16 Music as motivation during workouts and running 13:12 Training for Spartan races and pushing beyond comfort zones 18:27 The mental benefits of doing hard things and modeling resilience for children 20:04 Maintaining motivation on low-energy days 22:25 The importance of nutrition and lifestyle changes for longevity 27:59 The significance of finding your community and your people 28:07 Felicia's decision to push past camera shyness and share her story 32:55 The impact of supporting and encouraging others online 36:24 Balancing introversion and extroversion through fitness and social support 40:22 The role of discipline, support, and faith in personal growth 43:43 Managing energy and boundaries to prevent burnout 46:33 Advice for women and mothers wanting to share their journey 49:33 The importance of good intentions and authentic self-expression 50:24 Felicia's dog breed analogy and the importance of being your true self 51:28 Reflecting on how social media connects us and inspires action 52:07 The journey from shyness to confidence and the power of support 53:25 Closing thoughts: Embrace connections, support others, and be your authentic self

  7. 2 Aug

    Week 31: Prepare to be on Guard

    In this episode, Tanya Franklin welcomes her long-time friend Kia Dunn to explore the art of reading people, trusting your gut, and navigating life's challenges with authenticity and intuition. They share personal stories, insights on kindness, and how to stay true to oneself amidst societal pressures. In this episode, Tanya Franklin and Kia explore the importance of emotional boundaries, self-advocacy, and the hidden layers of personality that influence our interactions. They share personal stories and insights on navigating trust, intuition, and self-awareness from childhood to adulthood. Takeaways Trusting your intuition is crucial in navigating social interactions.Negativity in society can impact trust and authenticity. Guard your heart without letting it changeRecognize and navigate red flagsMaintain a guarded approach at workThe impact of facial expressions on perceptionUnderstanding predatory behavior and exercising self-restraint The importance of being vigilant and recognizing the 'inner wolf' within oneselfThe significance of advocating for oneself and setting boundaries early in life Chapters 00:00 Guarding Against Negativity03:08 Trusting Your Gut08:08 The Impact of Kindness14:58 Negativity and Society21:12 Authenticity and Perception26:05 The Power of Intuition30:31 Guarding Your Heart31:31 Navigating Situations and Red Flags36:25 Guarded at Work49:00 The Thinking Face53:08 Predatory Behavior and Self-Restraint57:39 The Inner Wolf01:01:21 Advocating for Yourself01:05:11 Impact of Negative Educator01:16:28 Building Resilient Daughters

  8. 26 Jul

    Week 30: Stop. Take Notice

    The conversation covers the importance of self-care, the dynamics of sibling relationships, and insights into marriage and relationships. It delves into the significance of taking time for oneself, the unique dynamics of sibling relationships, and the complexities of maintaining a long-lasting marriage. Each theme is explored through personal experiences and reflections, offering valuable insights and perspectives. The conversation covers the importance of female friendships, the dynamics of hierarchy and relationships in the household, challenges in teaching and learning, the fitness journey and modeling healthy habits, cultural perspectives on food and nutrition, and the integration of AI in education. The conversation delves into the impact of AI on education and the challenges of teaching human writing in the age of AI. Susan Ray shares her insights and experiences, highlighting the need to adapt to the changing landscape of education and the role of AI in the classroom. Takeaways Importance of self-careSiblings and their dynamicsMarriage and relationships Importance of Female FriendshipsHierarchy in the HouseholdTeaching and Learning ChallengesFitness Journey and Modeling Healthy HabitsCultural Perspectives on Food and NutritionIntegration of AI in Education AI and its impact on educationTeaching human writing in the age of AI Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Self-Care03:02 Siblings and Their Dynamics15:12 Marriage and Relationships21:23 The Power of Female Friendships22:15 Hierarchy and Relationships in the Household27:18 Challenges in Teaching and Learning32:08 Fitness Journey and Modeling Healthy Habits40:19 Cultural Perspectives on Food and Nutrition42:05 Integration of AI in Education42:42 The Impact of AI on Education45:33 Teaching Human Writing in the Age of AI

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About

Tanya has learned so much from her delightful toy poodle, Zack and hopes to share some of the tricks he's taught her about life with anyone who will listen.

Information

  • Creator
    Tanya H. Franklin
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Tanya H. Franklin