The Westies & Besties Podcast

Alex Griffin
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  • Pets & Animals

Welcome to The Westies & Besties Podcast — the show that celebrates everything wonderful about West Highland White Terriers and the people who adore them! Hosted by Alex Griffin and Kim Latham, we bring you heartwarming stories, expert advice, and real-life experiences from Westie guardians, breeders, vets, groomers, and rescue heroes around the world. Whether it’s health tips, training insights, hilarious tales of mischief, or inspiring rescue journeys, every episode is packed with Westie love and laughter. Join us as we shine a spotlight on this cheeky, charming, and endlessly loyal little breed — and the incredible community that surrounds it. Subscribe and be part of the world wide Westies & Besties family — because life’s simply better with a Westie by your side!

  1. 5d ago

    From a Farmer’s Secret Remedy to a Global Animal Health Brand… What Happened Next?

    Can nature really provide a different approach to animal health and wellbeing? In this fascinating episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, Alex Griffin sits down with Sean Cooney, founder of Botanica International, to discover the story behind a natural health brand that began with farming, traditional remedies and a simple philosophy: go back to nature. Sean shares how his upbringing on a farm shaped his approach to animal care, and how an unexpected challenge involving a customer’s persistent foot problem led to the creation of what would eventually become Botanica. From horses and dogs to elephants, Sean explains the thinking behind his natural formulations, why he believes synergy between ingredients is so important, and how listening to customer experiences helped him refine his products over the years. The conversation also explores Westie skin health, natural versus conventional approaches, non-toxic pet care, prevention, animal wellbeing and the importance of educating pet owners about what they're putting on their animals. And then there's the incredible story of how Botanica entered the Chinese market despite being told it was a crazy idea. If you're interested in Westie health, natural pet care, animal wellbeing, herbal products, equine health, dog skin problems and the story behind successful natural health brands, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 🐾 Listen to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert conversations covering Westie health, nutrition, wellbeing, natural care, business and everything that makes our dogs part of the family. 🔑 Key Takeaways 1. Sometimes the best ideas start with a problem Botanica's story began when Sean was challenged to find a natural solution for a customer's persistent foot problem—and that unexpected experiment became the beginning of something much bigger. 2. Nature was at the heart of Sean's upbringing Growing up on a farm gave Sean an early appreciation for natural approaches to caring for animals and people. 3. Synergy is central to his philosophy Sean explains his belief that ingredients should work together rather than against one another—like multiple horses pulling a cart in the same direction. 4. Customer feedback can shape a product Sean describes how customers returning with their own experiences helped him continually refine and develop his formulations. 5. Natural animal care isn't limited to one species The conversation explores applications ranging from horses and dogs to some truly unexpected animals, including elephants. 6. Education is becoming increasingly important The episode explores how social media and access to information are changing the way pet owners research animal health and wellbeing. 7. Prevention matters Alex and Sean discuss whether better daily care could help owners take a more preventative approach to common skin issues in dogs. 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts 🔥Guest links - Botanica International Ltd

    From a Farmer’s Secret Remedy to a Global Animal Health Brand… What Happened Next?

  2. Jul 15

    Can Your Dog Really Become a £500,000 Brand? The Truth Every Pet Owner Needs to Hear!

    Could your dog become the next big pet influencer? In this fascinating episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, branding expert Will Green (Marketing Made Clear) reveals what really separates successful pet brands from the thousands of accounts that never grow. You'll discover why some dogs generate hundreds of thousands of followers—and even lucrative brand partnerships—while others struggle to gain traction. From storytelling and consistency to AI, social media algorithms, authenticity, and monetisation, this episode is packed with practical advice for anyone dreaming of building a successful dog brand. Whether you own a Westie, Labrador, Spaniel, or any other breed, these branding principles apply to every pet owner looking to grow an audience online. 🐾 In this episode you'll learn: How to build a memorable dog brand from scratchWhy storytelling beats cute photos aloneThe biggest branding mistakes most owners makeHow social media algorithms really workHow AI is changing content creationWhen (and when not) to monetise your audienceThe secret ingredient behind every successful pet influencerWhy authenticity will become more valuable than everIf you've ever wondered whether your dog could become an influencer—or even a business—this episode is a must-watch. 🎧 Subscribe to The Westies & Besties Podcast for expert advice on dog health, behaviour, nutrition, branding, business and everything Westie. Suggested Chapters 00:00 Can Dogs Really Become a Brand? 01:45 What Is Branding? 05:30 Why Coca-Cola Owns Christmas 07:00 The Power of Storytelling 09:00 Biggest Branding Misconceptions 10:45 How To Start From Zero 15:45 Posting Strategy & Consistency 20:45 Why Emotional Stories Go Viral 24:00 Five Questions To Ask Before Starting 30:45 Building Communities That Last 34:00 Which Social Media Platform Should You Choose? 36:30 Best Free Content Creation Tools 38:30 How AI Is Changing Marketing 47:30 When Should You Start Making Money? 56:00 Biggest Branding Mistakes 57:00 The Most Underrated Marketing Strategy 59:00 How To Build A Leading Dog Brand 1:00:40 Final Advice For Every Future Pet Influencer Key Takeaways ✅ A brand is far more than a logo—it's the promise people associate with you. ✅ Emotional storytelling consistently outperforms generic "cute dog" content. ✅ Consistency beats perfection every time. ✅ Don't try to appeal to everyone—find your tribe. ✅ Build trust before trying to monetise your audience. ✅ AI should enhance creativity, not replace authenticity. ✅ The strongest pet brands are built around genuine passion and community. ✅ Focus on becoming interesting—not famous. 🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes every 2 weeks. 🔗 Links to Will & Marketing Made Clear below. Website - https://marketingmadeclear.com/

    Can Your Dog Really Become a £500,000 Brand? The Truth Every Pet Owner Needs to Hear!

  3. Jul 1

    Is your cleaning routine actually making your Westie itchier?

    What if the secret to healthier skin, fresher breath, and calmer ears isn't more cleaning, but the right kind of bacteria? In this episode, Alex sits down with Joe Flanagan, founder of Ingenious Probiotics, to unpack the fascinating world of your dog's microbiome and why wiping out bacteria might be doing more harm than good. Joe breaks down the difference between prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, explains why antibacterial products can trigger antimicrobial resistance, and reveals the surprising link between household chemicals and conditions like canine atopic dermatitis. He also shares his own experience with Tavati, a natural hibiscus bark oil used for generations in the Cook Islands to support joint mobility and tissue repair, and why he's now bringing it to UK and Irish dog guardians. From ear infections to itchy skin, carpet chemicals to bedtime routines, this conversation is packed with practical, natural insights every guardian needs to hear. Tune in and discover how balance, not bleach, could be the key to your dog's wellbeing. 🐾 The Westies & Besties Podcast brings together leading experts, veterinarians, breeders, behaviourists and passionate Westie owners to help you give your Westie the happiest, healthiest life possible. Subscribe for new episodes every week. 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts 🔗 Links to Joe and Ingenious Probiotics below. Website - https://www.ingenious-probiotics.com/

    Is your cleaning routine actually making your Westie itchier?

  4. Jun 17

    The Dog That Changed Animal Welfare Forever | Carolyn Lee

    Join us as Carolyn Lee shares her inspiring journey of rescuing Kayla, a Westie from a puppy mill, and her ongoing fight against puppy mills through legislation, advocacy, and community efforts. Discover how one dog's story can ignite a movement to end animal cruelty and promote responsible pet ownership. 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4CggDDrDhKw3mQ3HPxhGYI?si=a0023565dac04783 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlock-the-power-of-red-light-therapy-for-your/id1845688452?i=1000771013648 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts Key topics Kayla's rescue story from puppy mill Legislation to ban puppy mills in the US Community efforts and fundraising for rescue The impact of social media in animal advocacy The importance of responsible pet ownership Sound bites "Thanks for making my story matter." "Kayla's story is a catalyst for change." "It's an honour to share Kayla's story." Chapters 00:00 The Journey Begins: Kayla's Story 10:12 Transforming Heartbreak into Hope: Kayla's Foundation 20:18 Legislative Advocacy: Fighting Against Puppy Mills 30:28 The Dark Reality of Puppy Mills 33:02 Empowering Change: The Role of Awareness and Education 33:39 Navigating the Westie Adoption Process 36:39 Building a Supportive Westie Community 41:33 Growing Kayla's Foundation 45:19 The Importance of Teamwork in Rescue Work 50:16 Finding the Right Westie for You 54:20 Honouring Kayla's Legacy Resources Kayla's Foundation Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/kaylasauctiongroup Westie Rescue Southeast - https://www.westierescuesoutheast.org Pumpkin and Friends Rescue - https://pumpkinandfriends.org Westies and Besties Magazine - https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com Dr. Vince McNally - Holistic Vet - https://www.vetvance.com Guest links Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/carolyn.lee.9887 Website - https://kaylasfoundation.org/

    The Dog That Changed Animal Welfare Forever | Carolyn Lee

  5. Jun 3

    Unlock the Power of Red Light Therapy for Your Dog — Safely and Effectively!

    Worried about how to treat your pet with new technology without causing stress or discomfort? Discover simple, proven steps to ensure your dog feels safe before, during, and after red light therapy sessions. Whether you’re a seasoned pet owner or a curious newcomer, learn how to make advanced treatment accessible, effective, and stress-free. In this episode, we dive into the crucial first step many overlook: consent. Ruth Milner explains how to desensitize your dog to red light devices, minimizing anxiety and ensuring maximum benefit. She shares insights from her experiences working with wildlife, exotics, and domestic pets, revealing why comfort is key to successful therapy. You’ll hear how the latest silent devices make treatment quieter, reducing stress and improving outcomes for your furry friend. We also explore the nuts and bolts of red light therapy. Ruth breaks down how long treatments should last—like the precise 31-second dose for pain relief—and how to target specific areas like a pro. Whether dealing with injuries like IVDD or general trauma, you’ll discover practical tips that turn a potentially intimidating process into a stress-free routine. Plus, get insider advice on demonstrating this therapy at shows and events, making pet health accessible to everyone. Failing to prepare your dog for therapy can lead to greater anxiety, less effective healing, and missed opportunities for rapid recovery. On the flip side, understanding these simple techniques offers a chance for faster, more comfortable healing and a calmer pet. If you’re serious about giving your dog the best care possible, this episode is your essential guide. Perfect for pet owners, veterinarians, and animal lovers eager to incorporate innovative therapy techniques safely. Whether you’re new to red light therapy or looking to refine your approach, this episode equips you with practical, science-backed insights to support your dog’s health confidently. Hit play and unlock the calm, healing power of light — your dog will thank you. Watch the FULL episode here - https://youtube.com/@westiesandbestiestv?si=pydaHzNztUOTAzJE 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts 🔥Guest links Website – https://photizo.net Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/PhotizoLightTherapy/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/photizolight/

    Unlock the Power of Red Light Therapy for Your Dog — Safely and Effectively!

  6. Apr 28

    How Three Westies Changed My Life and Inspired My Crime Novels!

    Join us as we dive into the heartwarming and inspiring journey of Madeleine Eskedahl, a bestselling author whose love for Westies has not only enriched her life but also inspired her gripping crime novels. Discover the secrets behind her dogs' long, happy lives and how a simple change in diet transformed their health. Plus, get a glimpse into her unique life in New Zealand, filled with stories of dogs, penguins, and creativity. Watch the FULL episode here: https://youtube.com/@westiesandbestiestv?si=suttFUE5KNv9p3P5 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts 🔥Guest links Facebook – https://facebook.com/madeleine.roberts.73 Website - https://www.madeleineeskedahlauthor.com/

    How Three Westies Changed My Life and Inspired My Crime Novels!

  7. Apr 14

    Pumpkin's Journey: A Westie's Fight Against Disability!

    This episode features Tammy Fox sharing the inspiring story of Pumpkin, a disabled Westie who has become a symbol of resilience and compassion. Discover how Pumpkin's journey has led to raising awareness, supporting charities, and transforming lives through innovative animal rehabilitation and charity work. 🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs! 🔥Key Topics Pumpkin's rescue story and disability The role of wheelchairs and rehabilitation in animal recovery Tammy Fox's charity work supporting disabled animals 🔥Sound bites "Six vets to find help for Pumpkin" "Bond with Pumpkin is like no other" "Pumpkin as a calming therapy dog" 🔥Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pumpkin's Journey 01:56 The Adoption Story of Pumpkin 04:58 Overcoming Medical Challenges 09:28 The Role of Community Support 12:24 Pumpkin's Global Impact and Following 15:19 Establishing a Charity for Disabled Animals 19:04 Providing Rehabilitation and Support 20:55 Pumpkin as a Therapy Dog 24:38 Advocacy in Parliament for Disabled Animals 28:52 Challenges and Rewards of Caring for Disabled Pets 39:42 Changing Perceptions and Saving Lives 40:13 Collaboration in Veterinary Care 41:17 Rehabilitation and Strength Building 42:15 The Emotional Journey of Pet Guardians 44:16 Community Support and Volunteer Efforts 45:02 The Joy of Fitting Wheelchairs 47:07 Inspiring Stories of Resilience 49:39 Innovative Solutions for Disabled Animals 50:48 Training and Expanding the Network 53:06 International Outreach and Support 54:02 Quickfire Round with Pumpkin 01:01:30 Final Thoughts and Future Plans 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts 🔥Resources & Links Pumpkin and Friends Charity - https://pumpkinandfriends.org Tammy Fox's Social Media - https://facebook.com/pumpkinandfriends Wheelchair Fitting Training Course - https://pumpkinandfriends.org/training UK Animal Rescue Support - https://rspca.org.uk 🔥Guest links Facebook - https://facebook.com/pumpkinandfriends Website - https://pumpkinandfriends.org

    Pumpkin's Journey: A Westie's Fight Against Disability!

  8. Mar 17

    SAS & MI5 Secrets: How to Stay Safe in a Dangerous World | Situational Awareness!

    Right now in the UK, over 200 people a day have their phones or belongings stolen… and most never see it coming. In this powerful episode of the Westies & Besties Podcast, host Alex Griffin sits down with former SAS operator and MI5 advisor Mick Hawkes to reveal the truth about situational awareness — the skill that could literally save your life. With over 24 years in the British military, including elite service in the 22 SAS, and decades working in global security across high-risk regions, Mick shares real-world insights from the front lines of danger — and how YOU can apply them in everyday life. From phone thefts and street crime to personal safety while walking your dog, this episode breaks down why so many people are vulnerable — and how to fix it. 🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs! 🔥 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why most people completely miss danger signals The biggest mistakes people make on their phones in public How criminals target distracted dog walkers Simple ways to instantly improve your situational awareness What SAS and intelligence professionals do differently Why self-defence alone won’t save you Real stories from covert missions, security operations & high-risk environments. 🔥Key Topics The biggest mistake in security: Assuming danger looks obvious and how distraction increases vulnerability Why mobile phones are the most stolen items and how distraction impacts situational awareness Practical steps to improve situational awareness and make it second nature The challenges in UK society regarding security mindset and the importance of proactive learning Insights into security training: Customization, realism, and the pitfalls of tick-box courses The significance of military experience in security roles and the brain drain from armed forces The potential for ex-military personnel to transform civilian security industry and gap in industry standards Emergency responses, active shooter training, and how to prepare for critical situations The importance of collaboration between military skills and civilian enterprise for national security How to assess vulnerabilities on private and corporate properties and implement cost-effective security measures 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts Resources & Links: Hawks & Co - https://www.hawkesandco.uk/ Hero Paws - https://heropaws.org.uk/

    SAS & MI5 Secrets: How to Stay Safe in a Dangerous World | Situational Awareness!
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Welcome to The Westies & Besties Podcast — the show that celebrates everything wonderful about West Highland White Terriers and the people who adore them! Hosted by Alex Griffin and Kim Latham, we bring you heartwarming stories, expert advice, and real-life experiences from Westie guardians, breeders, vets, groomers, and rescue heroes around the world. Whether it’s health tips, training insights, hilarious tales of mischief, or inspiring rescue journeys, every episode is packed with Westie love and laughter. Join us as we shine a spotlight on this cheeky, charming, and endlessly loyal little breed — and the incredible community that surrounds it. Subscribe and be part of the world wide Westies & Besties family — because life’s simply better with a Westie by your side!

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