The Infinite Approach

K9 Optima (Josh Beckler)

The Infinite Approach: Exploring the Spectrum of Dog Trainers Welcome to "The Infinite Approach," a podcast dedicated to the expansive world of dog training, especially those navigating extreme behavioral challenges. Our mission is to delve into the trainer's journey — tracing back to their foundational education, influential mentorships, and recounting their highs and lows. Each episode shines a light on the distinctive genius every trainer possesses, showcasing how varied experiences and approaches can collectively elevate our field. *Why "The Infinite Approach"?* In the realm of dog behavior, there's a spectrum of strategies, solutions, and stories. "The Infinite Approach" encapsulates the idea that there are countless ways to address and modify behavior, with every trainer bringing their own unique methodology to the table. *Core Message:* Variability is inherent in the dog training industry, with its myriad of methodologies, philosophies, and techniques. Rather than getting bogged down by these differences, "The Infinite Approach" champions their diversity. By probing into each trainer's individual perspective, we aim to instill a culture of continual learning and camaraderie. *Our Belief:* Each dog trainer possesses a unique brilliance — an approach or insight that distinguishes them. Celebrating these individualities not only solidifies a united community but also nurtures a perpetual learner's spirit. *Closing Thought:* While there might be countless ways to tackle a challenge in dog training, one thing remains consistent: our collective strength. By intertwining, exchanging, and educating one another, we harness a reservoir of knowledge that greatly benefits our canine companions. On "The Infinite Approach," we're convinced that our united front is our most treasured asset. Journey with us as we discover, evolve, and embrace the infinite possibilities together.

  1. 11/23/2024

    Fighting for Justice: Allison Black Cornelius on Animal Welfare, Advocacy, and Systemic Reform

    Episode Description: The Infinite Approach Podcast – My Conversation with Allison Black Cornelius In this deeply impactful episode, I sit down with Allison Black Cornelius, the CEO of the Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) and a nationally respected advocate for human and animal welfare. Before we dive in, I want to give a heads-up—this conversation tackles some graphic and sensitive topics, including the Jeff MacArthur case and systemic issues in handling animal abuse cases. Viewer discretion is advised. Allison brings an incredible breadth of experience to this discussion, from her transformative leadership at GBHS—serving over 20,000 animals annually and running Alabama’s largest free spay/neuter clinic—to her role in shaping policy and advocacy. She shares her insights on the challenges of prosecuting animal abuse, the connection between animal welfare and public safety, and what we can do to create real change. It was an honor to speak with someone who’s been a driving force in both nonprofit leadership and advocacy. Her work has left a significant mark, from writing Megan’s Law and helping establish CASA programs to appearing on platforms like Oprah, Larry King Live, and MSNBC. Allison’s passion and dedication are truly inspiring. This conversation isn’t easy, but it’s important. Together, we dive into the harsh realities and explore actionable steps to push for accountability and better outcomes for animals and their communities. 🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or watch the full video on YouTube. Links & Resources: • Learn more about the Greater Birmingham Humane Society: https://gbhs.org • Connect with Allison Black Cornelius: https://gbhs.org/our-team-1 Direct link to report animal cruelty to GBHS. https://gbhs.org/animal-cruelty-stray

    54 min
  2. Empathy Through Canines: Exploring Dogs Connect with Grant Shannon

    08/09/2024

    Empathy Through Canines: Exploring Dogs Connect with Grant Shannon

    Today, we’re diving into the transformative power of canine companions in educational settings with a special focus on Grant Shannon's groundbreaking program, Dogs Connect. This innovative initiative is designed to foster deeper connections between students and their school environments by integrating wellbeing dogs to enhance emotional literacy and engagement. Grant Shannon's vision for Dogs Connect is rooted in the mission to create emotionally safe and supportive learning environments where students can thrive. By connecting students with specially trained wellbeing dogs, the program not only aims to improve academic engagement but also to nurture emotional resilience and social skills. The goal is to build a school community where every student feels valued, understood, and emotionally connected. This aligns perfectly with the Polyvagal Institute’s focus on creating environments that support emotional regulation and social connection. The partnership between Dogs Connect and the Polyvagal Institute amplifies the program’s impact by integrating cutting-edge research on the nervous system and social engagement, ensuring that the Dogs Connect program is grounded in the latest science of emotional wellbeing. For educators, therapists, and anyone interested in the intersection of education and emotional wellbeing, Grant Shannon’s course at the Polyvagal Institute is an invaluable resource. Dive deeper into the world of Dogs Connect and discover how you can bring this revolutionary approach to your school or community. Don't forget to use our exclusive discount code "Optima" for 15% off when you sign up for the Dogs Connect course at PolyvagalInstitute.com. https://www.facebook.com/dogsconnectaustralia http://dogsconnect.net.au/ Main Website: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org PVI Community App: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/pviapp What is Polyvagal Theory? https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/whatispolyvagaltheory Course: Overview of Polyvagal Theory for the Newly Acquainted https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/overview-of-polyvagal-theory-for-the-newly-acquainted(15% discount code for this course: k9optima) Course: Dogs Connect - Connection, Regulation and Empathy https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/dogs-connect---connection%2C-regulation-and-empathy (15% discount code for this course: DogsConnect15) 9 minute video: Trauma and the nervous system: a polyvagal perspective https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uH5JQDAqA8E

    52 min
  3. Dr. Rebecca Bailey on Polyvagal Theory, Equine Therapy, and Trauma Recovery

    07/25/2024

    Dr. Rebecca Bailey on Polyvagal Theory, Equine Therapy, and Trauma Recovery

    In this episode of  The Infinite Approach, I interview Dr. Rebecca Bailey about her groundbreaking work with Polyvagal Theory in equine therapy and extreme trauma treatment. Dr. Bailey delves into the science of how our nervous system influences our ability to connect and heal, offering insights on how these principles apply to both horses and humans. Whether you're a dog owner, horse trainer, or simply interested in trauma therapy, this episode offers a unique perspective on the profound connections between nervous systems across species. Don't miss this enlightening conversation! Here are the links to the relevant websites for the Polyvagal Institute and Dr. Rebecca Bailey: Polyvagal Institute:   Main Website: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org PVI Community App: https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/pviapp What is Polyvagal Theory? https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/whatispolyvagaltheory Course: Overview of Polyvagal Theory for the Newly Acquainted https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/overview-of-polyvagal-theory-for-the-newly-acquainted(15% discount code for this course: k9optima) Course: Dogs Connect - Connection, Regulation and Empathy https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/dogs-connect---connection%2C-regulation-and-empathy (15% discount code for this course: DogsConnect15) 9 minute video: Trauma and the nervous system: a polyvagal perspective https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uH5JQDAqA8E   Polyvagal Equine Institute: Main Website: https://polyvagalequineinstitute.com

    52 min
  4. 04/11/2024

    Decoding Stress in Dogs: A Deep Dive with Dr. Sophie Liu

    In this enlightening episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Sophie Liu, a renowned vet behaviorist, for a captivating discussion on the science of stress in dogs. Building on the overwhelming positive response from our last conversation, we delve deeper into understanding the complexities of canine stress, its manifestations, and its impact on behavior and training. Dr. Liu shares her expertise on the intricate interplay between pain, stress, anxiety, and their behavioral implications, offering groundbreaking insights into the role of medication in managing stress and enhancing training outcomes. Through the lens of a challenging case study, we explore the profound influence of sensory sensitivities and genetic predispositions on stress responses, highlighting the importance of individualized care and treatment strategies. For dog trainers, this episode offers a treasure trove of knowledge on recognizing and addressing stress-related behaviors, enhancing your ability to tailor training approaches to the unique needs of each dog. Dog owners will gain a deeper understanding of their furry companions, learning to spot signs of stress and how to support their dogs through effective interventions and environmental modifications. Join us as we navigate the complex landscape of canine stress, armed with the latest scientific insights and practical advice from Dr. Liu, to foster a healthier, happier life for our beloved dogs. You can find Sophie Liu's website here https://oaklandcanine.com

    57 min
  5. 03/06/2024

    Interview with Denise Fenzi

    In this inspiring episode of "The Infinite Approach," we sit down with the renowned dog trainer and educator, Denise Fenzi, whose contributions have sculpted the modern landscape of dog training. Denise shares her fascinating journey, spanning over four decades, from the early days of her career to her influential role in promoting positive reinforcement training methods. We delve into the stories behind her passion for dog sports, the evolution of her training philosophy, and the founding of the Fenzi Dog Sports Academy (FDSA), a beacon for trainers and dog enthusiasts worldwide seeking a kinder approach to dog training. Denise offers invaluable insights into the significance of understanding each dog as an individual, the power of positive reinforcement, and the importance of building a deep, meaningful relationship with our canine companions. She also touches on the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from traditional to force-free training methods, emphasizing the impact of empathy, patience, and continuous learning in achieving training success. Listeners will be captivated by Denise's reflections on the creation of the Lemonade Conference, an innovative online event born out of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, aimed at bringing the global dog training community together. Through her stories, Denise highlights the importance of community, inclusivity, and the endless pursuit of knowledge in the ever-evolving field of dog training. Join us in this episode as we explore Denise Fenzi's profound influence on the world of dog training, her dedication to fostering a supportive and educated community, and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of dogs and their humans through compassionate training practices. Whether you're a seasoned trainer, a new dog owner, or somewhere in between, Denise's wisdom and experiences offer something for everyone looking to deepen their understanding and enhance their relationship with their furry friends.

    1h 57m
5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

The Infinite Approach: Exploring the Spectrum of Dog Trainers Welcome to "The Infinite Approach," a podcast dedicated to the expansive world of dog training, especially those navigating extreme behavioral challenges. Our mission is to delve into the trainer's journey — tracing back to their foundational education, influential mentorships, and recounting their highs and lows. Each episode shines a light on the distinctive genius every trainer possesses, showcasing how varied experiences and approaches can collectively elevate our field. *Why "The Infinite Approach"?* In the realm of dog behavior, there's a spectrum of strategies, solutions, and stories. "The Infinite Approach" encapsulates the idea that there are countless ways to address and modify behavior, with every trainer bringing their own unique methodology to the table. *Core Message:* Variability is inherent in the dog training industry, with its myriad of methodologies, philosophies, and techniques. Rather than getting bogged down by these differences, "The Infinite Approach" champions their diversity. By probing into each trainer's individual perspective, we aim to instill a culture of continual learning and camaraderie. *Our Belief:* Each dog trainer possesses a unique brilliance — an approach or insight that distinguishes them. Celebrating these individualities not only solidifies a united community but also nurtures a perpetual learner's spirit. *Closing Thought:* While there might be countless ways to tackle a challenge in dog training, one thing remains consistent: our collective strength. By intertwining, exchanging, and educating one another, we harness a reservoir of knowledge that greatly benefits our canine companions. On "The Infinite Approach," we're convinced that our united front is our most treasured asset. Journey with us as we discover, evolve, and embrace the infinite possibilities together.