

The Everyday Trainer Podcast
Meghan Dougherty
Join Meg, a Pet Dog Trainer in Orlando Florida, as she chats about all things dogs. From training tools and techniques to mindfulness and habit formation, Meg's got all the insight you need to help you form a better relationship with your dog.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 20, 2024 • 57min
Blending Passion and Business: Insights from our Dog Training Retreat
We just wrapped up our first ever dog training leadership retreat and I've got a lot to say about it. From creating a sustainable daily routine to building a family of passionate dog trainers, the retreat genuinely changed my life (as I hope it did our participants too). We went on hikes, had family dinners, and set goals- all things that we can integrate into our lives to help us navigate training our own dogs and becoming better people.You know the drill, grab a tasty drink and enjoy the episode.Visit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

Aug 30, 2024 • 1h 5min
Mindfully Training Dogs: Enhancing Canine Behavior Through Owner Mental Health and Meditation
Ever wondered how your mental health can shape your dog's behavior? In this episode, I share my insights on how our state of mind profoundly impacts our pets. Drawing comparisons between the relaxed dogs of Santa Teresa and the more anxious counterparts in the U.S., I uncover the reasons behind these behavioral differences. From cultural interactions to environmental factors, discover how a more balanced and mindful approach can enhance both your life and your dog's well-being.I chat about Thoma and his reactive Malinois, Hawk, and see how a journey of self-improvement led to remarkable transformations in both their lives. Through Thoma's story, learn the pivotal role of owner confidence and calmness in managing reactive dogs. Insights from Cesar Millan and practical tips on leash handling underscore the importance of a composed and assured demeanor while training. This chapter resonates with every dog owner struggling with similar issues, offering a blueprint for success through improved mental states.Lastly, I delve into my personal battles with anxiety and how meditation became my anchor amid academic and career pressures. Drawing parallels between mindfulness and dog training, I reveal how practices like meditation and even psychedelics have deepened my understanding and effectiveness as a dog trainer. Tune in for compelling stories, practical advice, and exciting news about upcoming retreats and training opportunities in California. This episode promises to inspire you to foster a harmonious relationship with your furry friend by nurturing your mental well-being.The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteShopCommunityVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

Aug 23, 2024 • 45min
Rethinking Dog Training: Embracing Natural Instincts for Happier Pets
What if the key to solving your dog's behavioral issues lies not in strict training regimens but in embracing their natural instincts? This week, I share insights from my trip to Costa Rica, where I observed dogs living their best lives, free from leashes and constraints. We'll explore how the culture of treating dogs is evolving, comparing the regimented routines of passionate trainers with the more relaxed approach of everyday dog owners. I also provide updates on exciting upcoming events, including a transformative retreat in Joshua Tree, California, and a virtual shadow program for aspiring trainers.Reflecting on the well-being of dogs in a coastal town, we'll delve into how ample exercise and social interactions can lead to happier, healthier pets. I'll share inspiring stories, like that of a local coffee shop worker whose dog roams freely to the beach and back, highlighting the stark contrast with the more restrictive lifestyles many dogs face in the US.We'll reevaluate traditional dog training methods, advocating for a more holistic approach that prioritizes exposure, exercise, and natural living over mere obedience. From the stress of city living to the vision of going back to pack hikes, I'll share my candid thoughts on professional values and personal mental health. You know the drill, grab a tasty drink and enjoy.The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteShopCommunityVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

Jul 26, 2024 • 60min
How to Build and Scale a Thriving Dog Training Business
Can your dog training business thrive without you? In this episode of the Everyday Trainer podcast, we unpack the essential strategies for running a sustainable dog training business. We kick off by detailing the structure of our virtual shadow program, where you’ll find video courses, training guides, and live feedback sessions designed to elevate your skills. Next, we explore the shifting trends towards in-home dog training and small business setups. Join me as I recount my journey from a dog walker to a successful dog trainer, sharing key lessons learned and the importance of recognizing your strengths to avoid burnout. Discover the benefits of a business model that isn’t overly reliant on one individual, ensuring your business can thrive even when you're not around. We also emphasize the importance of setting clear goals and building a personalized, flexible approach to dog training.We wrap up with a deep dive into the logistics of scaling your business effectively. Hear firsthand how hiring administrative help can streamline your operations, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Whether you're curious about establishing an LLC for legal protection or looking for inspiration from our future plans, including exciting seminars and retreats, this episode offers a wealth of tips to help you grow your dog training venture sustainably. Grab yourself a tasty drink and enjoy.The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteShopCommunityVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

Jul 19, 2024 • 57min
Calm minds, calm dogs: How our state of mind can influence our dog training
Ever wondered how your state of mind can transform your dog training outcomes? I recount my personal story of working with anxious and reactive dogs, and how their behavior mirrored the emotions around them. Let's dive into the benefits of mindfulness and meditation for managing stress and anxiety, both in humans and dogs. Inspired by Dan Harris' journey, I delve into breath-focused meditation and its impact on mental well-being. Through personal anecdotes, I highlight how maintaining a calm and confident demeanor can help your dog feel more secure. You know the drill, grab a tasty drink and enjoy.The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteShopCommunityVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

Jul 12, 2024 • 50min
Balanced dog training: The importance of corrections and communication
Ever wondered if force-free dog training methods might actually be contributing to your pet's anxiety? Today, we're peeling back the layers on this controversial topic and challenging popular narratives. We explore the necessity of both rewards and punishments in effective dog training. By focusing on the use of corrections, especially in social behaviors, we discuss how this balanced approach can create a more harmonious relationship with your dog.Leadership isn't just about commands; it’s about communication and understanding natural canine behavior. Join us as we unravel the importance of morning routines and adequate exercise to maintain your dog's mental well-being. We delve into how a balanced training approach, which includes corrections, mirrors natural canine interactions and prevents reactivity. Through practical examples like leash pops and e-collar taps, we illustrate how physical consequences can teach dogs what not to do, while positive reinforcement encourages good behavior.Lastly, we make a compelling case for the distinction between obedience training and social behavior correction. Obedience commands are helpful but not natural for dogs; they need social corrections to avoid undesirable behaviors. Learn how clear communication and appropriate corrections can help dogs make better decisions autonomously. We argue that avoiding corrections can lead to lifelong management issues and that a balanced approach is crucial for effective training. Tune in and discover how to foster a harmonious relationship with your canine companion through balanced training techniques. You know the drill, grab yourself a tasty drink and enjoy.The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteCommunityShopViva RawVirtual Shadow ProgramTraining RetreatOrlando August SeminarVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

Jul 5, 2024 • 54min
Valuing your values: life updates + aligning yourself as a dog trainer and owner
Hey folks and welcome back. This week we're talking all about values and how to align yourself with the life you want to live, whether that's in how you live with your dog, the business you run, or the trainers you choose to work with.When you get clear on your values, you'll be able to bring that with you to help you make the best decisions- leading to less frustration and burnout and drive you towards the life you dream of.I'm sharing life updates and what's going on here at the dog house and the future of the everyday trainer. I'll chat about the awesome events we have going on soon and how you can join my little community of compassionate and supportive dog owners + trainers.Grab a tasty drink and enjoy!The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteCommunityShopViva RawVirtual Shadow ProgramTraining RetreatOrlando August SeminarVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

May 31, 2024 • 58min
Embodying balance as a trainer: How to show up for dogs + people
Hey y'all. This week is one for the fellow trainers. Whether you're a professional trainer and work with tons of clients and dogs or you're just a trainer to your personal dog, it's important for us to be able to embody balance in our lives so we can show up as the best version of ourselves.We all know dog training is so much more than just training- it's about showing up as a calm, confident leader. To do that, we have to take care of ourselves first.In this episode, we chat about how you can integrate self-care and mindfulness practices into your daily routines, how to not take things too personally, how to always lead with compassion and show much more. All things that will lead to intentional communication and less burn out. You know the drill, grab yourself a tasty drink and enjoy.If you're interested in joining our September Leadership Retreat follow the link HEREVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

May 17, 2024 • 56min
The first week of puppyhood- how to stay sane and create a confident adult dog
You did it. You got a puppy. Or maybe, you're thinking of getting a puppy. Good luck sifting through the copious amounts of content out there, all promising you the perfect pup. I'm here to make things simple for you. In the world of dog training, puppyhood is often overcomplicated and can lead to failure with the basics (you know, like your dog not pooping in your house). After years of experience raising puppies, my own and clients, I've come up with the simplest yet most effective skills to focus on the first week home with you. You know the drill, grab yourself a tasty drink and enjoy.The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteCommunityShopViva RawVirtual Shadow ProgramTraining RetreatVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.

Apr 19, 2024 • 1h 6min
5 things you're probably doing wrong with your dog
As a trainer with over 6 years of experience working with owners here are the 5 things I see that are causing behavioral issues in our dogs. From excessive affection to letting your dog pull you up to other dogs, try to avoid these things to prevent problems. Trust me, I'm a trainer. As always, grab yourself a tasty drink and enjoy.The Everyday TrainerInstagramWebsiteCommunityShopViva RawVirtual Shadow ProgramTraining RetreatVisit us on the website here to see what we've got going on and how you can join our pack of good dogs and owners.


