Best Clicker Training Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 273: I Guess I'm Gonna Do Fish Stuff (with Melissa Paynter, Georgia Aquarium) 38:52

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1d ago38:52

38:52

You KNOW we love talking about training animals that people don't always think of when they think about animal training, so we are thrilled to welcome Melissa Paynter to the show! Mel shares the path that took her from the Moorpark Program to her current role as Assistant Curator of Ocean Journey at Georgia Aquarium, why fish training right now is …

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Episode 134 - the come-in whistle, ticks and canine pregnancy 21:10

2d ago21:10

21:10

🙃 Text me (Jo) at Hold the Line 🙃 This is a ramble of an episode (both subject-wise and literally) covering ticks, the come-in whistle on retrieves and early canine pregnancy.By Jo Laurens

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4:10 - How to Play With Your Cat: Tips from Animal Behaviorist Mikel Delgado 1:04:53

5d ago1:04:53

1:04:53

Think you know how to play with your cat? 🐾 You might be surprised! In this episode, I chat with cat behaviorist Dr. Mikel Delgado, author of the new book Play With Your Cat, all about the right way to play — and why it’s one of the most important things you can do for your cat’s physical and mental health. We talk about the science behind play, ho…

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From Chaos to Calm: Life Hacks for Dog People 31:38

5d ago31:38

31:38

In this episode, Nikki shares practical life hacks you can start using today to help your dog navigate tough situations—like greeting guests, encountering scary objects, and decompressing after a stressful day. She also explains how talking to your dog like you would a three-year-old can make a big difference.…

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Can we build 'giving a break' into a reinforcer 25:42

6d ago25:42

25:42

As humans we might perceive many reinforcers in our world from edible delicacies to buying new clothes but often we feel limited with finding different reinforcers for our horses. This is a hypothetical discussion about using a 'time to relax' or 'giving a break' as a reinforcer. https://www.equine.training/my-courses/ for my courses.…

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Episode 272: If You Want Them To Care, They First Have To Know You Care (with Dan Blair) 43:57

9d ago43:57

43:57

Chris and Ari are thrilled to be joined on the show by NEI Alumnus Dan Blair! Dan catches us up on his current zoo role as Curator of Birds, and shares his thoughts on the two kinds of respect, what's surprised him most about transitioning from the role of animal trainer to curator, the unique challenge of being brought in as a new cog in an existi…

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Toothless & Tail-Waggers: What Dragons Teach Us About Dogs 40:42

11d ago40:42

40:42

What does a fire-breathing dragon have in common with your sock-stealing dog? More than you’d think! In this episode, we dive into the surprisingly deep dog training wisdom hidden in How to Train Your Dragon. From building trust to working with fear and frustration, Toothless and Hiccup show us that successful relationships—whether with dragons or …

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Chirag Patel Unpacks the Bucket Game & His Behavioural Philosophy [Episode 257] 1:02:55

12d ago1:02:55

1:02:55

In this episode of the Animal Training Academy podcast, we are honoured to welcome back Chirag Patel - an internationally acclaimed behaviour and training consultant whose innovative work spans species, continents, and disciplines. Chirag is perhaps best known for creating the Bucket Game and for his deep commitment to ethical, science-based, coope…

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Episode 271: Happy Jamón Day! (with the Bird and Mammal Team, St. Augustine Alligator Farm) 53:40

17d ago53:40

53:40

Are SEVEN people too many to have on a podcast?? Not when it's the Bird and Mammal Team from the St. Augustine Alligator Farm! Chris and Ari are joined by Hannah Caster, Jessie Stull, Jordan Hoover, Ramon Castillo, and Shelby McBride to talk about what makes up a cohesive team, the unsung role of the swing keeper, and figuring out the best ways to …

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Episode 133 - Trying to time a breeding (aka the right stuff, in the right place, at the right time) 35:36

18d ago35:36

35:36

🙃 Text me (Jo) at Hold the Line 🙃 In this episode, I recount our incredibly stressful race against the clock to get the right stuff, in the right place, at the right time. Phew.By Jo Laurens

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4:9 - Keeping Your Cat Cool on Summer Adventures 13:51

19d ago13:51

13:51

Adventuring with your cat in the summer can be fun — but it also comes with serious safety risks. In this episode, I’m sharing essential tips for keeping your cat cool during outdoor adventures in hot weather. You’ll learn how to prevent overheating and heat exhaustion, how to recognize the early signs of overheating and heat stroke in cats, and wh…

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Teenage Mutts: Hormones, Havoc & Growing Pains 40:43

19d ago40:43

40:43

In this episode, Nikki and Britteny dive into the rollercoaster ride of canine adolescence. From sudden selective hearing to explosive energy and emotional outbursts, we explore how hormones shape your young dog’s behavior—and how to survive it with your sanity (and bond) intact. Learn what’s normal, what’s not, and how to guide your pup through th…

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Episode 270: The Portal, The Tube, and The Assisted Lift (with Anaka Nazareth, National Aquarium) 45:22

25d ago45:22

45:22

Chris and Ari are joined by fellow training enthusiast Anaka Nazareth, Behavioral Husbandry Coordinator at the National Aquarium! Anaka shares the path that took her from America to Austria (a few times) before settling back on the East Coast and eventually into her current role in Baltimore, where she oversees the training of a lot of our favorite…

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Episode 132 - working tests (the good, the bad, the ugly) 16:31

25d ago16:31

16:31

🙃 Text me (Jo) at Hold the Line 🙃 What are the pros and cons of working tests?By Jo Laurens

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The Enrichment Equation: More Than Just Toys 30:20

26d ago30:20

30:20

In this episode, we dive into what truly makes enrichment meaningful for dogs. It’s not just about keeping them busy—it’s about meeting their mental, emotional, and physical needs in a thoughtful way. We explore how to go beyond squeaky toys and food puzzles to create activities that align with your dog’s instincts, personality, and breed traits. W…

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Juliana DeWillems: Finding Fulfillment and Avoiding Burnout in Dog Training [Episode 256] 58:00

27d ago58:00

58:00

In this first installment of a two-part conversation, we welcome Juliana DeWillems - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant, Karen Pryor Academy faculty member, and founder of JW Dog Training - for a deeply honest and empowering discussion. Juliana shares her unique journey into the world of animal training - from event planning at a humane society to d…

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Episode 269: The "Ponies, Sparkles, and Rainbows" Side of HR (with Dr Taylor Gilley, Houston Zoo) 41:05

30d ago41:05

41:05

Chris is joined by NEI's new (but also not really new) Director of Staff Development, Training, and Shows - Ari Bailey - to welcomes Dr Taylor Gilley back to the show! Taylor shares the path that took her from the education world to her current role as Director of Staff Learning and Development at Houston Zoo, and guides us through a great conversa…

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4:8 - Catification 101: Enriching Your Home for Your Cats with Kate Benjamin 44:43

1M ago44:43

44:43

What is catification — and why is it so important for your cat’s health and happiness? In this episode, I’m joined by Kate Benjamin, catification expert and founder of Hauspanther, to talk all about creating enriching spaces for your cats. We discuss what catification really means, why it matters for your cat’s physical and mental well-being, and h…

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Episode 268: A Podcast About A Podcast (Radical Candor's "Leading Through Chaos With Stephanie Chung") 38:37

1M ago38:37

38:37

In another in our series of podcasts about other podcasts, Ari and Chris share their thoughts on a recent episode of the Radical Candor podcast with Kim Scott, featuring their guest Stephanie Chung. Chris recently started reading her book "Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You," which gets a great overview in the podcast, and giv…

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From Pup to Punk: Growing Pains in Dogs 36:38

1M ago36:38

36:38

Remember that sweet little puppy who used to hang on your every word? Yeah… they’ve been replaced by a moody teenager with selective hearing and way too much energy. Welcome to canine adolescence! In this episode, we’re talking all about the “teen phase” of dog hood—the chaos, the confusion, and the comical moments that come with it. We’ll break do…

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Tom Candy on Burnout, Boundaries & Breakthroughs in Shelter Work [Episode 255] 1:01:51

1M ago1:01:51

1:01:51

In this continuation of our two-part series, Tom Candy returns to the Animal Training Academy Podcast to dive even deeper into the complex, emotional, and incredibly impactful world of shelter and rescue behavior work. As a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviorist and founder of Simplifying Shelter Behaviour, Tom brings over 15 years of experience in …

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Episode 131 - marking vs steadiness and moving recalls off the long-line 28:31

1M ago28:31

28:31

🙃 Text me (Jo) at Hold the Line 🙃 This episode is an outdoor ramble (verbally and physically!)....By Jo Laurens

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Episode 267: Observe, Interpret, Improve (with Joey Golden, Maryland Zoo) 50:44

2M ago50:44

50:44

Ari and Chris are back together and excited to be joined by Joey Golden, Curator of Animal Behavior Programs at Maryland Zoo! Chris and Joey both attended the recent ABMA and ISZAW conferences, and we wanted to bring him on to chat about the great presentations he gave about his zoo's progress towards "24/7 welfare" for all their animals. We chat a…

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4:7 - What We Wish We Knew Before Adventuring with Our Cats: Lessons from Trailblazers 14:12

2M ago14:12

14:12

In this special episode, members of the KittyCatGO Trailblazers community share the things they wish they had known when they first started training and adventuring with their cats — plus the lessons they learned the hard way. From training mistakes to gear fails and mindset shifts, these real stories and reflections will help you start smarter and…

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Paws and Play: Strengthening Your Bond Through Fun 25:44

2M ago25:44

25:44

In this episode, Nikki answers a listener’s question about impulse control and shares practical tips for helping your dog develop better self-regulation. She also dives into the often-overlooked importance of having fun with your dog. Tune in for a thoughtful blend of behavior insights and playful encouragement! dogspeak101.com dogspeakgeek.thinkif…

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Episode 266: Pursue Your Calling! (with Scott Trauger, Supervisor Emeritus, Natural Encounters, Inc.) 32:04

2M ago32:04

32:04

While Chris is away at the International Symposium for Zoo Animal Welfare in Chicago, Ari is hosting solo—but she’s not alone! She’s joined by former (but also still current) NEI teammate Scott Trauger, who shares what life has been like since he made the big leap to follow his passion outside the animal field. From spreadsheets to showtunes, hear …

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Building Better Bonds: Nikki Talks Dog Training & the Path of Least Resistance – KIENO Conference Replay 27:46

2M ago27:46

27:46

Missed Nikki’s KIENO Conference Interview? Catch It Here! If you didn’t catch Nikki’s online interview with Holly Tett from Paws Up Dogs at the KIENO Conference, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this episode, Nikki revisits the concept of the Path of Least Resistance—a theme she’s touched on before, but one that’s always worth repeating. She d…

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Tom Candy on Simplifying Shelter Behaviour: From Stress to Success [Episode 254] 51:18

2M ago51:18

51:18

In this first installment of a two-part conversation,, we welcome Tom Candy—Certified Clinical Animal Behaviorist and founder of Simplifying Shelter Behaviour—for an engaging discussion that dives deep into the realities, challenges, and opportunities within the world of shelter and rescue animal care. With over 15 years of experience in the field,…

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Episode 265: Using Communities to Create Opportunities 43:13

2M ago43:13

43:13

Ari catches us up on her time at Croc School before our hosts tackle an email asking for ideas about how to create opportunities in the professional animal care field for yourself when 1) you've moved somewhere where the immediately employment opportunities might be limited - or non-existent - or 2) you've taken a temporary break from the field and…

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4:6 - Vets Explain Disease Prevention for Adventure Cats 49:11

2M ago49:11

49:11

Taking your cat outdoors? 🐾 It’s important to understand the health risks — and how to prevent them. In this episode, I’m joined by two veterinarians from the EveryCat Health Foundation to talk about the most common diseases your cat might be exposed to when outdoors. We cover which illnesses to watch out for, how they’re transmitted, what vaccines…

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Ground Rules: Dig Zones for Dirt-Loving Dogs 18:52

2M ago18:52

18:52

Does your dog treat your backyard like a construction site? In this episode we’re laying down the ground rules—literally! Learn how to channel your pup’s natural digging instincts in a fun and positive way by creating designated dig zones. We’ll dig into why dogs love to excavate, how to build a dig-friendly space in your yard, and training tips to…

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Episode 264: What Does It Mean To "Prioritize Training"? (Live from the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference) 35:26

2M ago35:26

35:26

Ari Bailey is busy doing cool reptile stuff at Croc School at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, so Chris takes the opportunity to share the audio from his presentation, "What Does It Mean to 'Prioritize Training'?" from last week's ABMA Annual Conference! He shares some antecedent and consequence conditions that he's seen great teams utilize to mak…

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Special Guest: Ness Jones discusses Separation Anxiety 53:55

2M ago53:55

53:55

Ness Jones is a Certified Separation Anxiety Pro Behavior Consultant (Cert. SAPBC) and runs an international program successfully working remotely with clients around the world. Ness has a number of other qualifications, but it is the separation anxiety certification that means the most to her, knowing there are many dog trainers attempting to res…

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Applying Behavioral Science to Everyday Training with Dr. Keira Moore [Episode 253] 48:09

2M ago48:09

48:09

Podcast Synopsis In this insightful episode of the Animal Training Academy Podcast, Dr. Keira Moore returns for part two of our thought-provoking discussion on behavior analysis, radical behaviorism, and the intersection of science and practice in both human and animal training. With her extensive background as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (B…

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Episode 130 - tips for advancing water work 27:22

2M ago27:22

27:22

🙃 Text me (Jo) at Hold the Line 🙃 Here are some useful tips for moving onto marks and then blinds across water.By Jo Laurens

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Episode 263: Zen and the Art of Networking (Live from the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference Zoo Day) 44:26

2M ago44:26

44:26

Chris is LIVE from Zoo Day at the 2025 ABMA Annual Conference in Galveston, Texas! Whilst wandering the grounds of our host facility, Moody Gardens, we chat with Chase Alsup from the Colorado State University Zoo, Aquarium, and Animal Shelter Management Graduate Program, Rae Simmons and Aubrey Wilson from the Moorpark College Animal Care and Traini…

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Is Clicker Training the Way to Train Your Dog? 24:40

2M ago24:40

24:40

In this episode, Nikki introduces the clicker, along with the rules she likes to follow, and how you can use it to train your dog. Follow along on our social media channels to watch videos of Nikki using the clicker with Willow. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter so you don't miss out on exclusive offers to DogSpeak Geeks. Sign up here. dogspeak…

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4:5 - Get the Gear! 10 Essential Cat Adventure Accessories 13:30

2M ago13:30

13:30

In this solo episode, I dive into my top 10 must-have cat adventure gear and accessories that every cat parent needs for safe and successful outings. I explain why each item is essential—from harnesses and carriers to treats and toys—and share my personal product recommendations. 🔗 Resources mentioned in episode: Article - Cat Backpack or Stroller:…

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Episode 262: A Feedback Loop About Feedback Loops 39:31

3M ago39:31

39:31

Chris is in the editing (and possibly scrapping-and-starting-over) phase of his upcoming ABMA workshop "Your Feedback Loop: Evolving the Way We Give Feedback to Peers," so he decided to reach out to one of the smartest feedbackers around - Ari Bailey - and see how their notes compared when she was given the assignment to jot down what she considere…