361: Last-Minute AKC NAC Prep
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
In this episode (50:08) The AKC National Agility Championship is finally here! Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or attending your first NAC, this episode is packed with last-minute insights to help you stay focused, execute with confidence, and get the most out of your experience. We’ll discuss mindset, strategy for making the Finals or Challenger Round, and key mental and physical preparation tips. No matter where you finish, the trip is always worth it—let’s get you in the right frame of mind to succeed! You Will Learn How to set realistic expectations and avoid the trap of...
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360: How Handlers Compromise Good Training
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
In this episode (24:35) As handlers, we’ve all been there—our dogs make a mistake, and suddenly, we feel this overwhelming pressure to “fix it” right away. But in our rush to correct the issue, we often sacrifice good training for mediocre training, just to feel like we’ve accomplished something in the moment. In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban each tackle a common mistake handlers make when addressing common training mistakes (yes, that’s a mouthful!). We break down why handlers struggle with these moments and how shifting your mindset can help you prioritize long-term...
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359: Team USA Coach Nancy Gyes Retires
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
In this episode (1:16:07) In this episode, we sit down with Nancy Gyes as she reflects on two decades of coaching the AKC USA World Team at the FCI Agility World Championship. From her experiences as a competitor on the first-ever team in 1996 to leading the U.S. to international success, Nancy shares insights on how the sport has evolved, what it takes to stay competitive globally, and her thoughts on the future of U.S. agility. Plus, find out what’s next for Nancy as she steps down from her role. You Will Learn What it was like competing on the first AKC/USA World Team in 1996. The...
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358: Westminster Masters Agility Championship 2025 with Emily Klarman
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
In this episode, we sit down with Emily Klarman, the newly crowned 2025 Westminster Masters Agility Champion! Emily shares her experience competing on one of the biggest stages in the sport, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at the Finals which was aired LIVE on Fox. You Will Learn Insights into the course design and how it compared to previous years. The impact of the surface on handling and performance. How the venue setup (including those huge poles!) affected the competition. The energy of the crowd and how it influences the dogs. Mentioned
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357: Preparation Checklist for Big Events
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (18:38) Big events bring excitement, pressure, and the opportunity to showcase all your hard work. But success doesn’t just happen—it’s the result of solid preparation, both physically and mentally. In this episode, we break down the key strategies that will set you up for success at major competitions, from learning the rules to fine-tuning your mental game. You Will Learn How to analyze event rules and judge tendencies to avoid surprises on competition day. Why studying past courses and running them in training gives you a competitive...
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356: Should You Specialize?
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
In this episode (38:55) In this episode, we tackle a listener’s question: Can you excel in more than one agility venue? Specialization vs. versatility is a hot topic in dog sports, and we dive into the pros and cons of focusing on a single organization versus competing across multiple venues. You Will Learn How Jennifer Crank was selected to her high school’s Hall of Fame. How different agility organizations have distinct course design philosophies and challenges. How major events within a single organization, like the AKC Invitational, Westminster, and AKC FCI Agility World Championship...
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355: Is It Time to Change the Dogwalk?
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (1:18:23) In this episode, we dive into the hottest agility topic on social media right now: the dogwalk. We explore the passionate and diverse opinions within the agility community about whether it’s time to rethink the design of this iconic piece of equipment. Joining us is Mark Bills of Clip and Go Agility, the creator of the 18″ wide dogwalk that’s been making waves on social media. You Will Learn How the agility community feels about changing the dogwalk specifications. Which groups of dogs could benefit from adjustments to the width...
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354: Building Community in Dog Agility
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
In this episode (35:02) In this episode, Sarah, Jennifer, and Esteban explore the importance of community in dog agility. From local clubs to national events, they discuss how fostering connections can enhance your overall experience and help the sport thrive. You Will Learn Why community matters and how it can elevate your training and competition experience. Strategies for connecting with others at trials, classes, and clubs. Tips for creating an inclusive environment that welcomes newcomers and fosters belonging. It’s also okay to just show up and run your dog.
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353: Game Changers in Dog Agility
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
photo credit: Great Dane Photos In this episode (26:39) In this podcast, we explore how trailblazers redefine their fields, using Caitlin Clark’s transformative impact on women’s basketball as a lens to examine innovation in dog agility. From long-range shooting to running contacts, we discuss the creativity and risk-taking that drive progress in sports. You Will Learn How Caitlin Clark’s game is revolutionizing women’s basketball and inspiring the next generation of players. The parallels between sports like basketball and dog agility in fostering innovation and pushing boundaries....
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352: AKC Director Carrie DeYoung Retires
Bad Dog Agility Podcast
In this episode (55:23) Join us as we celebrate the incredible career of Carrie DeYoung, who is retiring after a remarkable tenure as the Director of Agility for the American Kennel Club (AKC). Carrie reflects on her journey, her contributions to the sport, and her hopes for its future. You Will Learn How Carrie DeYoung shaped the landscape of AKC agility over her tenure. The challenges and triumphs she encountered in promoting agility nationwide. Key milestones and initiatives introduced under her leadership. Carrie’s vision for the future of agility sports and the AKC community. Previous...
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In this episode, we explore a powerful quote from an Olympian about the delicate balance between wanting success and not needing it for self-worth. We dive into the psychology of high achievement, the importance of resilience, and how to pursue goals without letting them define who you are. This episode will help you rethink what it means to strive for success while keeping your mental and emotional health in check.
You Will Learn
- The difference between wanting success and needing it for validation.
- Why tying your self-worth to achievements can be mentally harmful.
- How to maintain resilience and perspective in the face of failure.
- Why many instructors struggle with poor performances.
Mentioned/Related
- Watch Jemima Montag’s Interview: https://www.facebook.com/realcarrickryan/videos/1695946174525648/
- Bad Dog Agility Goes to Westminster 2016