Dog Works Radio Shows

In this episode of Dog Works Radio, Robert Forto interviews Sam Spoto, an ER veterinary professional who now works in the pet insurance world. Sam shares how years in emergency medicine shaped the way she thinks about insurance, unexpected vet bills, and the tough decisions dog owners are forced to make when money and medical care collide. Listeners will learn when pet insurance makes sense, why timing is crucial, and how to avoid surprises hidden in the fine print of a policy. What we talk about Sam's background in ER veterinary medicine and how she moved into the insurance side What she saw families struggle with most in the emergency room The real purpose of pet insurance (and what it's not meant to do) Why enrolling your dog while they're young and healthy matters How pre-existing conditions are defined and why they're such a sticking point How much families are typically asked to put down before treatment in an emergency Practical questions to ask before you pick a policy How to talk to y

On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: Separation Anxiety Tips for Dogs of All Ages Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

Everyone's a dog trainer these days, or at least, that's what social media makes it look like. But long before the hashtags, flashy reels, and influencer trainers, Alaska Dog Works was already out in the snow and mud, helping families build lasting relationships with their dogs. In this episode, Michele Forto reflects on more than three decades in the dog training world and what that kind of experience really teaches you. From pre-internet clients to pandemic-era challenges, she shares how consistency, structure, and leadership have always been the foundation of effective training, regardless of what's trending online. In This Episode: The early days of dog training before social media How the pandemic changed the industry overnight What 3,000+ dogs have taught Michele about human behavior Why structure actually gives your dog more freedom Four timeless lessons every dog owner should know Why Listen If you've ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice online or wondered what separates real traine

What if your dog came when called every single time—not because you had a treat, but because they wanted to? In this episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele Forto reveals the three foundational keys to a truly well-trained dog that every handler can use: Win your dog's mind:  build focus and trust Motivate your dog: make obedience exciting Encourage the right behavior: reward what you want to see again You'll also hear real-life success stories from Alaska Dog Works programs like the Lead Dog Service Dog Training and Peak Performance Membership, where families, therapy dog handlers, and service dog trainers learn how to go beyond obedience into partnership. Tune in and learn how to turn training sessions into confident teamwork. Visit AlaskaDogWorks.com to schedule a strategy call today. Suggested internal links to add in the episode blog post: Lead Dog Service Dog Training Program DAWGS Therapy Dog Program The Pack Membership Dog Works Radio Homepage Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:  

On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: the Arctic Puppy Foundation Program at Alaska Dog Works Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: Mental Stimulation Games for Dogs Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

In this heartfelt episode of Dog Works Radio, host Robert Forto reconnects with long-time friend and author Dorothy Wills-Raftery, known to many as the FiveSibes Mom. Together they discuss her touching new children's book Wolfie, What Is the Rainbow Bridge? a gentle story written with her grandson to help children understand the loss of a beloved pet. Dorothy shares the real-life inspiration behind Wolfie, the emotional bond between her grandson and their Siberian Huskies, and how writing and illustration became a form of healing. The conversation also explores her ongoing work in canine epilepsy awareness, pet loss support, and her award-winning books like What's Wrong with Gibson and Buddy the Christmas Husky. Learn more about Dorothy's work: Blog: FiveSibes.blogspot.com Facebook: FiveSibes: Siberian Husky Canine News & Reviews Instagram: @FiveSibesMom APLB Pet Loss Resources: aplb.org Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production stu

In this bonus episode, of The Bark. Nicole and Michele Forto dive deeper into task training for service dogs. 

On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: Decompression in Dogs Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

In this episode, host Michele Forto breaks down one of the most misunderstood aspects of service dog training: the belief that task training is enough. At Alaska Dog Works, Michele explains why obedience and tasks are just the beginning, and how the real magic happens when dog and handler become a unified, emotionally aligned team. You’ll learn: Why task training alone can fall short in real-world environments How to build confidence and emotional connection with your dog The unique challenges of training service dogs in Alaska Why the handler’s mindset is just as important as the dog’s obedience How the Lead Dog Service Dog Training Program helps teams thrive together Listen now to understand why the bond between handler and service dog is the missing piece of true independence. Suggested internal links to add in the episode blog post: Lead Dog Service Dog Training Program DAWGS Therapy Dog Program The Pack Membership Dog Works Radio Homepage Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equip

On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: How Do I Motivate My Dog? Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

In this powerful interview, host Robert Forto sits down with Robin Lucas, President of Rebel Rescue South Korea, to talk about how one woman’s mission turned a struggling Korean shelter into a global rescue organization. Discover how she transformed a 300-dog rescue in Pyeongtaek into a thriving nonprofit, what life is like for Jindo mixes in Korea, and how her team is bridging cultural gaps between American adopters and Korean volunteers. Robin shares how she manages Rebel Rescue from Texas, the challenges of rehoming dogs across continents, and the story of Hotch, a Jindo mix waiting for his forever home. Whether you’re a dog lover, trainer, or rescue advocate, this episode offers inspiration from the frontlines of international animal welfare. Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and mo

On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses: Why Does My Dog Only Listen to Me?  Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

In this bonus Q&A episode of Dog Works Radio, Robert and Michele discuss the logistical hurdles faced with trying to deliver a service dog to a remote town in Alaska that is off of the road sytem.  Have an idea for The Bark? Please submit it here: Dog Works Radio Episode Idea  Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free

Most families hesitate to start dog training for three reasons: cost, time, and that spouse who says, “We don’t need it.” In this episode, Michelle Forto of Alaska Dog Works breaks down each objection and shows why they don’t hold up. You’ll learn how training saves money, gives you time back, and creates harmony at home. If you’ve ever put off training your dog, this conversation will change the way you see it. Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Michele Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to

On this episode of One Minute Dog Training Tips, Nicole Forto discusses getting your dog ready for the cold weather ahead.  Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog Works Radio and is hosted by Nicole Forto. If you enjoy the show, I'd love for you to leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast app! And please let your friends and other podcasters know they can listen for free on Spotify and Apple Podcasts

In this bonus Q&A, Robert Forto shares his firsthand experiences visiting Rebel Rescue in South Korea. From the resilience of dogs rescued from farm conditions, such as Scooby, to the cultural divide between dogs as family pets versus guardians, this episode explores how rescue culture is evolving as Korea prepares to ban dog meat farms in 2027. Listeners will learn what U.S. trainers can gain from Korean approaches and why the future of dog culture in Asia is shifting fast. Key Themes: Cultural differences in dog ownership (family vs guardian). The upcoming 2027 ban on dog meat farms. The resilience of Scooby, a rescued farm dog. What U.S. trainers can learn from Korean rescues. Links: alaskadogworks.com, dogworksradio.com, Rebel Rescue interview with Sarah Jung We encourage listeners to subscribe, join The Pack™, and share the episode.   Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones

In this bonus Q&A episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele and Nicole Forto digs deeper into the message behind Stop Looking for Shortcuts: Your Dog Deserves Better. She shares what really happens when families hit the “messy middle” of adolescence, why shortcuts set both owners and dogs up for failure, and how lasting transformation comes from consistency, patience, and coaching. If you’ve ever felt stuck in training, this conversation will challenge your mindset and give you a fresh perspective on building a lifelong bond with your dog. Have an idea for The Bark? Please submit it here: Dog Works Radio Episode Idea  Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a smal

In this episode of Dog Works Radio, Dr. Robert Forto sits down with South Korean dog trainer Sarah Jung of Rebel Rescue to explore the evolving dog culture in Korea. From her journey learning positive training methods in the U.S. to her work rehabilitating dogs rescued from farms, like Scooby, a pup with a remarkable story, Sarah shares candid insights into the challenges and hope of giving these dogs a second chance. It’s a conversation about culture, compassion, and the power of training to change lives.  Takeaways Sarah Jung is a dog trainer who focuses on rescue dogs. She learned dog training in the US and brought back positive methods to Korea. The dog culture in Korea is evolving, with more people treating dogs as family. Dog farms in Korea are being phased out, with laws changing in the next two years. Rescue dogs often come with behavioral challenges that require patience and training. Understanding a dog's body language is crucial for successful training and adoption. Scooby's story highlights the

In this episode of Dog Works Radio, Michele Forto takes listeners beyond obedience classes and quick fixes to uncover the true journey of raising a lifelong canine companion. Through real family stories and honest insights, she reveals how lasting transformation happens when training becomes a relationship, not a transaction, between dogs, their people, and ongoing support. If you’ve ever dreamed of a dog that fits seamlessly into your life, this episode shows you how that dream becomes reality. Products We Use for Dog Works Radio My equipment:   • SHURE SM7B Mic • Rodecaster Pro II audio production studio • Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones • Elgato Wave Mic Arm Pro   Recommended resources:   • Captivate.fm podcast hosting, distribution, analytics, and monetization • Keap CRM • Riverside.FM • Hindenburg Pro recording and editing Note: these may contain affiliate links, so I get a small percentage of any product you buy when using my link. Dog Works Radio is a podcast education show brought to you by Dog W