insPAWed

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Tanya Allen of Scoop Savvy to share the story of Dillon, her beloved "Super Mutt," and the lessons his incredible resilience has taught her. Two years ago, Dillon was diagnosed with ITP. Since then, he has faced an ongoing battle that included two frightening relapses where Tanya nearly lost him. But through it all, Dillon kept fighting. Watching his s...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Sarah Shechtman to share how a Shih Tzu Poodle named Cashew helped her see a new path for her life. Sarah welcomed Cashew in 2021 during a difficult time when she was questioning what her next chapter would look like. She was deep into a career in performing and higher education admissions that was burning her out. From the moment Cashew was placed in...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with AJ Cullen, founder of Autism Barks, to explore how her personal connection to the autism community and her love of dogs came together to inspire a meaningful purpose. AJ has been involved in the autism community since 2006. In 2008, she began working with her late therapy dog, Cinderella "Ella," who was also AJ's emotional support animal....

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Sarah Power to share the remarkable story of Clara, a former street dog from Texas whose journey from fear to trust changed both of their lives. Sarah first met Clara in 2022 while working at a dog training facility. Clara was extremely fearful of people, and it took months of patience and consistency for Sarah to earn her trust. Two years later, their...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Lindsey Brynjolfsson, founder of Squirrel: A Dog Bistro, to explore how Hops, Barley, and Sasha became part of a journey that ultimately inspired her business. Hops came into Lindsey’s life on the same day her father entered hospice and became her constant companion for the next 10 years. Later, when Barley began experiencing food sensitivities, Lindse...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Michelle Aulson, founder of Goats To Go, to explore how one special fainting goat named Pluto became an unforgettable part of her growing business. Born in 2018, Pluto quickly stood out with his calm personality. While many goats love to jump, Pluto preferred to keep all four feet on the ground, making him the perfect ambassador for goat yoga classes,...

Content Note: This episode includes conversations about cancer, grief, and pet loss. In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Erin Erler, owner of Cakes by Erin, to share the extraordinary bond she shared with her soul dog, Bo. Just months apart, Erin and Bo were both diagnosed with cancer. Throughout Erin's treatments, surgeries, and recovery, Bo never left her side, offering comfort, un...

Content Note: This episode includes a personal conversation about suicide and mental health. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Haley Miller, founder of Soul Dogs Resources, to explore how one rescue dog changed the course of her life. When Haley first met Kahlúa, he was shy and wanted nothing to do with her. After spending hours patiently sitting with hi...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Chuck Chopak of Team Stella to explore how his French Bulldog Stella became a nationally certified therapy dog making a difference throughout the Haverhill community. From the very beginning, Stella and Chuck formed a close bond. Because Stella had not yet completed her vaccinations when she first came home, Chuck carried her everywhere in a front slin...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Lin O’Neil-Clark of LinSynergy to explore how her soul dog Roo helped reshape her priorities, purpose, and path during one of life’s most challenging seasons. As Roo aged and developed Sundowners, Lin faced a difficult decision between returning fully to work or being present for her beloved companion during her final years. Lin chose Roo. That decisio...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Michael Mulkern of Mulkern Ventures LLC to explore how his dog Benji inspired both a pet wellness brand and a children’s book. Benji, a beloved Cavapoo and Michael’s best friend, became the inspiration behind Benji’s Blend, a CBD pet line created with the goal of supporting pets through wellness-focused products. Benji also became one of the main chara...

What started as one woman and her dog in New York City turned into a nationwide movement built on connection, community, and joy. In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Susan Godwin, founder of PupScouts Org, to share how her first dog, Tasha, became the inspiration behind a 501(c)(3) organization with troops across the country. When Susan moved to NYC, Tasha was more than a pet. She was he...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Jodi Burgett, creator of the Holistic Pet Hub, to explore how her dogs Otis and Otto inspired her path and purpose. What began as a desire to better understand her dogs’ health challenges led Jodi to question the products, food, and ingredients many pet parents trust. With a background in functional medicine, she began researching pet products through...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Wendy Berry, founder of Ratology, to explore how a real-life challenge led her to build a natural rodent control business. What began with a rat problem on her farm turned into a purpose-driven solution using working dogs as a natural alternative to traditional methods. Wendy recognized the natural instinct in her dogs and encouraged it, leading to a u...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Deb Madera of Ellie Mental Health to explore how her dog Molly plays a meaningful role in mental health counseling through animal-assisted therapy. Molly is more than a companion. She is part of the therapeutic experience, helping create a safe and calming environment for clients. Through her presence, she supports connection, comfort, and emotional op...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Pamela Pearson, founder of Thank God for Dogs, to explore how her rescue Bernedoodle, Kismet, became the catalyst for building a therapy dog nonprofit. Kismet’s presence inspired a mission centered on bringing comfort, connection, and healing through therapy dogs. What began as the bond between one woman and her dog has grown into an organization dedic...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Anissa Poirier, founder of Pawsitively Hooked on Enrichment, to explore how her rescue dog Charlie inspired her path and purpose. After adopting Charlie in 2022, Anissa quickly saw his anxiety and need for engagement. A trainer introduced enrichment work, sparking an idea that combined creativity with care. As a lifelong crafter, Anissa began designing...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Patti Anastasia, founder of Your Animal Healer, LLC, to explore the profound connection she shares with her beloved rescue dog, Ladybug. Ladybug, Patti’s “Georgia Peach” and heart dog, is more than a companion. She is a spiritual partner and co-facilitator in healing sessions, helping to bring comfort, clarity, and connection to those they serve. Toget...

In this episode of insPAWed, we sit down with Dr. Jacob Held, veterinarian, children’s book author, and founder of Prescription of Fiction, to explore how his dog Fidelis, known as Fidey, inspired his path and purpose. Through his work, Dr. Held introduces families to the veterinary profession while teaching children how to properly care for their pets, rooted in real experience and compassion. In...

Welcome to insPAWED, I’m Cyndie, producer and host, alongside my co-host Nigel. In this episode, you’ll learn why this channel was started, the mission behind insPAWed, and more about Cyndie & Nigel. Each episode, you can expect to hear five core questions and one bonus question called “Spill the Treats.” 1. Tell us about the pet who insPAWed your business or purpose? 2. What moment made you r...