This isn’t your sugary, sweet, diabetes-inducing healing podcast. This is Combative Calm—where nervous system regulation meets rage rituals, somatic releases, and spicy affirmations laced with f-bombs to unfck your trauma responses. Hosted by Sarai Speer—a trauma-informed yoga + meditation teacher, somatic healer, and high-energy bitch who tells it like it is—this show delivers real tools, not toxic positivity. It’s trauma-informed, nervous system-rooted healing for the emotionally constipat ...
…
continue reading
Muddy Paws and Hairballs is the no-fluff podcast for pet parents juggling chaos, cuddles, and the quest to live your best life—with your pets, not in spite of them. Host Amy Castro brings real talk, expert pet advice, behavior tips, and humor to help you lead with confidence, ditch the guilt, and raise healthy, happy pets without losing yourself in the process. This show is for the real ones—those knee-deep in fur, vet bills, and “what the heck did you just eat?!” moments. The ones holding i ...
…
continue reading

1
Why No Kill is Failing: The Case for a Smarter Approach to Rescue
53:47
53:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:47The no-kill movement promised to revolutionize animal sheltering by saving lives and ending unnecessary euthanasia. But behind the catchy slogans and glowing statistics, a different reality lurks – one that’s rarely discussed. In this eye-opening conversation with animal welfare expert Daniel Ettinger, we dig deep into the issues plaguing some shel…
…
continue reading

1
For The MF'er Who's Doing TOO MUCH (Affirmations)
7:00
7:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
7:00If you’re doing way too much, running on caffeine and chaos, and low-key spiraling while pretending everything’s fine—this one’s for you. In this fiery kickoff to Combative Calm, Sarai Speer serves you trauma-informed, nervous-system-soothing affirmations that go way deeper than the fluffy Pinterest bullshit. These affirmations are built for the hi…
…
continue reading

1
The Day Rescue Broke Me: A Hard Truth About Helping Too Much
10:45
10:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
10:45I broke down in the middle of a hurricane—sobbing, soaked, and desperately trying to keep my barn from blowing away—while sick kittens cried in a barely-secured shed. That’s when I realized: something had to change. In this raw, no-holds-barred solo episode, I share the story kept quiet for too long—the mental, emotional, and physical toll of being…
…
continue reading

1
Heartworm Prevention Myths That Could Cost Your Pet’s Life
38:06
38:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:06Heartworm Truths Every Pet Owner Needs to Hear with Dr. Zoo 💔 Heartworm disease is slow, painful, and entirely preventable. So why are pets still dying from it? In this essential episode of Muddy Paws and Hairballs, Dr. Zoo shares two real-life cases that hit hard: a young German Shepherd in kidney failure at just two years old after his owners sto…
…
continue reading

1
Feeding Pets, Supporting Families: How PAWSitive Pantry is Fighting Pet Hunger
46:09
46:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:09What if feeding your pet meant you couldn’t feed yourself? For thousands of struggling families, that’s reality—and it’s driving heartbreaking surrenders. But one organization is changing the game. In this episode, Amy Castro talks with Stacey LeBaron, founder of PAWSitive Pantry and host of The Community Cats Podcast, about how her team is tacklin…
…
continue reading

1
Healing the Guilt of Pet Loss: Letting Go Without Regret
53:26
53:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:26Losing a beloved pet is heartbreaking, but for so many of us, grief is tangled up with guilt. Did I do enough? Was it too soon? Too late? Did I fail them? These thoughts can haunt us, making it even harder to heal. I know this feeling all too well. When I had to make the devastating decision to euthanize our 34-year-old rescue horse, Cherokee, I fo…
…
continue reading

1
You’ve Been Lied To: Hairballs Aren't Normal – How to Stop Your Cat’s Vomiting
35:33
35:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:33If you think hairballs are just part of life with cats, think again! Frequent hairballs can signal serious health issues like digestive problems, excessive grooming due to stress or allergies, or even conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and pancreatitis. In this episode of Muddy Paws & Hairballs, veterinarian Dr. Linda Atkins breaks do…
…
continue reading

1
Are You Meeting Your Pet’s REAL Needs? What Every Pet Parent Should Know
44:01
44:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:01Should You Treat Your Pet Like a Child? A Veterinary Psychiatrist on Finding the Right Balance for a Happy, Healthy Pet I used to worry about people who consider their pets their “children”. Was treating them like humans harming them? Were they making them anxious or frustrated by expecting them to be something they’re not? I still worry a little, …
…
continue reading

1
Before You Get a Dog, LISTEN to This! Expert Guidance for Choosing the Right Dog for You
50:28
50:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:28🐾 Thinking about getting a dog? Hold that thought! Before you bring home a pup based on a cute face or a trending breed, let’s talk about what really matters when choosing the right dog for your life. This week on Muddy Paws and Hairballs, I sit down with Pete Campione to expose the biggest mistakes people make when picking a dog—and how to avoid t…
…
continue reading

1
How to Exercise Your Dog Safely (and Prevent Costly Injuries)
40:15
40:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:15🐾 Is Your Dog Getting the Right Amount of Exercise? Or Are They at Risk for Injury? 🦴 Whether your dog is a non-stop zoomer, a weekend warrior, or a laid-back couch cuddler, keeping them fit, active, and injury-free is key to their long-term health. But how do you know when to push them—and when to let them rest? 🤔 In this episode of Muddy Paws and…
…
continue reading

1
Thinking About Getting Goats? The Messy Truth You Need to Hear
51:28
51:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
51:28Thinking about owning goats? Forget the picture-perfect Instagram posts—goat ownership is messy, demanding, and far from easy. In this episode of Muddy Paws and Hairballs, goat expert and homesteader Deborah Niemann debunks common myths and reveals what it really takes to raise happy, healthy goats. We dive into essential topics every prospective g…
…
continue reading

1
Lifesaving Pet First Aid Tips with Master Instructor Arden Moore
41:28
41:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:28🚨 Are you prepared to save your pet in an emergency? Join us for this episode of Muddy Paws and Hairballs with Arden Moore, a master-certified pet first aid and CPR instructor, award-winning author, and the host of two popular pet podcasts, Oh Behave on Pet Life Radio and Four-Legged Life. Arden brings her wealth of knowledge to share essential tip…
…
continue reading

1
Stress-Free Travel and Moving with Cats: Advice from Feline Behavior Specialist LeeAnna Buis
58:06
58:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:06Ready to unlock the secrets to stress-free cat travel? In this episode, we dive into cat-friendly travel tips with Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist LeeAnna Buis, CFTBS, FFCP. If you’ve ever struggled with cat anxiety or wondered how to make car rides smoother, this is your ultimate guide! LeeAnna shares expert advice to help you pr…
…
continue reading

1
From the Vault: Pet Vaccination 101: Expert Insights from Dr. Jeff Grognet
42:09
42:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:09Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #1 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes from 2024! In this episode, holistic veterinarian Dr. Jeff Grognet emphasizes the critical importance of understanding pet vaccinations, including core and non-core vaccines, potential …
…
continue reading

1
From the Vault: Solve the Five Biggest Dog Behavior Problems with Expert Trainer Ruth Hegarty
55:01
55:01
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:01Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #2 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! This episode focuses on addressing the top five dog behaviors that frustrate pet owners and providing actionable strategies to manage them effectively. Through i…
…
continue reading

1
From the Vault: Save on Vet Bills! Expert Advice with Jonathan Wainberg
38:04
38:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:04Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #3 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! This episode dives into the financial options available for pet healthcare, providing actionable insights to help pet parents prepare for unexpected expenses. Jo…
…
continue reading

1
From the Vault: Responsible Rabbit Care Explained: with Marcy Berman, Save-a-Bunny Rescue
1:01:39
1:01:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:39Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #4 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of our listeners' all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! Understanding responsible rabbit care is essential for anyone considering adding a bunny to their family. Join Amy as she interviews Marcy Berman, foun…
…
continue reading

1
From the Vault: Dr. Marlene Siegel on Extending Your Pet’s Life
55:59
55:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:59Bonus Episode From the Vault: The #5 Most Downloaded Episode of 2024! While we’re on a break until Feb 4, we’re bringing back one of your all-time favorite episodes of 2024 from the vault! In this episode, Dr. Marlene Siegel joins us to explore how integrative veterinary care can transform your pet’s health and longevity. Forget masking symptoms—Dr…
…
continue reading

1
Farewell Starlight Pet Talk: Celebrating Our Journey and What's Next for 2025
53:21
53:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:21As we wrap up Starlight Pet Talk, we’re taking a moment to celebrate everything this podcast has meant over the past two years. This episode is all about gratitude, reflection, and a little bit of fun as we look back on the episodes that resonated most with you – our incredible listeners. In this episode, we’re: • Reflecting on the core mission of …
…
continue reading

1
Exciting Changes Ahead: A New Chapter for Our Pet Podcast
38:49
38:49
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:49Big news is in the air, pet lovers! This week’s episode is all about transformation, as we prepare to reveal a bold new direction for the podcast. Join me, Amy Castro, alongside guest host Bev Brooks, as we dive into the why, how, and what’s next for your favorite pet-loving show. What’s changing? More than you might think! From the podcast name to…
…
continue reading

1
Rescue Reboot: Hard Truths and Fresh Ideas for Saving Animals in 2025
1:21:48
1:21:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:21:48Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Join us for an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Daio …
…
continue reading

1
Down the Ant Hill: Exploring the Fascinating World of Ant Keeping with Myrmecologist Zachary Liu
47:55
47:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:55Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Are you curious about the growing trend of ant keeping? In this …
…
continue reading

1
Transform Your Pet's Health: Expert Nutrition Tips from Elizabeth Casas
47:26
47:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:26Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Confused about what’s truly best for your pet’s diet? In this ep…
…
continue reading

1
Unique Gift Ideas for Pet Lovers This Holiday Season
22:06
22:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
22:06Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Looking to make this holiday season unforgettable for the pet lo…
…
continue reading

1
Understanding Trauma in Rescue Dogs
1:01:20
1:01:20
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:20Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy In this insightful episode, Amy and canine behavior consultant K…
…
continue reading

1
Holiday Grooming 101: Keeping Your Pet Healthy and Happy
52:16
52:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
52:16Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy The holiday season is approaching fast! In this episode, Amy sit…
…
continue reading

1
Creating Community at Zoomies Dog Park with CEO Ramy Saleh
50:54
50:54
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:54Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy What if your local dog park could double as a vibrant community …
…
continue reading

1
How Rescue Dog Wines Gives Back to Animal Rescue
27:22
27:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
27:22Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! – Amy In this episode, Blair Lott, co-founder of Rescue Dog Wines, sha…
…
continue reading

1
Stop Training and Start Parenting Your Dog
47:10
47:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:10Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Angie Winters, the insightful author of "Don't Train Your Dog," challe…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy In this special episode, we’re sharing an inspiring episode from…
…
continue reading

1
Is Your Dog Smart?: Exploring Canine Intelligence with Jennifer S. Holland
41:21
41:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:21Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! – Amy Unlock the Secrets of Canine Intelligence with Jennifer S. Holla…
…
continue reading

1
Harvest Pawfest: Building Community Through Pet Events
29:57
29:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:57Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! – Amy In this episode, we sit down with Father Justin Briggle of Good …
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Have you ever wondered if the everyday items your pet uses, like…
…
continue reading

1
Fostering Pets While Heroes Serve: The Story of "Dogs on Deployment"
50:56
50:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:56Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy What happens when both you and your spouse are suddenly called t…
…
continue reading

1
Creating Win-Wins: Successful Partnerships Between Rescues and Pet Businesses
31:05
31:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:05Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! – Amy In this episode, we unlock the secrets to thriving pet businesse…
…
continue reading

1
1672 Miles to a Forever Home: Bonnie’s Rescue Journey
1:02:26
1:02:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:26Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy What happens when a hurricane derails your plans, your car breaks down…
…
continue reading

1
Does Your Dog Have Separation Anxiety? Expert Tips to Help with Trainer Ruth Hegarty
48:06
48:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
48:06Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Join Amy as she sits down with expert dog trainer Ruth Hegarty to tack…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Join us for a vital conversation with Jonathan Wainberg, Senior VP of …
…
continue reading

1
Pro Tips for Extending Your Pet's Life, with Dr. Marlene Siegel, DVM
56:27
56:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
56:27Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Join Amy as she welcomes Dr. Marlene Siegel, a preeminent expert in bi…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy This episode explores the incredible benefits of interacting with pets…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy Join Amy and dog training expert Ruth Hegarty as they tackle solutions…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! – Amy Join us as we dive deep into the world of dog-friendly communiti…
…
continue reading

1
Avoid These Pet Adoption Fails: Tips for a Successful Adoption Application
24:39
24:39
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
24:39Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy In this candid episode, Amy sheds light on the common challenges shelt…
…
continue reading

1
Say "I Do" with Your Pet: Including Pets in Your Wedding
42:05
42:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:05Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy In this episode, Amy chats with wedding expert Nicole Ettenhofer about…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! – Amy In this episode, Amy discusses disaster preparedness for pets wi…
…
continue reading

1
Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby: Tips for a Smooth Transition
1:03:38
1:03:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:38Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! – Amy Get ready for an insightful, in-depth episode as Amy sits down w…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy In this episode, Amy dives deep into the world of emotional inte…
…
continue reading

1
Pet Vaccines 101: Protecting Your Dog or Cat the Right Way
45:13
45:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:13Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy In this episode, Amy interviews Dr. Jeff Grognet, a practicing veterin…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before fully embracing the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy This episode explores the aftercare options available for pets after t…
…
continue reading
Hey there! In this episode, you’ll hear us refer to the show as Starlight Pet Talk—that’s what we called it before we decided to embrace the fur, mess, and mayhem. Don’t worry, you’re in the right place for Muddy Paws and Hairballs—same great content, just with a name that fits! - Amy In this insightful episode, Amy interviews Eliza Burr, a seasone…
…
continue reading