Never Just A Dog: Recent Episodes
John Littlefair
Losing a dog is heartbreaking, and if this is not hard enough, there can sometimes be an underlying stigma in society regarding the grief that follows.
So we have made it our mission to completely crush this stigma, one conversation at a time.
Join your host, John Littlefair as he chats with dog lovers from all over the globe, as they open up about their journey.
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Anne Marie Farage-Smith.
Anne Marie Farage-Smith is a lifelong animal lover and an advocate for all animals. She holds a Master of Science degree in mental health counselling from St. John Fisher University and a Master of Science degree in education from Nazareth University and is a Pet Loss Grief Counselling Trained Professional.
As a licensed mental health counsellor and educator in private practice, she has offered clinical guidance to many individuals and groups experiencing grief and loss. She is the founder of the Rochester Center for Pet Grief and Loss.
Anne Marie is the author of the book Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss.
Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss is designed to help readers understand the bond they have with their pets and why losing them is uniquely painful; aid them in understanding the grief they experience in the aftermath of that loss, and teach them the skills they need to process this loss.
To purchase Healing Wisdom for Pet Loss the website link is below:
Purchase Book Here.
Rochester Center for Pet Grief and Loss
https://www.petlossroc.com/
To connect directly with your host John Littlefair:
john@johnlittlefair.com.au
Official Website
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Eliza-Rose Kan, a registered Music Therapist.
Eliza’s passion for both music and healing has led her on an incredible journey. Join us as Eliza shares her inspiring path to becoming a music therapist and the transformative power of music in the realm of therapy.
To get in touch with your host John Littlefair
john@johnlittlefair.com.au
Original music be Eliza-Rose Kan
Never Just A Dog Website Link
Join John and Talya on this introspective journey as they pay tribute to George's enduring legacy, offering insights into the profound connections we forge with our animal companions and the significance of holding their memories close to our hearts, even years after they've passed away.
And a special thank you to the supporting cast, in no particular order, Meg, Mog, The Fish, and the two crazy comedians Angus and Hamish.
Connect with John directly via email:
john@johnlittlefair.com.au
Website
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/about/
'This episode is dedicated to my dear friend Barbara'
-John-
In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with New York Times Best-Selling Author and International Speaker, Michael Hingson.
Michael's life journey is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Blind since birth, he faced one of the darkest days in modern history, the 9-11 attacks, and emerged not only as a survivor but a testament to the incredible bond between humans and animals. His guide dog Roselle played a pivotal role in this story of teamwork, resilience, and the indomitable will to not just live but thrive. All of this is beautifully chronicled in his Best-Selling book Thunder Dog.
‘Chapter by chapter of this intriguing work will keep you spellbound. Thunder Dog celebrates the power of the human and animal bond. We all can learn life lessons from this incredible story’
-Larry King, Emmy Award-Winning Broadcaster-
You can purchase Thunder Dog via the link below.
Thunder Dog
But Michael's impact extends beyond the pages of his book. He takes his experiences and lessons to audiences around the world, delivering compelling presentations. Find out more at Michael’s website below.
https://michaelhingson.com/speaker/
As mentioned in the episode Michael also has a new book that will be published later this year. Live Like a Guide Dog: true stories from a blind man and his dogs about being brave, overcoming adversity and moving forward in faith is available for pre-order. The link is below.
Live Like A Guide Dog
In this special bonus episode the host and creator of Never Just A Dog, John Littlefair, reflects on his journey over the last three years.
This episode is dedicated to the amazing guests who are Talya, Jess, Rosa, Warren, Jessy, Katie, Tyler, Brayden, Sarah, Pascale, Gretta, Mikayla, Shan, Paige and Beau, Chris, Lillian, David, Shay, Victoria, Beth, Simon, Mathilde, Michel, Erum, Luke, Ivana, Kit, Carolyn, Sonya, Kate, Mark, Dylan, Mary-Frances, Andrew and Anji.
In this episode, John mentions the incredible work of Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD. Find out more by visiting her website below.
https://maryfrancesoconnor.org/
To find out more about the book 'Dog's Best Friend, a brief history of unbreakable bond' visit the link below to Simon Garfield's website.
https://www.simongarfield.com/books/dogs-best-friend/
In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Anji Rajbhandari who is the creator of the Youtube channel called Zazu Talks.
Originally born in Nepal and now residing in California her family has embraced the rich Nepalese Hindu tradition of Kukur Tihar, a day dedicated to celebrating the bond between humans and their dogs.
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/
In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Andrew Phan, a survivor of Testicular Cancer.
In this candid conversation, Andrew opens up in a brave and vulnerable way. He shares the unfiltered truth about his challenging journey with Chemotherapy, the physical and emotional toll it took on him, and the daunting uncertainty that came with it.
Andrew also talks about his involvement with MHT (Men Healthier Together) and to find out more about this organisation visit the link below.
https://healthiermen.com.au/
Andrew also mentions the Mandurah Boat, Caravan, 4WD & Camping Show which he attended to share his journey with the public, the link is below.
https://mandurah.show/
In this episode of Never Just A Dog, your host John Littlefair engages in a captivating conversation with Mary-Frances O'Connor, an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona and an eminent figure in Grief Research and Neuroscience.
Mary-Frances is the brilliant mind behind 'The Grieving Brain', a book that has touched the lives of many by shedding light on the intricate relationship between love, loss, and science.
The website link is below to learn more about Mary-Frances O'Connor and purchase her book 'The Grieving Brain'.
https://maryfrancesoconnor.org/book
In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Dylan Wilson.
Dylan's journey through the world of animal care and conservation has left a lasting impact on wildlife and people.
From his time at Taronga Zoo where he worked with marine mammals and led mesmerising after-hours tours, to fulfilling his dream of working at Australia Zoo alongside the Irwin family, Dylan's journey is extraordinary.
Dylan's dedication to the welfare of animals led him to work with Giraffes and Rhinos at Perth Zoo before transitioning to a unique aspect of animal care that he currently excels in.
John Littlefair
In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Australian Rules Football Cult Hero Mark Zanotti.
In a rare and exclusive interview, Mark shares his incredible football journey and his passion for creating music.
Mark's partner is bravely battling a significant life-threatening illness and in this conversation, he opens up about the impact it has had on their lives.
Below is the link to purchase Mark's song 'She is Love'.
https://markzanotti.bandcamp.com/track/she-is-love
By purchasing this song you not only get to listen to beautiful music but also contribute to a great cause. All proceeds from the sale of 'She is Love' go towards cancer research, supporting Sandra and others who are fighting this battle.
Credits
Mark Zanotti (vocals), Julie Buxton (vocals/piano), Irish composer Colm Mac Iomaire (The Frames, The Swell Season), keyboardist and composer Ruth O'Mahony Brady (Glen Hansard, The Swell Season, Sam Smith), Karl Odlum, bassist from The Mary Janes (Damian Rice, Gemma Hayes, Ham Sandwich) guitars from Robbie Melville (Australian Pops Orchestra, Atelodic, Nat Bartsch), Mark Stanley (drums, percussion, producer) and James Manson (Johnny Blackhorse, Cameron Damon Media, video).
Never Just A Dog/John Littlefair
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Veterinary Nurse Kate Doyle.
Kate shares the journey to becoming a Veterinary Nurse and her passion for Animal Rescue. Kate's story is both inspirational and deeply heartfelt.
This episode is dedicated to Moon, Cheech and a 'Super Pup' called Moe.
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Jirrbal Rainforest Aboriginal woman Sonya Takau.
Sonya talks about using her Aboriginal identity and voice to advocate for the protection and care of the cultural significant totem, the Dingo.
Learn more about Dingo Culture by clicking the link below.
https://www.dingoculture.com/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Carolyn Rubcich.
Carolyn shares her hearfelt journey of life, loss and love.
To find out more about the amazing organisation that Carolyn speaks about in this episode please visit the link below.
https://www.petrescue.com.au/groups/10316/SAFE-Busselton-Saving-Animals-From-Euthanasia
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Wild Bee Scientist and dog lover Dr Kit Prendergast, also known as the Bee Babette.
Dr Kit shares the inspirational and deeply emotional journey with her beloved dog called Zephyr.
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Ivana Alfonso.
Ivana shares her inspirational and emotional journey, from fleeing the war torn country of Yugoslavia as a child, to building a new life in Australia with husband Andrew and beloved dogs Bruno and Lea.
This episode is dedicated to Vito.
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Luke Mellor.
A heartfelt journey with his dog Milah, his wife beautiful wife Alex, children Eliza and Olly
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Himalayan Dog Rescuer Erum Qureshi.
Erum shares her journey from living in Mumbai, moving to the lower Himalayas where she now helps dogs and cats live better lives. In a place where access to basic medical care for animals is tough, Erum works to get them the help they need, be it surgeries or sterilisation.
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Australian Veterinarian Dr Michel Doney.
Michel speaks openly about her passion for people and their pets, end of life decisions, mental health struggles and the support received from professional colleagues during times of despair.
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with award winning Hollywood movie dog trainer Mathilde de Cagny.
Mathilde's journey is inspirational. Born and raised in Paris, France, she moved to Los Angeles at the age of 20. Starting as a volunteer for Birds and Animals Unlimited, she would eventually rescue a dog called Fred who was hired to play Einstein in the Back To The Futuresequel.
Mathilde's most famous and extensive collaboration was with the late Moose, the Jack Russell terrier who starred for 11 years as 'Eddie' on the television show FRASIER.
Other notable credits include Steel Magnolias, My Dog Skip, Marley And Me, As Good As It Gets, Lassie, Hotel For Dogs, Beginners, Hugo and Max I and II.
Mathilde is dedicated to rescuing shelter dogs and giving them a second chance, many going on to be famous.
This is her story.
http://www.mathildedecagny.com/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with New York Times Bestselling Author Simon Garfield.
Simon shares his journey of writing the book 'Dogs Best Friend, a brief history of an unbreakable bond'.
Simon also shares the heartbreaking loss of his beloved Labrador called 'Ludo', who features throughout this incredible book.
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Beth King from Kings Funerals.
Beth talks about Womble the Australian Funeral Comfort Dog, heartbreak in losing a beloved team member and Kings Funerals involvement in the Geelong community.
https://johnlittlefair.com.au/
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Assistance Dog Instructor Victoria Wilkinson.
Victoria shares her inspirational journey, from Guide Dogs in London to Therapy and Autism Assistance dogs in Australia, this is her story.........
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Colorado artist Shay Guerrero.
Devastated by the sudden loss of her 'heart dog' Willy, Shay talks about her incredibly personal journey.
From the depths of grief to the inspiration behind her beautiful Alebrije artwork and Mexican culture, this is her story.
In this episode, your host John Littlefair is joined by Lt. David W. Lim (ret.) of the Port Authority Police Department New York and New Jersey.
Assigned to the World Trade Centre together, on the day of 9/11 David would miraculously survive after the North Tower collapsed on top of him. His partner and friend, PAPD K-9 Explosive Detector Dog Sirius would not survive.
This is his story.
Rest in Peace Sirius
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Lillian Maher from the Middle Island Project. Lillian shares the heartfelt journey with Maremma dogs Eudy and Tula who she describes as true wildlife protecting heros.
In this episode, World Renowned LadyBug Artist Jess shares the emotional last day with her beloved dog called Roo.
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Chris Willingham, former US Marine and President of the US War Dogs Association.
Chris openly shares his journey with the Marines alongside his Military Working Dog called Lucca.
Please support this incredible organisation at
www.uswardogs.org
A compilation of voices from the amazing guests that have featured on the podcast during 2021.
Guests include Talya Carter, LadyBug Artist Jess, Rosa Rizzo, Warren Littlefair, Dr Katie Lawlor, Jessy Griffiths, Tyler Richardson, Brayden Davies, Sarah McLeod, Pascale Terry, Gretta Ray, Mikayla Bowen, Shan Curry, Beau and Paige Carter.
Your host John Littlefair chats with regular guest and Clinical Psychologist Talya Carter, as she shares her own personal journey with pet loss this year.
In this episode, your host John Littlefair sits down with Paige and Beau Carter as they share the journey with their Autistic son Wes.
Life was extemely challenging for the family, all they wanted to do is keep Wes safe. This was about to change when a Magical Labrador came into their lives, an Autistic Assistance dog called Max, who changed everything.
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Shan Curry, singer-songwriter from SheisArjuna.
Shan shares her love for dogs, music, and the inspiration behind 'Vessel', the first single off her debut album.
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Australian Rules Footballer, Mikayla Bowen.
Mikayla shares her journey in becoming an elite athlete, inspiration behind the 'Boxes' brand, and the love she has for dogs.
In this episode we chat with Australian singer-songwriter Gretta Ray.
Gretta shares the inspiration behind the songs on her debut album 'Begin To Look Around' , and the love for a Golden Retriever called 'Billie'.
Pascale Terry, World Animal Warrior, shares the inspirational story of her dog called Butchy.
In the episode we chat with Australian musician, Sarah McLeod, as she shares the journey with her beautiful dog called Chachi.
A story of love, laughter, heartbreak and inspiration, that would lead to the writing and recording of 'Chachi's Theme'.
This is their life together.
In this episode we chat with Australian Freestyle Motocross Star Brayden Davies. Beautiful and heartbreaking, Brayden shares his journey with a dog called Attila.
In this episode, your host John Littlefair chats with Tyler Richardson from Australian rock band Luca Brasi. He shares the story of recording the band's new album, 'Everything is Tenous', song inspiration and the love for his beautiful dog Marley.
In this episode your host John Littlefair chats with Dr Katie Lawlor about her inspirational journey to becoming the Pet Loss Psychologist, and the story of a beautiful soul called Gem.
Your host John Littlefair sits down to chat with Jessy, creator of the 'Never Just A Dog' logo. In a cruel and sad twist of fate, just weeks after designing the logo, she lost her beautiful dog Arnie to cancer. This is her story.
The final episode of a three part series, John Littlefair shares his journey with close friend and Clinical Psychologist, Talya Carter.
The second episode of a three part series, John Littlefair shares his journey with close friend and Clinical Psychologist, Talya Carter.
'This all began with a dog called George'.
The first episode of a three part series, John Littlefair invited close friend and Clinical Psychologist Talya Carter into the studio to share his journey.
In this episode, your host John Littlefair sits down with his brother, Warren, to share childhood memories. Growing up on a farm in Western Australia, dog love, and a Kangaroo called........"Roo".....
In this episode we talk with former New York Police Officer Rosa, as she shares a deeply emotional journey with a very special dog called Harmony.
In this episode we chat with world renowned illustrator and painter, Jess, the creator of Ladybug Art.
From early beginnings right through to today, Jess shares how a deep love for dogs has inspired her artwork.
Also, Jess tells a heartwarming story about how Roo came into her life, a dog that she calls her 'sunshine'.
In this episode, your host John Littlefair sits down with Cinical Psychologist Talya Carter to discuss stigma and grief surrounding dog loss. She also brings along her clinic therapy dog Remi to join into the conversation.
Losing a dog is heartbreaking, and if this is not hard enough, there can sometimes be an underlying stigma in society regarding the grief that follows.
So we have made it our mission to completely crush this stigma, one conversation at a time.
Join your host, John Littlefair as he chats with dog lovers from around the globe as they open up about their journey.
And not every episode will be about loss, we will be sharing inspirational dog stories about how they have impacted lives.