Welcome to another episode of TWC podcast where we explore diverse perspectives and challenge the status quo. Today, I have a brave guest who steps outside the lines of her community's ideology to share her strong opinions on a topic she's passionate about. It's not easy to question deeply held beliefs, especially when they are influenced by powerful propaganda. Our conversation highlights the difficulty many people face in changing their opinions once they're anchored in a position. As Patrice O'Neil wisely said, "You can hold your opinions, but don't let your opinions hold you." It's crucial not to be "married" to your ideas. They are just ideas, and clinging to a false belief out of fear of being wrong is far weaker than admitting the mistake. But is it at all possible?! Join us as we delve into the importance of keeping an open mind, embracing change, and the courage it takes to break free from ideological constraints. Let's dive in!

Recently I invited David Garcia Suarez from Spain to judge our club trial so we could get critiqued first hand by one the most respected IGP judges at the moment. David has judged many National Championships, as well as World Championships including FMBB which he will once again judge this month in Italy. The conversation gives a glimpse of how he evaluates IGP performance and what the rule book expects from the handler, how emotional state(s) are evaluated as well. We also talk about the current pressure the sport is under in Europe, the demands of the force free advocates and much more.

In this episode, I interviewed dog sport competitor, IGP judge, member of the WUSV board of directors, and current United Schutzhund Club of America President, Vadim Plotsker. I have been wanting to have this conversation for a long time as Vadim has a very unique perspective on the sport of Schutzhund and the German Shepherd dog. During the conversation we were able to discuss the current state of Schutzhund not only in America, but worldwide. I was able to find some answers regarding rule changes and the path required for them to become rules in the FCI standard. We were also able to discuss some of the issues facing the sport of IGP worldwide and potential solutions to those issues. I learned a ton from this discussion and I am sure you will as well!