Shows
Cornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialPuppy Pickup Protocol: Your First 24 Hours Made EasyThe first 24 hours with your new retriever are crucial. In this episode, Josh breaks down exactly what to expect on puppy pickup day, common mistakes to avoid, and simple steps to create a calm, confident start. From the car ride home to the first night in the crate, this guide makes day one easy—and sets the foundation for a great retriever.Links discussed in the episode...👉 Link to Preparing For Your New Puppy Blog👉Link to Retriever Puppy Page Full of Great Tips and Blogs✅ Subs...
2025-12-0627 min
Build From HereThey Said His Dog Would Never Hunt… What Happened Next Is Incredible | Chad DuckworthFrom the very beginning of Cornerstone, Chad Duckworth has been part of the CGA family. In this episode, Chad shares one of the most powerful DIY retriever journeys we’ve ever featured—starting with his first dog, Moose, who was once labeled “not cut out” for gun-dog work after a rough pro-training experience. But instead of giving up, Chad rolled up his sleeves, trusted the process, and trained Moose himself through CGA—turning that dog into a steady, reliable hunting partner who accompanied him on countless incredible days in the field.Chad opens up about the highs, the heartb...
2025-12-031h 00Build From Here“What If I Fail?” to “Let’s Train Another Dog” | Chad BattonChad Batton’s story is one every handler can relate to: starting with doubt, feeling the pressure to “get it right,” and hoping to do justice to a well-bred dog. What began with a fear of failure quickly turned into a deep passion for training, community, and the entire retriever lifestyle. In this episode, Chad shares how Cornerstone Gundog Academy helped him build confidence, overcome defining moments like fetch-hold-release, and eventually discover the joy of training multiple dogs. His journey is honest, encouraging, and packed with insight for anyone on the path of building their first retriever.Want t...
2025-11-261h 02Cornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialHow Old Should My Dog Be For The First Hunt?Ever look at your young dog and wonder if you’re about to launch its hunting career… or accidentally set it back? In this episode, Josh pulls back the curtain on the honest truth behind “readiness”—the moments that shape a dog’s entire future, the mistakes that can quietly cripple potential, and the confidence that comes from doing it right. You’ll hear why the 10-month mark matters, what real steadiness looks like, and how the four stages of learning can turn hesitation into certainty. If you love your dog and want to give it the very best start in the f...
2025-11-2424 minBuild From HerePassing the Torch | Marshall AnlikerJosh sits down with longtime CGA member and founding supporter Marshall Anliker to talk hunting, dogs, and the power of community. Marshall shares how a blizzard goose hunt with his great-grandfather lit the fire for waterfowling, how that led him to British Labradors and Southern Oak Kennels, and why Cornerstone has been part of his last three dogs.From college days stacking classes around duck hunts to running a roofing company and training high-drive British Labs at a high level, Marshall opens up about genetics, discipline, reward timing, and what it really means to “train th...
2025-11-201h 07Build From HereTrain Small → Win Big | CGA Member Blake AllenIn this episode of the BuildFromHere Podcast, Josh talks with CGA Member Blake Allen. This episode covers Blake's journey from early failure to Grand title. Blake Allen explains how Cornerstone Gundog Academy helped him build a rock-solid foundation with Rose that enabled him to go on and turn his initial failure into success. In this episode you will learn practical, foundation-first tips for steadiness, calm handling, and consistent progress—whether you’re hunting or running tests.Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?Visit: Cornerstone Gundog AcademyNeed...
2025-11-041h 02Build From HereFrom Dove Openers to King Eiders: ALL IN | Russ FreehlingIn this episode of Build From Here, Joshua Parvin talks with CGA member Russ Freehling about a lifetime of waterfowling, finishing the 41-species North American quest, and the rewards of training his own retriever—from backyard drills to seasoning a pup on real hunts. Tune in for practical training tips, creative urban adaptations, and the joy of building a true hunting partnership.Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?Visit: Cornerstone Gundog AcademyNeed gear for training your retriever, like collars, dog training dummies, and more?...
2025-10-031h 04Cornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialPuppy Socialization: What Do I Need to Teach My Pup?In this episode of the Cornerstone Gundog Academy Podcast, Barton Ramsey dives into one of the most important—and often misunderstood—parts of raising a great retriever: puppy socialization.What does it really mean to socialize your pup? How do you set them up for success in those crucial first months? Barton unpacks the philosophy behind socialization, shares practical do’s and don’ts, and explains why shaping your puppy’s worldview early on makes all the difference.You’ll learn:Why socialization isn’t just exposure—it’s about positive experiences.The key people, pl...
2025-09-1813 min
The Outdoorsman's MandateFrom Waterfowl to Worship: How Duck Hunting and Dogs Led to Divine RedemptionCody shares his remarkable journey from feeling spiritually empty to finding faith through his passion for duck hunting and retrievers. His transformation began when a casual listen to a podcast sparked a spiritual curiosity that would change his life forever.• Growing up in a traditional church environment without feeling truly connected• Finding passion in waterfowl hunting after getting his first bird dog• Experiencing a spiritual void despite having outwardly fulfilling life• How a podcast conversation about faith sparked his curiosity• Discovering that prayer could be a natural conversation rather than formal ritual• Walking thro...
2025-09-181h 14The Outdoorsman's MandateFaith, Martyrdom, and Standing for Truth in Troubled TimesThe assassination of Charlie Kirk represents more than just a political attack—it symbolizes a deeper spiritual battle raging for the heart and soul of our nation.• Standing for truth often faces opposition, similar to Stephen in Acts who was killed for speaking truth• Charlie Kirk exemplified respectful dialogue, taking time to listen while remaining committed to truth• This battle isn't against flesh and blood but against spiritual darkness• Light shines brightest in darkness, making this the most strategic time to stand for truth• Our response to tragedy should be love, not anger or vengeance...
2025-09-1137 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialDoes First Pick Matter? The Truth About Choosing PuppiesDoes first pick really matter when choosing a puppy? In this episode of the Cornerstone Gundog Academy Podcast, Barton Ramsey dives into why focusing on the litter and parents matters far more than pick order. Backed by years of breeding, training, and research, you’ll learn what really sets you up for success.Read the Blog Referenced in This Episode by Clicking Here👉 Subscribe for more weekly retriever training tips and proven methods from Cornerstone Gundog Academy — your guide to training a hunting retriever you can be proud of!Want to...
2025-09-1123 minCornerstone Gundog Academy Official5 Lessons I Learned Training My First RetrieverIn this episode of the Cornerstone Gundog Academy Podcast, we revisit one of the most impactful lessons I’ve ever shared—the five things I learned while training my very first retriever. Originally written as an email and later expanded into a blog, these lessons have resonated with countless retriever owners. Now, I’m bringing them to the podcast—updated with new insights and bonus wisdom gathered from years of training, conversations, and community feedback.You’ll discover:What the hardest part of owning a retriever is.How shifting your mindset can unlock breakthroughs when train...
2025-09-0420 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialIntroducing Retriever School: Fall in Love With Training Your Dog and Train With ConfidenceIn this episode of the Cornerstone Gundog Academy podcast, Barton Ramsey and Josh Parvin are introducing a new series called Retriever School. Retriever School is a 9-week video series that teaches struggling retriever owners how to turn things around step by step. It’s fun, easy to follow, and gets fantastic results for both the dog and the owner. Ready to join Retriever School? Click Here to Learn More!Want to learn how to train your hunting dog with confidence?Visit: Cornerstone Gundog AcademyNee...
2025-09-0139 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialDog Overheating: Signs, What to Do, and How to Prevent ItIs your dog at risk of overheating this summer? 🌡️ You head out for a hunt, a training session, or even just a walk — and suddenly your dog seems sluggish, panting hard, or worse. Overheating can happen quickly, and if you don’t know what to look for, it can be dangerous.In this episode of the Cornerstone Gundog Academy podcast, we dig into the warning signs of dog overheating, what to do if it happens, and how to prevent it in the first place.You’ll learn:The early signs and symptoms
2025-08-2911 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialWhy Your Dog Won’t Listen (And How to Fix It)Is your dog ignoring you no matter what you try? You give a command, and they look away, wander off, or act like they’ve never heard you. In this episode of the Cornerstone Gundog Academy podcast, we dig into why your dog won’t listen—and how you can fix it starting today.You’ll learn:The real reasons dogs ignore commands (it’s not always disobedience)4 scientifically proven ways you can influence your dog’s behaviorThe breakthrough Cornerstone Gundog Protocol for when your dog “not interested”How to shift from frustration to focus with simpl...
2025-08-2826 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialHow Much Does Retriever Training Really Cost in 2025?Retriever training costs have become one of the most confusing and misleading aspects of owning a hunting dog. Drawing from years of experience and hard-learned lessons, this episode cuts through the noise to reveal what you'll actually pay for various levels of retriever training in 2025.What standard are you actually training to? What expectations do you have for your hunting companion? Your answers to these questions will determine not just how much you'll spend, but whether you'll be satisfied with what you get. Before investing thousands in retriever training, make sure you understand exactly what you're paying...
2025-08-2337 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialHow to "Read" Your DogEver found yourself wondering what your retriever is trying to tell you? That moment when training suddenly goes sideways and you can't figure out why? The answer lies in understanding your dog's engagement level—a fundamental skill that transforms good handlers into great ones.This deep dive into "reading your dog" strips away the complexity and focuses on what truly matters: recognizing when your retriever is mentally connected versus when they're checking out. Drawing from both scientific research and years of practical experience, we explore how specific body language signals—wide eyes, forward ears, high tail position, and...
2025-08-1724 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialSteadiness is a LifestyleSteadiness might be the most underrated quality in a hunting retriever. It's also the most misunderstood. Rather than simply sitting still during retrieves, true steadiness represents something far more profound: a dog that trusts you enough to override its own powerful instincts.Ever watched another hunter's dog break on birds while yours sits calmly at your side? That magical moment isn't just about obedience—it's about the bond you've built. As we approach early hunting season, now is the perfect time to develop this quality that transforms both safety and success in the field.The po...
2025-08-0935 minBuild From HereRecounting an Epic Goose and Duck Hunt | Colin Berry#073 Every dog owner remembers the moment everything clicked, but few journeys are as transformative as watching a nervous college student evolve into a confident hunting partner alongside his retriever. Colin Berry takes us through five incredible years with Milo, from that fateful puppy pickup day when flip-flops and non-toe-biting behavior sealed the deal, to their recent epic Kansas waterfowl hunt that showcased the power of patience and proper foundation training.We dive deep into the real challenges first-time retriever owners face - the overwhelming stress of potentially ruining a dog with excellent genetics, the comparison trap of...
2025-08-0645 minCornerstone Gundog Academy OfficialIntroducing The Cornerstone Gundog Academy PodcastWelcome to the first episode of the Cornerstone Gundog Academy podcast, where we provide valuable tips and insights for your retriever training journey. This shorter-format podcast aims to deliver concrete, trustworthy advice in 20-30 minute episodes to help you overcome training challenges and develop a retriever you can be proud of.• Cornerstone Gundog Academy was founded in 2016 to provide a comprehensive digital training platform• Over 7,000 dog owners have successfully used our methods to develop great retrievers• Our step-by-step courses eliminate confusion from contradictory training advice• We believe anyone can train a great retriever with the righ...
2025-08-0207 minBuild From HereCGA Nashville Chapter Inaugural Meeting | Kevin Wright#72 What happens when the digital world of retriever training transforms into face-to-face connections? The answer lies in the groundbreaking Nashville Chapter event – the very first Cornerstone Gundog Academy chapter gathering that's changing how retriever owners train, learn, and build community.Kevin Wright returns to the podcast to share the remarkable success story of organizing and hosting this inaugural chapter event. As a passionate CGA member who took the initiative to bring fellow retriever enthusiasts together, Kevin offers valuable insights into how the Nashville Chapter came together, what made their first gathering so special, and why this model re...
2025-07-0146 minBuild From Here"Give This Dog Some Wins" | Blair Badham#071 What happens when perfectionism meets a headstrong Labrador? Blair Badham shares his transformative journey from frustrated dog owner to confident trainer through perseverance, community support, and a crucial mindset shift.Blair's story begins with his childhood love of the outdoors, fishing with his father and eventually discovering hunting. Despite having no family background in dog training, Blair took on the challenge of training his British Black Lab, Gus, as both a family companion and hunting retriever. The early days were marked by frustration – Blair's perfectionist tendencies clashed with Gus's high-energy personality, creating a strained relationship rather than th...
2025-06-171h 07Build From HereMississippi Roots, Kansas Wings | Wade Skeen#070 Wade Skeen's path from Air Force serviceman to Kansas waterfowl guide extraordinaire reveals how passion, community, and proper training methods can transform both careers and gundogs. As a longtime Cornerstone Gundog Academy member before becoming a professional outfitter, Wade brings a uniquely valuable perspective that bridges the worlds of retriever training and professional hunting.Growing up in Mississippi with a focus on whitetail and turkey hunting, Wade's move to Kansas in 2012 opened his eyes to an underappreciated waterfowl paradise. What began as occasional hunts with friends evolved into Skeen Outfitters, now one of the premier guided waterfowl...
2025-06-101h 17Build From HereYour Dog Gets To, Not Has To | Chris RowlandBFH #069 When Chris Rowland's wife gifted him a Cornerstone Gundog Academy membership for his birthday, neither of them realized it would spark a transformative journey into the world of science-based retriever training. In this captivating conversation, Chris shares how his background in psychology helped him appreciate the profound difference between dogs that work because they "get to" versus those that work because they "have to."Chris takes us through his evolution from casual hunter to devoted retriever trainer, detailing how he's successfully trained bench-bred show Labradors to perform at impressive levels in the hunting field and formal...
2025-05-281h 18Build From HereWhen God Says "Go Train Your Dog" | Seth VaughnBFH #068 What do retriever training and life's toughest challenges have in common? More than you might think. In this heartfelt conversation with CGA member Seth Vaughn, we explore how training a golden retriever named Rusty became not just about creating a hunting companion, but a journey of personal transformation and healing.Seth takes us from his Southern Illinois upbringing surrounded by outdoor pursuits to his pivotal moment witnessing a trained retriever at work in Arkansas. That experience changed everything, setting him on a path that would eventually lead to Cornerstone Gundog Academy. Through candid stories of both...
2025-05-151h 03