Shows
Fostering Excellence in AgilityStepping Out of the Comfort Zone with Rose Cybulski057 In this episode, Megan is joined by the host of Before the Q, Rose Cybulski, to talk about stepping out of one's comfort zone and what the road to the 2026 Canadian Open might look like—interested in learning more? Check it out:
Before the Q Podcast
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2025-12-1735 min
Before The QAn episode about errors with Dave MunningsIn this episode of Before the Cue, host Rose speaks with agility trainer Dave Munnings about the importance of fun in dog training, understanding errors, and adapting training methods to the individual dog. Dave shares his journey into agility, discusses common errors in training, and emphasizes the significance of building a strong relationship with dogs. The conversation also touches on the transition to online training and future projects in the agility community. Check out Q-me agility Welcome to Q-Me Agilitybefore the Q Vlog first installment - https://youtu.be/HWS6HMJ4Vjc?si=U4...
2025-12-1553 minBefore The QThe power of pre placed rewards with Laura WaudbyLaura Waudby and I discuss the concept of preplaced rewards in dog training, particularly in agility. They explore the importance of curiosity in training, the role of reward placement, and common mistakes trainers make. Laura shares insights on how to effectively implement preplaced rewards, the significance of foundational training, and real-life applications of these techniques. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear communication with dogs and the benefits of using preplaced rewards to enhance training outcomes.Laura's recent blog post Rethinking Sends in AgilityBye Bye cookie class sign up here: Fenzi Dog Sports Academy - F...
2025-11-2742 minBefore The QI’ll Be Over Here Enjoying AgilityIn this solo episode, Rose sits down with her coffee to unpack a few thoughts. From a recent adventure with Levi and Norbert to the internet’s latest debates on training methods, Rose opens up about cue-chasing, values-based training, and why joy should lead the way — even when the online chatter gets loud.She talks about reinforcement, aversives, and the four quadrants, and why it’s always okay to ask questions or advocate for your dog in class. Rose also dives into how to evaluate potential trainers, the importance of checking in on your own comfort, and recogn...
2025-11-2215 minBefore The QAgility Adjacent Skill: Why the Down Stay MattersIn this episode, I dive into one of my absolute favorite Agility Adjacent Skills — the Down Stay!We often think of the Down Stay as a calm, quiet exercise… but it can actually be one of the most essential skills your agility dog learns. A strong Down Stay builds confidence, self-control, and focus — all the ingredients for brilliant performance in the ring!
2025-11-0520 minBefore The QCanine Fitness with Dr. Debbie Torraca and Tara MonahanIn this episode of Before the Q, host Rose Cybulski speaks with canine fitness experts Tara Monahan and Dr. Deb Torraca about the critical role of fitness in agility training. They discuss the importance of building a strong foundation for dogs, the concepts of proprioception and body awareness, common mistakes handlers make in fitness training. The conversation also covers the significance of warm-ups and the use of equipment in canine fitness. Find a CPCFT - Certified Professional Canine Fitness TrainerWizard of Paws Physical Rehabilitation for Animals, Deborah Gross, Canine Physical Assessment, Get On The B...
2025-10-2046 minBefore The QToys, Dogs & Reinforcement with Shade WhiteselIn this episode I chat with the amazing Shade Whitesel, we get a peek into her Journey as a dog trainer. Shade helps teams build better, stronger, clearer reinforcement systems especially around toys. This episode focuses on the benifits of using toys as reinforcement, differences between food and toy rewards, and common challenges faced by handlers when introducing toys to their dogs. Shade shares insights and a number of awesome training tips. I hope you enjoy this episode I sure did!! How to connect with Shade:Shade Whitesel Dog Training | Seattle WA Lo...
2025-09-1544 minBefore The QThe Power of Mindset with Hélène LawlerIn this episode, we chat with Hélène Lawler about her journey into dog training and dive deep into the power of mindset. What is mindset, really—and how can it help or hinder us in agility? This episode covers common struggles handlers face, the connection between emotions and performance, and practical strategies for building mental resilience. Listeners are encouraged to recognize their own beliefs and emotions, and how these can shape their experiences in dog sports.How to connect with Hélène:Hélène Lawler Coaching...
2025-08-131h 10Before The QTraining for Canine Confidence in Trials with Laura WaudbyLaura Waudby shares her journey into agility, discussing her experiences with different breeds and the challenges of training. She emphasizes the importance of building confidence in dogs, understanding their stress responses in competition settings, and practical tips for trial preparation.SIGN UP for Laura's ring confidence course HERE Fenzi Dog Sports Academy - OB160: Ring Confidence for Obedience, Rally, and Agility - working spots fill up fast! Ring Confidence for Dog Sports with Laura Waudby | Facebook I highly suggest joining this group if you are on Facebook!!!! So many GEMS and solid training videos a...
2025-07-2235 minBefore The QIn the LoopIn this episode I talk about the concept of loopy training, a method that emphasizes the importance of creating clean, predictable training loops for dogs. I discuss the significance of reinforcement, transport behaviors, and the role of engagement in shaping behaviors. Throughout the episode, I share personal experiences and insights, and the impact of clarity and planning in dog training.Links and related podcast episode suggestions as promised (I stuck with one episode per podcast to not overwhelm!)Alexandra kurland - https://www.equiosity.comI suggest episode 12 l...
2025-06-2728 minBefore The QOpting In - Canine Engagement in Agility with Megan FosterIn this episode, we're diving into one of the most critical—and often misunderstood—aspects of canine agility: engagement. Whether you're stepping to the line with a young pup or refining skills with a seasoned agility partner, the concept of "opting in" is key to success!Joining Rose today is the incredible Megan Foster, renowned agility competitor, respected trainer, and the mind behind Fostering Excellence in Agility. Megan brings a wealth of experience to the conversation as she unpacks what engagement really means, why it matters so much, and how handlers can build it consistently and sustainably.
2025-06-0249 minBefore The QCornerstone Foundation Skills in Agility with Sarah Espinoza-SokalWhat does it really take to build a successful agility team with your dog? In this episode, Rose is joined by Sarah Espinoza-Sokal, an experienced agility trainer and coach, to break down the core foundation skills every agility team needs—to have a successful training journey.Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your current training, Sarah shares invaluable insights into the building blocks of agility success, from engagement and focus to communication and trust. We dive into the "why" behind foundational work and how investing in relationship-building can elevate your training—and your bond—w...
2025-05-071h 02Before The QFocus, Flow and Visualization with Stefanie Theis!In this episode I have my first guest, good friend of the podcast Stefanie Theis. Stephanie is an experienced agility competitor, coach, and canine enthusiast. We talk all about visualization, overcoming challenges and she gives some great insights to help up your visualization game. I hope you enjoy it! How to connect with Stefanie :K9 Nut, LLC | Nurturing Unique Traininghttps://www.facebook.com/share/1Aec1Ca5Hb/?mibextid=wwXIfr
2025-04-1838 minBefore The QFast Track to Success: Video Review Accelerating Your Agility Trainingthis is a link to On form app I talked about! Onform | Sports Video Analysis App & Coaching Platform give me a follow on social media and let me know what you thought of the episode!Thank you for listening.
2025-03-2827 minBefore The QBefore the Q Episode 3: Taking Effective Video of Agility Training and Trial RunsEffective video is not hard to get but these tips will make it even easier!
2025-03-0614 minBefore The QBefore the Q Episode 2 - Agility takes two!Best episode yet. I wish I had invested more time into my part in agility sooner. I hope you enjoy the episode! Thank you for listening.
2025-02-1522 min2025-01-2720 min