Barking Mad

Everywhere you look, pet food brands are promising to be eco-friendly, responsibly sourced, or better for the planet. But what do those claims actually mean, and how can pet parents separate meaningful sustainability efforts from clever marketing? Hosts Jordan Tyler and Dr. Stephanie Clark are joined by Allison Reser Hamburger of the Pet Sustainability Coalition and Paul Shapiro, CEO of The Better Meat Co., to unpack why sustainability feels so complicated. Together, they explore the tradeoffs behind ingredient sourcing, packaging, alternative proteins, and more while debunking common misconceptions about sustainability in pet food.

Show Notes

🌐 Che...

Sharks have survived for more than 400 million years, but now, many species are dwindling in numbers. In this episode of Barking Mad, Jordan Tyler sit down with conservation experts from the Shark Trust, AZA SAFE Shark & Ray Program, Aquarium Conservation Partnership, and Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch to set the record straight on one of the ocean’s most misunderstood animals.

Jordan explores explore why shark populations are declining, how sustainable fisheries can support both conservation and global food systems, and why seafood traceability has become increasingly important, specifically when it comes to your pet’s bowl. Jord...

Summer is in full swing, and so are pet food recalls, lawsuits, and warm-weather safety concerns. In this month's edition of Zoomies, Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler round up the latest headlines that every pet parent should know. From the internet's latest obsession with "boy kibble" to expanding pet food recalls and the growing concern surrounding the New World Screwworm, this episode blends industry insight and practical advice with plenty of laughs along the way. Our hosts also share important reminders about fireworks safety, parasite prevention, and why staying informed about recalls can help protect your pets.

In this special episode of Barking Mad—recorded live at Interzoo 2026, the world’s largest pet industry trade show, and sponsored by Kallman Worldwide, Inc.—we sidestep the booths and bags to explore the founding stories, philosophies, and trends shaping the future of pet care. From personalized nutrition and shelf-stable fresh food to pet longevity research, veterinary telehealth, and entirely new product categories, this episode highlights the entrepreneurs challenging conventional thinking across the global pet industry.

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🎧 Missed our first episode from Interzoo 2026? Check it out here to get the scoop on the European pet care...

Think the European pet market is one big, unified thing? Think again. Recorded live from Interzoo 2026, the world's largest pet industry event, this episode of Barking Mad explores the cultural, economic, and behavioral differences shaping pet ownership around the globe. Join Jordan Tyler as she sits down with pet industry leaders from Europe and beyond to discuss everything from pet humanization and retail trends to sustainability and emerging markets. The result is a fascinating look at how local realities (not just global assumptions!) are shaping the future of pet care. Episode sponsored by Kallman Worldwide, Inc.

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From the show floor at Interzoo 2026 to the latest developments in pet food safety and regulation, this episode explores breaking news and notable headlines happening across the pet care industry. Hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler discuss Barking Mad's international debut in Nuremberg, emerging innovations in pet nutrition, recent pet food recalls, and the growing number of lawsuits against pet food companies.

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🌍 Learn more about Interzoo, the world’s largest pet industry trade show, and stay tuned for upcoming episodes from the show floor!

✅ It’s official! You can now follow us...

From industry shakeups to trending pet headlines, it’s time for the April Zoomies! Once a month, Jordan Tyler and Dr. Stephanie Clark will break down the latest news from across the pet world and what it means for pet owners, veterinary professionals, and the future of animal care. We discuss emerging trends and timely conversations impacting pets and the people who love them. The Barking Mad Podcast will keep you informed, entertained, and in the know on everything happening in the pet industry right now.

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🐶Read the full story here! First...

Veterinary medicine has evolved rapidly, bringing incredible advancements in technology, diagnostics, and treatment options. Yet, as care becomes more sophisticated, it’s also becoming more expensive, complex, and in many cases, less accessible for everyday pet owners. In this episode, hosts Jordan Tyler and Dr. Stephanie Clark sit down with world-renowned veterinarian Dr. Jan Pol to explore how the profession has changed over his 50+ year career. From hands-on training and common-sense diagnostics to the rise of corporate clinics and increasing costs, Dr. Pol shares candid insights on what it takes to deliver effective, compassionate care in today’s landscape.

Walk the New Product Showcase at Global Pet Expo 2026 with host Jordan Tyler and special guest David Perez, who has formulated thousands of pet nutrition products throughout his career and isn’t afraid to question what’s actually new versus what’s just good marketing. From bone broth chews and goat milk “ice cream” to protein-packed treats and longevity-focused formulas, this episode takes you booth by booth through one of the pet industry’s most talked-about New Product Showcases. Tune in for candid takes on why true innovation in pet nutrition can be hard to find—even in a sea of new pro...

This conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about rats. Host Jordan Tyler sits down with Erin Sackett of APOPO and BSM Partners’ own zoological expert, Dr. Jen Parsons, to explore the incredible world of HeroRATs—African giant pouched rats trained to detect landmines, diagnose tuberculosis, combat wildlife trafficking, and even assist in search and rescue missions. Join us as we break down age-old myths about rodents and rats to showcasing how these incredible animals are transforming global health and safety.

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💣 Learn more about APOPO and its HeroRATs program, including how you can ado...

Fear-based marketing and misinformation have cast rendered ingredients in a negative light in the eyes of many pet parents. But what if we told you this ingredient class is one of the most sustainable and reliable ones we have for pet food? Join Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler and a handful of industry experts as they break down common myths and reframe rendering as a practical, eco-friendly solution. From debunking misconceptions about byproducts to uncovering the environmental impact of reducing food waste, this conversation challenges listeners to rethink what quality really means when it comes to pet food.<...

The pet supplement aisle can feel overwhelming. Joint chews, calming treats, immune boosters—every product promises better health for our pets. But how do you know which ones are legitimate? Join Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler as they take a closer look at the booming pet supplement industry and the role of the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) Seal in helping bring structure and accountability to this complex market. Learn why supplements aren’t regulated like drugs, how misleading claims sometimes slip through the cracks, and why scientific research plays such an important role in responsible product formulation.

When the cameras stop rolling, what remains? For the Pol family, the end of “The Incredible Dr. Pol” was a finale, but it was also a beginning. In this episode, hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler sit down with Charles Pol, Dr. Pol’s son and executive producer, and longtime producer Mike Stankevich to explore how the show became the foundation for Docson Brands and the development of Incredi-Pol pet foods. Recorded live from the SUPERZOO 2025 show floor, this candid conversation reveals the philosophy that has always guided Dr. Pol’s work: affordable, accessible, common-sense care for animals and the...

In this Valentine’s Day special, hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler dive into the wildest, weirdest, and most unexpectedly heartwarming mating rituals in the animal kingdom. From anglerfish that fuse to their partners and octopuses that take “all in” a little too literally to cannibalistic courtships, pebble-gifting penguins, and ride-or-die prairie voles, this episode proves that love in nature runs the full spectrum of swoon-worthy to downright savage. Equal parts biology lesson and comedy hour, it’s a reminder that while romance may look different across species, devotion (and drama) is universal. Stick around for a sweet surprise...

This National Pet Dental Health Month, we’re sinking our teeth into one of the most overlooked areas of pet wellness: oral health. Hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler are joined by a veterinary dentist and several pet dental health innovators to explore why dental disease goes far beyond doggy breath, breaking down how plaque, tartar, and inflammation can impact the heart, kidneys, and overall health of pets. Learn why toothbrushing is the gold standard, what dental chews and additives can realistically achieve, and how pet parents can build effective routines without aiming for perfection. From myth-busting to pr...

In this episode of Barking Mad, hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler sit down with consumer strategy expert Michael Johnson to unpack the rise of luxury pet products and the humanization of pets through the lens of economics, guilt, and lifestyle signaling. From diamond-studded collars to ultra-premium pet foods, this conversation challenges the assumption that higher prices always equal better care, explores how affordable options are increasingly stigmatized, and asks a critical question facing the industry today: what happens when “doing right by your pet” starts to feel financially out of reach?

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💎 Check o...

As we forge full speed ahead into 2026, the Barking Mad team takes a moment to reflect on the conversations that shaped 2025 and what they revealed about pets, pet ownership, and the industry at large. From standout episodes and unexpected lessons to topics that challenged assumptions and sparked deeper curiosity, this mini episode looks back on what resonated most with listeners and why it mattered. Then, hosts Jordan Tyler and Dr. Stephanie Clark look ahead to 2026, sharing what’s next for the podcast, how the show is evolving, and where they plan to take future conversations. Expect thoughtful takeaways, a fe...

The holidays are here, and Barking Mad is leaning all the way into the cozy chaos. In this special seasonal episode, we explore the weird, wonderful, and unexpectedly fascinating ways animals show up in holiday traditions around the world, from reindeer with surprisingly complex biology to the ominous legend of Iceland’s Yule Cat, and plenty of pet-parent realities in between. Join us as we unpack curious animal facts, folklore, and festive science, and share more than a few laughs about what the holidays really look like when pets are involved. Wishing you and yours a very Barking Mad ho...

Live from the SUPERZOO 2025 show floor, we sit down with Clayton Payne, the unapologetic disruptor behind one of the world’s most downloaded pet industry podcasts, Pet Business Disruptors. Join us as we unravel what real innovation looks like in today’s pet care landscape, explore why staying close to everyday pet owners matters more than any trend report, and share how pet owners can spot products that genuinely solve problems for you and your pets. Whether you’re overwhelmed by labels, confused by claims, or simply want to make smarter choices for your pets, this episode delivers clarity, person...

You might worry when you see ingredients like salt, cellulose, gums, or artificial flavors on a pet food label, but most of these so-called villains are actually essential for food safety, nutrition, taste, and preservation. In this episode, we sit down with food scientist Dr. Abbey Thiel to unpack how these ingredients work, why they’ve been unfairly vilified, and why we should reconsider our stance against them. From the truth behind “sawdust in kibble” to the science of palatants, we break down the myths that fuel fear-based marketing. You’ll learn what matters, what doesn’t, and how to read in...

One toss of the toy changed everything for Adriane and Mike Wang and their “firstborn son.” In this heartwarming episode, you’ll meet the couple behind the internet’s favorite Corgi duo: Dash & Lili. Recorded live from the floor of SUPERZOO 2025, this episode takes you behind the camera to reveal their real story behind their virality online, why the Wangs are so selective about brand partnerships, and what they’ve learned about truth in pet food marketing. From grading poop (yes, really) to spotlighting shelters in need, this conversation is a celebration of authenticity, compassion, and the bond we share with...

Every Halloween, black cats, bats, and spiders take center stage as symbols of all things spooky—but how did these animals earn their eerie reputations, and which creatures deserve a little more Halloween spotlight? In this Barking Mad Halloween special, hosts Jordan Tyler and Dr. Stephanie Clark are joined by David Perez and Kait Wright to unravel the myths, folklore, and surprising facts behind nature’s creepiest (and most misunderstood) species. From toads with hallucinogenic toxins to beetles that bury the dead, discover how science, superstition, and pop culture turned these seemingly ordinary animals into Halloween legends.

Help...

From chocolate and xylitol to ibuprofen and antidepressants, some of the most dangerous toxins for pets are hiding in plain sight—our kitchens and medicine cabinets. In this episode, hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler wrap up their three-part toxicities series with insights from Dr. Katy Miller, DVM, Dr. Tina Wismer of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, and Dr. Renee Schmid of Pet Poison Helpline. Join us as we uncover the everyday foods, supplements, and medications that can turn deadly for pets and share practical prevention tips every pet parent should know. 

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🎧...

You’ve scrubbed the counters, mopped the floors, watered the plants, and stepped back to admire your hard work. But beneath that picture-perfect glow lurks a lineup of silent offenders: cleaners, fertilizers, and even houseplants that could turn your pet’s safe haven into a danger zone. In this second installment of Barking Mad’s Toxicity Trilogy, we investigate the hidden hazards in our homes, from corrosive cleaning products to deadly lilies and lawn care items. Featuring insights from animal toxicology experts, join us as we investigate how to keep our homes clean, our lawns green, and our pets health...

In this episode of Barking Mad, Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler crack open the case file on the fragrance underworld—candles, essential oils, sprays, diffusers, and the like—and investigate whether these everyday comforts are harmless pleasures or hidden culprits in your pet’s environment. Featuring toxicology experts Dr. Tina Wismer of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center and Dr. Renee Schmid of Pet Poison Helpline, plus Pete Stirling of Skout’s Honor, this true-crime-style deep dive exposes how concentration, species, and even the word “natural” can determine whether a scent is safe or suspicious. Stay tuned for the next two...

Many of the industry’s boldest ideas are bubbling up from fresh, fearless entrepreneurs reshaping the future of pet care. In this episode of Barking Mad, recorded live on the SUPERZOO 2025 show floor, hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler spotlight the startups and innovators rewriting the rules of pet nutrition and wellness. From fresh, vet-formulated diets and allergy-friendly treats to nutrient-dense regenerative organ blends, cost-effective functional ingredients, and a novel H2GO hydration gel, you'll hear firsthand how these brands are transforming pet owners’ pain points into opportunities.

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🎧 Hear more candid conversations from th...

Independent pet retailers are the lifeblood of the pet industry—they’re the shops that know your dog’s name, guide you through tricky nutrition questions, and bring innovation to communities long before Amazon catches on. At SUPERZOO 2025, we sat down with the people and brands working to ensure indie retailers don’t just survive, but thrive. Tune in for candid insights from IndiePet, Earthwise Pet, Hollywood Feed, Dave’s Pet Food, and FirstMate Pet Foods about why the independent channel matters, how retailers are adapting to new challenges, and the role brands and organizations play in supporting them. We also sp...

Live from the show floor at SUPERZOO 2025, we sit down with Daniel Schulof, Founder and CEO of KetoNatural Pet Foods and author of Dogs, Dog Food, and Dogma. In this candid conversation, Schulof pulls no punches on one of the most debated topics in pet nutrition—carbohydrates. From AAFCO’s upcoming Pet Nutrition Facts label changes to the spread of misinformation in pet nutrition, we explore how transparency in labeling could reshape consumer choices and companion animal health. This episode cuts through the noise with hard questions, bold insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges—and opportunities—facing the pet...

Invasive fish and marine animals are wreaking havoc on local waterways, economies, and even taking a toll on recreational fishing and boating, but a new wave of innovators is flipping the script. In this episode of Barking Mad, Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler dive into the wild world of invasive species—and how they might just be the next novel proteins in pet nutrition. From Asian carp in the Midwest to green crabs in New England and lionfish in the Gulf, meet the entrepreneurs and innovators turning ecological chaos into sustainable, nutrient-rich pet food. It’s part science, part...

Step onto the show floor at SUPERZOO 2025, North America’s largest pet industry trade show, without leaving the comfort of your home! In this episode, co-hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler take you behind the booths and into their conversations with first-time exhibitors, longtime industry veterans, and innovators shaping what’s next for pets and their people. From playful product launches to thought-provoking insights on humanization, co-manufacturing, and what real innovation looks like, this is your backstage pass to the buzz, the lessons, and the laughs that made this year’s SUPERZOO experience unforgettable. And stay tuned for more e...

Bugs: your dog’s been eating them anyway—why not make it official? In this episode of Barking Mad, Jordan and Dr. Steph dig deep into the world of insect-based pet nutrition—from black soldier fly larvae to crickets to mealworms. You’ll hear from scientists, brand leaders, and strategists about the surprising nutritional benefits, sustainability wins, and cultural hurdles of feeding bugs to our pets. Whether you’re intrigued or totally grossed out, this episode will challenge what you thought you knew about both “ick” and innovation.

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🦗 Learn more about the companies and brands featur...

Confused by the term “holistic” on pet food labels? You’re not alone. In this episode of Barking Mad, we unpack what holistic pet nutrition really means—from food energetics and antioxidants to species-appropriate diets and the One Health approach. With expert guests and a no-nonsense approach, join us as we help you navigate the science, the claims, and the gray areas of holistic pet nutrition so you can feed with confidence, not confusion.

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🔗 The Lifestyle Link: How Home Environments Shape Your Dog’s Health and Happiness: https://bsmpartners.net/insights/the-lifestyle-link-how-home-environments-shape-your-dogs-health-and-happiness/

🤔 What does...

Tons of brands say their packaging is recyclable. But what does that really mean—and how does it actually happen? In this episode of Barking Mad, we unpack the truth behind pet food packaging: misleading claims, infrastructure gaps, consumer confusion, and the realities that make flexible plastics so difficult to recycle. With expert voices from packaging engineers, sustainability leaders, and recycling innovators, we explore where the system is currently breaking down—and the creative solutions shaping a more circular future. From mono-material films to diaper-inspired designs and return-to-retail programs, this conversation is anything but trash.

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Confused by conflicting headlines about pet nutrition? In this episode, we break down how to spot trustworthy research, avoid common pitfalls in scientific studies, and use AI tools to become a savvier, science-minded pet parent—no PhD required. Join co-hosts Jordan Tyler and Dr. Stephanie Clark with expert guest Dr. David Harmon as they speak truth to misinformation, give you the confidence to separate facts from fiction, and advocate for sound science when it comes to your pet’s health.

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🎙️ This episode calls back to several previous episodes:

Is your cat litter giving you red flags? In this episode of Barking Mad, we’re breaking up with clay and introducing six sustainable litter options that are ready to commit—odor control, low dust, and all. From corn and walnut shells to tofu and recycled paper, meet the brands turning trash into treasure and poop into performance. Join us as we play matchmaker and help you find the purr-fect partner for your cat’s litter box needs!

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⛏️ Read more about the ecological impact of strip mining for bentonite clay and silica.

🐱 Learn...

Get ready to go behind the scenes of Zoomark 2025—Europe’s largest pet industry trade show—and uncover what really separates European and American approaches to pet nutrition. From ingredient innovation to marketing tactics, this conversation explores why European pet owners demand proof on product claims, while those in the U.S. are often driven by emotion and storytelling. We’ll share insights from a six-week tour across the continent, revealing cultural differences that shape how we feed and care for our pets. Whether you’re a pet parent or industry professional, this episode provides an expert perspective into innovation...

What if your dog’s favorite treat could help fight climate change? In this episode of Barking Mad, we dive into the world of upcycled ingredients—nutritious, sustainable materials rescued from food waste streams and transformed into pet nutrition gold. Hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler are joined by industry leaders from the Upcycled Food Association, Ag Alchemy, and Trashy to explore how bakery scraps, carrot shavings, and even chicken fat are being reimagined through upcycling. Learn how these “scrappy” ingredients are reshaping pet nutrition, reducing environmental impact, and turning trash into treasure. Whether you're a pet parent or a bra...

In this episode, we tackle the growing threat of H5N1, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza, and its unsettling spread beyond birds into cats, dogs, and even dairy cattle. An expert panel from BSM Partners explains how the virus is transmitted, what makes it dangerous to pets and people, and why your pet’s food safety practices matter now more than ever. We break down the real risks and share actionable tips for safeguarding your home and pets. Lean on this episode in your quest to stay informed, stay prepared, and protect the companions who rely on yo...

What if the most nutritious food for your pet could also help heal the planet? Join us as we dig deep into the world of regenerative agriculture and what it means for the future of pet food. Co-Hosts Dr. Stephanie Clark and Jordan Tyler sit down with Angela Jackson of the Regenerative Organic Alliance, Caitlyn Dudas of Good Company, and the trailblazing team behind Cave Pets, the first certified regenerative organic pet brand, to unpack the science, the business case, and the tangible impact of regenerative practices—from boosting nutrient density in ingredients to rebuilding biodiversity on farms. (And st...

What do dog-friendly popcorn, AI-powered pet feeders, and feline chin acne have in common? They were all part of the conversation at Global Pet Expo 2025—and they tell a bigger story about where the pet care industry is headed. Join us in this exclusive episode as host Jordan Tyler takes you to the heart of the show floor, where tech innovation and nutritional trends collided. From smart feeding systems to shelf-stable cat meals with roots in raw nutrition, we explore true novelty in the pet tech category—and share an important message about the overall state of pet care inno...