

Training Without Conflict Podcast
Training Without Conflict®
After 40 years of breeding, raising, and training dogs, Ivan Balabanov provides his expert insights on dog training that he’s developed throughout his 4 decades in the dog community. Ivan takes a deep dive into the mind of dogs with the help of incredible guests that will blow your mind and change your outlook on dog training and perhaps life in general!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 27, 2025 • 3h 4min
Episode Fifty-SIx: Mondioring Special
Hello trainers, I’ll keep this intro shorter. This time I have as guests few very accomplished trainers Shannon Faltak, Jessica Johnson, and Spencer Bowman.We talk about the complexities of French Ring, Mondio Ring and IGP, the breeds and type of dogs that are better suited for each sport, the different style of helper/decoy work, preparation for competition, and much much more. Enjoy

Feb 13, 2025 • 2h 13min
Episode Fifty-Five: Javier Mendoza-Diek
Today, I have an incredible guest with an inspiring journey—Javier, a talented dog trainer who proves that hard work and passion can take you far. However you have to take the risks and challenges in front of you. Originally from Honduras, Javier moved to the U.S. at just 16 years old with his father. He initially pursued a career in veterinary medicine, meanwhile working as a vet tech, but soon realized that dog training was his true calling.Javier started as an army of one experimenting with the possibility and eventually took the leap into full-time dog training. Eventually he also took the TWC course. Now, he runs a thriving business with over 20 employees, showing what’s possible when you commit to your passion. His story is a must-listen for anyone on the fence about making dog training their career. If you’ve ever wondered whether you should take that leap—this episode is for you.Ivan Balabanov is a 2-time World Champion dog trainer, Ot Vitosha Malinois breeder, trainer of Premier Protection Dogs and founder of the revolutionary Training Without Conflict® dog training system.For more information about Ivan Balabanov's Dog Training School and information on how to train your dog using the Training Without Conflict® system, check out: https://trainingwithoutconflict.comhttps://malinois.comhttps://premierprotectiondogs.comPlease like, comment, and share with your dog friends💪🏼

Jan 30, 2025 • 3h 15min
Episode Fifty-Four: Jason Purgason
In this engaging conversation, Jason Purgason, President of Highland Canine Training, shares insights from his 30-plus years in dog training, spanning law enforcement to specialized service dogs. He highlights the critical importance of matching dogs with their owners' lifestyles, especially those on the autism spectrum. Jason also addresses the need for ethical standards in the industry and rethinking dog training methodologies, particularly for detection dogs, advocating for evidence-based practices while emphasizing the power of community engagement in fostering a supportive dog training environment.

32 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 3h 2min
Episode Fifty-Three: Dylan Jones
Dylan Jones, a TWC-certified dog trainer renowned for handling tough cases, shares his passion for working with challenging dogs. He discusses the barriers new trainers face and the importance of trust in building relationships with dogs. Dylan advocates for innovative, humane training methods and reflects on the unique dynamics between trainers, dogs, and owners. He highlights the emotional challenges in dog training, especially in shelter environments, urging for ethical, force-free practices that prioritize canine welfare.

62 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 2h 41min
Episode Fifty-Two: Panel Discussion (Balabanov, Ellis, Hilliard, Cottee)
In a thought-provoking discussion, experts Stephanie Cottee, an animal behavior scientist, Stewart Hilliard, a behavioral neuroscientist, and legendary trainer Michael Ellis delve into the contentious AVSAB position statement on training methods. They challenge common misconceptions surrounding force-free and aversive techniques, highlighting the importance of a balanced approach to dog training. The panel emphasizes animal welfare, the psychological impacts on both dogs and their owners, and the need for evidence-based practices that advocate for resilience and a strong human-animal bond.

Dec 13, 2024 • 2h 57min
Episode Fifty-One: Jim Bradley
Training Without Conflict® Podcast Episode Fifty-One: Jim BradleyToday, I had an insightful conversation with Jim Bradley, who, for the past several years, has been dedicated to rescuing Malinois dogs on the side while maintaining a full-time job. Jim runs a rescue organization and has also gone trough my Training Without Conflict® Certification Program.In our discussion, we delve into the complexities of rehoming dogs, the current state of animal shelters, and explore potential improvements in how they operate. We also touch on the commitment it takes to volunteer in this field. Furthermore, we challenge the Force Free ideology, discussing how sometimes, in the face of real-world challenges, difficult decisions must be made beyond idealistic approaches. Get ready for a thought-provoking episode!Ivan Balabanov is a 2-time World Champion dog trainer, Ot Vitosha Malinois breeder, trainer of Premier Protection Dogs and founder of the revolutionary Training Without Conflict® dog training system.For more information about Ivan Balabanov's Dog Training School and information on how to train your dog using the Training Without Conflict® system, check out: https://trainingwithoutconflict.comhttps://malinois.comhttps://premierprotectiondogs.comPlease like, comment, and share with your dog friends💪🏼

Nov 27, 2024 • 2h 23min
Episode Fifty: Jacqui Zakar
Jacqui Zakar, a professional dog trainer from Perth, Australia, and founder of Dog Sense Training and Behavior, examines the troubling narratives in the dog training industry. She shares her transition from pharmaceuticals to dog training, revealing intriguing insights on accreditation and the necessity of diverse methodologies. The conversation tackles the complexities of training tools, such as prong collars, the ethical implications of varied methods, and emphasizes the need for informed practices that prioritize animal welfare and individual needs.

5 snips
Nov 8, 2024 • 2h 44min
Episode Forty-Nine: Dave Kroyer
In this engaging conversation, dog trainer Dave Kroyer, a seasoned expert in agility, AKC obedience, and nose work since 1999, shares personal anecdotes and insights with his longtime friend. They reflect on their journeys from competitors to judges in dog sports, emphasizing the joys of companionship with dogs. The duo explores the unique traits of Belgian dogs, the importance of endurance in training, and the evolving methods in the industry. Through humor and thoughtful reflections, they critique modern training practices while advocating for foundational principles.

Oct 18, 2024 • 2h 50min
Episode Forty-Eight: Mia Skogster
Training Without Conflict® Podcast Episode Forty-Eight: Mia SkogsterWelcome back to my TWC Podcast! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Mia Skogster once again to dive deep into discussions about our personal dogs, training, and IGP rules. We focused particularly on the ever changing landscape of training and what we would like to see in the future of our beloved sport.I hope you enjoy listening as much as we enjoyed having the conversation. This podcast is purely for the love of it—no paid advertisements, just fun and educational content. So, if you can subscribe and share with a friend, I am happy to keep providing more free information for all of you!Ivan Balabanov is a 2-time World Champion dog trainer, Ot Vitosha Malinois breeder, trainer of Premier Protection Dogs and founder of the revolutionary Training Without Conflict® dog training system.For more information about Ivan Balabanov and information on how to train your dog using the Training Without Conflict® system, check out: https://trainingwithoutconflict.comhttps://malinois.comhttps://premierprotectiondogs.comPlease like, comment, and share with your dog friends💪🏼

Oct 7, 2024 • 1h 32min
Episode Forty-Seven: Dr. Douglas Elliffe
Dr. Douglas Elliffe, a Professor of Psychology at the University of Auckland, delves into the fascinating world of animal behavior, particularly through his renowned Kiwi Aversion Training study. The conversation navigates the balance between rewards and fear in training, advocating for a nuanced approach. He also critiques existing training methods, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies to address modern challenges in canine training. Furthermore, Elliffe discusses the importance of scientific rigor in validating training programs, urging a shift towards objective truth in research.