Explore every episode of the podcast Before The Q
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meet your Host | 27 Jan 2025 | 00:20:28 | |
Meet Rose and her dogs! | |||
| Before the Q Episode 2 - Agility takes two! | 15 Feb 2025 | 00:22:32 | |
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. | |||
| Fast Track to Success: Video Review Accelerating Your Agility Training | 28 Mar 2025 | 00:27:57 | |
this 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. | |||
| Before the Q Episode 3: Taking Effective Video of Agility Training and Trial Runs | 06 Mar 2025 | 00:14:16 | |
Effective video is not hard to get but these tips will make it even easier! | |||
| Focus, Flow and Visualization with Stefanie Theis! | 18 Apr 2025 | 00:38:44 | |
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 : | |||
| Cornerstone Foundation Skills in Agility with Sarah Espinoza-Sokal | 07 May 2025 | 01:02:20 | |
What 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—with your dog. How to connect with Sarah : https://www.facebook.com/share/1EvwEZ8QGF/?mibextid=wwXIfr Website : Agility Odyssey – Exploring the art and the heart of dog agility. | |||
| In the Loop | 27 Jun 2025 | 00:28:22 | |
In 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 - I suggest episode 12 loopy training of the podcast EQUIOSITY! Megan Foster I suggest Episode 3 Loopy Training of her podcast Fostering Excellence in Agility. Sarah Stremming - I suggest Location Specific Markers episode of her podcast Cog Dog Radio. Hannah Branigan https://hannahbranigan.dog I suggest episode 26 The movement cycle and loopy training of her podcast Drinking from the Toilet. Thanks so much for listening! I hope you enjoyed the episode. | |||
| Opting In - Canine Engagement in Agility with Megan Foster | 02 Jun 2025 | 00:49:35 | |
In 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. We also explore how engagement looks different in training vs. trials, how to handle those “in-between” moments like waiting your turn or walking to the start line, and where to begin if you’re just starting out. If you’ve ever wondered how to build stronger focus, motivation, and connection with your agility dog—this episode is for you. Connect with Megan - Home - Fostering Excellence in Agility | |||
| Training for Canine Confidence in Trials with Laura Waudby | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:35:43 | |
Laura 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 and ideas. @laurawaudby | Liinks - all the ways to connect with Laura | |||
| The Power of Mindset with Hélène Lawler | 13 Aug 2025 | 01:10:03 | |
In 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 - Home Page Free Mindset Resource: https://www.helenelawlercoaching.ca/oxygen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helene.lawler?igsh=MXV5em1maGF6bWxyZg== Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19m6E9YBBH/?mibextid=wwXIfr | |||
| Toys, Dogs & Reinforcement with Shade Whitesel | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:44:34 | |
In 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 Eye on Ion-Shade Whitesel | All things Dog teaching wise-from puppy up! | Patreon REGISTRATION opens September 22!! Toy class: Fenzi Dog Sports Academy - FE130: Toys - Developing Cooperation and Play Food marker class: Fenzi Dog Sports Academy - FF145: Food Cues and Markers: Powerful Reinforcement for Clean Training | |||
| Canine Fitness with Dr. Debbie Torraca and Tara Monahan | 20 Oct 2025 | 00:46:32 | |
In 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 Trainer | |||
| I’ll Be Over Here Enjoying Agility | 22 Nov 2025 | 00:15:50 | |
In 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 recognizing progress even when the Qs aren’t there. Plus — exciting news! Rose is launching a free YouTube vlog in December, including a run-analysis collaboration with Megan Foster. And yes… the new “I’ll Be Over Here Enjoying Agility” t-shirt will drop on Black Friday, with proceeds supporting the show!! Tune in, settle in, and remember: agility should feel fun, kind, and aligned with your values | |||
| Agility Adjacent Skill: Why the Down Stay Matters | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:20:30 | |
In 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! | |||
| The power of pre placed rewards with Laura Waudby | 27 Nov 2025 | 00:42:34 | |
Laura 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 Agility | |||
| An episode about errors with Dave Munnings | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:53:22 | |
In this episode of Before the Q, 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 Agility before the Q Vlog first installment - https://youtu.be/HWS6HMJ4Vjc?si=U4x6n5-fuNsnCuCs If you’re wondering how to support the podcast, the best way is to rate, review, and subscribe. It really helps the show reach more listeners. You can also support us by sharing the podcast with your friends. And don’t forget to check out our awesome T-shirts—definitely grab one if you want to rep the show! Before The Q / Swag for Organizations | Need Some Sun | |||
| Embracing the Journey | 29 Dec 2025 | 00:10:37 | |
In this episode of Before the Q, Rose reflects on her journey in podcasting, the importance of community support, and setting goals for the new year. She shares her excitement about upcoming projects, including a vlog and fundraising efforts, while encouraging listeners to reflect on the gifts that agility has brought to their lives. The episode wraps up with a call for listener engagement and a preview of future content.
Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone with Rose Cybulski - Podcast Episode with my coach https://youtu.be/gr_SZ8lS__s - EPISODE 2 OF VLOG
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| Process Over the Q: Playing the Long Game in Agility with Grace Heck | 15 Jan 2026 | 00:45:05 | |
Rose is joined by Grace Heck owner of Hounds of Heck—for a deep, honest conversation about mindset, process, and what success in agility really looks like. Grace shares her philosophy of process over results and why focusing solely on Qs and ribbons can actually hold teams back. Together, Rose and Grace unpack what it means to play the long game in agility—from handling pressure at the start line, to building trust with your dog, to redefining success even when the run doesn’t go clean on paper.
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| Happy Anniversary: Errorless Learning with Megan Foster and Sarah Espinoza-Sokal | 27 Jan 2026 | 00:48:51 | |
It’s the one-year anniversary of Before the Q! Megan Foster
Enjoyed this episode?
Here’s to another year of learning, questioning, and enjoying agility There is a pretty sweet giveaway going on on my Instagram and Facebook you should absolutely go check it out. | |||
| Shaping a Baddie With Lynna Feng | 10 Feb 2026 | 00:32:05 | |
In this episode, Rose chats with good friend of the podcast Lynna. They explore the unique challenges and triumphs of training a non-traditional agility dog, emphasizing the importance of building confidence, understanding canine behavior, and redefining success in the sport. Lynna shares valuable insights on the significance of reinforcement, the emotional dynamics of training, and the life lessons learned through their partnership. This episode is a testament to the joy and connection that can be fostered through patience and understanding. Also I kind of cant believe I have done 20 episodes! Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed the episode remember to subscribe and Rate the podcast on whatever platform you listening from!! | |||
| Becoming the Handler Your Dog Needs Lessons with Levi | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:13:05 | |
Rose shares her personal journey and insights on how to show up as the handler and trainer that your dog needs, especially during challenging moments in agility training and competitions. She emphasizes the importance of understanding your dog's communication, adjusting training strategies, and maintaining a curious, supportive mindset | |||
| All About Reward Placement with Kayl McCann | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:55:57 | |
In this episode, Kale McCann shares her extensive experience in agility, focusing on training philosophies, reward placement strategies, and building strong dog-handler relationships. Discover practical tips to enhance your training!
Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2faAHEvCRf1dDtpCntA1Mu?si=813bb3ea61d14b32 Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/McCannDogsAgility Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/mccanndogsagility/ Online Training: www.Patreon.com/McCannDogs YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/McCannDogsAgility McCann Dog Training YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/McCannDogs - 1.61 M subscribers | |||
| Becoming a Better Student of the Sport | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:12:45 | |
In this episode, Rose shares her personal journey of staying motivated and improving in agility training despite limited access to coursework due to her remote location and weather challenges. She discusses mindset strategies, the importance of intentional training, and how to make progress with what you have. Agility Odyssey - sign up for Sarah's emails here! https://www.instagram.com/before.the.q?igsh=cGp2em9lbXlwdHR2&utm_source=qr - it would sure be cool if you could give me a follow here! | |||
| Effective Verbal Cues with Fanny Gott | 04 May 2026 | 00:48:05 | |
In this episode, Rose chats with Fanny Gott about the importance of verbal cues in agility training, focusing on the metaphor of cues as green lights. They explore how to train effective verbal cues, the role of handling, and strategies to improve communication with dogs during competitions. Home - The Agility Connection membership site SIGN UP here and let Fanny know I sent you! Follow Before the Q on Instagram HERE Home - Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer - Thank you so much for supporting the podcast. Next cohort starts July 4th. | |||
| Trial Readiness with Anna Hinze | 25 May 2026 | 00:38:25 | |
This week Anna Hinze of Agility Campus and I sit down and have a conversation about trial readiness. There is a lot that goes into getting a dog ready to trial and a lot that goes into ensuring behaviors can hold up in the environment. There are some really great tips in this episode I hope you enjoy it. Anna's Newsletter signup : https://landing.agilitycampus.com/newsletter/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/agilitycampus?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== Home - Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer - check them out!! Stay in Touch with me- seriously you don't want to miss what's coming up! | |||