Central Bark: A Guide Dogs for the Blind Podcast

Hosted by Guide Dogs for the Blind

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Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Central Bark shares the stories and conversations that make Guide Dogs for the Blind's life-changing mission so unique. Join our host, Theresa Stern, and special guests as they discuss how lives are changed every day through the special partnerships created between people, dogs and communities. Learn everything you ever wanted to know about our pups (from guide dog DNA to training techniques), and we’ll introduce you to the amazing people in our community, including clients, staff, volunteers and supporters.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 12, 2026Episode 6323 min

Summer Safety Tips for Dogs

Summer is here, and while many of us look forward to spending more time outdoors, hot weather can pose serious risks for our dogs. In this episode of Central Bark, we talk with Guide Dogs for the Blind Veterinarian Dr. Rebecca Satterwhite about how heat affects dogs and what every dog owner should know before heading outside. From hot pavement and dehydration to water safety and recognizing the signs of heatstroke, we cover practical tips that can help keep dogs safe, healthy, and comfortable all season long. Whether you're a guide dog handler, a puppy raiser, or simply love dogs, this conversation offers valuable insights on safely navigating summer activities. We'll discuss common misconceptions about exercising dogs in warm weather, how to identify heat-related emergencies, and the simple precautions that can make a big difference when temperatures climb.

May 8, 2026Episode 6221 min

Kids and Guide Dogs: Growing Up Together

What is it really like to raise children alongside a working guide dog? In this episode of Central Bark, we talk with GDB client, Juanita Herrera, about the everyday realities of parenting with a guide dog in the home. From setting boundaries to building strong relationships, this conversation explores how guide dogs and kids learn to live and thrive together. We’ll hear how routines evolve, how children learn to understand a working dog’s role, and how families create safe, respectful, and loving environments for everyone. Whether you’re already a parent, considering a guide dog, or just curious about how it all works, this episode offers practical insights and honest reflections from lived experience.

April 13, 2026Episode 6129 min

Finding Your Voice: Advice from an Experienced Advocate

In this episode, we hear directly from Day Al-Mohamed, a guide dog handler, policy executive, award-winning filmmaker, and science fiction author about her advocacy journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way. She shares practical advice for new advocates, from getting started to navigating challenges. We also explore ways the broader community can engage in advocacy, highlighting opportunities to make a meaningful impact and support one another in creating change.

April 1, 2026Episode 6024 min

From Awareness to Action: Resources for Meaningful Impact

In this episode, we kick off Advocacy Month with a conversation about what meaningful advocacy looks like and how our community can take action in informed, sustainable ways. Kirsten French, Guide Dogs for the Blind Manager of Community Education and Advocacy, will discuss how GDB is expanding our advocacy work and the resources we are launching to support our entire community on their advocacy journey. We will also hear from Steve Elliot on our alumni board about the Alumni Advocacy Toolkit - what it includes, how to use it effectively, and how it can strengthen your advocacy efforts while protecting your well-being. Whether you are new to advocacy or already actively engaged, this episode provides practical direction, structure, and support for getting involved.

March 26, 2026Episode 59

Orientation using Tech and Remote Assistance

What happens when guide dog travel meets emerging technology, and the right human support? In this episode of Central Bark, we explore how tools such as smart glasses, smartphones, and remote assistants can help guide dog handlers navigate unfamiliar places with greater confidence. Guide dog handler Alan Holst and orientation assistant Rachel Nelson join us to talk about how they’ve developed a system that combines technology, planning, and trusted communication to reduce uncertainty and expand independence.

March 6, 2026Episode 58

The Heart of the Partnership: The Relationship Behind the Harness

What makes the bond between a guide dog handler and their dog so unique? In this episode, we explore the deeply layered relationship at the center of every guide dog partnership; one built not only on training and skill, but on trust, identity, and shared movement through the world. While guide dogs are often recognized for the independence they provide, the emotional connection between handler and dog is just as profound. Our guest, Beth Gustin, LPC, shares insight into how trust is formed in high-stakes environments, how a guide dog can become woven into a handler’s sense of self, and how working side by side strengthens both companionship and confidence. We also talk about visibility in public spaces, what it means to be seen as a team, and how each partnership shapes a handler’s capacity for resilience and love.

February 26, 2026Episode 57

Communicating With Your Dog

Dogs are always communicating; we just have to learn how to listen. In this episode, we explore what it really means to communicate with our dogs and how strong, trusting relationships are built over time. From body language and behavior cues to consistency, patience, and mutual respect, we dig into the everyday moments that shape the bond between humans and their dogs. GDB Training Class Supervisor, Stacey Ellison, shares insights on how dogs express their needs, emotions, and boundaries, common communication mistakes people make (often without realizing it), and simple ways to strengthen trust through clear, compassionate interaction. We also talk about how communication evolves as dogs grow, age, or experience change, and how being more present can transform the relationship on both ends of the leash. Whether you’re a guide dog handler, puppy raiser, or devoted dog lover, this conversation offers practical takeaways and thoughtful reflections to help you deepen your connection and better understand the dog by your side.

February 5, 2026Episode 5523 min

Ky Wiese, Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist

Orientation and mobility training is essential to safe, confident, and independent travel for people who are blind or visually impaired. In this episode of Central Bark, an on-staff Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist (COMS) at Guide Dogs for the Blind shares expert insight into how GDB’s Orientation and Mobility Immersion Program supports clients at all stages. Learn how core O&M skills prepare individuals for successful guide dog partnerships and independent travel, and how training is tailored for real-world environments such as urban travel and public transportation. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the expertise, accessibility, and innovation that empower independence through Guide Dogs for the Blind.

January 29, 202638 min

International Guide Dog Federation

In this episode of Central Bark, we’re joined by David Maynard, Executive Director of the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF), and Susan Armstrong, Vice President of Client Programs at Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB), for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, collaboration, and the future of the guide dog industry. Together, David and Susan explore how IGDF sets global standards that guide high-quality guide dog programs worldwide and how international partnerships between organizations like IGDF and GDB strengthen services for people who are blind or visually impaired. They discuss emerging trends and innovations in guide dog training, breeding, and client support, as well as the shared challenges and opportunities shaping the field. The conversation also looks ahead, examining how equity, access, and global collaboration will continue to influence the evolution of guide dog mobility. Whether you’re a guide dog handler, puppy raiser, industry professional, or longtime supporter, this episode offers valuable insight into how leadership and partnership are driving the future of guide dog services locally and around the world.

January 20, 2026Episode 5420 min

Careers and Canine Connections 2026

In this episode of Central Bark, host Theresa Stern explores Careers and Canine Connections, a unique program empowering young adults who are blind or visually impaired to navigate careers, independence, and guide dog readiness. Joined by Jane Flower from Guide Dogs for the Blind, Richard Rueda from the American Printing House for the Blind, and program alum Melina Mendoza, the conversation highlights how career education, mentorship, and hands-on guide dog experiences come together to create life-changing opportunities.