Billie Talyn Groom PhD(c) on Life, Lessons & Legacy

We recently had the chance to connect with Billie Talyn Groom PhD(c) and have shared our conversation below.

Billie Talyn, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
Many people want to make a difference in their community or even globally. They want to change their lives so they can help others, but they are not confident or feel as though they have the skills or ability. Many people work for organizations or companies that suppress their ideas or discourage their ambitions. Some are entrepreneurs with the ability to grow, but feel stifled and simply follow the status quo for fear they will be shunned.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello! I am best described as a “Solutionary” in the domestic animal welfare realm, meaning I not only advocate for sentience, humanity and animal liberation, but I also develop solutions to barriers to achieving these goals. Four decades of working hands-on with dogs led to the development of a method that prevents behavioral surrender, abuse and euthanasia and allows us, as humans, to relate to dogs on a deeper level. My journey was guided by the dogs who granted me the opportunity to learn from them, and despite (or perhaps in spite of) the push-back from mainstream, I have made an impact in the lives of countless animals and humans. I invite you to learn more and appreciate your interest.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Dogs. Working with dogs with challenging upbringings forces one to see ourselves for who we are. Hundreds of dogs put their trust in me, and always let me know when I stray from my purpose and what I believe in. Dogs never lie.

Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Plenty. It seemed impossible to fight against the larger organizations. I did not want to be seen as a rebel or fight against them. I was looking to collaborate to reach our mutual goal – to empower people with the skills to help dogs over behavioral issues and live comfortably. Their goal was to maintain a position of power, and this remains true; however, I have moved beyond their barriers.

So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The dog training industry convinces professionals that positive reinforcement training is the ONLY non-aversive, effective method, resulting in an on-going battle between trainers. Industry leaders that promote this method erroneously tell professionals that any other method is wrong or not evidence-based, and that unregulated industries, such as dog training, are the wild-west. This mindset only serves to prevent progress, discourage ethical curiosity, and allow aversive practices to continue due to perceived lack of options.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes! As an innovator and entrepreneur, it is important to stay focused on the larger goal. There are many steps that one must take that seem “a waste” and even a complete disappointment, but by continuing to push forward, the results show in sometimes the most unexpected of ways.

Podcasting and publishing a book are very challenging with little reward (unless they make it big!) Keeping up with social media, reaching out to colleagues, submitting to speak at conferences, are only a few of the ongoing tasks that may or may not “pan out”.

Loads of volunteer work often goes unnoticed, but it is valuable and impactful.

Pet parents and dog fosters have always been my biggest supporters, and their appreciation is most important, yet it took me a long time to realize that their success is valuable.

Eventually, things begin to meld together, and the impact speaks for itself.

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems,
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Highlighter Series
What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?

Coffee? Workouts? Hitting the snooze button 14 times? Everyone has their morning ritual and we

Highlighter Series
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?

Our deepest wounds often shape us as much as our greatest joys. The pain we

Highlighter Series
Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?

Culture, economic circumstances, family traditions, local customs and more can often influence us more than