Meet Nia Williams

We were lucky to catch up with Nia Williams recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Nia, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is something I’ve struggled with throughout my educational and professional life over many years. I vivdly remember starting my Master’s program and thinking I didn’t belong, especially being one of the only Black people in the room. With starting my own business, I often questioned (and sometimes still do) if I’m good enough or worthy enough to educate others on how to establish the best relationship with their dogs.

I think the biggest thing that helped me manage overcome syndrome is seeing the results of my efforts and work, hearing and seeing my clients’ success stories, and knowing that I’m making an effort to help others the best way I can. In my career, it’s actually crucial to have an open mind, understand that you don’t know everything, and continue to learn more about the field. There’s a strange peace in accepting the unknown that gives you comfort in what you do know and can provide.

I also think having a supportive community of family, friends, clients, and fellow dog trainers is very important- I wouldn’t be here without them.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

My name is Nia Williams, owner and head trainer of Capp’s K9 Connections- Behavior, Nutrition, and Wellness. I’m a born and raised LA native, with over 5 years of experience in dog behavior, nutrition, and training. My passion for dog training was inspired by my dog Cappuccino, who I rescued from South LA Animal Shelter in 2018. It was our personal training journey that influenced and encouraged me to help others learn how to build a better relationship with their own dogs. I’ve been training for over 3 years and am excited to work with you.

Capp’s K9 Connections is dog training and nutrition service that believes a relationship based off mutual respect, trust, and love is the best way to create an ever-lasting bond with your pet. I use my knowledge of dog behavior and nutrition to meet your dog’s needs, with the end goal being a calm, relaxed and confident dog. I have a unique approach that focuses on relationship based training- combining obedience, leash work, and balanced training methods to show you how your dog sees and understands the world. I train YOU how to communicate with YOUR dog! My dual approach with training and nutrition allows for me to see the whole picture and ensure that all dogs feel their best physically, mentally, and emotionally. Encouraging a calm, relaxed, confident dog requires for me to see each dog as an individual, so I develop training and nutritional plans specific to your dog. I currently offer private training sessions in home or at a local park, nutrition counseling, and pre-adoption counseling. I’m also hoping to start a group training class on the weekends soon!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Diligence- I’ve always had a strong work ethic and passion for animals. I think doing something you’re passionate about or at least working towards some sort of goal will help you improve on this the most. Yes, it’s important to live in the moment, but I also think it’s important to have something to work towards and create actionable steps to ensure you reach it.

Growth Mindset- one thing I love to focus on is having an open mind and always being adaptable/flexible. This is one that definitely takes practice, but one way to improve is if you fail at something, instead of giving up, think more on how you can improve for next time. A growth mindset is rooted in failure, learning, and resilience.

Passion for education- I’m someone that always loves to learn new things and strives to understand the world through as many lenses as possible. As a result, I do my own research, listen to opposing views, and learn multiple methods which all help expand my knowledge. This allows for me to have a more well-rounded approach with my clients. Accepting that you don’t know everything and seeking out as much information as you can will help develop this. You can start really small with reading one new article a week or doing a workshop with a field expert twice a year.

Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?

My ideal client is someone that just wants to do the best for themselves and their dog! I want people who are ready to work and enthusiastic about creating a lasting bond with their pet. I would love for them to be eager to learn and have an open mind. Creating a relationship with love, trust, and mutual respect doesn’t always come easy- it requires consistency, patience, and motivation.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ck9connections
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/capps-k9-connections-los-angeles