The Westies & Besties Podcast

by Alex Griffin

Season 1

SAS & MI5 Secrets: How to Stay Safe in a Dangerous World | Situational Awareness!

Right now in the UK, over 200 people a day have their phones or belongings stolen… and most never see it coming. In this powerful episode of the Westies & Besties Podcast, host Alex Griffin sits down with former SAS operator and MI5 advisor Mick Hawkes to reveal the truth about situational awareness — the skill that could literally save your life. With over 24 years in the British military, including elite service in the 22 SAS, and decades working in global security across high-risk regions, Mick shares real-world insights from the front lines of danger — and how YOU can apply them in everyday life. From phone thefts and street crime to personal safety while walking your dog, this episode breaks down why so many people are vulnerable — and how to fix it. 🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs! 🔥 In This Episode, You’ll Discover: Why most people completely miss danger signals The biggest mistakes people make on their phones in public How criminals target distracted dog walkers Simple ways to instantly improve your situational awareness What SAS and intelligence professionals do differently Why self-defence alone won’t save you Real stories from covert missions, security operations & high-risk environments. 🔥Key Topics The biggest mistake in security: Assuming danger looks obvious and how distraction increases vulnerability Why mobile phones are the most stolen items and how distraction impacts situational awareness Practical steps to improve situational awareness and make it second nature The challenges in UK society regarding security mindset and the importance of proactive learning Insights into security training: Customization, realism, and the pitfalls of tick-box courses The significance of military experience in security roles and the brain drain from armed forces The potential for ex-military personnel to transform civilian security industry and gap in industry standards Emergency responses, active shooter training, and how to prepare for critical situations The importance of collaboration between military skills and civilian enterprise for national security How to assess vulnerabilities on private and corporate properties and implement cost-effective security measures 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts Resources & Links: Hawks & Co - https://www.hawkesandco.uk/ Hero Paws - https://heropaws.org.uk/

S1 · E21

Mar 17, 2026

1:54:01

Natural Dog Health is Booming: Here’s Why Westie Owners Are Leading the Way!

What happens when passion for Westies, natural dog health, ethical business, and dog nutrition collide? You build a movement. 🐾 In this episode, Alex Griffin of The Westies & Besties Podcast joins the Wags & Wellness with Rachel Down to share how Westies & Besties Magazine grew into a thriving dog community — championing responsible breeding, holistic dog care, and better nutrition for Westies, Labradors, and dog lovers everywhere. 🐶 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to never miss Westie tips, health advice, and dog owner stories! 💬 Comment below with your questions we love hearing from our community! 🔗 Share this video with friends who love Westies and dogs! The conversation also explores: The shift toward holistic and natural dog health Responsible breeding and the message: “Adopt, don’t shop.” The growing importance of nutrition — including bone broth for dogs The expansion into podcasting, YouTube, and new publishing ventures including Who Adores Labradors & Retrievers This episode is packed with insights for dog owners, pet entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about ethical business, community building, and improving dog health naturally. “We’re aiming high.” 🐶 What You’ll Learn: ✔ How Westies & Besties Magazine began ✔ Why community is everything for Westie owners ✔ The role of natural health and nutrition in dog wellbeing ✔ The future of ethical publishing in the pet industry ✔ What’s next for Westies, Labradors, and beyond 📌 Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:46 The Journey of Westies and Besties Magazine 06:07 Building a Community for Westie Owners 09:00 Ethics and Morals in Business 11:53 The Launch of the Podcast 14:51 Connecting with Westie Owners 17:38 The Importance of Natural Health 20:49 Exploring Other Dog Breeds 23:36 Nutrition and Health for Dogs 26:28 The Role of Bone Broth in Dog Health 29:38 Future Plans and Collaborations 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts

S1 · E20

Feb 18, 2026

47:12

The Future of Pet Retail: Insights from Clayton Payne!

🚀 The pet industry is changing fast — and if you don’t adapt, you’ll get left behind. In this episode of The Westies & Besties Podcast, we sit down with Clayton Payne, a leading voice in the pet industry with over 30 years of experience, to unpack what’s really happening behind the scenes of pet retail, e-commerce, veterinary innovation, and consumer trust. From the rise of e-commerce and global competition to the growing importance of specialisation, authority, and education, Clayton shares no-nonsense insights into what independent pet retailers and brands must do to survive — and thrive. We dive deep into AI in veterinary practices, how technology is reshaping customer relationships, and why transparency in pet food, nutrition, and sourcing has never mattered more. Clayton also explains why social media marketing isn’t optional anymore, how independent retailers can cut through the noise online, and why community and collaboration will define the future of the pet industry. This episode is packed with real-world experience, bold opinions, and practical advice for anyone working in — or passionate about — pets. 🐾 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to get all our Westie tips and expert advice. 💬 Comment below with your Westie’s quirks — we love hearing from our community! 🎧 In this episode, we cover: How the pet industry has evolved from retail to e-commerce Why independent pet stores must specialise and “own” their niche The impact of AI and technology on veterinary care Educating today’s pet consumer in a crowded marketplace Pet market trends and changing consumer behaviour Social media strategies for pet retailers and brands Transparency, trust, and value in pet products Building stronger communities within the pet industry 💬 Stand-out sound bites: “You need to dominate your sector.” “You can’t just put up any post.” “The more points of view, the better.” 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts 👉 Whether you’re a pet retailer, brand owner, vet professional, or pet industry entrepreneur, this episode offers a powerful look at where the industry is heading — and how to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving market.

S1 · E19

Feb 3, 2026

1:25:19

Bone Broth Miracle: Heal Your Gut, Boost Your Dog’s Health & Transform Wellness with Rachel Down!

Alex Griffin interviews Rachel Down of Boil & Broth and The British Broth Company on the benefits of bone broth for gut health, natural nutrition, microbiome balance, and holistic wellness for both humans and dogs. 🐾 Like this video, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 to get all our Westie tips and expert advice. 💬 Comment below with your Westie’s quirks — we love hearing from our community! Takeaways Rachel's journey into bone broth began after struggling with health issues post-pregnancy. Bone broth has significant benefits for gut health and overall wellness. The process of making bone broth involves boiling bones with water and apple cider vinegar. Bone broth can be beneficial for dogs, helping with digestive issues and overall health. The Biome Broth Study showed a 99% increase in beneficial gut bacteria in dogs after consuming bone broth. Natural nutrition is becoming increasingly important as people seek alternatives to processed foods. Self-reliance and home cooking are essential in today's food landscape. Bone broth can help reduce symptoms related to various health conditions. Quality sourcing of ingredients is crucial for effective bone broth. The podcast aims to educate listeners on natural health and wellness practices. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Bone Broth and Rachel Down 01:13 Rachel's Personal Health Journey 06:18 The Birth of Boil & Broth 10:12 Understanding Bone Broth: Process and Benefits 20:17 Bone Broth for Dogs: Health Benefits and Usage 25:36 The Biome Broth Study: Insights and Findings 34:02 The Shift Towards Natural Health Solutions 36:44 Navigating Information Overload 37:25 The Benefits of Bone Broth 38:04 Gut Health and Its Importance 39:24 Natural vs. Processed Supplements 41:06 Introducing Bone Broth to Dogs 43:08 Sourcing Quality Ingredients 46:23 Understanding Bone Broth Quality 49:02 Consumer Awareness and Transparency 51:47 The Financial Benefits of Natural Health 53:06 The Impact of COVID on Health Awareness 55:03 Food Security and Self-Reliance 57:54 Practical Steps for Home Preparedness 01:00:49 The Future of Food and Control 01:02:21 Connecting with Rachel and Resources 🌐 Website: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/shop/ 🎙 Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/20GvIwQaOpJKEUxVPCsRmk?si=3b8babc4c70d4864 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-westies-besties-podcast/id1845688452 📸 Instagram: @westiesbestiesmagazine | Facebook: @WestieBestieMag | TikTok: @westiesandbestiesmag 🎥 More videos & Shorts: @WestiesandBestiesTV/shorts For more information on Bone Broth Study: https://boilandbroth.com/pages/the-biome-broth-study-results

S1 · E18

Jan 20, 2026

1:10:06

Flying High: The Rise of Pet Travel!

In this episode of the Westies and Besties podcast, host Alex Griffin interviews Adam Golder, co-founder of K9 Jets, a pioneering company in the pet travel market. They discuss the rise of pet-friendly aviation, the unique experiences offered to pets and their owners, and the growing demand for private jet travel for pets. Adam shares insights into the company's inception during the COVID-19 pandemic, the types of customers they serve, and the logistics involved in pet travel, including documentation and health considerations. The conversation also touches on popular dog breeds, travel routes, and the future of the pet travel industry. Reach out to Adam at: K9 Jets - Private Jet Charter for Pets - K9 JETS Takeaways K9 Jets was born out of the COVID-19 pandemic. The demand for pet-friendly aviation has surged post-COVID. Flying pets in the cabin is often more affordable than cargo. The experience for pets and owners is designed to be stress-free. Documentation requirements vary by destination, especially for the UK. Medication for pets can be brought on board if approved by a vet. Golden retrievers and Labradors are among the most popular breeds flying. London to New York is the most traveled route for pets. The pet travel market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Partnerships with pet-friendly accommodations are essential for growth. Sound bites "It's a very relaxed experience." "The US is easier really to get in." "London to New York is our most popular route." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pet Travel Trends 01:12 The Birth of Canine Jets 04:38 The Demand for Pet-Friendly Aviation 06:30 Understanding the Customer Base 10:06 The Travel Experience for Pets and Owners 11:59 Documentation and Regulations for Pet Travel 15:09 Medication and Health Considerations 18:59 Popular Dog Breeds and Destinations 23:55 Future of Pet Travel Market 27:34 Innovations and Partnerships in Pet Travel For more Westie related information click here: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/ Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/WestieBestieMag https://www.instagram.com/westiesbestiesmagazine/ https://www.tiktok.com/@westiesandbestiesmag

S1 · E17

Jan 14, 2026

41:19

Revolutionizing Pet Nutrition: The Raw Feeding Movement with Mersey Raw!

In this episode of the Westies and Besties podcast, host Alex Griffin interviews Ben McIntyre, the founder and CEO of a rapidly growing raw dog food company in the UK. They discuss the journey of transitioning to raw feeding, the challenges faced in the pet food industry, and the importance of educating pet owners about nutrition. Ben shares his personal story of how he became passionate about raw feeding after experiencing health issues with his own dog. The conversation also touches on the regulatory landscape, the relationship with stockists, and the future of raw feeding as more pet owners become aware of its benefits. Click here to find out more about Mersey Raw!: https://www.merseyraw.com/ Takeaways Ben's journey into raw dog food began with a desire to feed his own dog a healthier diet. The raw feeding industry is experiencing significant growth due to increased awareness of pet nutrition. Building strong relationships with independent stockists has been crucial for business success. Transitioning to a raw diet can be daunting for pet owners, but guidance is available. Regulatory bodies play a vital role in ensuring the safety of raw pet food. The sourcing of meat for raw feeding is often from reputable suppliers, ensuring quality. Veterinary practices are increasingly recognizing the benefits of raw feeding. The kibble market's dominance raises concerns about dog health and nutrition. Consumer awareness is key to changing perceptions about pet food. Ben's company aims to feed 100,000 meals a day by 2030. Sound bites "I was like a dog with a bone." "We started in a really small cafe." "We are inspected to the eyeballs." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Raw Feeding and Business Success 02:18 The Journey into Raw Dog Food 05:42 Challenges and Growth in the Industry 09:23 Transitioning to a Purpose-Built Facility 12:07 Building Relationships with Stockists 14:49 The Rise of Raw Feeding Awareness 17:42 Product Development and Customer Education 20:33 Quality Assurance and Sourcing Meat 24:44 Navigating Animal Health Regulations 27:52 Product Development and Innovation in Pet Food 29:05 The Role of Veterinarians in Pet Nutrition 31:34 Critique of Commercial Pet Food Industry 34:19 The Impact of Diet on Dog Health 38:21 Changing Perceptions of Dog Food 38:42 Economic Benefits of Raw Diets 40:03 Building a Positive Company Culture Watch FULL episodes on our YouTube channel: https://youtube.com/@westiesandbestiestv?si=JuTwRIbzGnsJW4-Q For more Westie related information click here: https://westiesandbestiesmagazine.com/ Follow us on social media: https://www.facebook.com/WestieBestieMag https://www.instagram.com/westiesbestiesmagazine/ https://www.tiktok.com/@westiesandbestiesmag

S1 · E16

Jan 6, 2026

48:45

1 of 3

The Westies & Besties Podcast

From Puppy Mill Survivor to Advocate: Kayla's Story | Carolyn Lee

Unlock the Power of Red Light Therapy for Your Dog — Safely and Effectively!

How Three Westies Changed My Life and Inspired My Crime Novels!

Pumpkin's Journey: A Westie's Fight Against Disability!

SAS & MI5 Secrets: How to Stay Safe in a Dangerous World | Situational Awareness!

Natural Dog Health is Booming: Here’s Why Westie Owners Are Leading the Way!

The Future of Pet Retail: Insights from Clayton Payne!

Bone Broth Miracle: Heal Your Gut, Boost Your Dog’s Health & Transform Wellness with Rachel Down!

Flying High: The Rise of Pet Travel!

Revolutionizing Pet Nutrition: The Raw Feeding Movement with Mersey Raw!