Join me on a Latvian beach for a very special episode recorded in my VendaVan with four incredible dogdancing champions from Slovakia and Czech Republic. After supporting my dear friend Monika at the Dogdancing World Championship in Finland (where she placed 4th in Heelwork!), we were all driving home together when we stopped for this conversation.

Meet Alexandra Vavrova, Alexandra Mišková, and Monika from Slovakia, plus Alena Smolíková from Czech Republic - true legends of dogdancing who stepped out of their comfort zones to share their stories in English (which I deeply appreciate!).

We dive into the fascinating world of dogdancing - did you know one routine contains around 50 tricks? We explore how they create these extraordinary performances, teach complex tricks, and navigate the challenge of keeping dogs focused for 4 minutes without taking shortcuts to the reward. Plus a deep conversation about expectations - are they real pressure from others, or mostly in our own heads?

A beautiful blend of friendship, sport, and honest reflection recorded on the road.

Get to know our amazing guests better by watching their incredible dogdancing performances:

Monika: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?mibextid=wwXIfr&v=4758760227569713&rdid=35WCuQ4bXrbE8Em8

Follow Monika's educational dogdancing content on Patreon: www.patreon.com/dogdance

Alexandra Vavrova: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXmdcBIQsfA

Alexandra Mišková: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d2aVS9Weo08

Alena Smolíková: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MV9FzRHnndI

These videos showcase the artistry and skill we talked about in the episode - including some of those 50+ tricks that go into each routine! You'll see exactly what makes these champions so extraordinary in the dogdancing world.

Thank you to all four ladies for your dedication to the sport and willingness to share your experiences - it made this such a special episode.