Leading the Pack The Show-Safe podcast

Leading the Pack: The Show-Safe Podcast” explores the people and values shaping a safer, more ethical future in the sport of dogs. Through conversations with different members of our community, we promote Integrity, Respect, Safety, Advocacy, and Collaboration—ensuring fairness and protection for all participants.

Subscribe and tune in each month! Join the conversation @show_safe

Contributors

Host

Michael Hill

Michael has been involved in the sport of dog shows since acquiring his first Great Dane at 17 years old. After completing his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, he started a full-time dog training business in 2016, which has now assisted thousands of dogs and their owners worldwide. He has since maintained involvement in dog shows as an owner, exhibitor and breeder with a variety of breeds (Great Danes, German Shepherd Dogs, Chihuahua, Golden Retriever and Doberman Pinschers).

He’s passionate about protecting the integrity of dog shows as well as the enthusiasts who find an outlet for their passions and talents in this venue. Media, education, and networking are all interests he hopes to utilize in support of the Show-Safe initiative.

Guests

Guest

Carissa Shimpeno

I was born into dogs, following in the footsteps of my mother, Gwen DeMilta, and grandmother, Joanne Satalino. As the third generation of Alisaton Kennels, I have bred over 150 champion Doberman Pinschers, including Top 20 winners, national specialty winners, and the 2009 Westminster Working Group winner. In 2015, Alisaton was named AKC Breeder of the Year.

I began junior showmanship at 11, representing the USA at Crufts and the World Dog Show in Vienna. As a professional handler, I campaigned the #2 dog in 2008, won Westminster’s Working Group in 2009, and was named AKC Registered Handler of the Year in 2019.

I serve on the DPCA Board of Directors and chair the Junior Showmanship Committee, revitalizing its funding and growth. I am also a founder of Show-Safe, a volunteer-driven movement dedicated to safety, ethics, and accountability in dog sports.

Guest

Jason M. Hoke

Jason Hoke is a second-generation dog enthusiast whose family bred German Shepherds, later becoming successful Great Dane and Dachshund breeders under the Jamara prefix. He competed in Junior Showmanship and became a top all-breed professional handler. After his handling career, he earned two culinary degrees and worked at prestigious restaurants, including the three Michelin-starred Inn at Little Washington.

Now based in Madison, WI, he volunteers for Take the Lead, GSAFE, and OUTREACH, supporting LGBTQ+ youth and community initiatives. As a judge, he has officiated in 32 countries, including 12 National Specialties and Westminster, Crufts, and the World Dog Show. He served as President of the Great Dane Club of America, sits on multiple boards, and is a Westminster commentator on Fox Sports.

Jason is excited to join Show Safe, reinforcing his commitment to youth and safety in the sport of purebred dogs.