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The Top Dog Podcast

The Top Dog Podcast

Top Dog Podcast with Stephen Knight | Leading with Purpose Through Crisis and Recovery

The Top Dog Podcast · Jun 2, 2026 · 26:59

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What happens when saving a dog also helps save a human life?

In this episode of Top Dog Podcast, we talk with Stephen Knight, Founding Executive Director of Dogs Matter, about building one of the most unique foster-based recovery programs in animal welfare.

After overcoming addiction himself, Stephen founded Dogs Matter to help people entering drug and alcohol treatment place their pets in temporary foster care — eliminating one of the biggest barriers preventing many individuals from seeking help.

In this conversation, we discuss:
• The connection between recovery and the human-animal bond
• Building a mission-driven nonprofit from the ground up
• Supporting people and pets through crisis
• Why temporary fostering can save lives
• Expanding compassionate community programs nationwide

Stephen also shares how Dogs Matter’s long-term recovery support model is helping people rebuild their lives while keeping their beloved pets by their side.

🐾Dogs Matter’s annual Tails of Triumph: A New Era event takes place on June 11 in Dallas, Texas, celebrating powerful recovery stories, second chances, and the transformative impact of the human-animal bond. The evening features client success stories, community celebration, artwork, and fundraising efforts supporting Dogs Matter’s expanding mission. Learn more here: https://www.dogsmatter2.org/tails-of-triumph

👉 Learn more about tools supporting animal welfare organizations at https://doobert.com/

Subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future of animal welfare.

Episodes: The Top Dog Podcast

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