Why We Built This Table

In the first episode of The Whole Pack podcast, holistic pet health practitioners Sunny Gandara and Melissa Sherman introduce their judgment-free space for challenging black-and-white thinking in pet care and supporting a truly integrative approach that can include western medicine when needed.They share how polarization and confusion in the holistic pet health world inspired them to create a community focused on the individual animal rather than rigid “right vs. wrong” protocols.Sunny recounts her 20-year career as a chef and how losing her dog Nacho to hemangiosarcoma led her into canine nutrition, TCVM, herbalism, and developing her concert of “parallel nutrition” for humans and dogs.Melissa describes leaving a 20-year financial services career, finding Reiki for anxiety, and being shaped by experiences with her cat Jolie and dog Denny that expanded her work into nutrition, homeopathy, animal communication, and energy modalities.They preview episode two on bio-individuality and why cookie-cutter protocols can harm, and close with an educational disclaimer to consult veterinarians.00:00 Welcome to Whole Pack00:42 Why This Podcast Exists02:23 Sunny’s Chef Roots03:43 Nacho’s Wake Up Call04:53 Training and Parallel Nutrition06:46 From Overwhelm to Results08:10 What Keeps Sunny Going10:03 Melissa’s Wall Street Past11:15 Reiki and Energy Work12:58 Jolie and Denny Lessons15:56 Leaping Into Full Time18:37 What’s NextDisclaimer:This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian or a qualified professional regarding your animal’s health.If you enjoyed this conversation, consider subscribing to The Whole Pack on Substack or wherever you listen to podcasts.Follow The Whole Pack:Instagram: @thewholepack_Facebook: @thewholepackYouTube: @thewholepackConnect with the hosts:Melissa Sherman – Calming CreekWebsite: calmingcreek.comInstagram: @calmingcreekhealingSunny Gandara – Nacho Average Dog Health CoachWebsite: nachoaveragedoghealthcoach.comInstagram: @nachoaveragedoghealthcoach This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewholepack.substack.com