ABA Series, Ep 18 - Podcast Show Notes

Annual Breeder Awards - Rising Star Winner 

In this special solo series of The Breeder’s Brew, I, the Canine Family Planner™ – take the reins without my co-host Isobel to spotlight the incredible winners of our inaugural Annual Breeder Awards (ABAs). These awards recognise breeders who are living out the Three Pillars of Responsible Breeding: Planning, Preparing, and Parenting.
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Today’s guest is Adam Mayle, winner of the Rising Star Award, a title that celebrates those who are proactively developing their breeding programme, sharpening their skills, and showing exceptional dedication to doing things the right way.

PODCAST TAKEAWAYS:

Building a Bloodline with Purpose

• Adam began his breeding with a mix of breeds before landing on Labradors as his long-term focus.
• Investing in Kaci, his KC-registered foundation bitch from fully health-tested lines, was a major turning point.
• His ideal Labrador combines the size and intelligence of a working type with the substance and blockiness of a show type.
• Every breeding is strategic, working toward that long-term vision while maintaining the welfare of his dogs.

Communication and Transparency Set You Apart

• Adam uses WhatsApp groups for each litter to keep families informed, connected, and supported.
• Puppy contracts and clear deposit terms have helped streamline the buying process and manage expectations.
• He collects references from past puppy owners, allowing new buyers to speak directly to his track record and ethics.

Mentorship and the Power of the Right Network

• Adam credits much of his success to mentorship—from Di Stevens of Wylanbriar to Sara’s HomeScan services.
• Having the right team around him (from ovulation testing to stud selection) has made breeding smoother and less stressful.
• His advice: if you're unsure, ask—and when someone gives you good advice, act on it.

Growth Without Compromise

• Adam is intentional about expansion, keeping his breeding programme manageable and welfare-driven.
• He’s developing a model that includes placing quality dogs with trusted local homes to keep them within the programme without overcrowding his own.
• As a father, husband and full-time worker, Adam’s approach to balance is both sensible and sustainable.

Adam Mayle represents what so many grassroots breeders aspire to become—driven by passion, grounded in learning, and committed to bettering the breed. His Rising Star Award recognises a breeder who doesn’t just want to produce puppies, but to build something that lasts. From strategic puppy contracts and waitlists to forming strong relationships with mentors and buyers alike, Adam is proving that ethical breeding is absolutely achievable for the everyday breeder.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Feeling inspired? There are several ways you can engage and grow alongside this amazing community of passionate puppy practitioners:

• Follow Adam’s journey:
  • Instagram: @adam.mayle
  • Kennel Page: @gaffaglory
• Join the Brew Crew:
  Our Brew Crew membership gives you access to exclusive content, catch-up calls, breeder briefs, community support and more. Whether you're brand new or years in, it’s the place to be for shared learning and connection.
• Enter the Annual Breeder Awards:
  Do you know a breeder doing things right—or maybe it’s you? The Annual Breeder Awards will be open for nominations and applications globally soon. Keep an eye on www.caninefamilyplanner.com or follow us on social media for updates.