https://iamthedelo.com/

Sign up for the mastermind here !

https://www.builtdifferentmastermind.com/

Buy Reignite Your Spark here

https://store.bookbaby.com/book/just-getting-started

All right, we're rolling back with another episode of "On the D-Low." If you've been with me for a while, you might notice—yep, the intro music is gone. A little too much? Maybe. But hey, we can sneak in a quick sample. There you go. Now, let’s dive right in.

This is episode 151, and today we’re talking about dogs. Why? Because I love dogs, and if you're listening, chances are you do too. My wife and I just added a third pup to the family—yes, we took the plunge. Another miniature Australian Shepherd, named Indy Ann DiLorenzo. And let me tell you, the power of the puppy is real. The tiny teeth, the instant bathroom breaks, the sudden vanishing acts—it’s all happening at once. Oh, and the nighttime squealing? Yeah, that too. But you know what? It's worth it.

Dogs bring so much joy, and today, I want to talk about all the benefits of having a dog. First, there’s the mental health boost. Science backs it up—petting a dog can lower stress, ease anxiety, and even help with depression. It’s that unconditional love, that excited greeting when you walk through the door, that ability to live fully in the moment that makes dogs so special. Unlike us, they aren’t doom-scrolling through social media or stressing over the latest news—they’re just happy to be here.

Then there's the physical health aspect. Daily walks, playing fetch, and just keeping up with a dog keeps you moving. My goal? 10,000 steps a day. And my dogs help me hit it. Plus, studies show dog owners tend to have lower blood pressure. I believe it.

Dogs also help with social connection. If you're single, having a dog is a great icebreaker. You take your pup to the park, a coffee shop, or a brewery, and boom—instant conversation starter. And if you’re not looking to date, dogs still bring people together through community events, dog training classes, and charities. When Kim and I got married, instead of gifts, we raised $5,000 for an animal shelter. Because, really, dogs give us so much—we love giving back.

Structure and routine? Dogs keep you on track. They know when it’s breakfast time, when it’s walk time, and when it’s time to relax. My dogs have better routines than some people I know. And with that routine comes a deep sense of purpose. They rely on you, and in turn, you become better at showing up—not just for them, but in other areas of life too.

And let’s talk about loyalty. Dogs are the ultimate ride-or-die companions. They’re there when you’re happy, when you’re sad, when you just need someone to sit beside you. And they protect. Maybe not my three—they’d probably just bark at an intruder—but plenty of dogs take their job as guardians seriously. I’ll never forget my childhood dog, Shotzi, running into the street to stop a car from hitting me while I was on my big wheel. That kind of loyalty? You don’t forget it.

Beyond that, dogs are just pure entertainment. They all have their own quirks and habits. Like Leia—say the word "bellies," and she flops over like a folding chair. Every time. And watching Indy navigate her new world? Non-stop laughs.

Now, I know what some people say—dogs don’t live long enough. And yeah, it’s heartbreaking when we have to say goodbye. But in the time we do have, they teach us everything about love, resilience, and living in the moment. Every dog I’ve ever had left an imprint on my life, and I wouldn’t trade a second of it.

So, whether you're thinking about getting a dog, already have one, or just love hearing about them—this episode is for you. Let’s celebrate man’s best friend and all the ways they make life better. Stick around, because I’ve got some great stories, insights, and maybe a few puppy training confessions coming your way. Let's get into it.