Founder & Trainer at Faith Over Fear Dog Training 

With a passion that has grown over 8+ years alongside her four-legged friends, Cierra is a cornerstone of the Faith Over Fear Dog Training team. Specializing in the joys and challenges of working with puppies and helping shy dogs blossom, Cierra's approach to training is all about building confidence and trust, both in pups and their human companions.

Cierra holds a special place in her heart for the  Great Pyrenees, enchanted by their gentle nature and majestic bearing. Yet, her dream is to one day share her life with a noble Doberman Pinscher, admiring their loyalty, intelligence, and regal presence. 

When not dedicating herself to the art of dog training, Cierra embraces the great outdoors through kayaking and walking her dogs, finding peace and rejuvenation in nature's embrace. And when solitude offers its rare moments, she indulges in her love for singing, filling her home with melodies when no one else is around.

At the core of Cierra's personal and professional life is her favorite Bible verse, Isaiah 41:10: "fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." This powerful message not only guides her approach to overcoming challenges with faith and courage but also mirrors the ethos of Faith Over Fear Dog Training.

Co-Founder & Trainer at Faith Over Fear Dog Training 

With over 8 years of hands-on experience in the world of dog training, Justin Michalik is a passionate and dedicated professional who believes in turning challenges into triumphs. Specializing in working with reactive dogs and leading scent training sessions for activities like shed hunting, Justin finds joy and purpose in helping dogs and their owners forge stronger, more confident relationships.

A true admirer of the Belgian Malinois for their intelligence, agility, and loyalty, Justin dreams of one day owning an Ibizan Hound, attracted to their elegance and spirited nature. When he's not busy training or marveling at the capabilities of his canine students, Justin indulges in his favorite hobbies - photography and embracing the great outdoors. Whether behind the lens or exploring nature's wonders, he finds peace and inspiration in the beauty that surrounds him.

At the heart of Justin's philosophy and approach to life and dog training is his favorite Bible verse, Psalm 34:4: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears." This verse not only inspires the name of our training facility but also reflects the core belief that with faith, patience, and understanding, we can overcome any challenge and achieve great things together.

At Faith Over Fear Dogs, we believe that every dog has a story worth telling. Founded by husband-and-wife duo Cierra and Justin, our journey began in 2017 at a local dog daycare and boarding center in St. Louis. Our shared passion for dogs brought us together, and after both transitioning to another dog training business, we realized we wanted to create something special that combined our love for canine companionship with our entrepreneurial spirit.

In 2023, after starting our own dog training business and tying the knot, we proudly launched Faith Over Fear Dogs. While we continue to offer dedicated dog training services for pet owners seeking guidance and support, our focus has evolved to highlight our passion for dog photography.

We specialize in capturing the unique personalities of dogs, whether it’s a playful pup or a dignified Police K9. Our photography services extend throughout Missouri and beyond, allowing us to document the incredible bond between dogs and their humans in breathtaking imagery. We understand that each dog is a beloved member of the family, and our mission is to showcase their individuality and spirit through our lens.

At Faith Over Fear Dogs, we are committed to building a supportive community of dog lovers. Whether you’re looking for training advice or stunning photographs to cherish forever, we’re here to help you celebrate your furry family members. Join us as we continue to grow and evolve in the dog community, driven by our faith in the transformative power of the human-canine bond.

Let us tell your dog’s story—one paw at a time!