Brent on paws and positivity

I think it was Sarah Ban Breathnach who famously said, “The world needs dreamers and the world needs doers. But above all the world needs dreamers that do.” This is what I think of when I think of Brent Lindeque, the man behind Good Things Guy.

Brent has carved out a unique space in the media landscape as the man behind “Good News.” With a platform dedicated to uplifting stories and positive news, he’s built a community that finds solace and inspiration in the goodness of the world. But while many know him for the stories he shares about acts of kindness and human triumphs, there’s another passion that lies close to his heart: his love for animals.

With a schedule that would scare the pants off the most seasoned celebrity, we were very grateful to get an interview with Brent to chat about his love for his own pets as well as shedding some light on his work in everyday animal welfare.

THE FAMILY DYNAMIC

For those who follow Brent on social media, his pups are often the stars of his posts, a journey that began with his beloved Duke. This Cavalier King Charles Spaniel quickly became the heart of Brent and his partner Andrew’s family. It wasn’t long before their pack grew, welcoming Chelsey, another Cavalier who fit seamlessly into their lives. Duke and Chelsey left such a lasting impression that Brent and Andrew decided this was the breed for them.

When lockdown struck, the couple once again opened their hearts and home to Emma, a Cavalier puppy who brought a much-needed dose of joy and purpose during those challenging times. Emma kept Duke and Chelsey on their toes, but tragically, she passed away due to cycad poisoning. The loss was devastating, and their home felt emptier without her.

Brent has carved out a unique space in the media landscape as the man behind “Good News.” With a platform dedicated to uplifting stories and positive newAbout a year later, one of Brent’s fans, who had been following Emma’s story, reached out with an offer. They had a puppy they believed would be the perfect addition to Brent and Andrew’s family. Despite initial hesitation, Brent agreed to meet the pup, and it was love at first sight with Nova. Just two months later, Ruby joined the family, completing their pack.

While time has taken Duke and Chelsey across the rainbow bridge, their memories live on in Brent’s heart. Today, Nova, Ruby, and the family’s 19-year-old rescue cat, Smudge, enjoy a life of love and luxury. Smudge, a tiny but regal lady, once wary of touch, now rules the household with a gentle but firm paw, knowing she’s the queen among the dogs.

Advocacy in Action

Realising very early on that animal stories and positive outcomes of stories with animals was going to be a big part of The Good Things Guy movement, Brent was adamant that the welfares in South Africa needed a voice and someone to speak for them. “There is no doubt that charity is the backbone of this country.”

Brent’s advocacy for animal welfare isn’t just about giving animals a second chance; it’s about changing perceptions.

The Power of Storytelling in Animal Welfare

With The Good Things Guy posting at least 15 stories per day, Brent understands the power of storytelling. He knows that stories have the ability to change hearts and minds, to inspire action, and to make a lasting impact. This belief drives his work in animal welfare, where he uses his platform to shine a light on the issues facing animals today.

One of the most recent stories to have a great impact on not just Brent, but the country is that of Charlie, the Johannesburg Zoo Elephant who waited for more than four decades to find his way back to freedom. The story is a great example of what story telling can do. With over 42 000 signatures in petition, and individuals and organisations telling Charlie’s story, he was finally released from captivity and going through a programme in the Shambala reserve to reconnect him with his natural habitat.

Brent believes that the media has a crucial role to play in animal welfare.

Too often, he says, the stories that make headlines are the shocking ones—tales of cruelty, neglect, and suffering. While these stories are important, Brent feels that they only tell part of the story. “There’s so much good happening out there, so many people working tirelessly to make a difference,” he said. “Those stories need to be told too.”
Brent is particularly passionate about highlighting the work of animal rescue organisations. “When people see the difference they can make, they’re more likely to get involved,” he explained. “It’s about showing them that they can be part of the solution.”

Brent’s Advice for Animal Lovers

For those who are inspired by Brent’s work and want to get involved in animal welfare, his advice is simple: start where you are. “You don’t have to do something big to make a difference,” he said. “Even small actions can have a huge impact.”
Brent suggests starting by looking at the needs in your local community.

“There are always animals in need, no matter where you live,” he said. “Find out what local shelters or rescue groups are doing and see how you can help. While monetary donations are always at the top of the list of needs with welfare, you can also donate your time or foster an animal. These things all contribute to helping animals.”
Another important aspect of getting involved, according to Brent, is education. He believes that understanding the issues facing animals is crucial to making a meaningful impact. “The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to help,” he said. “Take the time to learn about the challenges and the solutions, and then use that knowledge to make a difference.”.

“There is no doubt that charity is the backbone of this country.”

A Legacy of Compassion

As our conversation drew to a close, it was clear that Brent Lindeque’s love for animals is more than just a personal passion—it’s a driving force in his life and work. Through Good Things Guy, Brent has created a platform that not only shares positive news but also advocates for those who can’t speak for themselves. His deep commitment to animal welfare is evident in everything he does, from the stories he tells, to the way he lives his life.

As the Good Things platform grows and Brent takes on more key notes, his work reminds us that one person can indeed make a difference, and that through compassion and action, we can all contribute to a better, more caring world.