MEET THE TEAM

Bio: Alex’s work is grounded in over five years of hands-on experience, ongoing study, and a ongoing passion for canine behavior. He specializes in behavior modification and building functional obedience that fits into real life.

Before opening up Riverview Bark and transitioning to this field full-time, he worked in a fast-paced corporate world, where he developed a strong foundation in leadership and communication. That experience taught him how to break down complex concepts, meet people where they are, and build trust - skills that now play a central role in his coaching style.

Alex’s approach is straightforward, honest, and centered on what will actually move the needle for you and your dog. His philosophy is simple: real progress starts with the human. When owners feel confident and consistent in their guidance, dogs naturally follow. Every program is tailored to the unique dog-and-owner team, with a focus on trust, structure, and clear communication to create meaningful, lasting change.

Training Philosophy: Lead with empathy, guide with structure. Behavior change starts with trust—and ends with empowerment on both ends of the leash.

Pack Member: Proud dog dad to Jodie (English Staffy).

Founder & Head Trainer

Alex Kim

Madison Tussey

Manager & Training Assistant

Bio: Originally from Indiana, Madison made the leap from small-town life to the fast pace of NYC after graduating from Purdue University with a degree in Animal Sciences, focusing on Pre-Veterinary studies. She recently settled into Jersey City and is loving her new home (and new adventure) on the East Coast.

With hands-on experience working in veterinary clinics, animal kennels, and leading a dog daycare team, Madison brings a calm, compassionate energy to every dog she works with. While she’s still exploring where her path in the animal world may lead, one thing is clear—she’s always felt most at home around animals.

Though she currently lives with her beloved cat, Madison is excited to be diving deeper into the world of dog behavior and training in her role as SmartPlay Manager. Whether it’s building relationships with clients or supporting pups in their play and training journeys, she’s here to make sure every dog has a positive, enriching experience.

Fun facts about Madison:

  • Pet CPR and First Aid Certified

  • Her favorite breed is the Australian Shepherd—she loves their energy and intelligence

  • She’s been part of color guard and winter guard since she was 10 (ask her about it!)

  • Outside of dogs, she enjoys curling up with a good book, creating art, and binge-watching her favorite shows

Amani Aviles

Daycare Assistant

Bio: Amani is a full-time student on a long-term path toward a career working with animals. She’s currently studying Biotechnology at Hudson County Community College with plans to transfer to Rutgers for Animal Science — and eventually, vet school!

From dogs to reptiles, Amani has grown up surrounded by animals her entire life. Between caring for her own pets and volunteering with service dogs in training, she’s developed a strong passion for animal welfare and behavior.

Fun Facts about Amani:

  • She loves to bake homemade treats for her dogs birthdays

  • Proud dog mom of two Shiba Inus (Storm and Loki) and one Pomeranian (Kodi)

  • When she’s not busy with school work, she enjoys being artsy, taking trips to the beach to collect sea glass and shells, and discovering new music. 

Chrissy Natalie

Trainer

Bio: Chrissy’s love for animals started early. She grew up spending her free time volunteering at a local animal shelter, which really shaped her compassion and understanding of dogs of all personalities. But everything truly clicked when she adopted her poodle, Maggie. Maggie came with her own quirks and challenges, and helping her work through them pushed Chrissy to dive deeper into canine behavior.

After a few years in the corporate world, Chrissy decided to follow her heart and jump into dog training full-time and she’s never looked back.

Now, she’s all about helping owners build strong, confident relationships with their dogs, giving them the tools and guidance to handle whatever comes their way.

Fun Facts:

  • She is a proud cat mom to Justice and Hero (who act more like dogs).

  • Her and her BFF visit one national park every year.

  • Outside of work, Chrissy loves to hike, exercise, and travel.