MEET THE TEAM

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

Before opening up Riverview Bark and transitioning to this field full-time, he served as a Director of Client Services in the 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 believes that true success in dog training comes from empowering the human. When owners feel confident and clear in their leadership, it creates lasting change for both them and their dogs. His approach is tailored to each unique dog-human team, focusing on trust, structure, and clear communication to build stronger, more balanced relationships.

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

Certifications: Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA®), AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator, with continued education through multiple professional seminars and workshops.

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

Founder & Head Trainer

Alex Kim

Christian Garcia

Trainer & Behavior Specialist

Bio: Born and raised in Queens, NY, Christian’s passion for dogs began early—but it truly took shape during a five-year stay in Mexico, where he worked hands-on with street dogs in real-world conditions. That experience taught him the importance of patience, leadership, and clear communication when working with dogs from all walks of life.

After returning to the U.S. and navigating life post-COVID, Christian chose to pursue dog training full-time. He now specializes in behavior modification, leash reactivity, and building functional obedience that fits into the everyday routines of real people. His personal experience working with high-drive Pitbulls has further deepened his understanding of canine behavior and the power of strong human leadership.

Christian believes that true transformation in training starts with the human. His approach focuses on trust, structure, and communication—empowering owners to lead with confidence and build lasting, balanced relationships with their dogs.

Training Philosophy: Training the dog is only half the work—real success happens when we coach and equip the human, too.

Pack Member: Proud dog dad to two Pitbulls, Poison & Meanie.

Madison Tussey

SmartPlay 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:

  • 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