How do you navigate the financial uncertainties of running a business? Anne-Marie Kaden, from Tiny Paws Bookkeeping highlights the importance of regularly monitoring financial health and utilizing key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure your business adapts and thrives in changing markets. She emphasizes managing labor costs effectively, planning for cash flow variations, and leveraging historical data to make informed decisions. Through strategic financial management, business owners can better prepare for seasonal fluctuations and unexpected expenses, ensuring sustainability and growth ..read more

Are you balancing the roles of leader and manager in your pet business effectively? In this episode, we delve into the distinct yet overlapping responsibilities of leadership and management. Leaders set clear visions, inspire their teams, and embrace change, while managers ensure daily operations run smoothly by planning, organizing, and monitoring tasks. We discuss how solo pet care entrepreneurs must juggle both roles to succeed. Tune in to discover tips on empowering your team, developing emotional intelligence, and continuously improving your leadership skills. Main topics: Leadership vs ..read more

What fears do you have about hiring employees? Many business owners find themselves needing to hire to achieve a better balance, grow their business, or both. However, several fears can prevent them from moving forward. Today, we share the three biggest fears and challenges associated with hiring employees and how to overcome them. It all comes down to having a process that isn't just about getting the right people in the door but also about training and managing the right people well to maintain high standards. Main topics: Overcoming hiring cost fears Maintaining control with employees ..read more

Does hospitality translate from restaurants to pet care? Ken Botts, owner of Creekside Critters Pet Sitters, shares his journey into the world of pet care. He discusses the importance of community engagement, effective hiring practices, and the parallels between providing excellent service in restaurants and pet sitting. Ken emphasizes the role of heart-driven hospitality in building trust with both human clients and their furry companions. Main topics: Transition from food service Importance of hiring practices Community engagement strategies Marketing and brand presence Leadership and team ..read more

How do you transition from a corporate job into full-time pet care? Lori Holt shares her journey from working in customer service to founding Stow Road Pet Sitters. She discusses the challenges of administrative tasks, the importance of empathy and trust in client relationships, and how her family plays a crucial role in her business. Lori also highlights the lessons learned from a dog bite incident that led to stricter client screening processes. Join us as we explore Lori's inspiring story of passion, growth, and dedication to exceptional pet care. Main topics: Administrative Burden and Cha ..read more

Are you ready to future-proof your pet care business against emerging technologies like robotics? We explore the transformative potential of automation in pet services and how it might affect traditional business models. We delve into strategic adaptations inspired by the digital transition of Encyclopedia Britannica, highlighting the importance of evolving with changing market demands. Additionally, we discuss overcoming challenges related to regulatory changes and insurance in the pet care industry. By embracing technological advancements and refining business strategies, pet care profession ..read more

Are you struggling to understand a dog's anxious or reactive behavior? Fanna Easter, owner of Positive Pooch Behavior, dives into the nuances of canine anxiety, distinguishing between general anxiousness and separation anxiety. Fanna emphasized the importance of addressing the root causes rather than just managing symptoms, highlighting the role of pet sitters in observing and responsibly handling these behaviors. She also discussed the critical nature of professional collaboration between pet sitters and behavior consultants to ensure the best outcomes for pets. This insightful conversation p ..read more

Ever wondered how to spot a genuine business partnership opportunity from a marketing ploy? We discuss the red flags to watch for when approached by potential partners. We share our own experiences with high-pressure sales tactics and emphasize the importance of setting boundaries and conducting thorough research. You'll learn how to maintain control during negotiations and make informed decisions. Tune in to hear valuable tips on protecting your business from misleading offers. Main topics: Identifying partnership red flags Handling high-pressure sales tactics Evaluating genuine partner ..read more

Have you ever wondered how neurodivergence can shape the way a business is run? In this interview, Ilana Engel, owner of Park Slope Pups, shares her journey as a neurodivergent business owner with ADHD. She discusses the unique challenges and strengths that come with managing a pet care business while being neurodivergent. Ilana emphasizes the importance of using tools and strategies, like technology and structured methods, to succeed. She also highlights the benefits of hiring neurodivergent staff and the need to break down stigmas and misconceptions. Main topics: Impact of ADHD on Business ..read more

What inspires and motivates you? To celebrate our 500th episode, we share some of our favorite quotes, reflect on their meaning and how they helped us. We share quotes on finding your priorities, setting boundaries, taking ownership of responsibility, as well as embracing a love of learning. Life of a dog walker and a pet sitter is full of ups and downs. While we look to our mission and our values to guide us and lead us through tough times, sometimes we need a little extra encouragement along the way. If you have a quote that encourages you to keep going, please share it with us! Main topics ..read more