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440: The Last-Minute Rush: Balancing Business and Boundaries in Pet Sitting

Nov 20

Nov 20 440: The Last-Minute Rush: Balancing Business and Boundaries in Pet Sitting

Ever wondered how to handle those last-minute pet care requests? We delve into the complexities of accommodating such bookings in the pet care industry, focusing on the implications for scheduling, employee satisfaction, and maintaining client relationships. We also explore the nuanced topic of job sharing, discussing its advantages and challenges, and its impact on client trust and business operations. This episode offers insights on setting boundaries, implementing fees, and tailoring policies to strike a balance between meeting business needs and responding to client demands.

380: The Pet Business Owner Toolbox

Apr 24

Apr 24 380: The Pet Business Owner Toolbox

What tools does it take to build a business? As the business owner, you need to be equipped with the right tools to grow and run a successful business. We break down 10 tools we think every pet business owner should have in their tool box, and why they help you run a better business. Everything from organization and policies, to mindsets and personal development are needed, but you get to decide how they’re implemented for you. The best tools are the ones you know how to use and fit how you work.

367: Getting the Most out of Your Insurance with Colleen Giles-Harris

Mar 8

Mar 8 367: Getting the Most out of Your Insurance with Colleen Giles-Harris

You pay for insurance, but is it protecting you? Running a business means we have to understand the risk we take on with the services we offer. As your business changes, so too do your insurance needs. Colleen Giles-Harris, Underwriter with Pet Sitters Associates, joins the show to walk us through the questions we need to ask about our businesses to make sure we are covered. She explains where the homeowners insurance comes into play during a claims process and why it matters the kind of pets you’re caring for. Colleen also shares how to properly document for a claims process and how to approach minimum-level of care concerns.

247: Why We Hired

Jan 10

Jan 10 247: Why We Hired

Have you thought about hiring? We have. A LOT. We recently hired for the first time and will be doing a series of episodes on what the process was like for us. Hiring isn’t always the answer to our struggles in business, so we break down some of our reasons for deciding it was time to hire. We also give you some questions to think through if you’re on the fence. Then, Natasha O’Banion answers, “How do I get over my fear and make big changes?”

223: Starting a Pet Care Business

Oct 18

Oct 18 223: Starting a Pet Care Business

What are the business fundamentals for a pet sitting or dog walking business? Do you know someone who wants to run their own pet care biz but doesn’t know where to start? On this episode, we discuss how to get started. From a plan and getting a business license, to checking out insurance, we walk through what you need to have in place, and share from our own experience. Then, Natasha O’Banion answers, “How do I forgive myself after I make a mistake?”

215: Can You Have Profit First?

Sep 20

Sep 20 215: Can You Have Profit First?

Can you have profit first in your business? Wouldn’t you need to be making 6-figures? What systems would you need to have in place to make that happen? We recently read the book, “Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz and wanted to share our initial thoughts about it. We break down who we think this system would be good for, and some of the things that don’t quite fit with a service industry like pet care. Overall, we think it’s a great system if you need something to control your money and understand the health of your business. Then, Natasha O’Banion answers, “How do I be a great first time manager?”

213: Health Insurance Basics with Scott Dowling

Sep 15

Sep 15 213: Health Insurance Basics with Scott Dowling

Do you have health insurance? Some believe it’s not necessary or may be too expensive, but as entrepreneurs, there are many reasons why it's critical to have some level of coverage for you, and even your staff. Scott Dowling, insurance broker and host of Doxcost, breaks down the misconceptions around health insurance and how to find an affordable policy. Scott shares how health insurance has changed over the years and what our options are for health insurance as a sole-proprietor. We also discuss exactly what an HSA is and why it's one of the best ways to get coverage for less.

Aug 23

Aug 23 206: Bootstrapping Your Business

Have you ever wondered how to grow a business organically and not take on extra debt? We break down what bootstrapping your business looks like from the ground up. We discuss the critical expenses in a new business and, once you’re making money, where you should consider reinvesting into your business. From websites and Google My Business, to licenses and continuing education, there are ways to save money. Bootstrapping is the process you apply to your goals and objectives for your business. Then, Natasha O’Banion answers, “How do I become more mindful?”

202: Overcoming the Struggles to Hire

Aug 9

Aug 9 202: Overcoming the Struggles to Hire

The job market has really changed in the last 6 months. Unfortunately, it corresponds to the increase in demand for pet care services. Many of us are facing a daunting task of trying to hire staff in the middle of one of the toughest job markets in a long time. Today, we outline ways to use more than just financial incentives to attract staff. From paid benefits to connecting to core values of your business, there are ways to compete for the staff you want and need. Then, Natasha O’Banion answers, “How do I empower others?”

201: Risk Management and Insurance with Colleen Giles-Harris

Aug 4

Aug 4 201: Risk Management and Insurance with Colleen Giles-Harris

We know we should have insurance. It’s a critical component of protecting you and your business from potentially costly claims. Sometimes though, it can be overwhelming to wade into all of the terms and conditions. Colleen Giles-Harris, Underwriter and Manager of the insurance program for Pet Sitters Associates, joins us again to clarify common misunderstandings of insurance coverage. She breaks down the do’s and don’ts of the claim process, so nothing gets held up. Insurance policies will also have exclusions, which you need to be aware of. Colleen explains what the most common ones are and how that plays into risk management as a business.

163: Insurance with Colleen Giles-Harris

Mar 24

Mar 24 163: Insurance with Colleen Giles-Harris

The world of insurance can seem overwhelming, but Colleen Giles-Harris, Manager and Underwriter with Pet Sitters Associates, joins us to discuss what we need to know about being fully protected as pet care professionals. Colleen shares what it means to recognize the liability we're exposed to and how even with waivers we still need insurance to protect us. We also discuess why using your personal insurnace isn't the best idea and how not all insurance policies are created equal.

123: Back to Basics - Daycare

Nov 16

Nov 16 123: Back to Basics - Daycare

We continue our Back to Basics series with daycare! We share how we provide daycare, what screening looks like, and what kind of clients typically seek out small, in-home care. Natasha answers the question, “How do I start stepping away from my business?”

113- The Gig Conversation

Oct 12

Oct 12 113- The Gig Conversation

An article was written recently about a survey of 100 pet owners who used Rover. The result? The owners thought the Rover sitter had all the same qualifications as an independent pet care provider. On the podcast, we discuss the implications of this and what we can do. Natasha O’Banion is BACK to answer the question, “What do I do if someone wants to sell me their business?

093- One Year Podcast Anniversary

Aug 10

Aug 10 093- One Year Podcast Anniversary

Today's episode is our one year celebration! We dive into listener questions, from our background to some podcasting basics. Thank you so much for all of your support. We appreciate you going on this journey with us! Natasha also joins us to answer the question, "Do we really need insurance?"

028 - Streamlining Your Business

Feb 19

Feb 19 028 - Streamlining Your Business

We discuss some business basics everyone should have in place as a pet care professional. We then dive into some of the major areas to focus on when streamlining and making your processes more efficient. From intaking new clients, to paying your bills, there always seems like there are things to improve on. However, at the end of the day, focusing too much on wringing out every last drop of efficiency can actually make you less efficient! So remember that you know the work that has to get done and trust those around you.

008- Running Your Business

Oct 9

Oct 9 008- Running Your Business

How do you track expenses as a small business? How do you smartly manage your time? Is it time to hire an employee? On this weeks episode, we answer these questions, and many more!