629: Shaping Industry Standards with Jenn Dahinten, Chair of PACCC

629: Shaping Industry Standards with Jenn Dahinten, Chair of PACCC

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What does it really mean to be a professional in the pet care industry? In this episode, Jenn Dahinten, Chair of PACCC, joins to explore the importance of third-party certification in setting industry standards. She shares how PACCC was founded to support experienced pet care providers with recognition, ethics, and continuing education. The conversation dives into the rising pressure from legislation, public expectations, and why certification helps build trust with clients and lawmakers alike. Jenn also offers practical steps for those ready to elevate their professionalism.

628: Recovering from a Bad Hire

628: Recovering from a Bad Hire

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What happens when the excitement of growing your team turns into the disappointment of a bad hire? In this episode, we explore why failed hires sting so deeply, from the personal investment of time and trust to the disruption it causes clients, pets, and team morale. We share how rushing to replace too quickly can compound mistakes, while ignoring red flags or skipping feedback loops leaves you vulnerable to repeat issues. While every bad hire feels discouraging, it doesn’t have to define your business or your leadership. By giving yourself space to grieve, reviewing the clues left behind, strengthening your hiring funnel, and communicating transparently with your team, you can recover with resilience and make smarter, more confident hires in the future.

627: Profit Isn’t Just About Money with Morgan Weber

627: Profit Isn’t Just About Money with Morgan Weber

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What does it really mean to grow your business? In this episode, Morgan Weber of Lucky Pup shares why growth isn’t always the answer and how defining success on your own terms is crucial for long-term sustainability. She unpacks the danger of chasing vanity metrics, the importance of budgeting your time like your finances, and why business owners must avoid resentment and burnout. Morgan also explains how to build a “filter system” based on values and goals to guide decision-making. Whether you’re solo or scaling, this is an honest look at staying aligned in a world pushing constant expansion.

626: The Ho-Hum Pet Sitter

626: The Ho-Hum Pet Sitter

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What happens when the joy of pet sitting starts to fade into monotony? In this episode, we explore why the “ho-hum” feeling creeps in, from repetitive routines and emotional fatigue to physical exhaustion, isolation, and the comparison game on social media. We share how staying stuck in this flat season can impact client experience, dull attention to detail, and accelerate burnout. While monotony is a natural byproduct of sustained work, it doesn’t have to define your business. By shifting perspective, setting micro-goals, refreshing routines, learning something new, and prioritizing real rest, you can reignite your motivation and keep showing up with purpose for pets and their people.

625: Pet First Aid Essentials Every Sitter Should Know with Arden Moore

625: Pet First Aid Essentials Every Sitter Should Know with Arden Moore

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What should you do when a pet emergency happens on your watch? In this episode, Arden Moore returns to share practical, life-saving advice for pet sitters and dog walkers. From subtle signs of stress to new research on treating heatstroke, Arden emphasizes the importance of preparedness, adaptability, and calm communication. She also discusses the mental mindset needed to respond effectively and the benefits of her new self-paced CPR and first aid courses. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode will help you handle emergencies with confidence.

624: When the Pivot Hurts

624: When the Pivot Hurts

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What happens when your business no longer fits the market—or the law? In this episode, we explore the challenges of pivoting, from labor law changes to zoning regulations to personal burnout. We share stories of sitters who had to shift away from overnights, navigate the shift from independent contractors to W2 employees, or give up in-home boarding due to city requirements. While pivots can feel like rejection of our original vision, they also open doors to resilience, creativity, and new opportunities. Ultimately, give yourself grace, communicate with clients, and stay grounded in your mission of serving people and pets.

623: Helping Pet Birds Thrive with Dr. Jennifer Graham

623: Helping Pet Birds Thrive with Dr. Jennifer Graham

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How can we make sure we’re providing the best care possible for pet birds? Dr. Jennifer Graham, President of the Association of Avian Veterinarians, joins the show to discuss the crucial partnership between avian vets and pet sitters. From common health issues and behavioral cues to transport tips and nutrition red flags, Jennifer shares decades of wisdom to help pet sitters level up their bird care. She emphasizes the importance of consistency, observation, and cleaning routines, especially when dealing with exotic species. With practical resources and a collaborative mindset, pet sitters can confidently expand their services to feathered clients.

622: Who Are You Beyond the Leash?

622: Who Are You Beyond the Leash?

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What defines you—your own values or the labels others place on you? In 622: Who Are You Beyond the Leash?, Collin explores how identity shapes the way pet sitters run their businesses, set prices, and build relationships. He shares personal stories of being labeled “the dog people” and how that narrowed perspective almost overshadowed other parts of life. By reflecting on both external and internal labels, pet sitters can reframe limiting beliefs and reclaim their full identity. Collin offers practical exercises to help listeners move beyond labels, strengthen client trust, and protect themselves from burnout.

621: Weddings, Walks, and Winning Clients with Kaitlin Wood

621: Weddings, Walks, and Winning Clients with Kaitlin Wood

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Kaitlin Wood of Kaitlin’s Pet Sitting in Chattanooga, TN shares her journey from teenage sitter to full-time business owner. She discusses the evolution of her services, including her growing wedding assistance offering, and the importance of clear client communication. Kaitlin opens up about lessons in time management, setting boundaries, and the struggle of finding trustworthy team members. Her passion for pets and people shines through as she talks about building trust and delivering peace of mind.

620: The 10 Non-negotiables You Need in Your Policies

620: The 10 Non-negotiables You Need in Your Policies

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Non-negotiables aren’t just nice-to-have—they’re the backbone of running our pet care business. In this episode, we share the 10 essential policies and procedures we believe every sitter and walker should put in place. From cancellation and payment terms to health requirements and emergency plans, we explain why each matters and how we enforce them. We also talk about the dangers of bending rules too often and how exceptions can quietly become the norm. Through practical examples, we show how we protect our business, clients, and pets by keeping our boundaries clear and consistent.

619: From Silos to Synergy: Building Better Pet Care Together with Dr. Christie Cornelius

619: From Silos to Synergy: Building Better Pet Care Together with Dr. Christie Cornelius

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What happens when pet sitters and independent veterinarians start working together more intentionally? Dr. Christie Cornelius, Director of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association, joins the show to discuss the unique challenges and strengths of independently owned veterinary practices. She explores how pet sitters can play a pivotal role in improving pet health outcomes through strong communication and observation. The conversation covers evolving veterinary trends, AI integration, and practical ways to establish partnerships between sitters and clinics. Dr. Cornelius shares how trust, storytelling, and showing up consistently can build lasting community relationships.

618: Building a Self-Strengthening Business

618: Building a Self-Strengthening Business

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In this episode, we explore what makes a pet care business stronger over time. Using the example of Corten steel—designed to strengthen through exposure—we discuss how intentional systems and experiences build long-term resilience. We share six key areas to focus on, including SOPs, hiring, marketing, education, feedback, and boundaries. Each one is like a layer of protection that helps your business weather challenges and grow stronger. It’s an honest look at what it takes to build something that lasts.

617: Building a Community Pet Store That Sticks with Morgan & Austin Weber

617: Building a Community Pet Store That Sticks with Morgan & Austin Weber

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What happens when pet sitters take the leap into retail? Morgan and Austin, owners of Lucky Pup Adventures, share how they purchased and now run Woofs and Waves, a beloved community pet store in Sioux Falls. They dive into the differences between managing a service business and a retail space, including inventory, staff training, and community outreach. The couple reflects on their complementary strengths and how they divide responsibilities for long-term growth. They also share how they’re staying intentional about values, culture, and customer experience while preparing for potential future expansion.

616: The Bankruptcy of Wag!: What It Means for Us

616: The Bankruptcy of Wag!: What It Means for Us

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Wag!, one of the largest gig economy pet care platforms, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is undergoing a rapid restructuring. This episode explores the deeper issues behind Wag’s financial collapse, including its flawed business model, sitter churn, and lack of consistent, relationship-driven care. The discussion highlights how investor interest is shifting away from gig platforms toward higher-margin services like pet insurance and veterinary e-commerce. Independent pet care providers are uniquely positioned to meet modern client expectations through professionalism, trust, and personalized service. As the industry changes, quality and consistency are emerging as the new standard in pet care.

615: Boundaries, Budgets, and Burnout with Rachelle Steele

615: Boundaries, Budgets, and Burnout with Rachelle Steele

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Are you treating your pet sitting like a real business? In this episode, Rachelle Steele of Loving Arms Pet Services returns to share how she transitioned from a hobbyist mindset to confidently leading her company. She dives deep into boundaries with clients, why setting an emergency fund is crucial, and how she prices her services based on value—not competition. Rachelle also opens up about preparing for the future, possible expansion, and navigating the mental shift from animal lover to business leader. Her advice is practical, empowering, and a must-listen for anyone ready to stop winging it and start planning with purpose.

614: How to Listen Instead of React

614: How to Listen Instead of React

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Business owners often feel compelled to defend every policy and decision. We share a recent incident that brought that into sharp focus. We explore why learning to observe rather than react is a skill worth cultivating. From dealing with difficult client feedback to navigating aggressive Facebook comments, we share some personal stories and hard-earned lessons in restraint. Observation leads to better leadership, stronger boundaries, and a healthier business culture. Remember, not everything deserves a reply—sometimes the best response is no response at all.

613: Transitioning from Full-Service to Specialty with Mandi Fleitz

613: Transitioning from Full-Service to Specialty with Mandi Fleitz

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Have you ever wondered if your business could thrive by serving just one type of pet? In this episode, Mandi Fleitz, owner of Durham Cat Company, talks about her bold decision to transition from running a general pet sitting and dog walking company to exclusively serving cats. Mandi shares why she made the switch, how she navigated the emotional process of closing her first business, and the surprising benefits of becoming a niche specialist. She also discuss how cat clients’ needs have evolved, the importance of customized care, and what’s next for Durham Cat Company. Whether you’re thinking about niching down or just love hearing stories of business transformation, this episode is packed with insights.

612: 13 Years, 13 Lessons: What We’ve Learned as Pet Sitters

612: 13 Years, 13 Lessons: What We’ve Learned as Pet Sitters

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Over the past 13 years, we’ve built, paused, and rebuilt our pet sitting business across multiple cities and life stages. In this episode, we share the lessons that have shaped how we operate today—from getting licensed and insured, to listening closely to clients, and setting clear policies. We talk about the hard decisions that came with growth, like raising prices and ending services that no longer fit. We also reflect on the emotional journey of staying connected to our work while learning to lead with boundaries. It’s a candid look at the evolution of a pet care business and the people behind it.

611: Partnerships that Support Felines and Their Owners with Dr. Ashlie Saffire

611: Partnerships that Support Felines and Their Owners with Dr. Ashlie Saffire

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Are pet sitters and veterinarians really on the same team when it comes to caring for cats? In this episode, Dr. Ashlie Saffire, feline specialist and President of the Feline Veterinary Medical Association, joins the show to explore how deeper collaboration between pet sitters and veterinary professionals can dramatically improve cat care. She dives into common stress-related cat health issues, the importance of maintaining routines, and why understanding feline behavior is essential. They discuss practical tips for pet sitters—like using pheromones, documenting eating habits, and asking better intake questions. Dr. Saffire also encourages pet sitters to pursue certifications and reach out to local clinics to form partnerships built on trust and knowledge.

610: The Trap of Loving What You Built Too Much

610: The Trap of Loving What You Built Too Much

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Have you ever clung to a system simply because you built it? In this episode, we explore the IKEA effect—how emotional investment in our creations can unintentionally sabotage our pet care businesses. We unpack how pride and ownership can be both motivating and limiting, and how to know when it’s time to evolve. With practical examples from scheduling tools to onboarding procedures, we offer tools to recognize when you’re stuck. This is your invitation to build a better, more sustainable business—one that serves your clients, your team, and your future self.

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