Pet Sitter Confessional podcast

26:28

Squid Game is back—and this time, the knives are out. In the thrilling Season 3 premiere, Player 456 is spiraling and a brutal round of hide-and-seek forces players to kill or be killed. Hosts Phil Yu and Kiera Please break down Gi-hun’s descent into vengeance, Guard 011’s daring betrayal of the Game, and the shocking moment players are forced to choose between murdering their friends… or dying. Then, Carlos Juico and Gavin Ruta from the Jumpers Jump podcast join us to unpack their wild theories for the season. Plus, Phil and Kiera face off in a high-stakes round of “Hot Sweet Potato.” SPOILER ALERT! Make sure you watch Squid Game Season 3 Episode 1 before listening on. Play one last time. IG - @SquidGameNetflix X (f.k.a. Twitter) - @SquidGame Check out more from Phil Yu @angryasianman , Kiera Please @kieraplease and the Jumpers Jump podcast Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts . Squid Game: The Official Podcast is produced by Netflix and The Mash-Up Americans.…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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Pet Sitter Confessional is the go-to podcast for pet sitters who want to grow, learn, and feel seen. With over a decade of experience, Meghan and Collin share the real, behind-the-scenes life of professional pet sitting—from funny mishaps and tough lessons to business insights and personal stories. Each week, they interview fellow sitters and industry pros to explore what it really takes to thrive in pet care. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, you’ll find support, inspiration, and a community that truly gets it. Your story belongs here, too.

617 епізодів

#Business Owners

Pet Sitter Confessional

updated 2 дні тому

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617 епізодів

#Business Owners

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Pet Sitter Confessional

1
617: Building a Community Pet Store That Sticks with Morgan and Austin Weber 1:06:26

2 дні тому1:06:26

1:06:26

What happens when pet sitters take the leap into retail? Morgan and Austin Weber, 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. They reflect 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. Main Topics Transitioning from service to retail Staff training and team culture Community outreach and partnerships Inventory and product selection Preparing for business growth Main takeaway: “You don’t have to know everything about everything—you just need the right people passionate about the right things.” Running a business—especially in the pet industry—can feel overwhelming. From inventory and client care to marketing and employee training, there’s always something new to learn. But the truth is, you don’t need to be an expert in it all. What matters most is building a team where each person brings their strengths and passions to the table. When your fish lover geeks out over tanks and your dog nerd knows every ingredient in your food aisle, magic happens. Hire well, empower your people, and let their passion lead the way. Links: https://woofsandwaves.com https://www.instagram.com/woofsandwaves/ https://www.facebook.com/woofsandwaves Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Perennials Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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616: The Bankruptcy of Wag!: What It Means for Us 20:11

4 дні тому20:11

20:11

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. Main Topics Wag!’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy Gig economy pet care flaws Independent sitter advantages Investor market shifts Trust, consistency, and professionalism Main Takeaway: “Pet care isn’t like ride-sharing—you can’t just put a body in front of a dog and call it service.” Apps may make booking easy, but ease doesn’t equal quality. True pet care is built on trust, consistency, and connection—not convenience alone. Your clients want to know who’s walking their dog, how they’re trained, and that they’ll actually show up and care. That’s something no algorithm can guarantee. This is why independent pet care professionals matter now more than ever. Links: Episode 446 on Aggregation Theory Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo 2025 Business Summit…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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615: Boundaries, Budgets, and Burnout with Rachelle Steele 1:09:15

9 днів тому1:09:15

1:09:15

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. Main Topics Business mindset development Setting boundaries with clients Pricing strategy based on value Emergency fund and long-term planning Balancing emotion and professionalism Main takeaway: “I will defend my peace before I defend my pricing.” Let that sink in. As pet professionals, we often feel pressure to justify our rates. But what if we stopped negotiating our worth and instead stood firm on what gives us peace, freedom, and sustainability? That’s exactly what Rachelle Steele of Loving Arms Pet Services is doing. In our newest Pet Sitter Confessional episode, she shares how a business mindset, firm boundaries, and intentional planning have helped her build a fulfilling and resilient career. Links: Previously on Episode 419: https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/episodes/419 Website: lapskc.com Email: lovingarmspetserviceskc@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lapsforpets Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Perennials Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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614: How to Listen Instead of React 34:04

11 днів тому34:04

34:04

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. Main Topics Emotional regulation in business Handling online criticism gracefully Responding to client complaints Leadership through observation Protecting energy and mental health Main Takeaway: “Remind yourself that not everything needs a reply. Some things need maturity and margin and a deep breath.” In pet care—and business in general—it’s tempting to fire back immediately when someone questions your work, your policies, or your prices. But not every situation calls for a response. Often, the wiser path is observation: gathering context, cooling down, and responding with clarity rather than emotion. Protect your energy. Reserve it for the pets and people who trust you day in and day out. Leadership starts with emotional discipline. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo 2025 Business Summit…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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613: Transitioning from Full-Service to Specialty with Mandi Fleitz 57:06

16 днів тому57:06

57:06

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. Main Topics: Transition to cat-only business Work-life balance and career shift Value of niche branding Special needs cat care expertise Client communication and surveys Main Takeaway: “Just because we start something doesn’t mean it has to end looking anything like we started.” This reminder from Mandi Fleitz of Durham Cat Company is a powerful lesson for every pet sitter and small business owner. Over tia a me, we grow, our passions shift, and our needs change — and our businesses should evolve with us. Mandi’s story of transitioning from a full-service pet sitting company to a cat-only care business is proof that narrowing your focus can actually open more doors. By embracing her love for cats and creating a service tailored just for them, she built a business that works better for her life while serving her clients better too. Don’t be afraid to pivot — sometimes the best opportunities come when you let go of what no longer fits. About our guest: Mandi Fleitz is the owner of Durham Cat Company, a cat-exclusive pet sitting business in Durham, North Carolina. After several years running a general pet sitting and dog walking business, Mandi realized her passion and expertise were best suited for feline clients. With a background in fashion merchandising and retail management, Mandi transitioned into pet sitting in 2016 and has built a reputation for providing compassionate, specialized care for cats, including those with special needs. Today, Durham Cat Company is known for its stress-free visits and personalized care that puts cats’ comfort first. Links: Website: https://www.durhamcatcompany.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/durhamcatcompany Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/durhamcatcompany Beth Pasek’s Book & Resources (as mentioned): https://www.finickypet.com Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Peaceful Pet Music - Calm Music for Pets 🎶💜 From peaceful melodies to soothing nature sounds, this channel is your go-to spot when your pet is anxious and you don’t know where to turn.💜🐾 Subscribe now at https://www.youtube.com/@peacefulpetmusic…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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612: 13 Years, 13 Lessons: What We’ve Learned as Pet Sitters 38:01

18 днів тому38:01

38:01

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. Main Topics Licensing and insurance basics Client communication best practices Blocking and protecting time off Evolving with your business Valuing your time and boundaries Main Takeaway: We had to make changes because they were right for us… They were what we needed, both personally and as a business. After 13 years in the pet sitting industry, we’ve learned that not every decision will make everyone happy—and that’s okay. Whether it was shutting down boarding, raising prices, or walking away from house sitting, each change moved us closer to a business that aligned with our lives and values. You don’t have to say yes to every client or follow someone else’s path. You have permission to make bold choices that serve you , not just your business. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo 2025 Business Summit…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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611: Partnerships that Support Felines and Their Owners with Dr. Ashlie Saffire 48:51

23 дні тому48:51

48:51

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. Main topics: Building vet-pet sitter partnerships Understanding cat stress and anxiety Importance of routine in feline care Using pheromone therapy for calmer cats Certification and education for sitters Main takeaway: “Cats actually are a lot harder to care for than dogs… People are finally figuring that out.” Dr. Ashlie Saffire, feline vet and President of the Feline Veterinary Medical Association, joined us on Pet Sitter Confessional to talk all things cat care. As more pet parents recognize the unique needs of their cats, pet sitters have a vital role to play in supporting feline health. From routines to stress reduction to better communication with vet teams, we can make a big difference--if we take cats seriously. Let's give cats the thoughtful, professional care they truly deserve. 🐱💡 About our guest: Dr. Ashlie Saffire is a board-certified feline specialist and the current President of the Feline Veterinary Medical Association. She co-owns and practices at a feline-focused clinic in Columbus, Ohio, where she combines patient care with ongoing research, teaching, and veterinary leadership. Originally trained in equine medicine, Dr. Saffire transitioned to feline care after recognizing the unique needs and misunderstood behaviors of cats. She is passionate about educating both veterinary professionals and pet caregivers to raise the standard of feline health and well-being worldwide. Links: https://catvets.com https://catfriendly.com https://catvets.com/cat-friendly/certificate-program/ Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months National Association of Professional Pet Sitters: www.petsitters.org…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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610: The Trap of Loving What You Built Too Much 44:25

25 днів тому44:25

44:25

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. Main Topics The IKEA Effect in Business Emotional Investment vs. Functionality Feedback and Continuous Improvement Delegation and Scalability Building for the Future Buyer Main Takeaway: The best businesses are built to serve others, not to preserve our ego. As business owners, it’s easy to get attached to what we’ve created—spreadsheets, policies, even how we onboard clients. But clinging to what we built just because we built it can hold us back. The real strength comes from evolving, replacing weak spots, and asking hard questions like, “Is this still working?” or “Would I build this the same way today?” When we hold our systems loosely and commit to serving others excellently, we make space for growth, joy, and lasting impact. Build for service, not ego. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo 2025 Business Summit…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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609: Love 4 Dogs, Love for Community with Maricella Sauceda 1:02:01

30 днів тому1:02:01

1:02:01

What does it take to start over and succeed in pet care—twice? After moving from Los Angeles to Canada, Maricella Sauceda launched Love 4 Dogs Pet Services from scratch, building it into a thriving solo operation. When betrayal and burnout led her to scale back and start fresh in a new town, she leaned on resilience, community, and clarity to move forward. From seasonal adventure hikes to enrichment walks for senior dogs, she shares how custom services and strong boundaries have helped her stay passionate and present. Her evolving journey—including a surprising recovery from a cat allergy—highlights the power of trusting your instincts and staying true to your purpose. Main Topics Starting over in a new country Rebuilding after betrayal and burnout Offering seasonal and custom services Balancing business with community work Overcoming health challenges to grow services Main Takeaway: “I can reinvent myself again… because I’ve done it over and over.” Starting from scratch isn’t a failure—it’s proof that you’re adaptable, capable, and strong. Maricella Sauceda’s journey in pet care is a reminder that we’re not defined by setbacks, but by our willingness to keep showing up, keep serving, and keep dreaming. Whether it’s moving to a new country or recovering from betrayal, she proves that resilience and reinvention go hand in hand. If you’ve ever had to hit reset, this episode will inspire you to trust your experience and believe in your next chapter. About our guest: Maricella Sauceda is the owner and founder of Love for Dogs Pet Services based in Aurora, Ontario, just north of Toronto. Originally from Los Angeles, she moved to Canada in 2009 with her two beloved rescue dogs, Tazz and Jazz (may they rest in peace), who were more than happy to make the cross-country journey by her side. After months of research and planning, she officially launched Love for Dogs in 2010—building the business from the ground up with determination and care. Surrounded by animals her entire life, Maricella has a natural disposition that dogs and cats instinctively gravitate toward. As an only child, pets became her closest companions, a bond that still shapes her work today. She is certified in Pet CPR and has completed continuing education in Animal Behaviour and Welfare through the University of Edinburgh, and Dog Emotion and Cognition through Duke University. Her services include weekday dog walking, seasonal forest adventure hikes, and enrichment walks for senior dogs, along with select custom services for long-time clients. Now developing Love 4 Cats after recovering from a long-standing allergy, Maricella brings her signature personal touch to feline care. Deeply involved in her local community, she volunteers with Turtle Tias, serves on her child’s school council, and contributes to local town committees. Starting Love for Dogs has been one of the best decisions of her life—and her clients’ pets are better for it. Links: https://otcn.ca/location/turtle-tias/ info@love4dogs.ca http://www.love4dogs.ca Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Visit: petsit.com/join and use code ‘confessional15’ at checkout to save $15 off your first year!…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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608: Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Mid-Year Review 26:33

5 weeks тому26:33

26:33

How is your year going—really? In this episode, we share why doing a mid-year review is essential for personal and business clarity. We explore common reasons pet business owners avoid this process, from fear and overwhelm to unclear goals, and offer a practical roadmap to reflect, adjust, and move forward with purpose. We also dive into what to track, how to celebrate your progress, and how to simplify or pivot your goals. Mid-year is not just about performance—it’s about direction, clarity, and peace of mind. Main Topics Mid-year business reviews Setting and tracking goals Common pitfalls and course correction Simplifying services and processes Emotional and personal business reflection Main Takeaway: “Don’t let fear or busyness keep you from taking stock in what you have done.” We get it—running a pet care business is non-stop. But pausing to reflect on your year so far is not just helpful, it’s necessary. You deserve to know what’s working, what’s draining you, and what’s truly worth continuing. A mid-year review isn’t about shame—it’s about clarity and intention. Celebrate your progress, make intentional adjustments, and move into the second half of the year with renewed purpose. Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo 2025 Business Summit…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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607: Sustainability, Stress, and Success with Wendy Mackay 1:05:40

5 weeks тому1:05:40

1:05:40

What does building a sustainable pet care business look like? Wendy Mackay, founder and owner of Pet Sitters Nelson, shares her 20-year journey from backpacking traveler to thriving business owner, offering a fresh look at how community involvement and flexibility can drive success. She dives into how she developed her signature services like “doggy day outs,” and the power of group walks in rented paddocks. Wendy also opens up about facing burnout, overcoming serious health challenges, and reimagining her business to prioritize her well-being. Her story is a heartfelt reminder that pet care is about more than just animals—it’s about people, purpose, and balance. Main Topics: • Building a business from scratch • Community events and outreach • Group dog walks in paddocks • Burnout and stress management • Flexible service pricing models Main Takeaway: Business is business—it shouldn’t be your whole life. Wendy Mackay is the founder and owner of Pet Sitters Nelson, based in Nelson, New Zealand. Originally from England, Wendy moved to New Zealand over two decades ago and built her business from the ground up. Known for her innovative “doggy day out” adventures and deep community involvement, she has grown Pet Sitters Nelson into a team-based operation offering pet sitting, dog walking, and small animal boarding. Wendy is passionate about providing enriching experiences for pets while maintaining a strong work-life balance—especially after facing personal health challenges that reshaped how she views business and life. About our guest: Wendy Mackay is the owner of Pet Sitters Nelson, a pet care business based in Nelson, New Zealand. Originally from Nottingham, England, Wendy moved to New Zealand 22 years ago and discovered her passion for pet care after a friend introduced her to the concept of pet sitting. What started as a novel business idea in New Zealand has grown into a comprehensive pet care service that includes pet sitting, dog walking, and innovative "doggy day out" services. Wendy has been instrumental in building community awareness around professional pet care services in the Nelson area, organizing events and maintaining an active presence to connect with pet owners. As a business owner, Wendy has navigated significant challenges including market changes during COVID-19, increased competition, and personal health challenges including a breast cancer diagnosis. These experiences have shaped her approach to business, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance, setting boundaries, and building a reliable team to support service delivery. Wendy is known for her flexible approach to pricing and services, adapting to meet different client budgets and needs while maintaining high-quality care standards. Her journey demonstrates resilience in entrepreneurship and a commitment to providing exceptional pet care services to the Nelson community. Links: admin@petsittersnz.co.nz https://petsittersnelson.co.nz Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Perennials Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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606: The Power of Both/And Thinking 27:00

6 weeks тому27:00

27:00

In today’s pet care world, it’s easy to fall into false choices — between daycare and in-home care, solo sitters and teams, enrichment and exercise, and more. But these false dichotomies often lead to confused clients, bad service matches, and needless infighting between pet professionals. In this episode, we explore the most common false dichotomies in pet care, how they show up in client conversations and marketing, and how we as pet sitters and dog walkers can communicate more clearly and provide better care by embracing nuance. Because in pet care, it’s rarely either/or — and pets deserve better. Main Topics: False dichotomies in pet care Educating clients through conversation Marketing value over price Blending enrichment and exercise Embracing nuance in business decisions Main Takeaway: Clients have been sold so many false choices. They don’t know what to believe anymore. And that’s where we come in. As professional pet sitters and dog walkers, we’re not just providing a service—we’re a guide helping pet parents cut through the noise. Too often, they’ve been told it’s boarding or in-home care. That it’s enrichment or exercise. That it’s the neighbor or the pro. But the truth is, the best care often lives in the both/and . When we educate with empathy and lead with clarity, we help our clients feel confident—and pets get what they really need. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo 2025 Business Summit…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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605: Innovate & Elevate: Pet Care Synergy with Ines McNeil 57:25

6 weeks тому57:25

57:25

What happens when dog training meets pet sitting? Ines McNeil, APDT Chair, dives into how the pet care industry can benefit from cross-disciplinary collaboration. She explores innovative training methods, shared challenges, and evolving client expectations. Her conversation also highlights the impact of emerging regulations on pet care practices. Ultimately, she showcases how working together can transform care for both pets and their owners. Main Topics: Bridging Pet Training and Sitting Navigating Industry Legislation Challenges Innovative Dog Training Techniques Building Collaborative Pet Networks Enhancing Client and Dog Care Main Takeaway: “The more dog owners become educated, the more we can clarify which certifications really matter for a professional.” – Ines McNeil In today’s pet care landscape, when owners take the time to understand the value behind each certification, they become empowered to choose the best professionals for their furry family members. This increased knowledge helps cut through marketing hype and highlights trainers who are truly committed to quality care. Educated pet owners spark a demand for transparency and high standards, which benefits the entire industry. By fostering a community of informed decision-makers, we create an environment where excellence is recognized and rewarded, ultimately improving the lives of both pets and their families. About our guest: Ines McNeil, B.S. Biology, CPDT-KA, is a dog training industry expert with over 17 years of experience. She has operated dog training businesses in Texas and New York state in addition to working for a multitude of organizations as a professional dog trainer teaching group classes, private in-home lessons, and providing board and train services. She was an early adopter of virtual dog training back in 2014 and helped hundreds to trainers make the leap to virtual training at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020. In October 2014, she founded The Modern Dog Trainer, an industry-leading coaching company dedicated to mentoring dog trainers on the business side of their craft. Her mission is to ensure every community has access to skilled, modern dog trainers by empowering trainers to build successful businesses. She believes that when dog trainers thrive, more dogs get the help they need, and talented trainers gain the resources to make a greater impact. Her work for the APDT-I is an extension of this deeply personal mission. Outside of work, Ines is a mom to a talented and curious 6 yr old. She also shares her home and life with her husband, a Cardigan Welsh Corgi, a rescue Chihuahua, and a rescue cat named Kiwi ("Kitty" in toddler speak). Links: APDT-I website: https://apdt.com/ Webinar: Understanding Dogs Through Body Language and Behavior- https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/10007 Webinar: Audit Only- Learning Theory 101:Introduction to How Animals Learn- https://www.pathlms.com/apdt/courses/7461 Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Perennials Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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604: Marketing Pet Sitting in a Modern Experience Economy 26:32

7 weeks тому26:32

26:32

How should pet sitters adapt as client expectations shift? Camp Bow Wow is celebrating 25 years as a market leader in daycare and boarding. Their recent brand refresh and national pet parent survey offer valuable clues about where the pet care consumer mindset is heading — and what we, as dog walkers and pet sitters, can learn to better serve clients and compete in an increasingly emotional and experience-driven marketplace. In this episode, we explore insights from the survey, including the rise of the emotional experience economy, the power of community connection, and the growing demand for convenience and polished brands. We share why marketing outcomes—not just tasks—is now essential, and how refining the client experience can help us stand out. With practical examples, we discuss how small pet care businesses can thrive alongside big brands by leaning into our unique strengths. Main Topics Rise of the emotional experience economy Shifting client expectations for pet care Building community and client connection Marketing outcomes vs. checklists Streamlining client experience through tech and branding Main Takeaway: Pet care is no longer about just checking the box of functional care. It’s about selling the emotional experience and outcomes. Too often, we focus our marketing on what we do—feeding pets, walking dogs, refreshing water bowls. But today’s pet parents crave more than checklists; they want an experience. They want joy, enrichment, and peace of mind—for their pets and themselves. When you show them how your care brings happiness to their pets and reduces their own stress, you elevate your business beyond tasks. Don’t just market what you do—market how you make them feel. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! Check out ProTrainings Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram , Facebook , Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo 2025 Business Summit…

Pet Sitter Confessional

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603: The Mission of Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates with Kristin Holzapfel 52:26

7 weeks тому52:26