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1.5K to 9K🎙 Daily cadence·690 episodes·Last published 2d ago - Monthly Reach
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Recent episodes
705: The Numbers You're Ignoring (and Why They Matter) with Chante Dawston
Jun 3, 2026
Unknown duration
704: Working at 150% (Without Breaking Yourself)
Jun 1, 2026
Unknown duration
703: Cat Sitting Roundtable: A Maturing Industry
May 27, 2026
Unknown duration
702: Stop Typing the Same Thing Twice
May 25, 2026
Unknown duration
701: Leaving False Happiness Behind with Shaheen Riaz
May 20, 2026
Unknown duration
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6/3/26 |  705: The Numbers You're Ignoring (and Why They Matter) with Chante Dawston | Ready to earn a CEU? Start here! Are you truly making money in your pet care business, or just staying busy? In this episode, we sit down with CPA Chante Dawston to unpack what "knowing your numbers" actually means. We explore why record keeping is more than a tax requirement and how it directly impacts your decision-making. We also discuss cash flow, profit, and the hidden dangers of growing without understanding your costs. This conversation will help you move from guessing to confidently leading your business with clarity. Main topics: Importance of financial record keeping Profit vs cash flow clarity Budgeting and expense planning strategies Pricing adjustments and inflation impact Building consistent financial habits Main takeaway: "I think the biggest thing that can be a superpower for you in your business, on the financial side, is consistency." Consistency doesn't sound flashy. It doesn't feel like a breakthrough strategy. But when it comes to your finances, it might be the most powerful habit you can build. You don't need hours of analysis or a finance degree to start understanding your business. You just need to show up regularly. Even 15 minutes a week can completely change how you see your numbers. That small rhythm builds awareness. Awareness builds confidence. And confidence leads to better decisions. If you've been avoiding your numbers, don't overhaul everything overnight. Just start showing up consistently—and let that habit do the heavy lifting. About our guest: Chante Dawston is a CPA and the owner of C Squared Accounting, a firm specializing in financial services for small businesses in the pet care industry. With over a decade of experience, including time as an auditor at Deloitte, she brings a strong analytical and practical approach to business finances. Chante helps pet care professionals better understand their numbers, improve profitability, and build sustainable financial systems. She is passionate about making accounting accessible and actionable for everyday business owners. Links: Ready to earn a CEU? Start here! Website: https://petcare.c-squaredaccounting.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/csquaredaccounting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantedawston/ Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Critter to turn insights into action. Use 'PSC20' for 20% off your first three months Pet Marketing Unleashed Visit: petmarketingunleashed.com Use code PSC15 to save 15% on your website template | — | ||||||
| 6/1/26 |  704: Working at 150% (Without Breaking Yourself) | How do we survive the seasons when our business demands more than we feel capable of giving? In this episode, we discuss what it means to operate at 150% capacity and why some seasons require extraordinary effort. We explore the difference between temporary sacrifice and permanent overload, along with the systems that help us endure difficult periods without destroying ourselves. We share practical strategies for protecting sleep, simplifying decisions, preserving non-negotiables, and reducing decision fatigue. Most importantly, we talk about planning your recovery before the sprint begins so you can return to a healthy pace when the season ends. Main topics: Operating Beyond Normal Capacity Embracing Temporary Business Seasons Protecting Sleep And Energy Simplifying Daily Decisions Planning Intentional Recovery Main takeaway: "The goal isn't to prove how much pain you can tolerate. The goal is to survive the season, accomplish the mission, and still have enough left in the tank to enjoy the life you're building on the other side of it." It's easy to believe that success comes from simply enduring more pain than everyone else. More hours. More stress. More sacrifice. But business ownership isn't a contest to see who can suffer the longest. There are seasons when extraordinary effort is required. Sometimes the business genuinely needs more from us. But the purpose of that effort isn't to earn a badge of honor. It's to accomplish a mission. The real goal is to get through the difficult season while preserving enough energy, health, and relationships to enjoy what you're building when you reach the other side. Work hard when necessary. Recover intentionally when it's over. Build a business that supports your life instead of consuming it. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional | — | ||||||
| 5/27/26 |  703: Cat Sitting Roundtable: A Maturing Industry | What if cat sitting isn't a side-service anymore, but one of the fastest-maturing lanes in professional pet care? Collin sits down with Beth Pasek (Finicky Cat), Shannon Hendon (Ocala Pet Sitting), and Grace Taylor (Furever Friends Cat Sitting) to unpack why cat-only services are growing, what "maturing" looks like in client expectations, and how education around stress, behavior, and enrichment is reshaping demand. They discuss how veterinary-adjacent care shows up in real homes (especially with medical cases) and why language, scope, and standards matter as specialization increases. The group also tackles pricing, staffing, team structures, and the realities of cash flow when revenue is seasonal and peaky. The takeaway: cat sitting is not a fad, it's segmenting, professionalizing, and creating new opportunities for operators who build standards and stick to them. Main topics: Cat sitting industry growth and maturity Cat stress, behavior, enrichment Medical cats and scope Pricing, staffing, team models Technology, automation, reliability Main takeaway: "Businesses live and die on cash flow." That's true in every industry, but it's especially true in cat sitting, where busy seasons can feel like a tidal wave and slow months can sneak up fast. The answer isn't panic pricing or breaking your standards to "stay busy." It's knowing your patterns, planning ahead, and building a model that's honest about the highs and lows. Your care can be excellent and still fail if the business side isn't stable. Cat sitting is growing, so let's build it to last. About our guests: Beth Pasek runs Finicky Cat Sitting and Behavior in Cleveland, Ohio, with a cats-only focus and deep experience supporting behavior and medical-needs cases. Shannon Hendon is the founder of Ocala Pet Sitting in Central Florida and the Vice President of the Florida Pet Services Association, bringing two decades of industry experience and a cat-only transition perspective. Grace Taylor owns Furever Friends Cat Sitting in Baltimore, leading a cats-only team specializing in medical cats and building systems to support high-touch care at scale. Together, they represent a wide range of approaches to feline-focused business models and standards. Links: Beth Pasek — Finicky Cat Sitting & Behavior (Cleveland, OH) Website: https://finicky.us/ About Beth: https://finicky.us/meet-the-owner Field Notes mentoring series: https://finicky.us/cat-behavior-beth-pasek Facebook: Search "Liz Pasek" on Facebook Instagram (@finickycat): https://www.instagram.com/finickycat/ Book — Understanding Cat Behavior: A Compassionate Guide to Training and Communication: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Cat-Behavior-Compassionate-Communication/dp/164739614X Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/understanding-cat-behavior-beth-pasek/1137311653 Target: https://www.target.com/p/understanding-cat-behavior-by-beth-pasek-paperback/-/A-90337331 Shannon Hendon — Ocala Pet Sitting LLC (Ocala, FL) Website: https://www.ocalapetsitting.com/ Meet the Owner: https://www.ocalapetsitting.com/meet-the-owner Cat Sitting page: https://www.ocalapetsitting.com/cat-sitting LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-hendon YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCE48Cv_QpYgNE6PSmzUspNg Grace Taylor — Furever Friends Cat Sitting (Baltimore, MD) Website: https://fureverfriendscatsitting.com/ Instagram (@fureverfriendscatsitting): https://www.instagram.com/fureverfriendscatsitting/ Built for Cats (Shannon & Grace's joint education platform) Facebook group "Built for Cats: The Business of Feline Care" — searchable on Facebook Speaker bio/overview: https://flpetassociation.org/home/speakers/ Organizations & Resources Mentioned Ohio State University — Indoor Pet Initiative (Dr. Tony Buffington's work on cat enrichment) Main site: https://indoorpet.osu.edu/ For cat owners: https://indoorpet.osu.edu/cats Dr. Tony Buffington bio: https://indoorpet.osu.edu/people/tony-buffington-dvm-phd-dacvn Fear Free Pet Professionals (the Fear Free Certified® designation referenced) Main certifications page: https://www.fearfree.com/certifications/ Fear Free Pet Sitter Certification: https://fearfreepets.com/fear-free-pet-sitter-certification/ Feline Veterinary Medical Association (Feline VMA) — formerly AAFP — Cat Friendly Veterinary Professional designation https://catvets.com/ (Feline VMA) Cat Friendly Practice program info: referenced via https://catvets.com/ Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) — International Cat Show (held in Cleveland) CFA: https://cfa.org/ International Show & Expo: https://cfa.org/catexpo/ Florida Pet Services Association (FPSA) — Shannon is VP https://flpetassociation.org/ Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Sitters International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc | — | ||||||
| 5/25/26 |  702: Stop Typing the Same Thing Twice | How do you communicate clearly when you are tired, frustrated, or emotionally depleted? In this episode, we talk about why templates and saved scripts are not robotic shortcuts, but tools that help us protect our voice, our policies, and our peace. We share how repeated questions about cancelations, pricing, onboarding, hiring, birthdays, reviews, and training can drain a business owner when every response has to be written from scratch. We also explain why consistent communication is a brand issue, a team culture issue, and a sustainability issue. By creating templates ahead of time, we can reduce decision fatigue while still showing up with warmth, professionalism, and good judgment. Main topics: Templates reduce decision fatigue Consistent client communication matters Brand voice beyond owners Scripts support team training Systems protect emotional energy Main takeaway: "Copy, paste, change the name, and you're done, and you can actually go on to serve the next client, just like you want to be doing." A strong communication template is not about sounding robotic. It is about borrowing the clearest, calmest, most professional version of yourself when you are tired, overwhelmed, or emotionally depleted. When a client asks about a policy, your answer should not depend on whether it is 10 a.m. or 10 p.m. Templates help you protect your tone, enforce your boundaries, and communicate with consistency. They also give your team the language they need to represent your business well. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional 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 | — | ||||||
| 5/20/26 |  701: Leaving False Happiness Behind with Shaheen Riaz | What happens when you realize your "stable" career isn't actually making you happy? Shaheen Riaz spent 16 years in demanding administrative roles before finally choosing to follow her heart into professional dog care. In this episode, she shares the leap of faith that led her to launch Aunty Shan Dog Care in 2023, the mindset shifts that helped her go full-time, and how her background as a PA transformed her approach to client care. We discuss why clarity, communication, and compassion are at the heart of every great pet-sitting business — and how Shaheen's story proves it's never too late to start again. Main topics: Leaving a career for purpose Building Aunty Shan Dog Care from scratch Applying admin skills to pet care Communicating with clients and rescue dogs Overcoming fear and finding freedom Main takeaway: "If you don't try, you won't know — and if you don't try, you won't grow." Shaheen Riaz's story is proof that it's never too late to build a life you love. After 16 years in a stressful corporate job, she walked away to start Aunty Shan Dog Care — and found joy, purpose, and peace in the process. In this week's episode of Pet Sitter Confessional, she shares how she faced her fears, used her PA skills to elevate client care, and learned to define success on her own terms. Listen in for inspiration to take your next leap. About our guest: Shaheen Riaz is the owner and founder of Aunty Shan Dog Care in the UK. After 16 years in administrative and PA roles, she followed her lifelong passion for animals and launched her own dog-sitting business in 2023. Since then, she's built a reputation for excellence and compassion — earning the 2025 Animal Star Award for Dog Sitter of the Year (Southern Region). Shaheen is deeply committed to rescue dogs and often volunteers with European animal shelters to raise awareness and support their work. Links: Website: www.auntyshandogcare.com Instagram: @auntyshandogcare Facebook: Aunty Shan Dog Care Email: auntyshan@auntyshandogcare.com Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months DogCo Summit | — | ||||||
| 5/18/26 |  700: How Fast Can You Reset After a Business Hit? | What do you do when one hard moment in your business is immediately followed by another? In this episode, we talk about the emotional whiplash of client terminations, employee resignations, complaints, and unexpected problems that stack before we have time to recover. We explore why the real cost often isn't the trigger itself, but the reactive decisions we make while still charged. We walk through a simple framework: acknowledge what happened, strategize the next operational step, and refuse to absorb the event into your identity. For pet care business owners, reset speed is a trainable skill that helps us lead with clarity instead of panic. Main topics: Resetting after business hits Emotional decision making risks Acknowledge strategize don't absorb Avoiding reactive leadership choices Building mental recovery rhythms Main takeaway: "The goal is to shrink the window between being hit and clear decision making" The hard part of running a pet care business isn't just that problems happen. It's that they often happen back to back, before you've had time to breathe. A client complaint, an employee resignation, a difficult phone call, a bad review, or a schedule emergency can stack up fast. When that happens, the goal isn't to pretend you're fine or make every decision immediately. The goal is to acknowledge what happened, make the next clean operational move, and not turn one hard moment into a story about who you are as a leader. Reset speed is one of the most underrated skills in building a healthier, more sustainable pet care business. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo Summit | — | ||||||
| 5/13/26 |  699: The Power of Saying Yes to the Right Clients with Maria Estes | What does it look like to build an entire pet care business around cats? Maria Estes, founder of All About Cats Pet Sitting in Tallahassee, Florida, shares how a side gig started for income and joy grew into a thriving cat-specific business with over 900 clients. She explains why specialization matters, how feline behavior and medical needs have shaped her services, and why trust and communication are central to client peace of mind. Maria also talks about learning to let go, building a team, and finding the right people through rescue work, clients, and community relationships. Her story is a reminder that going deep into one niche can create stronger care, clearer boundaries, and a more meaningful business. Main topics: Building cat-specific services Trust through client communication Medical and behavioral care Growing beyond solo sitting Finding joy through specialization Main takeaway: "It's okay to be specialized in one area." Maria Estes built All About Cats Pet Sitting around a clear focus: cats. Not every pet care business has to serve every pet, every client, or every possible need. Sometimes the strength of a business comes from knowing exactly who you serve and committing to serving them well. Specialization allows us to deepen our education, improve our communication, and provide care that truly fits the animal in front of us. For Maria, that means cat-specific care rooted in trust, behavior knowledge, and peace of mind for the people who love them. About out guest: Maria Estes is the founder of All About Cats Pet Sitting in Tallahassee, Florida. She launched the business in 2010 with an exclusive focus on cat care after a 20-year career as an ultrasonographer specializing in high-risk pregnancies. Maria is a Certified Professional Pet Sitter and is also certified in cat training and bereavement support. Through her work, she focuses on specialized feline care, client trust, medical needs, behavior awareness, and helping cat guardians feel confident while they are away. Links: Her website: allaboutcatspetsitting.com Find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allaboutcatspetsitting/ Pet Nanny Coach: https://petnannycoach.com/ Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Sitters International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc | — | ||||||
| 5/11/26 |  698: Why Employee Retention Starts With Attention | Take the CEU Quiz: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdm4lr1fIDcwCwuUdYHsFdEWvGj1xLhGlJeAaWnF1F28aB1vQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=107413215510797164078 How do you keep employees happy when pet care is already a low-margin business? In this episode, we talk about why appreciation does not have to mean expensive gifts, bonuses, or branded swag. We walk through different types of employees, including practical, recognition-driven, growth-oriented, experience-valued, and stability-seeking team members. We also discuss why clear expectations, consistent communication, reliable scheduling, and field support are often more meaningful than anything you can buy. Ultimately, we remind business owners that appreciation is not about spending more, but paying attention better. Main Topics Appreciation without overspending Individual employee motivation styles Recognition beyond physical gifts Retention through clear expectations Communication and team support Main takeaway: "Appreciation isn't about spending more. It's about paying attention better." Appreciation does not have to mean big bonuses, expensive gifts, or elaborate team perks. In a low-margin business like pet sitting and dog walking, the most meaningful appreciation often comes from paying closer attention to the people already on your team. Some employees value practical help, some need public recognition, some want growth opportunities, and some simply want stability and clear expectations. When we take time to know our people as individuals, we can show appreciation in ways that actually land. Employee retention starts when our team feels seen, supported, and valued. Links: Take the CEU Quiz: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdm4lr1fIDcwCwuUdYHsFdEWvGj1xLhGlJeAaWnF1F28aB1vQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=107413215510797164078 Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional 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 | — | ||||||
| 5/6/26 |  697: From Isolation to Industry with the Florida Pet Services Association | What happens when pet sitters come together to shape the future of their industry? In this episode, Collin talks with Savanna Westwood and Charan Favazza from the Florida Pet Services Association about professionalism, education, and advocacy in pet care. They discuss why small business owners must think beyond daily tasks and understand legal, operational, and industry-wide responsibilities. The conversation highlights the power of community in overcoming isolation and raising standards. They also share insights into their upcoming summit and how it equips pet care professionals with real, actionable tools. Main topics: Industry professionalism and standards Small business legal responsibilities Hiring and employee challenges Value of networking community Actionable conference takeaways Main takeaway: "We are not just pet sitters and dog walkers—we are small business owners." This should change how we approach everything we do. It means understanding your numbers, your legal responsibilities, and your role in the industry. It means stepping up, not just showing up. Because when you start thinking like a business owner, you stop reacting—and start building. And that's where real growth happens. About our guests: Savanna Westwood is the owner of The Savvy Sitter Pet Sitting and Dog Walking in Orlando, Florida, and serves as President and co-founder of the Florida Pet Services Association. She is passionate about raising industry standards through education, professionalism, and advocacy. Charan Favazza is the owner of Rusty's Furry Companions in Lutz, Florida, and serves as Secretary of the Florida Pet Services Association. With nearly a decade in business, she is deeply committed to networking, education, and helping other pet care professionals avoid common mistakes and grow sustainably. Links: Florida Pet Services Association: https://flpetassociation.org Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Marketing Unleashed Visit: petmarketingunleashed.com Use code PSC15 to save 15% on your website template | — | ||||||
| 5/4/26 |  696: You (probably) need more sleep… | What if the problem in your business is not your systems, your discipline, or your schedule—but your sleep? In episode, we talk about how chronic sleep deprivation impacts decision-making, client communication, employee patience, service quality, and long-term sustainability. We explore why pet sitters and dog walkers are especially vulnerable to fragmented schedules, mental overload, and caffeine reliance. We also share practical ways to improve sleep quality, including consistent routines, better sleep environments, caffeine cutoffs, and hiring for early or late time blocks. Most importantly, we remind ourselves that protecting sleep is not selfish—it is part of running a healthier, sharper, more sustainable business. Main topics: Sleep and business performance Chronic stress and burnout Caffeine reliance and fatigue Hiring for sleep protection Building better sleep routines Main takeaway: "Sometimes the most effective business move that you can make is just getting enough sleep consistently." As pet sitters and dog walkers, we often look for another system, another app, another SOP, or another productivity hack when we start feeling overwhelmed. But sometimes the issue is not that we are disorganized—it is that we are exhausted. Poor sleep impacts how we communicate with clients, how patient we are with employees, how quickly we respond in the field, and how clearly we make decisions. Protecting your sleep is not stepping away from your business; it is protecting your ability to run it well. If you want to care for pets, clients, your team, and yourself for the long haul, sleep has to be part of the business plan. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional Critter to turn insights into action. Use 'PSC20' for 20% off your first three months | — | ||||||
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| 4/29/26 |  695: Building a Cat-Only Business That Scales with Grace Taylor | Use Code PREPARE for 5% at petfirstaid4u.com to celebrate PetFirst Aid Month! What happens when you stop trying to serve everyone and build a business specifically for cats? In this episode, we talk with Grace Taylor of Furever Friends Cat Sitting about what it really looks like to niche—intentionally and unapologetically. Grace shares how defining success for both clients and sitters transformed her onboarding, pricing, and team culture. We dig into medical cat care, client education, and why more time—not less—is often the answer for cats. This conversation is packed with practical insight for anyone wondering whether specialization limits growth or unlocks it. Main topics: Cat-only business niching Defining client success Training and team trust High-touch pricing strategy Community-driven marketing Main takeaway: "Someone else can give amazing care—but it isn't your care unless you teach it." That single idea reshapes how you hire, train, and lead a team. In this episode, Grace Taylor explains why great onboarding isn't about skills—it's about expectations, communication, and defining success from day one. When clients feel consistency and sitters know exactly what great care looks like, trust follows. If you've ever struggled to duplicate your level of care as you grow, this conversation is for you. About our guest: Grace Taylor is the owner of Furever Friends Cat Sitting, a cat-only pet care company based in Baltimore City. With a background in education and over 200 foster cats behind her, Grace has built a team specializing in medical, behavioral, and high-touch feline care. Her business is known for strong client education, community involvement, and creative service offerings like staycations. Grace is also co-founding an initiative to elevate professional feline care standards industry-wide. Links: Built for Cats Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/843523431827984/ Furever Friends on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fureverfriendscatsitting/ Furever Friends on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fureverfriendscatsitting/ Their website: https://fureverfriendscatsitting.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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months DogCo Summit | — | ||||||
| 4/27/26 |  694: What to Do When Networking Gets You Nowhere | What do we do when our local pet care community won't support us? We explore the reality that not every market is collaborative, even when we've done all the "right" networking steps. We unpack why other professionals may be closed off, from fear and past experiences to scarcity mindsets. We walk through what not to do when faced with rejection or silence. Finally, we outline practical ways to grow your business anyway—by shifting focus, expanding connections, and doubling down on client experience. Main topics: Networking without local support Scarcity mindset in pet care Handling rejection professionally Expanding beyond pet industry Client-focused growth strategy Main takeaway: "Focus on your clients, not your peers." It's easy to get caught up in what other pet sitters are doing—who's referring, who's not, who's supporting you, and who isn't. But that energy is often better spent somewhere else. The real growth in your business doesn't come from other professionals—it comes from the experience you create for your clients every single day. When you prioritize clear communication, reliable service, and genuine care, your clients notice. They come back. They tell their friends. They become your strongest advocates without you ever having to ask. So instead of looking sideways, look forward. Build something so strong that it speaks for itself. Links: Conferences: https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/conferences Podcasts & Coaching: https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/other-resources Use Code PREPARE for 5% at petfirstaid4u.com to celebrate PetFirst Aid Month! Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo Summit | — | ||||||
| 4/22/26 |  693: Building a Remote Culture that Works with Don Harkey | Wanna earn a CEU? Go here! CEU: https://forms.gle/LthLsWwnABtGNoPX7 How do you build a strong team when your employees rarely, if ever, see one another? In this episode of Pet Sitter Confessional, Collin talks with Don Harkey of People Centric about what it takes to create healthy remote culture in pet care businesses. Don explains how leadership, communication, autonomy, and feedback all work together to help employees feel connected and set up for success. They discuss practical ways to build community across distributed teams, improve onboarding, and create better systems for performance and accountability. This conversation is a helpful reminder that strong culture does not happen by accident, but it can be built deliberately and fruitfully. Main topics: Remote culture in pet care Leadership through better systems Feedback that builds trust Community in distributed teams Autonomy and accountability balance Main takeaway: "You can design an organization that works really well for people that also works really well for the company." Too often, business owners feel like they have to choose between caring for their team and building a successful company, but those two things are not in conflict. In fact, when we build better systems, communicate clearly, and lead with intention, both people and businesses benefit. This episode is a great reminder that healthy culture is not fluff or extra work for someday. It is part of building a business that lasts. About our guest: Don Harkey is the CEO of People Centric, a Springfield, Missouri-based company that helps organizations build healthier, more effective workplaces. A self-described recovering engineer, Don began his career at Fortune 500 companies including Archer Daniels Midland and 3M before turning his attention to the science of people and organizations. Through training, coaching, and systems implementation, he helps businesses create environments where employees can thrive and companies can perform better. Don is also the host of the People Centric Podcast, where he explores leadership, communication, strategy, and workplace culture. Links: Wanna earn a CEU? Go here! CEU: https://forms.gle/LthLsWwnABtGNoPX7 People Centric (Don Harkey's consulting firm): https://peoplecentric.com/ Don Harkey – Founder and CEO Bio: https://peoplecentric.com/about/ People Centric Blog / Articles by Don Harkey: https://peoplecentric.com/author/donharkey/ Don Harkey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-harkey-8911556 Trello (project management tool referenced in the episode): https://trello.com Slack (team communication platform referenced in the episode): https://slack.com Microsoft Teams (team collaboration tool referenced in the episode): https://www.microsoft.com/microsoft-teams Gallup CliftonStrengths / StrengthsFinder: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths Book referenced: Multipliers by Liz Wiseman: https://thewisemangroup.com/books/multipliers/ Gallup: https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/254033/strengthsfinder.aspx 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Sitters International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc | — | ||||||
| 4/20/26 |  692: What's Your Profit Per Service? | What if the services filling your schedule are the very ones holding your business back? In this episode, we talk about why pet care business owners need to understand profit per service instead of only looking at total revenue or yearly profit. We walk through the difference between gross profit and net profit, and we explain how labor, mileage, admin time, and scheduling inefficiencies all affect what we actually keep. We also discuss how certain services, routes, and add-ons can either strengthen or weaken the business depending on how they are structured. Most importantly, we encourage pet sitters and dog walkers to think like owners and operators so we can build businesses that are sustainable, efficient, and profitable. Main topics: Gross profit versus net Direct labor and costs Scheduling and route efficiency Service pricing and structure Profitable growth decision-making Main takeaway: "More clients with bad margins just equals more stress." Growth by itself is not the goal if the services we are offering are underpriced, inefficient, or draining our time and energy. Sometimes the answer is not adding more clients, but taking a hard look at which services are actually helping the business and which ones are quietly hurting it. When we understand profit per service, we can make better decisions, protect our team, serve our clients well, and build something that lasts. Sustainable growth starts with clarity. 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo Launch Summit | — | ||||||
| 4/15/26 |  691: Business Grief, Identity, and the Courage to Move On with Corinne Moore | What happens when you finally build the business you dreamed of—and it still doesn't make you happy? In this episode, Corinne Moore shares the emotional and practical reality of deciding to close a pet care company after years of building systems, leaders, and stability. We talk about the "grief" of letting go, the guilt many owners carry for clients and staff, and how maternity leave created space to see the truth clearly. Corinne explains how tracking patterns (not just bad days) helped her separate a rough patch from a real endpoint. The conversation closes with encouragement: you can finish well, take care of people, and still choose what's best for your life. Main topics: Maternity leave and clarity Business grief and identity Staff transitions and ethics Client communication when closing Rough patch vs endpoint Main takeaway: "You deserve to be happy in your company." Corinne's remark can feel almost too simple—until you realize how many owners are running on guilt, obligation, and sunk cost. Corinne shared how stepping away (and tracking patterns over time) helped her see what was true: not every hard season is just a temporary dip, and not every business has to last forever to be meaningful. Finishing well can still include caring for clients, supporting staff transitions, and communicating with integrity. The goal isn't to quit on a bad day—it's to tell the truth about a bad year and choose a healthier next chapter. Your business should support your life, not slowly erase it. About our guest: Corinne Moore is a pet care professional based in Madison, Wisconsin, and the former owner of a pet care company called Paws and Claws. Known as "the data girl" in the pet care space, she supports business owners through coaching and a metrics-first approach to decision-making. Corinne also works in bookkeeping and runs Pawsome Metrics, helping service businesses make sense of their numbers and operations. Her passion sits at the intersection of sustainable leadership, clear reporting, and building businesses that truly fit the owner's life. Links: Dog Co Launch: https://www.dogcolaunch.com/ Tiny Paws Bookkeeping: https://tinypawsbookkeeping.com Corinne's previous appearance, "565: How Metrics Transform with Corinne Moore": https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/episodes/565 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. 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 | — | ||||||
| 4/13/26 |  690: How Do I Get My Clients to Trust My New Employee? | Use Code PREPARE for 5% at petfirstaid4u.com to celebrate Pet First Aid Month! How do we help clients trust our employees when they have only ever trusted us? In this episode, we talk through the real challenges of moving from a solo business to a team-based model and why this transition can feel so personal for both pet sitters and clients. We break down several common employee structures, from fully team-based to primary-and-backup models, and explain how each one shapes client expectations. We also discuss what it takes to set employees up for success through hiring, onboarding, skills training, oversight, and clear communication. Most of all, we share how we can frame team growth not as a downgrade, but as an upgrade in reliability, consistency, and long-term care. Main topics: Employee model structure choices Why clients resist teams Training employees to standards Transferring trust to staff Framing growth as upgrade Main takeaway: "We're growing so we can serve you better for the long term." That mindset changes everything. Hiring help is not about lowering your standards or stepping away from quality care. It is about building something stronger, more reliable, and more sustainable for both your clients and your team. When growth is done well, clients gain consistency, backup coverage, and the confidence that care will continue even when life happens. Building a trusted team is not a step backward. It is one of the clearest ways to serve more people with excellence. 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo Launch Case Study | — | ||||||
| 4/8/26 |  689: Being Money Aware with Jamie Trull | What if the biggest thing your numbers could give you isn't stress—it's options? In this episode, Collin sits down with CPA and financial literacy coach Jamie Trull to unpack why so many pet care business owners feel overwhelmed by money. Jamie explains the difference between "compliance" (taxes/bookkeeping) and using financial data to run a smarter, more resilient business. They dig into common blind spots like ignoring labor costs (even when you're solo), running too lean, and missing opportunities hidden in your service-level margins. The conversation ends with practical mindset shifts around pricing, differentiation, proactive CEO habits, and building a business that can scale—and potentially sell. Main topics: Compliance vs. financial clarity Money awareness and curiosity Pricing for real margins Cash flow and payroll timing Differentiation vs. commoditization Main takeaway: "If I want to grow, there are two things I can invest in my business: I can invest my money, or I can invest my time." Most of us started by bootstrapping with time—wearing every hat, doing every visit, solving every problem. But eventually, time becomes the bottleneck, not effort. The shift is realizing that investing money in the right places isn't "wasteful"—it's what turns a job into an asset. When your time is finite and demand is real, letting your money do some of the heavy lifting is how you stop being busy-broke and start building something sustainable. About our guest: Jamie Trull is a Certified Public Accountant and financial literacy coach who helps small business owners step into the role of their own CFO. She specializes in making business finances practical and approachable—without requiring an MBA or a love of spreadsheets. Jamie is the author of Hidden Profit and shares free education on topics like profitability, taxes, and business money systems through her website and YouTube channel. She's especially passionate about serving the pet services industry and helping owners build sustainable, resilient businesses. Links: https://jamietrull.com https://jamietrull.com/book 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. 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 | — | ||||||
| 4/6/26 |  688: From "Ugh" to "That Was a Good Day" | How do we keep one hard morning from ruining an entire workday? In this episode, we talk about what happens when the day starts with client messages, employee issues, schedule changes, and mental overload before we've even had a chance to catch our breath. We share five practical ways we reset our mindset, focus on the next task, notice small wins, trust our systems, and reconnect with why our work matters. We also discuss how these ideas apply not just to pet sitting visits, but to admin work, team leadership, client onboarding, and business ownership as a whole. This conversation is a reminder that even when we start the day with dread, we can still finish it feeling accomplished, grounded, and grateful. Main topics: Turning bad days around Focusing on next task Noticing daily micro wins Building better business systems Remembering why work matters Main takeaway: "We don't have to let one part of the day affect the rest of the day." That idea is simple, but it is not always easy to live out in pet care. One difficult client message, a lock issue, a messy visit, or a packed schedule can make it feel like the whole day is already lost. But one hard moment does not have to decide the tone of everything that comes after it. When we pause, reset, and focus on the next right thing, we give ourselves a chance to recover and move forward with purpose. Sometimes the biggest win of the day is not that everything went perfectly, but that we refused to stay stuck in the overwhelm. Links: Use Code PREPARE for 5% at petfirstaid4u.com to celebrate Pet First Aid Month! 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional Pet Marketing Unleashed Visit: petmarketingunleashed.com Use code PSC15 to save 15% on your website template | — | ||||||
| 4/1/26 |  687: Tackling The Scaling Wall with Pixelum | What happens when the hardest part of running a pet care business isn't the pets—it's the scheduling, routing, and operational chaos behind the scenes? In this episode, Collin talks with the Pixelum team (Austin, Ian, and Joe) about why pet service businesses hit a "scaling wall," and how automated scheduling can remove mental fatigue and reduce missed opportunities. They unpack where AI helps (pattern recognition and workflows) and where it can be too risky (high-variance decisions like visit fulfillment). The conversation also explores tool fatigue, the hidden cost of switching between apps, and why great software should "take away" instead of "add." Finally, they connect systemization and data visibility to business continuity—making your company transferable, sustainable, and less dependent on you. Main topics: Automated scheduling and routing AI use cases and limits Tool fatigue and switching costs Data foundations and business intelligence Scaling, continuity, and transferability Main takeaway: "Good software solutions take away versus add." — Ian Leibovici That's the standard every pet care owner should measure new tools against. If the software adds more clicks, more dashboards, and more mental overhead, it's not solving the problem—it's relocating it. The goal isn't to become a better schedule-juggler; the goal is to spend more time doing the work only humans can do: caring well, building trust, and leading your team. The right tech should reduce tool switching, lower fatigue, and give you time back. If it doesn't remove burden, it's probably not the right fit. About our guests: Pixelum is a technology and operations-focused team working with service businesses to reduce operational overhead and improve systemization. In this episode, Austin Hanley (operator and point of contact), Ian Leibovici (Chief Innovation Officer and co-founder), and Joe (CEO and co-founder) share how they approach complex scheduling, routing, and process challenges in the pet care industry. They built Calio Pro to help pet service companies optimize schedules while keeping existing workflows intact. Their work emphasizes practical automation, stronger data foundations, and reducing tool fatigue for owners and teams. Joe Ganobsik, CEO and co-founder of Pixelum, has been building software and recruiting and leading technology teams for over a decade at some of the top startups in Silicon Valley. Joe has also founded several companies and consulting agencies, working across all facets of the business. He enjoys problem solving and driving growth via innovation. Joe loves to play golf in his free time. He lives in Chicago with his fiancée and two adorable Shih-poos, Guinness and Killarney. Ian Leibovici, Chief Innovation Officer and co-founder of Pixelum, is a strategic innovator with an entrepreneurial mindset. He has built and implemented solutions to many complex challenges across a variety of industries and is a seasoned experience designer and technical solutions architect. He has deep skills in research and testing with a focus on finding the best path to success. Ian loves to race cars and goes overlanding. He lives just north of Philly with his partner and lovable cats Minky, Mishka, Doppi, Squibbles and Susie. Austin Hanley, Business Development team lead at Pixelum, brings over a decade of sales and customer service experience in the financial publishing and hospitality industries. His background has shaped his interpersonal skills and strategic thinking, and he is passionate about helping small business owners solve problems through thoughtful, relationship-driven solutions. Austin loves playing ice hockey in an adult league in Maryland. He lives in Baltimore with his family and their sweet magnificent Great Dane Cobalt, and two dreamy cats Cleo & Seneca. Links: Pixelum: https://www.pixelum.io Buy Back Your Time: https://amzn.to/4pFvsCA austin@pixelum.io 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Sitters International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc | — | ||||||
| 3/30/26 |  686: Your Systems Are Your Brand—Are They Delivering? | What can a burrito chain teach us about running a better pet care business? In this episode, we explore how Chipotle Mexican Grill discovered who their real customers were—and why that changed everything. We connect those lessons to pet care, showing how your systems, brand, and client data all work together. We also discuss why trying to serve everyone weakens your business and how clarity attracts the right clients. Ultimately, we challenge you to build for the clients already choosing you, not the ones you wish you had. Main Topics Customer data reveals true audience Systems communicate brand promise clearly Scaling without losing core values Simplicity drives operational consistency Premium positioning vs price competition Main takeaway: "We can scream from the rooftops about how reliable we are, but at the end of the day, do the clients actually experience that?" That's the real question. Every message we send, every visit report, every interaction is either reinforcing or weakening our brand. Clients don't buy what we say—they buy what they feel when working with us. If your systems don't back up your promises, your brand starts to erode. Build an experience that proves what you say is true. Links: Chipotle's target customer: https://www.businessinsider.com/chipotle-price-changes-core-customer-shaped-economy-2026-2 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional 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 | — | ||||||
| 3/25/26 |  685: Would You Wear a Body Camera? Real Talk on Liability with Stacy Aguilar | What does it really take to protect your team, your clients, and your business as you grow? In this episode, Collin talks with Stacy Aguilar, owner of Abby's Animal Sitters and Dog Walkers, about how safety and accountability shape every decision she makes. Stacy shares how her background in marketing helped her scale quickly, why her entire team is Fear Free certified, and how body cameras became a cornerstone of her operations. They discuss hiring for teachability, building trust in clients' homes, and setting non-negotiable standards. This conversation challenges pet sitters to rethink what professionalism and protection really look like. Main topics: Business liability and safety Body cameras in pet care Fear Free team standards Hiring for teachability Scaling with accountability Main takeaway: "If safety and accountability are your standard, you can't lower that just because a client asks you to." That's easy to say—but much harder to live out in real business situations. Especially when you're trying to serve people well, keep clients happy, and grow your business. But the truth is, your standards are what define your business, not your exceptions. In pet care, we're entering homes, handling keys, and caring for living animals. Cutting corners—even once—doesn't just create risk, it erodes trust. And trust is everything in what we do. Strong businesses don't bend their values based on convenience. They build systems that protect their team, their clients, and the pets in their care. Sometimes the most professional thing you can say is: "We're not the right fit." About our guest: Stacy Aguilar is the owner and founder of Abby's Animal Sitters and Dog Walkers, a team-based pet care company serving southern New Jersey. With a background in marketing and public relations, Stacy scaled her business from a side project into a multi-employee operation. Her company is fully Fear Free certified and is one of the only pet care businesses in the region using body cameras for accountability and safety. Stacy is passionate about systems, risk management, and building a business that serves both clients and staff well. Relevant Links Abby's Animal Sitters and Dog Walkers – Website https://abbysanimalsitters.com/ Abby's Animal Sitters and Dog Walkers – Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/abbysanimalsitters Abby's Animal Sitters and Dog Walkers – Google Business Profile https://g.page/abbysanimalsitters Fear Free Certification (Pets & Professionals) https://fearfreepets.com/ Camp Pro Body Camera (as mentioned in episode) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08K7H4ZQF 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months DogCo Launch Case Study | — | ||||||
| 3/23/26 |  684: What AI Can't Replace in Pet Care | How should we think about AI in a business built on trust, presence, and hands-on care? In this episode, we unpack a market study on theoretical AI capability versus actual AI usage and explore what it means for pet care professionals. We talk about why pet care remains a deeply human service, even as AI becomes more useful for admin work, marketing, communication, and strategy. We also discuss where AI can strengthen a pet care business and where it introduces risk if we rely on it too heavily. Above all, we argue that the future belongs to pet care businesses that use AI to sharpen operations while making their human value even clearer. Main topics: AI adoption across industries Why pet care resists Admin work versus fieldwork Human trust and judgment Using AI strategically well Main takeaway: Artificial Intelligence may not walk the dog, but it will absolutely change how our businesses are run. AI is not replacing the human being who walks into a home, reads the room, notices what is off, and cares for a living animal with judgment and presence. But it is changing the business side of pet care fast, from communication to marketing to operations. The challenge for pet care professionals is not whether we will use these tools, but whether we will use them in a way that strengthens our professionalism without stripping away the humanity that makes our work valuable. The businesses that learn that balance well will be the ones that stand out. Links: Use Code PREPARE for 5% at petfirstaid4u.com to celebrate Pet First Aid Month! The research article: https://www.anthropic.com/research/labor-market-impacts Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional 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 | — | ||||||
| 3/18/26 |  683: AI Roundtable for The Pet Care Industry | What role should AI play in running our business? In this roundtable, Michelle Kline, Daniel Reitman, and Doug Keeling explore the growing role of artificial intelligence in the pet care industry. They discuss practical use cases like data analysis, client support, route optimization, SOP creation, and marketing, while also wrestling with real concerns around environmental impact, ethics, authenticity, and changing job markets. The conversation keeps returning to one central idea: AI should not replace human care, but it can free business owners to spend more time on the parts of the job that matter most. This episode is a nuanced, honest look at how pet care businesses can engage AI without losing their values, relationships, or humanity. Main topics: AI use in operations Ethics and environmental concerns Saving time through automation AI and client experience Future of pet care Main takeaway: "AI should never make care decisions about a living animal. It should never replace a physical caregiver. It should supplement what we do." AI can help us analyze data, improve systems, and buy back time, but it should never replace the human judgment, presence, and compassion that define great pet care. The real opportunity is not to become more robotic in how we run our businesses. It is to become more human by removing some of the busywork that pulls us away from pets, clients, and team members. This episode is a thoughtful discussion about how to use new tools without losing the heart of what we do. About our guests: Michelle K. is the founder of Dog Co Launch, where she helps pet care business owners build stronger systems, scale sustainably, and think more strategically about growth. She brings a coaching perspective to this conversation, especially around operations, data, and the ethical limits of AI in service-based businesses. Michelle is deeply focused on helping businesses adapt without losing the human relationships that make their work meaningful. Daniel Reitman is the owner of Dan's Pet Care and is known for asking hard questions and pushing the industry to think bigger about operations, technology, and standards of care. He is an early adopter of AI tools and has been exploring how they can support data analysis, staff communication, customer experience, and business scalability. Daniel brings both enthusiasm and urgency to conversations about how quickly this technology is changing the landscape. Doug Keeling is the founder of Bad to the Bone Pet Care and a respected voice in pet care hiring, leadership, and business development. Though he describes himself as a later adopter of AI, Doug has found meaningful ways to use it for SOPs, training, data analysis, and administrative efficiency. He brings a grounded, thoughtful perspective to the conversation, especially around environmental impact and using AI in ways that create more time for relationships and community care. Links: Michelle Kline (DogCo Launch) Dog Co Secrets PodcastListen on Apple Podcasts Grow Your Daily Dog Walking Business with Dog Co Launch Doug Keeling (Doug the Dog Guy) YouTube Doug the Dog Guy YouTube channel example video Instagram @dougthedogguyofficial Daniel Reitman FacebookDaniel Reitman Facebook page Instagram@danielreitman LinkedInDaniel Reitman LinkedIn profile AI Tools Mentioned ChatGPT (OpenAI) https://chatgpt.com Claude (Anthropic) https://claude.ai Gemini (Google) https://gemini.google.com Elicit (AI research tool)Elicit official site 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Sitters International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc | — | ||||||
| 3/16/26 |  682: Why Congress Is Talking About the Pet Industry (But Forgot Dog Walkers) | What happens when Congress holds a hearing about the pet economy—but leaves out dog walkers and pet sitters? In this episode, we unpack the March 11, 2026 Senate Committee hearing on the growing small-business pet economy. While veterinarians, a pet product manufacturer, and a boarding franchise owner testified, the independent in-home pet care sector was notably absent. We explore what this omission reveals about how policymakers understand the industry and why representation matters. Finally, we discuss the real challenges small pet care businesses face—from health insurance costs to tax policies—and how professionals in our field can begin advocating for their place in the broader pet economy conversation. Main topics: Senate hearing on pet economy Independent pet care representation gap Small business pressures and costs Health insurance and tax challenges Advocacy for pet care professionals Main takeaway: "If Congress wants to understand the pet economy, your voice should be part of that conversation." The U.S. Senate recently held a hearing about the growing pet industry—but not a single dog walker or pet sitter was invited to testify. That's remarkable when you consider how many families rely on in-home pet care every single day. Professional pet sitters and dog walkers support working households, care for senior and anxious pets, and help make modern pet ownership possible. If our industry wants to be recognized, we can't stay invisible. Advocacy starts with sharing our stories and helping decision makers understand what our businesses actually do. The pet economy includes us—and it's time our voices were heard. Links: Watch the hearing: https://www.sbc.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2026/3/main-street-s-top-dog-growing-the-small-business-pet-economy Write a letter template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dGKlyHj7jTWxFwu48nCYHS-qdu1LYAn7c6PH_fXoXQ4/edit?usp=sharing 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional DogCo Launch Case Study | — | ||||||
| 3/11/26 |  681: Mental Health, Safety, and Walking Reactive Dogs with Tanikka Spear | How do you keep showing up for pets and their people when your mental health is hanging by a thread? Tanikka Spear, owner of Urban Pets in southeast England, shares about living with chronic depression, anxiety, and PTSD while running a dog walking and pet sitting business. She shares how reactive dogs "fell into her lap," what it takes to safely walk a 50-kilo dog, and why understanding the dog's emotional world matters so much. Tanikka opens up about suicidal ideation, the fear that finally pushed her to seek help, and the support systems that keep her going—from family to clients who offer coffee and hugs on hard days. Main topics: Living with chronic mental illness Working safely with reactive dogs Client communication and progress updates Burnout, boundaries, and hard days Finding support and speaking up Main takeaway: "It's an hour of their day, maybe two hours of their day, but that's probably the best part of their day. And if I don't show up, then they don't have that." – Tanikka In this week's episode, Tanikka shares what it's like to live with chronic depression, anxiety, and PTSD while caring for highly reactive and aggressive dogs. She talks about the days when she wakes up at 20% but still has to show up at 100% for safety, for her clients, and for the dogs who trust her. We dive into safety systems, high-vis gear, quiet walking routes, and the emotional toll of working with big feelings on both ends of the leash. If you've ever felt "lazy" or broken when you're really just struggling, this conversation will remind you that you're not alone and that your work still matters. About our guest: Tanikka is the owner of Urban Pets, a dog walking and pet sitting business based in southeast England. Although she never set out to specialize in reactive and aggressive dogs, those cases found her, and she discovered a deep passion for helping dogs with big feelings and complicated histories. Living with chronic depression, anxiety, and PTSD, she brings a unique empathy to her work, recognizing that many dogs are experiencing their own invisible struggles. Through careful management, safety-focused systems, and honest communication with clients, she helps reactive dogs build confidence while supporting the humans who love them. Links: https://urbanpetservices.co.uk Mental Health Resources 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 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Marketing Unleashed Visit: petmarketingunleashed.com Use code PSC15 to save 15% on your website template | — | ||||||
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