Whisker Report - Pet PR & Publicity - Pet Life Radio Original

This week on The Whisker Report, Mary Tan welcomes nationally recognized pet industry expert, business coach, and Pet Boss Nation founder Candace D’Agnolo. With nearly 25 years in the pet industry and a decade spent coaching independent pet businesses, Candace shares practical strategies for helping local pet stores and pet service providers stand out in a crowded marketplace. From understanding your ideal customer and prioritizing marketing efforts to building media relationships and leveraging local PR opportunities, Candace reveals what separates thriving pet businesses from those that struggle to be seen. She also shares real-world success stories, lessons learned from navigating a major PR crisis, and why independent pet businesses can't afford to be their town's "best-kept secret." Whether you're a pet retailer, groomer, trainer, daycare owner, or animal welfare professional, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you build visibility, credibility, and long-term growth.EPISODE NOTES: Stop Being Your Town's Best-Kept Secret: PR & Marketing Lessons from Pet Boss NationBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

On this episode of The Whisker Report, hosts Mary Tan tackles a topic no pet business or animal rescue ever wants to face—but absolutely must be prepared for: crisis communications. Joined by producer Mark Winter of Pet Life Radio, they welcome retired Minnesota police chief Craig Enevoldsen, a seasoned expert who spent decades managing high-pressure, high-visibility crises. From tragic accidents to employee misconduct and intense media scrutiny, Craig shares clear, practical guidance on what to do when everything goes wrong. The conversation covers dealing with reporters on your doorstep, communicating with staff and volunteers, handling social media firestorms, issuing statements, and knowing when a press conference is—or isn’t—necessary. It’s a must-listen episode for anyone in animal welfare or the pet industry who wants to protect their mission, reputation, and community when it matters most.EPISODE NOTES: When Things Go Wrong: Crisis Communication for Pet Businesses & RescuesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

This week on The Whisker Report, hosts Mary Tan and Pet Life Radio Executive Producer, Mark Winter, welcome Jolanta Smulski, founder of Pet Pro Media, a marketing agency helping pet businesses and rescues thrive in today’s fast-changing digital world. From Wall Street to the pet industry, Jolanta brings her global luxury brand experience and data-driven strategy to help companies grow, retain customers, and stand out in the $100+ billion pet market. She shares practical, budget-friendly marketing tips for small businesses and nonprofits, plus insights on how artificial intelligence is transforming the way we connect with pet lovers. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, rescue leader, or animal advocate, this episode is packed with expert advice to help you unleash your brand’s full potential.EPISODE NOTES: Unleashing the Future: How AI is Transforming Pet MarketingBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

This week on The Whisker Report, hosts Mary Tan and Alexane Ricard, along with producer Mark Winter of Pet Life Radio, welcome Tori Mistick, founder of Wear Wag Repeat and host of its popular companion podcast. With over 15 years in digital marketing and more than a decade building her thriving dog lifestyle blog, Tori has helped hundreds of petpreneurs and nonprofits grow their brands online. From essential PR strategies to common mistakes in pet business marketing, Tori shares practical insights every animal welfare group and pet entrepreneur can use. Whether you’re running a nonprofit, launching a product, or trying to carve out your niche in the pet industry, this episode will inspire you to bark loud and purr smart!EPISODE NOTES: Marketing Magic with Tori MistickBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

This week on The Whisker Report, hosts Mary Tan, Alexandre Ricard, and Mark Winter dive into the world of pet PR, industry trends, and success stories. Mary introduces her new rescue pup, Max, while Alex shares the story of finding him on the streets of Mexico. Mark reveals exciting news about the return of three beloved Pet Life Radio shows: Alive Again, Working Like Dogs, and Canine Master. Plus, the team welcomes special guest Nancy Hassel, founder and president of American Pet Professionals, an award-winning networking and educational organization for pet entrepreneurs, rescues, and businesses. Nancy shares her incredible journey in the pet industry, from teaching responsible dog ownership to being named Pet Age Magazine’s 2018 Woman of Influence. Get ready for insights, laughs, and tips to help your pet business or nonprofit shine!EPISODE NOTES: Publicity for Pets: Tips, Trends & Tales: The Whisker Report Welcomes Nancy HasselBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

In this inspiring episode of The Whisker Report, hosts Mary Tan and Alexandre Ricard welcome globetrotting animal rescuer Adelle Goodman, the compassionate force behind the Instagram account Travel Animal Rescue. From rescuing kittens in Cambodia to launching large-scale TNR (trap-neuter-return) programs in Greece, Adele shares her journey of turning a one-time rescue into a full-time mission. You'll hear how she navigates international animal welfare challenges, works with grassroots organizations, and even landed a full-time job as a professional trapper. Packed with humor & heart, this episode also dives into the power of PR, building awareness, and the daily realities of saving lives on the street—one cat at a time.EPISODE NOTES: Catch, Care, Release: The Global Adventures of a Full-Time TrapperBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

This week on The Whisker Report, Mary and Alex welcome Bryn Souza, Director of Customer Experience at DOGTV and a multifaceted creative force in the pet industry. From marketing and blogging to content strategy and freelance writing, Bryn shares how she carved her path into pet media and landed at the forefront of innovative programming. The conversation dives into what’s working (and what’s not) in PR and marketing for pet brands, how DOGTV approaches partnerships, and how shelters and rescues can better amplify their message. Whether you're in animal welfare or the pet business world, tune in for actionable insights, fresh ideas, and a behind-the-scenes look at a media brand making waves—tail wags included!EPISODE NOTES: Paws, Play, and PR: Behind the Scenes with Bryn Souza Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

This week on The Whisker Report, Mary, Alex, and Mark welcome the incredibly inspiring Kate Benjamin, founder of Hauspanther, the go-to online magazine for stylish cat living. Known for her keen eye for design and deep love for felines, Kate shares how she turned her passion for aesthetics into a movement known as catification — transforming homes into functional, beautiful spaces that both cats and humans can enjoy. From her beginnings in the design world to becoming a thought leader in feline-friendly interiors, Kate’s story is as creative as it is heartwarming. Tune in to hear how she’s redefining what it means to live in style — with cats!EPISODE NOTES: Feline Fine Design: Kate Benjamin’s Catified World Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

In this episode of The Whisker Report, co-host Alexane Ricard flies solo (thanks to a little unexpected lockout drama!) while producer Mark Winter of Pet Life Radio joins the fun to kick things off. While Mary Tan braves Minnesota’s five-degree weather from the wrong side of her front door, Alexane welcomes special guest Isabel Alvarez Arata—pet entrepreneur, content marketing pro, and host of the lively podcast Covered in Pet Hair. Isabel shares her journey through pet business, her passion for different cultures, her work in TNR (trap-neuter-return) in Texas, and her insights into building a brand through storytelling. Whether you're in animal welfare or the pet industry, you’ll find something to wag your tail about in this inspiring and delightfully unpredictable episode.EPISODE NOTES: PR, Podcasts & Pet Hair: A Conversation with Isabel Alvarez ArataBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

This week on The Whisker Report, Mary and Alex welcome Maria Soroski and Karen Duncan, co-founders of Vancouver Orphan Kitten Rescue Association (VOKRA). Since 2000, VOKRA has been on a mission to end cat overpopulation and homelessness through rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption, with a strong focus on Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR). Thanks to their dedicated efforts, feral cat populations in Vancouver and Burnaby have drastically declined. Maria and Karen share how they started this life-saving work, the challenges they’ve faced—including the impact of the pandemic and rising costs—and how the community can help keep this vital mission alive. Tune in to hear their inspiring journey and learn how you can support VOKRA at VOKRA.ca/donate.EPISODE NOTES: From Stray to Saved: How VOKRA is Changing LivesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

Struggling with social media for your pet business or animal rescue? This week, we’re joined by Skarlet Rockwood of Fur Social, a marketing expert dedicated to helping pet professionals grow their brands online. As a key member of the Pet Industry Network, Skarlet shares invaluable insights on PR, video marketing, and best practices for social media success. Whether you’re a pet entrepreneur or running a rescue, you’ll learn which platforms work best, how to create engaging content, and free resources to boost your visibility. Don’t miss this episode packed with expert tips to take your pet brand to the next level!EPISODE NOTES: Mastering Social Media for Pet Businesses & Rescues with Skarlet RockwoodBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.

This week, Mary and Alex welcome Sarah Bhimani, the strategic communications manager at Animal Humane Society in Golden Valley, Minnesota, one of the largest private shelters in the U.S. Sarah shares her experiences managing public relations and internal communications for this influential organization. From addressing PR challenges to fostering community engagement, Sarah offers practical advice and valuable strategies for nonprofit organizations looking to amplify their message, advocate for animals, and drive action. Tune in as Sarah discusses how PR has evolved during her tenure, the most rewarding aspects of her work, and tips for connecting with your community. Whether you're a pet professional or a passionate advocate, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable ideas to elevate your efforts!EPISODE NOTES: The PR Playbook for Animal AdvocatesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/whisker-report-pet-pr-publicity-pet-life-radio-original--6669416/support.