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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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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 [email protected] 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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

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: [email protected] 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

What kind of business are you actually running—premium or luxury? In this episode, we unpack the critical difference between commodity, premium, and luxury brands and why that distinction matters for pet sitters and dog walkers. We explore how most pet care businesses market themselves with premium messaging even though the service clients are buying is deeply emotional and closer to luxury. We discuss why feature lists like insurance, certifications, and software can unintentionally push you into price comparisons. And we explain how shifting toward lifestyle and identity-based messaging can attract the right clients and build stronger brand loyalty. Main topics:  Commodity vs Premium vs Luxury How Clients Actually Buy Premium Feature-Based Marketing Problem Luxury Identity and Belonging Aligning Messaging With Clients Main takeaway: Luxury buyers aren't asking what makes you better—they're asking, 'Are these my kind of people? For years, the industry has focused on features: insurance, certifications, software, and years of experience. Those things absolutely matter—but they aren't usually the reason a client chooses you. Pet care is emotional. People want to know that the person walking their dog or caring for their cat understands their values, their philosophy, and the way they see their pet. When clients feel that connection, they stop comparing checklists and start choosing relationships. 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 us on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter Email us at: [email protected] 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

What does it mean to truly support clients—and your team—when a beloved pet passes away? Collin talks with Shannon Rigby, owner of Puppy Love Pet Sitting in Wimberley, Texas, about the emotional side of pet care and her work as a certified Pet Loss Grief Support Specialist. Shannon shares how her psychology background led her to this calling, how grief shows up for both clients and sitters, and the healthy ways to honor those feelings. They also discuss community engagement, team well-being, and creating resources that strengthen connection. This heartfelt conversation reminds us that love and loss are both part of the work we do. Main topics: Supporting grieving pet parents Emotional wellness for pet sitters Building community partnerships Turning compassion into business growth Healthy grief and healing practices Main takeaway: "The greater the love, the greater the loss—and it's not meant to be healed in a snap." In pet care, we see love in its purest form every day. But we also witness the heartbreak when that love is lost. Shannon Rigby reminds us that grief isn't something to rush through—it's something to honor. By allowing clients (and ourselves) to feel, reflect, and remember, we can transform sorrow into gratitude for the bond we were privileged to share. 💛 About our guest: Shannon Rigby is the owner of Puppy Love Pet Sitting in Wimberley, Texas. With a background in psychology and two certifications in Pet Loss Grief Support, she blends compassion with expertise to serve both pets and people. Since 2003, she's built a thriving business known for heartfelt care, strong community involvement, and an emphasis on emotional well-being for both clients and team members. Shannon's mission is to ensure every pet—and every person—feels seen, loved, and supported. Links: Website: www.puppylovewimberley.com Facebook: @PuppyLoveWimberley Instagram: @PuppyLoveWimberley American Academy of Grief Counseling: https://aihcp.net Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement: https://aplb.org 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: [email protected] 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 International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months