562: Give Yourself a Deadline

Are you constantly juggling tasks and struggling to get everything done? In this episode, Collin and Meghan discuss the power of setting deadlines and working in focused time blocks to tackle endless to-do lists. They share how short, intentional intervals can improve decision-making, preserve energy, and increase productivity. Whether you’re managing hires, tackling admin tasks, or balancing work-life demands, this episode offers practical tools to help you get more done without burning out.

561: Exploring New Chapters with Aimee Thomas

What would it take for you to step away from your business and start a new chapter? In this episode, Aimee Thomas, former owner of Leashes to Leads Pet Care, shares her journey of transitioning from a thriving pet care business to an exciting new role working on a 100-acre farm. Aimee reflects on the challenges of leaving her business behind, the power of a strong pet sitting network, and how she ensured her clients were cared for during the transition. She also discusses her passion for high-end pet care, live-in services, and how staying open to new opportunities led her to a fulfilling new path. Whether you’re considering a career change or simply curious about what it takes to close one chapter and embrace another, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.

560: Practical AI in Your Business

Have you ever wondered how AI can improve your pet care business without losing your personal touch? In this episode, we explore the practical ways AI can enhance productivity, client communication, and decision-making while keeping your brand's authenticity intact. From target marketing and content creation to using AI in hiring processes, we share how to make AI work for you—not replace you. We also dive into how to ensure AI reflects your voice and values, and why it's essential to use it as a tool to streamline tasks, not as a substitute for human connection.

559: The Art of Trust with Catherine Oury

How do you build lasting trust with your clients while staying true to yourself? In this episode, Catherine Oury, owner of Ladybug Pet Care, shares how authenticity has been the cornerstone of her success as a solo pet sitter. From managing client expectations for overnight stays to setting boundaries for a better work-life balance, Catherine opens up about the lessons she’s learned in over five years of business. She highlights the importance of fostering genuine, long-term relationships with clients and tailoring services to align with personal and professional values. Whether you’re a solo sitter or managing a team, Catherine’s story offers powerful insights on balancing passion with sustainable growth.

558: Recovery After a Busy Season

How do you recover and refocus after a hectic holiday season in your pet care business? In this episode, we discuss the importance of using the slower January and February months to reflect on lessons learned from the holiday rush. From identifying and fixing cracks in your systems to celebrating wins and refining your processes, we highlight practical strategies for improvement. We also emphasize the need for strategic rest to recharge and sustain momentum for the year ahead. Tune in for actionable tips on balancing recovery with planning, so you can approach the next busy season with confidence.

557: Scaling with Heart with Amy Addington

Ever feel like the stress of competition overshadows the joy of your work? Amy Addington, President and Co-Founder of Woofie’s, shares her 20-year journey from a $10 dog walk to leading a thriving pet care franchise. Amy dives into the power of relationships in business, how to build trust with clients, and the importance of staying flexible in a changing industry. She also unpacks the challenges and rewards of franchising, the role of branding in maintaining consistency, and why networking—even with competitors—is essential. Full of insights and actionable tips, this episode will inspire you to lead with heart and build a pet care business that thrives on trust and connection.

556: Recognition Starts with You: Building Inner Drive

Are you ready to take control of your motivation and redefine success in your pet care business? In this episode, we explore the importance of recognizing your hard work and celebrating wins, even when no one else is watching. We dive into how building trust with clients and staying aligned with your mission can fuel your drive. From reflecting on your values to embracing the challenges of serving others, we share practical tips to keep your momentum strong throughout the year. Tune in to discover how self-recognition can empower you to build a business you’re truly proud of.

555: Finding Peace in the Chaos with Pamela Ahart-Steward & Beth Greenberg Cotell

Ever feel like your business is running you instead of the other way around? Pamela Ahart-Steward and Beth Greenberg Cotell, founders of Monarchs in Motion, share their journey of discovering balance and intentional living as business owners. They discuss the challenges of burnout, the importance of setting boundaries, and how saying "no" can create space for what truly matters. Drawing from their 26 years of experience, they offer actionable advice on transforming your approach to business and embracing personal growth. Packed with inspiration and practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to build a business that supports both their life and their goals.

554: Strategies for a Stronger and More Focused Business

Are you ready to make 2025 your strongest year yet? This episode dives into the power of introspection and proactive planning to drive business growth while reducing stress. We share some strategies for balancing challenges and celebrating wins, emphasizing the importance of setting clear goals and staying focused. We discuss how niching down and refining your services can align your business with your personal vision. Tune in to learn how to create a stronger, more intentional path for your pet care business.

552: Real vs. Artificial: Building a Meaningful Pet Care Business

Are you spending time on what truly matters in your business, or are you distracted by quick fixes and flashy promises? We dive into how to differentiate between what’s real and what’s artificial, from client relationships to business opportunities. Learn how to ask the right questions, avoid common distractions, and focus on strategies that bring long-term value. Discover why patience, intentionality, and meaningful connections are essential for building a lasting, impactful business. Tune in to uncover practical tips for staying focused and creating a business you’re proud of.

551: Breaking Negative Mindsets: Practical Tools for Growth with Kristin Morrison

What’s holding you back from reaching your full potential—your mindset or your habits? Kristin Morrison explores the powerful impact of mindset on business and personal growth. She unpacks strategies for breaking free from negative loops, creating affirmations that actually work, and incorporating daily practices like journaling and movement to foster resilience. Kristin also shares practical advice on overcoming self-sabotage and finding balance amidst the chaos of running a business. If you’re ready to reclaim your time, energy, and confidence, this episode is a must-listen!

550: Pricing is a Signal

What does your pricing say about your business? We start with a recent update on the BOI filing requirement for US businesses and then dive into how pricing acts as a powerful signal, shaping client expectations and perceptions of our services. We explore the importance of aligning pricing with professionalism, trust, and value while steering clear of the temptation to lower rates to match competitors. Instead, we focus on using client feedback and market insights to refine our messaging and emphasize what makes us unique. We discuss how pricing helps guide resource allocation, influence client behavior, and reflect demand. Whether it’s adjusting for high-demand seasons or crafting premium offerings, our pricing tells a story about who we are and what we deliver.

549: Building a Better Business One Step at a Time with Mo Thompson

How do you turn everyday dog walks into safe, enriching adventures? Mo Thompson, owner of Mo Mountain Mutts, explores her unique approach to dog walking, training, and pack dynamics. Mo shares how she uses structured training, reliable recall, and intentional programs to create off-leash adventures that build confidence and control. She also dives into the importance of clear client communication, adaptability, and continual improvement in running a successful pet care business.

548: Avoiding Snap Decisions: Overcoming Recency Bias

How do you avoid letting the present overshadow the past and future in your business? In this episode, we dive into the concept of recency bias and its impact on decision-making. We discuss how relying solely on recent experiences can lead to emotional exhaustion, poor decisions, and skewed priorities. By balancing intuition with data, setting clear boundaries, and reviewing long-term trends, you can make more informed choices for your business. Overcoming recency bias is essential for building a thoughtful, sustainable, and successful business.

547: Finding Key Differentiators with Michelle Kline

What makes your pet care business stand out in a competitive market? Michelle Kline, founder of DogCo Launch, shares about the power of key differentiators and how they can make your business irresistible to the right clients. Michelle breaks down what differentiators are, why they matter, and how to identify them in ways that resonate with your target audience. From leveraging client feedback to refining your messaging, she gives actionable strategies for positioning your services uniquely—without overcomplicating your operations. Whether you’re looking to refine your offerings or rethink your marketing, this episode is packed with insights to help your business shine.

546: Making Time

How do you make time for yourself while running a busy business? In this episode, we explore the importance of structuring your business to protect your time and mental health. A strong pricing strategy helps you work smarter, not harder, while setting clear booking boundaries brings predictability to your schedule. By fostering respectful client relationships, you can build a loyal base of cheerleaders who genuinely want the best for you. Additionally, learning to say no to certain clients benefits your business far beyond financial gain. Protecting your time isn’t selfish—it’s the foundation of a sustainable and thriving business.

545: Building a Feline-Focused Business with Michelle McLean

Ever wondered how focusing on a niche can transform your pet care business? Michelle McLean, owner of Michelle’s Caring Cat Services, shares her journey of building a thriving, cat-exclusive pet care brand in Ottawa, Ontario. Michelle dives into her transition from marketing to cat sitting, her efforts to re-establish her business after a major move, and how specializing in feline care has set her apart in a competitive market. We discuss her strategies for connecting with clients on a personal level, building trust through certifications, and creating community around cats through events and education. Michelle also highlights the importance of going beyond traditional pet care to become a resource and advocate for cat owners. This conversation is an inspiring look at how passion, expertise, and connection can drive business success.

544: Seizing Opportunities Through Decisive Action

Have you prioritized your personal life over your business? We recently took a spontaneous long road trip to preserve a piece of our family's history. On this podcast episode, we discuss how having clear priorities simplifies decision-making and enables decisive action when time is limited. The importance of follow-through and finishing what you start, even when motivation wanes, should be a central theme in our lives and business. Finally, we highlight how self-care is essential for sustaining personal and professional success, ensuring you can show up as your best self for your business and clients.

543: Trust is the Ultimate Asset in Pet Care with Dan Reitman

Ever wondered what it takes to build unwavering trust with clients in the pet care industry? Dan Reitman, owner of Dan’s Pet Care discusses into his journey of building a trusted pet care brand. Dan shares his evolution from a solo dog walker to managing a large-scale business that includes daycare and kennel-free boarding, emphasizing the importance of maintaining client trust throughout. We explore his challenges in deciding when to keep things in-house versus partnering, as well as his commitment to ensuring high standards of care in an increasingly competitive industry. Dan also opens up about overcoming personal and business-related fears, pushing himself to learn and grow continuously. This conversation is a deep dive into why trust remains the ultimate asset in pet services and how it can drive sustainable success.