Episodios

  • 621: Weddings, Walks, and Winning Clients with Kaitlin Wood

    621: Weddings, Walks, and Winning Clients with Kaitlin Wood
    Aug 13 2025
    Kaitlin Wood of Kaitlin’s Pet Sitting in Chattanooga, TN shares her journey from teenage sitter to full-time business owner. She discusses the evolution of her services, including her growing wedding assistance offering, and the importance of clear client communication. Kaitlin opens up about lessons in time management, setting boundaries, and the struggle of finding trustworthy team members. Her passion for pets and people shines through as she talks about building trust and delivering peace of mind. Main topics: Managing time and personal balance Transitioning from solo sitter to team Building trust through consistency Offering wedding pet services Client expectations and boundary setting Main takeaway: “It’s not just about loving animals—you have to be honest, reliable, and dependable.” Loving pets is only the beginning. What sets great pet sitters apart is their reliability, integrity, and follow-through. Your clients are trusting you with their most beloved companions and their home. They deserve someone who shows up on time, communicates clearly, and follows through on every promise—every time. In an industry where trust is everything, it’s the quiet consistency that builds unshakable peace of mind. Be the sitter you’d want for your own pet. About our guest: Kaitlin Wood is the owner of Kaitlin’s Pet Sitting in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She offers drop-in visits, dog walking, and overnight care, and has recently expanded into wedding day pet assistance—helping pets be part of their owners’ big day. With a background in psychology and a heart for animals, Kaitlin focuses on delivering peace of mind to clients by being trustworthy, responsive, and deeply committed to pet well-being. She’s currently running her business solo but is planning to grow her team and potentially open a boarding location in the future. Links: Instagram - Kaitlin’s Pet Sitting Facebook - Kaitlin’s Pet Sitting 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
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    53 m
  • 620: The 10 Non-negotiables You Need in Your Policies

    620: The 10 Non-negotiables You Need in Your Policies
    Aug 11 2025

    Non-negotiables aren’t just nice-to-have—they’re the backbone of running our pet care business. In this episode, we share the 10 essential policies and procedures we believe every sitter and walker should put in place. From cancellation and payment terms to health requirements and emergency plans, we explain why each matters and how we enforce them. We also talk about the dangers of bending rules too often and how exceptions can quietly become the norm. Through practical examples, we show how we protect our business, clients, and pets by keeping our boundaries clear and consistent.

    Main Topics:

    • Setting clear cancellation policies
    • Payment terms and cash flow stability
    • Booking procedures to avoid missed visits
    • Emergency planning and client communication
    • Health, behavior, and access requirements

    Main Takeaway: “Without clear non-negotiables, you risk running your business on someone else’s terms instead of your own.”

    When you don’t define your boundaries, you leave room for clients, circumstances, and even your own desire to be accommodating to dictate how your business operates. This can lead to burnout, lost income, and stress you didn’t sign up for. Non-negotiables aren’t about being rigid—they’re about protecting your time, your energy, and your ability to serve well. When you decide what’s essential and stick to it, you run your business with intention, not reaction. Take control before someone else does.

    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 2025 Business Summit
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    33 m
  • 619: From Silos to Synergy: Building Better Pet Care Together with Dr. Christie Cornelius

    619: From Silos to Synergy: Building Better Pet Care Together with Dr. Christie Cornelius
    Aug 6 2025
    What happens when pet sitters and independent veterinarians start working together more intentionally? Dr. Christie Cornelius, Director of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association, joins the show to discuss the unique challenges and strengths of independently owned veterinary practices. She explores how pet sitters can play a pivotal role in improving pet health outcomes through strong communication and observation. The conversation covers evolving veterinary trends, AI integration, and practical ways to establish partnerships between sitters and clinics. Dr. Cornelius shares how trust, storytelling, and showing up consistently can build lasting community relationships. Main Topics Independent veterinary clinic challengesPet sitter-veterinarian collaborationAI in veterinary careBuilding trust and communicationEnd-of-life and hospice pet care Main takeaway: “What they want is they want to be invited into your mission, and they want to participate in that, and then showing them how care is actually a collective act builds those lasting bonds.” As pet sitters, we often feel like we’re doing it all on our own. But the truth is, the most powerful care happens when we collaborate. Pet parents are craving connection and clarity—they want to know that their sitter, their vet, and everyone involved in their pet’s life are on the same page. When we open the door to cooperation, we don’t just lighten our load—we build bonds that benefit the pet most. Invite others into your mission. That’s where the magic happens. About our guest: Dr. Christie Cornelius is a veterinarian with over two decades of experience, currently serving as the Director of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association. After founding Texas’s first water-based pet cremation and home hospice care business, she sold her practice to help launch BluePearl’s national pet hospice program. Now, she focuses on consulting and empowering other independent vets through leadership, business strategy, and community collaboration. Based on Galveston Island, Dr. Cornelius also provides in-home veterinary services in her local area. Links: https://www.iveterinarians.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: 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 National Association of Professional Pet Sitters: www.petsitters.org
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    49 m
  • 618: Building a Self-Strengthening Business

    618: Building a Self-Strengthening Business
    Aug 4 2025

    In this episode, we explore what makes a pet care business stronger over time. Using the example of Corten steel—designed to strengthen through exposure—we discuss how intentional systems and experiences build long-term resilience. We share six key areas to focus on, including SOPs, hiring, marketing, education, feedback, and boundaries. Each one is like a layer of protection that helps your business weather challenges and grow stronger. It’s an honest look at what it takes to build something that lasts.

    Main topics:

    • SOPs as foundational strength

    • Hiring for long-term alignment

    • Patient, persistent marketing

    • Continuous education and training

    • Feedback loops and business boundaries

    Main takeaway: Your business doesn’t need to be perfect—it needs to be built to get stronger with every challenge.

    Every tough season, every uncomfortable piece of feedback, every slow marketing return—it all has the potential to make your business better. The key is embracing the process and building systems that grow stronger with time, not weaker. We don’t have to shine to be successful; we have to last. And that means showing up, learning, refining, and weathering the storms on purpose.

    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 2025 Business Summit
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    25 m
  • 617: Building a Community Pet Store That Sticks with Morgan and Austin Weber

    617: Building a Community Pet Store That Sticks with Morgan and Austin Weber
    Jul 30 2025

    What happens when pet sitters take the leap into retail? Morgan and Austin Weber, owners of Lucky Pup Adventures, share how they purchased and now run Woofs and Waves, a beloved community pet store in Sioux Falls. They dive into the differences between managing a service business and a retail space, including inventory, staff training, and community outreach. They reflect on their complementary strengths and how they divide responsibilities for long-term growth. They also share how they’re staying intentional about values, culture, and customer experience while preparing for potential future expansion.

    Main Topics

    • Transitioning from service to retail

    • Staff training and team culture

    • Community outreach and partnerships

    • Inventory and product selection

    • Preparing for business growth

    Main takeaway: “You don’t have to know everything about everything—you just need the right people passionate about the right things.”

    Running a business—especially in the pet industry—can feel overwhelming. From inventory and client care to marketing and employee training, there’s always something new to learn. But the truth is, you don’t need to be an expert in it all. What matters most is building a team where each person brings their strengths and passions to the table. When your fish lover geeks out over tanks and your dog nerd knows every ingredient in your food aisle, magic happens. Hire well, empower your people, and let their passion lead the way.

    Links:

    https://woofsandwaves.com

    https://www.instagram.com/woofsandwaves/

    https://www.facebook.com/woofsandwaves

    Check out our Starter Packs

    See all of our discounts!

    Check out ProTrainings
    Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off

    📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260

    Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter

    Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com

    Full show notes and transcript

    Sponsored by:

    ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters

    Time to Pet
    Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional
    Code: 50% off first 3 months

    Pet Perennials
    Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account
    Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days
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    1 h y 6 m
  • 616: The Bankruptcy of Wag!: What It Means for Us

    616: The Bankruptcy of Wag!: What It Means for Us
    Jul 28 2025

    Wag!, one of the largest gig economy pet care platforms, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is undergoing a rapid restructuring. This episode explores the deeper issues behind Wag’s financial collapse, including its flawed business model, sitter churn, and lack of consistent, relationship-driven care. The discussion highlights how investor interest is shifting away from gig platforms toward higher-margin services like pet insurance and veterinary e-commerce. Independent pet care providers are uniquely positioned to meet modern client expectations through professionalism, trust, and personalized service. As the industry changes, quality and consistency are emerging as the new standard in pet care.

    Main Topics

    • Wag!’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy

    • Gig economy pet care flaws

    • Independent sitter advantages

    • Investor market shifts

    • Trust, consistency, and professionalism

    Main Takeaway: “Pet care isn’t like ride-sharing—you can’t just put a body in front of a dog and call it service.”

    Apps may make booking easy, but ease doesn’t equal quality. True pet care is built on trust, consistency, and connection—not convenience alone. Your clients want to know who’s walking their dog, how they’re trained, and that they’ll actually show up and care. That’s something no algorithm can guarantee.

    This is why independent pet care professionals matter now more than ever.

    Links:

    Episode 446 on Aggregation Theory

    Check out our Starter Packs

    See all of our discounts!

    Check out ProTrainings
    Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off

    📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260

    Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter

    Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com

    Full show notes and transcript

    Sponsored by:

    ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters

    Pet Sitters Associates
    Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com
    Code: Confessional

    DogCo 2025 Business Summit
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    20 m
  • 615: Boundaries, Budgets, and Burnout with Rachelle Steele

    615: Boundaries, Budgets, and Burnout with Rachelle Steele
    Jul 23 2025

    Are you treating your pet sitting like a real business? In this episode, Rachelle Steele of Loving Arms Pet Services returns to share how she transitioned from a hobbyist mindset to confidently leading her company. She dives deep into boundaries with clients, why setting an emergency fund is crucial, and how she prices her services based on value—not competition. Rachelle also opens up about preparing for the future, possible expansion, and navigating the mental shift from animal lover to business leader. Her advice is practical, empowering, and a must-listen for anyone ready to stop winging it and start planning with purpose.

    Main Topics

    • Business mindset development

    • Setting boundaries with clients

    • Pricing strategy based on value

    • Emergency fund and long-term planning

    • Balancing emotion and professionalism

    Main takeaway: “I will defend my peace before I defend my pricing.”

    Let that sink in.

    As pet professionals, we often feel pressure to justify our rates. But what if we stopped negotiating our worth and instead stood firm on what gives us peace, freedom, and sustainability? That’s exactly what Rachelle Steele of Loving Arms Pet Services is doing. In our newest Pet Sitter Confessional episode, she shares how a business mindset, firm boundaries, and intentional planning have helped her build a fulfilling and resilient career.

    Links:

    Previously on Episode 419: https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/episodes/419

    Website: lapskc.com

    Email: lovingarmspetserviceskc@gmail.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lapsforpets

    Check out our Starter Packs

    See all of our discounts!

    Check out ProTrainings
    Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off

    📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260

    Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter

    Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com

    Full show notes and transcript

    Sponsored by:

    ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters

    Time to Pet
    Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional
    Code: 50% off first 3 months

    Pet Perennials
    Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account
    Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days
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    1 h y 9 m
  • 614: How to Listen Instead of React

    614: How to Listen Instead of React
    Jul 21 2025

    Business owners often feel compelled to defend every policy and decision. We share a recent incident that brought that into sharp focus. We explore why learning to observe rather than react is a skill worth cultivating. From dealing with difficult client feedback to navigating aggressive Facebook comments, we share some personal stories and hard-earned lessons in restraint. Observation leads to better leadership, stronger boundaries, and a healthier business culture. Remember, not everything deserves a reply—sometimes the best response is no response at all.

    Main Topics

    • Emotional regulation in business
    • Handling online criticism gracefully
    • Responding to client complaints
    • Leadership through observation
    • Protecting energy and mental health

    Main Takeaway: “Remind yourself that not everything needs a reply. Some things need maturity and margin and a deep breath.”

    In pet care—and business in general—it’s tempting to fire back immediately when someone questions your work, your policies, or your prices. But not every situation calls for a response. Often, the wiser path is observation: gathering context, cooling down, and responding with clarity rather than emotion. Protect your energy. Reserve it for the pets and people who trust you day in and day out. Leadership starts with emotional discipline.

    Links:

    Check out our Starter Packs

    See all of our discounts!

    Check out ProTrainings
    Code: CPR-petsitterconfessional for 10% off

    📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260

    Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter

    Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com

    Full show notes and transcript

    Sponsored by:

    ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters

    Pet Sitters Associates
    Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com
    Code: Confessional

    DogCo 2025 Business Summit
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    34 m