In this episode of the PetBiz Podcast, hosted by Janie Budnick, founder and CEO of multiple successful pet businesses, Janie interviews Joe Zuccarello from the Paragon School of Pet Grooming. They discuss the state of the pet grooming industry, strategies for scaling pet services businesses, and the future of mobile grooming. Joe shares his vast experience in the industry, highlighting the importance of training and mentoring, and provides actionable advice for recruiting and retaining skilled staff. The episode also covers effective marketing tactics and innovative ways to integrate grooming services into pet care facilities. Joe offers insights into the significant growth of mobile grooming and how businesses can leverage this trend. Additionally, recommended readings for business and personal development are shared, providing listeners with resources to improve their leadership and business management skills.

00:00 Introduction to the Pet Biz Podcast

00:48 Meet Joe Zuccarello from Paragon School of Pet Grooming

02:15 Joe's Journey in the Pet Industry

03:53 The Evolution of Paragon Pet Grooming School

04:43 Impact of the Pandemic on Pet Grooming Education

08:58 Paragon's Mentorship and Training Programs

13:34 The Future of the Pet Grooming Industry

16:42 The Rise of Mobile and In-Home Pet Services

21:23 Investing in People and Growing Leaders

28:12 Impact of the Gig Economy on Employment

28:51 Embracing Change in the Job Market

29:23 Strategies for Hiring in the Pet Industry

30:47 Fishing vs. Hunting for Talent

32:01 Targeting High Schools and Job Fairs

35:22 Exploring 4-H, FFA, and Scouting for Talent

38:52 Building a Farm Team for Grooming

41:13 The Doodle Grooming Niche

44:04 Retaining Employees and Building Culture

46:54 Recommended Business Books

50:35 Conclusion and Resources

LINKS

National Cat Groomers Institute

JOE'S BOOK PICKS

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Traction by Gino Wickman

Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely

Misbehaving by Richard H. Thaler

CONNECT WITH JOE

Paragon School of Pet Grooming

Hey Joe! Podcast

Hey there 👋 I’m Janie Budnick - Host of the PetBiz Podcast and founder of the PetBiz University™, including the PetBizMBA® Business Accelerator and the PetBizCRM™ Relationship Manager solution. No matter how far you are down the pet business path from START to FREEDOM I we are here to help!

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