When AshleyAshleigh first stepped into the world of animal grooming, little did she know that her high school program would set the stage for her future as the spirited owner of Little Jenna's Grooming. Join us as Ashleigh unfolds her inspiring story, from dreaming of becoming a vet to mastering the shears and opening the doors to her successful Virginia salon. Her tale is one of determination and heart, a beacon for anyone navigating the triumphs and trials of small business ownership, especially in the pet care industry.

This episode is a treasure trove for grooming enthusiasts and business managers alike, as Ashleigh pulls back the curtain on the intricate dance of managing a grooming salon. Discover what it takes to train new bathers, the value of a diverse skill set among staff, and how to uphold exceptional service quality that clients and their furry friends can depend on. Ashleigh insights into nurturing a team of groomers, handling a variety of personalities in the workplace, and creating an empathetic, family-like culture are not just strategies; they're the lifeblood of any thriving service business.

Our conversation with Ashleigh goes beyond the shears and suds, tackling hard-hitting topics such as employee turnover, resilience in the face of burnout, and the fine line between compassion and maintaining solid business policies. Her personal journey through the challenges of 2020, while juggling the roles of an owner, manager, and expectant mother, is a candid exploration of leadership under pressure. Whether you're knee-deep in the grooming business or simply looking to glean insights from a resilient entrepreneur, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom and encouragement to never give up, no matter what life—or business—throws your way.

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When Erin Fitzpatrick, a wiz with the shears from Posh Pooch, steps into the room, you can't help but feel inspired by her journey from a 4-H kid to a groomer whose work graces the prestigious AKC dog shows. In our heart-to-heart, Erin peels back the curtain on the dog grooming world, sharing how the support from her family and mentors propelled her passion into a blossoming career. She doesn't shy away from the tougher aspects either, discussing the nuances of hiring the right team, fostering a salon culture that shines, and the resilience needed to thrive in this industry.

Diving headfirst into the realm of pet grooming businesses, we uncover the art of managing employee performance, dealing with the aftermath of workplace incidents, and the importance of transparent communication—all while keeping your cool. Erin's approach to setbacks is a masterclass in empathy and understanding, revealing that even accidents can fortify trust with clients when handled with honesty and care. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone steering their own ship in the grooming business or any venture where maintaining a sterling reputation is key.

Wrapping up, we turn to the crux of why we do what we do—the love for our canine companions. Erin and I reflect on the impact of regular grooming on a dog's health and happiness, and the ongoing mission to educate pet owners about the importance of proper care. We leave you with a call to action: to find your 'why', to nurture your passion, and to surround yourself with a network that fuels your growth just as we have. Join us as we share tales of resilience and a love for dogs that binds us all together in this fulfilling journey.

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Are you ready to hear how to make the stress of holiday grooming a joyous part of the season? Join us in the latest episode of Plush Talk, as we chat with award-winning groomer, Sophia Staples, offering unique insights from her experiences as a mobile groomer during the holiday rush. We discuss the challenges of last-minute requests, the importance of setting boundaries and the exciting potential for holiday upselling opportunities. 

This lively discussion isn't just for groomers! We uncover the dynamics of the client-groomer relationship, emphasizing the significance of respect, understanding, and effective communication from both parties. We share valuable advice, from scheduling appointments early to being flexible with your groomer's time. We also chat about how clients can bring holiday cheer to their groomer through small acts of appreciation. 

As we dig deeper into the personal connections in our line of work, we recount heartwarming stories of how a festive atmosphere can make a world of difference for our clients. Hear us recount our experiences with decorating our mobile grooming vans and the pure joy it brings to our fluffy clientele. From accountability in scheduling to the origin of "festivus", this episode has got it all, uniting the dog grooming community in the spirit of the holidays. Buckle up and join us in this heartwarming episode!

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Ever found yourself nervous about grooming a senior or disabled dog? Embrace curiosity and tune in as we navigate the intricate art of grooming these special furry friends with Ashley, also known to her Instagram followers as Ash, the Spooky Groomer. Together we explore Ash's own journey into the grooming industry, discussing her initial fears, her growth, and the valuable lessons she's learned along the way. 

Our conversation takes us deep into the heart of grooming elderly and disabled dogs, discussing a recent controversy regarding corporate grooming age limits and the potential legal implications involved. We also delve into the crucial need for advancing education within the grooming industry and highlight the challenges and rewards of grooming older or disabled dogs. This episode serves as a reassuring reminder that it's okay if not every groomer feels equipped to handle senior or disabled dogs. 

As we wrap up the episode, we share some of our favorite moments from grooming these special companions. Experience the joy and satisfaction we feel when seeing the transformation of these dogs post-grooming. The gratitude in the eyes of a groomed senior dog is a reward like no other. So, whether you're a seasoned groomer or just starting out, this episode is a treasure trove of insights, tips, and heartwarming stories. Remember, every dog, regardless of their age or disability, deserves kindness, gentleness, and a good grooming.

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Are you ready to learn the truth about Doodle's? Explore the world of these adorable canines with Stephanie, The Doodle Specialist on instagram, as we navigate the world of Doodle breeding, grooming, and maintenance. Get ready to debunk common misconceptions and understand the hard truths about these popular mix breeds. 

Unravel the complexities of what constitutes a Doodle and the American Kennel Club's stringent standards in our revealing chat with Stephanie. We cover everything from the different coat types we encounters in our  grooming practice to the psychological impact of the grooming process . You'd be surprised at how much more goes into the breeding and grooming of these dogs than meets the eye. 

We do not shy away from the tough topics either. Neglected grooming routines, the challenges and risks associated with backyard breeding, or the potential health issues that arise from questionable practices are all part of the discussion. Stephanie, Sarah & Ramiel, provides invaluable insights into the responsibilities of a Doodle owner, emphasizing the significance of regular grooming and maintenance for the health and wellbeing of these cute pooches. So, join us and let's build a more informed, compassionate, and responsible dog community together. Let's strive to ensure our Doodle friends lead the happiest and healthiest lives possible.

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Ever feel like you're constantly trying to fit into a mold that doesn't quite capture your unique skills and authenticity? This episode is for you. Listen in as we unravel the journey of a self-taught dog groomer, social media influencer, and TV personality Brian Marshall, known as the Dog Barber. Brian peels back the layers of his grooming style, the importance of comfort, and the power of breaking away from traditional norms. An enlightening dive into the core of what makes his grooming experience distinctively unique, for both himself and the pet.

We pull back the curtain on core grooming fundamentals such as preparation, the right tools and products, and the critical role authenticity plays in standing out in this industry. Brian also opens up about his TV stint and the pressure that comes with social media followership. He offers hard-won advice to upcoming groomers to focus on their craft and never judge a dog by one photo - a lesson in context and perspective. We also delve into the balance between showcasing work on social media whilst remaining true to your authentic self, resonating genuine content that mirrors your passion. 

In the final act, we explore the importance of aligning your clientele with your core values, how to spot a dog's natural beauty and unlock its potential through grooming. Brian shares his thoughts on self-care, social media limitations, and dog training. We discuss how to inject your personality into your platform, and how engaging with other groomers can dissipate industry intimidation. Tune in for a rich and engaging conversation on building confidence, avoiding the trap of self-comparison in the grooming industry, and harnessing the power of authenticity.

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Imagine transforming your pet grooming business into a force to be reckoned with through effective branding and marketing. Experience first-hand insights from Nina, the co-founder and creative director of Groom House, as she reveals how her background in art, graphic design, and marketing has empowered her business. Nina's expertise in creating successful marketing campaigns and her attentiveness to the finer details have been instrumental in her brand's success. In our discussion, we stress the importance of establishing a distinctive brand identity that accurately encapsulates your business.

Wondering how to make your grooming portfolio truly shine? We delve into how personalization can create a stellar portfolio and foster a strong bond with your clients. Nina shares her unique approach to customer service, delivering the unexpected and leaving a lasting impression. We also touch on the challenges of business ownership, viewing them as opportunities for growth and development. To top it off, we emphasize presenting a professional image online with a website that not only represents your brand, but makes your portfolio stand out from the pack.

Ever thought about how branding goes beyond just a logo? It's all about understanding your services and ensuring your brand logo represents that. As we discuss the crowd-sourcing process and the value of unlimited revisions, we highlight how understanding your brand's vibe plays a fundamental role. We also explore the importance of maintaining a consistent brand image, from your website to your portfolio, and even when recruiting potential employees. Join us as we navigate the pet grooming industry's landscape, offering you valuable insights to elevate your business to new heights.

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Have you ever questioned the safety of your four-legged friends at the grooming salon? This episode tells the tragic tale of Atlas, the poodle from Tulsa, Oklahoma, whose life was tragically cut short allegedly at the hands of a groomer. We're joined by Rachel, an experienced groomer of 11 years, who shares the conflicting accounts of the incident, the released footage, and the ongoing investigation. 

The death of Atlas is not just another sad story, it's a call for systemic change. Rachel offers a unique perspective on the grooming industry and shares her own experiences, including a traumatic incident she faced in a salon. Our discussion ranges from the responsibilities and challenges faced by grooming salon employees to the crucial need for advocacy, adequate training, and the importance of taking time-outs when handling unruly animals.

But the question remains, how do we ensure our furry friends are in safe hands? As we navigate the unregulated world of pet grooming, we discuss the importance of asking the right questions, observing grooming behavior, and standing up for both the animal and the groomer. We hope that this conversation encourages you to take action, ensuring the safety and comfort of your pets. So, lend us your ear as we recount the heartbreaking story of Atlas, and strive towards making the grooming industry a safer place for all animals.
All links to video footage will be linked at footer.
Petition to shut down salon:

https://www.change.org/p/justice-for-atlas-shut-down-doggy-doodles-grooming-and-elite-doodles-premier-dog-grooming/sign?original_footer_petition_id=34814086&algorithm=promoted&source_location=petition_footer&grid_position=1&pt=AVBldGl0aW9uAIsrOwIAAAAAZRP9l8Cuqhs0ZTQ4MTA2Nw%3D%3D#:~:text=By%20signing%20this%20petition%2C%20we,Ct%20in%20Bixby%2C%20OK%2074008.

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Ever wanted to know what it's like to form a bond with a rescue dog while competing in a grooming competition? Well, sit tight because today I'm sharing my heartwarming experience at the Hershey competition. It was an unforgettable journey filled with highs and lows, from overcoming the initial intimidation of competing to savoring the sweetness of victory with over 40 awards. The real prize, however, was the special bond I formed with my rescue dog team mate, who showed me the true value of connection and compassion.

We then turn the conversation to a topic close to our hearts - dogs in shelters. Drawing from my experiences at the Hershey competition, we delve into the intricacies of understanding and catering to the needs of these dogs. I share some of the challenges and sweet victories, like offering the dog some salmon jerky and witnessing his joy. Also, we have a special surprise waiting for you - a giveaway you'll definitely want to participate in!

Lastly, we give you some exciting updates about our podcast, and yes, that includes more giveaways! We are immensely grateful for your unwavering support and appreciation, which has kept us motivated. We also take a moment to applaud our friend Sophia's achievement of bagging the 'Up-and-Coming Groomer of the Year' award! So, buckle up and join us on this journey filled with enriching insights about the world of pet grooming and dog shelters. Trust us, there's much more in store for you!

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Join Sarah & Ramiel as they discuss what a valued client looks like to them, what it could like for you and how to change your mindset if you're fed up with your clients. Listen to the two go over lots in this episode and even get into a few other things, that we hope you will find valuable.  Also, some exciting information is being announced so click download and start listening now!



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