After Hours Episode #72: In our latest episode of After Hours, I sit down with Loren Hill Mesquita for a real, unfiltered conversation about growth—both personal and professional. We get into what success really looks like, the importance of boundaries, and the behind-the-scenes reality of running a grooming business. Loren shares openly about her journey with sobriety, building genuine friendships, and how leaning into her individuality has shaped everything she does. It’s honest, relatable, and full of those moments that make you think—or just laugh with us.

Summary

In our latest episode of The Daily Groomer, I'm thrilled to sit down with Lesley Weeks, aka the "grandmother of grooming." We chat about her journey from being Toronto’s first pet groomer to founding Pampered Paws. Lesley opens up about how the industry has evolved—from new equipment and the rise of mobile grooming to changing licensing standards. She also shares her thoughts on the future of grooming and some fun behind-the-scenes stories. It’s an insightful conversation you won’t want to miss!

Timestamps

07:40 Industry Evolution Insights

11:03 Overhead-Based Pricing Formula

16:39 Unregistered Breeds and Health Risks

26:07 Changes in Pet Grooming Education

31:12 Comprehensive Insurance for Groomers

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media Pampered Paws. For more grooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠. Join the pack and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠!

After Hours Episode #71: In our latest episode of After Hours, I'm thrilled to chat with the fabulous Kelsey Ann Sexton. We're getting into all sorts of topics like self-confidence, dealing with business hiccups, and why energy and integrity matter in grooming. Kelsey's all about helping groomers feel more connected and less alone. Plus, we chat about her upcoming Groomers Connection retreat and how personal growth is key in our industry. It's all about being real, finding your people, and always learning. Don't miss this fun and inspiring conversation!

Summary

In our latest episode of The Daily Groomer, I’m chatting with Emily Bennett from Paws and Claws Pet Care in upstate New York. We dive into how she grew her dog grooming side hustle into a 30,000-square-foot pet paradise with over 70 employees. Emily shares her journey from starting out in grooming to launching an awesome pup bus. She also talks about creating a comfortable space for pets and making sure her team loves coming to work. If you’re into stories of growth, creativity, and the pet care world, this one’s for you.

Timestamps

14:56 Pet Care Business Expansion Plan

21:58 Costly Renovations for Cat Boarding

24:36 Rapid Business Scaling Insights

30:58 Reconfiguring Industry for Fair Wages

35:17 Expanding to Meet Service Demand

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media Paws and Claws Pet Care. For more grooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠. Join the pack and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠!

Summary

In our latest episode of The Daily Groomer, I sit down with Erin Shawver, the driving force behind Marcy’s. Erin shares her story of taking over a grooming salon at just 24 and growing it into a thriving spot for pet lovers. We talk about the challenges of expanding, how she keeps her team motivated, and her unique approach to training. It’s a real look at how Erin’s ambition and teamwork have made Marcy’s a standout in the pet grooming world. Don’t miss this one – it’s full of inspiration!

Timestamps

05:42 Departmental Communication Challenges

10:05 Starting a Business Journey

17:53 Groomer Training Path at Marcy's

26:13 Inspiring In-House Grooming Teams

30:07 Future Goals for Marcy's Team

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media Marcy's Grooming & Boarding. For more grooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠. Join the pack and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠!

Summary

In our latest episode of The Daily Groomer, I’m chatting with Jill and Tracy Lynn, the couple behind Fresh Paws Spa. We dive into their story of starting a mobile dog grooming business during the chaos of COVID. Jill opens up about her transition from corporate life to grooming, while Tracy shares some great business insights. We talk about building a loyal customer base, their growth, and the challenges they've faced. If you’re interested in mobile grooming or just enjoy a solid business journey, this episode is a must-listen!

Timestamps

04:22 Choosing Company Name and Branding

12:26 Van Tool Standardization

16:53 Groomer Burnout and Industry Challenges

21:37 SCORE's Impact on Business Development

28:21 Finding the Ideal Customer

32:41 The Power of Referrals

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media Fresh Paws Spa LLC. For more grooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠. Join the pack and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠!

After Hours Episode #70: In our latest episode of After Hours, I'm chatting with the amazing Patricia Lee, who's making waves in the pet grooming world. We discuss her hands-on support for salons impacted by floods in North Carolina and her journey into creative grooming. Patty opens up about her techniques, managing double-coated pets, and the world of cat grooming competitions. Plus, we dive into how you can get certified. Don't miss this insightful conversation!

Summary

In our latest episode of The Daily Groomer, I sit down with Christopher Jackson, the founder of West Coast Grooming Academy. We talk about his journey, from launching his business with just a dream and a few savings to changing the way dog grooming is taught. Christopher opens up about how his academy is raising the bar in the industry, his work with shelters and nonprofits, and the push for licensing to give the profession the recognition it deserves. It's an inspiring conversation about making a real impact in the grooming world and the community. Don't miss it!

Timestamps

03:18 Compassionate Dog Grooming Education

09:42 Pet Groomer Certification Pathway

15:43 Evolving Dog Grooming Standards

24:30 The Future of Pet Grooming Licensing

29:05 Journeyman Program Salon Funding

32:55 Starting Apprenticeships for Licensing

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media West Coast Grooming Academy. For more grooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠. Join the pack and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠!

After Hours Episode #69: In our latest episode of After Hours, I talk about my time at Groomed Atlanta, the first trade show of the year. I had a great time meeting other groomers and checking out new products. It was an awesome event full of energy and excitement. Whether you're just starting out or have been grooming for years, trade shows are a great way to learn and connect with others. Tune in to hear about the highlights and what I took away from the experience.

Summary

In this episode of The Daily Groomer, I chat with Jose Rodriguez, who’s bought not one, but three pet care businesses in just two years! We dive into his incredible journey from techie to dog business owner, and why he chose to buy existing businesses instead of starting from scratch. Jose drops some insider tips on spotting a great business deal and getting your business ready to sell. Whether you're thinking about buying or selling, Jose's got some awesome advice that'll help you on your pet care business journey!

Timestamp

06:05 Exploring Opportunities in Business Acquisition

11:29 Evaluating Business Ownership and Management

16:37 Consider Business Margins Before Buying

21:07 Cost-Cutting Strategies for Businesses

25:01 Employee Retention in Business Acquisitions

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media Seattle Canine Club. For moregrooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠. Join the pack and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠!