Episodes
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Is your marketing tank running on empty? 🚙
Marketing is the fuel that keeps your business engine running, and this episode is alllll about discovering strategies to fill up your customer's tank!
In this episode, Fernando Camacho, CEO of OverDog Digital, shares his well-earned expertise on marketing strategies specifically tailored for pet businesses.
With over 15 years of experience in the pet industry, including roles as a dog trainer, dog daycare employee, and marketing consultant, Fern knows exactly how to attract, convert, and retain more customers without burning out.
Listen in to learn:
⛽ Why taking care of existing customers should be your first priority before seeking new ones.
⛽ The surprising percentage of revenue you should be investing in marketing (hint: it's more than you think!)
⛽ How to create marketing campaigns that’ll win back customers you might’ve lost along the way.
⛽ Why you have to be the face of your business to build trust!
⛽ The difference between long-term marketing strategies (like SEO) vs. quick-win tactics (like paid ads.)
⛽ And so much more!
So, ready to boss your marketing game? Whether you’re DIYing your marketing or have money to invest in it, this episode will show you how to turn your pet business into a well-oiled marketing machine that consistently attracts and retains customers!
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Ever caught yourself saying, "This isn't for me..." when looking into business growth opportunities?
In this myth-busting episode, Candace tackles the most common misconception about Pet Boss Nation-- that it's "just for retailers."
Drawing from her experience running six different types of pet businesses, she reveals why this mindset might be a psychological "excuse" that's masking deeper fears holding you back from success!
In this episode, you'll learn:
🐾 Why Pet Boss Nation serves ALL pet business niches (with proof! We're busting this myth once and for all!)
🐾 The real psychological barriers keeping pet businesses from growth
🐾 The specific resources available for each of the SIX (or more!) pet business niches we serve.
🐾 How one program can serve multiple pet industry niches effectively.
🐾 Real success stories from within those six niches!
Whether you're running a grooming salon, pet bakery, doggy daycare, self-wash facility, pet sitting business, or retail store, this episode exposes the excuses we tell ourselves and proves how Pet Boss Nation supports every corner of the pet industry.
Don't let fear of vulnerability masquerade as "it's not for me." Listen in to discover how facing these challenges head-on can transform your business in 2025!
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Missing episodes?
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Great collaborations lead to powerful conversations! 🧠
In this special episode, we're sharing Candace's appearance on the Big Brave Business podcast with our very own podcast producer, Sarah Heeter!
Candace opened up to Sarah about her 25-year entrepreneurial journey in ways she hasn't before on the Pet Boss Podcast, so we thought it was especially important to share this conversation with our Pet Boss Podcast listeners!
Join Candace and Sarah as they discuss what it truly means to be "big and brave" in business beyond the typical entrepreneurial advice.
In this episode, you'll learn:
💪 How the concept of business bravery evolves at different stages of your pet business' growth.
💪 Why "hire slow, fire fast" isn't always the best approach, and how to decide when to use it (or not!)
💪 The real role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership and how it impacts your business.
💪 Common pitfalls to avoid when scaling your business.
💪 Why trend-chasing won't matter in the long run. It's really about mastering fundamentals!
Whether you're just starting your Pet Boss journey or leading a very established pet business, this candid conversation offers fresh perspectives on authentic leadership, sustainable growth, and courageous decision-making.
Discover why being "big and brave" isn't about following the crowd– it's about having the confidence to chart your own path while staying true to your vision!
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Did you know that your pet business could be missing out on thousands in tax benefits while also giving back to your community or your favorite cause?! (A win-win!)
This episode is a game changer and might open your eyes to a non-profit venture that makes sense for your pet business! Candace sits down with Dr. Orazie Cook, founder of Paws on Purpose, a business that helps pet businesses transform their charitable giving into structured nonprofit arms.
From pet food pantries to domestic violence support programs, you'll see how leading pet businesses are making a bigger impact while gaining significant financial benefits.
In this episode, you'll learn more about:
🥰 Why and how to establish a nonprofit arm for your pet business.
🥰 The tax advantages of structured charitable giving.
🥰 Creative ways pet businesses can integrate giving into their existing operations.
🥰 Real life examples of unique and successful pet business nonprofits.
🥰 Step-by-step guidance for getting started!
Plus, a special announcement about the new Pet Boss Nation Foundation! (Isn't that name fun to say?!)
Whether you're already giving back or looking to start, this episode will give you practical insights for making your charitable efforts more impactful and sustainable. Learn how to structure your giving in a way that benefits your business, your community, and the pets you serve!
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Want to know how your pet business compares to others in the industry? 🤔
Let's get data-driven thanks to Pets+ Magazine!
In this episode, Candace looks at the results of the Pets+ 2024 Big Survey, where over 500 independent pet retailers and service providers shared their answers to 75 questions that help set benchmarks within the industry. Plus, you'll discover the eight key factors that separate "thrivers" from "strugglers" in today's pet industry!
In this episode, you'll learn:
📈 The performance metrics of successful pet businesses (and some will surprise you!)
📈 Important insights about marketing spend and its impact on your growth.
📈 Why financial literacy might matter more than creativity for business success.
📈 Simple strategies to boost your profit margins right now!
📈 The operational differences between thriving and struggling pet businesses.
📈 Candace's actionable steps to improve your business in five critical areas based on these results.
Whether you feel like you're currently thriving or struggling, this episode will give you an overview of where you might fall in relation to other pet businesses, help you set realistic goals for yourself, and know exactly where to start! Don't miss Candace's expert analysis of what these results mean for your pet business in 2025 and beyond!
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60% of students who experience pets in their classroom go on to have pets in their homes within the first year. The first year! 🤯
This statistic (and more you need to hear!) is brought to you by Melinda Thomas, Executive Director of Pets in the Classroom, an innovative program that is transforming education while cultivating the next generation of pet parents.
Melinda joined Candace on the Pet Boss Podcast to chat about how far the impact of pets can truly go when we introduce them to children at a young age and within a learning environment and what that means for the future of the pet industry.
In this episode, you'll learn:
🐇 How classroom pets improve student engagement and academic performance.
🐹 The profound impact pets have on developing empathy and social skills.
🐠 Ways pet businesses can get involved and support their local schools.
🦎 Heartfelt success stories of how classroom pets have transformed students' lives.
🐕 How Pets in the Classroom and Dogs in the Classroom are expanding their reach and impact even further.
Plus, one of the biggest takeaways is how this program benefits everyone– from students and teachers to local pet businesses and the entire pet industry!
Whether you're a pet business owner looking to make a difference or simply someone who believes in the power of the human-pet bond, this episode will inspire you to get involved in this life-changing initiative.
Let's create the next generation of responsible pet owners together!
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You can make a bigger impact in your community while also growing your pet business (because success and service go hand in paw! 🐾)
In this episode, Candace shares powerful stories of how giving back can transform both your business and your community. From her own personal stories of donating $50,000 to Leader Dogs For The Blind, to innovative giving programs from your fellow pet businesses across the country, you’ll easily see how small acts of kindness can create huge ripples of change.
In this episode, you'll learn:
♥️ Creative ways to incorporate giving into your pet business model, whether that means giving monetary donations, time, or expertise.
♥️ How being charitable in your pet business can boost brand visibility and customer loyalty.
♥️ Practical examples of successful giving programs, like round-up donations to powerful tip-sharing programs.
♥️ The benefits of community involvement for everyone-- you, your team, your business, and those you're making a difference for!
♥️ Simple steps to start your giving journey right NOW!
Plus-- you don't want to miss a special announcement about Pet Boss Nation's new scholarship program for 2025 in this episode! You heard it here first!
Whether you're just starting your giving journey or looking to enhance your current charitable initiatives, this episode is one that'll inspire you. We have a platform to do more good in the world and can make it happen together!
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Did you know that Gen Z is increasingly turning to social media over Google for brand research?!
So, how do we reach those potential customers successfully? 🤔
Enter: UGC, or User Generated Content!
In this episode, Candace chats with Pamela Keniston, founder of Big Paws Marketing, to explore the game-changing potential of User Generated Content (UGC).
And with the growing statistic of social media research that's happening daily, understanding UGC isn't just trendy—it's essential for pet business growth!
In this episode, you'll learn:
🐶 What UGC is and why it generates 10x more engagement than branded content
🐶 How to encourage customers to create content for your pet business (did we mention this can be FREE marketing?!)
🐶 The difference between customer UGC and influencer partnerships.
🐶 Why "social SEO" matters and how to dominate your category's share of voice (and yes, we will define "share of voice!")
🐶 Practical strategies for measuring UGC success beyond traditional metrics.
Marketing is ever-changing, and Pamela has a pulse on where it is, where it’s going, and how you can adapt! Listen in to learn how to transform your social media strategy from basic promotional posts to engaging, community-driven content that resonates with modern pet parents.
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⚠️Warning: This episode may cause unexpected laughter and the sudden urge to double-check your security cameras!
What happens when Candace gathers some of the Pet Boss Mastermind members for an October retreat at her home in Galesburg, Illinois?
Well, they gather 'round the campfire (or in her living room, but just for recording purposes!) and share spine-tingling tales of pet business mishaps, mayhem, and misadventures.
From FBI investigations to creepy crawlies in the dog food, these real-life horror stories will make your blood run COLD.
In this episode, you'll hear:
👻 The case of the cat-napped feline.
🎃 A groomer's brush with the FBI.
👻 The terrifying tale of the lawsuit ambush.
🎃 The mystery of the ‘Beetle’juice-invasion.
👻 All the valuable lessons learned from these haunting experiences... because yes, there is ALWAYS something to be learned!
Join us for this spooky pet business story time, and remember - take these stories to the Pet Boss Crypt! 🧟
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Wondering how Candace was feeling during Q4 when she owned her pet businesses?
You’re about to find out!
Candace has been there– in the thick of the busiest time of the year, watching the days quickly slip by on the calendar without any promotions or events planned, wondering how she’s going to move all that holiday inventory when she can’t seem to remove herself from the day to day tasks inside her business…
And guess what?➡️ Throughout all of her successes (and a few failures!) during Q4, she learned EXACTLY what type of support other business owners in the pet industry need right now.
In this episode, you will:
🎁 Get the inside scoop of Candace’s brain during those overwhelming Q4s when she ran her own pet businesses, and what she did to go from overwhelmed to profitable and less stressed.
🎁 Learn three key things you need to be thinking about right now to make this Q4 your most successful one yet.
🎁 Discover the exact resources you need to plan out the rest of this year efficiently and in manageable tasks.
🎁 And more!
Even though it’s October, and you might be thinking you missed the boat on planning a profitable, smooth Q4, that’s NOT true. No, Pet Boss. There is still time to have a very successful Q4, and your answers to how to get there are waiting inside this episode.
P.S. Don’t forget to utilize the tools you’re about to learn about! Here are the links:
✨ Purchase the Holiday Success Kit at Learn.PetBoss.com/HolidayKit
✨ Join us in the Pet Boss Club by visiting PetBossClub.com
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Ready for a raw and honest conversation about pet business ownership?
That's exactly what this episode is, as Candace sat down with Taylor Gonzalez, owner of Three Tails Parlor and Pantry, and a valued member of multiple Pet Boss Nation programs.
Taylor shows us the emotional rollercoaster that being a pet business owner is, and the crossover between personal life and business. She went from facing personal tragedy to building a thriving pet business, and her story is a testament to the power of community, perseverance, and investing in yourself.
In this episode, you'll hear more about:
🐕How Taylor turned a deeply emotional personal loss into entrepreneurial drive.
🐕 The challenges of scaling a pet business from 1,400 to 5,000 square feet.
🐕 Why you HAVE to face your financial fears in your pet business, and what it looks like on the other side.
🐕 The impact of having a supportive community that understands your struggles as a pet business owner.
🐕 What to do when you're just going through the motions and need to reignite your passion and purpose.
Taylor's story shows that we are all human, and behind the businesses we run, we struggle with real, raw problems... but when we lean on each other, invest in our potential, and put ourselves out there, beautiful things can happen.
Don't miss this emotional and uplifting conversation that will remind you of why you fell in love with the pet industry in the first place!
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Ever wonder what it really takes to launch a pet brand in today's competitive market?
You're in for a treat with this podcast episode where Candace sits down with Jess Berger, founder of Bundle x Joy!
Jess and Candace unpack the hidden challenges (and triumphs!) of building a pet brand from the ground up... especially one so different from what's out there!
In this episode, you'll learn:
🌈 The unexpected hurdles new pet brands face when trying to partner with distributors and retailers.
🌈 The delicate balance of pursuing growth while supporting small, independent retailers.
🌈 Why diversity and representation matter in the pet industry, and how it's shaping new brands like Bundle x Joy.
🌈 Creative ways emerging brands and independent retailers can collaborate for mutual success
🌈 Bundle x Joy's mission to bring more joy, color, and inclusivity to the pet industry while supporting women-led businesses
Jess has over 17 years of experience in the pet industry, and she's building a brand that she didn't see in the market to shape a NEW future-- one that is ethically led, collaborative, AND inclusive.
Find out more about how brands and retailers can collaborate in the spirit of everybody winning together!
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Now that you’re in the right Pet Boss Nation University mindset, it’s time to tie it all together and paint a picture of what a typical semester is going to look like for you!
You can take every course available on your own, but something magical happens when you lean on your “fur”-ternity members. Candace is grabbing the gavel and showing you the power of that community and how it perfectly intersects with the education aspect of PBU!
In part three of orientation, you'll learn:
🐾 The power of peer support in overcoming pet business challenges.
🐾 Inspiring success stories from current PBU members (who you will get to know when you enroll!)
🐾 A sneak peek at some upcoming PBU courses, including "Revenue Revolution" and "Fetch Success."
🐾 The structure of a typical PBU semester, including core classes and electives.
🐾 How PBU's study halls and roundtables foster collaboration and implementation.
Whether you're a pet business newbie or a seasoned pro, this episode will show you why PBU is more than just a learning platform – it's a lifeline for petpreneurs!
Ready to pledge your commitment to pet business growth and find an unbreakable bond with your “fur”-ternity members who truly “get” you?!
Listen in to this last installment of orientation and get ready to find out when you can RUSH enrollment!
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The announcement has been made… so now what?!
Like we said before, PBU is here to STAY📣, so class is back in session!
Professor Candace (who loves a good theme) is here to do a DEEPER dive into what you can expect from Pet Boss University and teach a little Growth Mindset 101.
In part two of orientation, you’ll learn:
📝 The power of a growth mindset and how it can revolutionize your business approach
📝 Real-world success stories from Pet Boss University members
📝 How PBU's core curriculum and elective tracks cater to various pet business niches
📝 The importance of implementing learned strategies for tangible results and how we’ll support you in implementing everything you learn.
📝 Why Pet Boss University is valuable even if you already have a business degree.
📝 And more!
This program is for you no matter what stage of business you’re in… seriously, from newbie freshman to established senior, there is something for YOU. Listen in to find out all the amazing things you’re about to learn and hear from some of your future fellow fur-ternity members!
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Are you ready for the BIG announcement?! Let’s hear a CHEER if you are!
In this game-changing episode, Candace unveils Pet Boss University, a transformative educational program for pet business owners designed with YOU in mind… That’s right, Pet Boss Nation is in the middle of an evolution led by a missing piece we see in the pet industry!
You will learn everything you need to know about that evolution, including how this innovative platform combines core curriculum, elective tracks, and a supportive community to provide the ultimate pet business education experience!
You’ll learn more about:
🏫 The evolution of Pet Boss Nation and why it's time for a major pivot!
🏫 What sets Pet Boss University apart from traditional business education.
🏫 How the program caters to pet professionals at ALL stages of their business journey.
🏫 What’s happening to the Pet Boss Club (spoiler: it’s not going anywhere! But there will be some changes!)
🏫 And so much more! (Including Candace’s cheerleading abilities! 📣)
School is IN session, and you don't want to miss this opportunity to be part of the inaugural class at Pet Boss University!
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We WISH words alone could convey the experience we just had at Camp Pet Boss, and while this episode does a wonderful job of conveying what happened there…
Some of the experience belongs to our Campers. If you know… you know. 😉
If you took our expectations for Camp Pet Boss and multiplied their impact by 100… THAT would be a more accurate depiction.
While it was fresh on her mind, Candace just had to share a behind the scenes of this powerful, unique event!
In this episode, you'll learn:
🔥 How Camp Pet Boss is reigniting passion in pet business owners who had trouble finding their flame after years in business.
🔥 The true power of community and peer support in the pet industry and what that looks like when you bring it together in a one-of-a-kind, unmatched event.
🔥 The creative activities and adventures that fostered unbreakable bonding and personal growth among campers.
🔥 Key takeaways from educational sessions on leadership, scaling, and emotional intelligence
🔥 Why pushing outside your comfort zone can lead to breakthrough moments in your life and your business.
From tearful campfire moments to exhilarating rock climbing challenges, discover why this event has quickly gained a reputation as a MUST-attend for pet professionals. (Plus, find out how to be the first to hear about 2025 dates we’re announcing SOON!)
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September is Self Care Awareness Month, and we’ve been talking about it– in our emails, on our social accounts, in conversations with one another.
And honestly, the topic is resonating. Why?
Because self care is SO important for you as a business owner, but the term itself is so broad and it looks different for everyone, which makes navigating it tricky.
We’re all in different stages of our lives, have different resources, and enjoy different things– so how can we determine the magic self care cure for battling burnout?
The truth is– we can’t. This isn’t magic. This is about taking stock of your life, your priorities, and your burnout red flags and coming up with a self care plan that works for YOU.
In this episode, your host and Pet Boss Nation CEO, Candace, shares:
❤️ Where she is in her life right now, and why she’s been personally thinking about what self care looks like in her stage of life and business.
❤️ Why self care is more than a mug of hot tea or a trip to the spa (although those things can totally be part of your plan too!)
❤️ Six realistic, raw, and helpful tips to help you get ahead of burnout before it’s too late.
❤️ Why self care isn’t just about business– it’s about you as a human who is juggling business, life, family, and other priorities.
❤️ Why finding your people is such a big difference maker in life AND business. 🫶
This episode is a labor of love, and we hope you use it to formulate a self care plan that extends well beyond September! Take care of yourself– and we’re here to help when you need it.
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How is IndiePet helping independent pet stores THRIVE in a market dominated by big box retailers?💪
In this episode, Candace sits down with Todd Dittman, Executive Director of the Independent & Neighborhood Pet Retail Association, to explore how this amazing nonprofit trade association is leveling the playing field for neighborhood pet stores!
With the power of unity, innovative tools, and organizations helping indies compete, we KNOW indie pet businesses can make a lasting mark and take a BIG chunk of a money-making industry.
In this episode, you'll learn:
🐾 What really defines an independent pet retailer, and how IndiePet supports businesses of all sizes.
🐾 The game-changing IndiePet Open Catalog and how it streamlines product management.
🐾 Details about Neighborhood Pet Store Day and its impact on sales (even BIGGER than Black Friday and Small Business Saturday last year!)
🐾 How IndiePet's niche committees are addressing big pet industry challenges.
🐾 The exclusive insights and analytics available to IndiePet members.
🐾 And MORE!
If you’ve been meaning to circle back and take a look at how IndiePet has grown as an organization since its inception, you DON’T want to miss this episode. Learn how joining forces with fellow independents can boost your business and strengthen the entire pet industry ecosystem!
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Ever wonder how a simple change could increase your pet business sales by 7% or more?!
In this behind-the-scenes episode, Candace shares a peek inside a live Q&A session featuring Pet Boss Club member Matt McCord from DogiZone. In her response to Matt’s question, she reveals practical strategies for maximizing impulse buys and refreshing your checkout area.
Whether you run a doggy daycare, grooming salon, or pet retail store, these simple tips could significantly boost your average transaction value, which can make a HUGE difference in your bottom line.
In this episode, you'll learn:
🐾 How high-value items have a place near your register, and how to strategize placement for the most impact.
🐾 The power of seasonal and holiday-themed displays in driving sales.
🐾 Why rotating products regularly is a MUST, especially for businesses with frequent repeat customers.
🐾 Creative bundling ideas to increase your units per transaction.
🐾 Tips for utilizing counter space effectively, even if you have a minimalist setup.
From bully stick bundling promotions to seasonal candles, this episode shows real-world examples and success stories. It also reveals the RESULTS Matt experienced after just a few months of implementation!
Whether you're looking to refresh your front desk area or implement new sales strategies, you'll want to get a peek inside this Q+A for some simple changes you can make TODAY!
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Ever wonder how a broken poop bag could lead to a thriving pet product empire? 💩
In this episode, Candace D'Agnolo sits down with Megan Bolton, founder and chief creative officer of Metro Paws (a Camp Pet Boss sponsor!), to discuss her journey from the fashion industry to creating colorful, eco-friendly pet products. She’ll tell you all about how a simple frustration sparked a 15-year adventure in pet product innovation!
In this episode, you'll learn:
🐾 How Metro Paws transformed from a single poop bag design to a full line of creative and colorful pet products.
🐾 The challenges of manufacturing and dealing with competition in the pet industry.
🐾 Why Metro Paws prioritizes independent retailers over big box stores (and plan to keep it that way!)
🐾 Tips for working successfully with your spouse in business and for managing a team so that everyone can shine.
🐾 The importance of staying true to your brand's moral compass!
Whether you're a pet business owner or an aspiring petpreneur, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to take an idea and RUN with it (all while staying true to yourself and your morals!) Tune in to hear how passion, creativity, and a commitment to quality can turn a simple poop bag idea into a game-changing pet brand. 🙌
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