Published by Chenelle Conquest
Welcome to "Pet Industry Mentor," A podcast dedicated to the art and business of pet sitting. Join us as we delve into expert advice, share captivating stories, and explore the ins and outs of running a successful pet sitting venture. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, our podcast offers valuable coaching services and insights to help you thrive. Tune in for engaging discussions on pet care, business strategies, and the joys of working with animals. Perfect for anyone passionate about pet sitting and eager to learn from real-world experiences
Listen on Apple Podcasts13 min
There is a good reason the saying is ‘hire slow fire fast’ The wrong employee can cause financial and emotional strain that can take months to recover. I know because I’ve experienced it more than once If this episode hit home for you, reach out for a chat Instagram: @petindustrymentor www.petindustrymentor.com
15 min
If you've ever said, "I've never needed marketing because all my business comes through word of mouth," this episode is for you. Don't get me wrong, referrals are one of the best compliments your business can receive. They build trust, create loyal clients and are something every business owner should strive for. But are they enough to keep your business growing? In this episode, I'm sharing why relying solely on word of mouth can quietly limit your growth, why being a great business isn't always enough if people can't find you, and the mindset shift that changed the way I look at marketing forever. We'll chat about: • Why word of mouth isn't a business strategy. • What new pet owners actually do when they're looking for a service. • The role Google plays in attracting new clients. • Why visibility matters just as much as reputation. • How referrals and marketing work together, not against each other. • Simple ways to make your business easier to find. Whether you're a groomer, trainer, pet sitter, dog walker, behaviourist or any other pet professional, this episode is a reminder that incredible businesses deserve to be seen. Because your next client can't book you if they don't know you exist.
23 min
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25 min
We spend so much time watching what everyone else is doing that we forget to focus on the one business that actually pays our bills... our own. In this episode, we're talking about the trap of constantly comparing yourself to competitors, getting caught up in industry drama, chasing every trend, and letting other people's decisions distract you from your own goals. Because the truth is, every minute you spend worrying about someone else's business is a minute you're not improving your own. If you've ever found yourself frustrated by what another business is charging, posting or achieving, this episode is the reminder you probably need. Put the blinkers back on, get back to work, and focus on the things that actually move your business forward.
28 min
This weeks episode is going to highlight and explain the differences between the business owner who has the capacity to generate $60,000 in a year vs those exceeding $200,000 The differences might surprise you. You probably think those making over 200 are working 10x as hard as you, or got lucky, or just have figured out the secret. It’s actually none of the above, and allow me to enlighten you. I hope this episode inspires you, resonates with you, and leaves you asking yourselves many questions I would love to work with you and help you get past this 60k (or less) mentality. You can find me on Instagram @petindustrymentor or at www.petindustrymentor.com
39 min
Ever wondered what it's actually like to work with a business mentor? In this episode, I sit down with one of my mentor clients for a completely honest conversation about her experience inside Pet Business Mastery. We chat about where she was before we started working together, the challenges she was facing, the mindset shifts that made the biggest difference, and the practical changes she's made in her business along the way. Rather than hearing it from me, this episode gives you the opportunity to hear directly from someone who's been through the process. We talk about the wins, the moments that felt uncomfortable, the support she received, and why having someone in your corner can completely change the way you approach your business. If you've been wondering whether mentoring is right for you, or you're feeling stuck and unsure of your next move, I hope this conversation gives you a genuine insight into what coaching together looks like. In this episode we cover: - What life and business looked like before mentoring. - The biggest challenges she was facing. - The changes she's made since joining. - Mindset shifts that created momentum. - The value of accountability and support. - Advice for anyone considering investing in themselves. If this episode resonates with you and you've been thinking about getting support in your own pet business, I'd love to have a chat. You can learn more about my mentoring programs or send me a message through my website or social media @petindustrymentor on Instagram or www.petindustrymentor.com If you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate it if you could follow the podcast and leave a review. It helps more pet business owners discover the show and build businesses that support the life they actually want.
16 min
. Underpricing is one of the most common challenges I see across the pet industry, and unfortunately it's also one of the quickest ways to create burnout, stress and financial pressure. In this episode, we're diving into the real cost of charging too little for your services, why being busy doesn't always mean being profitable, and how underpricing impacts everything from your wages and team culture through to your ability to grow, invest and actually enjoy the business you've worked so hard to build. We'll unpack some of the reasons pet business owners stay stuck with outdated pricing, the warning signs that your prices may no longer be serving your business, and how to start looking at pricing through the lens of sustainability rather than fear. Whether you're a groomer, dog walker, trainer, pet sitter, daycare owner or any other pet professional, this is a conversation that could completely change the way you view your numbers. Ready to make some business changing choices? Book a call with me via my Instagram bio @petindustrymentor
12 min
A short and sweet ep on how I moved the salon’s google ranking up in 6 short weeks! Keen for support? My options have now changed Email chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com for more info
40 min
In this episode, I'm joined by dog behaviour specialist and author Sarah Rutten for a fascinating conversation about understanding our dogs beyond the labels we often give them. We dive into the difference between human expectations and a dog's reality, exploring why so many behaviour challenges stem from misunderstandings rather than disobedience. Sarah explains what reactivity really is, why dogs react the way they do, and how owners can better recognise the emotions and experiences driving their dog's behaviour. We also discuss fear-free and force-free training methods, why Sarah is so passionate about educating owners through compassion rather than punishment, and how changing our perspective can dramatically improve our relationship with our dogs. Whether you have a reactive dog, are struggling with behaviour challenges, or simply want to better understand the way your dog experiences the world, this episode is packed with practical insights and valuable takeaways. In this episode we cover: What dog reactivity actually means Common misconceptions about reactive dogs Human expectations versus a dog's reality Understanding the emotions behind behaviour Fear-free and force-free training explained How owners can better support anxious or overwhelmed dogs Building trust and confidence through positive training methods Creating a stronger relationship with your dog through understanding If you've ever found yourself frustrated, confused or worried about your dog's behaviour, this conversation will help you see things from a completely different perspective. https://www.thecanineperspective.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
48 min
The girls from Flying Paws Dog Training are back! I sat down with Pat and Molly once again to talk about what’s been happening in their life since bringing new team members into the business From hesitant to thriving and everything in between, this episode is sure to inspire you and give you confidence when it comes to expanding your business via employees! You can find the girls on Instagram @flyingpawsdogtraining And if you are ready to take the plunge and step it up, book a free call with me via my Instagram bio or website www.petindustrymentor.com @petindustrymentor
50 min
Surely you don’t need insurance if you’re a small, early start up, solo business … right? Tune into this weeks episode the hear about the not so exciting side of pet businesses, but one that is incredibly important and non-negotiable I feel today’s ep will open a lot of minds and eyes and I can’t wait to hear your thoughts Thinking of getting insurance after tuning in? You can get 10% off with https://www.petbusinessinternational.com.au when you use the code petindustrymentor10 And if you’re ready to take business more seriously and turn that chaos into cash - you know where to find me
17 min
This episode is for the business owners who are trying to build something long term while navigating an industry that can feel emotional, reactive and incredibly public online. In this conversation, I talk about why professionalism online matters far more than most people realise, especially in the pet industry where trust is everything. Your social media presence is no longer just “personal”. For many clients, it becomes part of whether they feel safe handing over their animals, their house keys, and their trust.
21 min
Well, so much more has already happened since I recorded this haha I want to share this journey with you because I want to showcase exactly what can happen when you go all in and take risks and trust and back yourself Buying a failing grooming salon wasn’t really on my 2026 bingo card, but I’ve done it and I’m equal parts nervous and excited to show you how I turn it around and the exact steps I take I’ll do a catch up episode in a month and we can compare starting point to 6 weeks in. As a list, so far; - Redid the branding as there was no public relationship with it and it was not a true reflection of the standard of work. It was childish and outdated - Replaced some equipment to support faster work - Started posting daily and interacting with the community (4-5 new clients already in a week) - Decluttered the salon, cleaned it, and painted - open space IS premium - Bought new uniforms - Had the sun scorched front building sign quoted for replacement as it totally cheapens the facade and first impressions - Response time for clients is up over 200% - All abandoned bookings (cancelled) were saved apart from 1 where a dog passed away, taking abandoned bookings down by 34% And so much more 😅😅 It’s been hard and stressful, but as someone that can see the long term payoff I say bring it on
28 min
I was recently lucky enough to inherit a wonderful team of lovely young ladies who work at the grooming salon I purchased I have sat down in this ep and gone over exactly how I handled the initial induction so I can set the tone and standard from day one The more transparent and honest, the easier your staff are to deal with If you’re thinking of hiring, you can reach out to me anytime for a chat or a discovery call! Find the link in my Instagram bio or by going to www.petindustrymentor.com
56 min
Today I sit down with my best friend and ex employee, Amy! You are so scared to hire, but why? You don’t trust, you don’t believe anyone can do the work, you can’t find the right person, you’ve had some bad experiences …. This list goes on. At some stage, refusing the hire IS going to hold you back. If it’s a big business you want, life changing income, and not having to drive yourself into the ground - you need internal support Having great staff can be done, and is constantly done. Hopefully this weeks episode inspires you to trust in that Ready to hire but not sure where to start? Book a free call with me. You can do it via my website or the link in my Instagram bio Instagram: @petindustrymentor Website: www.petindustrymentor.com
23 min
Everyone gets caught in the same loop of ‘to make more money and be more successful I need more clients’, however that is rarely the real issue I’m not sure why everyone believes more clients = more income = problems solved, as usually what it means is more mess more stress and less profit if you can believe it I dive into that exact common scenario in the pet industry and how I fix it Ready to get serious and work together? Book a discovery call https://calendar.app.google/BVfBYiVFC5xVAc7M6 Or head to my socials @petindustrymentor and let’s have a chat
22 min
I sat down and worked through real business problems the same way I do with my clients, in real time. We touched on things like leads not converting, confusing services, undercharging without realising, and the small decisions that quietly hold your business back. Instead of just telling you what to do, I gave a glimpse of how I actually think about these situations so you can start applying it to your own. If you’ve been overthinking or feeling stuck, this will help you see things a bit clearer. www.petindustrymentor.com or my Instagram is @petindustrymentor to get in touch If you want help with your own business, you can book a free call with me and we’ll map out what needs to change. Just a heads up, if you book and don’t show up without notice, you won’t get another chance. I take these calls seriously.
22 min
This episode I really call you out on your BS. So often we procrastinate and convince ourselves the basic generic tasks we have been filling our time with were important so it’s not our fault when stuff doesn’t work Unfortunately, everything comes back to you. Whether it works or not. The choices we make, the effort we put in, the action we are willing to take and remaining accountable and realistic If you’re sick of being stuck, reach out to me - I can help you and get you out of that rut and on your way forward Email me at chenelle@theprofessionalpetsitter.com Or visit my website and book a free call www.petindustrymentor.com
53 min
In this episode I sit down with pet mum and pet influencer Mitali, paw parent to Chiku the Cavoodle. We chat all things from the first special connection to a pet, right through to the challenges of trust that come with trusting a pet professional I questioned Mitali on exactly what is it a pet parent looks for and wants in a service provider and how she can feel supported in knowing she has chosen the right person If you want to know how to keep booked and busy - listen to the pet parents! You can find her on Instagram @chikuthecavoodle If you want to work with me so you can start directly connecting with what pet parents want and how to successfully sell your services to them - you know where to find me
42 min
You know I had my business and love to talk about it, I teach you guys based on the methods I used and things I learnt But do they still work? Do I still know what I’m talking about. Absolutely. If you follow my content you may have clued in that I started a little at home project because I’m so badly missing having more animals around + working alongside pet parents So I had an idea, set it up, launched, first week booked out, and ran a community event and it hasn’t even been 30 days This episode dives into it, I tell you the who/what/when/where/how and have put my money where my mouth is That profile now has 70k views, hundred of followers, a website driving traffic, and I’m becoming publicly known after 3/4 weeks. What I teach WORKS. You also need to apply it 🤍
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