Pet Boss® Podcast with Candace

Get ready for one of the most emotional and inspiring episodes we've ever recorded! 🥺💪

Paige Thompson's story isn't just about business growth - it's about honoring a mentor's legacy, finding strength in the darkest moments, and proving that sometimes losing everything is exactly what you need to build something extraordinary!

When Paige’s mentor, Terry revealed she was battling terminal cancer, she had a choice: play it safe and work for someone else, or risk everything to honor what Terry had taught her. She chose courage.

Th...

What happens when a seasoned pet sitter loses her business during COVID but refuses to give up on her passion for pets? 

Meet Patty Dill, who pivoted from 18 years of pet sitting to building Doggie Sweets - a pet café, food truck empire, and event powerhouse that's become the "Starbucks for dogs" in New Jersey!

In this episode, Patty shares her incredible journey from losing everything in March 2020 to creating multiple revenue streams and hosting events that sell out WEEKS in advance.

In this ep...

Ever think your pet business experiences are totally unhinged? Think again! 😂😅

In this episode, Candace alongside Amanda from the Pet Boss Nation team dive headfirst into the wildest, most outrageous stories from pet business owners across the country. 

We received DOZENS of story submissions from our amazing Pet Boss Nation community, and honestly? They're so good we couldn't keep them to ourselves. Plus, one lucky story contributor is walking away with a Pet Boss prize pack!

In this episode, you'll hear wild stories about:

🐕...

Ready to peek behind the curtain of some serious brand magic? 🎨✨

This episode of our Behind Closed Doors series takes you deep into the psychology and strategy behind creating the Dante & Dory's Pet Emporium brand – and trust us, it's SO much more than just picking pretty colors!

I'm joined by the incredible J. Nichole Smith, the brand architect behind iconic pet industry names like Dog Is Good, P.L.A.Y., and many more! With nearly 20 years building feel-good brands, Nic is an expert in the art of joy and the...

We're almost halfway through 2025... how are your sales looking? 👀

In this episode, Candace delivers 30 powerful money-making ideas in just 30 minutes – the perfect shot of inspiration for any pet business feeling a mid-year slump! Whether you're experiencing decision fatigue, feeling sales stagnation, or just need fresh ideas to supercharge your profits, this rapid-fire session is packed with actionable strategies you can implement NOW.

In this profit-packed episode, you’ll learn: 

💼 Seasonal product bundles, clearance strategies, and loyalty program ideas to help retailers move more inventory

✂️ Pr...

Want your pet business to stand out from the big box stores? 🏆

In this episode, Candace welcomes Kristen Hawkins, owner of "Pup" (a super neat dog boutique) in Carl Junction, Missouri - and a Pet Boss Nation University scholarship recipient who's crushing it with her “snarky and silly” branding!

In this branding masterclass, you'll discover: 

🏠 How intentional branding helped Kristen hit her ENTIRE day's sales goal in just one hour during her Fifth Saturday promotion

🎨 The specific color palette and design strategy that makes customers instantly recognize Pup's marketing (even when scrolling quic...

The tariff situation is changing rapidly, and it's already affecting your pet business - whether you realize it or not! 📊

In this episode, Candace breaks her silence on this complex topic to give you the straight facts about what's happening with tariffs, how they impact the pet industry specifically, and most importantly - what YOU can do about it right now.

You'll learn: 

💼 What tariffs actually are and who REALLY pays them (hint: it's not other countries!) 

💼 The current status of tariffs 

💼 How pet foods, accessories, toys, and even veterinary supp...

Tired of having to micromanage or do it all yourself because your team "just doesn't get it"? 🙄

In this special "Behind Closed Doors" episode about Dante & Dory's, Candace pulls back the curtain on what it REALLY takes to build a team that's as excited about your business as you are!

In this revealing episode, you'll learn: 

👥 Why team development starts BEFORE your business even opens its doors 

👥 The complete employee lifecycle and where most businesses drop the ball 

👥 How proper training can increase employee sales...

"Where ARE all the good employees?!" 🧐

If you've ever asked yourself this question (especially lately), this episode of the Pet Boss Podcast is exactly what you need! Candace welcomes Joe Latona of Walker Scout, a specialized recruiter who focuses exclusively on the pet industry.

After 11 years of experience in the pet care world (where he grew a team from 5 to 45 employees🙌🏻), Joe has cracked the code on finding amazing talent in today's challenging labor market.

The good news? Great employees ARE out there – you just need t...

Candace just returned from Global Pet Expo 2025 in Orlando and this episode is a full insider breakdown of the experience! 🌴

After attending over 15 shows over her 22-year career, Candace calls this one of her absolute FAVORITE Global Pet Expos ever - but acknowledges the mixed reviews coming from other attendees. 

In this episode, you'll hear: 

🔍 Why some attendees felt disappointed about a particular presence on the show floor (and what this trend means for retailers) 

🔍 The truth about "no innovation" complaints and why your perspective completely c...

Getting a bank loan for your pet business doesn't have to feel like solving a mystery! 💰

In this episode, Candace brings in Jacqueline Pait, a specialized lender from Live Oak Bank who works with pet care businesses nationwide.

Unlike traditional banks that might put your pet business in the wrong "box," Jacqueline reveals what REALLY happens behind those imposing bank doors and how to position yourself for funding success.

You'll discover: 

💵 The crucial differences between SBA loans and conventional financing (and why one mig...

Candace welcomes a retail LEGEND on this episode of the Pet Boss Podcast! 🙌

Bob Negen of WhizBang! Retail Training has decades of experience helping thousands of retailers succeed. Today, he's sharing the exact formula for not just surviving but THRIVING (and growing your business strength!) when customers seem scarce. 

Here's some of what you'll learn in this episode:

🌟 The four P's mindset framework that will change how you respond to business challenges

🌟 Why focusing obsessively on sales numbers can sabotage your emotional well-being (and what to keep an...

What’s a business plan, and do you need one?! 

No matter what stage of business you’re in, if you don’t have a concrete business plan mapped out, let’s get to work! 💪

Candace recently got back into business planning mode to secure funding for her newest venture– Dante & Dory’s, a pet retail destination opening soon in Galesburg, IL!

This podcast series, Behind Closed Doors: Building a Pet Destination, takes you behind the scenes of EVERY step of Candace’s journey. In this update, sh...

Ever wonder how successful pet stores manage all those loyalty programs and manufacturer deals without completely losing their minds? 

This episode will show you how! Astro Loyalty offers a tech solution that's transforming this process for retailers and getting better and stronger with each passing year! 

Candace sat down to chat with Kat Carbonaro, Marketing Director at Astro Loyalty, and got a full insider's look at the platform that's helping independent pet retailers compete with the big boxes (and generating over $1.5 BILLION in sales in 2024 alone! Yes, you read th...

Imagine showing up to your grooming job one day only to be met by the landlord of the building telling you to get out... 

That’s what happened to our guest on this episode of the Pet Boss Podcast. But don’t worry! Karissa Surprenant, owner of Dtails Pet Grooming and Nutrition, took an uncertain moment and turned it into a BIG opportunity for herself! 

And now? 

She's the powerhouse entrepreneur who turned one single grooming salon into a multi-location operation with grooming, retail, AND mob...

Who's escaping to sunny Orlando in a few weeks?! ☀️

Yup, the pet industry's biggest party is just around the corner, and Candace and the team can't wait to hang with you at Global Pet Expo 2025 (March 26-28!)

This episode is dedicated to all things Global! From making the most of your experience to where to find CANDACE'S BIRTHDAY PARTY on the show floor! 🥳

You'll learn:

🐾 Why going to a pet industry trade show is a MUST for your growth and inspiration

🐾 Where...

The Pet Boss Podcast's first-ever live virtual audience recording?! Yes, please!

In this milestone celebration of 100,000 downloads, Candace brought together a room full of passionate pet professionals to reflect on our latest podcast series, "Fall in Love with Your Pet Business." Retailers, groomers, pet sitters, daycare owners... there was a whole mix of pet business owners in the room to participate and rekindle their spark with their business!  

In this fun, special episode, you'll hear: 

🎙️How to identify and nurture your business's unique "love language"

🎙️Real, vulnera...

Are you ready for the AI revolution? 

Spoiler: IT'S HERE! 

The reality is if you're ignoring AI completely, you can get really behind in a world that is changing FAST.

In this episode of the Pet Boss Podcast, special guest and Pet Boss team member, Jolanta Smulski, breaks down how artificial intelligence is transforming the pet industry and why business owners can't afford to ignore this technology any more!

You'll learn: 

🤖How AI can help you save time a...

Ready for the comeback of the YEAR?!

We're talking about Candace's comeback to the pet industry RETAIL WORLD!

Yup, but this isn't just another pet store opening–  it's SO much more, and we have all the juicy details ready to share! 

In this brand new monthly series, Candace will be dropping episode updates to take you behind the scenes of her building a dreamy pet destination from the ground UP. 

You're going to peek behind the curtain to watch an ex...

Happy LOVE month! 💖

This February, join Candace for a special 5-part series designed to help you rekindle your spark with your pet business! 

Whether you're feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or just need a fresh perspective, this series will help you see your business in a whole new light. Episodes will be released daily from February 2-6, 2025:

Episode 1 on February 2: What's Your Business's Love Language? 

Just like relationships, every business speaks its own love language! Discover how to identify and nurture your business's unique needs...

Happy LOVE month! 💖

This February, join Candace for a special 5-part series designed to help you rekindle your spark with your pet business! 

Whether you're feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or just need a fresh perspective, this series will help you see your business in a whole new light. Episodes will be released daily from February 2-6, 2025:

Episode 1 on February 2: What's Your Business's Love Language? 

Just like relationships, every business speaks its own love language! Discover how to identify and nurture your business's unique needs...

Happy LOVE month! 💖

This February, join Candace for a special 5-part series designed to help you rekindle your spark with your pet business! 

Whether you're feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or just need a fresh perspective, this series will help you see your business in a whole new light. Episodes will be released daily from February 2-6, 2025:

Episode 1 on February 2: What's Your Business's Love Language? 

Just like relationships, every business speaks its own love language! Discover how to identify and nurture your business's unique needs...

Happy LOVE month! 💖

This February, join Candace for a special 5-part series designed to help you rekindle your spark with your pet business! 

Whether you're feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or just need a fresh perspective, this series will help you see your business in a whole new light. Episodes will be released daily from February 2-6, 2025:

Episode 1 on February 2: What's Your Business's Love Language? 

Just like relationships, every business speaks its own love language! Discover how to identify and nurture your business's unique needs...

Happy LOVE month! 💖

This February, join Candace for a special 5-part series designed to help you rekindle your spark with your pet business! 

Whether you're feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, or just need a fresh perspective, this series will help you see your business in a whole new light. Episodes will be released daily from February 2-6, 2025:

Episode 1 on February 2: What's Your Business's Love Language? 

Just like relationships, every business speaks its own love language! Discover how to identify and nurture your business's unique needs...

Want to see how far a "watch me do this" attitude can take you?

When everyone told Pet Boss Nation University member Alina McCue that she should go for her idea of opening a pet retail store in Missoula, Montana, she took action– even without a business background. 

Now, as the owner of Toiffer Pet Outfitter, she's transformed her passion for sustainability and pets into a thriving two-location business! 

In this episode, she joins Candace for an inspiring conversation about overcoming self-doubt, building a succ...

Is your pet business’ social media presence accidentally sending the wrong message to potential customers? 

In this episode, Candace chats with the Pet Boss Nation team social media guru, Amanda Nelson, about why 2025 is the year to turn your social media into a customer MAGNET for your pet business. 🧲

And, 🚨SPOILER ALERT: It's not just about posting cute pet pics anymore!

In this episode, you'll learn: 

📲 The Instagram profile must-haves that most pet businesses are missing (and why they're costing you customers!)

📲 How to...

We are pulling out ALL the stops to help you thrive in 2025– including bringing you Pet Boss Nation’s newest Industry Insights and Optimization Expert, Lynn Switanowski of Pet Retail Helper! 🎉

Yup, Lynn is bringing her 17+ years of pet industry brilliance straight to YOU– our Pet Boss Nation community. First, here on this podcast episode… and then directly in our program Profit Clinics and beyond!

Plain and simple, Lynn has the knowledge to connect all the moving parts of your pet business to make you more MONEY. And since we’re SERIO...

Pop those champagne bottles (or a new bag of treats for your pup!) because we're kicking off Season 4 of the Pet Boss Podcast with some exciting news AND a new year mantra!

1. We're about to hit 100,000 downloads, and 

2. We are ready to help you THRIVE in 25! 

(Shoutout to Heather from Tails of Hawaii for this amazing motto!)

Here's what you'll learn in this episode that will make sure this is your most amazing year yet: 

🍾 Why you need to say goodby...

Can you believe we're wrapping up another year? 🤯

In this special end-of-year episode, Candace is getting real with you about what 2024 looked like for Pet Boss Nation. 

There were wins, there were challenges, and yes– there were even moments where we had to pivot. Because let's face it– whether you're eight years in like us or just getting started in business, some years are building years, and that's exactly what they need to be!

In this episode, you'll hear:

🍾 The honest scoop about our 2...

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 withou...

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...

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 t...

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 le...

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...

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...

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 w...

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! 

<...

⚠️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. <...

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 failu...

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 y...