Pet Sitter Confessional

717: Building a Nonprofit From Grief, Love, and Service with Janelle Vargas

What happens to a family's pets when cancer treatments consume their time, energy, and finances? Janelle Vargas joins Collin to share how losing her mother, Wilma, inspired her to create Wilma's Wags, a nonprofit providing pet food and pet-care assistance to families affected by cancer. She explains how the organization supports patients and caregivers, develops community partnerships, and delivers practical help directly to families. Janelle also discusses the realities of starting a nonprofit, raising funds, documenting assistance, and building a mission that can grow sustainably. Janelle's story is a reminder that your work serves people as much as it serves pets and that pain can become a powerful source of purpose. Main topics: Supporting Families Battling Cancer Turning Grief Into Purpose Starting a Pet Nonprofit Building Community Business Partnerships Providing Practical Pet Assistance Main takeaway: "You're turning something so painful that is unimaginable, but you're giving it a new life. You're turning it into a purpose." After losing her mother, Wilma, to cancer, Janelle Vargas knew she wanted to create something that would support other families facing the same overwhelming journey. Wilma's Wags now provides pet food and pet-care assistance to cancer patients and caregivers who may be spending long days at hospitals, managing treatment expenses, or struggling to meet their pets' needs. Her story is an important reminder that the entire family is affected by cancer—including the animals who depend on them. It also shows how you can use your experience, relationships, and resources to meet needs that might otherwise go unnoticed. Pain does not disappear when we give it purpose, but it can become the beginning of something that brings comfort, dignity, and hope to others. About our guest: Janelle Vargas is the founder of Wilma's Wags, a nonprofit providing pet food and pet-care assistance to families affected by cancer. She is also the owner of Pup and Away Premium Dog Services in Palm Beach County, Florida. Janelle created Wilma's Wags in memory of her mother, Wilma, after experiencing firsthand the challenges of caring for a loved one while also managing the needs of a pet at home. Through community partnerships, fundraising events, and direct family assistance, she is working to create a nationwide support network for cancer patients and caregivers. Links: https://www.instagram.com/wilmaswags/ https://bio.site/wilmawags wilmaswags@gmail.com Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months

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716: Before You Spend Another Dollar on Marketing, Calculate This!

1w ago00:36:14Tap to summarize

Have you ever wondered whether a marketing expense is actually worth the money? In this episode, we explore three financial metrics every pet care business owner should understand before making decisions: client lifetime value, profit margin, and cost per visit. We discuss how these numbers remove guesswork from marketing, pricing, hiring, and growth decisions. We also explain how operational efficiency directly impacts profitability and long-term sustainability. By the end, we encourage you to calculate just one of these metrics so you can begin making more confident, data-driven decisions in your business. Main topics: Calculating client lifetime value Understanding profit margin percentages Measuring cost per visit Smarter marketing investment decisions Improving operational efficiency Main takeaway: "If you're not profitable at one visit, you won't be profitable at a thousand visits." Growth doesn't solve broken systems—it amplifies them. Before chasing more clients, more employees, or more marketing, make sure you understand what each visit actually costs your business. When you know your numbers, you stop guessing and start making decisions that build a business capable of serving clients, supporting your team, and lasting for years. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Your peace of mind is part of great pet care. Pet Sitters Associates provides the insurance you need to get the work done. Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com and use the code 'confessional' for $10 off today! Using Meta ads is hard, www.petcaregrowth.com makes it easy. Use PSC15 for 15% off the course!

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715: Starting Over and Growing Stronger with Meagan Cervini

2w ago00:52:18Tap to summarize

What happens when an unexpected opportunity takes you across the world—and then brings you back again? Meagan Cervini shares her journey from managing dog daycares in Canada to helping launch a facility in Dubai, and ultimately building her own business back home. She reflects on the lessons learned from different work environments and how they shaped her approach to client care and team building. Through challenges, self-doubt, and growth, Meagan developed a business rooted in relationships and trust. This episode highlights the power of experience, resilience, and doing things your own way. Main topics: International pet care experience Transitioning into business ownership Building strong client relationships Overcoming fear and self-doubt Team growth and hiring challenges Main takeaway: "I'm allowed to be scared, but I'm not going to let that fear take over my decisions." Starting something new in your business will always come with fear. The question isn't whether you feel it—it's what you do with it.Meagan Cervini shared something powerful: you're allowed to be scared. That feeling doesn't mean you're making the wrong decision—it means you're stepping into something that matters. The key is not letting that fear control your next move. Growth in pet care (and in life) often looks like moving forward even when you're unsure. Every new client, new hire, or new opportunity comes with uncertainty. But those are also the moments that shape your business the most. You don't need to eliminate fear—you just need to lead through it. About our guest: Meagan Cervini is the owner of Meagan's Paw Squad, a dog walking and pet sitting company based in Ontario, Canada. With over 16 years of experience in the pet care industry, she has worked in boarding facilities, managed dog daycares, and even helped launch a pet care facility in Dubai. Meagan brings a relationship-focused approach to her business, prioritizing communication, trust, and personalized care. She continues to grow her team while maintaining a strong connection with both clients and their pets. Links: https://meaganspawsquad.com https://www.instagram.com/meaganspawsquad/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553555017851 Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Sitters International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc

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714: Leading Beyond Your Default

2w ago00:31:52Tap to summarize

What kind of leader does your business need from you right now? In this episode, we build on episode 710 and talk about why self-awareness is only the starting line. We explore how each leadership style has strengths, stress responses, and blind spots that can either help or hurt our teams. We also discuss why great leaders learn to borrow from other styles without abandoning who they are. Ultimately, we remind pet sitters that leadership growth is about becoming the version their business needs in each season. Main topics: Growing beyond self-awareness Leadership under stress Practicing opposite strengths Building leadership systems Adapting as businesses grow Main takeaway: "The best leaders aren't locked into one style, they're adaptable." Knowing your leadership style is helpful, but it is not the finish line. Every style has strengths, but every style also has blind spots that show up most clearly under stress. As pet care business owners, we have to learn when to lean into our strengths and when to borrow from another style. Sometimes your business needs vision, sometimes it needs systems, sometimes it needs accountability, and sometimes it needs encouragement. Leadership growth is learning to become the version your business needs right now. Links: Episode 710: https://www.petsitterconfessional.com/episodes/710 Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional Pet Perennials Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days

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713: Leadership, Legacy, and the Next Chapter of PSI with Adam & Rachel Foster

3w ago00:49:26Tap to summarize

What happens when the leadership of one of the pet care industry's most influential organizations changes hands? In this episode, Collin sits down with Adam and Rachel Foster, the new owners of Pet Sitters International, to discuss their backgrounds in technology, entrepreneurship, and pet care. They explore how technology is reshaping the industry, why relationships remain at the heart of professional pet sitting, and the challenges of competing in an increasingly app-driven marketplace. The conversation also dives into succession planning, the future of independent pet care businesses, and the importance of preserving industry standards. Adam and Rachel share their vision for honoring PSI's legacy while helping it evolve for the next generation of pet care professionals. Main topics: Technology and pet care Independent business advantages PSI leadership transition Industry growth and maturity Succession planning strategies Main takeaway: "I think the independent business owners are the ones who are going to win." That's a bold statement in an industry filled with apps, automation, and growing competition. But Adam and Rachel Foster, the new owners of PSI, believe that what separates independent pet care businesses isn't technology—it's trust, relationships, and genuine expertise. While apps can make booking convenient, they can't replace the peace of mind that comes from knowing a professional is caring for your pet. As the pet care industry continues to mature, the businesses that invest in professionalism, education, and exceptional client relationships will be well positioned for the future. About our guests: Adam and Rachel Foster are the new owners of Pet Sitters International (PSI), the world's largest educational association for professional pet sitters. Adam brings extensive experience in customer success, business operations, and entrepreneurship through acquisition, while Rachel has a background in software development, project management, and pet technology. Together, they combine expertise in technology, leadership, and small business growth with a shared passion for pets and professional pet care. Their goal is to honor PSI's legacy while helping prepare the organization and its members for the future. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Critter to turn insights into action. Use 'PSC20' for 20% off your first three months

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712: What Is Your Business Telling You?

3w ago00:39:58Tap to summarize

What if the better mid-year question is not "Am I on track?" but "What is my business telling me?" In this episode, we look at the first half of 2026 as a source of real feedback from our calendar, clients, team, energy, systems, and stress points. We talk about what growth exposes, what we may still be tolerating, and why not every profitable part of the business is actually healthy. We also reflect on what is working, what no longer fits, and what kind of owner the second half of the year requires us to become. This is an invitation to finish the year with more clarity, alignment, and honesty. Main topics: Mid-year business reflection What growth exposes Boundaries and tolerations Simplifying what no longer fits Leading the second half Main takeaway: "What we tolerate becomes the culture of our business." That applies whether you have a team of employees or you are still operating solo. The late-night texts, the unclear policies, the difficult clients, the incomplete reports, and the constant exceptions all teach people what is normal in your business. A mid-year review is not just about revenue or goals; it is about asking what the first half of the year has revealed. What are you still carrying that no longer fits? The business you have in December is shaped by what you choose to address today. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional Pet Perennials Visit: https://petperennials.com/pages/register-for-a-business-account Code: 'PSC' when registering for a $2 off coupon on any purchases in the 1st 90 days

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711: Building Trust with Dogs Who Need Space with Susan Aceti

4w ago00:58:43Tap to summarize

What does it take to care well for dogs who are fearful, reactive, or slow to trust new people? In this episode, Collin talks with Susan Aceti, owner of Challenging Dogs Pet Care, about building a thoughtful, patient process for dogs who need more than a standard meet and greet. Susan shares how her own dog Molly shaped her approach to empathy, client communication, and practical behavior support. They discuss the importance of going slowly, reading body language, using safety tools, and creating predictability for both dogs and staff. This conversation is a reminder that challenging dogs are not problems to conquer, but individuals to understand. Main topics: Caring for reactive dogs Going slow with trust Client shame and empathy Safety tools and predictability Team training for consistency Main takeaway: "Go slow. And if you think you're going too slow, go even slower." That simple reminder from Susan Aceti is at the heart of working with challenging dogs. In pet care, it can be tempting to rush trust, push for progress, or make petting the goal. But for fearful, reactive, or anxious dogs, success often looks like peaceful coexistence, predictability, and small steps forward. Susan reminds us that our job is not to force a relationship, but to create the conditions where safety and trust can grow. When we slow down, we give the dog, the client, and ourselves the best chance to succeed. About our guest: Susan Aceti is the owner of Challenging Dogs Pet Care. Her own challenging dog, Molly, was Susan's most profound teacher for 15 years in how to care for a dog with behavior challenges. After Molly died, Susan spent four years on Rover providing services primarily for other anxious, stressed dogs. She founded Challenging Dogs in 2021 to expand the pet care capacity in the Baltimore/DC area for dogs with behavior challenges. Susan has an instructional design background that strongly influences the materials she has developed to provide training to other pet sitters around the country. Her approach recognizes the experience and skill all pet sitters bring and how to learn in a collaborative, respectful way. Links: Her email: saceti@challengingdogs.com Her course: https://www.challengingdogs.com/learning Her website: https://www.challengingdogs.com Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Pet Sitters International- Visit https://www.petsit.com/psc

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710: What's Your Leadership Style?

4w ago00:26:28Tap to summarize

What kind of leader is your pet care business creating you to become? In this episode, we talk through five common leadership styles: the visionary, the operator, the servant leader, the coach, and the commander. We explore how each style shows up for solo sitters, team owners, clients, and employees. We also look at the strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots that come with each approach. As our businesses grow, we have to ask whether the style that helped us start is still the style we need moving forward. Main topics: Leading yourself first Visionary leadership strengths Systems versus people Boundaries and burnout Adapting leadership styles Main takeaway: "The challenge is that most business owners continue using the same leadership style that helped them start the business, even when the business now needs something different." That line's hard to hear, because what helped us survive the early days may not be enough to sustain the next stage. As a solo sitter, our leadership might look like discipline, boundaries, and client communication. As our business grows, leadership starts to include culture, accountability, delegation, and developing other people. The goal is not to label one style as good or bad, but to understand our strengths and our blind spots. Our business may need a different version of our leadership than it did a year ago. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional

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709: Are You Prepared for the Emotional Weight of Pet Care with Jen Latter

Jun 1700:53:19Tap to summarize

What does it truly mean to care for pets at their most vulnerable stages of life? In this episode, we talk with Jen Latter, owner of Nanna Jens Services, about her journey from nursing into holistic pet care and how that shapes her approach today. We explore the emotional labor involved in working with senior, disabled, and end-of-life pets, and why boundaries are essential in this deeply personal work. We also discuss how trust is built through consistency, communication, and professionalism. This conversation will challenge you to think more deeply about the responsibility and impact of the care you provide. Main topics: Emotional labor in pet care Caring for senior and disabled pets Building trust through consistency Setting professional boundaries clearly Holistic pet care and Reiki Main takeaway: "Boundaries are essential, especially when working in clients' homes." Boundaries are not a barrier to great service—they're what make great service possible. In pet care, we're invited into people's homes, their routines, and their most vulnerable moments. Without clear boundaries, it's easy for expectations to blur and for burnout to follow. But when you clearly define what you do—and what you don't—you create stability. You protect your energy. And you give your clients confidence in the care you provide. Boundaries don't push clients away. They build trust, clarity, and professionalism. About our guest: Jen Latter is the founder of Nanna Jen Services, an award-recognized holistic in-home pet care business based in Queensland, Australia. With over 50 years of experience caring for animals and a background in nursing, she specializes in senior, disabled, and anxious pets. Jen integrates holistic practices such as animal Reiki and massage into her services to promote calm and well-being. As a solo operator, she is dedicated to providing consistent, one-on-one care that builds deep trust with both pets and their families. Links: Website: www.nannajensservices.com.au Facebook: https://facebook.com/Nannajsservices Instagram: @nannajensservices TikTok: @nannajensservices Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Time to Pet Visit: https://timetopet.com/confessional Code: 50% off first 3 months Critter turns insights into action. Use 'PSC20' for 20% off your first three months

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708: You Get What You Pay For

Jun 1500:20:43Tap to summarize

What happens when we tell clients not to choose a pet sitter based solely on price, but then make every business decision based on cost ourselves? In this episode, we explore the disconnect between the advice we give clients and the choices we make as business owners. We discuss the hidden costs of free software, delayed hiring, skipped education, and avoiding professional help. We share the investments that transformed our own business, from software and certifications to coaching and conferences. We also examine the difference between being frugal and being cheap, and why strategic investments often create the biggest returns. Main topics: Hidden costs of cheap decisions Software and systems investments Outsourcing and hiring support Education coaching and growth Frugal versus cheap mindset Main takeaway: "If you truly believe that your clients get what they pay for, then you have to accept that your business gets what you pay for too." We're quick to explain why professional care costs more than the cheapest option. We talk about training, insurance, reliability, backup plans, and professionalism. But are we holding ourselves to that same standard? Too often we delay hiring help, avoid upgrading software, skip education, or put off investments that could make our businesses stronger because we're focused only on the price tag. The real question isn't "How much does it cost?" It's "What is it costing me not to do it?" Sometimes the most expensive decision is refusing to invest in the tools, systems, and expertise that could move your business forward. Links: Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: petsitterconfessional@gmail.com Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters Pet Sitters Associates Visit: https://www.petsitllc.com Code: Confessional

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All episodes

717: Building a Nonprofit From Grief, Love, and Service with Janelle Vargas

716: Before You Spend Another Dollar on Marketing, Calculate This!

715: Starting Over and Growing Stronger with Meagan Cervini

714: Leading Beyond Your Default

713: Leadership, Legacy, and the Next Chapter of PSI with Adam & Rachel Foster

712: What Is Your Business Telling You?

711: Building Trust with Dogs Who Need Space with Susan Aceti

710: What's Your Leadership Style?

709: Are You Prepared for the Emotional Weight of Pet Care with Jen Latter

708: You Get What You Pay For