Episodes

  • Pet Sitter Confessional with Collin Funkhouser

    Pet Sitter Confessional with Collin Funkhouser
    Nov 20 2024
    In this episode, Jo & Vicky are joined by Collin Funkhouser from Pet Sitter Confessional. He and his wife run a pet-sitting and dog-walking company which employs 13 people, while homeschooling their kids. They also run a podcast and socials that help dog professionals across the globe to share their tips, experiences, and stories. During the discussion, Collin touches on everything you need to know to establish and grow a dog business. But he goes into depth when it comes to deciding when to hire your first employee, finding the right people, training them, and nurturing their talents. He also explains how to create a company culture that ensures that your service continues to improve, and your business can grow without you being there every minute of the day. KEY TAKEAWAYS If your business is seasonal smooth out the troughs by offering other services. Let your business partner take control of the things you are not good at. If you work with your life partner, don´t talk about the business during family time. Hire good help as soon as you can. It makes your business resilient. Hiring employees rather than relying on freelancers enables you to train them and keep standards high. Hire people who are confident in their abilities yet humble enough to ask questions. Put in place the right processes and continually improve them. In a competitive market niching down works. Every dog owner has a different lifestyle, so the dog care each one needs is different. Every time something goes wrong ask – what could I have done differently? Your marketing language has a significant impact on whether the service you provide looks like good value for money. Use video to connect with your client and show them how happy you make their pet. Providing the owner gives permission it is also great for marketing. Remember that taking care of someone´s pet well makes a huge positive difference in their life. Put in place boundaries and stick to them e.g. not working on your kid´s birthdays. You are not alone, join an online dog business group to find support and understanding. BEST MOMENTS “Everybody's better when we're sharing and telling our own stories.” “To be clear is to be kind…we want our employees to know exactly what it means to have done an amazing job.” “Soft skills are the most important thing in the success or failure of people in your business.” “We´re still learning.” “Downtime takes practice because we're small business owners we're wired to …. get out there and conquer.” EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.petsitterconfessional.com https://www.facebook.com/petsitterconfessional https://www.facebook.com/groups/412597292686603 https://www.instagram.com/petsitterconfessional SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/ ABOUT THE HOSTS Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organisations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens.
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    1 hr and 16 mins
  • Feel The Fear

    Feel The Fear
    Nov 13 2024

    In this episode, Vicky and Jo delve into the complexities of fear, particularly in relation to personal and business growth. They discuss how fears are often learned from past experiences and societal conditioning, using examples from their own lives, including attitudes towards money and the pressures of holiday expectations.

    Jo and Vicky also touch on the value of offering free content as a strategic tool for building relationships and trust with potential clients, emphasising that understanding one's worth and the outcomes of services is crucial for success.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Fear often stems from past experiences and learned behaviours rather than being inherently logical.
    • Providing free content can be a strategic way to build trust and rapport with potential clients.
    • Businesses should focus on the outcomes they provide rather than just the time spent on services.
    • There should be a range of pricing options available in any industry, allowing clients to choose what fits their budget.
    • Regular self-reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "It's such an annoying thing that our human brain does, isn't it? Every time you want to do something, you suddenly get slapped in the face with a, nope, can't do that, for no logical reason."

    "If you're fearful of something, there's got to be past experiences that have led to that fear. So you've been through things that have created the fear and created the defence mechanisms around that fear."

    "You can't possibly charge that amount of money. You can't possibly do this. You can't do that. People don't want this. Make dog training affordable. I'm like, what's affordable? What does that mean?"

    "If you try and cater for everybody on a low ticket, you're going to have to work a fair amount of time in exchange for that money."

    "If you allow your brain to take over and be controlled by fear, be controlled by the unknown, be controlled by everybody else's opinion of what you should be doing with your business, nothing is going to change."

    EARLY ACCESS TO JO & VICKY´S BOOK – INCLUDING EXCLUSIVE BONUSES

    Be the first to get your own copy of Let’s Talk Dog Business Strategy: The Dog Trainer's Guide to Ideal Clients, More Money and Freedom before it's out. Plus, get exclusive bonuses! Grab this guide to make your mark on the dog training industry!

    Just, click and enter your details to join the priority list now:

    https://www.inspiredbybooks.co.uk/letstalkdog-businessstrategy

    SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS

    https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness

    https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness

    Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com

    Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/

    ABOUT THE HOSTS

    Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organisations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens.
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    48 mins
  • From Zero or Low Turnover to 6 Figures in Just 8 Months – Learn How from Let´s Talk Dog Business Strategy Book

    From Zero or Low Turnover to 6 Figures in Just 8 Months – Learn How from Let´s Talk Dog Business Strategy Book
    Nov 6 2024
    In this episode, Jo & Vicky announce the launch date for their first book – Let´s Talk Dog Business Strategy - The Dog Trainer´s Guide to Ideal Clients, More Money and Freedom. The only guide you will need to successfully launch and grow any dog business or ramp up the profits of a dog-related company you are already running. Jo & Vicky started generating 6 figures, just 8 months after they applied the strategies and processes they are sharing in their book. This guide teaches you to build a brand, grow a loyal client base and navigate the challenges of running a business in an ever-evolving market. In this episode, Jo & Vicky briefly talk through lead generation, sourcing good customers, creating processes, and leveraging social media to provide you with a taste of what you can expect from their brilliant guide. https://www.inspiredbybooks.co.uk/letstalkdog-businessstrategy KEY TAKEAWAYS · Get on the priority list to secure the free bonuses. · The dog business is always evolving, which means you have to constantly be tweaking and updating your skills. · Waiting for customers to come to you leaves you struggling and missing clients that can add to your bottom line. Lead generation is essential. · Most potential customers do not fully understand how serious the problems they will face in the future are going to be if they do not address behaviour issues in their young dog. You have to educate them, which in turn motivates them to buy. · It is easy to spend a lot of money on ads that don´t work or to fail to turn leads into customers. · Creating watertight processes and following them takes a lot of stress out of running your business. · Finding customers that are a good fit for how you work is essential. BEST MOMENTS “We have poured every ounce of knowledge into this book that worked for us to turn an all-right business, into a business that collectively turned over £150k.” “It's our mission in life to equip all of you dog folk out there with as many skills that are really going to help move the needle along in your business .” “It's worth getting on that priority list for the bonuses.” “I changed the way I delivered my service because I was chasing the money.” EARLY ACCESS TO JO & VICKY´S BOOK – INCLUDING EXCLUSIVE BONUSES Be the first to get your own copy of Let’s Talk Dog Business Strategy: The Dog Trainer's Guide to Ideal Clients, More Money and Freedom before it's out. Plus, get exclusive bonuses! Grab this guide to make your mark on the dog training industry! Just, click and enter your details to join the priority list now: https://www.inspiredbybooks.co.uk/letstalkdog-businessstrategy SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/ ABOUT THE HOSTS Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organisations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens.
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    31 mins
  • Let´s Talk Dog Business Strategy Book Launch – Creating and Running a Highly Profitable Dog Business

    Let´s Talk Dog Business Strategy Book Launch – Creating and Running a Highly Profitable Dog Business
    Oct 30 2024

    Today, Jo & Vicky launch their long-anticipated book - Let´s Talk Dog Business Strategy - The Dog Trainer´s Guide to Ideal Clients, More Money and Freedom. The guide that Jo & Vicky wish they had had when they started their dog businesses. In it, they share everything you need to know to either start a dog business from scratch or turn one you are already running into a far, far more profitable venture.

    Together, Jo & Vicky have a combined 27 years of experience running dog businesses and coaching other entrepreneurs. So, you know that the strategies and advice they share in their book are both practical and effective.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Setting your business up in the right way makes it easier to grow. The foundations you lay matter.
    • Developing the right mindset right is essential. If you don´t the rest won´t work, which is why this is included in their book.
    • When you do not feel safe, you make bad decisions. Having a strategy to follow stops you from feeling lost and desperate.
    • Trying to replicate the business model of a well-established company rarely works. Especially, if you are a startup because you are just not ready to do things that way.
    • Following a business blueprint is important, but you also have to get creative, have fun and do what you want.
    • Many people have self-limiting beliefs about how much money a dog business can make. Using real-world examples Jo & Vicky bust those myths and show you how to make 6 figures.
    • Putting in place services that bring in regular income helps stop the mental burnout and stress that leads to bad decision-making.
    • If you have lost the love for your existing business this book is also for you, it shows you how to change direction, provide a better service and make more money.
    • Understanding modern marketing techniques and investing in the right technology makes it easier to find and retain clients. Jo & Vicky explain how.



    BEST MOMENTS

    “This is basically what I wish I'd had when I started my dog business.”

    “It's your business. It's your life. You create whatever you want to off the back of it.”

    “Really, the whole book is about mindset… if you don't get that bit right, the rest won't work anyway.”



    EARLY ACCESS TO JO & VICKY´S BOOK – INCLUDING EXCLUSIVE BONUSES

    Be the first to get your own copy of Let’s Talk Dog Business Strategy: The Dog Trainer's Guide to Ideal Clients, More Money and Freedom before it's out. Plus, get exclusive bonuses! Grab this guide to make your mark on the dog training industry!

    Just, click and enter your details to join the priority list now: https://www.inspiredbybooks.co.uk/letstalkdog-businessstrategy

    SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS

    https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness

    https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness

    https://www.inspiredbybooks.co.uk/letstalkdog-businessstrategy

    Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com

    Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/


    ABOUT THE HOSTS

    Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organisations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens.
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    38 mins
  • How to Truly Understand What Your Customers Want with Rymel Dmot

    How to Truly Understand What Your Customers Want with Rymel Dmot
    Oct 22 2024

    In this episode, Jo & Vicky are joined by Rymel Dmot an elite business coach who helps entrepreneurs to scale their businesses to £250k+. He also runs The Elite Millionaire Group teaching business owners how to invest and grow that way.

    Rymel shares his journey from being a professional dancer and teaching assistant to becoming a serial entrepreneur and sought-after coach. The advice shared is to the point and tailored to those running dog businesses.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Investing in a business mentor to teach you the right way to run a business is no different to investing in a driving instructor to teach you to drive. Don´t let friends and family put you off.
    • Don´t inadvertently devalue your service. How this can happen and what you can do to avoid this classic mistake is explained during the episode.
    • Discounts are a win for a customer, but if you are doing twice the work, for you it is a loss. Instead, offer arrangements that benefit both parties.
    • In the early stages focus on one or two options. That is how all successful businesses get started.
    • Give customers a choice. Let them decide whether to opt for the cheapest or the more expensive option.
    • Tempt customers by giving them exactly what they need. Provide true value – make hiring you a no-brainer.
    • Do your market research before launching a new service. Rymel explains how.
    • Show customers that you understand their pain e.g., the problem is my dog won´t come when called, the pain is I can´t take him anywhere without worrying he will run away.
    • Humans will do more to get away from pain than they will to experience pleasure. Use that fact to hone your marketing efforts.



    BEST MOMENTS

    “Generating revenue is simply offering a real exchange in value.”

    “Don't panic and worry about affordability …. just create choices.

    “Present the harsh reality of what happens if the problem is not solved.”

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.instagram.com/rymeldmot

    https://www.facebook.com/RymelDmot

    SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS

    https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness

    https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness

    Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com

    Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/

    ABOUT THE HOSTS

    Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organisations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens.
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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Why You Need to Be Prepared to Get Out of Comfort Zone and Learn Business

    Why You Need to Be Prepared to Get Out of Comfort Zone and Learn Business
    Oct 15 2024

    In this episode, Jo & Vicky discuss why getting out of your comfort zone is essential when running a dog business. Why do you need to push yourself to learn how to run a business professionally, start charging what you are worth, invest in your education by getting a mentor, and surround yourself with people who will help you grow?

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Most self-employed people and sole traders have zero business training.
    • Even people who have held senior corporate positions only have a limited understanding of what it takes to run an independent business.
    • Winging it will only take your business so far.
    • Be patient with yourself don´t try something once, and then immediately give up because you think it hasn´t worked.
    • Flitting from one thing to another is a sure way to waste your energy and resources.
    • Always think about whether what you are planning to do will fit in with your long-term bigger picture.
    • There is no need to feel uncomfortable about charging a decent amount for the service you provide. People are coming to you because they can´t do it themselves, they need your expertise.
    • It is not your job to second guess how much someone can afford, you need to set your rate and stick to it unless you are running a promotion.
    • Give value by providing the basics for free.
    • Choosing someone to teach you everything you need to know is far more efficient than trying to learn things piecemeal.

    BEST MOMENTS

    “That job didn't teach me the skills that I needed to be a business owner.”

    “It's a good comparison…. we are like, little reactive dogs.”

    “Business is a journey. The same way as you learning about dog behaviour is a journey"

    SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS

    https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness

    https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness

    Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com

    Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/


    ABOUT THE HOSTS

    Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organisations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens.

    PODCAST DESCRIPTION

    The ultimate hub for dog business enthusiasts!

    Join hosts Jo and Vicky as they unravel the entrepreneurial journey within the canine realm. This podcast delves deep into the business side of owning a dog business, spotlighting inspiring stories of individuals who've seamlessly woven their passion into a profitable lifestyle. Tune in for candid discussions on the human behaviour behind dogs, strategies to attract dream clients, and a behind-the-scenes look at Jo and Vicky's collaborative training ventures. Get ready for client interviews, tales behind the dogs, and insightful perspectives from actual dog owners on what they seek in a trainer. This is your go-to source for navigating the dynamic world where business meets the wagging tails.
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    43 mins
  • Using Passive Income Streams to Maximise Profit with Lisa Johnson

    Using Passive Income Streams to Maximise Profit with Lisa Johnson
    Oct 8 2024

    In this episode, Jo & Vicky are joined by the amazing business strategist Lisa Johnson, to talk about passive income. Lisa helps businesses make much extra income using passive and semi-passive income streams, such as courses, the membership model, and more. Lisa has extensive experience in all aspects of marketing. Over the past few years, Lisa´s own business has generated a turnover of £20 million.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • People buy from people they have something in common with. Be authentic and share who you are.
    • Most markets are saturated or nearly saturated, so to stand out you need to go beyond your primary message of what you do and how you can help customers. You need a secondary message.
    • Your secondary message does not have to relate directly to your business, it could be sharing what you are doing about something you care about e.g. the environment.
    • Don´t fear being canceled, bullied, or not liked. It´s not pleasant, but it happens to everyone and will not stop you from achieving what you want.
    • You must build an email list rather than relying 100% on 3rd party platforms e.g. Instagram.
    • Don´t feel you have to be perfect. Be yourself, flaws, and all.
    • Ignore the gurus, you can be extraordinarily successful without having to be unethical.
    • It doesn´t matter if 95% of people don´t agree with you or like you. The 5% who do will buy from you, which is more than enough.
    • People buy courses that contain information they can get for free because they know they won´t do things unless someone is supporting them in doing it.

    BEST MOMENTS

    “People buy from people that they like.”

    “The only way to live is to show up as if you have already been cancelled.”

    “You can be professional and make mistakes.”

    “The more value you give, the more likely people are going to want your support and work with you.”

    EPISODE RESOURCES

    https://www.instagram.com/lisajohnsonstrategist/p/C3hz2Uks24F

    https://thatstrategyco.com


    SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS

    https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness

    https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness

    Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com

    Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/


    ABOUT THE HOSTS

    Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organisations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens.

    PODCAST DESCRIPTION

    The ultimate hub for dog business enthusiasts!

    Join hosts Jo and Vicky as they unravel the entrepreneurial journey within the canine realm. This podcast delves deep into the business side of owning a dog business, spotlighting inspiring stories of individuals who've seamlessly woven their passion into a profitable lifestyle. Tune in for candid discussions on the human behaviour behind dogs, strategies to attract dream clients, and a behind-the-scenes look at Jo and Vicky's collaborative training ventures. Get ready for client interviews, tales behind the dogs, and insightful perspectives from actual dog owners on what they seek in a trainer. This is your go-to source for navigating the dynamic world where business meets the wagging tails.
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    51 mins
  • Don´t Be Afraid to Promote Yourself with Victoria Stilwell

    Don´t Be Afraid to Promote Yourself with Victoria Stilwell
    Oct 1 2024
    Today, Jo & Vicky are joined by Victoria Stillwell from It´s Me Or The Dog and The Dog Academy, TV fame. She runs an academy to teach people to be dog trainers. Victoria has been a dog trainer and behaviour expert for over 20 years. During this varied and interesting discussion, they end up talking about why money is not a dirty word and how you can be super powerful in your business. They also discuss what those in the industry can do to support each other and improve the industry overall. Victoria also explains, step-by-step, how to create a course that works and keeps clients engaged. KEY TAKEAWAYS Always be authentic and genuine and people will trust you and your business. Don´t be afraid to promote yourself. Celebrate your knowledge, share it, and make sure you are paid what you are worth. Spend time on shaping and growing your business instead of worrying about what others are doing. Find your why, your reason for being in the dog business. It does not have to be big; it could be as simple as I enjoy this work. You have to like people. Dog training is a tough business, and the value of the services provided is underestimated. Don´t be afraid of failure. If you have an idea ask – How am I going to do it? Reach out and collaborate with other dog trainers in your area. Be flexible, explore, and focus on what you are doing in your business rather than what other providers are doing. If you are looking for courses to reinforce what you are teaching clients look into the resources at positively.com. BEST MOMENTS “If you are authentic, it will shine through.” “Dog-centred first then client-centred, but both are really important.” “Every course has got to be a story. It's got to have a beginning and a middle and an end.” “Be proud that you are making money and go out there and do the best you possibly can.” EPISODE RESOURCES https://positively.com https://www.vsdogtrainingacademy.com Socials - @victoriastilwell and @itsmeorthedog SOCIALS AND IMPORTANT LINKS https://www.tiktok.com/@letstalkdogbusiness https://www.youtube.com/@LetsTalkDogBusiness Website www.caninebusinessacademy.com Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/caninebusinessacademycommunity/ ABOUT THE HOSTS Meet Jo and Vicky! They bring a combined 25 years of expertise in the canine industry. Jo, with a background in corporate business, and Vicky, a dedicated advocate for rescue organizations, form an unstoppable team. Beyond the mic, their lives are a whirlwind – managing two successful businesses, pursuing a full-time university degree, and parenting two little ones under four. Each of their homes combined is a lively menagerie, housing five dogs and an abundance of chickens. PODCAST DESCRIPTION The ultimate hub for dog business enthusiasts! Join hosts Jo and Vicky as they unravel the entrepreneurial journey within the canine realm. This podcast delves deep into the business side of owning a dog business, spotlighting inspiring stories of individuals who've seamlessly woven their passion into a profitable lifestyle. Tune in for candid discussions on the human behaviour behind dogs, strategies to attract dream clients, and a behind-the-scenes look at Jo and Vicky's collaborative training ventures. Get ready for client interviews, tales behind the dogs, and insightful perspectives from actual dog owners on what they seek in a trainer. This is your go-to source for navigating the dynamic world where business meets the wagging tails.
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    51 mins