Practical Pet Business

Lorin Grow, Robert Semrow
  • 5.0 (1)
  • PETS & ANIMALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join Lorin and Robert in this Business Edition of Practical Pet Chat, where they dive into the latest trends and issues affecting the pet industry. Whether you’re a retailer, vendor, manufacturer, or simply someone interested in the business side of the pet world, this podcast is for you. In this episode, they discuss the significant shifts that have accelerated recently, including the pressures faced by independent stores. From the challenges of consumer choice and vendor feedback to the evolving roles of independent distributors and stores, the landscape is changing rapidly. They also explore how the shopping experience has shifted with fewer staff, less product knowledge, and increased availability issues. With stores struggling to maintain brand knowledge and staffing levels, consumer trust, relationships, and loyalty are all on the line. Additionally, they highlight the impact of reduced educational offerings that once defined the local pet store experience. Tune in weekly to Practical Pet Chat Business Edition for a focused look at the pet industry from a business perspective.

  1. Practical Pet Business - Episode 38 - The Pet Business Year - Review and Look Ahead

    12/18/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 38 - The Pet Business Year - Review and Look Ahead

    On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take pet business owners through a comprehensive and practical year-end review designed to turn reflection into forward momentum. As the year comes to a close, they break down what to look at across your business—from timelines and key events to sales performance, seasonal trends, and the initiatives that delivered results (or didn’t). They explore the changes that happened over the past year and the changes that still need to happen, helping owners assess what evolved organically and what requires intentional adjustment. The conversation covers vendor relationships, product assortments, pricing, and partnerships, with insight into what to keep, what to refine, and what to reconsider as you plan ahead. A central focus of the episode is your customers: how their needs, expectations, buying behaviors, and feedback shifted throughout the year, what they communicated directly or indirectly, and how those insights should influence your decisions going forward. Lorin and Rob also discuss how external factors—market conditions, industry trends, and operational realities—play into your planning process. The episode wraps with a clear, actionable “quick-start” path for 2026, offering guidance on setting priorities, creating realistic timelines, and aligning your business goals with customer success. It’s a practical, thoughtful roadmap to help pet business owners close the year with clarity, confidence, and a strong foundation for the year ahead.

    20 min
  2. Practical Pet Business - Episode 37 - Tradeshow and Event Planning for 2026

    12/11/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 37 - Tradeshow and Event Planning for 2026

    In this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob tackle one of the most important—and often overlooked—topics for pet professionals as we head into a new year: budgeting and planning for the 2026 pet industry landscape, with a special focus on local events, expos, shows, and community gatherings. As the pet industry continues to grow and evolve, so do the expectations placed on business owners. Events that were once “must-attend” cornerstones have become increasingly expensive, more complex to navigate, and, in many cases, less predictable in the value they provide. Lorin and Rob encourage listeners to take a step back and ask the tough but necessary questions: Am I truly getting enough ROI from the events I attend? Is the financial cost aligned with the opportunities I’m actually receiving? How much time, team bandwidth, and personal energy am I sacrificing—and is it worth it? They break down the hidden costs that pet pros often forget to calculate: staff coverage, travel logistics, preparation hours, inventory management, marketing spend, post-event follow-up, and the emotional toll of constant show cycles. As the industry shifts, the “value” of showing up is no longer as straightforward as it once was. Lorin and Rob also explore a deeper question: loyalty. You reward your customers’ loyalty every day. But are the events, associations, and organizations you support giving you that same loyalty back? Are they helping your business grow, supporting your goals, and acknowledging the commitment you bring year after year? Because at its core, the pet industry is built on relationships—relationships with customers, vendors, community partners, and each other. Yet those relationships are being tested as resources are stretched thinner and expectations continue to climb. The hosts unpack how to evaluate which relationships are truly beneficial, which commitments deserve to be renewed, and which may need to be reconsidered altogether. Whether you're a retailer, service provider, manufacturer, or pet professional carving out your place in the market, this episode gives you the tools to rethink your 2026 strategy with clarity and confidence. All of this—and plenty more strategic insights, tough truths, and practical advice—on this episode of Practical Pet Business.

    20 min
  3. Practical Pet Business - Episode 36 - What Pet Industry Centric Organizations Do and Don't Do

    12/04/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 36 - What Pet Industry Centric Organizations Do and Don't Do

    On this thought-provoking episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take a candid look at the evolving world of pet industry organizations, associations, and trade groups — and what their shifts mean for today’s pet professionals. As the industry continues to grow, so do the expectations placed on business owners. Associations revise their missions, events change formats, leadership shifts direction, and suddenly what once felt like home can start to feel unfamiliar. Lorin and Rob unpack why these changes happen and how they can be both positive and challenging for those who are trying to stay informed, connected, and relevant. They explore questions many pet business owners quietly wrestle with: What if an organization you’ve always supported no longer aligns with your values or business philosophy? How do you decide whether the pressure to join, renew, or attend is worth the investment of money, time, and energy? What does real value and industry support look like today? From shifting educational agendas and membership requirements to events that cater to new audiences or priorities, the hosts discuss how these changes can spark growth — but also confusion, reflection, or frustration. Lorin and Rob share practical insight on: ✔ recognizing when an affiliation is no longer a fit ✔ how to maintain professional relationships without compromising integrity ✔ setting healthier expectations for what associations should provide ✔ choosing groups, events, and partnerships based on purpose — not pressure They remind listeners that belonging everywhere isn’t the goal — belonging where you are respected, supported, and aligned is. Whether you’re a longtime industry insider, a growing business trying to find your seat at the table, or someone reevaluating where you spend your resources and attention, this episode offers clarity, confidence, and a refreshing dose of honest conversation. Tune in for perspective, encouragement, and guidance on navigating pet industry affiliations in a way that supports you, your mission, and your business growth.

    21 min
  4. Practical Pet Business - Episode 35 - Discounts, Incentives, Knowing Your Worth and More...

    11/13/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 35 - Discounts, Incentives, Knowing Your Worth and More...

    On this edition of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take a deep dive into one of the most common — and complicated — topics for pet business owners: discounts, incentives, expectations, and frustrations. Pet parents love a good deal, and in today’s competitive market, it can feel like you have to offer discounts just to stay in the game. But when every sale, service, or product comes with a markdown, what message does that send about your business? Lorin and Rob break down how constant discounting can shift customer expectations, devalue your expertise, and even train your audience to wait for the next sale rather than buy at full price. They also discuss how to identify when discounts make strategic sense — like rewarding loyalty, clearing seasonal stock, or promoting a new service — versus when they simply erode profits. Most importantly, they remind listeners that knowing your worth and communicating your value is far more powerful than competing on price alone. From understanding perceived value to crafting smarter incentives that build trust and long-term relationships, this episode offers practical, real-world advice to help you position your business for sustainable success. All of this and more on this insightful episode of Practical Pet Business.

    21 min
  5. Practical Pet Business - Episode 34 - Dealing with Moody Customers Issues and Solutions

    11/06/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 34 - Dealing with Moody Customers Issues and Solutions

    On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob tackle an all-too-common challenge in the pet industry: handling moody, frustrated, or emotionally overwhelmed customers. In pet care, emotions run high—people deeply love their animals, and that love can show up as anxiety, fear, guilt, or stress. Sometimes, the tension has nothing to do with your business at all. A customer may already be carrying frustration from their day, their family situation, their pet’s health concerns, or simply the uncertainty of not knowing what to expect from your service. Lorin and Rob discuss how these emotional undercurrents can turn interactions on a dime—escalating quickly if not recognized early. More importantly, they break down how business owners and staff can shift from taking it personally to responding strategically. You’ll learn: How to identify early signs of rising tension and emotional overload. Why tone, positioning, and pacing in your communication matter more than the words themselves. Tools to stay grounded, even when someone is projecting their stress onto you or your team. Ways to redirect conversations toward solutions rather than blame or conflict. How to set clear boundaries that protect your staff, time, and mental well-being. Scripts and phrases that work when emotions are already heated. When to coach, when to negotiate, and when to walk away. They also explore how to prepare your team ahead of time so difficult moments don’t feel personal or overwhelming. The goal isn’t to “win” the conversation—it’s to preserve relationships, maintain trust, and ensure everyone leaves with dignity intact. This episode is especially valuable for grooming salons, training businesses, pet retail, daycare/boarding facilities, veterinary practices, and mobile services—anywhere emotions and expectations meet real-world limitations. If you’ve ever left an interaction feeling drained, misunderstood, or unsure how it escalated so quickly—this conversation will help you reset your approach, protect your energy, and respond with clarity and confidence. Tune in to learn how compassionate communication isn’t just customer service—it’s a core business skill that shapes your brand, your culture, and your long-term success.

    18 min
  6. Practical Pet Business - Episode 33 - Provide education and insights that inspire, not bore or berate your customers

    10/30/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 33 - Provide education and insights that inspire, not bore or berate your customers

    On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob dive into one of the biggest challenges in the pet industry today—educating pet parents and customers in a way that informs, engages, and empowers without overwhelming or sounding like a lecture. With so much information (and misinformation) available online, today’s pet parents often come to the table with strong opinions, half-truths, or preconceived “facts” that may not always serve their pets’ best interests. Lorin and Rob unpack how pet professionals can rise above the noise by becoming better listeners, building trust through empathy, and creating genuine connections that lead to better understanding and cooperation. They’ll discuss how to adapt your communication style to different learning types, when to teach versus when to simply guide, and how storytelling and real-world examples can make complex information more relatable and memorable. Whether you’re a groomer, retailer, trainer, or veterinary professional, this episode offers practical strategies for turning everyday interactions into opportunities for education, inspiration, and loyalty. Because when we share knowledge the right way, we don’t just make better customers—we help create more confident, informed, and compassionate pet parents.

    16 min
  7. Practical Pet Business - Episode 32 - Selling live animals, fish, insects and more

    10/23/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 32 - Selling live animals, fish, insects and more

    On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob take on one of the most important — and often controversial — topics in the pet industry: should you sell live animals, insects, fish, or other living beings in your store? What may seem like a natural way to enhance your store’s appeal or diversify your offerings can actually open a complex web of ethical, operational, financial, and emotional considerations. Selling live beings isn’t like adding another product line — it’s a commitment to care, knowledge, and responsibility that extends far beyond the cash register. Lorin and Rob unpack the real-world realities behind this decision: Do you and your team have the expertise to ensure the health and welfare of living creatures in your care? Can your facility provide an environment that supports their physical and emotional well-being — not just short-term display conditions? Are there specialized stores or competitors nearby who have a deeper focus, infrastructure, or following in this area? And even if you can do it — is it truly the right fit for your customers, your brand, and your long-term goals? Beyond the ethical questions, they dig into the business side — the costs of proper care, potential liability concerns, employee training, supply chain oversight, and how consumer perception of live animal sales has evolved in recent years. In today’s market, pet parents are more informed and opinionated than ever. A decision like this can shape not only your bottom line but also your reputation and community relationships. Lorin and Rob explore how to think through these choices with transparency, compassion, and foresight — because when live beings are part of the equation, every choice carries weight. Whether you’re a retailer considering adding fish tanks, feeder insects, or small animals, or you’re rethinking your current model, this conversation will help you see all sides clearly — from ethics to economics, compassion to competition. In the end, the question isn’t just “Can I?” — it’s “Should I?” — and how to make that decision responsibly for your business, your customers, and most importantly, the animals themselves.

    25 min
  8. Practical Pet Business - Episode 31 - In store events promotions and more

    10/16/2025

    Practical Pet Business - Episode 31 - In store events promotions and more

    On this episode of Practical Pet Business, Lorin and Rob dive deep into a topic every pet business owner has wrestled with — in-store events and promotions. Are they really worth it? Do they bring lasting value, or do they just drain your time, your team, and your bottom line? From small, simple in-store happenings to big, buzz-worthy community events, Lorin and Rob explore the full spectrum of what goes into planning, running, and following up on an event. They discuss the positives and negatives — the excitement, energy, and community connection that events can create, versus the challenges, disruptions, and costs that can come with them. They break down what makes an event effective and manageable — How to determine the right scale for your store and audience. When to keep it simple versus when a larger production might make sense. How to make sure everyone — from your team to your vendors — knows their role and responsibilities. And most importantly, how to know whether your event is truly benefiting your customers and your business, or if it’s become a burden that’s taking more than it gives. Lorin and Rob also share ideas for fresh, relevant event types that today’s pet parents actually want to attend — ones that drive engagement, loyalty, and meaningful connections, rather than just foot traffic. From educational experiences to collaborative promotions and online/offline hybrids, they’ll help you rethink what a “successful event” looks like in today’s pet retail world. So before you plan your next adoption day, grooming demo, or seasonal sale, tune in for an honest, experience-based look at what works, what to avoid, and how to make every event align with your purpose, your brand, and your customers’ needs. All of this and more — on this insightful episode of Practical Pet Business.

    21 min
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About

Join Lorin and Robert in this Business Edition of Practical Pet Chat, where they dive into the latest trends and issues affecting the pet industry. Whether you’re a retailer, vendor, manufacturer, or simply someone interested in the business side of the pet world, this podcast is for you. In this episode, they discuss the significant shifts that have accelerated recently, including the pressures faced by independent stores. From the challenges of consumer choice and vendor feedback to the evolving roles of independent distributors and stores, the landscape is changing rapidly. They also explore how the shopping experience has shifted with fewer staff, less product knowledge, and increased availability issues. With stores struggling to maintain brand knowledge and staffing levels, consumer trust, relationships, and loyalty are all on the line. Additionally, they highlight the impact of reduced educational offerings that once defined the local pet store experience. Tune in weekly to Practical Pet Chat Business Edition for a focused look at the pet industry from a business perspective.

Information

  • Creator
    Lorin Grow, Robert Semrow
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Practical Pet Business