The Barkroom Chat

Linda

The Home Groomers Podcast - Start & Scale your home-based dog grooming business  Welcome to The Barkroom Chat — the go-to podcast for women who dream of turning their love for dogs into a thriving home-based grooming business. Whether you're just getting started or ready to grow your grooming side hustle into a full-time career, you're in the right place. Each week, we dive into real talk, practical strategies, and inspiring stories to help you build a business that fits your life — not the other way around. From pricing, bookings, and customer service to holiday promos, mindset shifts, and staying sane behind the scissors — we cover it all. Hosted by Linda Roche, founder of Glossy Pup Academy, The Barkroom Chat is your cozy corner of the internet where passion meets profit — with a splash of dog hair. Grab a cuppa, step into the Barkroom, and let’s grow your grooming biz — Together we can change the world, One dog at a time 🐾

  1. APR 23

    Ep 33 - The ‘Old-School’ Marketing Trick That Filled My Grooming Diary Fast

    When you’re building your home-based dog grooming business, it can feel like everything has to happen online… social media, websites, algorithms. But what if one of the most powerful ways to get clients was actually much simpler — and far more personal? In this episode, we’re talking about why going door-to-door (in a non-pushy, friendly way) can completely transform how quickly you build trust, visibility, and a loyal local client base. If you’re feeling invisible, struggling to get those first bookings, or just want a confidence boost — this episode is for you 💛  What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why face-to-face marketing works so much faster than you think  How to instantly build trust with potential clients  The reason this strategy stands out (while others stay stuck online)  How to create word-of-mouth before you even have clients  Why leaflets work better when paired with a personal introduction  How this can massively boost your confidence as a new groomer  What real-time feedback from your community can teach you 💛 Final Thought  Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply show up, introduce yourself, and become a familiar, friendly face in your local area.   Next Steps If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe and share it with another dog groomer who’s building a business with heart. And if you’re ready to create a more polished, professional, and aligned grooming business—keep an eye out for more resources from Glossy Pup Academy ✨ Resources The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog

    14 min
  2. APR 21

    Ep 32 - How to Get Recommended by Everyone in Your Local Area

    In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most powerful (and underrated) ways to grow your home-based dog grooming business — local partnerships. You’ll learn how to connect with businesses already serving your ideal clients, build trust faster, and create a steady flow of loyal customers… without relying on social media or paid ads.  What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why local partnerships build trust faster than marketing aloneThe best types of pet businesses to collaborate withHow to approach partnerships without feeling awkward or salesySimple ways to create mutually beneficial relationshipsWhat to watch out for (and why not all partnerships are worth it)How to protect your reputation while growing your business💛 Final Thought  Sometimes, the simplest actions create the biggest results.   Next Steps If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe and share it with another dog groomer who’s building a business with heart. And if you’re ready to create a more polished, professional, and aligned grooming business—keep an eye out for more resources from Glossy Pup Academy ✨ Resources The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog

    18 min
  3. APR 15

    Ep 31 - Word-of-Mouth Magic: How to Get Clients Talking About Your Home Salon

    Want more dream clients without spending money on ads or constantly posting online? In this episode, we’re diving into the magic of word-of-mouth marketing — and how you can intentionally create a home grooming experience that has clients raving about you. Because here’s the truth:  The best kind of marketing doesn’t feel like marketing at all… it feels like trust. You’ll learn how to turn everyday appointments into memorable experiences, how to gently encourage referrals (without feeling awkward), and how to build the kind of client relationships that naturally grow your business. If you’ve ever wondered how some groomers seem to always be fully booked with perfect clients — this is the episode for you  🐶 What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why word-of-mouth is the most powerful way to grow your home salon How to create an experience clients can’t stop talking about Simple ways to make your grooms more memorable (without spending lots of money) How to encourage referrals naturally and confidently Easy, brand-aligned ways to reward loyal clients The real reason consistency matters more than perfection How building relationships leads to long-term, loyal clients💛 Final Thought  Word-of-mouth doesn’t happen by accident… it happens by design.  🔗 Next Steps If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe and share it with another dog groomer who’s building a business with heart. And if you’re ready to create a more polished, professional, and aligned grooming business—keep an eye out for more resources from Glossy Pup Academy 🐾✨ Resources The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog

    20 min
  4. MAR 30

    Ep 30 - How to Cut Down Waste in Your Grooming Business (Without Increasing Costs)

    Running a home-based grooming business comes with its own set of challenges—tight margins, limited space, and the constant pressure to stay organised. But one thing that often goes unnoticed? Waste. In this episode, we’re breaking down simple, practical ways to reduce waste in your grooming business—without spending more money or overcomplicating your setup. Because small changes can make a big difference to your profits, your workflow, and your overall peace of mind. 🐶 What You’ll Learn in This Episode  How overusing products is quietly costing you money (and how to fix it) Why wasted time is just as expensive as wasted supplies Simple ways to make your towels last longer and work harder How to avoid overbuying (even when bulk deals are tempting) Why simplifying your setup can actually improve your results Easy swaps to reduce single-use items in your daily routine How creating systems can naturally eliminate waste in your business💛 Final Thought Reducing waste isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional. And when you get that right? Everything in your business starts to feel easier. 🔗 Next Steps If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe and share it with another dog groomer who’s building a business with heart. And if you’re ready to create a more polished, professional, and aligned grooming business—keep an eye out for more resources from Glossy Pup Academy 🐾✨ Resources The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog

    13 min
  5. MAR 21

    Ep 29 - How to Market Yourself as an Eco-Friendly Dog Groomer (Without Greenwashing)

    Sustainability matters more than ever—but when it comes to marketing your dog grooming business, it can feel confusing, overwhelming, or even a bit… performative. In this episode, we’re breaking down how to position yourself as an eco-conscious dog groomer in a way that feels honest, simple, and authentic—without falling into the trap of greenwashing. Because the truth is… you don’t need to be perfect to build a values-led brand your clients trust. 🐶 What You’ll Learn in This Episode  What “eco-friendly” actually means in a home-based grooming business  Simple ways to be more sustainable without overcomplicating things  Why eco-conscious messaging attracts better clients  The biggest mistake to avoid (and how to spot greenwashing)  How to talk about sustainability in a way that builds trust  Easy ways to communicate your values through your content and branding 💛 Final Thought You don’t need to do everything.  You just need to care—and communicate that clearly. Because in a world full of over-promising…  honesty is what truly stands out. 🔗 Next Steps If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you subscribe and share it with another dog groomer who’s building a business with heart. And if you’re ready to create a more polished, professional, and aligned grooming business—keep an eye out for more resources from Glossy Pup Academy 🐾✨ Resources The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog

    11 min
  6. MAR 16

    Ep 28 - 10 Tips for Making Your Business Eco Friendly While Saving You Money at the Same Time

    In this episode, we’re talking about how home-based dog groomers can make their businesses more environmentally friendly — without spending a fortune. Sustainability is becoming increasingly important to pet owners, and making eco-conscious choices can help you reduce waste, lower your business costs, and attract clients who share your values. The good news is you don’t need to overhaul your entire salon overnight. Small, simple changes can make a big difference over time. In this episode you’ll learn: Why sustainability matters in the grooming industryHow eco-friendly choices can actually save you moneySimple ways to reduce waste in your grooming spaceEasy swaps from disposable to reusable productsHow to avoid over-consumerism in your grooming businessPractical ways to use water, energy, and supplies more efficientlyWhether you’re just starting your grooming business or looking for ways to run a more mindful salon, this episode will give you plenty of ideas you can start implementing today. Key Topics Covered Sustainable grooming practicesReducing waste in a dog grooming salonEco-friendly grooming productsLowering costs in a home-based grooming businessAvoiding over-consumption in businessResources The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog

    19 min
  7. MAR 9

    Ep 27 - The Customer is not always right (Recent personal experience / Rant Episode)

    As business owners we hear it over and over again - The customer is always right. Truth Bomb - The Customer is not always right. They are human just like us which means sometimes they are wrong and sometimes they are mean too. In this episode, we’re talking about a recent interaction I had with a lady that left me feeling upset, unmotivated and honestly just defeated. However I thought I would share it with incase something similar has happened to you or will happen to you in the future. Hopefully this will help you to navigate it. This episode is your reminder that no matter how hard you try you will always have atleast one customer that will be unhappy. Thats just the way it is im afraid... people are people.  Other Resources  The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog If You’re a Beginner Groomer… Remember: As long as you are trying your best to provide a safe, friendly and effecient service then its not you! Unfortunately you can't please everyone, no matter what you do. Loved This Episode? If this encouraged you, please: Subscribe so you don’t miss the next episodeLeave a review to help more beginner groomers find the podcastShare this episode with another new groomer who needs reassuranceAnd if you're building your own home-based grooming business and want more clarity, structure, and confidence — there’s plenty more support waiting for you. You’re building something amazing. Keep going. I'm cheering you on every step of the way!

    35 min
  8. FEB 12

    Ep 26 - The Biggest Beginner Grooming Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them in Your First Month)

    Starting your dog grooming journey is exciting… but it can also feel overwhelming. In your first month, you’re learning new skills, working with real clients, handling real dogs, and building a business all at once. It’s a lot — and mistakes are completely normal. In this episode, we’re talking about the most common beginner grooming mistakes and, more importantly, exactly how to avoid them so you can build confidence, protect your energy, and create positive experiences from day one. This episode is your reminder that your first month isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress. In This Episode, We Cover: Why trying to be “perfect” straight away actually slows your progressHow underestimating appointment times creates unnecessary stressWhen it’s okay to say no to certain dogs (and why that’s professional)The communication mistakes that cause awkward client situationsWhy simple systems are essential — even in a tiny home salonHow comparing yourself online damages your confidenceWhat your first month should really focus onOther Resources  The Glossy Pup Blueprint – simple systems and SOPs for home-based groomersOne Year of DONE-FOR-YOU Newsletter TemplateLadies Starting Home-Based Dog Grooming Businesses -  Facebook Page Instagram - @glossypupacademywww.glossypupacademy.comJoin the Glossy Pup Family and recieve your Monthly Mini Magazine, right to your inbox The Glossy Pup Blog If You’re a Beginner Groomer… Remember: Your job in month one isn’t to “get it all right.”  It’s to learn, build confidence, and lay strong foundations. Progress > perfection. Loved This Episode? If this encouraged you, please: Subscribe so you don’t miss the next episodeLeave a review to help more beginner groomers find the podcastShare this episode with another new groomer who needs reassuranceAnd if you're building your own home-based grooming business and want more clarity, structure, and confidence — there’s plenty more support waiting for you. You’re doing something brave. Keep going

    27 min

About

The Home Groomers Podcast - Start & Scale your home-based dog grooming business  Welcome to The Barkroom Chat — the go-to podcast for women who dream of turning their love for dogs into a thriving home-based grooming business. Whether you're just getting started or ready to grow your grooming side hustle into a full-time career, you're in the right place. Each week, we dive into real talk, practical strategies, and inspiring stories to help you build a business that fits your life — not the other way around. From pricing, bookings, and customer service to holiday promos, mindset shifts, and staying sane behind the scissors — we cover it all. Hosted by Linda Roche, founder of Glossy Pup Academy, The Barkroom Chat is your cozy corner of the internet where passion meets profit — with a splash of dog hair. Grab a cuppa, step into the Barkroom, and let’s grow your grooming biz — Together we can change the world, One dog at a time 🐾