The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast With Nathan Dunleavy

Nathan Dunleavy

Running a pet business is rewarding, but let’s be honest - it’s also tough, messy and sometimes overwhelming. That’s why this podcast exists. I’m Nathan Dunleavy - multi award winning business owner, qualified dog trainer, behaviour consultant, business mentor and wellbeing advocate. After 7+ years running award-winning pet businesses (and 13 years in corporate business banking before that), I know first hand the highs, lows and wobbles that come with building a pet care career. This podcast is your space for honest conversations, practical advice and the kind of support that helps you build a business you actually enjoy being in. Expect bite-sized tips on boundaries, burnout, pricing, planning and confidence… plus guest experts covering everything from websites and branding to emotional wellbeing and imposter syndrome. Because here’s the truth: wellbeing isn’t a luxury - it’s part of the business plan. So, if you’re a pet professional who’s ready to grow with purpose (not pressure), hit follow and join the conversation.

  1. Episode 1

    Season 2 Begins: What’s Coming Up for Pet Professionals on The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast with Nathan Dunleavy

    Season 2 is here - with inspiring guests, honest business journeys, wellbeing conversations and support for pet professionals who want to grow sustainably. Episode Description:Season 2 is officially here and there’s a lot to be excited about. In this opening episode, Nathan shares what’s ahead for the next chapter of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, including a fantastic line-up of guests from across the pet industry, returning favourites from Season 1 and a deeper focus on the person behind the pet business. This season will explore real journeys, honest challenges, business growth, wellbeing, resilience and the stories that shape the people behind the brands. Nathan also shares exciting behind-the-scenes updates on the upcoming Pet Business Wellbeing Circle+ membership, his sponsorship of the Canine Principles Inside Out Symposium and why Season 2 could be the most meaningful yet. If you run a dog walking, training, grooming, pet sitting or pet care business - this season is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ What’s coming up in Season 2 of the podcast ✅ The exciting guest line-up already confirmed ✅ Why this season will focus more on the person behind the business ✅ How real business journeys can inspire other pet professionals ✅ Why wellbeing remains central to the podcast mission ✅ Nathan’s plans for a solo episode sharing his own business story ✅ What The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle+ membership will offer ✅ Why community, support and growth without pressure matters ✅ Details about sponsoring the Canine Principles Inside Out Symposium ✅ How you can support the podcast through follows, shares and reviews Key Takeaways:Season 2 will go deeper into the stories behind pet businesses.Hearing real journeys can reduce isolation and inspire action.Sustainable business growth must include wellbeing.Community support matters more than many realise.Nathan is expanding support through Circle+ group mentoring.The podcast continues to champion honest, human conversations.Exciting collaborations and guest experts are on the way.The pet industry needs spaces where people feel seen and supported. Show Notes Links:Host: Nathan Dunleavy 📧 Email: hello@nathandunleavy.com 🌐 Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ 🆓 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ 🆓 5 Steps to Start Your Dog Walking Business: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ 💬 Free Facebook Community – The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle

  2. Episode 2

    Dog Training, Writing & Scent Detection: Melissa McCue-McGrath on Misadventures, Burnout & Invasive Species Detection

    Melissa McCue-McGrath joins me to talk dog training stories, writing a book, compassion fatigue and the incredible world of invasive species detection dogs. Episode Description:In this episode, I’m joined by international guest Melissa McCue-McGrath - dog trainer, behaviour consultant, author and all-round brilliant human. We chat about her new book, Misadventures of the World’s Okayest Dog Trainer, the real behind-the-scenes stories of working with dogs and humans, compassion fatigue, writing as a pet professional and her fascinating work with dogs detecting invasive species. This is a warm, funny, honest and deeply insightful conversation about dog training, wellbeing and the unexpected places this work can take us. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ The story behind Melissa’s book Misadventures of the World’s Okayest Dog Trainer ✅ Why dog training is often as much about humans as it is about dogs ✅ How the dog training industry has changed over the years ✅ Why compassion fatigue can creep in before we realise it ✅ How writing can become a powerful reflective tool for pet professionals ✅ Why pet pros may have a book, blog or story inside them ✅ What invasive species detection work involves ✅ How pet dogs can be trained to help detect spotted lanternfly ✅ Why scent work can change how guardians see their dogs ✅ The importance of trusting your gut in animal welfare and training Key Takeaways:Dog training involves real-life moments no textbook can fully prepare you for.Stories from the industry can help newer pet professionals feel less alone.Compassion fatigue often becomes visible only once we step back.Writing can be therapeutic, reflective and useful for others.Pet dogs are capable of incredible scent detection work.Behaviour cases can still thrive when given meaningful, confidence-building jobs.The dog industry is changing and there are more supportive resources than ever.If something feels wrong in training or welfare, it is okay to question it. Show Notes Links:Host: Nathan Dunleavy Email: hello@nathandunleavy.com Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ 5 Steps to Start Your Dog Walking Business: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/ Guest: Melissa McCue-McGrath Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mcmccue Website: https://melissamccuemcgrath.com/ Buy Melissa’s book in the UK: https://5mbooks.com/product/misadventures-of-the-worlds-okayest-dog-trainer For the US and elsewhere, search Amazon for: Misadventures of the World’s Okayest Dog Trainer

  3. Episode 3

    One Paw at a Time: Dog Rehabilitation, Trauma & Recovery After a Freak Accident with Jo Sellers

    When Jo Sellers’ dog Reba suffered a devastating freak accident, their lives changed overnight and this episode explores the raw, real journey of trauma, rehabilitation, resilience and love. Episode Description:In this emotional episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, I’m joined by Jo Sellers, dog trainer, separation anxiety specialist and author of One Paw at a Time. Jo shares the story of her beloved dog Reba, who suffered a serious spinal injury after a freak accident in the garden and the long rehabilitation journey that followed. We talk about the reality of caring for a dog after trauma, the emotional and financial impact on the person behind the business and why Jo chose to write such an honest, raw account of their experience. This episode is a powerful reminder that behind every pet professional is a human being navigating life, love, grief, difficult decisions and deep care. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Jo’s journey from dog walking to separation anxiety specialist ✅ How Reba’s separation anxiety shaped Jo’s career ✅ What happened during Reba’s freak accident ✅ The emotional reality of emergency veterinary care ✅ What rehabilitation after spinal trauma can really involve ✅ How caring for Reba affected Jo’s business and wellbeing ✅ Why Jo wrote One Paw at a Time ✅ The importance of support, honesty and not feeling alone ✅ Why dog guardians need to understand separation anxiety Key Takeaways:Freak accidents can change everything in a moment.Rehabilitation is often far more demanding than people realise.Pet professionals are still human beings with trauma, grief and limits.Financial pressure, emotional strain and business disruption can all collide during a crisis.Jo’s story is a reminder that difficult decisions are deeply personal.You are not alone if you are supporting a dog through a hard chapter.Separation anxiety can be hidden and guardians should check how their dogs cope alone. Find Jo Sellers:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pippinpets Website: https://www.pippinpetsdogtraining.co.uk/ Find Nathan:Email: hello@nathandunleavy.com Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ 5 Steps Freebie: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/

  4. Episode 4

    Muzzled and Misunderstood: Breaking the Stigma Around Muzzle Dogs with Diane from Dogs in Focus Photography

    A compassionate conversation about muzzle stigma, reactive dogs, responsible guardianship and the love behind every muzzle-trained dog. Episode Description:In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, Nathan Dunleavy is joined by dog photographer and author Diane from Dogs in Focus Photography to talk about her beautiful book Muzzled and Misunderstood: A Love Letter to My Muzzled Dog. Together, they explore the realities of living with and loving a muzzle-trained dog, the stigma many guardians face and why muzzles can actually be a compassionate, responsible tool - not something to fear. Diane shares the story of her own dog DeeDee, how her journey inspired The Muzzle Project and why photographing muzzle dogs became a mission to educate, empower and change perceptions. This conversation is honest, emotional, insightful and packed with important reminders for dog guardians and pet professionals alike. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why muzzle training can actually improve a dog’s freedom and quality of life ✅ The real reasons dogs may wear muzzles - beyond aggression or bite history ✅ How Diane’s dog DeeDee inspired The Muzzle Project and her book ✅ Why education and understanding are so important in reducing muzzle stigma ✅ How responsible dog guardians often face judgement from the public ✅ The importance of well-fitted muzzles and positive muzzle training ✅ How photography and storytelling can help change perceptions around dogs ✅ What it was like creating a passion project alongside running a pet business ✅ Why “muzzle dogs are not bad dogs” is such an important message ✅ How pet professionals can better support guardians of reactive or challenging dogs Key Takeaways:Muzzles are management tools, not punishmentsMuzzle-trained dogs can still play, pant, eat, drink and enjoy lifeResponsible guardianship should be celebrated, not judgedMany dogs wear muzzles for reasons unrelated to aggressionReactive and sensitive dogs deserve compassion and understandingPhotography and storytelling can be powerful educational toolsPassion projects can create huge personal and professional growthThere is still a significant need for public education around dog behaviour and muzzles 👇 Diane’s Links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dogsinfocusphotography/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_muzzle_project/ Website & Book: https://www.dogsinfocusphotography.com/muzzled-and-misunderstood/ 👇 Nathan’s Links:Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ Free 5 Steps Guide: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ Free Facebook Group: The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/

  5. Episode 5

    From Grief to Growth: Building a Purpose-Driven Pet Business with Claire Harris of Pets2Places

    A powerful conversation about grief, resilience, community and building a meaningful pet business that genuinely changes lives. Episode Description:In this powerful and deeply honest episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, Nathan Dunleavy is joined by Claire Harris, founder of Pets2Places - the UK’s first pet taxi franchise. Claire shares the raw reality behind the business: losing her husband suddenly, navigating grief whilst raising three children, experiencing burnout and bullying within a franchise system and rebuilding her life from the ground up through purpose, pets and community connection. Together, Nathan and Claire explore the emotional realities of running a business, why human connection matters more than ever, the hidden loneliness many pet professionals face and how difficult experiences can shape who we become. They also dive into the world of pet transport safety, franchising ethically, protecting your energy in business and why success is rarely as “overnight” as social media makes it seem. This episode is honest, emotional, inspiring and packed with valuable insight for dog walkers, trainers, pet sitters, groomers and anyone building a pet business with heart. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How Claire rebuilt her life and business after sudden personal tragedy ✅ Why human connection is one of the most overlooked parts of the pet industry ✅ The emotional realities of running a business whilst navigating grief and trauma ✅ What it really takes to build a successful franchise model ethically ✅ Why comparison and “competition” in business can become a distraction ✅ The importance of staying authentic and building a business aligned with your values ✅ Why older generations still have so much wisdom to offer pet professionals ✅ The hidden dangers of unsafe pet transport and why education matters ✅ How Pets2Places is working to improve pet travel safety across the UK ✅ Why difficult lessons often become the foundations of future success Key Takeaways:Success rarely happens overnight - most businesses are built quietly over years.Human connection and community are becoming more valuable than ever.You don’t need to copy others to succeed in business.Your lived experiences can become your greatest strength.Ethical franchising should focus on support, not pressure.Protecting your wellbeing is essential when building a business.Safe pet transport is a much bigger issue than many realise.Authenticity and kindness are powerful business tools.Hard seasons do not define your future.You are your business’s “secret sauce.” Links & Resources:🌐 Nathan Dunleavy https://nathandunleavy.com/ 📩 Email Nathan hello@nathandunleavy.com 📘 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ 🐾 Free Dog Walking Business Resource https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ 🌿 Join The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle 🚕 Pets2Places https://pets2places.co.uk/ 🚕 Pets2Places Franchise https://pets2placesfranchise.co.uk/ 📘 Claire Harris LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-harris-80780512a/ 📱 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pets2placesltd/

  6. Episode 6

    The Vet Says Rest: Dog Enrichment, Recovery & Why Dogs Don’t Need Walks Every Day with Laura Carter IMDT

    A powerful conversation about enrichment, recovery, realistic expectations and why dogs don’t measure happiness in miles walked. Episode Description:What happens when the vet suddenly says your dog needs strict rest? For many dog guardians, it can feel overwhelming, isolating and honestly… a little terrifying. In this episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, Nathan chats with dog trainer and author Laura Carter IMDT about her book The Vet Says Rest, the emotional realities of caring for dogs on restricted exercise and why enrichment, connection and slowing down matter more than many people realise. Laura shares how working with injured dogs inspired her to write the book, why “just give them a Kong” often isn’t enough and how enrichment can support not only dogs recovering from surgery or injury but also reactive dogs, older dogs, overwhelmed dogs and even exhausted pet professionals. The conversation also explores Laura’s 20-year journey in the dog industry, moving from Kent to Scotland, creating the Wags Without Walks membership, the evolution of ethical dog training and why teaching dogs to do nothing might actually be one of the most important skills of all. This is a thoughtful, reassuring episode packed with practical advice and compassionate insight for both dog guardians and pet professionals. What You’ll Learn In This Episode:✅ Why strict rest and crate rest can be emotionally challenging for both dogs and guardians ✅ How enrichment can support dogs recovering from injury, surgery, or illness ✅ Why walks aren’t always the best outlet for every dog ✅ The hidden stress many dog guardians experience when their dog suddenly can’t exercise normally ✅ How Laura’s book The Vet Says Rest was inspired by real rehabilitation cases ✅ Why relationship and connection matter more than perfect obedience ✅ How dog training has evolved over the past 20 years ✅ The importance of choice, agency, sniffing and natural behaviours ✅ Why teaching dogs to relax is just as important as keeping them busy ✅ Laura’s journey from in-person dog training to creating an online membership community ✅ The realities of building a dog business, writing a book and adapting over time Key Takeaways:Dogs don’t necessarily need long walks every single dayEnrichment and brain games can be more beneficial than physical exercise aloneRest and recovery can place huge emotional pressure on caregiversEthical dog training has shifted massively towards relationship-based approachesSniffing, choice and natural behaviours are vital for wellbeingSometimes “doing nothing” is a skill dogs need help learningOnline memberships can help dog professionals support clients in new waysDogs value quality time and connection more than mileage walkedLess can genuinely be more for many dogs Show NotesNathan Dunleavy:📧 hello@nathandunleavy.com 🌐 Nathan Dunleavy Website 📥 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: Pet Pro Rescue Plan 📥 Free Dog Walking Business Resource: 5 Steps Freebie 💬 Join The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle: The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle Facebook Group Laura Carter IMDT:🌐 Laura Carter Canines 🌐 Wags Without Walks 📘 Laura Carter Canines Facebook Page

  7. Episode 7

    Inside The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle Plus: Support for Overwhelmed Pet Pros with Nathan Dunleavy & Amanda VanTassel

    A heartfelt conversation about burnout, boundaries, business support and why pet professionals deserve safe spaces too. Episode Description:What happens when passionate pet professionals start running on empty? In this special “podcast takeover” episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, returning guest Amanda VanTassel from No Hassle Dog Training flips the microphone around and interviews Nathan Dunleavy about the launch of his brand new membership community - The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle Plus. Together, they dive into the realities of burnout, overwhelm, imposter syndrome, boundaries, compassion fatigue and the emotional weight many pet professionals quietly carry behind the scenes. Nathan shares his own personal journey with anxiety, burnout and chronic health struggles, alongside the inspiration behind creating a wellbeing-focused mentoring membership designed specifically for pet professionals who want support without pressure. This honest, relaxed conversation explores why running a pet business should support your life - not consume it. Whether you're a dog trainer, dog walker, behaviourist, groomer, vet professional or pet business owner feeling overwhelmed, exhausted or isolated… this episode is your reminder that you're not alone. What You’ll Learn In This Episode:✅ What inspired Nathan to create The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle Plus ✅ Why so many pet professionals struggle with overwhelm and burnout ✅ The hidden emotional toll of running a pet business ✅ How business mentoring differs from traditional business coaching ✅ Why wellbeing and business support should go hand in hand ✅ The importance of boundaries, rest and taking proper time off ✅ Why imposter syndrome is so common in the pet industry ✅ How community and collaboration can reduce isolation ✅ The role reflection prompts, mentoring and accountability can play in business growth ✅ Why “running a business should support your life, not consume it” Key Takeaways:Pet professionals often love the animal work but struggle with the business side.Burnout, compassion fatigue and overwhelm are incredibly common in the industry.Asking for support is not failure - it’s a strength.Sustainable businesses require boundaries and rest.Group mentoring can provide connection, accountability and reassurance.Many pet professionals feel isolated behind the scenes.Community over competition creates safer, healthier industries.Wellbeing is not separate from business success - it supports it. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES:🌐 Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ 🐾 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ 📘 Free “5 Steps” Guide: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ 💬 Join The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle (Free Facebook Community): https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle 📧 Email Nathan: hello@nathandunleavy.com 📌 Amanda Van Tassel / No Hassle Dog Training: https://nohassledogtraining.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/nohassledogtraining/ https://www.facebook.com/amanda.vantassel.7

  8. Episode 8

    From Corporate Banking to Pet Business Mentor: Nathan Dunleavy’s Journey to Building a Sustainable Pet Business

    From corporate banking to dog walking, mentoring and wellbeing advocacy - Nathan shares the story behind the businesses, lessons and experiences that shaped his journey. Episode Description:In this special solo episode of The Pet Business Wellbeing Podcast, Nathan Dunleavy shares the story behind his journey from corporate and business banking to building multiple pet businesses and launching The Pet Business Wellbeing Mentor. Nathan opens up about the highs, the challenges and the pivotal moments that shaped his career from buying his first property at 18 and working in corporate banking, to starting a dog walking business from scratch, navigating the uncertainty of the pandemic and creating a wellbeing-focused mentoring business for pet professionals. This honest and personal episode explores why wellbeing matters in business, the realities of running a pet business and why seeking support isn't a sign of weakness - it's a strategy for sustainable success. Nathan also shares details about the brand-new Pet Pro Reset Experience and the launch of The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle Plus. Whether you're a dog walker, trainer, groomer, pet sitter or another pet professional, this episode will remind you that you don't have to do it all alone. What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ How Nathan transitioned from a career in corporate and business banking into the pet industry ✅ Why dog walking became the foundation for multiple successful businesses ✅ The lessons Nathan learned from running two businesses simultaneously ✅ How the pandemic transformed Nathan's business direction ✅ Why specialising in separation anxiety became such an important part of his work ✅ The inspiration behind The Dog Walking Business Mentor ✅ Why pet professionals need more support with business wellbeing ✅ How The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle was created ✅ What to expect from the new Pet Business Wellbeing Circle Plus membership ✅ Why asking for support can help you build a more sustainable business Key Takeaways:Your career path doesn't have to follow a traditional route.Every experience you have can contribute to your future success.Dog walking is a highly skilled and often under-appreciated profession.Business growth isn't always about doing more - sometimes it's about simplifying.Burnout isn't a badge of honour.Boundaries are essential for long-term success.Mentorship can accelerate growth and reduce overwhelm.Building community helps combat the isolation many pet professionals experience.Sustainable businesses are built around wellbeing, not sacrifice.You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Show Notes & Resources:📧 Email: hello@nathandunleavy.com 🌐 Website: https://nathandunleavy.com/ 📥 Free Pet Pro Rescue Plan: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/pet-pro-rescue-plan/ 🐾 Free 5 Steps Guide: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/5-steps/ 🌿 Join The Pet Business Wellbeing Circle - Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepetbusinesswellbeingcircle/ ✨ Register for the FREE Pet Pro Reset Experience: https://dogwalkingmentor.co.uk/the-ppr-experience/

See All Season 2 (20)

About

Running a pet business is rewarding, but let’s be honest - it’s also tough, messy and sometimes overwhelming. That’s why this podcast exists. I’m Nathan Dunleavy - multi award winning business owner, qualified dog trainer, behaviour consultant, business mentor and wellbeing advocate. After 7+ years running award-winning pet businesses (and 13 years in corporate business banking before that), I know first hand the highs, lows and wobbles that come with building a pet care career. This podcast is your space for honest conversations, practical advice and the kind of support that helps you build a business you actually enjoy being in. Expect bite-sized tips on boundaries, burnout, pricing, planning and confidence… plus guest experts covering everything from websites and branding to emotional wellbeing and imposter syndrome. Because here’s the truth: wellbeing isn’t a luxury - it’s part of the business plan. So, if you’re a pet professional who’s ready to grow with purpose (not pressure), hit follow and join the conversation.

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