The Traveling Groomers Podcast

Welcome to Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise with hosts Mary Oquendo and Michelle Knowles with a lively discussion centered on the importance of branding in the pet grooming industry. They dive into what really makes a brand memorable, sharing personal anecdotes—from childhood games to logo recognition—and uncover how colors, consistency, and authenticity shape the way clients perceive your business. Whether you’re a mobile groomer, salon owner, or house-call specialist, you’ll discover actionable tips for making your branding mesh with your personality, your services, and your target clientele. Expect real stories, expert advice, and a whole lot of relatable banter as the crew explores everything from logo design to website hacks. Plus, Mary Oquendo and Michelle Knowles share details about their upcoming events and encourage listeners to connect, suggest future topics, and even recommend guests. If you’re looking to kick-start your year by taking your grooming business to the next level, this episode will set you on the right path. Let’s jump in!

Welcome aboard for episode 314 of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this cozy, nostalgia-filled conversation, Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo kick things off with friendly banter, comfort food memories, and funny tales of life with their pets. As always, they don’t stray far from the world of grooming—this time unpacking the evolution of grooming tools, essential equipment maintenance, and the explosion of innovative new combs and brushes in the industry. From humble beginnings with classic greyhound combs to a modern toolkit packed with specialized options, Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo share stories, advice, and even a bit of dumpster diving for those precious tools! You’ll hear how today’s grooming professionals benefit from gear designed by fellow groomers, how to protect your investments, and why ergonomics matter more than ever. There are plenty of laughs, practical insights, and a sneak peek at upcoming workshops—all set against the backdrop of the ever-changing world of mobile and house-call grooming. So grab your favorite travel mug, settle in, and join as the Traveling Groomers explore “New Year, New Tech,” sharing the latest industry trends, product picks, and real-life anecdotes to help you up your grooming game in 2025 and beyond.

Welcome aboard to another episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast, where the world of mobile and house call grooming comes alive! In this episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo dive deep into what it means to truly invest in your grooming business—especially during the holiday season and as we roll into the New Year. Forget standard New Year’s resolutions! Instead, our hosts challenge groomers to think about "gifting" their business—whether it’s upgrading equipment, streamlining operations by cutting unnecessary subscriptions, or even adding valuable enrichment tools and treats to make life easier for both pets and groomers. The conversation covers everything from the practical (like the importance of a trash can with a lid) to self-care for your business, such as revamping policies, updating first aid kits, and being honest with yourself and your clients. You’ll also hear real-world stories about upholding policies, handling those tricky cancellation fees, and advocating for yourself and your furry clients both in the grooming salon and at the vet’s office. Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo blend wisdom, humor, and a healthy dose of real talk, sharing both lessons learned the hard way and tips to start your new year with clarity and confidence. So grab your travel mug, hop aboard, and let’s explore how you can set your business up for another successful, fulfilling year. Happy New Year, and happy grooming!

Welcome aboard to episode 312 of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this festive and insightful episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo invite groomers, pet stylists, and canine cosmetologists to settle in with a travel mug and join them for a journey through the ups and downs of the grooming business during the holiday season.Recorded right before the holiday rush and airing just as groomers are in the home stretch, this episode dives into everything from surviving Christmas week and the importance of regular scheduling, to handling winter weather challenges and making the most of those coveted holiday tips. Chris  and mary share their favorite client gifts (yes, even cookies!), experiences with holiday slowdowns, and strategies for self-care and realistic goal-setting as you plan for the year ahead.Plus, they explore creative ways mobile and house call groomers can incorporate retail into their business, offer advice on managing finances, and discuss the value of outsourcing tasks to increase your hourly worth. Throughout, expect fun digressions (advent calendars for groomers and even cats!) and heartfelt encouragement to help you navigate the hectic season with a bit more grace and joy.Whether you’re hoping for a relaxing holiday, looking for inspiration for your grooming business, or just need some company to get through this busy week, Chris and Mary are here for you. Grab those mugs—let’s head out together and see where today’s episode takes us!

Welcome aboard the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo dive into the realities of wrapping up the year as professional groomers, pet stylists, and canine cosmetologists. As the holiday rush winds down, they share insight on taking a moment to breathe, assess your business, and make plans for the year ahead. Drawing parallels to the changing seasons and lessons learned from the pandemic, they discuss how to adapt to economic shifts, streamline your operations, and, most importantly, why having a coach is an investment in your success—not just an expense. You’ll also hear candid stories about travel mishaps, client cancellations, and the importance of self-care. Plus, join in as they swap tales from the Rocky Mountain show—Halloween costumes, local adventures, and unforgettable moments with their grooming community. Whether you’re prepping for the new year or recharging for another busy season, this episode is packed with practical advice, heartfelt anecdotes, and a few fun tangents to keep you smiling. So grab your travel mug and climb aboard—the Traveling Groomers Podcast is ready to roll!

Welcome aboard another lively ride with the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by special guest Samantha Palya for an honest and engaging roundtable that dives deep into the world of mobile and house call grooming, continuing education, and life on the road as a pet professional. This week, the trio swap stories about their experiences traveling to trade shows, the unique exhaustion that comes with always being “on,” and what it really means to manage a career in grooming – from long stretches away from family to the quirks of navigating New Jersey roads! Samantha offers fascinating insights into teaching grooming courses at the college level and shares her passion for cultivating structured education for up-and-coming groomers. The crew also opens up about the importance of early skills, safety, and evolving industry standards, highlighting the vital role that continued learning plays in staying at the top of your game. You’ll hear hilarious tales from the grooming table (yes, including face-fulls of anal glands), heartfelt advice about business skills, and memorable moments with family at industry events. Samantha also introduces her community-building initiative, Operation Read a Page, designed to spark joy and bonding for young attendees at trade shows. Whether you’re a seasoned groomer, aspiring stylist, or just tuning in for the camaraderie – grab your travel mug and join in on the journey! So get ready for laughter, learning, and plenty of relatable “why we do what we do” stories as the Traveling Groomers Podcast rolls out another episode packed with real talk, industry wisdom, and fun digressions you won’t want to miss.

Welcome to another lively episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In today’s special live recording, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by Annalisa Signorelli, a seasoned grooming professional and problem-solver who’s bringing innovation to the grooming table. This episode—recorded live  simultaneously on the California Groomers Association and Traveling Groomers Facebook pages—dives into one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: communication between groomers and clients.Chris, Mary, and Annalisa share real-life anecdotes of grooming mix-ups, client misunderstandings, and the infamous “I’ll do my best” promise that leaves groomers everywhere sighing in solidarity. But it’s not just about venting—Annalisa introduces an exciting new app designed to transform client consultations, using easy-to-understand visuals and AI-powered customization to help bridge the communication gap and protect groomers from lost revenue and unhappy customers.If you’re a pet groomer who’s ever found yourself caught between a client’s expectations and grooming reality, or if you’re looking for practical tools to run your business smoother, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear about the importance of clear client communication, the role of continuing education, charming behind-the-scenes stories, and how technology is helping groomers everywhere “do their best”—and then some.Grab your shears and let’s get started!

The holidays can be the busiest—and most stressful—time of year for groomers. In this episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo share practical strategies to keep your business running smoothly while protecting your sanity.From smart holiday scheduling hacks to making sure your equipment and van are in top shape, we dive into everything you need to plan ahead and avoid chaos. You’ll pick up tips for clear client communication, setting boundaries, and finding time to breathe in the middle of the rush.And because self-care matters as much as business prep, we talk about the importance of taking downtime, rewarding yourself, and leaning on your grooming community for support.Whether you’re a seasoned pro or gearing up for your first holiday rush, this episode will help you stay organized, prepared, and positive—so you can make this your most successful (and least stressful) season yet.

Welcome aboard, fellow groomers, pet stylists, and canine cosmetologists!In this episode of The Traveling Groomers Podcast, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by the ever-delightful Amanda McGrath for an insightful—and frequently hilarious—conversation all about turning chaos into calm in your grooming business.The trio dives into Amanda’s brand-new, all-in-one planner created specifically for the grooming industry. They explore why organization is often the missing key for many professionals—and how implementing streamlined systems can save you hours every week.You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at Amanda’s approach to taming both physical and digital clutter, hear some all-too-relatable tales of tech trouble, and pick up expert tips on time-blocking, boosting productivity, and ditching that overwhelming “I’m drowning” feeling every busy groomer knows.Amanda also shares how to get your hands on her highly anticipated planner, gives us the scoop on her latest Etsy offerings, and teases what’s coming next in her mission to help groomers reclaim their time (and sanity).Whether you’re a mobile groomer, salon owner, or just trying to keep the fur off your keyboard, this episode is packed with laughs, wisdom, and real-world strategies to help you work smarter—not harder.So grab your travel mug, hit play, and get ready to get organized!

Hey, Traveling Groomers! In this episode, Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo take you along for an exclusive, whirlwind adventure behind the scenes at Super Zoo in Las Vegas and Hershey Groom Expo. From the bustling Mandalay Bay Convention Center floor to impromptu interviews with industry pros, vendors, and podcast fans, you’ll get a real insider’s look at the grooming world’s biggest trade shows.We explore the latest grooming tools and technology, like innovative neck dryers and AI-powered pet check-in assistants, and chat with vendors about everything from van conversions to cutting-edge sanitation solutions. Plus, Chris and Mary get real about the high-energy (and sometimes overwhelming) experience of trade shows, share tips for surviving long days on your feet, and reflect on the importance of industry connections, education, and, of course, comfy shoes!You’ll also hear about the Purina Purple Leash Project, fun vendor giveaways, and some hilarious trade show mishaps—because what’s a grooming expo without losing your spoons and  accidentally following a cute corgi? Whether you’re a show regular or thinking about attending your first expo, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and the kind of camaraderie that keeps the grooming community strong.So grab your travel mug and settle in—let’s roll!

From Groom Expo prep to celebrating Barkleigh Honors winners, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo mix laughs, real talk, and practical tips for grooming pros. Discover how Surrounded by Idiots can help you work better with clients and colleagues, why boundaries matter, and the life-saving importance of carbon monoxide detectors in mobile vans. Camaraderie, insight, and a few hilarious detours—this is grooming talk at its best.

Welcome to another lively episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! Hosts Mary Oquendo and Chris Anthony welcome Tina Davis  to share behind-the-scenes details and spirited conversations about preparing for the upcoming Rocky Mountain Groom Expo—now bringing its unique flair to Arizona! Laugh along as the hosts navigate technical hiccups, swap stories about altitude sickness and travel woes, and dig into the joys and challenges of organizing a grooming trade show. Tina gives listeners an exclusive peek at the Mesa Convention Center venue, complete with hotel tips, Arizona acclimation advice, and—of course—a glimpse at the food options (food trucks or concessions, anyone?). Get ready to mark your calendar: the show runs from October 31st through November 2nd, punctuated by not just expert classes but also community celebrations, including a vibrant Día de los Muertos festival and a Halloween costume parade for kids, adults, and even pets! Learn about the star-studded speaker lineup, specialty classes, and why this expo stands out from the rest. Whether you’re a seasoned grooming pro or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with camaraderie, insider tips, and genuine moments that remind us all why the grooming community is truly a family. So tune in, get inspired, and get ready for some laughs—you won’t want to miss this preview of everything the Rocky Mountain Groom Expo has in store!

Welcome aboard another episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! This week, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by special guest Lisa Menze—a longtime groomer turned pet care staffing expert. In this jam-packed discussion, we explore everything from the benefits of hiring virtual assistants in the grooming industry to practical tips on working smarter, not harder. Lisa shares her insider knowledge on how groomers can reclaim precious hours in their workweek with the help of trained virtual support, and dives into the crucial difference between personal and business credit. We also get an early look at her upcoming educational programs designed to help pet professionals build business credit and plan for a sustainable, less stressful future. Whether you’re a solopreneur drowning in to-dos or # seasoned business owner looking to level up, there’s something in this episode for you—plus a few fun digressions, of course. So grab your travel mug and get ready for another enlightening ride with the Traveling Groomers!

Welcome back to the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this special episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by the wonderful Kirstine Reynolds for an honest, insightful, and often hilarious conversation that covers everything from grooming giant floofy cats to surviving breast cancer and breaking down barriers in the grooming industry. Recorded just before the Rocky Mountain Groom Expo, this episode dives deep into personal journeys—sharing the joys (and challenges) of caring for Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats, the uniquely open camaraderie among breast cancer survivors, and the importance of normalizing tough topics in a female-dominated industry. The trio also explores the latest science in canine cognition with the introduction of the Cognitive Grooming Method, highlighting how modern research can help us better connect with and care for our four-legged clients. Whether you’re a groomer, a pet lover, or someone looking for some laughter and encouragement, join us for a heartfelt and educational ride filled with stories, expert advice, and a celebration of community in the world of mobile and housecall grooming. Buckle up and enjoy the journey—let’s roll!

Welcome aboard the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this milestone 300th episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by their long-time friend (and not-so-special-guest-anymore), Angie, for a lively conversation that digs deep into the world of cat grooming. As always, expect a blend of practical wisdom, hilarious asides, industry insights, and plenty of real talk from groomers who've learned their lessons—the hard way and otherwise. This week, the trio opens up about lessons learned from years of mobile and house call grooming, with a special focus on the unique challenges and approaches in cat grooming. They share personal stories—sometimes hair-raising, sometimes heartwarming—about reading feline body language, understanding stress signals, setting boundaries for both pets and clients, and the importance of prioritizing safety over simply "getting the job done." The episode also tackles outdated handling techniques, misconceptions about cats, and the differences between being a “cat groomer” versus a “dog groomer who grooms cats.” Of course, it wouldn't be the Traveling Groomers without fun detours—think peach trees, homemade cyanide jokes, and enthusiastic celebrations of their 300th episode. Along the way, they offer both new and seasoned groomers invaluable advice on recognizing when to stop a groom, handling aggressive or fragile cats, and the all-important reminder to always wear masks when blow drying. Plus: learn why conditioning cats is just as crucial as conditioning dogs, and get tips on setting up your grooming space for a more positive feline experience. If you’re looking for honest advice, a few laughs, and a deep dive into the art (and science) of compassionate, effective pet grooming, you’re in for a treat. Grab your travel mug and tune in—the Traveling Groomers are taking you on another unforgettable ride!

Welcome back to the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Mary Oquendo and Chris Anthony welcome the lovely and talented Ashley Hanvey for a deep dive into the evolving world of grooming behavior and handling. Together, they peel back the layers on some of the industry’s hottest—and most controversial—topics, including consent grooming, cooperative care, and what these concepts really mean both for groomers and the pets in their care. Get ready for an open, honest discussion where no topic is off limits. The trio debates the language around "consent," challenges old-school grooming practices, and explores how scientific understanding of animal emotions is reshaping the way we think about our four-legged clients. They don’t shy away from industry truths, share personal stories of growth (and cringe-worthy mistakes), and stress the need for continual education in an unregulated industry. Whether you're a seasoned groomer, an industry educator, or just passionate about animal care, this episode is packed with valuable insights and some strong opinions—all delivered with the humor and camaraderie you've come to expect from the Traveling Groomers Podcast. Buckle up—it’s going to be an enlightening ride!

Welcome back to the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this thought-provoking episode, hosts Mary Oquendo and Chris Anthony welcome the lovely and talented Ashley Hanvey for a deep dive into the evolving world of grooming behavior and handling. Together, they peel back the layers on some of the industry’s hottest—and most controversial—topics, including consent grooming, cooperative care, and what these concepts really mean both for groomers and the pets in their care. Get ready for an open, honest discussion where no topic is off limits. The trio debates the language around "consent," challenges old-school grooming practices, and explores how scientific understanding of animal emotions is reshaping the way we think about our four-legged clients. They don’t shy away from industry truths, share personal stories of growth (and cringe-worthy mistakes), and stress the need for continual education in an unregulated industry. Whether you're a seasoned groomer, an industry educator, or just passionate about animal care, this episode is packed with valuable insights and some strong opinions—all delivered with the humor and camaraderie you've come to expect from the Traveling Groomers Podcast. Buckle up—it’s going to be an enlightening ride!

In this episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast, join hosts Mary Oquendo and Chris as they dive into the nuances of client communication in the grooming industry. This episode explores when and how to apologize—or not—when interacting with clients, often under complicated circumstances. Mary and Chris share insightful anecdotes, like when a misunderstanding with a client's pet's grooming led to unexpectedly positive outcomes, despite initial hiccups. They also highlight how effective communication can help manage expectations and prevent conflicts, offering listeners actionable strategies to improve their business interactions. Plus, they discuss the importance of detailed check-ins and thorough documentation to mitigate potential issues. Whether you're a mobile groomer, pet stylist, or just interested in the ins and outs of client relations, grab your travel mugs and hop aboard for some enlightening discussions!

Welcome aboard to another insightful episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! Join hosts Chris and Mary Oquendo as they welcome their charismatic guest, Jess Adorno, to chat about all things grooming industry-related and the life lessons they've learned along the way. In this episode, they discuss the challenges and triumphs of grooming with an injury, the artistry behind choosing the right equipment, and the importance of being authentic and kind in such a vibrant and connected community. They also dive into the behind-the-scenes dynamics of trade shows, sharing anecdotes that highlight the resilience and camaraderie within the grooming world. This episode is a celebration of genuine connections, incredible journeys, and the inspiring spirit that defines the grooming industry. Grab those travel mugs and climb aboard for a fun and heartfelt journey into the world of pet grooming. This conversation is one you won't want to miss!