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The K9PT Academy Podcast: Business lessons for canine rehab therapists
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Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
As we continue our series on planning for a successful 2026, today’s episode dives into one of the most underestimated skills in entrepreneurship: the ability to keep momentum going and take imperfect action. Inspired by recent discussions inside our Incubator Mastermind—and my own journey navigating newborn twins, a growing clinic, and everyday life—this episode breaks down why perfectionism slows us down, how momentum creates opportunities, and why “I get to” is the mindset shift that changes everything.
Whether you're solo or leading a team, whether you're overwhelmed or thriving, this episode will help you stay focused, stay grounded, and keep moving forward—one imperfect action at a time.
Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🚀 Momentum Matters More Than Perfection Success comes from consistently moving forward—not from waiting for the perfect plan. Small steps compound into big outcomes.
🔥 Imperfect Action Creates Progress Booking a Lunch & Learn before the presentation is ready… raising prices before you feel 100% ready… hiring help before your caseload is overflowing—these actions create clarity, confidence, and growth.
🧠 Stop Sabotaging Yourself with “What Ifs” Fear-based thinking (“What if clients leave?” “What if I fail?”) keeps you stuck. Taking action—even imperfect action—reveals the next right step.
👣 Your Past Success Is Built on Imperfect Action Hiring early, opening the clinic, launching programs—none of it happened with perfect timing. Your biggest breakthroughs came from leaps of faith, not flawless execution.
⏳ Time Freedom Comes from Letting Go of Perfect Especially during seasons like parenthood, flexibility and adaptability are essential. Progress becomes possible when you drop the idea of needing to “have it all together.”
💬 “I Get To” vs. “I Must” Mindset Reframing tasks as something you get to do (not have to do) transforms burdens into opportunities and keeps your mindset positive, grateful, and resilient.
🎯 Momentum Protects Your Mindset Being in motion keeps your confidence high, helps you avoid overwhelm, and prevents you from slipping back into fear or stagnation.
🌱 You’re Building a Business That Supports Your Life Imperfect action allows your business to evolve with your personal journey—not compete with it. You’re creating freedom, sustainability, and growth on your terms.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" is now available and you can order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
In this episode, we continue our theme of planning for 2026—but through a different lens: building a business that supports your life, your family, and your personal journey, not the other way around. I share reflections from the past few months of raising twins, lessons from my original “Walk of Freedom” back in 2017, and why freedom—mindset freedom, time freedom, and personal freedom—is one of the greatest gifts entrepreneurship can offer.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or trapped in the hamster wheel of business ownership, this episode will remind you that you deserve a business that gives you life—not one that drains it.
Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🧠 Build a Business That Fits Your Life Your business should be designed to support your personal journey, not consume it. Freedom comes from aligning your work with what matters most.
🕊️ Freedom Comes in Many Forms Mindset freedom, time freedom, and personal freedom are essential to creating a business—and life—that feels sustainable and fulfilling.
🔥 Your ‘Walk of Freedom’ Moment Matters That moment when you choose yourself is often the catalyst for long-term growth, confidence, and clarity in your entrepreneurial path.
🚀 Fear & Excitement Can Coexist Stepping into the unknown brings fear, doubt, and uncertainty—but also opportunity, pride, and possibility. Lean into all of it.
🔁 Avoid the Hamster Wheel Trap Working more is not the goal. Building systems, support, and structure that give you space to breathe is what creates true sustainability.
💛 Your Business Is a Vehicle, Not Your Identity A successful canine rehab business should help you achieve financial, personal, and emotional freedom—not tie you to endless hours and burnout.
🌱 You Deserve to Grow Into Your Best Year Ever Whether you're stuck, scaling, or rebuilding, you deserve a business that is meaningful, profitable, and supportive of your life’s purpose.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" is now available and you can order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
As we continue preparing for 2026, today’s episode dives into one of the most overlooked—and most powerful—skills a rehabpreneur can develop: finding the unasked question.Because too often we stay stuck, overwhelmed, or spinning our wheels not because we don’t have answers… but because we’re asking the wrong questions.
In this episode, we explore how to use Thinking Time, strategic reflection, and better question-framing to unlock clarity, reduce overwhelm, and move your business forward with confidence.
Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🧠 Strategic Thinking Creates Space Your biggest breakthroughs won’t happen in chaos—they happen during intentional Thinking Time, when you slow down enough to see patterns and opportunities.
🔍 Find the Real Problem Most business owners stay stuck because they’re solving the wrong question, not the real issue beneath the surface.
⛏️ Reframe Statements into Questions Replace “I’m not good at marketing” with “How might I learn X so I can achieve Y?” This opens clarity, solutions, and accountability.
🚀 Unasked Questions Expand Possibilities The right question doesn’t just simplify a challenge—it gives you multiple pathways forward and reveals smarter solutions.
💡 Problems Aren’t Bad—They’re Data Every challenge is solvable once you uncover the true question, making you more adaptable and resilient as your business grows.
📈 Thinking Time Prevents the Hamster Wheel Trap Without it, you’ll stay reactive, overwhelmed, and stagnant. With it, you can think ahead, plan better, and navigate 2026 strategically.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" is now available and you can order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
As we continue the theme of planning ahead for 2026, today’s episode goes deeper—beyond goal setting—to explore what happens when things don’t go according to plan. Because let’s face it: no matter how well we plan, life and business will throw curveballs. What matters most isn’t the setback—it’s how we respond to it.
In this episode, I share personal stories of when my plans derailed, the lessons learned from rebuilding stronger, and how to develop the resilient mindset every rehabpreneur needs to thrive through uncertainty.
Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
💪 Embrace the Rollercoaster Success isn’t linear. Every entrepreneur experiences ups and downs, and your ability to adapt will define how far you go.
🔥 Fail Forward See challenges as opportunities to grow, not reasons to quit. Life isn’t happening to you—it’s happening for you.
🧘♂️ Practice Self-Acceptance Stop chasing external validation. True confidence comes from believing in yourself—not in what others think of you.
🧭 Choose an Active Mindset You can’t control every event, but you can control your response. Taking ownership gives you power over your direction.
🫶 Detach Emotionally, Decide Logically Don’t take things personally—whether it’s client pushback, team issues, or rejection. Stay grounded in your values and vision.
💭 Growth Requires Reflection Mindset work is just as vital as marketing or systems. Without it, even the best strategy won’t create lasting success.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" is now available and you can order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
When most canine rehab business owners think of marketing, they think of one thing — getting new clients. But the truth is, marketing plays a far deeper and more powerful role in your business than you might realize.
In this episode, I share five ways that marketing becomes the foundation of everything you do — from raising your prices to building a team that truly aligns with your mission. As the economy and veterinary industry continue to shift, understanding this will be the difference between a business that survives and one that thrives. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
💰 Marketing Helps You Charge What You’re Worth You can’t just raise prices and hope clients agree — you need a clear message that communicates your value and connects emotionally with pet owners’ pain points and goals.
💌 Marketing Nurtures Relationships, Not Just Leads The goal of your first call isn’t just to book an eval — it’s to start a relationship. Use follow-up systems and automated email sequences to stay top-of-mind and build trust.
📅 Marketing Drives Better Client Commitment Your message sets the tone for how long clients stay. Clear communication about your process, plan of care, and long-term outcomes reduces drop-offs and increases follow-through.
🏠 Marketing Attracts the Right Type of Clients When your message highlights empowerment, education, and long-term results, you’ll naturally attract pet owners who value that — leading to better compliance and satisfaction.
👥 Marketing Helps You Recruit the Right Team A strong brand and story not only attract clients but also like-minded staff who share your mission and values — creating a stronger culture and community impact.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" is now available and you can order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
As we approach the end of the year, it’s easy to treat the last few months like the “final stretch” — to just survive and cross the finish line. But that mindset is exactly what causes so many business owners to start the next year already behind.
In this episode, I share lessons and strategies related to why it’s never too early to start planning for success in 2026. You’ll learn how to shift your focus from simply doing more to thinking better, by understanding the critical difference between tactical and strategic planning. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🧠 Strategic Planning = Thinking Time Take time to reflect, analyze, and map out your goals. Look at your numbers, lessons, and opportunities to create a clear blueprint for 2026.
📅 Tactical Planning = Doing Time Scheduling tasks and deadlines is important—but without a strategic foundation, you’ll stay busy without real progress.
🔍 Data Drives Direction Use key metrics like sessions, leads, and revenue to make informed decisions instead of running your business on gut feelings.
🚀 Stop Treating December as the Finish Line Most business owners coast through the end of the year. Instead, use this time to prepare, not recover, so you hit January ready to go.
🎯 Be Intentional, Not Reactionary The goal isn’t to just work harder—it’s to work smarter, align your actions with your long-term vision, and build a business that moves forward with purpose
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" is now available and you can order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
As the twins start childcare and TheK9PT completed its 8th anniversary, I’ve been reflecting on how the days are long, but the years are short—both in parenthood and business. Eight years have passed since I left my job to start TheK9PT, and while some days felt endless and overwhelming, looking back it’s incredible to see how much growth and transformation came from those moments.
In this episode, I share lessons learned from both parenthood and entrepreneurship about slowing down, building resiliency, asking for help, and letting go of ego—so you can build a business that supports your life, not consumes it. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🐢 Slow Down to Speed Up Growth isn’t about rushing through challenges—it’s about pausing, reflecting, and being intentional with your next move.
♟ Play Chess, Not Checkers Strategic thinking wins in the long run. Every move in business creates a ripple effect, so think long-term instead of reacting short-term.
💪 Build Your Resiliency Muscle Each setback or “no” you experience—whether from a client, a vet, or a team member—is an opportunity to expand your capacity and strengthen your courage.
👨👩👧👦 Ask for Help and Build Your Support System You can’t do it all. Surround yourself with people who will lift you up, whether at home or in your business, and don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
🧠 Let Go of Ego to Grow True leadership means trusting others, delegating responsibility, and realizing that not everything needs to go through you. Growth requires humility as much as ambition.
🌱 Embrace the Journey Both parenthood and business are filled with ups and downs, but it’s how we respond in the tough seasons that defines our success—and who we become in the process.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" comes out and you can pre-order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
Every business owner dreams of steady, predictable growth—but real success as a canine rehabpreneur doesn’t happen in a straight line. Growth comes in waves: the peaks feel amazing, and the valleys… well, that’s where the real work (and transformation) happens.
In this episode, Dr. Francisco dives into the concept of “Growth Valleys”—those tough, uncomfortable seasons when things slow down, stress increases, and doubt creeps in. But instead of running from them, we explore how these valleys are essential for long-term success and leadership growth. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
📈 Growth Is Not Linear Your business journey will always have peaks and valleys. Accepting this reality helps you respond proactively instead of reacting emotionally.
🧠 Valleys Create Learning Opportunities Each slowdown gives you a chance to rebuild, reset, and realign your business toward the next phase of growth.
💪 Growth Brings New Problems (and That’s Okay) Every new level will require new solutions—from managing leads and hiring to scaling your systems and team.
🚀 Be Proactive, Not Reactive When challenges hit, don’t panic. Anticipate and prepare for valleys so you can adapt quickly instead of burning out.
😌 Mindset Matters Most Seeing the valley as a “failure” creates anxiety and stagnation. Viewing it as a necessary step toward progress fuels resilience and creativity.
🌱 Experience Builds Confidence The longer you’re in business, the more you learn how to handle uncertainty. Each challenge becomes another brick in your foundation for future success.
🔥 Reframe the Valley as an Opportunity Instead of dreading downturns, embrace them as moments to grow as a leader, strengthen your systems, and prepare for your next peak.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" comes out and you can pre-order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
As entrepreneurs, caregivers, and rehabpreneurs, we often find ourselves juggling a thousand things at once — trying to care for everyone else while ignoring our own needs. This episode was inspired by a question that hit close to home: “What do you do when one baby needs you and the other is crying?” The truth? Sometimes you have to let one cry while you take care of what’s most urgent — and that lesson applies directly to business and life.
In this episode, I share why putting yourself first is not selfish, it’s essential — and how to design your business so you can thrive both personally and professionally. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
😮💨 Prioritize Yourself First Just like on a plane, you have to put your own mask on first — because you can’t help others if you’re running on empty. Taking care of yourself allows you to lead, serve, and create from a place of strength, not survival.
🏗️ Reevaluate Your Business Model Ask yourself: Is my business built to support my life — or the other way around? Build a model that works for you, not one copied from a past job or someone else’s system.
🕒 Adapt to Your Season of Life Your business needs will change as your life changes. Whether you’re raising kids, hiring staff, or shifting priorities, design your schedule and structure to match your current reality — not an outdated version of it.
📊 Know Your Numbers Data brings clarity and peace of mind. Knowing your numbers helps you make better, more objective decisions — and keeps you from chasing growth just to feed your ego. Remember: more isn’t always better.
💡 Success = Sustainability + Fulfillment Grinding harder isn’t the solution — building smarter is. The goal isn’t to have the biggest or busiest business, but one that allows you to live fully, feel fulfilled, and make an impact without burning out.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" comes out and you can pre-order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
Success in canine rehabilitation isn’t just about great clinical skills — it’s about building a business model that actually works. In this episode, I break down the 3 Rules of Business Success every rehabpreneur should live by: creating a profitable model, mastering marketing, and understanding what your market truly needs. Whether you’re just starting your business or looking to refine your operations, these three principles will help you build a business that is both sustainable and impactful. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
💰 Build a Profitable Model Run the numbers — if it doesn’t work on paper, it won’t work in real life. Ensure your pricing supports both profitability and sustainability, not just breaking even. Understand the flow: leads → evaluations → sessions → income, and adjust your model accordingly.
📣 Market Relentlessly Don’t be the best-kept secret in your community! Marketing is where success begins. If you don’t actively promote your services and tell your story, you’ll always be at the mercy of referrals or competitors. Create a clear, authentic message that shows pet owners why you’re different and worth the investment.
🧭 Solve Real Market Problems The market doesn’t just need more clinics — it needs better clinics that go beyond cookie-cutter care. Focus on true rehabilitation, innovation, and the customer experience. Be the clinician who leads, educates, and inspires trust, not just the one who follows what others are doing.
🚀 Innovate and Adapt Success belongs to the innovators — those who challenge the status quo and continually evolve. Stay authentic, experiment, and build a brand that reflects your values and passion for helping dogs live better lives.
🏆 Own Your Growth The best businesses are built with intention. Run your business, don’t let it run you. Track your metrics, stay curious, and commit to long-term growth that aligns with your life goals and personal values.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" comes out and you can pre-order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
Talking about pricing and selling often feels uncomfortable for canine rehab therapists—but it doesn’t have to be. Selling isn’t about being pushy; it’s about helping pet owners see the value you bring and guiding them toward the best decision for their dog. In this episode, I share key lessons from my recent Ethical Pricing training, including how to shift your mindset, communicate with confidence, and celebrate the wins that come from making an impact. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🤝 Reframe Selling as Helping – Selling is not about convincing—it’s about offering solutions. Reduce fear by building trust, confidence, and clarity, and make it easy for pet owners to say “yes.”
💬 Be Confident with Your Pricing – Your words and tone matter. Avoid soft or hesitant language (“maybe,” “probably”) and instead communicate with certainty and authority.
❤️ Emotion Over Logic – Clients make decisions emotionally first, not logically. Focus on connection, stories, and transformation rather than jargon or technical features.
📊 Track the Numbers – Data helps take the emotion out of business decisions. Monitoring leads, conversions, and follow-ups gives you clarity on what’s working.
🎉 Celebrate the Wins – Every new evaluation, package, or committed client is a chance to celebrate impact, not just revenue. This builds momentum and attracts more success.
The 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" comes out and you can pre-order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
Dealing with criticism is one of the hardest parts of being a business owner. Whether it comes from colleagues, family, or even our own inner voice, criticism can create self-doubt and hesitation. In this episode, we dive into how to handle outside negativity, protect your confidence, and strengthen your psychological immunity so you can keep moving forward and grow your business..
Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
💬 Criticism is unavoidable – No matter your success level, someone will always disagree or disapprove. Accept that it’s part of putting yourself out there.
🙉 Don’t feed the noise – Many critics thrive on attention. The best response is often no response at all—starve their negativity by refusing to engage.
🧠 Build psychological immunity – Just as we strengthen our bodies, we must strengthen our courage muscle to handle criticism without letting it derail us.
🚀 Mistakes are growth opportunities – Fear of judgment can hold you back. Instead, learn from mistakes and use them to become stronger and more confident.
💪 Confidence fuels impact – The more you invest in your personal growth and leadership, the more resilient you become, and your business will grow along with you.
Next month the 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" comes out and you can pre-order your copy using this link!
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.thek9pt.com/business-sherpa/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
In this episode, I reflect on life with newborn twins and how those lessons apply directly to running and growing a business. From learning how resilient we can be, to the power of asking for help, these insights are meant to remind you that both in parenting and in business, we are capable of far more than we think when we focus on adaptability, community, and clarity.
Next month the 3rd and new edition of Canine Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation" comes out and you can pre-order your copy using this link!
On Tuesday, September 23rd we are partnering with Online Pet Health for an exclusive training on "Ethical Pricing in Veterinary Rehab: Balancing Access, Excellence, and Profitability". It is FREE and you can click here to register!
Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
💪 Resiliency Builds Capacity Every challenge expands what you’re capable of—whether it’s sleepless nights with newborns or taking on extra responsibilities in your clinic. Each season builds adaptability and strength for the future.
🌱 Adaptability is Key Circumstances may look overwhelming at first, but as you lean in, you’ll be amazed at your ability to adjust and thrive in ways you couldn’t have imagined before.
🙋 Ask for Help Without Hesitation Just like parenting multiples, running a business is not meant to be done alone. Lean on your peers, staff, and community. People can’t support you if they don’t know what you need.
🤝 Accept Support When Offered When someone says, “Let me know if you need help,” take them at their word. Saying “yes” can open space, reduce stress, and strengthen your connections both in business and in life.
🔗 Parallel Lessons for Business Whether building partnerships, managing staff, or maintaining client relationships, the willingness to ask for and accept help creates sustainability and long-term growth.
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/assessments/2148543677
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
Marketing isn’t just about getting new patients on your schedule—it plays a much bigger role in building and sustaining a successful canine rehab business. In this episode, I break down five powerful ways marketing impacts your business beyond patient acquisition, helping you raise your rates, improve compliance, strengthen client relationships, and even attract the right team members. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🐾 Raise Your Rates with Confidence – Marketing helps you clearly communicate your value, so clients understand why your services are worth more.
📞 Nurture Leads After Intake Calls – A strong follow-up system and relationship-based messaging increase conversions even if clients don’t book right away.
🩺 Convert Evaluations into Full Plans of Care – Clear marketing and education reduce drop-offs, encouraging clients to commit to the long-term programs their pets need.
🏋️ Boost Compliance with Home Programs – By attracting the right clients who value education and long-term solutions, marketing improves follow-through on home exercises.
👩⚕️ Attract Aligned Team Members – Your marketing and online presence also help recruit staff who share your mission and values, strengthening your clinic culture.
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/assessments/2148543677
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
Back in November of 2024 I hosted a live training for our Canine Rehabpreneur community about making the most our of 2025, especially given the uncertainties some of us were facing as the year started. It is now September 2025, and I thought this was a great training to share with you all as one of the most empowering things about being a business owner is that you control how you run your business—regardless of politics or the economy. In this episode, I share 5 key strategies that will help you take your canine rehab business, no matter what external circumstances come your way. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
💬 Focus on Relationships: Build trust from the very first intake call—make conversations about the client and their pet, not just your services or prices.
📈 Predictable Lead Generation: Don’t rely solely on word-of-mouth or veterinary referrals—create systems (like Google, both paid & organic) that you can count on month after month.
📚 Educate and Inform: Provide free, valuable content through blogs, social media, newsletters, or workshops so potential clients see your value even before they book.
🎯 Invest in Marketing: Marketing is the fuel of your business. Aim to allocate around 5% of desired revenue to marketing and never cut it when times get tough.
✨ Sell Confidence and Clarity: People are still spending money—even in uncertain times—but they need clarity on how you can help and confidence that you’re the right choice.
Are you ready to join the Business Sherpa and work directly with me to help you grow and scale a profitable and sustainable canine rehab business? Then just follow this link to fill our our Business Sherpa Inquiry form and we will be in touch: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/assessments/2148543677
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
Selling in healthcare often feels uncomfortable, but the truth is that selling is about providing value and helping clients make the best decision for themselves and their pets. In this episode, I break down the Top 5 Reasons why canine rehabpreneurs struggle to raise their rates and charge what they’re worth, and how shifting your mindset and processes can change everything. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
🎓 Clinical skills ≠ business success: Being the most skilled therapist won’t matter if clients don’t stick around. Balance clinical expertise with sales skills to truly make an impact.
📣 Positioning & preeminence: Your message and reputation should make clients want to choose YOU before they even call. Build authority and trust through effective marketing.
📞 First call matters: The intake call isn’t about rattling off prices — it’s about listening, connecting, and showing empathy. This is where trust begins.
💌 Nurturing systems are vital: Many clients won’t book right away. Without follow-up and relationship-building, opportunities slip away. Stay consistent and personal in your outreach.
🩺 Evaluations aren’t the finish line: An evaluation is your chance to speak their language, explain clearly, and build confidence so clients commit to the full plan of care.
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
In this episode, we share the interview Dr Francisco did with Dr Kaitlyn Lackey for the Making Strides for Animal Chiropractic podcast. Dr Francisco opens up about the early struggles of launching his business from scratch, the mental shift required to embrace sales as service, and how a deeper understanding of client relationships helped him scale his practice and coach others to do the same. If you’re a rehabpreneur trying to grow your business, find your niche, or gain confidence in marketing and selling your services — this is an episode you don’t want to miss! Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
You don’t have to figure it out alone: Dr Francisco talks about the lack of business mentorship in the animal rehab field when he started and why he’s committed to coaching others today.
You are not selling — you're serving: Learning to view selling as a form of helping, not pushing, is a key mindset shift to succeed.
Marketing is about connection, not perfection: How authenticity and consistency in your message resonate more than trying to “sound professional.”
Your fees reflect your value and sustainability: Undercharging leads to burnout. Dr Francisco discusses how changing his money mindset helped him raise his rates while improving the client experience.
Focus on predictable lead generation: Relying solely on vet referrals is not scalable. Dr Francisco emphasizes building your own marketing system — especially using Google and direct-to-consumer education.
The power of community and mentorship: Dr Francisco shares how coaching others has become just as rewarding as treating patients, and why he believes community is key to lasting success.
Checkout and follow more from Dr Kaitlyn Lackey on Making Strides for Animal Chiropractic → https://www.makingstridesforanimalchiropractic.com/
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
In this episode, I reflect on the exact steps I would take if I were launching a brand-new canine rehabilitation business from scratch. After years of building TheK9PT and mentoring other canine rehabpreneurs, I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and what truly accelerates growth. This episode is your blueprint—whether you're just starting or looking to restructure your existing business for more freedom, impact, and sustainability. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
💰 Raise your fees from the start → Learn how to determine your rates using our Fee Calculator and overcome the mindset blocks that keep you undercharging.
🔁 Build a predictable lead generation system → Stop relying solely on word-of-mouth or vet referrals. Discover how direct-to-consumer marketing (especially through Google Ads and an optimized website) can drive consistent leads.
🧭 Avoid “hustle marketing” and shiny object distractions → Focus on sustainable marketing systems rather than short-term spikes or trends.
🧠 Seek mentorship from someone who knows our field → The game changes when you’re supported by someone who understands the unique challenges of canine rehab business ownership.
🚀 Success leaves clues → Many of our students are achieving in 6–9 months what took me 18 months because they’re following this exact framework.
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
In this episode, I’m sharing the full story behind how I ditched the referral trap and instead turned Google into a predictable and sustainable lead-generation machine for TheK9PT — starting with no patients, no referrals, and no local connections. I walk through the biggest marketing challenge I faced when launching my business, how I shifted from relying on veterinary referrals to direct-to-consumer marketing, and what key strategies actually worked to generate consistent new clients. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, this episode is packed with lessons that can help you build marketing systems that work for you — even when you're not working. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
Start with the challenge, not the tactic: I had no referrals, no clinic, and no marketing experience — which is why I had to get creative and find a better way.
Veterinary referrals aren’t enough: Especially when you’re new or not a vet — it’s time to bypass the gatekeeper and speak directly to pet owners.
Direct-to-consumer marketing changes the game: Educating and connecting with pet owners early in their journey builds trust before they ever contact you.
Google My Business is a free powerhouse: Consistently updating reviews and photos makes a huge difference in visibility and credibility.
Your website is more than a brochure: It should tell a clear story, guide the visitor to take action, and reflect why you’re different — not just list services.
Google Ads work if your systems are ready: Don’t pour money into ads until you’ve optimized your website and lead nurturing systems — otherwise, it’s just noise.
Sustainable growth requires systems: You don’t need to be a marketing expert, but you do need predictable processes that run without you doing everything yourself.
Want to dive deeper? Download our FREE guide on how to turn on your Google machine and stop relying on vet referrals → https://www.k9ptacademy.com/google-machine
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
...
Thank you so much for listening to this episode and if you found this content valuable here are some additional ways we can help each other:
1) Go to www.k9ptacademy.com for more resources on business ownership, including our free Fee Calculator and Marketing Done Easy worksheet
2) Send us your question or subscribe to our weekly newsletter by emailing us at hello@k9ptacademy.com
3) Share this episode with a colleague who might also find it helpful :-)
4) Leave us a 5-star review so we can expand our reach and help more folks
Welcome to The K9PT Academy podcast, the only podcast in veterinary rehabilitation & physical therapy that focuses on helping business owners and entrepreneurs build and scale a profitable and successful canine rehabilitation business!
In this episode, we dive into a vital topic that often feels overwhelming for many canine rehab business owners — understanding your business metrics and financial structure. Dr Francisco shares the exact framework he uses (and teaches) to break down financials, simplify budgeting, and understand profitability without getting lost in the weeds. Whether you're solo and mobile or run a larger facility with a team, these insights will help you feel more confident navigating the numbers side of your business. Listen to the full episode as we discuss:
Different business models = different metrics: Profit margins and financial expectations will vary greatly depending on whether you're a solo mobile provider or running a larger clinic with staff and overhead.
Four main expense categories to track: Break down your budget into overhead, payroll, administrative/operational, and marketing to simplify tracking and avoid overwhelm.
Ideal budget allocation framework: Aim for 10% overhead, 50–55% payroll, 15–20% admin, and 5–10% marketing to maintain a healthy 20% profit margin.
Include yourself in the numbers: Don’t forget to calculate your owner salary in payroll and understand if you're measuring profit before or after owner compensation and debt payments.
Payroll is your biggest investment: Especially as you grow — plan for sustainable clinician and admin compensation while keeping overall costs in check.
Marketing fuels the business: Invest in consistent, strategic marketing to grow sustainably — and expect higher spend early on or during growth phases.
Profit is not a bad word: Profit allows your business to sustain, grow, and serve you and your community better — don’t be afraid to make money.
Are you interested in learning more about our K9Rehab Marketing platform? That is the only CRM and marketing software available in the market for canine rehab therapists, and it has been an integral component for our business and for dozens of our clients! Just follow the link for more info: https://k9rehabmarketing.com/
Book a FREE strategy call: https://calendly.com/thek9pt/strategy-call
Join our Canine Rehabpreneur Community: www.facebook.com/groups/k9rehabpreneur/
Download our fee calculator and training: https://thek9pt.mykajabi.com/Fee-calculator
Download our 'marketing done easy' worksheet and training: https://www.k9ptacademy.com/marketing-done-easy
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