Your pet business, Your way

Did you come into the New Year feeling all fired up and filled with energy about your pet business and what was going to happen in 2026?Then, as we were flung into wars, political upheaval, economic uncertainty, did it feel like you skidded to a bit of a halt?If you’re nodding along, that’s ok, it’s totally normal to feel like this.There’s a lot going on in the world right now. And when you’re running your own business, all of that takes it out of you in a way a regular paycheck never would.Consumer confidence is down and people feel less confident spending money on things that aren’t absolutely necessary.So it can be tempting and totally natural to feel despondent and think: “What’s the point? Nobody wants to hear from me. Everything is rubbish.”This blog and podcast episode is about picking yourself up and getting back on the bike, and doing the things you need to do to keep moving forward.You can listen in on the player link below or read the key points as a blog post.I also cover how my Pet Business Planner can help you. At the time of publication – 31st March 2026 – I did have some copies remaining.You can order one here (or pre-order for 2027 if you’re listening or reading in the future. (https://rachelspencer.co.uk/product/pet-business-content-planner/)Topics and timings in this episode: 0.20 - What to expect from this episode.0.46 - How you can have a reset at any time of the year.1.30 - The upheaval that’s going on in the world at the moment.2.20 - Consumer confidence dropping during times of uncertainty.3.24 - Reflecting on the first quarter of the year.3.54 - How to figure out if you’ve been talking about your work enough.5.24 - Case study - Kim from Leo, Charley and Me6.19 - Working out who your dream customer is.6.40 - Why you can have a reset whenever you like.8.31 - What I’m doing to boost bookings in my cottage business.9.18 - Why saying no is important too.9.55 - Practical steps on how to do a reset10.25 - Reflecting on what’s working and doing more of it.11.30 - Working out what you want to do less of.12.36 - Deciding on the activities that are the most valuable when it comes to how you spend your time.14.17 - The magnifying glass of misery.14.45 - Deciding on the important things you need to talk about and using the awareness days.16.03 - The reason I created a planner to support you with all of the above.17.03 - Taking what I learned as a journalist to help you come up with ideas.18.21 - How the Words for When exercises work.20.40 - Using the days to pitch to the press.22.04 - Why PR is important in the world we’re in now with AI.23.45 - How to get a copy of the planner.Links mentioned in this episode:Get a copy of the pet business planner: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/shop/Download my free social media calendar: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/calendarRead the Nielsen report on Consumer Confidence: https://nielseniq.com/global/en/news-center/2026/consumer-confidence-down-three-points-in-february/Listen to the Kate Toon podcast on AI and digital marketing: https://therecipeforseosuccess.com/final-guest-how-marketing-and-seo-have-evolved-in-11-years-with-rand-fishkin/Further reading/listening:How Kim from Leo Charley and Me boosted her visibility The confidence experiment and how to feel more brave as a pet professional Why I am an accredited pet business coachHow to navigate stop start periods in your business How to use the Pet Business Content PlannerShould you buy my Pet Business Content Planner

When Kerry Whitney split up with her boyfriend, lost her dad and had to move back home to her mum's, it led to her starting her dream business.It was back in 2015, and she'd just started an Instagram account for her Pug Frank, and started making him fun bow ties as a way of coping with her grief and the upheaval she'd experienced.Things grew, she started sending out her products to other dog owners, and decided to make it into a business.Then she added in some sweary bow ties to stand out, and it took off.From viral posts with the C-bomb, being featured in the Daily Sport dressed as a giant penis, getting her products in Pets At Home, experiencing burnout and taking a year for herself and coping with trolls, Kerry has seen it, done it and got the Dogs Not Sprogs t-shirt.We talk about so much here - there's a bit of oversharing from me, and Kerry announces her dream new range, sweary harnesses which will be on sale from March 2026.Kerry is a friend who I value so much, she's supported me through a lot, and I'm so pleased to share this podcast. I hope you love what she has to say.Topics and timings:0.20 - Episode overview.1.50 - Episode sponsor - pet business planner.3.16 - Kerry introduction.4.35 - What Kerry did before Franky’s Bowtique.5.31 - Getting her first Pug Frank and going on Instagram.7.00 - Losing her dad and beginning making bowties as a way of managing her grief.9.17 - Growing on Instagram, gifting her products and building her business.10.14 - Moving back home after her relationship broke down and back to her mums.13.35 - Putting out her first sweary bowties and going from the F bomb to the C bomb.17.45 - Growing her community and brand reps and having raving fans!19.48 - The most bonkers stuff Kerry has done to get her business and products out there.23.11 - Appearing in the Daily Sport dressed as a giant penis.24.17 - Pitching to UK retailers and getting her products in Pets At Home.28.23 - What it’s like to go viral.31.10 - What it’s like to get nasty comments and how Kerry turns them into ‘content gold.’33.08 - What it’s like behind the scenes when orders go crazy from viral posts.35.16 - What happened when Gemma Atkinson bought a bandana for her dog.36.45 - How Kerry totally ignores all social media advice and is herself.38.05 - Kerry’s advice to anyone who is holding back on social media and why the shouldn’t tone themselves down.38.53 - No-one is safe from the savagery of social media.40.47 - Not being afraid to fail publicly.42.03 - Kerry’s experience of burnout and taking a year out.46.16 - Thoughts on resilience and having a strong business that could continue when Kerry felt low.47.17 - Copycats and how they fire you up to be stronger.52.29 - Keeping going and standing out.54.02 - Kerry’s health transformation and how that’s impacted on her business.58.13 - Getting a part time job and how that’s helped her with her business and feeling more positive.1.01.02 - My own emotionally fragile time and what I needed to do to pick myself up.1.05.14 - How Kerry stops herself comparing to others and self care, Mel Robbins and sunlight first thing!1.06.54 - Kerry’s new dog harness range.1.08.15 - How the money for the harness range came from an insurance policy from her late father.1.14.23 - What her dad would think and how good things can come from challenging times and loss.1.17.12 - How to find out more about Kerry.Links mentioned in this episode:Pet business content planner: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/product/pet-business-content-planner/Visit Kerry's website: https://frankysbowtique.com/Follow Frank and Brenda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frankandbrendaruletheworld/Follow Franky's Bowtique on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frankysbowtique_ltd/Follow Franky's Bowtique on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@frankysbowtiqueFranky's Bowtique on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FrankypantspetboutiqueFurther listening/readingShould you buy my pet business content planner?How to use the pet business content plannerDealing with copycats with Debbie Humphreys from Redhound for DogsPutting your personality into your marketing with Alex McCann from AltrinchamHQStuff the social media rules and do things your way with Colette AdwinCreating a business that works for you with Jane ArdernHow to create a pet business social media calendar

Confidence is an area that comes up as a challenge with the pet business owners I work with over and over again.When you're running a business on your own, you're already doing really brave things and taken the big risks.Yet, so often, things will make us question ourselves.I ran a workshop and a 'confidence experiment' in my membership to look at this, in particular asking people to ask themselves, 'Why do I feel confident doing some things but not others?'And more importantly, 'What can I do about it?'What came out of both was so interesting, and there was so much helpful and supportive advice shared, so I wanted to put together a podcast and blog.Key topics and timings:0.20: Episode overview.0.50: What is confidence and why I chose it as the theme for March in Pets Get Visible.2.01: Why I felt wobbly about covering this topic.3.29: What confidence means to different people.4.14: Why you don’t have to feel confident to do the brave thing.4.37: The areas where pet pros would love to feel more confident.5.06: Where people feel at ease with pet pro examples.7.53: Taking notice of where you feel confident and what’s different.9.24: The reasons that lie underneath us lacking in confidence.10.51: How HALT works and how being hungry, angry, lonely, tired and hormonal impacts on confidence.11.43: Acceptance and commitment theory and how this applies to confidence.13.29: Heather’s story and how she became more confident on video.18.33: What would be in your recipe for confidence?19.11: Examples of what people have in their recipe for confidence.23.39: Brave examples from the community.26.01: Acceptance and commitment theory.27.34: My Pets Get Visible membership and Pet Business Content Planner and work with me options.Episode sponsor: Pets Get Visible membershipWe're doing more experiments like this - breaking down the things that get in the way of visibility and making them manageable for you.You'll get access to the workshops, the resources, the community, and most importantly, the reassurance that you're not the only one feeling this way. Be around other pet business owners who get it, who are doing brave things, who are cheering each other on.Head here to find out more about the membership: www.rachelspencer.co.uk/pets-get-visibleFurther reading and listening:Is my Pets Get Visible membership right for you? Should you buy my Pet Business Content Planner?How to feel more confident as a writer with Rikki SullivanWhy I am an accredited pet business coachThe rollercoaster of running your own businessThe importance of looking back to see how far you've come What kind of pet business coach is right for you? Choosing the right pet business membership

Helen Wainwright is co-founder of the Dog Trainer School, a supportive online community for professional dog trainers that she runs alongside her partner Lee.Before working with dogs, Helen spent nearly a decade as a product tester and journalist at Good Housekeeping magazine, and later worked in community development.Going from glossy mags to working as a dog trainer meant taking a huge chance, but you'll hear in this chat how it turned out to be exactly the right preparation for what she does now.We talk about how the Dog Trainer School came to be, the brilliant new Dog Trainer School Approved scheme, and what Helen has learned about running a business on your own terms without burning out in the process.We also get into the stuff that doesn't always get talked about - the pressure to prove yourself, the hustle culture that follows dog trainers around on social media, what enough actually looks like.Key topics and timings in this episode:0.20: Episode overview.0.50: Sponsor message – 2026 pet business content planner.2.20: Helen introduces herself and the Dog Trainer School.3.09: Why the Dog Trainer School exists — the gap that nobody was filling after qualification.4.04: Putting together support for trainers from class plans to Canva and SOP documents.6.51: How Helen and Lee bring in their real-life experience and reassurance into the Dog Trainer School as they're still out there training dogs.8.44: Imposter syndrome in the dog training industry and why it's so common.10.14: Helen's background as a product tester and journalist at Good Housekeeping magazine and the Good Housekeeping Institute.11.32: Being burnt out and going from community development to co-founding the Dog Trainer School, and the boss who believed in her.12.36: What Helen learned in the Good Housekeeping Institute and behind the scenes on life there testing everythings from wellies to washing machines.15.46: The Dog Trainer School Approved scheme — how it works, what brands get, and why it matters.16.50: Testing out the ideas at PATS in 2025 and getting her first brands on board.17.24: How the testing works and why 30 dog trainers testing a product gives brands something genuinely valuable.19.30: The value in the validation and what's involved if you do work with TDTS.22.42: The full circle goal: getting the logo on packaging so dog owners can find ethical trainers.27.15: Standing out in a busy market and why Helen's biggest advice is to stop watching what everyone else is doing.30.19: The enoughness conversation — what success actually looks like when you work for yourself.32.10: Why you don't need to have a high ticket offer and to do what works for you.35.04: The pressure dog trainers face from family and friends who don't take it seriously as a career.38.18: The move towards taking pressure off yourself and asking 'am I happy.' 41.28: Finding a way of creating content that is fun and relatable.42.58: Working with your partner and finding the balance.44.51: Why Helen goes to the gym every day and won't book meetings over it.48.37: The coaching relationship Helen walked away from in December, and trusting your gut.50.47: Helen's recent example of staying true to what the Dog Trainer School is actually for.53.48: Being mindful of the advice you're consuming as a business owner.57.16: The importance of ensuring her clients feel like they're not a number.58.18: What's next: helping dog trainers feel more confident in the practical side of their work.59.28: Acceptance and commitment — doing the scary thing anyway.1.01.09: How to find Helen and the Dog Trainer School.Links mentioned in this episode: Website: www.thedogtrainerschool.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedogtrainerschool/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedogtrainerschoolDog Trainer School Approved scheme: https://thedogtrainerschool.co.uk/tdts-recommendedRelated postsCreating content for your clients, not other pet pros Jane Ardern on running a dog training business where you put yourself firstSasha Louise Smith on using your strengths to build a business you loveThe rollercoaster of running your own pet businessHow to find your voice in your pet business with Rikki SullivanHow to use the pet business content plannerWhy the right pet business community mattersHow to create a social media calendar for your pet businessShould you buy my pet business content planner?

Each year, Theo Paphitis hosts the Small Business Sunday winner’s event to celebrate small businesses and give them a boost.It’s a brilliantly inspiring day where Theo and a line-up of speakers share lessons, practical advice, and lots and lots of encouragement.You come away feeling enthused and supported, because you’re reminded why you started, and you’re in a room full of people who get it.This year marked 15 years of Small Business Sunday (SBS) and the theme of the day was ‘Resilience Rocks.’In this blog post and podcast episode, I’m sharing my 15 lessons from the day from Theo, Katie Piper who did the fireside chat, from the small business panel, and from Kypros Kyprianou, CEO of the Theo Paphitis Retail Group, and the host of the SBS conference.Katie Piper is a British author, presenter and charity founder of The Katie Piper Foundation who survived a horrific acid attack in 2008 that completely changed her life.After extensive surgery, she spoke publicly about what had happened to her, sharing her story in a Channel 4 documentary and later in bestselling books.She went on to set up the Katie Piper Foundation, which supports burns survivors with specialist rehabilitation and emotional support, in St Helen’s, Merseyside.Katie was the perfect person to talk about resilience, as someone who has turned something devastating into something that now helps thousands of other people rebuild their lives.Topics and timings:0.20 - Episode outline.1.55 - Sponsor message - 2026 planner.3.02 - What is the SBS conference?4.12 - The benefits of being in the SBS community.5.16 - 15 years of SBS and the theme, resilience and what that means.7.29 - About my in person event the day before.11.05 - Lesson 1 - business is lonely.11.56 - Lesson 2 - things will go wrong12.31 - Lesson 3 - learn from your mistakes12.52 - Lesson 4 - don't do a half tackle13.43 - Lesson 5 - keep talking about your business14.56 - Lesson 6 - protect your energy16.14 - Lesson 7 - your business is part of who you are17.31 - Lesson 8 - believe in yourself18.55 - Lesson 9 - keep your pity party short20.11 - Lesson 10 - move from why me to what now?24.03 - Lesson 11 - use pain, don't let it use you24.48 - Lesson 12 - no isn't a reflection on you28.07 - Lesson 13 - your why will carry you29.08 - Lesson 14 - build something bigger than you30.35 - Lesson 15 - confidence is 'I'll be fine if they don't like me.'32.35 - SBS stats33.45 - what to do if you want to be a SBS winner.Links mentioned:Jenna Wilson (Little Dreams)Little Dreams Consulting is the first UK franchise of baby and child sleep consultants, with eight territories.Hanan Tantush (Intotum)Intotum garments now ship to 25 countries, Hanan has won over 15 awards, and grown her community to over 40,000 people.Sophia Lorimer (Fine Tuned Wardrobe)Fine Tuned Wardrobe is a sustainable styling service, and has been running for six years, helping women build confidence and enter rooms of change.Further reading: How winning Theo Paphitis Small Business Sunday can help your pet businessTheo Paphitis launches SBS InvestShould you buy my pet business content planner Takeaway from SBS 2025Seven lessons from SBS 202410 reasons to be an award-winning pet businessThe rollercoaster of running a small businessHow to choose the right pet business membershipWhy community matters for you and your pet business

Rikki Sullivan is The Canine Copywriter - a specialist dog copywriter and marketing strategist who helps pet professionals put themselves out there without wrecking their nervous system.In this episode, we talk about confidence, visibility, and how to become a more confident writer because to grow your business, people need to be able to find you.Rikki went from working in the corporate world to setting up as a dog walker, then did a dog first aid course that completely changed the direction of her life.Rikki started by blogging to articulate how she worked and what she did for the dogs in her care and this led to an obsession with SEO and building a business helping others find their voice.We talk about falling for magic formulas, the pressure to promise results you can’t categorically guarantee, and why marketing doesn’t have to be manipulative or pushy to work.Rikki explains why she chooses to market gently to protect her nervous system, and how sensitive, empathetic pet professionals can build confidence without making themselves do things that don’t feel right.She also shares client stories - including one who grew to 5,500 website visits a month through SEO blogging - and why there isn’t just one way to grow your business.Plus, her Rambling Method, which is all about giving yourself space to think, write, and explore your ideas before trying to be concise.And using AI as a thinking partner without losing your you-ness, and why in a world full of generated content, sharing your life and your experiences matters more than ever.Key topics and timings: 0.20 - Episode overview. 1.24 - Sponsor message - 2026 pet business content planner.2.34 - How Rikki went from corporate to dog walker to specialist dog copywriter.3.49 - The dog first aid course that totally changed her life when Rikki learned about dog body language. 4.46 - Why Rikki started blogging, fell down a rabbit hole and how it helped her own business. 6.56 - Why we need to step away from listening to the mistakes we’re being told we’re making and be ourselves.9.07 - Why none of us are immune to falling for ‘easy ways,’ and magic formulas.10.37 - How Rachel ended up spending a fortune on a course during a wobbly time in her business.13.46 - Matching your values with your marketing activity.14.59 - Why Rikki would rather market more gently for the sake of her nervous system.17.26 - The challenge around being visible when you’re sensitive.18.23 - My random viral video.21.12 - Why trying to go viral won’t work because it’s often down to creating less perfect and practicing your skills.24.17 - Finding your own way to market and be out there and reach people.25.07 - Client example - Becki from East Coast Dog Training and how she used SEO blogging to have 5,500 visits to her website each month.27.02 - Client example - Rikki’s client who runs live events and uses ads to grow her audience and business.28.52 - Attraction-based marketing and ignoring the demands of the algorithms.30.52 - Why I used to try to persuade people that my approach was right.31.56 - Why we are so convinced we need to make life hard for ourselves.34.12 - Finding people who will appreciate the way you help them to the outcome they’re looking for.35.48 - Rikki's thoughts on making promises you don't categorically know you can keep. 38.35 - Trusting your gut.39.23 - The easiest business to run is the one that solves a problem or desire from something you’ve experienced.40.44 - Starting out with storytelling and taking baby steps.41.53 - Why pushing through the uncomfortable part will help you build your confidence.44.21 - The Rambling Method and giving yourself space to say what you want to share, and be more you in your content.49.09 - Using AI as a thinking and writing partner.51.42 - Getting your ‘you-ness’ into AI and then using it to help you write and get comfortable with writing.54.01 - The importance of being you in your content to build a connection and stand out from the pattern of AI.56.27 - The dog trainer who posts about crochet and shows the human side.58.12 - Using Rikki’s journal as a content tool and a bank of stories and thoughts.59.39 - Writing to help you figure things out.1.02.02 - Free writing and building your confidence and skills as a writer.1.06.57 - Finding your titles, headlines, and intros at the end. 1.08.27 - Ways to connect with Rikki, find out about her 20-minute marketing method, and journal.1.09.15 - Ways to work with Rikki.1.10.42 - What’s next for Rikki and why she’s taking the pressure off. Find out more about Rikki:Visit her website: www.thecaninecopywriter.co.ukFollow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/thecaninecopywriterConnect on Instagram: www.instagram.com/thecaninecopywriterLearn more on Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/rikki-sullivan-88b76925The 20 Minute Marketing Method: https://www.underdogsunleashed.co.uk/offers/aooT2sCB/checkoutThe Journal: https://mybook.to/ramblejournalRelated postsHow to find your voice in your pet business with Rikki SullivanHow to use the pet business content plannerA simple content plan to cover SEO, social media and email marketingHow to create a social media calendar for your pet businessHow to start a pet business blogHow to create a repeatable content planShould you buy my pet business content planner?

Do you need to write a press release about your pet business?You're in the right place!This episode will cover everything you need to know when it comes to creating a press release for your pet business.But what I’m really keen to stress is that there is more to landing press coverage than writing a press release.What journalists want are stories, and by the end of this episode, you’ll have a sense of how to go about finding them in your pet business, plus what you can do if you’d like some support.Key topics and timings in this episode:0.20 - Introduction to the podcast and topic.0.46 - Why I've re-recorded this episode from 2020.1.38 - My background and how this will help you with your press release.4.28 - Why journalists aren't bothered about press releases and what they really want instead.4.57 - What to expect from this episode.5.19 - Definition of a press release.5.54 - Why you as a business owner are capable of writing one yourself.6.55 - Why there's never been an easier time to connect with the press.7.44 - Why have a press release and how being in the press gives third party validation.9.20 - When you might need a press release.10.53 - Examples of what makes a story from Zoe, Rachel and Sarah.16.33 - Story idea prompts for if you're stuck for ideas.17.40 - How to write your press release.19.00 - Why you want your story to be click-baity.22.59 - What else you need to include with your press release.25.27 - What you shouldn't do with your press release.28.01 - Options for working together if you'd like support.28.45 - How press coverage has helped my dog friendly business go from ghost town to fully booked.29.36 - What to expect from the membership.31.18 - How my 1-1 calls work.Background on the host: If you’re new to the podcast and you’ve clicked on this episode because you need to write a press release, here’s a little background about me.I’m a journalist and have been since 1999, a whopping 25 years ago, writing for local, regional, and national newspapers.In 2006 I went freelance, and since then, I have continued to work for national titles, women's magazines, and websites. I found myself writing about the pet industry after adopting my friend's dog Daisy in 2009, and this led me to start my own pet blog.My blog, www.thepawpost.co.uk, appeared in the top 10 UK pet blogs, and businesses and brands would approach me about being on it, and when they found out I was a journalist, they asked for help in landing press coverage.This led to me writing a book, 'Publicity Tips for Pet Businesses,' starting a Facebook group, working one-to-one with people, starting an online course, this podcast, then a membership.Since 2019, I’ve helped over 1000 pet business owners appear in newspapers, magazines, radio, TV, including BBC Breakfast, websites, podcasts, and more.Further reading or listening if you enjoyed this episode: Is my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?How to prepare for a radio interview with Anna WebbWhat happens on a Get Your Pet Business in the Press 1-1Dos and Don't when dealing with journalistsIn the spotlight with Sarah Jones from My Anxious DogIn the spotlight with Niki French and what happens when you go viralHow to get your pet business in the press in five simple stepsDo I need to use a Press Release Distribution Service?How to find the right journalist to contact with my press release

Is getting some press coverage something you’d love to achieve for your pet business?You might see other people in the industry getting brilliant media coverage and wonder ‘how do they do it?’Well, the good news is you don’t need a huge budget and a fancy PR company to appear in the media and make sure your business is seen.In this podcast episode I’m sharing five simple steps you can follow to if you’d like to Get Your Pet Business in the Press.There’s also a PDF you can download here that takes you through each step, with space for notes and ideas and additional resources.Key topics and timings in this episode:0.30 - Introduction to the episode and how to get the PDF download which walks you through each step.2.00 - Why you don’t need a PR company or agency to get in the press.3.13 - How getting in the press can help you grow your pet business.5.22 - The difference in the number of people you can reach through media coverage versus social media.6.26 - Case study Zoe Willingham.7.15. - Step one - consider who you want to reach.9.52 - Step two - think about where you would like to be featured.13.27 - Step three - come up with a story idea.20.10 - Step four - find the right person to pitch to - the one who is likely to be interested in what you have to say.23.41 - Step five - write your pitch.25.22 - Be prepared to have the journalist call as soon as you send your pitch.Links mentioned in this episode:Download the Five Steps PDFRead How to prepare for an interview in ten simple stepsHow to prepare for an interview in ten simple stepsIs my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?How to write a press release for your pet businessHow to find journalists contact detailsWhat’s the difference between a pitch and a press releaseThree moments you can use as story ideas

Would you love to feel calm and in control of your content?Does it sometimes feel like you're constantly scrambling for ideas, or vanishing off social media when life gets busy?The good news is, you don’t need to chase trends or create from scratch every single day.You can have a plan that fits around you and your life.In this podcast episode, I'm sharing how repeatable content tasks - things you can post every week or every month - can help you stay consistent, visible, and connected to your audience without feeling overwhelmed or stuck.You'll learn what repeatable content is (and what it isn't), how it helps with confidence and consistency, and why it builds trust and leads to more sales.Plus I share some behind the scenes about the posts I use each week and month, and how you can create your own content rhythm using my free calendar and wall planner.This episode is part of the January 2026 planning series and includes a chance to win a three-night stay at Sunnyside Cottage or a year in the Pets Get Visible membership if you grab a planner before January 28th.Key topics and timings: 1.05 - How to access your free social media calendar and wall planner.2.05 - Why self-promotion feels so hard.3.14 - How repeatable tasks are just for you and can't be copied.4.30 - Why being consistent helps and keeping in touch regularly and will put you way ahead of marketing gurus.6.44 - What's in the calendar.7.00 - Why repeatable content works, why we need to keep talking about our offers and how customers need so many more touchpoints now.8.30 - The repeatable tasks I have in my business.12.45 - What happens when you download the calendar and how you can use it.14.00 - Putting together your repeatable plan.16.03 - How repeatable content helps make your life easier.18.30 - How to download the calendar.20.42 - Ways to access more support in Pets Get Visible and what's involved.23.12 - Episode summary and how to get in touch.Links mentioned in this episode:Download the social media calendar: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/calendar/Check out the Pet Business Content Planner: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/shop/Further listening/reading:Alex McCann on putting your personality into your contentMaking planning a habit in your pet businessCreating habits you can stick toShould you buy my pet business content plannerHow to use the pet business content plannerIs my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?

Would you love to become the kind of person who plans?Are you fed up of feeling like you have so much going on that you can't keep up, and like the idea of a more calm way of working?The good news is that you don't need to have a complete personality overhaul to become more organised.It's something you can build on one step at a time.In this podcast episode you'll learn why planning is helpful along with some stats to support the impact it has on your performance.Plus pet business examples on ways they plan to support their work and feel less overwhelmed.Key topics and timings: 0.20 - Episode overview.0.30 - The feeling of overwhelm people are experiencing.1.05 - What the Pet Business Content Planner is and how it can help with becoming a person who plans.2.20 - Why planning is challenging and how it might take a few attempts to get started.2.50 - The reasons people say they can’t plan.3.30 - The importance of being seen.3.50 - Why planning isn’t a personality trait but a habit that you can do, just like brushing your teeth.4.30 - Setting yourself up for success with planning.5.10 - Client example - Louise from Studio44Pilates and her tracker.6.30 - Why it’s important to put your business out there as an ethical pet pro.9.02 - Why habit tracking works.9.30 - How writing down your goals helps.10.37 - How the Generation Effect works.12.15 - Creating the right environment to plan.14.03 - Gamification and how that helps with planning.15.34 - Why monthly planning works better than bigger goals.16.03 - The fresh start effect and how the planner can support you.17.54 - Why it’s not about being a perfect planner and how all you need to do it keep coming back.18.34 - Starting small with 5 simple ways to be a person who plans.21.12 - Why you don’t wake up one day as an amazing planner, but you can become a person who plans.21.43 - How to get a copy of the Planner, join the Planner Club and win a stay at Sunnyside Cottage or a year of support.Links mentioned in this episode: James Clear - Atomic HabitsStudio44Pilates Habit Tracker: https://mailchi.mp/f755bf536962/mymonthonthematKerry Whitney from Frankys Bowtique fitness progress page: https://www.instagram.com/kerry_9whitneyMel Robbins podcast: https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-358/Related posts: How to create habits as a pet professionalThe importance of looking back to see how far you’ve comeIs my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?What is The Planner Club and should you joinHow to use the Pet Business Content PlannerShould you buy my Pet Business Content Planner

Are you looking for a simple planning system that can cover your SEO, social media and email marketing?Maybe you'd love to create one piece of content that you can use for all three, and know that your business is showing up on Google and in the AI learning models.If so this podcast is for you.It covers how to create content to feed the demands of your website, social media and your newsletter so you can keep in touch with your current clients, and connect with people who need what you have to offer.Key topics and timings: 0.21 - What to expect from this episode.0.50 - How my pet business planner can help.2.30 - What we know about pet owner behaviour when it comes to searching online.7.23 - The 'They ask, you answer,' principle by Marcus Sheridan.8.20 - Examples of what kind of user experience you can create.10.20 - How creating content for your website and Google will help the AI models learn about you.11.48 - Start with one core piece for the week or month and host on your website.12.35 - Creating a bank of bingeable content for your website, and that you can send to potential clients when they ask you questions.13.15 - Remember your blog content will show up on AI searches too.14.00 - Case study, Louise Humphrey.15.07 - How blogs you wrote years ago will serve you, and creating content themes.16.34 - How my Pet Business content planner can support you.Links mentioned in this episode: Buy my pet business planner: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/shop/Rikki Sullivan at The Canine Copywriter: https://thecaninecopywriter.co.uk/Kate Toon's SEO podcast: https://therecipeforseosuccess.com/category/podcast/Read Louise from Studio44Pilates blog: https://studio44pilates.com/category/louises-blog/Further listening: How to create website content to make your pet business stand out with Roz HealeyHow to create a pet business social media content calendarHow to start a pet blog or pet business blogHow to start a pet business newsletterHow to create a bingeable bank of contentShould you buy my pet business planner

Are you feeling ready to make a plan for 2026 but not sure where to start?Maybe you've got some big goals for the year ahead but it's the start of January and you're easing yourself in.This podcast and blog is about making a plan that fits round you actually want to work, and what’s right for your life, your energy and your goals.In the episode, I talk about the five things I believe you need to think about if you want to make a plan that works.They are your strengths, skills, energy, goals and values.I’ll take you through what each of those means, share how to figure them out for yourself, and walk you through some real-life examples to help you apply them to your own plan.Key topics and timings:0.20 - What to expect from this episode.2.13 - Sponsor message - Pet Business Content Planner3.20 - Giveaway details.3.55 - Why planning matters and so many of us get it wrong.4.55 - How we might look at a goal for our pets example.6.02 - How to back yourself when you set a goal.6.45 - Marathon example.10.50 - Katie Gwilt planning story.11.50 - Posting on social media regularly example.17.08 - Backing yourself to make your goal a reality.17.42 - Looking at matching a goal with strengths, skills, energy, goals and values.18.30 - Defining strengths.19.57 - Defining skills.22.06 - Defining energy.25.50 - Defining goals.27.04 - Defining values.31.54 - How these would apply for me.32.56 - How to get in touch.33.04 - Competition details.Links mentioned: Buy a 2026 planner or join the planner club: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/shop/Further reading/listening:Should you buy my 2026 Pet Business Content PlannerHow to use the Pet Business Content PlannerHow to create habits in your pet business you can stick toIs my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?How to choose the right pet business membershipWhy community matters for you and your pet business

Do you choose a word for the year? Or are you thinking about yours for 2026? Each year, I choose a word to guide how I want to feel and how I want to work and this year it’s Connection.In the past, it's been Calm and Space - two things I definitely needed during some pretty full-on seasons. But this year, for 2026, it’s all about connection.In this post, I’m sharing why that word matters to me, how it came about, and some reflections and prompts to help you choose what you want from the year ahead too. I hope it gives you a moment to pause and think about what 2026 could look like for you.Topics and timings:0.20 -Episode outline.0.38 - Planner sponsor message.2.17 - How do you want to feel in 2026.2.40 - Why Connection is the word for 2026.3.10 - Why my perspective has changed.4.37 - Some previous words of the year.8.10 - What Connection means and the training I'm doing for 2026.10.59 - Prompts to help you think of what connection means for you.13.09 - Connection and collaboration example with Vanessa from Wag-Wagatha Christie groomers.16.29 - The importance of a sense of belonging.17.02 - How the Pets Get Visible membership can help you feel connected.17.44 - More real life meet ups for 2026.19.08 - Why it's not just you sitting there thinking everyone else has it all figured out and you dont.21.18 - How imposter syndrome is with us at all levels.22.05 - Thank you message to start the year. Links mentioned in this episode:Emotions coaching: https://www.igcompany.com/emotionscoachingPlanner and Planner Club: www.rachelspencer.co.uk/shopFurther reading/listening: 12 Takeaways from my Online Planning DayHow to prepare for a pet business eventIs my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?How to choose the right pet business membership Should you buy my Pet Business Content PlannerWhat is The Planner Club and should you joinWhy I am an accredited Pet Business Coach Look back and see how far you've come

Are you thinking of putting up your pricess in 2026?If you're a pet business owner who struggles with charging fairly, overdelivers, and feels awkward about pricing - this episode is for you.I share what my current offers include, why my prices are increasing in 2026, and how the investment I’ve made in my own training and development is shaping the support I provide.You’ll also hear from two of my lovely clients, Louise and Sarah, who’ve both grown in confidence and visibility through coaching and community support.I also explore the emotional side of pricing - the guilt, the fear, and that voice that says “no one will pay that.”In this episode I'm inviting you to reflect on whether you might be undercharging, and how to make pricing decisions that feel right and fair for you.And if working together has been on your mind, this is your heads - up to take that next step before my new prices come in from January 2026.Key topics and timings:0.14 – Why talking about pricing is awkward.0.44 - Why this episode is for my fellow 'terrible businesswomen' who go over the top for thier clients and feel bad about money.1.30 – One-to-one coaching: what’s changing and why.2.30 - What 1-1 support includes.3.58 - Louise shares what it’s like to be coached by me.6.48 - Membership price increase: what’s included and why it’s going up.7.12 - The impact of community, support, and being seen8.50 - Client example, Sarah Jones.14.12- Sarah’s journey from invisibility to impact.18.07 - How benchmarking my pricing helped with this process.19.17 - The ways I'm investing in myself for 2026 - Emotions Coaching Practitioner Training.21.34 - How pricing low impacts on how you feel and valuing yourself.22.30 - What knocked my confidence with pricing.23.30 - Why I can look in the mirror and feel OK about what I charge and straightforward offers.25.34 - Pricing in a way that feels good and is fair to you.26.15 – Final reflections on money mindset, growth, and doing what feels right.27.13 - What to do if you want to work with me.Links mentioned in this episode:Is my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?How to choose the right pet business membershipJane Ardern - putting you first in your pet business How much does pet business coaching cost?Different kinds of coaching for different stages in your businessHow to choose a pet business coachWhat is a pet business coachWhy I am an accredited Pet Business Coach

When you run a business, it can feel like you’re constantly bombarded with new things you need to be doing.You wear plenty of hats anyway, from doing the actual work, to social media, your accounts, keeping on top of your orders and appointments.And on top of that, in the ever-changing online world, with so many ways you can get your business seen at your fingertips, there’s an endless barrage of information on stuff you need to do.There will be times when what you need is directive support, for someone to say, ‘You need to.’And there will be stages where you’ll need space to think about what you need, and you might benefit from someone to pose that question to you.In this episode, I talk about the two approaches, what coaching is, what mentoring is, and some things to consider when it comes to working out what you need.Plus, your options if you’re looking for support.Key topics and timings:0.20 - Episode outline.0.45 - Pets Get Visible sponsor message.1.24 - The 'You need to' challenge.3.25 - How it can feel like you've run back into the thing you tried to get away from, being micromanaged.4.45 - Working at your own pace.5.30 - When I DO tell people what to do.7.16 - The difference between coaching and mentoring, 8.34 - Keri Squibb Pets Get Visible review.9.48 - The three kinds of coaches I see in the pet business space.13.28 - The coaching support I'm having at the moment.14.40 - Having an unshakable belief in what you do.15.00 - Why it's up to you to decide what success is for you.16.30 - What person centred coaching is.17.50 - What happened when I decided to go freelance.20.02 - Training to be a coach in 2022.21.14 - Tools in the planner that can help you figure out what you need.22.30 - What kind of support would help you?23.00 - How to get in touch if you'd like to work together.Links mentioned in this episode:Join Pets Get Visible: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/pets-get-visible/Buy a 2026 planner: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/product/pet-business-content-planner/Further reading/listening: What is a pet business coachShould you buy the Pet Business Content PlannerWhy I am an accredited Pet Business CoachIs my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?Different kinds of coaching for different stages in your businessHow to choose a pet business coach

Are you already feeling like you’ve got a plan for 2026 or looking for some inspiration?If it’s the latter then carry on reading because in this post and podcast episode, I’m sharing 12 lessons from the online planning day I ran recently.As well as the key areas covered in training, You’ll hear from the pet professionals who were there on the day and what works for them.Whether you're all set for 2026 or thinking of the year ahead, I hope these give you a feeling of clarity, some  reassurance, and maybe a few ideas to try out for yourself.Key topics and timings: 0.20 - What to expect from the episode0.40 - What to expect from the 2026 Planner0.59 - Match funding for The Big Give and StreetVet2.30 - Planning support for 2026 and your options2.45 - About the five pet professionals who shared their stories7.14 - Lesson 1 - People crave structure8.12 - Lesson 2 - Be flexible9.43 - Lesson 3 - Keep checking to see what's working11.14 - Lesson 4 - Plan for Jan = positive start for 202611.39 - Lesson 5 - Don’t forget how amazing you are13.05 - Lesson 6 - Think of your content as a time capsule13.33 - Lesson 7 - Energy is what will make a difference14.22 - Lesson 8 - Being visible is SCARY15.09 - Lesson 9 - Focus on what matters to you16.07 - Lesson 10 - Stay on your own to-do list18.05 - Lesson 11 - You don’t have to do it on your own19.17 - Lesson 12 - Make sure you're connected20.38 - Ways to work together for 2026Links mentioned in this episode: Planner Club: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/product/pet-business-planner-bundle/Pet Business Content Planner: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/product/pet-business-content-planner/Check out Pets Get Visible - My membership for support, coaching, content ideas and connection all year round. It's currently £30/month (going up to £45 in 2026).Head here: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/pets-get-visible/Related postsShould you buy my Pet Business Content PlannerWhat is The Planner Club and should you join?The importance of looking back and seeing how far you've comeChoosing the right pet business membershipIs my Pets Get Visible membership right for you?

Jade Statt is the co-founder of StreetVet, a charity supporting people affected by homelessness and their pets.Jade, her co-founder Sam Joseph, and their volunteers, support animals in 23 locations in the UK and there are 350 vets and nurses who are part of StreetVet.It all started when Jade, a vet, was on a night out in London in 2016, and saw a homeless man whose dog had a painful skin condition.She was desperate to help but couldn’t, and the image of that dog stayed with her, so she decided she wanted to make a difference.Jade began going out and treating animals on the street, then connected with Sam, who was doing the same, and StreetVet began in 2017.In this interview, Jade shares their story, the many hurdles and challenges along the way, and how you can support the work they do.Scroll down for all the links to connect with Jade and support StreetVet. Topics and timings: 0.20 - Episode outline.1.22 - Jade on how she started StreetVet-ing in 2016, and founding the charity with Sam Joseph.2.32 - The volume of volunteers working in the UK.3.12 - The different kinds of animals StreetVet support from dogs and cats to rabbits, birds and snakes.5.29 - Trust and some of the challenges Jade and Sam and their colleagues needed to overcome.7.00 - Working with regulations to ensure vets were able to go and offer support.8.39 - Connecting with Josh Coombes of Do Something For Nothing and how that helped build trust with the homeless community.10.32 - The message Jade wants people to understand about people living on the streets with their pets and why they sacrifice a home to be with their pet.14.45 - How the difficulties with the rental market and the cost of living crisis combined could lead to more pet owners being on the street.16.36 - How 9/10 hostels don’t allow pets and why StreetVet started the Accredited Hostel Scheme.17.39 - The Purina Better With Pets Prize and how this has supported the hostel scheme and now 60 accept pets and 50 are now being ‘onboarded’ to have the right set up for pets.21.32 - What working with Purina has meant for StreetVet and how a corporate relationship works.23.33 - The StreetVet film and why it was so vital to create a film with the sensitivity it deserved.26.49 - How the Big Give is boosting funds for StreetVet and how buying a copy of my Pet Business Content Planner between 2nd - 9th December 2025 will mean £5 is donated. This is fund matched meaning the charity will be given £10.28.07 - Some of the stories in the film - Debs and Bluebell and working with Steph Keelan to ensure StreetVet was represented appropriately.32.30 - Jade shares some of the ‘ugly moments’ of the StreetVet experience and managing the charity along with her work as a vet.35.30 - Why collaboration is important for StreetVet.36.53 - Dean Coleman, one of Jade’s clients who passed away and how losing him impacted on Jade.39.23 - Reflective practice and emotional support for volunteers with Rosie Allister from Vet Life.41.46 - How being a StreetVet has impacted on Jade’s mental health.45.07 - How the awareness and support around mental health has changed.46.30 - Homeless people cite their dog as their ‘support network’ research. 48.06 - Ways you can support StreetVet as a business.50.06 - The Big Give and the boost this can give by doubling donations - this year’s target is £60,000.51.03 - The Human Animal Bond Day on July 26th.52.07 - What’s next for Jade and StreetVet and having vets and nurses in new locations, with the goal of two new locations a year for the next two years.54.01 - Ways to connect with StreetVet.Key quotes:"If you were made homeless tomorrow, would you give up your pet? Most people say no -but have you really thought what that means?""There may be nothing else going well for that person, but that dog is their anchor in a chaotic life.""The commitment these owners show - putting their pet before themselves at every turn - is humbling.""StreetVet gave Dean a purpose, and now he’s part of our legacy. We honour him every day in our work.""The reality of life on the street is one of love, sacrifice and survival—and our film gives voice to that story."Links mentioned in this episode:Watch the new StreetVet film on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9h_FhJO3xHkFind out more about The Big Give: https://biggive.org/charities/StreetVet’s Accredited Hostel Scheme: https://www.streetvet.co.uk/streetvet-accredited-hostel-scheme/The Better with Pets Purina Prize: https://www.purina.co.uk/our-impact/better-with-petsHuman-Animal Bond Day: https://www.human-animalbondday.com/eventsFollow Josh Coombes/Do Something for Nothing: https://www.instagram.com/dosomethingfornothing

Have you bought a planner because you want to feel more organised, calm and in control of your pet business in 2026?It’s normal to start the year with good intentions of how you’d like things to be.And with a plan that you can keep checking back in on and that prompts you to look at your progress, the goals you set for yourself for the year ahead can become a reality.Whether you’ve bought a copy of my Pet Business Content Planner or you’re looking for inspiration for using any planner, this post will help you get the most of the planner you’ve invested in.Key topics and timings in this episode:0.20 - What to expect from this episode.2.08 - What the planner has inside and the different elements, the diary, awareness days, goals and reflections, quarterly planning, and coaching exercises.5.30 - What a planning power hour is and how to have one.8.15 - The importance of taking time to reflect each month.9.40 - Building a habit of using a planner.11.58 - Case study - Clare Ware from Insight Hounds.13.01 - Using the Words for When section when you need support or get stuck.15.24 - Having a monthly and quarterly check-in to see your progress.18.39 - About the Planner and the Planner Club.Links mentioned in this episode:The planner is £40: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/product/pet-business-content-planner/Join the Planner Club here: https://rachelspencer.co.uk/product/pet-business-planner-bundle/ Further reading/listeningShould you buy my Pet Business Content Planner and Companion?What is the Pet Business Planner Club and should you join?Is my Pet Business Planning Event right for you?How to use awareness days in your pet business contentNavigating the rollercoaster that is running your own businessThe importance of looking back and seeing how far you've come Why every pet business should have a win folder

Kate Hendry is the founder of Finbo Studio - a branding and design agency that helps pet businesses create a visual identity that feels just like them.In this episode, we talk all about how your brand is so much more than just a logo – and how to put yourself out there in a way that feels good.Kate is the brilliant brain behind the design of my planner, and she’s worked with loads of amazing pet brands to help them stand out, tell their stories, and grow businesses they’re proud of.We talk about how she went from drawing wildlife prints for her son Finn’s nursery and selling them in an Asda car park, to creating brands that go on to win top industry awards.We cover the mistakes she’s made, the moments that made her want to give up, underpants on the radiator, and what it takes to build a business that reflects who you are.Kate explains what good branding is really about - not just colours and logos, but clarity, confidence, and creating something that supports you to show up. She also shares how feeling invisible shaped the way she now helps others feel seen.We chat about why we need to stop overthinking, how to be brave in our content, and why sometimes the hardest part of business is saying the thing you really want to say.I really hope you love this episode, and that it leaves you feeling a little bit braver when it comes to being yourself.You’ll find all the links to connect with Kate at the end of this post, along with a summary of our conversation.Key topics and timings:0.20 - Episode overview.2.53 - Kate’s introduction and background.4.02 - How Kate’s self-employment business started with creating wildlife illustrations and prints for her little boy Finn and selling them in Asda car park.7.07 - Understanding profits and margins and why Kate stepped away from her product business.9.21 - How Kate uses the experience she made with her product business to support her clients in her new business.13.35 - How Kate fell into the niche of working with pet brands.18.05 - The process of helping a pet brand work out how to bring their brand to life and represent themselves in a way that feels right and reflects how they are.23.51 - How her clients are the key for helping Kate bringing their brands to life with a case study with Kate Hart from The Sniffer Shop.25.50 - The research process and how the passion of the business owner is brought into branding.27.59 - How the branding and strategy and design is implemented across the business.31.45 - How a visual identity project worked for Nina Fotara from The Confident Canine.35.21 - How Kate would brand herself.40.29 - The confidence you get from feeling the impression you’re putting out into the world reflects your business properly.43.29 - Why Kate’s own experience of feeling invisible and wanting to be ‘small and quiet’ makes her so passionate about supporting her clients in feeling good about being seen.48.55 - Originality and authenticity and how this makes running your business easier.51.24 - Being brave with your content.52.14 - How Kate is feeling more confident with sharing her thoughts and feelings and not being scared of being divisive and how posting your opinions will help you stand out. 54.45 - Kate’s advice for people who want to stand out and why you don’t need to be polished and professional.57.08 - Our sharing things you’re a bit scared of saying challenge!1.01.52 - Where to find out more about Kate.Links mentioned in this episode:Find out more about Kate on her website: https://finbostudio.co.uk/Learn more about The Sniffer Shop: https://thesniffershop.co.uk/Learn more about Nina at The Confident Canine: https://confidentcanine.co.uk/Further listening/reading:Kate Hart on creating Nose Joy with The Sniffer ShopShould you buy my Pet Business Content Planner?What is The Planner Club and should you join?Should you join my Online Pet Business Planning event?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the things you’re told you should be doing, and you're craving some space to figure out what actually works for you, this episode is for you.I’m talking about my 2026 online content planning day - what it includes, how it works, who it’s for (and who it’s not for), and why it’s part of my new offer, the Planner Club.But more than that, I share why this isn’t about giving you another strategy or a list of things to add to your already full plate. It’s about giving you space, support, and structure so you can trust yourself, get clear on what you want in 2026, and build a plan that fits your business - not someone else’s.Topics and timings in this episode:0.20 - Episode outline and what to expect.0.35 - About the 2026 Pet Business Content Planner.1.45 - What is the event all about and why the online event I’m running is different in articulating what you’re really charging for.3.20 - Why the event is about having time and space to work out what you want for 2026.4.20 - The structure of the event, timings and what will be covered.5.00 - Benefits of the Planner Club (the event is part of this)6.51 - Why the event isn’t about teaching, it’s space for you to think about the year ahead.7.30 - The problem with using someone’s system.8.30 - Why keeping it simple can be key for figuring out what’s right for you?8.50 - Rachel Vigers from Rock Consulting and her framework - Direction, Connection, Impact and Differentiation.9.30 - How different ways of communication work for different personalities.11.22 - Why I won’t be starting a YouTube channel or going on TikTok.12.30 - Why I don’t do video.13.50 - Why I want my event to be the opposite of the noise we hear about all the things we should be doing.14.16 - Who the event is not for.14.28 - Who the event is for.15.26 - Self-trust and why it’s the opposite of waiting for the magic bullet that will save your business.Quotes from this episode:“The problem with someone else’s system is - it’s someone else’s system. It might be amazing for them, but it doesn’t mean it’ll work for you.”“I don’t want to add more to your list. I want to help you focus on what you want to do next - without all the noise.”“This event isn’t about teaching or telling you what to do. It’s about giving you the space to think clearly about your 2026.”“Self-trust is the opposite of chasing trends. It’s knowing what’s right for you and building your business your way.”“I’m not going on YouTube. I’ve got false teeth, a broken nose, and a lifetime of insecurities - and I’m still building a business that works for me.”Links mentioned in this episode:Denise Duffield Thomas - What are you really charging for? https://www.denisedt.com/blog/what-are-you-really-charging-forShould you join my Planner Club? https://rachelspencer.co.uk/the-planner-club-pet-business/