The Daily Groomer

After Hours Episode #98: In this episode of After Hours, let’s get real—burnout happens to all of us groomers, even when we love what we do. I’m flying solo and talking about the stress that comes with full books, feeling overwhelmed, and realizing it might be time to raise your prices and know your worth. I’m sharing personal stories, a few laughs, honest advice about setting boundaries, practicing gratitude, and trying to keep your sanity through it all. There are a couple rants, maybe even a tear or two, but mostly this is a reminder that you’re not alone in feeling this way.

Summary
In our latest episode of The Daily Groomer, I chat with Valerie Partynski—a second-generation groomer and a close friend—about her journey in the industry. We get into her early days learning from some of the greats, how grooming has evolved over the years, and her take on professionalism, client care, and training. Valerie also shares practical advice on building strong client relationships, setting up training programs, and handling pricing conversations with confidence. It’s a solid listen if you’re looking to sharpen your approach and run things a little smoother.

Timestamps
04:04 Evolution of Grooming Industry Practices

10:03 Challenges in Groomer Training Today

19:13 Pareto Principle for Client Care

29:21 Encouraging Repeat Visits Strategies

32:29 Summer Price Strategy Adjustments

37:15 Business Strengths and Weaknesses

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media @chicagogroomer. Curious about Teddy? You can sign up here. For more grooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠⁠. Join and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠⁠!

After Hours Episode #97: In this episode of After Hours, I talk about what it really means to lead with kindness, why your intentions matter, and how to stop letting other people control your energy. I get into the drama that can happen in the grooming world, the importance of setting boundaries, and why protecting your peace has to come first. I also share some personal stories, thoughts on self-love, and simple reminders to focus on what you can control. At the end of the day, being the queen—or king—of your own universe starts with taking care of yourself first.

After Hours Episode #96: In this episode of After Hours, I hang out with my “twin from another timeline” Jay Snowdon, for a funny, honest, and surprisingly heartfelt conversation. We get into Jay’s journey from rehab to grooming, building a following by being unapologetically authentic, and the kind of energy that can completely change the vibe behind the grooming table. We also talk about social media, queer identity, viral moments, favorite grooming products, and why real connection—with both dogs and people—is what matters most. And yes, there’s definitely a little Taylor Swift talk too

Summary
In our latest episode of The Daily Groomer, I sit down with Jessica Craun, owner of Fluff and Fetch Grooming in Fishersville, VA, to talk about what really goes into creating a great client experience. We get into everything from intake forms and booking systems to the small personal touches that make clients come back—and how to deal with no-shows without the stress. Jessica also shares how she went from junior showmanship to running a busy salon, along with simple, practical ways to build systems that actually work for both you and your clients.

Timestamps06:31 Client Intake Process Streamlined

11:33 Building a Better Grooming System

15:32 Boosting Online Bookings Success

Stay connected with our guest speakers! Follow them on their social media @fluffandfetchdoggrooming. Curious about Teddy? You can sign up here. For more grooming tips, insights, and stories, check out our website at ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer⁠⁠⁠⁠. Join and be part of ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Daily Groomer Community⁠⁠!