Contacts
Info
Join trailblazers Mary Oquendo and Chris Bear Anthony as they discuss everything mobile and house call pet grooming.
Episodes & Posts
Episodes
Posts
5 NOV 2025 · Welcome to another lively episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In today’s special live recording, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by Annalisa Signorelli, a seasoned grooming professional and problem-solver who’s bringing innovation to the grooming table. This episode—recorded live simultaneously on the California Groomers Association and Traveling Groomers Facebook pages—dives into one of the industry’s most persistent challenges: communication between groomers and clients.Chris, Mary, and Annalisa share real-life anecdotes of grooming mix-ups, client misunderstandings, and the infamous “I’ll do my best” promise that leaves groomers everywhere sighing in solidarity. But it’s not just about venting—Annalisa introduces an exciting new app designed to transform client consultations, using easy-to-understand visuals and AI-powered customization to help bridge the communication gap and protect groomers from lost revenue and unhappy customers.If you’re a pet groomer who’s ever found yourself caught between a client’s expectations and grooming reality, or if you’re looking for practical tools to run your business smoother, this episode is for you. Tune in to hear about the importance of clear client communication, the role of continuing education, charming behind-the-scenes stories, and how technology is helping groomers everywhere “do their best”—and then some.Grab your shears and let’s get started!
22 OCT 2025 · The holidays can be the busiest—and most stressful—time of year for groomers. In this episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo share practical strategies to keep your business running smoothly while protecting your sanity.From smart holiday scheduling hacks to making sure your equipment and van are in top shape, we dive into everything you need to plan ahead and avoid chaos. You’ll pick up tips for clear client communication, setting boundaries, and finding time to breathe in the middle of the rush.And because self-care matters as much as business prep, we talk about the importance of taking downtime, rewarding yourself, and leaning on your grooming community for support.Whether you’re a seasoned pro or gearing up for your first holiday rush, this episode will help you stay organized, prepared, and positive—so you can make this your most successful (and least stressful) season yet.
8 OCT 2025 · Welcome aboard, fellow groomers, pet stylists, and canine cosmetologists!In this episode of The Traveling Groomers Podcast, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by the ever-delightful Amanda McGrath for an insightful—and frequently hilarious—conversation all about turning chaos into calm in your grooming business.The trio dives into Amanda’s brand-new, all-in-one planner created specifically for the grooming industry. They explore why organization is often the missing key for many professionals—and how implementing streamlined systems can save you hours every week.You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at Amanda’s approach to taming both physical and digital clutter, hear some all-too-relatable tales of tech trouble, and pick up expert tips on time-blocking, boosting productivity, and ditching that overwhelming “I’m drowning” feeling every busy groomer knows.Amanda also shares how to get your hands on her highly anticipated planner, gives us the scoop on her latest Etsy offerings, and teases what’s coming next in her mission to help groomers reclaim their time (and sanity).Whether you’re a mobile groomer, salon owner, or just trying to keep the fur off your keyboard, this episode is packed with laughs, wisdom, and real-world strategies to help you work smarter—not harder.So grab your travel mug, hit play, and get ready to get organized!
24 SEP 2025 · Hey, Traveling Groomers! In this episode, Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo take you along for an exclusive, whirlwind adventure behind the scenes at Super Zoo in Las Vegas and Hershey Groom Expo. From the bustling Mandalay Bay Convention Center floor to impromptu interviews with industry pros, vendors, and podcast fans, you’ll get a real insider’s look at the grooming world’s biggest trade shows.We explore the latest grooming tools and technology, like innovative neck dryers and AI-powered pet check-in assistants, and chat with vendors about everything from van conversions to cutting-edge sanitation solutions. Plus, Chris and Mary get real about the high-energy (and sometimes overwhelming) experience of trade shows, share tips for surviving long days on your feet, and reflect on the importance of industry connections, education, and, of course, comfy shoes!You’ll also hear about the Purina Purple Leash Project, fun vendor giveaways, and some hilarious trade show mishaps—because what’s a grooming expo without losing your spoons and accidentally following a cute corgi? Whether you’re a show regular or thinking about attending your first expo, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and the kind of camaraderie that keeps the grooming community strong.So grab your travel mug and settle in—let’s roll!
10 SEP 2025 · From Groom Expo prep to celebrating Barkleigh Honors winners, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo mix laughs, real talk, and practical tips for grooming pros. Discover how Surrounded by Idiots can help you work better with clients and colleagues, why boundaries matter, and the life-saving importance of carbon monoxide detectors in mobile vans. Camaraderie, insight, and a few hilarious detours—this is grooming talk at its best.
27 AUG 2025 · Welcome to another lively episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! Hosts Mary Oquendo and Chris Anthony welcome Tina Davis to share behind-the-scenes details and spirited conversations about preparing for the upcoming Rocky Mountain Groom Expo—now bringing its unique flair to Arizona! Laugh along as the hosts navigate technical hiccups, swap stories about altitude sickness and travel woes, and dig into the joys and challenges of organizing a grooming trade show. Tina gives listeners an exclusive peek at the Mesa Convention Center venue, complete with hotel tips, Arizona acclimation advice, and—of course—a glimpse at the food options (food trucks or concessions, anyone?). Get ready to mark your calendar: the show runs from October 31st through November 2nd, punctuated by not just expert classes but also community celebrations, including a vibrant Día de los Muertos festival and a Halloween costume parade for kids, adults, and even pets! Learn about the star-studded speaker lineup, specialty classes, and why this expo stands out from the rest. Whether you’re a seasoned grooming pro or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with camaraderie, insider tips, and genuine moments that remind us all why the grooming community is truly a family. So tune in, get inspired, and get ready for some laughs—you won’t want to miss this preview of everything the Rocky Mountain Groom Expo has in store!
30 JUL 2025 · Welcome aboard another episode of the Traveling Groomers Podcast! This week, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by special guest Lisa Menze—a longtime groomer turned pet care staffing expert. In this jam-packed discussion, we explore everything from the benefits of hiring virtual assistants in the grooming industry to practical tips on working smarter, not harder. Lisa shares her insider knowledge on how groomers can reclaim precious hours in their workweek with the help of trained virtual support, and dives into the crucial difference between personal and business credit. We also get an early look at her upcoming educational programs designed to help pet professionals build business credit and plan for a sustainable, less stressful future. Whether you’re a solopreneur drowning in to-dos or # seasoned business owner looking to level up, there’s something in this episode for you—plus a few fun digressions, of course. So grab your travel mug and get ready for another enlightening ride with the Traveling Groomers!
16 JUL 2025 · Welcome back to the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this special episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by the wonderful Kirstine Reynolds for an honest, insightful, and often hilarious conversation that covers everything from grooming giant floofy cats to surviving breast cancer and breaking down barriers in the grooming industry. Recorded just before the Rocky Mountain Groom Expo, this episode dives deep into personal journeys—sharing the joys (and challenges) of caring for Maine Coons and Norwegian Forest Cats, the uniquely open camaraderie among breast cancer survivors, and the importance of normalizing tough topics in a female-dominated industry. The trio also explores the latest science in canine cognition with the introduction of the Cognitive Grooming Method, highlighting how modern research can help us better connect with and care for our four-legged clients. Whether you’re a groomer, a pet lover, or someone looking for some laughter and encouragement, join us for a heartfelt and educational ride filled with stories, expert advice, and a celebration of community in the world of mobile and housecall grooming. Buckle up and enjoy the journey—let’s roll!
2 JUL 2025 · Welcome aboard the Traveling Groomers Podcast! In this milestone 300th episode, hosts Chris Anthony and Mary Oquendo are joined by their long-time friend (and not-so-special-guest-anymore), Angie, for a lively conversation that digs deep into the world of cat grooming. As always, expect a blend of practical wisdom, hilarious asides, industry insights, and plenty of real talk from groomers who've learned their lessons—the hard way and otherwise. This week, the trio opens up about lessons learned from years of mobile and house call grooming, with a special focus on the unique challenges and approaches in cat grooming. They share personal stories—sometimes hair-raising, sometimes heartwarming—about reading feline body language, understanding stress signals, setting boundaries for both pets and clients, and the importance of prioritizing safety over simply "getting the job done." The episode also tackles outdated handling techniques, misconceptions about cats, and the differences between being a “cat groomer” versus a “dog groomer who grooms cats.” Of course, it wouldn't be the Traveling Groomers without fun detours—think peach trees, homemade cyanide jokes, and enthusiastic celebrations of their 300th episode. Along the way, they offer both new and seasoned groomers invaluable advice on recognizing when to stop a groom, handling aggressive or fragile cats, and the all-important reminder to always wear masks when blow drying. Plus: learn why conditioning cats is just as crucial as conditioning dogs, and get tips on setting up your grooming space for a more positive feline experience. If you’re looking for honest advice, a few laughs, and a deep dive into the art (and science) of compassionate, effective pet grooming, you’re in for a treat. Grab your travel mug and tune in—the Traveling Groomers are taking you on another unforgettable ride!
Join trailblazers Mary Oquendo and Chris Bear Anthony as they discuss everything mobile and house call pet grooming.
Information
| Author | Mary Oquendo |
| Organization | Mary Oquendo |
| Categories | Education |
| Website | www.spiriteddog.com |
| mary@pawsitivelypretty.com |
Copyright 2025 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company
