In this episode of I Hope This Helps, we sit down with Jack Denelsbeck, co-owner of Pet Wants South Orange (SOMA), for an honest conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and why pet nutrition matters more than most people realize.
Jack shares his journey from nonprofit work in HIV/AIDS education and corporate diversity training to building a thriving, community-focused pet nutrition business with his husband, Jonathan. Together, they’ve spent nearly a decade growing Pet Wants into a trusted local brand centered on fresh, slow-cooked dog and cat food, clean ingredients, and education—offering a thoughtful alternative to big-box pet stores and mass-produced pet food.
We dive into the realities of small business ownership, including transitioning careers, opening a brick-and-mortar store, learning when to say no, and balancing growth with personal well-being. Jack also opens up about confidence, resilience, and navigating entrepreneurship while staying deeply connected to the local South Orange and Maplewood community.
The conversation breaks down common misconceptions around pet food, what to look for on ingredient labels, and how quality nutrition impacts long-term pet health, energy, digestion, and overall wellness. Jack explains why fresh, small-batch food, clean treats, and thoughtful supplements can make a noticeable difference for both dogs and cats.
Whether you’re a pet parent, small business owner, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode delivers real-world insight, practical advice, and honest lessons learned from building something meaningful.
To find out about Pet Wants SOMA visit Jack
www.petwantssouthorange.com
www.instagram.com/petwantssoma
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