In this episode, I’m joined by Rebecca from Skyline Pet Care, who strongly believes in the power of building connections within the pet industry, and together we unpack where networking genuinely helps and where it can quietly work against business owners.

This conversation is intentionally balanced. My guest shares why industry connections, community, and collaboration have played a positive role in her journey, opening doors, creating support, and helping businesses grow together.

I bring the opposing perspective.

Drawing from my own experience building a multi-six-figure pet business, I speak openly about the downsides that often don’t get talked about. The pressure to be visible in industry spaces.

Comparison that erodes confidence. Relationships that blur boundaries, drain energy, or subtly influence pricing and decision-making.

Rather than trying to convince one another, we explore both sides honestly, allowing listeners to decide what kind of connections actually serve their business.

In this episode, we discuss:

- Why industry connections can be powerful when values and intentions align

- How collaboration and community support can accelerate growth

- The hidden risks of networking, including comparison, obligation, and burnout

- When connections become social noise instead of strategic support

- How over-connecting can dilute focus, boundaries, and authority

- Why success doesn’t require being deeply embedded in industry circles

We also talk about discernment. How to connect without overcommitting. How to stay professional without being overly accessible. And why opting out of certain industry spaces isn’t a failure, it’s often a strategic choice.

This episode is ideal for pet professionals who feel torn between wanting community and protecting their focus, energy, and business direction.

There’s no right or wrong approach here, just honest perspectives that challenge the idea that more connections automatically mean more success.