The Groompod

Are we living in the future, or is the future already here? In this episode of The GroomPod, hosts Susy Scott and Barbara Bird plow headfirst into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI)! Barbara shares her recent experiences collaborating with AI as a tireless, enthusiastic research and editing partner to help break down complex grooming and skin sciences into digestible, bite-sized education. Susy and Barbara also discuss practical ways you can use AI in your own grooming salon or mobile business—from drafting client handouts and waivers to creating standard operating procedures and fresh social media content. Plus, Susy experiments with a modified multiple-dog bathing technique in her mobile van, sharing tips on managing workflow, equipment limits, and navigating the quirks of stainless steel tubs. Finally, Barbara wraps things up with a fascinating "science moment" looking at a 2025 study on critical micelle concentration (CMC) in surfactants, proving why highly concentrated sulfate shampoos can be diluted much further than you think, and how sulfate-free formulas stack up. A special thanks to our sponsors: Best Shot, Stazko, Show Season, Groomore, and Precision Sharp!

Get ready to scrub down your physical space and your mental space in this episode of The GroomPod! Host Susy the Groomer is joined by Barbara Bird to talk about the magic of horsepower and high temperatures. Susy shares her latest workspace upgrade: a new state-of-the-art vapor steam cleaner. Discover the ultimate guidelines for using steam to blast away dander and grime in the nooks, crannies, and sliding tracks of your mobile van or brick-and-mortar salon without warping your composite wood or ruining your expensive electrical equipment. Then, the duo shifts from deep cleaning the salon to deep cleaning their mental space. Barbara takes the mic for an essential masterclass on QTIP: Quit Taking It Personally. From dealing with critical clients to handling online reviews that sting, Barbara draws from her 10 years as a therapist and decades as a groomer to share golden strategies on building an emotional firewall between your business operations and your self-worth. Plus, the hosts catch up on the latest industry shakeups, including Groomer's Choice acquiring ShowSeason, and share a few laughs about the learning curve of managing multiple dogs in a brand-new grooming van. A special thank you to our corporate sponsors: Best Shot, ShowSeason, Precision Sharp Groomore, Stazko.

n this exciting episode of The GroomPod, Susy and Barbara sit down with the incredible Stephenie Calhoun, owner of The Meditative Groomer Academy in Wisconsin! Stephenie recently packed her bags and headed straight to the source—Korea—to immerse herself in the hyper-precise, physics-defying world of high-end Korean grooming and advanced model dog sculpting. As a member of the North American Model Dog team, Stephenie shares what it's really like to train in the ultra-structured Korean academy system, how they utilize drafting and drawing to master canine structure, and how she is bringing these game-changing educational systems back home. Plus, we dive deep into her unique, mindful approach to teaching neurodivergent learners, the practicality of synthetic model dogs, and how the grooming industry inherently embraces creative minds. Whether you are a seasoned stylist drooling over Asian fusion trims on Instagram or looking for a more structured, supportive way to learn, this is an episode you won’t want to miss! Where to find Stephenie: Website: themeditativegroomeracademy.com Facebook: Stephenie Calhoun Instagram/TikTok: @chaosmanagercalhoun Model Dog Info: North American Model Dog Club (Facebook Group)

Are you looking to save your back, slash your grooming times, and get more out of your products? This week, Susy and Barbara are diving deep into the tub to explore a tool that completely transforms your workflow: recirculating bathing systems. Whether you are operating out of a mobile van or a brick-and-mortar shop, changing how you bathe can feel like giving yourself an immediate raise. We break down the marketplace and review six different bathing systems from powerful, high-flow contenders to budget-friendly models. We put them head-to-head against the "gold standard"—the Hanvey Bathing Beauty—comparing everything from pump pressure and hose ergonomics to air switches, filtration, and crucial built-in GFCI safety features. Discover why too much foam can xchoke your system, why nozzle spray patterns make all the difference, and how to spot a high-quality unit versus a rebranded pump. Plus, Susy gives a quick update on adapting to the new video show format, the sweet luxury of proper mobile van air conditioning during a Pacific Northwest heat wave, and her latest "skin detective" case dealing with a mysterious yeasty skin issue. What’s New Segment Sponsored by Best Shot Pet: Learn how The Maxx ultra-concentrated conditioner and Ultra Max Anti-Stat & Scissor Spray can tackle tough mats and turn your recirculator into a high-performance deshedding machine! Sponsor Highlight: Check out the balanced power and sliding thumb precision of the Lynx and Bobcat shear series at Precision Sharp.

The GroomPod Episode 479: Structure, Shop Vacs, and Global Grooming Join Susy and Barbara for a review of the April 2026 Groomer to Groomer magazine. We discuss the importance of canine structure in education, share tips on handling difficult client conversations, and catch up on Susy’s mobile van setup—bruises and all! Plus, Barbara shares her honest experience learning to use a grooming hammock.

In this episode, Susy and Barbara go beyond the barn to explore the science of skin health with Vince Polentes, co-founder of Coat Defense. Originally born from a need for clean, human-grade skincare, Coat Defense has become a staple in the equine world and is now making massive waves in professional grooming salons. What’s inside this episode: The Origin Story: How a family health journey led to a "clean-ingredient" revolution in the human, horse, and hound markets. The Maltese Case Study: Barbara shares her "overnight" success using the Coat Defense powder on her own yeasty Maltese. The Great EWG Debate: A spirited discussion on the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and how to navigate ingredient safety data as a professional. Shampoo Chemistry: We look at saponified, aloe-based formulas and their surprising effects on pH and hair cuticles. Pro-to-Pro Solutions: Addressing interdigital cysts, hot spots, and the "itch cycle" without over-reliance on antibiotics. Listener Special: Vince has offered a generous 15% discount for our listeners! Visit https://www.google.com/search?q=coat-defense.com and use the code The GROOMPOD at checkout. Support our sponsors: Best Shot, Showseason, Precision Sharp, Groomore and Stazko.

Recorded on April 5, 2026, Susy and Barbara catch up on a week of sunshine and the "violent" labeling required to keep a new grooming van organized. Susy seeks help from the "masses" on how to manage 100 feet of shore power cord without drilling holes in her van.  The duo tackles technical grooming questions about Maltese coats, the dangers of heat styling, and why "tensile force" from brushing can be a groomer's worst enemy. Plus, learn about the benefits of Niacinamide for aging pets and why measuring your shampoo is the professional way to protect your bottom line. 

In this episode, Susy and Barbara dive deep into the March 2026 issue of Groomer to Groomer magazine. The duo provides a candid "virtual salon" critique of the latest industry articles, covering everything from creative grooming covers to the essential theme of self-care and burnout prevention. Susy shares her latest adventures in her new grooming van, discussing the learning curve of transitioning from shore power to generator use and troubleshooting the "super sudser" system. Meanwhile, Barbara updates us on her experiments with Coat Defense shampoo and the enlightening (if slightly confusing) results of using a blue-light neck dryer to inspect skin health. Highlights include: Magazine Review: Thoughts on the "People's Choice" creative grooming cover and a look at team events in Atlanta. Technical Talk: A debate on cat grooming techniques, recirculating systems vs. hand-washing, and the "cat clock". Professional Wellness: Discussions on compassion fatigue, moral injury, and the power of organization in the shop. Grooming Tips: Breaking down Blake’s "Regally Round Headpiece" and why sculpting isn't for everyone.

Join Susy and Barbara as they dive into the excitement of the Groom’d 2026 event in Atlanta! This week, we are joined by special guest Melody Coleman, a mobile grooming professional who recently stepped into the competition ring for the very first time with her standard poodle. In this un-edited episode, we recap the highlights of the show, from Barbara’s "adventures" navigating the trade show floor in a motorized chair to her deep dives into the latest product ingredients. We also hear about Susy’s brand-new mobile grooming van and the learning curve that comes with transitioning to a purpose-built setup. Plus, we discuss industry trends, including the importance of ingredient transparency and the global challenge of antimicrobial resistance in pet care. Whether you’re a competition veteran or a mobile pro looking for tips on managing humidity in your van, this episode is packed with stories and insights from the heart of the grooming world. Hashtags: #TheGroomPod, #DogGrooming, #GroomdAtlanta, #MobileGrooming, #GroomingCompetition, #PetIndustry, #GroomerLife, #StandardPoodle, #BarbaraBird, #SusyTheGroomer, #MelodyColeman

 In this un-edited episode, Susy and Barbara dive deep into the emotional and professional world of customer service in the grooming industry. Susy shares a "comedy of errors" involving three different generators and her transition into a Wag'n Tails grooming van from her trailer. The duo discusses how to handle confrontations without getting defensive, the power of making clients feel heard, and the "Happy Price" for those tricky customers. They also settle the debate between recirculating bathing systems versus frothers and why your hands will eventually thank you for choosing the right equipment. Whether you're dealing with a "toxic client" or a "bleeder" on a white sofa, this episode is packed with veteran advice for keeping your sanity and your business thriving.

The GroomPod Episode 473: Legacy, Lifelines, and New Beginnings  In this episode, Susy the Groomer and Barbara Bird honor the incredible life and legacy of Marlene Romani, the trailblazing inventor of the Clippervac and a mentor who shaped the grooming industry. Susy shares personal stories from her time at Marlene’s school and factory, reflecting on how that technology transformed her own career. The duo also dives deep into the February 2026 issue of Groomer to Groomer magazine. They tackle a range of topics including: Disease Prevention: A discussion on the groomer's role in vaccines and shop safety. Face Trimming Secrets: Reviewing Daryl Conner’s "face tricks" and the struggles of grooming our own difficult pets. Safety & Crisis Planning: Essential advice on carbon monoxide alarms, emergency exit plans, and shop security. Product Reviews: A first look at new scissoring sprays and the quest for ingredient transparency. Plus, big personal news! Barbara is heading to the Atlanta Pet Fair (now known as "Groomd") to join the Hanvey team, and Susy announces a major upcoming change to her mobile grooming setup.  

Susy and Barbara Bird dive into the essentials of career longevity and cutting-edge skin science. First, we’re dreaming big with "Longevity by Design." If money were no object, what would the ultimate ergonomic sanctuary look like?. From double-door safety entries and anti-fatigue flooring to the "one-inch rule" for equipment placement, we discuss how to build a shop that protects your back, wrists, and sanity for the long haul. Then, Barbara takes us to the classroom to explore Ceramides. Learn why these essential lipids are the "glue" that locks in hydration, how they support the skin barrier, and why synthetic versions might be your new best friend for treating itchy, dry, or sensitive skin. We also take a look at a new ceramide-rich shampoo from Davis Manufacturing and discuss whether it belongs in your toolkit. Plus, Susy shares a cautionary tale about a "hygroma" discovery on a client dog and the vital importance of keeping detailed grooming notes to track pet health. #doggrooming, #groomerlife, #ergonomics, #skincareforpets, #ceramides, #pethealth, #thegroompod, #groomingeducation, #barbarabird, #professionalgrooming

Welcome back to the virtual salon! After a short hiatus for vacations and new "body parts," Susy and Barbara are back to catch up on all things grooming. In this episode, Susy recounts her "badass" moment changing a trailer tire in a rainstorm and shares a tip for getting the most out of searchable podcast transcripts. The duo also dives into the latest issue of Groomer to Groomer magazine, discussing the evolution of creative grooming, the importance of business-focused tax guides, and a touching history of the industry's forebearers. Finally, Barbara drops a major Science Bomb regarding a recent study on canine pH and the real risks of shampoo contamination. If you've ever worried about "acid mantles" or wondered about the safety of diluted products, you won't want to miss this classroom session. Hashtags: #grooming, #dogtrimming, #petindustry, #groomertogroomer, #caninephysics, #mobilegrooming, #sciencebomb, #groompod, #professionalgroomer, #skincut

Welcome back to the virtual salon! In this heavy yet hopeful episode, Susy and Barbara take a moment to honor the life and legacy of a true industry giant, Chris Christensen. We reflect on how his innovations transformed the way we work at the grooming table and pay our respects to a man who changed the grooming world forever. Shifting gears to something a bit more... pungent, we dive deep into the science behind "Frito Feet". If you’ve ever wondered why your clients' dogs smell like corn chips, we’ve got the answers. We discuss the causes of this common (and smelly) condition and share our favorite professional management strategies, including the use of Zymox products to keep those paws fresh and healthy. Finally, we’re looking ahead with 2026 ways to get your business out there. Barbara and Susy share actionable marketing tips and networking secrets to help you stand out in a crowded market. From "shotgun approach" marketing to the power of a simple cookie, learn how to build deep community roots and keep your books full. In this episode, we discuss: A tribute to the late Chris Christensen and his impact on professional grooming. Understanding and managing the "corn chip" smell on dog paws. The role of Zymox in the salon.  Creative and effective marketing strategies to grow your grooming business in 2026. The importance of community networking and standing out from the pack. Don't forget to hit that like button, share with your fellow groomers, and visit us at the website! Happy grooming, everyone!

Welcome to Episode 469 of The Groom Pod! This week, Susy and Barbara sit down with dear friend, educator, and the force behind the Caring for the Canine Coat (CCE) program, Christine Sertzel Pearson. Chris is launching a groundbreaking monthly digital magazine designed to bridge the gap between daily grooming and skin science. In this episode, we dive into why this resource is essential for the modern stylist, how it provides a platform for new industry voices, and why "science-based blended with experiential advice" is the future of pet care. In this episode, we discuss: The New CCE Magazine: A low-eco-footprint digital publication featuring deep dives into ingredients, the CCE toolbox, and mindful moments for the stylist. Community & Accountability: How this project creates a networking space for groomers to share knowledge and self-promote their expertise. The Future of Education: The role of AI in research, the importance of "Ask the Expert" columns, and why we need to move past the "one way to groom" mentality. A Preventative Approach: Shifting the headset from just "attending to the coat" to a holistic, preventative model for skin health. Special Announcement: Don’t miss the second "Think About It" Summit with Chris and Barbara coming up on February 15th 2026!. Sponsors: This episode is made possible by Best Shot, Show Season, Precision Sharp, Groomer, and Stasko.

In this episode of The GroomPod, Susy the Groomer and Barbara Bird welcome back their most frequent guest, Dave Campanella from Best Shot, to discuss the cutting-edge trends shaping the grooming industry in 2026. We dive deep into Dave’s latest insights for Groomer to Groomer magazine, debunking old myths about silicone copolymers and exploring why these modern ingredients are actually "game changers" for coat protection and moisture retention. Barbara and Dave also discuss the influence of Korean Beauty on our industry, emphasizing a shift toward "skin-forward" grooming and multi-step treatments. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Truth About Silicones: Why modern copolymers are light, water-friendly, and essential for finishing dense coats. Microbiome Realities: Why "probiotic" shampoos might be more marketing than science, and why the method of application matters most. The Future of Fragrance: A look at "pet-friendly" scents and technology that actually eliminates odors rather than just masking them. The Power of Recirculating Systems: Why these systems are the "bomb" for superior conditioner deposition. Whether you are a mobile groomer like Susy or a salon owner, this episode will help you stop "working too hard" and start embracing the technology that makes grooming better in the tub. #TheGroomPod #GroomingScience #BestShot #BarbaraBird #DaveCampanella #PetGroomingTrends #DogMicrobiome #GroomerLife #GroomingEducation

Episode 467 | The Art of Mentorship & The Philosophy of K-Beauty In this episode, Susy and Barbara get real about the highs and lows of the grooming life—from surviving Northwest floods and "fish pond nightmares" to the emotional toll of losing a beloved pet. But the heart of today’s show is all about growth. First, we explore the essential traits of a great grooming mentor. Are you rushing in to fix mistakes before they happen? We discuss why "living in the mistake" is a vital part of the learning process, how to provide non-judgmental feedback, and why being an available, skilled guide is better than being a "famous" influencer. Then, Barbara takes us into the classroom to break down K-Beauty (Korean Beauty) philosophy. It’s not just about ingredients; it’s a mindset of nurturing the skin barrier rather than just fixing problems. Learn why hydration, ceramides, and a "gentle, layered" approach might be the future of your grooming tub. Inside this episode: Mentorship Mindset: Why patience is your greatest tool. The "Half-Dog" Method: A practical way to teach styling. K-Beauty vs. Western Dermatology: Shifting from "fixing" to "nurturing" skin. The Skin Barrier: Why Barbara is moving toward a K-Beauty approach for pets. Special thanks to our sponsors: Best Shot, Show Season, Precision Sharp, and Groomore software.

Episode 466: Poodle Sauce, Pistachios, and the December Issue Welcome to the virtual salon! In this episode, Suzy and Barbara celebrate the start of their 12th year of The Groom Pod. To kick off the anniversary, the duo dives deep into the December 2025 issue of Groomer to Groomer magazine, sharing their unfiltered takes on everything from business advice to breed tutorials. In This Episode: The "Secret Sauce" Experiment: Suzy shares her latest "mad scientist" moment mixing Funky Poodle’s Hair Oil with water-based detanglers. Barbara weighs in on the science of emulsifiers and how to keep your mixtures from separating. The Pistachio Craze: Barbara falls for the TikTok-famous pistachio scent but has some serious reservations about the ingredient labels on the Pistachio Dream shampoo. Magazine Review: Measuring Success: A look at Amanda McGrath’s article on tracking holiday add-ons and the importance of "doing the math". The Boss vs. Leader Debate: Why small shops often struggle with the "friend vs. boss" boundary. Darryl’s Tips: Practical advice on making gradual grooming adjustments to manage client expectations and your own stress levels. AI in the Salon: The hosts discuss a new intake app that uses AI to generate visual representations of client requests. Is it the future of communication, or just more "fake" images to worry about? Technical Talk: Quick thoughts on the English Setter tutorial and the age-old debate: to whisk or not to whisk?. Sponsor Shoutouts:  Best Shot, ShowSeason, Precision Sharp, Groomore, and Stazko.

🎧 The Groom Pod Episode 465: What to do when they pass, and Whiteners and optical brighteners Welcome to Episode 465 of The GroomPod! Join your host, Susy, a mobile groomer from Seattle, Washington, and her co-star, the curator of ingredients, Barbara Bird. This week, we are tackling two very serious, yet important, topics for every professional groomer: 🐾 When They Pass Away (00:01:08)Susy opens up about the emotional toll of grooming and the devastating loss of beloved long-time clients. We discuss one of the hardest questions in our industry: What do you do when a client's pet passes away? We cover: How to handle the grief and emotional side of pet loss. The importance of making that hard phone call to the owner. The essential, yet unpaid for, service we provide in validating a client's grief. High-emotion, low-cost gestures, like sending a framed photo or sharing a specific memory of their pet's quirks. Professional tributes, such as shelter donations or memorializing the pet with a service like Pet Perennials. The critical business step of immediately archiving the pet in your software to prevent sending a next-appointment reminder. ✨Bbird's Classroom: Whiteners and Optical Brighteners (00:32:00) Time to shake off the heavy stuff and dive into the science that makes white coats pop! Barbara takes us to school on how we achieve that "blinded by the light white". The Magic & Science: Learn the difference between dyes (like DNC blue colorant, the most common whitening agent ) and optical brighteners. Optical Brighteners: These chemicals, such as Disodium Diamino Stilbene Disulfonate (used by Best Shot), absorb one band of color and reflect back another, making colors pop and whites appear whiter—an optical illusion!. The Myth: Barbara busts the myth that optical brighteners deposit tiny particles of plastic on the coat. Best Practice: The real mechanism for a whiter dog is deep cleaning, often requiring a clarifying shampoo or one with stronger surfactants before using a whitening product. Sponsors: This episode is brought to you by Best Shot, ShowSeason, Precision Sharp, Groomore, and Stazko. #GroomPod #PetLossGrief #GroomerLife #DogGrooming #MobileGroomer #OpticalBrighteners #WhiteningShampoo #GroomerEducation #PetGroomer #BestShotPet #ShowSeason #Stazko

🐶 GroomPod 464: Stress Buckets, Trigger Stacking, and the Tea Tree Oil Truth Welcome to episode 464 of The Groom Pod! This week, hosts Suzy and Barbara Berg dive into two critical areas that affect every groomer's daily work: canine behavior management and ingredient safety. 🌊 Part 1: Trigger Stacking & The Stress Bucket Every dog arrives with a "stress bucket" already partially full. Learn how seemingly small events—from the car ride to the sound of clippers—can stack up, leading to a meltdown on your table. We discuss: The Whispers vs. The Yells: How to recognize and respect a dog's early stress signals (lip licking, yawning, whale eye) before they escalate to growling or biting. Decelerating the Overflow: Five critical steps you can take to reset a stressed dog, including stopping the trigger, creating space, and allowing for decompression. Why stopping a groom is not a failure, but a true mark of professionalism that prioritizes the dog’s emotional and physical safety. 🌿 Part 2: B-Bird's Classroom on Tea Tree Oil Barbara, the curator of ingredients, breaks down the science behind Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia). Is it a magical cure or just "fairy dust" in your shampoo? The minimum effective concentration needed for Tea Tree Oil to be truly antimicrobial (it's higher than you think!). Why you need to check the ingredient lineup to determine a product's true efficacy. A critical warning: Tea Tree Oil is toxic to dogs and cats when applied directly or in high concentrations. Learn why it should never be used with cats. Plus, Suzy shares her thoughts on thoughtful holiday appreciation gifts for clients that aren't a "craft chore"! 🏷️ Episode Hashtags: #GroomPod #DogGrooming #TriggerStacking #StressBucketTheory #DogBehavior #CanineCommunication #TeaTreeOil #Melaleuca #GroomingSafety #PetWellness