In this episode, I'm diving deep into the world of online reviews with Daniel Vivarelli, the founder of Star Loop. If you've ever wondered how to consistently get genuine five-star reviews for your veterinary practice—or any local business—this episode is packed with actionable strategies and real-world insights. Daniel shares the unique approach Star Loop uses, like planting a tree for every review, and we explore why this kind of meaningful incentive works so much better than the usual coffee cards or discounts. We also get into the psychology behind why clients don't leave reviews (even when they love your clinic), how reviews impact your SEO and client acquisition, and the best ways to ask for feedback without feeling awkward or salesy.

We cover everything from the nuts and bolts of crafting the perfect review request—timing, language, and delivery—to the legal pitfalls you need to avoid, like fake reviews and compliance issues. Daniel and I also talk about how Google My Business and local SEO are evolving, and why reviews are more important than ever with the rise of AI and voice search. Plus, we get specific about the unique challenges veterinary practices face, especially when it comes to sensitive situations, and how to empower your team to ask for reviews authentically and compassionately.

Whether you're a practice manager, a local business owner, or just looking to up your marketing game, this episode will give you a step-by-step playbook for building a five-star reputation that stands out in your community. I break down each tip with practical advice you can implement right away, so you can start seeing results—more reviews, more trust, and more new clients walking through your door. Don't miss this one if you want to future-proof your practice and become the go-to clinic in your area!

In this episode, I wanted to share my comprehensive guide on how to build a world-class referral program for your veterinary practice. Referrals are truly the lifeblood of so many successful clinics, but the reality is that most practices don't have a structured system in place to maximize this powerful growth channel. I'll walk you through why referrals matter so much, the data behind their impact, and — most importantly — how you can create a referral engine that consistently brings in high-quality clients and strengthens your reputation in the community.

We'll start by talking about the foundation: delivering remarkable client experiences that naturally inspire word-of-mouth. I'll share actionable ideas for creating those memorable "wow" moments, from handwritten thank-you notes to personalized video messages and unique welcome gifts. Then, I'll break down how to skillfully and confidently ask for referrals without feeling awkward or "salesy," including scripts and open-ended questions that actually get results. Plus, I'll cover how to make referrals easy and trackable — using everything from referral cards to digital tools and pre-written messages your clients can share with friends.

But it doesn't stop there. I'll dive into designing compelling referral incentives that motivate both your clients and their friends, and I'll show you how to expand your referral network beyond just clients by partnering with local businesses like groomers, trainers, and pet stores. We'll also discuss the importance of following up and recognizing your top referrers, tracking and optimizing your program, and getting your whole team on board for maximum impact. To top it off, I'll share ideas for running referral campaigns and events that really boost engagement and excitement.

By the end of this episode, you'll have a step-by-step blueprint for building a referral program that's not only effective but also sustainable for the long haul. Whether you're just getting started or looking to take your existing program to the next level, you'll find practical strategies you can implement right away. If you have your own referral success story or need help getting started, I'd love to hear from you — let's work together to build thriving veterinary practices!

In this episode, I dive deep into the state of veterinary marketing in 2024 alongside Trace, our Gen Z marketing guru and Customer Success Manager. Drawing from our hands-on experience managing over $600,000 in monthly ad spend and working with 50–60 veterinary practice owners each week, we break down what's working, what's not, and how you can set your practice up for success in today's fast-changing landscape. We cover everything from adapting to seasonality and economic shifts, to leveraging the latest digital platforms and creating messaging that truly converts.

We start by exploring the unique challenges and opportunities facing veterinary practices right now — like how seasonality and economic trends impact client behavior, and why it's crucial to plan your marketing proactively rather than reactively. I share actionable strategies for staying ahead of slow periods, monitoring local trends, and making sure your campaigns are always ready to deploy when you need them most. We also talk about the massive impact of organic social media and video content, especially for reaching Gen Z and Millennial pet owners who are living on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. I give you practical tips for showcasing your practice authentically, testing content organically, and remixing what works to maximize engagement.

Paid advertising is another big focus in this episode. We dig into the nuts and bolts of Google Ads, Performance Max campaigns, and the often-overlooked power of display ads. I walk you through setting realistic budgets, targeting the right demographics, and tracking your results for true ROI. Plus, we discuss the importance of direct response messaging, unique offers, and building a nurture funnel that actually converts leads into appointments. And of course, we can't ignore the evolving search landscape — so we cover why your Google My Business profile still matters, how AI is changing the way clients find you, and the critical role of reviews in building trust.

Finally, I share insights on outbound marketing, the vital importance of well-trained CSRs, and how to avoid common pitfalls that hold practices back. We wrap up with a look at the future — highlighting the growing role of AI, the need for proactive planning, and the value of a strong partnership with your marketing team. Whether you're looking to optimize your current strategies or future-proof your practice, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable advice to help you thrive in 2024 and beyond.