From standout to award-winning: What it takes to build a business people remember

What does it take to become the 2026 NAPPS Business of the Year?

In this webinar, PetPocketbook sits down with Kristen Holzapfel, owner of Pampered Pupperinos & Pals, to discuss the journey from launching a solo pet care business to becoming one of the industry's most recognized professionals. Along the way, Kristen shares the decisions, mindset, and community-first approach that helped her build a business known for exceptional care and meaningful relationships.

Rather than focusing on growth hacks or quick wins, this conversation explores how collaboration, networking, community involvement, and staying true to your values can create long-term success. Kristen also shares honest lessons about setting boundaries, avoiding burnout, evolving your services, and knowing when it's time to grow.  

Whether you're just starting your pet care business or looking for new ways to stand out in your market, you'll leave this conversation with practical ideas you can begin applying right away.

In this webinar, you'll learn

• Why collaboration creates stronger businesses than competition.
• How community involvement helps build trust and referrals.
• The importance of setting boundaries as your business grows.
• Networking strategies that generate long-term opportunities.
• Kristen's advice for growing sustainably while avoiding burnout.

Watch the webinar

Watch the full conversation below to hear Kristen's story, her biggest lessons learned, and the advice that helped earn her the title of 2026 NAPPS Business of the Year.

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Jump to a topic

• 6:10 – How Kristen got started in pet care
• 16:30 – Becoming NAPPS Business of the Year
• 21:00 – Collaboration over competition
• 25:00 – Building the Midwest Pet Sitter Affiliates
• 41:00 – The biggest business decisions that fueled growth
• 48:45 – How to stand out in your local market
• 54:15 – What success looks like today
• 58:00 – Kristen's biggest advice for pet care business owners