Meet Rio Brown

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rio Brown. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Rio, so happy you were able to devote some time to sharing your thoughts and wisdom with our community. So, we’ve always admired how you have seemingly never let nay-sayers or haters keep you down. Can you talk to us about how to persist despite the negative energy that so often is thrown at folks trying to do something special with their lives?

I will be honest, it is not always easy. Ultimately, I launched my business right before a pandemic, which is so crazy to think about. Being where I am today further proves that I can flourish in adversity. While others may doubt or try to diminish my choice of profession, their negativity only fuels my drive. I have to actively make the choice to stay focused on the bigger picture, adapt to challenges, learn from mistakes and remain committed to my success. My reputation speaks louder than anyone’s jealousy.

One of my favorite quotes is from Leah Remillet-

“Haters don’t hate you…The reality is, they fear that they will never be able to get to where you are right now.”

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am the owner of a spooky pet sitting business, Night of the Living Pets! We provide top-notch, luxury services for pet owners in the San Fernando Valley and Greater Los Angeles area all year round. Spending my days surrounded by animals is the ultimate dream. Not to mention all the rad people I have been able to connect with over the last 5 years! There is SO much to be excited about when it comes to my business and the direction it’s going! There is lots of things in the works behind the scenes and I cannot wait to keep making the ideas swimming around in my head a reality. Night of the Living Pets has become more than a business, it’s become a super cute animal cult. And who wouldn’t want to be a part of that?!

This year, I have really focused on making connections with the community and rescues because now that Night of the Living Pets has a larger platform, I want to use it in any way I can to help animals! One really big accomplishment that is of note is we now work closely with Paws For Life K9 Rescue in Mission Hills. If you do not know who they are, do yourselves a favor and look them up now. They are such a unique and special rescue that deserves all the attention! I look forward to a future of spreading animal rescue awareness along side of them! We have also partnered up with Lawless Brewing in North Hollywood! They host a “yappy hour” the first Sunday of every month from 4pm-6pm that is focused on patrons and their pets! Who wouldn’t want to spend a few hours ending the weekend with locally brewed beer and doggos?!

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

• Quality – My ridiculously extroverted personality! This has been a key factor in my success. By effortlessly connecting with humans (and animals), I have built a strong foundation of trust. Being approachable and charismatic has greatly helped me expand through word-of-mouth referrals. If I see you with a dog, be prepared to be stopped by me so I can say hi. Whether it’s making new clients feel at ease or maintaining transparency, my social nature has allowed me to foster a community around the services that Night of the Living Pets offers, enhancing both customer loyalty and satisfaction!

• Skills – Communication, customer service, time management and organization! These are all incredibly crucial for building a foundation of trust with pet owners and staff members. Possessing these skills allows me to juggle a multitude of responsibilities. These are all definitely learned skills, but I am fortunate enough to say it comes rather natural to me.

• Area of knowledge – Pet care, duh! This includes different breeds, behaviors, health and first aid to name a few! This knowledge is essential to ensure the well-being of any pets that we take care of. Also, marketing! Knowing your target audience, how to engage on social media platforms, connecting with your community is crucial to growth. Lastly, understanding basic financial management, from pricing strategies to budgeting. This will ensure the long-term success and sustainability of any business.

My advice to anyone who is in the early stages of a journey similar to mine:

• Don’t grow faster than you are prepared for.
• Remember it is okay to say “no.”
• Know your limits.
• Create personal/professional boundaries for yourself.
• Hire a business mentor/coach.
• Hire a CPA.
• Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because you will learn from them.
• Never feel threatened by a similar business because there is room for everyone.
• Do NOT compare your journey to anyone else’s because yours is special on its own.
• Remember you are human, not a robot, and that is OK.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Oh my goodness, yes!!!!

It would be amazing to partner up or collaborate with any pet product (apparel, treats, etc…) company, groomers, dog trainers, animal behaviorist, pet owners/lovers with a large social media platform, all of it!

I believe I was put on this earth to make a difference in the world, and more specifically the pet world! The more collaborations/partnerships with likeminded people or companies would be HUGE!

If anyone is looking to connect with me, please visit our website and fill out a contact form or shoot me an email at nightofthelivingpets@gmail.com.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nightofthelivingpets.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nightofthelivingpets/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nightofthelivingpets