EPISODE 5: Our First Foursome

Welcome back to the Bubble Bath Boardroom! For the first time on Mr. & Mrs. CEO, Darren & I had our first podcast foursome, where we were joined by our friends — Nikki & Steph, co-founders of Dog Jogs.

No… it wasn’t THAT kind of foursome!

Here’s Nikki & Steph’s story…

Blurring Lines & Breaking Leashes: The Entrepreneurial Journey of Nikki & Steph

In the realm of entrepreneurship, where the unconventional becomes the norm, Nikki & Steph embody the spirit of innovation that defines family businesses. Their adventure, peppered with the unique challenges and rewards of working alongside your spouse, offers invaluable insights into the entrepreneurial journey, a tale not just of business, but of love, commitment, and the joy of running (literally) with an idea that sparks a revolution.

From Ball Hockey to Business Partners

Their story begins on the ball hockey court, where competition and camaraderie laid the foundation for what would become more than just a personal relationship. Nikki & Steph's connection, rooted in shared interests and mutual respect, eventually led them down the entrepreneurial path, driven by a simple yet profound idea: Dog Jogs. Inspired by Nikki's experience with her own dog, Koda, and the challenges of ensuring he received enough exercise while managing long shifts, they identified a niche market that was underserved: dog owners with high-energy pets who struggled to balance their demanding jobs with their furry friends' needs.

A Leap of Faith into Entrepreneurship

The transition from employees to entrepreneurs is often fraught with uncertainty and fear. Nikki & Steph were no strangers to these feelings, juggling full-time jobs while nurturing their fledgling business. Yet, their dedication to their vision and their willingness to embrace the unknown paid off. Dog Jogs has become more than a side hustle; it has transformed into a thriving business that addresses a real need within their community.

More Than Just a Walk in the Park

What sets Dog Jogs apart isn't just the unique service it provides, but the philosophy that underpins it. For Nikki & Steph, Dog Jogs is a labor of love — a service that goes beyond mere exercise to ensure the well-being of the dogs and peace of mind for their owners. This commitment to both care and quality has been the cornerstone of their business, helping them navigate the inevitable ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

Navigating Business & Relationship

Working with your partner can present a unique set of challenges and rewards. Nikki & Steph have found strength in their partnership, leveraging their individual strengths, and supporting each other through the tough times. Their story is a testament to the power of communication, mutual respect, and shared goals. Like many entrepreneurial couples, they've found rituals that help them separate work from personal life, ensuring that their relationship thrives alongside their business.

The COVID-19 Pivot: Lessons in Adaptability

The pandemic forced many businesses to reassess their operations, and Dog Jogs was no exception. Nikki & Steph used this period of uncertainty to refine their business model, focusing on what truly mattered: serving their clients and their pets with the highest level of care, while also ensuring their own well-being. This adaptability not only helped them survive but thrive, highlighting the importance of flexibility in the face of adversity.

A Future Built on Four Legs

As Nikki & Steph look to the future, they envision Dog Jogs as not only a business, but as a community pillar that supports pet owners and their furry companions. Their journey from ball hockey teammates to business partners and spouses is a compelling narrative of passion, perseverance, and the joy of turning a simple idea into a life-changing venture.

Their story is an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those venturing into the world of family business with their partners. It illustrates that with the right mix of love, dedication, and a willingness to run the extra mile (or jog, in this case), anything is possible.