Episode 01: What Is a Grooming VA and Could This Be for You?
Welcome to the first episode of Beyond the Table — the podcast for pet professionals exploring life after grooming. Hosted by River Lee (Step Away From the Table) and Jess Frangos (Groomer Support Services), this episode dives into what it means to be a Grooming Virtual Assistant (VA) and how this growing career path offers flexibility, freedom, and creative fulfillment for groomers looking for their next chapter.
Topics Covered:
1. What is a Grooming VA?
Not the same as a virtual receptionist
Focuses on back-end and administrative support
Can include scheduling, systems setup, social media help, website updates, and client communication
2. Why It’s a Fit for Groomers:
Familiarity with grooming-specific needs and language
Groomers have transferable skills (organization, communication, breed knowledge)
Opportunities to stay in the industry without the physical toll
3. Flexible Work Models:
Project-based or hourly
Part-time or full-time
Options to specialize (social media, systems, onboarding, etc.)
4. The VA Career Path:
Can grow into project or business management roles
Multiple tiers of work based on interest and skill
Space for creative problem solving and visual design tasks
5. Real-World Experiences:
River and Jess share their personal stories of transitioning into VA work
Tips for grooming business owners to work with VAs effectively
Highlighting red flags, industry-specific policies, and how VA insight is unique compared to general admin help
6. Creativity in VA Work:
Creating visually appealing content
Solving business problems with custom workflows
Supporting branding, messaging, and systems-building
7. How to Start:
Can be done alongside grooming
Start with one client or a few hours a week
Learn as you go, grow your skills with time
Key Takeaways
Being a VA allows groomers to stay in the industry in a new way
You can start small and scale as you learn
Creativity and problem-solving are core parts of the role
You don’t need to "jump the shark" — test the waters before going all in
There’s increasing demand for industry-savvy VAs
Learn More
Jess Frangos: Groomer Support Services
River Lee: Step Away From the Table & Savvy Groomer
Whether you're a grooming business owner looking to delegate or a groomer seeking a fresh chapter, this episode breaks down the what, why, and how of grooming virtual assistant work. Tune in and take the first step beyond the table.
