Don shares his background in the pet treat industry and how he helped a company bring its products to market. Along the way, he connected with others in the holistic pet space and decided to take the leap. One product that especially caught his attention was freeze-dried food.

Cass shares how one of her puppies was struggling with severe allergies and how many of those issues improved through healthier pet food choices.

Don encourages pet owners to shop with intention — not just by the brand name or flashy packaging on the front of the bag. Most of us were never taught how to read ingredient labels properly, and Don is passionate about explaining what each ingredient actually does for our pets.

We also chat about his store in Woodstock and the many of his fun customers (both two- and four-legged!) who stop in to visit.

Visit this link, then visit the store! https://www.pawstock.pet or you can have your items shipped!

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All material, unless otherwise stated, is written and performed by The Clopen Effect.

In this episode, we sat down with Alex, owner of Hometown Hug, the heart behind those unforgettable welcome baskets for new homeowners in McHenry County. 💛

They’re best known for their HomeTown Hug baskets — thoughtfully curated gifts that personally introduce over 700 new homeowners each year to the incredible local businesses and nonprofits that make this community thrive.

We talked about what it really means to support local — not just shopping small during the holidays, but building genuine connections, creating referrals that matter, and helping new residents feel instantly at home. Hometown Hug isn’t just dropping off baskets… they’re building bridges between neighbors and business owners.

If you’ve ever moved somewhere new and wished someone would hand you a “start here” guide with a warm smile, this is that — just way better.

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Support the show and advertising opportunity: https://the-clopen-effect.captivate.fm/support

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🟢 30 Days to Building Resilience in the Workplace: https://www.udemy.com/course/buildingresilienceatwork_in30days/?referralCode=BD92C36502C5E19AA273

All material, unless otherwise stated, is written and performed by The Clopen Effect.

Alyssa joined us from The Fiber Fellowship, an organization that supports several local charities, including Animal Outreach and oncology centers in the area. They also create fidget squares for emergency responders - very impressive.

And Kishwaukee Brewing Company is here!

Listen in to this week’s episode as Cara and Heather chat about all the fun events happening at the brewery this year. Plus, hear about their newest awards (because yes… they’re absolutely crushing it ). Grab a drink, hit play, and get the inside scoop. Cheers!

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Support the show and advertising opportunity: https://the-clopen-effect.captivate.fm/support

Buy Our Cool Merch: https://www.zazzle.com/the_clopen_effect_t_shirt-256038010043042814

💩 Check Out Our Other Podcast – Anxiety Makes Me Poop: https://linktr.ee/anxietymakesmepoop

🟢 30 Days to Building Resilience in the Workplace: https://www.udemy.com/course/buildingresilienceatwork_in30days/?referralCode=BD92C36502C5E19AA273

All material, unless otherwise stated, is written and performed by The Clopen Effect.