705: The Numbers You're Ignoring (and Why They Matter) with Chante Dawston

Ready to earn a CEU? Start here! Are you truly making money in your pet care business, or just staying busy? In this episode, we sit down with CPA Chante Dawston to unpack what "knowing your numbers" actually means. We explore why record keeping is more than a tax requirement and how it directly impacts your decision-making. We also discuss cash flow, profit, and the hidden dangers of growing without understanding your costs. This conversation will help you move from guessing to confidently leading your business with clarity. Main topics: Importance of financial record keeping Profit vs cash flow clarity Budgeting and expense planning strategies Pricing adjustments and inflation impact Building consistent financial habits Main takeaway: "I think the biggest thing that can be a superpower for you in your business, on the financial side, is consistency." Consistency doesn't sound flashy. It doesn't feel like a breakthrough strategy. But when it comes to your finances, it might be the most powerful habit you can build. You don't need hours of analysis or a finance degree to start understanding your business. You just need to show up regularly. Even 15 minutes a week can completely change how you see your numbers. That small rhythm builds awareness. Awareness builds confidence. And confidence leads to better decisions. If you've been avoiding your numbers, don't overhaul everything overnight. Just start showing up consistently—and let that habit do the heavy lifting. About our guest: Chante Dawston is a CPA and the owner of C Squared Accounting, a firm specializing in financial services for small businesses in the pet care industry. With over a decade of experience, including time as an auditor at Deloitte, she brings a strong analytical and practical approach to business finances. Chante helps pet care professionals better understand their numbers, improve profitability, and build sustainable financial systems. She is passionate about making accounting accessible and actionable for everyday business owners. Links: Ready to earn a CEU? Start here! Website: https://petcare.c-squaredaccounting.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/csquaredaccounting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chantedawston/ Check out our Starter Packs See all of our discounts! 📞 Call us: (636) 364-8260 Follow us on: Instagram, Facebook Email us at: [email protected] Full show notes and transcript Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Pet Sitter Confessional, its hosts, or sponsors. We interview individuals based on their experience and expertise within the pet care industry. Any statements made outside of this platform, or unrelated to the topic discussed, are solely the responsibility of the guest. Sponsored by: ❤️ Our AMAZING Patreon Supporters   Critter to turn insights into action. Use 'PSC20' for 20% off your first three months   Pet Marketing Unleashed Visit: petmarketingunleashed.com Use code PSC15 to save 15% on your website template