We’re looking forward to introducing you to Mandy Zatorski. Check out our conversation below.
Mandy, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I am so proud of what my training business has grown into. In April we had our open house and opened our new location in Manchester MO. We now have two physical locations in West County and we continue to grow.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am the owner and head trainer at Mandy K9 LLC. I am a certified trainer and certified behavior consultant. What most people don’t know is that dog training is a heavily saturated and unregulated field. Anyone can be a dog trainer and no certifications nor experience is required. I have worked in the animal related field for 24 years now. That includes experience in kennel and shelter management, animal cruelty investigations, work as a vet technician, and dog training and behavior. I also run a nonprofit rescue, Missouri K9 Friends.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
What breaks the bonds between people? Dishonesty. Even when the truth hurts, it has value. Lying will destroy a relationship.
What restores them? Empathy and Active Listening
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Of course, multiple times. I am a domestic violence survivor. Without going into the gruesome details I will say I am lucky to be alive today. I am now married to an amazing and supportive man who treats me with respect and the love I deserve.
I suffered from Lyme Disease and was actually disabled for several years. I almost went blind, and was in a wheelchair. It was a dark time in my life and I found myself not wanting to wake up in the morning. Luckily I won the battle against Lyme and went into remission.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
100%, I always say it how it is. I’m a very blunt and up front person. Some people respect that and other’s don’t like it. You either accept me for who I am or you don’t. I will not change myself to cater to anyone nor to society. I will always stand up for what I believe in and I will always stand up for those that can’t stand up for themselves.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope those close to me will remember me as someone that fought for what mattered most, and a voice for the voiceless. I hope I am remembered as someone with honor and integrity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://MandyK9.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MandyK9LLC
Image Credits
Stephanie with Zettl Photography Ltd
