We had the good fortune of connecting with Chloe Clark and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chloe, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Simply Sage Dog Treats is not my first business. My background is in the creative industry, where I worked as a graphic and web designer and ran a food photography business. While I found fulfillment in creative work, I always aspired to launch a product-based business. That opportunity eventually presented itself, though not in the way I initially expected.

In 2015, I adopted a two-month-old Jack Russell–Chihuahua mix from a local animal shelter. Her name is Sage. What I didn’t realize at the time was that she would become the inspiration behind a pet wellness brand that now supports dogs and cats dealing with similar issues.

Soon after bringing Sage home, I noticed she struggled with digestive issues and environmental allergies. Her constant paw licking, scratching, and skin irritation had us making way too many vet visits, and racking up the bills. I started researching holistic and more affordable alternatives, experimenting with food and homemade treats free from additives and preservatives. That helped a lot with her digestion, but her skin and paws still needed some TLC.

That’s when I got to work in the kitchen, this time not with treats, but with a paw balm and skin salve. I created a natural remedy to soothe her itchy skin and heal her dry, cracked paws. Not only did Sage improve, but friends started asking if they could try the products on their pets. Some even used them on themselves!

In 2016, I launched Simply Sage Dog Treats to offer all-natural solutions for pets with allergies and skin sensitivities. I started with small-batch, herbal-infused dog treats made with chamomile, mint, and rooibos teas. Two years later, I pivoted to focus more on our growing line of pet skincare and grooming products, expanding to include options for both dogs and cats.

What began as a personal journey to help my dog feel better has grown into a mission to support other pet parents looking for safe, effective wellness solutions. For anyone dreaming of building something meaningful, sometimes the best ideas come from solving your own problems first.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Outside of running my own business, I find deep fulfillment in giving back to the entrepreneurial community. I volunteer as a business mentor with SCORE, a well-respected national nonprofit organization that provides free mentoring and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs and small business owners. It’s one of the most meaningful parts of my week, being able to share what I’ve learned over the years and help others shape their vision, develop solid business strategies, and navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Whether someone is just starting with an idea or trying to scale an existing business, I’m honored to be a sounding board and a source of encouragement along the way.

In addition to mentoring, I also maintain a blog where I share educational content with fellow entrepreneurs and small business owners. My blog focuses on practical tools, strategic advice, and marketing approaches that go beyond what you typically find online. I aim to provide a fresh perspective, something that feels actionable and real, not just surface-level tips. From creative ways to reach your audience to building meaningful partnerships, I love writing about the parts of business that inspire momentum and measurable growth.

I hope to empower other business owners to think outside the box, challenge outdated approaches, and confidently build businesses that align with their passions and goals. Whether it’s through mentoring, blogging, or my entrepreneurial journey, I’m committed to encouraging others as they work toward success.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m a big fan of beautiful scenery, and there’s nothing I love more than spending time outdoors at the park! My husband, our pup Sage, and I enjoy hanging out at some of our favorite spots like Peachtree Corners Town Green & The Forum, Duluth’s Town Green, and Historic Norcross. These places always have something going on; live music, events, farmer’s markets, art shows, and a great mix of restaurants, from casual eats to upscale dining.

Whether it’s a sunny afternoon walk, a cozy date night, or brunch with the girls, these areas are perfect for just about any vibe. The scenery is a mix of charming and modern, which makes it feel welcoming and relaxing. Plus, the variety of events and cuisines means there’s always something new to explore. And if you love shopping, the local boutiques and shops don’t disappoint!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I have to give a big shoutout to my husband; he has truly been my biggest cheerleader throughout my entrepreneurial journey. From the very beginning, he has encouraged me to follow my passions and has supported every one of my business ventures, even behind the scenes. Whether it is helping with tasks, listening when I need to make a tough decision, or offering wise advice when I feel unsure, he’s always there.

Having a supportive partner and family has been such a blessing. I know that not every entrepreneur has that kind of support system, and I don’t take it for granted. His dedication to our marriage and belief in my vision keeps me grounded and motivated. If you are starting your journey, I hope you surround yourself with people who encourage you. That kind of support can make all the difference.

Website: https://www.simplysagedogtreats.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplysagedogtreats

Other: https://businessadvicefromchloeclark.com

Image Credits
R. Clark

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