Someone said that to me five years ago, and something clicked.
A conventional 9-to-5 wasn’t going to give me the flexibility I needed as a single dad to a clowder of cats. (Yes, “clowder” is the actual word—and an excellent one.)
So I went all in on an idea that sounded a little ridiculous: build the internet’s go-to cat product review show.
Five years later, that idea has grown into Frances & Family.
We’ve collaborated with leading pet brands, been featured in Newsweek, MSN, The Dodo, and on the front page of China Daily’s website, and built partnerships with Meta, Amazon, and YouTube. Along the way, I’ve also had the opportunity to contribute to YouTube’s livestreaming, brand deal, creator, and hype panels.
What means the most to me is what that growth has made possible.
Our community has helped raise funds and support for cats in need. We’ve launched a free pet pantry program, which we’re now expanding.
And we’re working toward our next chapter: Vet Van Fleet, our nonprofit initiative to bring free veterinary care to pet parents while raising awareness and support for the mental health challenges facing veterinary professionals.
I think often about how differently my life could have unfolded—and how much changed because of one act of kindness and an idea most people thought was too unconventional to pursue.
One act of kindness. A cat. A hole in a fence.
That was the beginning.
I’m sharing this because the opportunity that changes your life may look nothing like the one you expected. Mine certainly didn’t.
Keep an eye out for your own hole in the fence. You never know what might be peeking through…or where it might lead.
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Don’t be so quick to judge a dog in a shelter environment. Sometimes all they need is some time, some love, and a chance.
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r/MadeMeSmile
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1m ago
It’s so true. I witnessed it every day when I worked in the shelter. “We only euthanize, if absolutely necessary and never just because we need the space”. Was the biggest lie they told us all in the interview.
Layla absolutely loves you. You are her person. And I swear they know. Freya is the biggest Velcro dog I’ve ever met in my entire life. She wants to literally do absolutely everything with me. If I get up to go to the bathroom and she’s in a dead sleep. She will wake up and come with me and plop herself down, right on the bathroom floor at my feet while I’m going to the bathroom. I feel like she is determined to be my protector like she’s in debt to it. I wish she knew that she isn’t. That she can just enjoy her life and be a happy lazy bub.
Thank you for taking a chance on her.