Meet Jai Fletcher | CEO of woman owned holistic pet care

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

Hi Jai, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
PawGone Good is dedicated to improving pet health and creating lasting social impact in our community

Promoting Pet Oral Health:

We are collaborating with National organizations and local canine dentists to provide oral cleanings for dogs, raising awareness about oral care and reducing dental-related health issues in pets.

Supporting Sustainable and Healthy Choices:

We focus on eliminating over-processed pet food by creating products made with simple, organic ingredients. By partnering with local farmers, we ensure high-quality ingredients while supporting the agricultural community and fostering economic growth.

Empowering Future Entrepreneurs and Workforce Development:

Our PawPreneur Youth Accelerator Program equips high school students with hands-on experience in business, agriculture, and the pet care industry. After completing the program, students have access to entrepreneurial and workforce opportunities, including internships, mentorship, and job placements, creating pathways to long-term success.

What should our readers know about your business?
Starting my classes, securing sponsorships from Ohio State University, and earning support from leaders like Councilman Nick Bankston was no small feat. Bootstrapping the entire process was challenging, but by God’s grace, I accomplished it all in less than 60 days. My guiding principle is this: if God isn’t in it, I don’t want to be a part of it. A dream that identified a real need, paired with execution, a plan with an exit strategy, strong relationships, and discipline, got me to where I am today.

At PawGone Good, we are dedicated to pet wellness and education. From understanding which ingredients are most effective for specific breeds and life stages to ensuring responsible sourcing, we’re working to reshape how people care for their pets. But what sets us apart isn’t just our products—it’s our holistic approach to making a difference.

Our Pawlicious Organic Potato Chips for Dogs eliminate over-processed foods by using organic, locally sourced ingredients. Beyond that, we’re educating pet owners about pet wellness and empowering the next generation through our PawPreneur Youth Accelerator Program, which equips minority youth with tools to thrive in the pet industry.

Was it easy? Not at all. I’ve learned that starting a business is about more than just having a great product or service. The day you open your business is the day you create your exit strategy. Without marketing, you have a business no one knows about but you. Networking, staying updated on trends through continued education, and building new relationships are essential. Being willing to pivot and adapt to new information or challenges is a lesson I’ve embraced over time.

Some of the most important lessons I’ve learned are:

Execution with a plan and purpose matters. A business can’t thrive without clear direction and an end goal.
Marketing is non-negotiable. If no one knows you exist, you don’t have a business—you have a hobby.

Networking and education are lifelong commitments. Staying connected to your industry and adapting to trends keeps your business relevant.

Relationships and resilience are key. Invest in people, be open to feedback, and never lose sight of why you started.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Brunch at Northstar Cafe, crafting at Makers Social, and dinner at Cooper’s Hawk.

Day 2: Breakfast at SuperChef’s, explore Experience Columbus, and enjoy a rooftop movie after dinner at Veritas.

Day 3: Network at a Chamber of Commerce Event, lunch at Skillet, and dinner at Hyde Park with cocktails at Butcher and Rose.

Day 4: Brunch at Lindey’s, explore the Short North Arts District, and Taco Tuesday at El Asadero.

Day 5: Coffee at The Junto Hotel, attend a Black Achievers or ThriveIN Event, and dinner at The Guild House.

Day 6: Hike at Highbanks Metro Park, lunch at Woodbury, and dinner at Nada.

Day 7: Brunch at Skillet, visit the Scioto Mile, and wrap up with dinner at Veritas.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a huge shoutout to the Black Pet Business Network for being an incredible conduit to resources, instructional events, and opportunities that have propelled me forward. A special thank you to Lashonda Geffrard, who embodies the definition of a gate opener—her dedication to supporting others in this space is unmatched.

I’m also deeply grateful to Rachel Sheppard of the LEAP program and Paige Ellen from Michelson Found Animals for their invaluable advisory, consultancy, and advocacy. Their guidance has not only strengthened me but also the programs I’m building to empower others.

Finally, a heartfelt acknowledgment to my fellow cohort members, Danielle Speaks of PAWS, and Amber and CW from ShowDawg Co. Your resilience, innovation, and passion as African American women in the pet industry inspire me every day. We’ve weathered storms together and continue to break barriers, and I couldn’t ask for better peers on this journey. Thank you all!

Website: https://www.pawgonegood.com

Instagram: @pawgonegood

Linkedin: HTTPS://www.linkedin.com/in/jerrica-fletcher

Facebook: @pawgonegood