The Scoop on Purpose: Turning Overlooked Work into Impactful Careers

What happens when you take a seemingly mundane service and infuse it with dignity, joy, and a mission to serve the planet?

Julie Harrell, President of Cooper Scoopers, is doing just that. Her company may be in the pet waste removal business, but behind the cheeky name and boots-on-the-ground service lies a movement rooted in social good, environmental responsibility, and deep respect for every person—and every pet—they serve.

In a recent episode of The Bliss Business Podcast, Julie shared how a startup with seven locations (and growing fast) is redefining what it means to lead with purpose in the franchise world. And why she believes even the most overlooked jobs can become meaningful careers when built on heart-centered values.

From Poop to Purpose

The origin story of Cooper Scoopers isn’t what you’d expect. It started with a granddaughter watching her aging grandparents struggle to keep a backyard clean and safe for their dog—and their grandchildren. That moment sparked an idea: what if you could offer a service that went beyond convenience, and actually helped people stay connected to what matters most?

Julie stepped into the role of President in December and has since turned the company into a growing franchise built on three core principles: dignity, safety, and opportunity. But Cooper Scoopers isn’t just about waste removal. It’s about creating clean spaces, caring for public health, and making a real difference for families, pets, and the planet.

Leading with Love, Loyalty, and Laughter

While many leaders rely on systems and performance metrics to drive franchise growth, Julie begins with people. “We treat every role as essential,” she says. From technicians to franchise owners, everyone is trained and celebrated for their contributions. New hires aren’t just taught how to scoop. They’re taught how to show up with kindness, attention to detail, and a sense of pride.

Franchisees are supported through a hands-on communication system and a growing internal network that encourages collaboration. “You might be in your own territory,” Julie explains, “but you’re never alone.” That spirit of teamwork is contagious—showing up in how employees serve customers and in how customers begin to see the company as more than just a utility.

Empathy, Operationalized

With over 70% of households in the U.S. owning pets, and over half owning dogs, the demand for pet services is growing. But Cooper Scoopers is differentiating itself by going beyond basic cleanup. Technicians are trained to alert pet owners to potential hazards, like open gates or broken fence posts, and even diet-related health concerns visible through pet waste.

That care extends to community education and engagement too. Whether partnering with the SPCA or educating families on the environmental risks of backyard waste, Julie is clear about one thing: “Growth doesn’t mean letting go of purpose. It means spreading it wider.”

Scaling a Clean Business with a Clean Conscience

Cooper Scoopers is still in the early stages of expansion, but Julie already has her sights set on something big—3,000 trucks across the nation, each operating with eco-conscious practices and a deep respect for the families they serve.

With waste disposal becoming a growing concern for landfills, Julie is exploring innovative ways to treat pet waste more sustainably. Composting is complex due to protein content, but her team is committed to staying on the cutting edge of environmentally safe disposal methods. In the meantime, biodegradable tools and products are a non-negotiable standard.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

• Why even unglamorous industries can drive real social impact

• How to build loyalty by treating every role as essential

• The power of clear values in attracting franchisees and customers

• How early-stage businesses can protect their culture while scaling

• Why mentorship and team support are essential for sustainable leadership

Julie reminds us that success doesn’t come from glossy pitch decks or over-engineered systems. It comes from doing the small things with intention, care, and love. Even something as simple as locking a gate or giving a treat to a beloved family dog becomes part of a greater purpose—one that is felt in every yard they visit.

At Cooper Scoopers, purpose isn’t a tagline. It’s a tool. A system. A culture. A north star.

And if this kind of heart-centered leadership can blossom in a business that deals with dog poop, imagine what’s possible for the rest of us.

Final Thoughts

Julie Harrell is showing that profit and purpose don’t have to be in conflict. They can be co-pilots. As Cooper Scoopers continues its rapid expansion, it’s doing so with a commitment to environmental responsibility, community connection, and love as a business advantage. Whether you’re managing a franchise or mentoring the next generation of leaders, Julie’s story is a reminder that every business—no matter how humble—can leave the world a little better than it found it.

Check out our full conversation with Julie Harrell on The Bliss Business Podcast.