My Veterinary Life

Multi-practice owner, consultant, and past president of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Dr. Pam Nichols is this week's guest on My Veterinary Life. She shares actionable tips on effective leadership, cultivating a positive workplace environment, and adapting to change based on her experience owning multiple businesses. Dr. Nichols also delves into her roles as a veterinary practice consultant and why she loves being involved in organized veterinary medicine. We can't wait to share her journey with you!Thank you to our podcast partner, NVA General Practice, a community of 1,000 neighborhood veterinary clinics across the U.S. and Canada. Learn how NVA invests in your career journey at https://GP.NVA.com Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Ashley Wolfe. Dr. Wolfe is the Veterinary Digital Education Senior Specialist at Hill's Pet Nutrition. Throughout the conversation, she shares her experiences as a new graduate during the COVID-19 pandemic, her challenges with burnout, and the importance of mentorship and support systems. The discussion highlights the value of self-reflection, adaptability, and exploring diverse career paths in veterinary medicine, encouraging listeners to embrace change and prioritize personal fulfillment within the profession. We are so excited to share her journey with you.Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

On this episode of the My Veterinary Life podcast, we are thrilled to welcome 2025 AVMA Convention keynote speaker, Megan Leavey. Megan is a former Marine Corps corporal and military police canine handler. She shares her journey from childhood animal lover to military service, where she bonded deeply with her canine partner, Rex. She recounts the challenges of adopting Rex post-service, highlighting the importance of community support. Megan's story transitions to her career in veterinary medicine, balancing motherhood, and her enduring passion for animals. Her narrative underscores perseverance, resilience, and the profound human-animal bond. We can't wait to share her journey with you.  Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Podcast is Patrick Douglas, the first AVMA Trust Veterinary Technician. Patrick discusses his new role, which involves managing claims data for AVMA members, providing educational support, and bridging the gap between veterinarians and support staff. He shares insights from his background in zoo medicine, emphasizing the importance of understanding exotic animal claims. The conversation also touches on the challenges and surprises of his transition from zoo medicine to the AVMA Trust, and the significance of continuous learning and mental health in the veterinary profession. We really enjoyed our time with Patrick and can't wait to share his journey with you! Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guest on this episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Jennifer Welser, a board-certified ophthalmologist and president of Arista Advanced Pet Care. We explore Dr. Welser's experiences in veterinary school, her specialization in ophthalmology, and her transition into business ownership. Dr. Welser emphasizes the importance of mentorship, networking, and embracing risks. She also discusses the shared ownership model at Arista, which supports veterinarians in balancing clinical practice with business management, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. We loved this conversation and can't wait to share her journey with you! Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Alejandra Medina, a fourth-year veterinary student at the University of Pennsylvania, shares her journey on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life podcast. We talk about her perspective as a first-generation student, the challenges of balancing "it all" in veterinary school, and the importance of mentorship. She highlights her involvement in the AVMA Early Career Development Committee and her commitment to community support. We even chat about a little fun outside of vet school at the end! Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald reflects on the changes in veterinary medicine throughout his four decades in the profession-- including 10 seasons on the TV show Emergency Vets-- on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life podcast. These changes have revolutionized animal care, but they also come with challenges. We delve into how keeping updated with new developments while staying true to the heart of vet med is key to providing the best care possible. Catch this episode for a lively discussion on the evolution of our profession!Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Dr. Alexandra McLaughry, owner of BarburVet in Portland, Oregon and Chief Medical Officer for Vet Badger, shares her journey into veterinary medicine in this week's episode. She discusses her career path from veterinary school in Ireland to practice ownership, emphasizes the significance of client communication and adaptability, and highlights the importance of collaboration and continuous learning. The episode also addresses challenges faced by new graduates and the necessity of self-care and personal interests to maintain balance in the veterinary profession.Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a rating and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Paige Durham, a third-year veterinary student at the University of Missouri. During this interview, Paige shares what her experience has been like as a student extern at the AVM A in the Membership and Field Services Division. She discusses balancing being a student, commitments as a local SAVMA president and exploring all that veterinary medicine has to offer. The discussion highlights the challenges and rewards of vet school, the importance of time management, and the diverse opportunities within the veterinary profession. Paige also emphasizes the value of networking and seeking mentorship to navigate career paths effectively.Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Appe Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Dr. Christina Guttuso, founder of Gentle Journey, an in-home pet euthanasia practice in Arizona, shares her journey into veterinary medicine, her transition to in-home euthanasia, and the emotional complexities of her work. The discussion highlights the importance of quality-of-life discussions, effective communication, and addressing compassion fatigue. This episode emphasizes reconnecting with one's passion and finding fulfillment in veterinary practice and we can't wait to share it with you.  Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/. Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Appe Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Welcome to a two-part mini-series focused on mentorship. Our guest on this episode is Dr. Gary Marshall. Dr. Marshall is the current Vice President of the AVMA and has a true passion for giving back and mentorship within veterinary medicine.  Dr. Marshall shares his journey into the profession, highlighting pivotal moments with influential mentors. He emphasizes the reciprocal benefits of mentorship, where both mentors and mentees learn and grow. The conversation also explores Dr. Marshall's involvement in programs like Mentor Vet and Ready Vet Go, offering practical advice for those seeking or considering becoming mentors. The episode aims to inspire listeners to actively participate in mentorship, fostering growth and connection within the veterinary community and we can't wait to share it with you.  Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at https://www.hillspet.com/ and https://www.hillsvet.com/. Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Appe Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Welcome to a two-part mini-series focused on mentorship. Our guest on this episode is Dr. Jesse Navatta. Dr. Navatta is an associate veterinarian as well as a PrideVMC Board Member.  Our focus is discussing how mentorship has impacted their career so far and the benefits of mentorship to mentees. Dr. Navatta highlights the value of both formal and informal mentorship, the significance of affinity groups for networking, and the need for veterinarians to maintain interests outside their profession. Our conversation underscores the evolving landscape of veterinary education and the importance of self-awareness and personal growth and how mentorship can have positive impacts on all of this. We can't wait to share this journey with you.Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at Hill's Pet Nutrition - Dog & Cat Food Transforming Lives and Hill's Vet - Veterinary Health Research, Practice Management Resources.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Appe Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast    

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Beth Hagenlocker. Dr. Hagenlocker is the president of Grace Veterinary Inc and co-founder of Detroit Creativity Project. She shares her unconventional journey into veterinary medicine, highlighting her background in community development and her passion for feline health. The discussion focuses on the transformative role of improvisation (improv) in veterinary practice, emphasizing how improv enhances communication skills, adaptability, and teamwork. Dr. Hagenlocker's insights reveal how these skills can improve interactions with clients and colleagues, ultimately leading to better patient care. This a fun and informative conversation and we can't wait to share it with you.Thank you to our podcast partner Hill's Pet Nutrition! You can find more information about Hill's Pet Nutrition at Hill's Pet Nutrition - Dog & Cat Food Transforming Lives and Hill's Vet - Veterinary Health Research, Practice Management Resources.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Appe Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLpodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast  

Our guest on this episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Peter Weinstein. Dr. Weinstein holds many different roles within the veterinary profession, including but not limited to being president of Simple Solutions for Vets, president of PAW Consulting, and president Veterinary Ownership Advocates, as well as an instructor of business and finance at Western University of Health Sciences College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Weinstein shares his journey into veterinary medicine, inspired by James Herriot's All Creatures Great and Small, and his subsequent career transitions. Emphasizing the importance of financial literacy, regulatory compliance, and effective communication, he offers advice for new graduates on leadership and business skills. The episode underscores the evolving landscape of veterinary practice and the significance of continuous learning and entrepreneurship. We are so excited to share this conversation with you.  We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/   Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org   Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast   

We are thrilled to be sharing our veterinary podcast crossover series with you. Throughout these episodes, we are having conversations with other veterinary podcast hosts who are sharing why they started their podcast and their goals, as well as how we can all work together towards supporting our colleagues in this profession. Today our guest is Dr. Mike Pownall, one of the cohosts of AAEPS's Practice Life Podcast. Throughout this episode, we talk about how we can all learn from each other and that there is something for everyone in each of our shows. We also discuss sharing the challenges, joys and victories of vet med together. It's a wonderful conversation and we can't wait for you to hear it! We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/   To learn more about AAEP's Practice Life Podcast visit: https://aaep.org/news-updates/podcast/ Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org   Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast   

We are thrilled to be sharing our veterinary podcast crossover series with you. Throughout these episodes, we are having conversations with other veterinary podcast hosts who are sharing why they started their podcast and their goals, as well as how we can all work together towards supporting our colleagues in this profession. Today our guests are Drs. Lisa Fortier and Sarah Wright. Dr. Fortier is the editor in chief for the AVMA and Dr. Wright is the associate editor for the AVMA journals. This is a great conversation to understand different ways to utilize “Veterinary Vertex” podcast and want to better understand what you can learn from each episode. They also share some of the bonus questions they add at the end of the episodes which does take us on a slight tangent as we discuss puzzles. If you want this and so much more, be sure to check out the entire episode!   We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/  You can find Veterinary Vertex on all major podcasting platforms.  Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org   Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast 

We are thrilled to be sharing our veterinary podcast crossover series with you. Throughout these episodes, we are having conversations with other veterinary podcast hosts who are sharing why they started their podcast and their goals, as well as how we can all work together towards supporting our colleagues in this profession. Today our guest is Dr. Lisa Greenhill. Dr. Greenhill is the Chief Diversity Officer and senior director for institutional research at AAVMC. She is also the host of “Diversity and Inclusion on Air”. Dr. Greenhill has been at the forefront of veterinary podcasting and YouTube videos so we guarantee you will learn something from this conversation!  We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/  You can find Diversity and Inclusion on Air on all major podcasting platforms.  Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org   Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast   

We are thrilled to be sharing our veterinary podcast crossover series with you. Throughout these episodes, we are having conversations with other veterinary podcast hosts who are sharing why they started their podcast and their goals, as well as how we can all work together towards supporting our colleagues in this profession. Today our guest is Dr. Fred Gingrich. Dr. Gingrich is the executive director of and the host of AABP's podcast, “Have You Herd”. This isn't Fred's first time on our show, so hopefully you'll go back and listen to his previous episode, and I promise you won't be disappointed. We always learn something when he joins the show, and this time is no different. It is a great conversation that covers a lot of ground, including how we can support our rural veterinary colleagues. Be sure to stay tuned until the end to soak up all the great insights. We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/   You can find Have Your Herd on all major podcasting platforms.  Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org   Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast    

Our guest on this episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast, Dr. Madonna Livingstone. Dr. Livingstone is wears a few hats including being a clinical veterinarian that focuses primarily on exotics animals, an author, a lecturer and a laboratory consultant. She shares her journey into veterinary medicine and the challenges she faced due to the lack of focus on exotic animals in the curriculum. She emphasizes the importance of the human-animal bond and the need for better education and support for veterinarians working with exotic pets. Dr. Livingstone also discusses her efforts to demystify exotic animal care and her role in mentoring new veterinarians. It's a great episode filled with wonderful advice for all veterinary professionals. We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/    Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org    Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast  

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Barb Linnehan. Dr. Linnehan is the director of animal health and welfare at the National Marine Mammal Foundation. She shares what her career path has looked like starting with an internship and continuing through to becoming a Diplomate of the American College of Zoological Medicine. There is a lot of ground...or should we say waves…to cover. It's a great conversation and we can't wait to share her journey with you!We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/    Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org   Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast   

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Hanley Defoe, an expert in human resiliency and wellbeing. Dr. Defoe shares insights on resilience, emphasizing the importance of belonging, perspective, acceptance, hope, and humor. The conversation highlights practical strategies for managing stress, setting realistic goals, and prioritizing self-care. The conversation underscores the need for mental health awareness and offers actionable steps to enhance wellbeing, encouraging everyone to embrace their journey with kindness and hope.We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/ Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org  Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast  You can learn more about Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe's work by visiting her website: https://drrobyne.ca/

We are excited to feature another bonus episode form the SAVMA Unleashed Series. SAVMA Unleashed is hosted by SAVMA student leaders, offering an honest and upbeat look into the daily lives of veterinary students. In this inspiring episode, we chat with Amelia Sitzes, a remarkable non-traditional veterinary student who overcame the odds to follow her passion for veterinary medicine. Amelia shares her incredible journey of transitioning from a career as a human chiropractor to starting veterinary school. From managing major career shifts and overcoming personal challenges to balancing life outside of school, Amelia's story highlights the resilience, determination, and unique perspective she brings to the profession.

This month we are starting a series called “Leading from Where You Are.” Throughout these episodes, we are diving deep into leadership within the veterinary field, exploring it from various perspectives—whether you're a seasoned practitioner, a student, or an expert in leadership. We'll discuss why it's crucial to embrace leadership no matter where you are in your career, reflecting on lessons we'd give our younger selves, and exploring ways to grow and lead more effectively. Our guest today is Tara Barron. Tara is a fourth-year veterinary student at LMU, the current SAVMA president and the brilliance behind the idea for this series. We had the best time learning from her leadership journey and are so thrilled to share it with you.  We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/  Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast 

This month we are starting a series called “Leading from Where You Are.” Throughout these episodes, we are diving deep into leadership within the veterinary field, exploring it from various perspectives—whether you're a seasoned practitioner, a student, or an expert in leadership. We'll discuss why it's crucial to embrace leadership no matter where you are in your career, reflecting on lessons we'd give our younger selves, and exploring ways to grow and lead more effectively. Our guest today is Dr. Kendall Putnam. Dr. Putnam is a small animal veterinarian and medical director at Animal Doctors of South Tampa. We had the best time chatting with her and can't wait to share this conversation.  We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/  Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast   

This month we are starting a series called “Leading from Where You Are.” Throughout these episodes, we are diving deep into leadership within the veterinary field, exploring it from various perspectives—whether you're a seasoned practitioner, a student, or an expert in leadership. We'll discuss why it's crucial to embrace leadership no matter where you are in your career, reflecting on lessons we'd give our younger selves, and exploring ways to grow and lead more effectively. Our guest today is Alyssa Mages. Alyssa is a credentialed veterinary technician, co-founder of Empowering Veterinary Teams, and the director of Mentor Vet Tech. This is an uplifting, surprising and extremely insightful conversation and we are so excited to share it with you.  We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/  Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast 

This month we are starting a series called “Leading from Where You Are.” Throughout these episodes, we are diving deep into leadership within the veterinary field, exploring it from various perspectives—whether you're a seasoned practitioner, a student, or an expert in leadership. We'll discuss why it's crucial to embrace leadership no matter where you are in your career, reflecting on lessons we'd give our younger selves, and exploring ways to grow and lead more effectively. Our guest today is Dr. Amanda Bisol. Dr. Bisol is a small animal general practitioner, a member of the AVMA Board of Directors, a mom, and she recently graduated from law school.  It's a great conversation and we are so excited to share her insights with you.  We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/  Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast 

This month we are starting a series called “Leading from Where You Are.” Throughout these episodes, we are diving deep into leadership within the veterinary field, exploring it from various perspectives—whether you're a seasoned practitioner, a student, or an expert in leadership. We'll discuss why it's crucial to embrace leadership no matter where you are in your career, reflecting on lessons we'd give our younger selves, and exploring ways to grow and lead more effectively. Our guest today is Josh Vaisman. Josh is the co-founder of Flourish Veterinary Consulting, the author of Lead to Thrive and holds a master's in applied positive psychology and coaching psychology. We are so excited to share this conversation with you!  We want to share a big thank you to our sponsor CareCredit. You can learn more about Veterinary Patient Financing for Providers through CareCredit by visiting: https://www.carecredit.com/providers/animal-healthcare/Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast 

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Connie De Haan. Dr. De Haan is a board-certified radiologist with IDEXX. She shares her unconventional journey into veterinary medicine, beginning with her initial interest in forestry and wildlife. She discusses her hands-on experiences that led her to veterinary medicine and her eventual specialization in radiology. The conversation highlights the importance of embracing opportunities, networking, and maintaining a work-life balance. Dr. De Haan's story underscores the diverse paths within veterinary careers and the value of perseverance and adaptability. It's a great conversation and we can't wait to share it with you.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.org Follow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast 

Dr. Sally Colgan, president of the Australian Veterinary Association, shares her journey on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life podcast, highlighting her experiences in as an equine surgeon, her work on projects like a kangaroo sterilization program, and ultimately her career transition to organized veterinary medicine. Dr. Colgan emphasizes professional development, the significance of policy in veterinary practice, and the evolving demographics of the profession. The episode underscores the importance of collaboration, mental health awareness, and advocacy in veterinary medicine. It's a great conversation and we can't wait to share her journey with you!Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Shannon Bray, a small animal internist and medical manager at IDEXX. Dr. Bray shares her wandering journey into veterinary medicine, emphasizing the importance of exploring diverse opportunities and experiences. She offers four key pieces of advice: surround yourself with supportive voices, remain open to learning, embrace your passions, and say yes to new opportunities. The episode highlights the value of mentorship and the various paths to success within the veterinary field. It's a great conversation and we can't wait to share her journey with you.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

In this episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast, we are joined by Mr. Randolph Legg. Mr. Legg is the President and Head of Commercial Business at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA. He shares his personal journey and commitment to belonging in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and setting long-term goals. He highlights actionable steps for fostering an inclusive culture and encourages listeners to contribute to positive change within their organizations. It is a great conversation, and we are thrilled to share it with you.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This month we are excited to feature a series called Exploring Vet Med Intersectionality. This is our veterinary take on the sociological concept of intersectionality, which looks at how various social identities interact and impact an individual's experience. We'll be highlighting the stories of individuals from underrepresented communities working in underserved areas of that med, and how their identities impacted their career paths. Our guest today is Dr. Amber Headen. Dr. Headen is the Director of Live Animal Exports with USDA APHIS. She shares what the road to regulatory medicine looked like for her.  It is a great conversation, and we are so excited to have her join us to conclude this series. Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcastIf you would like to learn more about careers at the USDA, please follow this link: https://usda.usajobs.gov/search/results/?d=AG&s=enddate&sd=asc&p=1If you would like to learn more about the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program, please follow this link: https://www.usda.gov/partnerships/1890NationalScholars

We are excited to feature a new bonus series called SAVMA Unleashed. This will be hosted by SAVMA student leaders and offer an honest and upbeat insight into the day-to-day lives of vet students. From mastering challenging couresework to balancing practical skills and self-care, this series will highlight tips on staying successful, active and motiviated while enjoying the journey. In this episode, our guest is Katy Grace Jones, a 3rd-year veterinary student at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine and she is discussing her tips on surviving and thriving in vet school. It's a great conversation and we can't wait to share it with you! 

This month we are excited to feature a series called Exploring Vet Med Intersectionality. This is our veterinary take on the sociological concept of intersectionality, which looks at how various social identities interact and impact an individual's experience. We'll be highlighting the stories of individuals from underrepresented communities working in underserved areas of that med, and how their identities impacted their career paths. Our guest today is Dr. Valerie Marcano. She is a poultry veterinarian who has founded two companies since graduating with her dual DVM and PhD degrees in 2020. We really appreciate her willingness to come on and share her story.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast 

This month we are excited to feature a series called Exploring Vet Med Intersectionality. This is our veterinary take on the sociological concept of intersectionality, which looks at how various social identities interact and impact an individual's experience. We'll be highlighting the stories of individuals from underrepresented communities working in underserved areas of that med, and how their identities impacted their career paths. Our guest today is Dr. Ewan Wolff. Dr. Wolff is board certified in small animal internal medicine. They are also one of the presenters for AVMA's journey for Teams initiative. If you've experienced their module and Journey for Teams or seen one of their seminars, you know this is going to be a great episode.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This month we are excited to feature a series called Exploring Vet Med Intersectionality. This is our veterinary take on the sociological concept of intersectionality, which looks at how various social identities interact and impact an individual's experience. We'll be highlighting the stories of individuals from underrepresented communities working in underserved areas of that med, and how their identities impacted their career paths. Our guest today is Dr. Jean-Yin Tan, DVM, DACVIM, MBA. She is an equine internal medicine specialist and associate professor at the University of Calgary. She has had an incredible career that spans many areas of veterinary medicine. We are so excited to share her experience and perspectives with you.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Youssef Tantawy, a second-year veterinary student at the University of Glasgow, is our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast. Youssef shares his unique journey into the world of veterinary medicine, reflecting on the cultural differences he has observed between the UK and the US. He recounts his enriching international placements and experiences as a SAVMA delegate, both of which have provided him with a broader understanding of veterinary medicine and the importance of cultural competence in the field. Youssef's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of embracing a global perspective, and we are so excited to share it with you!Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Michelle Schack, a dairy veterinarian and she is here to discuss her journey in large animal practice. Dr. Schack shares her early interest in veterinary medicine, her experiences post-graduation, and the structure of her workdays. She highlights the physical demands and evolving roles in dairy medicine, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and ongoing education. Dr. Schack also discusses her efforts in education and outreach through social media, aiming to bridge the gap between the public and agriculture. This is an extremely fun and inspiring conversation, and we are so excited to share it with you!Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guests on this episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast are Drs. Julie Hunt and Jeremy Delcambre who join us to discuss the AAVMC Guidelines for the Use of Animals in Veterinary Education. They were both members of the international task force that created the guidelines and the handbook recently published on this topic. Throughout the conversation we discuss what it was like to work on these documents, how the group came to consensus on recommendations and how they navigated challenging conversations. They emphasize the importance of adaptability, inclusivity, transparency and continuous improvement in veterinary education. It is a wonderful conversation, and we are so excited to share it with you.To view the guidelines and handbooks, please visit the following links:https://www.aavmc.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/AAVMC-Guidelines-AnimalUse.pdf https://www.aavmc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AAVMC-AnimalUse-Handbook-06.pdfRemember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Elizabeth Johnson Million. Dr. Johnson Million is the Director of Veterinary Outreach at the International Council for Veterinary Assessment (ICVA), better known as the folks who create and administer the NAVLE. She helps demystify common misconceptions and questions around this test, including how the questions are created and ways to volunteer to help create future versions of the test. It's an awesome conversation with something for everyone!Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast  

This episode of My Veterinary Life podcast is a special takeover focused on the upcoming AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference (VLC), hosted by previous student attendees, Lily Smith and Taylor Barton. They discuss the “top 7” benefits of the conference, including networking, scholarship opportunities, and exploring diverse career paths. We hope to encourage all listeners to attend the VLC for personal and professional growth!For more information and to apply for student or early career scholarships for the VLC, visit the scholarships page here: https://www.avma.org/events/veterinary-leadership-conference/scholarships-savingsRemember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Today we have a bonus episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast. We are joined by two special guests Drs. Melanie Marsden and Jennifer Bosler to discuss the proposed creation of a new Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA). During the conversation we discuss what a proposed VPA is, why this is important timing in Colorado and much more. We appreciate you listening in on this important topic.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This week we are concluding our three-part miniseries with a focus on wellbeing. In previous episodes we discussed working with mental health professionals along with different credentials and what they mean. We also covered financial wellbeing. We are joined this week by Dr. Kerry Karaffa. Dr. Karaffa is a licensed psychologist and the Mental Health and Wellness Coordinator at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary medicine. He shares results from some of his research and what this means for veterinary students and professionals.  It's hard to resist Dr. Karaffa's enthusiasm and passion around these topics and we are so thrilled to share this episode with you. Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

In this episode, we are continue a three-part miniseries focused on wellbeing and the topic of the day is financial wellbeing! We are joined by Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett of Smart Vet Financial Podcast and Florida Veterinary Advisor to share their insights on improving your relationship with finances and to discuss the impact this has on your wellbeing. We discuss small steps you can take to have big impacts on your wellbeing no matter what stage of your career you are in. It's a great conversation and we are so excited to share this information with you.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This week we are starting a new mini-series that will focus on wellbeing. Throughout these three episodes we will cover topics such as working with mental health professionals, financial wellbeing and highlighting research from mental health professionals within veterinary schools. To help us jump start these incredible conversations, we are joined by Francessca Tocco. She is a licensed clinical social worker with a master's in social work. We cover a lot of ground including, as Francessca likes to say, making sense of the alphabet soup of mental health professional credentialing. It's a great episode and we are so excited to share this information with you.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This week we conclude the “We Don't Talk About…,” series where we have been exploring some often-undiscussed challenges in vet med. We previously discussed topics such as board complaints, leaving an internship, and not passing NAVLE on the first try. The goal of these conversations is to reduce the stigma around these experiences and to share resources for listeners who may find themselves going through challenging times, either now or in the future. On this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jen Brandt, AVMA's Director of Wellbeing and DEI Initiatives, to discuss Imposter Syndrome, or as we will learn in the conversation- Imposter Phenomenon. She shares research and tips for addressing the environments and systems that promote this phenomenon. This is an enlightening conversation and we can't wait to share it with you! Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This month, we're featuring a new series called, “We Don't Talk About…,” exploring some often-undiscussed challenges in vet med. We'll be discussing topics such as not passing NAVLE on the first round, board complaints, and the actual root causes of Imposter Syndrome. The goal of these conversations is to reduce the stigma around these experiences and to share resources for listeners who may find themselves going through challenging times, either now or in the future. On this episode we are joined by Dr. Andrew Groenewold, a small animal veterinarian in the Chicago suburbs. He shares what his road to pursuing an internship looks like and the decision to shift directions and not complete his internship. It is a great conversation filled with a lot of wonderful insights and questions we can all consider asking ourselves, no matter what stage of our career we are currently in.  We are so excited to include this discussion in our series and look forward to sharing the rest of the episodes with you. Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This month, we're featuring a new series called, “We Don't Talk About…,” exploring some often-undiscussed challenges in vet med. We'll be discussing topics such as board complaints, leaving an internship, and the actual root causes of Imposter Syndrome. The goal of these conversations is to reduce the stigma around these experiences and to share resources for listeners who may find themselves going through challenging times, either now or in the future. On this episode, we're joined by Dr. Lash Hicks-Bennett. She is currently a small animal rotating intern at University of Georgia, and she joins to discuss her experience with not passing NAVLE on the first attempt. We really appreciate her willingness to join us and discuss this part of her journey and look forward to sharing the rest of this series with you. Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This month, we're featuring a new series called, “We Don't Talk About…,” exploring some often-undiscussed challenges in vet med. We'll be discussing topics such as not passing NAVLE on the first round, leaving an internship, and the actual root causes of Imposter Syndrome. The goal of these conversations is to reduce the stigma around these experiences and to share resources for listeners who may find themselves going through challenging times, either now or in the future. On this episode, we're joined by AVMA PLIT Trust veterinarian, Dr. Kara Escutia. She is going to share with us information about malpractice insurance and what to do when medical errors occur. Dr. Escutia shares real examples and what to expect when faced with these challenges. We look forward to sharing this series with you and hope that we can continue the conversations throughout the profession.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

This month, we're featuring a new series called, “We Don't Talk About…,” exploring some often-undiscussed challenges in vet med. We'll be discussing topics such as not passing NAVLE on the first round, leaving an internship, and the actual root causes of Imposter Syndrome. The goal of these conversations is to reduce the stigma around these experiences and to share resources for listeners who may find themselves going through challenging times, either now or in the future. On this episode, we're kicking things off with our very own Dr. Marci Kirk talking about her personal experience with board complaints. As with many of these episodes, we are sharing our guests' perspectives and other individual experiences may vary. We hope that this will set the stage for what the process of receiving a board complaint could look like, what it is like to activate your licensure defense insurance and some of the emotions Dr. Kirk experienced. We look forward to sharing this series with you and hope that we can continue the conversations throughout the profession.Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast

Our guest on this week's episode of My Veterinary Life Podcast is Dr. Chris Doherty, the Assistant Director for Strategic Business Research and Outreach at the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Dr. Doherty shares his journey from small animal private practice to a focus on veterinary economics and business. He discusses the differences between veterinary education in Canada and the U.S., the challenges of entering the job market, and the importance of economic research in the veterinary field. The episode highlights valuable AVMA resources for new graduates and the significance of data-driven decision-making in veterinary careers. It's a information packed episode and we are excited to share our conversation with you!Remember we want to hear from you! Please be sure to subscribe to our feed on Apple Podcasts and leave us a ratings and review. You can also contact us at MVLPodcast@avma.orgFollow us on social media @AVMAVets #MyVetLife #MVLPodcast