Rekindling: Compassion Fatigue Solutions for Animal Workers

Think of your nervous system like a cup that holds everything you're managing such as stress, emotions, grief, responsibilities. When your cup has space, you're within your window of tolerance, meaning you can handle challenges with presence and flexibility. But when too much gets added and the cup overflows, you may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or shut down. The goal isn't to keep the cup empty, but to recognize when it's full and refill yourself with care, support, and regulation.

In this episode, I talk with VTS veterinary nurse and graduate researcher, Angela Chapman about her study that dives into the root causes of burnout in veterinary nurses and technicians and why fixing it takes more than just good intentions. Backed by insights from 40 experts, we explore practical, high-impact solutions that clinics can actually implement to create lasting change. Mentioned in this episode: -The Delphi study paper we talked about https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091257 (If you're a just get me to the good stuff kind of person, here's the Solution's table https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/15/9/1257.) -The preliminary survey of vet techs/nurses Part 1 https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.25.03.0163 and Part 2 https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.25.03.0164 And Angela's contact info: a.chapman@latrobe.edu.au www.linkedin.com/in/angela-chapman-75642a76

In this episode, I'm calling out the unspoken truths of animal work — the quiet heartbreaks, the strange joys, and the moments that make you wonder, “Is it just me?”. It's not.  Whether you work in vet med, animal welfare, lab animal, or wildlife/zoo this little ditty is your reminder that you're not alone, and you never were.

In this episode, I'm debunking the myth that confidence comes first and exploring what it really feels like to take courageous action. Spoiler alert: it usually feels like fear. If you've been waiting to feel ready, polished, or fearless before making a move, this is your reminder that doing it scared is how confidence is built. Let's talk about embracing discomfort, trusting yourself, and taking the leap anyway.

Guilt is a constant companion for many animal caregivers but so often, the guilt we carry isn't actually ours to hold. In this episode, we're unpacking the difference between emotional storytelling and actual responsibility. You'll learn about confabulation (the sneaky way your brain fills in the blanks with self-blame) and proximal causation (how to uncover the real cause behind what happened). If you've ever spiraled over a decision you made, felt like you didn't do enough, or carried the weight of an outcome that broke your heart, this one's for you. Wild Hearts Rising is my online group for vet techs/assts, animal welfare folks, lab animal, zoo/aquarium and wildlife warriors.  Here's all the info. 

In this episode, my Gemini sister Kelly Burich is back and we explore the emotional labor of showing up when your insides don't match your outsides. From surface acting to deep acting, we unpack what it costs to keep smiling through stress, sadness, or burnout and why acknowledging the weight behind the smile is the first step to real emotional well-being. If you've ever felt like you were performing your role instead of living it, this one's for you.

In this episode we're talking about the thing you secretly want — the dream, the goal, the whisper you've been carrying quietly for too long. We'll explore why it feels scary to want more, how fear shows up when you're on the edge of something meaningful, and why now might be the moment to finally go after it. If you're craving permission, encouragement, or a loving nudge — this one's for you.

It's not everyday that you get to talk to folks who are rescuing some of the largest, most dangerous and most exploited animals on the planet, Big Cats. In this episode I have the pleasure of speaking to 3 incredible women from Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge in Eureka Springs, AR.  Join me for my conversation with the founder Tanya Smith, staff veterinarian Dr. Kellyn Sweeley and animal curator Emily McCormack as they share their passion for their work, the heartbreak that comes with rescuing big cats and exotic animals and the transformations that they get to witness as these animals reclaim their health and dignity.  You can find out more about Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge and how to support them here. 

You are not a project that needs to be improved—you are already enough. This episode blows up the myth that worthiness is something you earn by overworking, overgiving, or overachieving. It's time to stop hustling to be "enough" and start remembering who you are.

I'm fresh off the heels of a meet-up of my Living A Life You Love group of women vets. We met in Chicago and the connections they've made on Zoom completely transferred to in-person. These women have each others back and have supported each other through some really tough things. So on the way home I created this list of empowering beliefs.  Living A Life You Love is only for women veterinarians and it only opens every 6 months. You can enroll now. Here's the link https://www.juliesquires.net/group-coaching. But hurry, the doors close on Friday March 28 at 11:59 pm! 

Ever feel like certain people were put in your life just to test your patience? Whether it's a toxic boss, a drama-loving coworker, or someone who always pushes your buttons, difficult people are everywhere. But here's the good news—you don't have to let them steal your peace! In this episode, we're diving into how to handle tricky personalities, set boundaries like a boss, and keep your cool no matter what chaos comes your way. My 6-month group for women veterinarians, Living A Life You Love is opening for enrollment on March 24-28, 2025. Here's all the info https://www.juliesquires.net/group-coaching

Five years ago, the world changed in ways we never imagined. The pandemic reshaped our lives, our fears, our resilience, and our sense of what truly matters. In this episode, we reflect on what we learned, who we became, and how we moved forward. What did we fear then, and what do we fear now? How did we adapt, and what unexpected strengths did we uncover in ourselves? Join me in this personal and collective reflection as we look back on a time that tested us, transformed us, and—hopefully—made us better. This is an episode about survival, growth, and what it means to come out the other side with a deeper understanding of ourselves and each other.

In this episode, we're diving into the 5 Essentials for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being as outlined by the U.S. Surgeon General. These five pillars—Protection from Harm, Connection & Community, Work-Life Harmony, Mattering at Work, and Growth Opportunities—are key to creating a work environment where people don't just survive, but truly thrive.  Whether you're an employee, a leader, or just someone looking for ways to feel more supported at work, this episode will give you actionable insights to build resilience, prevent burnout and compassion fatigue, and create a healthier, happier work life.  Here's the link to my episode #81 that I did on the Languages of Appreciation. 

An inner critic, we all have one. It's that constantly negative, judgmental voice that's always doubting you. You might be surprised to learn it's actually not you. Your inner critic is a collection of thoughts you've picked up along the way. By learning how to relate to your inner critic (I call mine Roger), you might just make a friend. Check it out! 

A trigger is anything—an event, a memory, a sound, a sensation—that activates a strong emotional or physiological response. Triggers don't always come from major trauma; they can be shaped by past experiences, chronic stress, or even patterns from childhood that taught us what is “safe” and what isn't. Our brains don't differentiate between past and present threats as well as we'd like them to. A trigger can make your nervous system react as if you are in real danger, even if you are perfectly safe in the moment. We can't eliminate all of our triggers but we can learn how to be with them. Listen to find out more. 

Grief is never just about the loss itself—it carries ripple effects that touch every part of our lives. In this episode, I'll explore secondary losses, the often-overlooked layers of grief that arise after losing a beloved pet or person. From changes in daily routines to shifts in identity and community, I will break down how these losses manifest and how to navigate them with compassion. Tune in for insights on recognizing, honoring, and healing with self-care, so you can carry both love and loss forward in a meaningful way.

If there's one thing I love, it's a great metaphor. Life has a way of knocking us on our butts sometimes. In this episode, I'm diving into what it really means to “get back on the horse” after a setback(or in my case, a real actual fall off a horse!) So dust yourself off, take a deep breath, listen in and let's ride again!

Mel Robbin's book The Let Them Theory is quite popular right now. But did you know it's based on a poem by Cassie Phillips called "Just Let Them"? This poem gives us the power and understanding of what it means to release control over trying to control other people and instead comprehend our own worthiness that is never in the hands of others. 

It's not too late to set your course for the year! Matter of fact, you could do this at any time throughout the year, not just in the beginning. But setting intentions for the year is just like plugging in a destination in your GPS, it sets the course.  Here are the questions: What's the one word or phrase I want to define my life in 2025, and why does it resonate with me right now? (E.g., Freedom, Growth, Boldness) What part of my life feels most aligned with who I truly am, and how can I build on that in the coming year? Where am I playing small, and how can I step into my full potential with courage and confidence in 2025? What's one area of my life I've been avoiding or neglecting, and what small, intentional action will I take to change that? What wild, audacious dream excites me but also scares me, and how will I take the first step toward it this year? How do I want to show up for myself daily—mentally, physically, emotionally—and what rituals or habits will support that? Who inspires me, and what qualities or actions of theirs can I embody to create a life I'm proud of? What's one area of my life where I need to let go—whether it's control, fear, resentment, or old expectations—to move forward freely? What's a risk I can take this year that could lead to incredible growth, even if the outcome isn't guaranteed? If I were to fast forward to the end of 2025, what three moments would make me say, “This was my best year yet”?

Natural death is an interesting process. The body knows how to do it but that doesn't mean it's easy to watch. With animals we often don't get to see the dying process because we often opt to relieve suffering and provide a "good death" via euthanasia. Witnessing my father in the dying process really got me to think about the contrast between how animals die and how humans do. And I started to wonder about some unintended consequences that can result when we are used to relieving suffering.  In this episode I mention the "blue pamphlet" that hospice workers reference and recommend to family members of dying patients. It's called "Gone From My Sight: The Dying Experience" and if you or someone you know has a loved one that's dying, it might be very helpful. You can get it here. 

This is it. The final episode of 2024 which means it's time to end the year with intention, let go of anything no longer serving you that you don't want to bring into 2025 and realign with your purpose of serving animals. 

It's time for our annual reflection! I love the opportunity to look back and unpack the year. Chances are your 2024 was filled with joys and disappointments. Today we'll focus on more of the joys. I want to encourage you to journal on these 10 questions.  1. What goals did I accomplish this year? 2. How did I step outside of my comfort zone this year and what did I learn from it? 3. What moments will I cherish forever? 4. Were there any relationships I chose to let go of and why? 5. What practices or habits brought me the most peace and joy? 6. How did I strenghten my relationships with loved ones this year? 7. Who were the people who uplifted and inspired me the most this year? 8. How did I overcome fear and doubt this year? 9. What was the boldest decision I made this year and what was the outcome? 10. What is the one bold vision I have for myself in the coming year?

The holiday season can be a challenging time for those navigating grief and loss. In this episode, we explore the unique ways the holidays can amplify feelings of longing and sadness, whether you're mourning a loved one, a cherished pet, or experiencing a significant life transition.

Ever hear something that pierces right to your soul? Well that's what happened when I recently heard this concept of "forgive the present moment". Perhaps it's because it's just what I needed in that moment and I thought maybe you might need it too. 

Episode 300 just happens to fall on American Thanksgiving. Coincidence? I think not. I have a very important message for you today. Not just for Thanksgiving but for the entire holiday season and one that can glide you right into 2025 too. Don't miss this one!!! 

Over-responsibility is a term I heard recently from one of my coaches use and I immediately thought about how I see it every day in those that work in service of animals. Over-responsibility is when we take on more than is sustainable and necessary and women are often conditioned to do so. Women in helping professions often face implicit expectations to go "above and beyond". In this episode we'll explore why it happens, what some of the costs are and what can be done to break free.

Empathy, the ability to put ourselves in other's shoes can have a dark side; when we take on the emotions of others. That is unhealthy empathy and something that animal workers have to be aware of and guard against. In this episode I'll explain why we do it, what it can result in and how to protect yourself from taking on that which is not yours. 

If your candidate won, you'll probably want to skip this episode.  If the election didn't turn out how you wanted, this one's for you. I'll share with you some strategies for dealing with all the feelings that have likely come about and how to move forward. 

Anxiety is through the roof right now with the upcoming election, 24-hour news, doom scrolling and the fast pace of our society. And animal workers have their own set of stressors that cause anxiety. Everyone needs a safe space to lay down their burdens which is why I created my new group program for non-vets, Wild Hearts Rising. It's a 6-month program and it runs November-April. Registration closes on November 3, so hurry.  Here's all the details: https://mailchi.mp/c8434ae6b7e7/wildheartsrising

Today is a special day! I'm announcing my new group for animal workers, Wild Hearts Rising.   Groups are not a new phenomena and have actually been in existence for centuries. It wasn't until the 1930's when Alcoholics Anonymous started that group support started to look like what we now know as group programs.  My new group Wild Hearts Rising is more than just a group program; it's a sanctuary for those who dedicate their lives to the well-being of animals. It's a place where the quiet heroes—vet techs, animal caregivers, lab animal professionals, zoo/sanctuary/rescue folks—come together to reconnect with their passion and find strength in a community that understands their struggles. Here, wild hearts rise with a shared purpose, driven by compassion that goes beyond words. It's about rekindling the fire within, healing the healers, and standing strong for those who cannot speak. Together, we rise, knowing that our love for animals is what binds us, fuels us, and drives us to make a difference. Get all the info here: https://mailchi.mp/c8434ae6b7e7/wildheartsrising    

It can feel as if there's an internal battle between your heart and your head when trying to decide whether or not to quit something. I had that experience recently myself and I'm going to tell you all about it and how to know what to do in a situation like this. Whether you're thinking about quitting a job, a volunteer gig or even a relationship, this episode will help you. 

My gemini twin Kelly is back for another episode and this time we are talking about boundaries and the surprising places that boundary issues show up. Kelly shares her wisdom and as always, a couple of zingers that only she can pull off with that adorable southern accent. Bless her heart!

In the wake of the immense destruction and devastation brought about by Hurricane Helene, a client asked me how can she hold space for the suffering others are enduring while also wanting to enjoy her life. What a thoughtful question! And do I have an answer. 

I asked my current group members what they value about the other women in the group. Their answers were unreal! I'm convinced that every women veterinarian needs to be in this group. I honestly think it would benefit them all.  Please visit my website to apply for Living a Life You Love, my 6 month group program for women veterinarians. www.juliesquires.net Registration closes 9/29 at 11:59 pm. 

We don't get to decide we're trustworthy. Instead, others assess our trustiworthiness based on specific criteria and decide for themselves. What is that criteria? I'll share it with you in this episode plus how to increase your trustworthiness.  Want to learn more about my group Living A Life You Love for women veterinarians? More info here.

I've been in Europe this week and had an experience that reminded me what matters most. It's easy to get upset over politics right now with so much going on but I want to encourage you to remember that we are all just people who want most of the same things out of life. 

We make things personal that often don't need to be. Most of that is actually just a nervous system response to something our body deems as a threat. This can get very confusing when it's in regard to others feedback and criticism but when you stay connected to who you serve and what your purpose is, you will find the space through. This energy can fuel you in such amazing ways and I call it "service energy". 

This is one of the top 5 most downloaded episodes of the podcast! And that says alot about my listeners. It says that the people I attract care about how they show up at work and want to be the best versions of themselves. We may not be able to change others but we can choose the kind of co-worker we want to be. 

This is an episode from the vault but I think it's one we all need to hear again and again. Work-life balance is the elusive thing we're all chasing and yet we've likely never even defined it. The reality is "work-life" balance means different things to different people and will mean different things depending on the season of your life. This is an episode to digest and share with others! 

At one time or another we all are faced with the question "Is it time to quit this job?". I'm a big believer in routinely re-evaluating the choices we make, including where, for whom and what our work is. From there you can either decide to make a change or redecide what you're currently doing. You aren't stuck! Enjoy this little ditty from the vault! 

My Gemini Girl Kelly Burich and I are back at it this week gabbing about all things self-care. This is the conversation you need to hear. It's part validation as to why self-care can feel so daunting and unacheivable while also part inspiration as we remind you of all of the choices you get to make about how you care for yourself. Listen in! 

I've been coaching people who work with and for animals for almost 10 years now. This episode is from 2020 and I stand by all of these lessons still. As a matter of fact, even more so!

Perhaps the deepest self-care is making time to process your emotions. Compassion fatigue is what happens when we get so filled with the residue of repeatedly bearing witness to the trauma of others. There has to be an outlet for your emotions and I hate to be the bearer of bad news but it isn't wine! 

This episode is all about self-worth and is one of my absolute favorite messages! It would make a great keynote speech to remind anyone who has ever doubted themselves. This will remind you of what you already know but may've forgotten. 

Conflict. Most animal workers don't like it. And we also don't know what to do with it. Do we manage it? Resolve it? Well Kelly and I have all the answers so pull up a chair and dive in! 

Believing in yourself and your inherent worthiness is perhaps the secret to happiness. But we all have the critical voice within and also outside of us. We've likely been told we're "too this" or "too that". But the truth is that you're mere existence is a MIRACLE. Listening to this episode is giving yourself a huge gift, a huge hug and a huge amount of love. Enjoy! 

Being a perfectionist may sound noble and like a virtue but it's actually anything but. What perfectionism really is may surprise you but understanding what it's based in will only help you grow.

Today I have a great episode about intentional thinking. Intentional thinking is the skill of deliberately and on purpose deciding what you want to think. Most people don't know they can do this and while it may be a skill that requires practice, it's a skill that will improve your life 100-fold. 

Ever listen to something at a different time in your life and it transforms you? To be honest, EVERY time I listen to what I'm sharing with you in this episode, I am transformed. Because it hits me differently each and every time I hear it. And I've heard it a lot over the past two decades.  So today I invite you to take a real listen and see how this lands with you with where you are in your life right now. And if it encourages you to shift, pivot or change your thinking about something in your life. It does for me, every damn time. 

Geminis Unleashed is what I'm calling the 6 monthly episodes I'm doing with fellow Gemini Soul Sister, Kelly Burich. Kelly is a favorite repeat guest on the pod and today we talk all about Resilience. What it is, how emotional labor impacts it, what the research says and what do we do to have more. Hit play! You won't want to miss this meeting of the Gemini minds!!

In this episode I share with you what I'm calling my Summer Awakening or my Mid-Life Awakening. And I want to invite you to join me in it. It's a simple approach to summer that will result in an overall improvement in your wellbeing and mental health.