The Uncharted Veterinary Podcast

In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Stephanie Goss and guest Bret Halishak discuss the challenges solo veterinary practice owners face when considering their exit strategy, and how to position their practice for future success. Bret provides valuable insights on maximizing practice value, operational efficiency, and the importance of team development. He emphasizes the need for practice owners to understand their financials, leverage their team's skills, and build a strong practice brand that is not solely reliant on the owner. By implementing these strategies, practice owners can create a sustainable and attractive business, ensuring a successful transition and preserving the legacy of their independent practice. Bret Halishak is a practice broker with Total Practice Solutions Group, specializing in helping veterinary practice owners in the Great Lakes region navigate the complexities of selling their practice. With a background in practice management and a deep understanding of the veterinary industry, Bret is passionate about helping practice owners achieve their financial goals and find the right buyer for their practice.

When the clinic schedule looks light, should the practice owner send techs home to save costs—even if it means stretching the remaining team thin? In this episode of The Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dive into a manager's dilemma: balancing payroll concerns with patient care and staff morale. They share actionable steps for addressing these staffing challenges head-on, including how to communicate with leadership, gather input from the team, and propose solutions that keep the clinic running smoothly. This is a must-listen for veterinarians, practice managers, technicians, and the whole veterinary team looking to tackle real-world workflow issues and support their clinic's success. Let's get into this episode!

Ever felt caught in the middle when it comes to practice finances? A practice manager wrote in, sharing their frustration with an owner who regularly draws large amounts of money from the business—leaving the practice struggling to cover bills and payroll. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Practice Management Super Nerd, Stephanie Goss and guest Dr. Sue Sayles dive into the tricky dynamics of managing practice finances when the owner's withdrawals disrupt cash flow and this practice manager's morale. With 23 years of practice ownership under her belt, Dr. Sue has seen it all. She started out as a mixed-animal practitioner, then built a thriving small animal practice, growing it from $300k in revenue to over $2 million. She knows firsthand the challenges of balancing financial needs with business growth, and today she's passionate about helping other practice owners and managers navigate these waters. Stephanie and Sue share actionable insights on how to structure tough financial conversations, establish trust, and support the owner's goals while keeping the practice afloat. They discuss ways to approach sensitive topics, build financial systems that work for both parties, and ultimately foster a practice environment that supports everyone's success—even when priorities don't always align. If you're looking to navigate the rough seas of practice finances and improve team morale, this episode is for you. Let's get into this episode!

A practice manager struggles with managing a PTO policy that leads to team members overusing their time off early in the year. In this episode of the Uncharted Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice management super nerd, Stephanie Goss help a practice manager having a hard time balancing their team's use of paid time off (PTO). The manager explains that they simplified PTO, lumping sick days and vacation time together to give their staff more autonomy. However, it's backfired, leaving them frustrated as team members are either taking too much time off or asking for guidance on whether they should come in sick. Andy and Stephanie offer practical advice on how to set clear guidelines while maintaining a positive culture, how to establish boundaries without micromanaging, and how to approach the situation without becoming the "PTO villain." Let's get into this episode!

Change can be scary to vet teams and getting their buy-in takes great skill. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark is joined by Dr. Jules Benson to discuss strategies for change management in veterinary practices. Dr. Benson brings over a decade of executive experience in the pet health insurance industry and a rich background in clinical practice and veterinary innovation. Together, they explore how veterinary teams can implement new tools to enhance communication with pet owners and improve the overall client experience. Dr. Benson shares his insights into using data and technology to transform veterinary practices, drawing from his expertise in strategic planning and leadership. The conversation focuses on gaining team buy-in, fostering trust, and motivating staff with purpose-driven initiatives. They emphasize the importance of patience, persistence, and positive reinforcement when leading change. Dr. Roark also reflects on his personal leadership evolution and the challenges of managing change in a way that resonates with veterinary teams. Throughout the discussion, they provide practical steps for setting clear expectations, tracking success, and creating a supportive culture. Let's get into this episode! This episode is brought to you ad-free by Nationwide Pet Insurance! LINKS

Should veterinary medicine introduce a mid-level practitioner role? With the landscape of veterinary care changing, there's a proposal in Colorado to create a Veterinary Professional Associate (VPA) role, sitting between licensed technicians and veterinarians. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss discuss the potential impact of expanding technician responsibilities and how this could redefine roles in general practice. What does this mean for access to veterinary care, the utilization of support staff, and the future of our profession? They explore the nuances of this issue, touching on staffing shortages, licensing, and the evolving structure of veterinary practices. Whether you're a veterinarian, practice manager, technician, or a passionate veterinary professional, this conversation is a must-listen as we navigate the possibilities and challenges ahead. Let's get into this episode!

A medical director is having trouble navigating the balance between supporting paraprofessional staff in tech school and ensuring they have the necessary technical skills for their role. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Stephanie and Dr. Andy Roark discuss a specific scenario where a veterinary assistant, allowed to study on the clock, is struggling with skill development. The conversation turns into a thoughtful debate about trust, team expectations, and the challenges of leading a veterinary team with fairness and empathy. They explore how communication and adjusting expectations can prevent feeling like the "bad guy" while supporting staff in skill growth. Let's get into this episode!

A Practice Manager is struggling with younger team members' reactions to client disagreements. The leader is frustrated with the team's hypersensitivity to client interactions, particularly around money and customer service, which is resulting in feedback that the practice feels cold and transactional. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Practice Management Super Nerd, Stephanie Goss and Dr. Andy Roark explore how to shift the team's culture towards empathy and understanding, while also addressing issues of emotional intelligence, client interactions, and accountability. They emphasize the importance of avoiding generational stereotypes and focus on actionable strategies to create a supportive, client-centered environment. Let's get into this episode!

In this episode, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss tackle a mailbag question from a technician struggling with negativity in their clinic, where team members have started complaining about clients after a recent workflow change. The hosts discuss how small behaviors like eye-rolling and client bashing can create a toxic work environment if left unchecked, especially when clients might overhear. They explore the importance of setting personal boundaries, leading by example, and addressing frustrations constructively to maintain a positive workplace culture. Tune in for practical strategies on how to approach tough conversations, support your team, and foster a respectful clinic atmosphere, all while protecting your own peace of mind.

A practice manager is frustrated by team members delaying lunches and taking disruptive trips to the breakroom, which leaves the afternoon understaffed and creates tension among the senior team. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Andi Davison tackle a challenging mailbag question: how to manage staff taking breaks, ordering food, and maintaining workflow. Dr. Roark and Andi break down how to approach this situation from a place of curiosity and empathy, exploring the reasons behind these behaviors while still maintaining boundaries and fairness. They share strategies on addressing break policies, fostering a positive work environment, and ensuring everyone feels supported while keeping operations running smoothly. Andi Davison has been on the wild ride of veterinary medicine since 2001, having started as a vet tech and eventually becoming the veterinary care manager at the University of Florida's large animal hospital. Alongside her veterinarian husband, Dr. Mike Davison, she opened Davison Veterinary Medicine, serving mixed-animal clients for nine years. Now, as a Positive Change Agent with Flourish Veterinary Consulting, Andi is committed to helping veterinary professionals thrive, drawing on her extensive experience to promote positive change in the industry. Tune in to learn how you can create a healthier work environment by approaching conflicts with kindness and setting clear, manageable expectations for your team

A manager with fantastic team leads—dedicated, hardworking, and aligned with the clinic's mission—struggles to help these leads transition from being top team members to effective leaders who can manage and hold their peers accountable. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Andy and Stephanie break down the challenges of shifting from being "one of the team" to being the person responsible for enforcing standards and accountability. They explore why this transition can be so difficult and offer practical advice on how to empower your team leads, set clear expectations, and provide the right kind of support as they grow into their new roles. If you've ever promoted a team member to a leadership position and found they struggled with managing their former peers, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you and your team leads succeed. Let's get into this episode...

How do you manage staff anxiety about the upcoming schedule without turning away clients and compromising care? In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice management super star, Stephanie Goss dive into a mailbag question that resonates deeply with many veterinary teams. A concerned manager writes in about their team's growing habit of preemptively freaking out when they see a busy day ahead, leading to requests for limiting appointments and turning pets away, even though most days end up going smoothly. Stephanie Goss, with her extensive experience in practice management, and Dr. Andy Roark tackle this issue head-on, discussing the delicate balance between preparing for a busy schedule and maintaining a calm, productive work environment. They explore the common cognitive biases like catastrophizing and negativity bias that can exacerbate these fears and share actionable strategies for addressing these challenges. Together, they walk you through action steps that you can implement in your clinic to avoid this chicken little mentality. Let's get into this episode....

Are traditional expectations around resignations and job stability becoming outdated? A practice owner shares their concerns about the increasing trend of employees resigning via email or text and the prevalence of job-hopping on resumes. How can we navigate these changing norms without feeling out of touch? In this episode, Maria and Andy explore how to approach these issues with empathy and strategic thinking. They discuss practical steps for interviewing candidates with job-hopping histories, setting clear expectations during onboarding, and cultivating a workplace culture that encourages retention. Maria's deep understanding of leadership and her passion for helping others develop their skills make her the perfect guide for this conversation. Maria Pirita, a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager, Elite Fear Free Certified Veterinary Professional, and former hospital administrator, joins the conversation with her wealth of experience in veterinary medicine and leadership. Maria has spent over a decade in the field and over 20 years honing her leadership skills, making her an expert in helping veterinary leaders adapt to evolving workplace dynamics. Her background in veterinary marketing, team building, and positive work culture provides invaluable insights for addressing these modern challenges. For veterinary practice owners and managers facing the realities of today's job market, this episode offers essential strategies for maintaining professionalism and respect while adapting to change. Join us as we tackle these critical issues with Maria's expert guidance.

This practice owner is seeking guidance on how to help their team become more empathetic and flexible with clients who may not immediately agree with recommendations. In this episode, Stephanie Goss and Dr. Andy Roark tackle a common challenge faced by veterinary practice teams: how to improve emotional intelligence and client compassion when dealing with resistant or questioning clients. Stephanie and Andy dive into the root causes of this issue, discussing how mental exhaustion and frustration can lead to negative attitudes toward clients. They offer actionable strategies for creating a more compassionate and client-centered culture, including conducting reset meetings, fostering open communication, and implementing recognition programs for positive client interactions. Let's get into this episode... This episode is brought to you by DaySmart Vet. https://www.daysmart.com/vet/features/

A young practice manager is struggling to maintain the momentum and enthusiasm of a high-quality team that, after an initial burst of energy, has started to settle into complacency. Despite intentional efforts to create a strong culture, clear pay scales, and a supportive environment, the leadership team is finding it difficult to inspire the same level of excitement and growth-driven mindset among their staff. Dr. Roark and Stephanie dive into the complexities of team dynamics, the importance of patience in building trust and culture, and the challenges of sustaining motivation in a growing practice. They explore how to gauge whether a team's resistance is due to processing time, differing communication styles, or simply a need for clearer direction. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they offer insights into how leaders can align their vision with their team's enthusiasm. Let's get into this episode...

This Practice Manager, like many, is not looking forward to letting someone at their practice go but what makes this particularly challenging is that this person has already expressed financial concerns. This week, Stephanie Goss is joined by Rebecca Rose, an RVT, CCC (Certified Career Coach), and CPEP (Certified Peaceful Euthanasia Professional), as they discuss how to navigate this conversation. With over 40 years of experience, Rebecca shares her insights on dealing with layoffs, the importance of employee handbooks, and maintaining a compassionate yet professional demeanor during challenging discussions. They also explore the emotional aspects of leadership and provide practical tips for handling tough conversations with empathy and clarity. Rebecca Rose's impressive career spans nearly four decades, during which she has managed veterinary clinics, collaborated with industry partners, authored articles and books, and facilitated engaging team workshops. Recently appointed to the Colorado State Board of Veterinary Medicine as one of the first RVT Members, Rebecca's enthusiasm for professional development is contagious. She is dedicated to supporting veterinary teams in reaching their highest potential and believes in building a healthy, sustainable career in veterinary medicine through memorable storytelling and interactive courses. Rebecca's extensive experience and dedication make her the perfect guest for this episode, offering valuable advice on handling difficult conversations and supporting veterinary teams with empathy and professionalism. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

This manager faces challenges with constant corrections from a perfectionist team member, causing tension within the team. Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dive deep into managing perfectionist tendencies in a veterinary setting, highlighting the importance of empathy, open communication, and objective management. They explore how the veterinary education system can contribute to perfectionist behaviors and discuss strategies for balancing high standards with team harmony. This episode is packed with action items for any practice owner, manager, leader or veterinary team member who might be dealing with a similar situation. Let's get into this episode...

A practice owner is struggling how to communicate taking responsibility even when they didn't do anything wrong. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss tackle a tough mailbag question from a practice owner dealing with a post-surgery complication. After a routine spay, a client reported swelling at the incision site, which quickly escalated to an emergency vet visit. The associate vet who performed the surgery believes they did nothing wrong, as confirmed by the emergency vet. However, the practice owner is considering helping with the ER bill to maintain client trust, but struggles with the associate's concerns about admitting fault. Andy and Stephanie dive into the complexities of balancing client care, maintaining team morale, and upholding the practice's integrity. They offer insights on handling post-surgical complications, fostering open communication, and navigating the delicate balance between supporting clients and protecting the veterinary team. Let's get into this episode...

A veterinary professional who recently stepped into the role of tech team lead is facing the challenge of earning their team's trust while aligning with the practice owner's vision. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, practice management super nerd, Stephanie Goss is joined by guests Tyler Grogan and Kelsey Beth Carpenter. Join them as they dive into a mailbag letter from a loyal listener who is struggling to transition from being a peer to a leader, especially when they support the direction set by the practice owner. Together, Stephanie, Tyler and Kelsey discuss strategies for balancing team dynamics, maintaining trust, and clear communication. They share insights on establishing expectations, open communication lines, and the importance of setting personal and professional standards to thrive in a new leadership role. Let's get into this episode...

This medical director is struggling with a micromanager who is now overstepping on the medicine side of the practice. Dr. Andy Roark and practice management super nerd, Stephanie Goss take on this mailbag to help a team member deal with a manager that makes jokes about being the boss and making the decisions. The rest of the team finds it more threatening than funny and now, some of those micromanaging tendencies are starting to slip into the medical protocols. Let's get into this episode! LINKS

A veterinary professional who thought they found their dream clinic is starting to see some old-fashioned medicine that needs to go. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss address a mailbag letter from a new team member at a rural practice who is alarmed by outdated and unsafe medical practices. Concerned about the lack of physical exams, rushed appointments, and poor surgical sterility, this person wonders how to raise these issues without overstepping their bounds. Andy and Stephanie discuss how to navigate the difficult conversation of addressing substandard care, offering advice on recognizing capacity limits, setting personal and professional standards, and practical ways to advocate for patient safety. Let's get into this episode...

This clinic is struggling with big changes, leading to being short-staffed, and the kicker? The boss simply cannot hire right now. This week on the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss address a mailbag letter from a practice trying to maintain high-quality care after losing team members, leaving them as a single-doctor practice. They explore how to balance patient and client care while being severely short-handed and whether to make sacrifices or adjust their business model. Andy shares valuable advice on recognizing capacity limits and not trying to be all things to all people, while Stephanie offers practical business solutions, focusing on numbers and pragmatic adjustments. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

How do we balance supporting the team's well-being with the demands of running a successful veterinary practice? This week on the Uncharted Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss navigate these choppy waters, helping listeners find the perfect balance between personal and business needs. They dive into the importance of using varied measuring sticks for success and how to recognize and accommodate different life phases and priorities. Stephanie and Andy provide a treasure trove of actionable steps to help veterinarians chart a course towards a realistic work-life balance. Let's get into this episode...

The practice manager at this clinic struggles between business operations and team communication. Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss address a mailbag question from a medical director struggling with a practice manager who excels in metrics but falters in team interaction. Andy and Stephanie dive into the friction often seen between the business and medical sides of veterinary practices, especially in corporate settings. They emphasize the importance of empathy, trust, and good intent, providing actionable steps to bridge the gap between operations and medicine. They also offer strategies for giving positive feedback and fostering a supportive environment. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

An associate veterinarian who loves their job, is struggling with a practice owner's overbearing management style that pushes the boundaries of work-life balance. The team receives numerous emails and texts on their days off, and the feedback is often negative and micromanaging, creating a stressful work environment. Dr. Andy Roark and practice management super nerd, Stephanie Goss get real vulnerable sharing their own experiences with similar challenges. Together they offer insights into setting boundaries and fostering a positive workplace culture while taking our listeners on another ride to Camp Tough Love. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

Shawna Castillo, Director of Care Plans at Otto, joins us to tackle a critical question from a practice manager struggling with client credit limitations. Despite offering CareCredit, Scratchpay, and VetBilling, many clients still face challenges. The burning question: How do we design wellness plans in a way that is not going to make my team or my doctors lose their ever-loving minds? Practice Management super nerd, Stephanie Goss and Shawna Castillo offer their perspectives on this subject. This week's episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast is brought to you by Otto. Shawna Castillo, with her 20 years of experience in the veterinary and animal health space, brings a wealth of knowledge to this topic. As a leader in people, processes, and technology, Shawna excels in influential team leadership, process improvement, client retention strategies, and customer success enablement. At Otto, she oversees the Care Memberships program, helping veterinary hospitals boost their economy, client retention, team efficiencies, and patient outcomes. Shawna's passion for understanding human and animal motivators and her love for using technology to strengthen the bond between pets, their owners, and veterinarians, makes her the perfect guest for this mailbag. Stephanie and Shawna discuss the need for care plans, enabling pet parents, especially younger generations, to afford preventative care through manageable monthly payments. They discuss key factors to consider when designing care plans and strategies to overcome common barriers from associate DVMs, team members, and clients. Shawna's insights offer invaluable guidance for veterinary practice managers and leaders looking to implement effective wellness plans without overwhelming their teams. Let's get into this episode... ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Otto Care + Uncharted Deal: https://otto.vet/uncharted/ Referenced Article: https://www.avma.org/news/turn-data-when-decisions-get-tough UVP 233 - Vet vs. Wellness Plans: https://unchartedvet.com/vet-vs-wellness-plans/ UPCOMING EVENTS ⚓ Dive into the Uncharted Medical Director Summit! Discover a realm designed for medical directors aspiring to elevate their roles. Join us for a one-day virtual summit packed with engaging sessions and workshops led by industry experts. Enhance your leadership impact, overcome challenges in team management, and boost clinical excellence and practice efficiency. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your practice. Reserve your spot today at https://unchartedvet.com/uncharted-medical-director-summit-2024/ ⚓ Boost Your Conflict Management Skills at NAVC HiVE with Uncharted! Heads up, Minneapolis! Uncharted is hosting an essential conflict management workshop at the NAVC HiVE this June. Our Conflict Management Essentials training is perfect for veterinary professionals eager to create a peaceful work environment. This one-day, interactive training is available on two different dates for your convenience. Explore the roots of conflict, develop emotional intelligence, and learn effective communication strategies. Seize this opportunity to strengthen your team and enhance your practice's conflict resolution skills. Register now and join us at NAVC HiVE: https://unchartedvet.com/navc-hive-conflict-management-training

A frustrated veterinary practice leader wonders why it seems like the details no longer matter to their team. This week on the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Practice Management expert Stephanie Goss and Dr. Andy Roark tackle their shortest mailbag question ever: does anyone care about the details? Together, they work through the headspace behind this question, discussing the complexities of veterinary medicine and how to foster honest conversations that lead to accountability. From fecal loops to technician tasks to tardiness, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss walk through real-life examples, offering valuable action steps to help the team understand why the details matter. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

This practice owner aims to develop a plan for both a new, eager graduate and an established associate who is less enthusiastic about development. Dr. Addie Reinhard, CEO of MentorVet, joins Dr. Andy Roark on this week's podcast to tackle this unique challenge. Dr. Reinhard brings a wealth of expertise to the conversation, as the founder of MentorVet—an organization known for its evidence-based approaches to promoting well-being within veterinary medicine. Her extensive research, including her role in the Merck Animal Health Veterinary Wellbeing Study, focuses on developing interventions to support mental health and well-being in the veterinary field. All of this making her the perfect person to help us with this week's mailbag. Together, Dr. Addie Reinhard and Dr. Andy Roark discuss the importance of tailored development plans, employee ownership, and provide actionable steps for any practice leader looking to enhance their mentorship programs. Let's get into this..

An associate is struggling with their perception that the management team is not holding an otherwise exceptional team member accountable for excessive call-outs, resulting in gaps in coverage. This week on the Uncharted Podcast, Stephanie Goss and Dr. Andy Roark respond to an email signed from "A motivated associate who needs my support team to show up to work and the management team to hold them accountable." They discuss a team member who is excellent at their job but has chronic migraines causing constant absences. Andy and Stephanie aim to move from frustration to a positive mindset to tackle this mailbag question, head on. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

Clients are feeling extremely frustrated by not being able to get seen with a sick pet quickly enough for their liking and unfortunately, the front desk is taking the brunt of the client frustration. This week on the Uncharted Podcast, Stephanie Goss and Dr. Andy Roark jump headfirst into another mailbag episode. They received an email from a practice who is absolutely drowning in clients. They have 5 doctors offering care weekdays AND weekends and they still can't keep up. This practice is pleading for suggestions on not letting the constant backlash wear them down at the desk or on the phones. The team feels like this can be an amazing field to work in, but are feeling like its hard not to dread coming in when the bad calls start to outweigh the good. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

One experienced doctor's toxic behavior is jeopardizing team morale and driving away staff and new graduate veterinarians. In this episode of the Uncharted podcast, practice management expert Stephanie Goss and Dr. Erica Pounds from Banfield Pet Hospital dive into a critical issue faced by many practice leaders: dealing with toxic behavior from a team member. The episode begins with a heartfelt email from a frustrated practice leader detailing the challenges their practice has faced since losing several doctors after a corporate buyout. Stephanie and Dr. Pounds explore actionable strategies to address this issue effectively. Let's get into this episode! ABOUT OUR GUEST Dr. Erica Pounds is the enthusiastic Program Manager for Team-based Care with the Veterinary Affairs Team at Banfield Pet Hospital. Since graduating from the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011, she has climbed the ranks at Banfield, taking on pivotal roles such as Chief of Staff, Area Chief of Staff, and Interim Director of Veterinary Quality. Erica has a fervent passion for learning and particularly cherishes opportunities for leadership development. Outside the office, Erica's life is full of adventure and creativity. She's not only the supermom to four amazing boys and a partner in crime to her husband in the bustling world of superheroes and soccer, but she also finds joy and tranquility in quilting. Her sewing room is her sanctuary, a place where colorful fabrics and intricate designs come to life, providing a perfect balance to her dynamic professional life.

This practice has spent a lot of time and energy to work on their culture and the team that is there loves working together, loves their clients and the management. Yet people are still leaving the practice! This week on the podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice management nerd Stephanie Goss are talking through an email they received in the mailbag. This letter might be short on details and the challenge this practice is facing is definitely long on the challenge. We know we can't control losing people to life events and yet this writer is finding themselves shouting at the top of their lungs "What am I doing wrong!?!?!?" Let's get into this...

What are some key practices in preparing the clinic for a team member returning from a mental health leave? Dr. Phil Richmond joins us to help a veterinary practice manager wondering how they can prepare a safe space within their clinic. Together, Stephanie Goss and Dr. Phil Richmond tackle many action steps and offer valuable resources to get the right work policy in place for any team. Let's get into this episode... Content Warning: Mentions of suicide attempt may be triggering to some listeners. LINKS AND RESOURCES JAVMA Article Suicide among veterinarians in the United States from 1979 through 2015: https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/254/1/javma.254.1.104.xml EEOC Resources: https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/guidance/enforcement-guidance-ada-and-psychiatric-disabilities AVMA EAP Resources: https://www.avma.org/news/exploring-employee-assistance-programs-veterinary-practices-are-they-bother-or-benefit Not One More Vet: https://www.nomv.org/

This week on the Uncharted Podcast, Stephanie Goss and Dr. Andy Roark dive into another intriguing submission from the mail bag. This time, they tackle a question from a practice owner who's embarking on the journey of opening a new clinic and is pondering what type of client experience to deliver. The practice owner is eager to establish a distinctive client experience for their new venture but is uncertain about the direction to take. Stephanie and Andy emphasize the importance of aligning the client experience with the practice's vision and values. They get a little spicy in debunking the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach, emphasizing that the client experience should be tailored to reflect the unique identity and goals of the practice. Stephanie and Andy provide actionable steps to help the practice owner extract their vision and values and translate them into tangible practices for their new startup team. From defining core values to training the team, they offer practical guidance to empower the practice owner in shaping a client experience that resonates authentically with their practice ethos. Let's get into this episode... LINKS

This week on the Uncharted Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and veterinary practice management whiz, Stephanie Goss dive into a heartfelt letter from a listener grappling with burnout in the veterinary world. Despite swimming in a sea of perks—great pay, abundant time off, and a tight-knit support system—the listener finds themselves treading water, feeling stuck in the profession's turbulent waves. They're struggling to keep their head above water amidst rising client demands and a sinking sense of passion. Andy and Stephanie embark on a buoyant journey through the listener's challenges, sprinkling in their trademark ride to Camp Tough Love. Together, they explore different mindsets and paddle through practical strategies to reignite the listener's love for veterinary medicine. Let's get into this...

In this week's episode of The Uncharted Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dive into a letter from the mailbag. It's from a kennel technician grappling with a toxic workplace culture. This dedicated individual is working tirelessly in the kennels for experience requirements for vet school. However, the atmosphere within the kennels is far from supportive, with the kennel manager engaging in gossiping and making side remarks. Despite reaching out to the practice manager for assistance, the situation remains unchanged, leaving the kennel attendant feeling frustrated and unheard. Andy and Stephanie provide valuable insight about looking at the big picture and how to navigate these kinds of conversations. Let's get into this episode.... UPCOMING EVENTS/INFO

In this episode of the Uncharted Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark jumps into a crucial mailbag but this time with special guest Dr. Sarah Wolff. Together they tackle a pressing question from a practice manager struggling with maintaining the personal touch in client interactions after transitioning to digital communications. Sarah Wolff, a seasoned veteran of the veterinary field, embarked on her journey inspired by James Herriot's tales. Over her 22-year career, she's navigated every role imaginable in a veterinary team, from humble beginnings as a kennel assistant to the esteemed position of medical director. Through her extensive experience, Sarah has witnessed the dynamic evolution of veterinary care, but one principle has remained constant: client relationships are the cornerstone of exceptional veterinary medicine. Today, she's dedicated to helping teams cultivate these relationships, fostering excellent client experiences that enrich both the practice and the individuals within it. For more insights from Sarah, visit her online at www.DrSarahWolff.com and follow her on Twitter @DrSarahWolff. In this episode's mailbag entry, our featured practice manager voices a common concern among modern practices: striking a balance between efficiency-driven digital communications and maintaining the human connection with clients. With technology streamlining communication processes, practices risk losing the personal touch that sets them apart in the hearts of their clients. Let's get into this episode! UPCOMING INFO/EVENTS Join us for the upcoming Uncharted Veterinary Conference in April 2024, where industry leaders will converge to explore strategies for breaking through the noise and crafting compelling narratives that resonate with your community. Learn how to Stand out in a Sea of Noise and register now at https://unchartedvet.com/uvc-april-2024/. Can't make it to Greenville? Explore our new Leadership Essentials Certificate, offering 8 hours of CE and empowering leaders at all levels to achieve excellence. Learn more and access the program online or in person at https://unchartedvet.com/certificates/ Elevate your leadership skills and join our vibrant community of veterinary professionals by becoming an Uncharted member. Gain exclusive access to valuable resources and benefits, including the Leadership Essentials Certificate, as part of your membership. Join us today at https://unchartedvet.com/uvc-membership/. Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love to hear discussed on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

This week on the Uncharted Podcast, practice management super nerd, Stephanie Goss invited special guest Bill Schroeder to come discuss something all of our practices should be getting ready for - the big slow down. We know that some clinics still have clients coming out their ears while others are experiencing a very rapid slowing of appointment volume. So many of us have been focusing on hiring and retaining team members to support our case loads that we've put things like marketing, updating reminder protocols and website updates on the back burner. Bill Schroeder owns InTouch Practice Communications (www.InTouchVet.com), a full-service digital marketing agency built specifically for the veterinary community. As an entrepreneur, international speaker, veterinary thought leader, and digital marketing enthusiast who has leveraged his love of people and pets to help veterinary practices grow and thrive - Stephanie thought Bill would be the perfect guest to talk strategy with. Bill's team and their more than 8,000 client success stories are the basis for his speaking sessions and his drive to help practices learn how to actually implement these things in your practice. Bill serves on the Board of Directors for VetPartners, teaches within the MBA program at Purdue University, and can be found teaching from many of the veterinary conference stages around the world. Stephanie asked Bill to come discuss the three most important things every clinic should be doing right now to keep clients coming in the doors. Between outsourcing google ads and online reputation management, Stephanie and Bill give you realistic tips that you can put into practice today. Let's get into this episode... UPCOMING INFO/EVENTS Embark on the last journey to Greenville with us before we venture into uncharted waters! Uncharted Veterinary Conference: https://unchartedvet.com/uvc-april-2024/ In a world filled with noise—news, content, and promotions bombarding us from all directions—your business struggles to be heard above the clamor. Amid countless messages vying for attention, how can you ensure your message stands out? How can you craft a narrative that gives your brand a distinctive voice and resonates with your community without resorting to shouting? It's time to anchor down and rise above the sea of noise. Join us this April at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference, where prominent voices in veterinary medicine and beyond will converge to explore how veterinary brands can break through the surface. Prepare to learn, share insights, and make waves in your veterinary practice. Register now to be part of this transformative experience in April 2024 at Uncharted. If you can't join us in Greenville, consider checking out our new Leadership Essentials Certificate https://unchartedvet.com/certificates/ - you can access the program online OR in person. Our team may be coming soon to a city near you. Check out the program and all our upcoming dates on the website. https://unchartedvet.com/ontheroad Our Uncharted Leadership Essentials Certificate consists of seven fundamental building blocks, empowers leaders at any level to achieve excellence. This on-demand program offers 8 hours of CE, fostering the skills necessary to lead high-performing and collaborative teams. Exclusive access is granted to Uncharted members as part of their membership benefits, making it the opportune time to join our community! Uncharted Membership: https://unchartedvet.com/uvc-membership/ Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love to hear discussed on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/

Dr. Andy Roark and practice management super geek, Stephanie Goss are back with another letter from our mailbag. This time a manager writes in who is struggling with communication in her practice. This manager's newish to practice ownership DVM struggles to communicate with the team as a whole. The manager is fielding complaints from the team about the holes in communication. And to make it more challenging, the practice owner's wife is also heavily involved in the practice, despite her lack of veterinary background. This manager is struggling with knowing how to address the team's concerns when they share some of them as well as struggling to find their own place in the triangle between the practice owner, their partner and the manager. This one is a doozy, let's get into this.... UPCOMING EVENTS/INFO

On this week's episode of the Uncharted Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice management super nerd, Stephanie Goss take on a new kind of mailbag. This time, our listener struggles with writing a recommendation letter but not for the reason you might think. This person cannot stop gushing over their rockstar vet tech and is wondering what even makes for a good recommendation letter in the first place. Together, Andy and Stephanie give their tips for effective recommendation letters and how to politely decline if you may not be the right person to write it. Let's get into this episode.... Upcoming Events/Info As a leader, you have the ability to shape workplace culture, influence patient outcomes, and help veterinary teams thrive in practice. Developing the skills you need to succeed as a leader in today's dynamic veterinary business landscape starts here. An Uncharted Leadership Essentials Certificate provides you with seven crucial building blocks to lead with confidence at any level and achieve excellence in your veterinary practice. This new Certificate program offers 8 hours of CE in an on-demand format that will equip veterinary professionals to lead high-performing and collaborative teams. Our Uncharted members get special access included in their membership so there has never been a better time to join the community than right now! COME TO GREENVILLE WITH US ONE LAST TIME BEFORE WE HEAD OUT INTO UNCHARTED WATERS! The world is noisy. News. Content. Promotions. There are messages swirling all around us. In our inboxes, on our phones, on the radio, on the drive down the street. It's message after message competing for our attention. And your business is caught in the current. So how do you make sure your message is heard? How do you tell a story that gives your brand a unique voice? How do you connect with your community without simply shouting louder? It's time to drop anchor and stand out in a sea of noise. This April, we're bringing big voices in veterinary medicine and beyond together at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference to discover how veterinary brands can rise above the surface. Get ready to learn, share, and make waves at your veterinary practice. REGISTER NOW TO JOIN US IN APRIL 2024 at Uncharted. Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/

This week on the podcast, veterinary practice management super nerd Stephanie Goss gets to dive into another mailbag but this time, with RVT and Manager, Tami Lind. This mailbag comes from an ER Practice Manager who loves how close the team is but is struggling to accommodate giving them time off together. Stephanie and Tami navigate the very difficult world of time off requests and what to do when you simply can't please everyone. Let's get into this... ABOUT OUR GUEST Tami Lind, RVT is currently ICU, ER and Immediate Care supervisor at Purdue University and has been working at the university for the last 13 years. She attended veterinary technology school at Purdue and graduated in 2010 with a bachelor's degree in Veterinary technology. Two years later Tami assumed the ICU and ER supervisor role at Purdue University. She received her VTS in Emergency/Critical Care in 2016. Her passion is teaching veterinary nurses and veterinary students in preparing them for their career ahead. UPCOMING EVENTS/INFO ⚓ Join us at the Practice Manager Summit – a virtual event designed to tackle the unique challenges faced by practice managers. Dive into interactive workshop sessions, peer discussion segments, and experience the energy of Uncharted events firsthand! ✨ Explore sessions on.....

This week on the Uncharted Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark is joined by veterinary practice management expert, Dr. Amanda Donnelly and together they tackle another question from the mailbag. In this episode, they take on the challenge of a veterinarian who, despite being exceptional with clients and production, struggles with efficiency in exam rooms, causing a backlog of duties. This backlog bleeds into other doctor's plates, having to have them finish his work yet the practice owner is hesitant to discipline for fear of losing this veterinarian. Dr. Amanda Donnelly offers her insight to strategize ways to set clearer job expectations, foster self-reflection, and provide effective feedback. Together, they explore external resources like mentorship programs and leadership coaching to enhance the vet's performance. Let's get into this episode....

This week on the podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice management wiz, Stephanie Goss, tackle the intricacies of performance improvement plans in the veterinary setting that aren't all negative. The traditional approach has been carrot and stick when it comes to performance management. We know that approach is damaging to good culture where there is an environment of self-driven improvement and goals. This time, the mailbag brings us someone from the corporate world who is struggling to find balance between uplifting their team by creating psychological safety and still protecting the practice from a legal perspective through documentation of mistakes. The duo explores the dichotomy between transactional leadership and transformational leadership, shedding light on how both are truly necessary to run great cultures. Let's get into this episode! UPCOMING EVENTS

This week on the podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and former practice administrator and veterinary practice management super nerd Stephanie Goss dive into an email they received in the mailbag. A listener of the podcast heard episode 229 where a technician was sure that the team had to be talking behind their back. Andy and Stephanie discussed having self-awareness as a skill in that episode and our listener wanted to know how to handle it when you have a team member or team members who seem to have little to no self-awareness skills. The questions boiled down to "How do you actually teach self-awareness?" Is it actually possible? Andy and Stephanie feel really strongly that for the most part it is and there are some ways that make approaching the teaching aspect a lot less of an uphill battle. This is a rowdy one, let's get into this... RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE DiSC Information and Assessments https://www.discprofile.com/what-is-disc Veterinary Leadership Institute's Veterinary Leadership Experience https://veterinaryleadershipinstitute.org/programs/vle/ UPCOMING EVENTS/INFO As a leader, you have the ability to shape workplace culture, influence patient outcomes, and help veterinary teams thrive in practice. Developing the skills you need to succeed as a leader in today's dynamic veterinary business landscape starts here. An Uncharted Leadership Essentials Certificate provides you with seven crucial building blocks to lead with confidence at any level and achieve excellence in your veterinary practice. This new Certificate program offers 8 hours of CE in an on-demand format that will equip veterinary professionals to lead high-performing and collaborative teams. Our Uncharted members get special access included in their membership so there has never been a better time to join the community than right now! https://unchartedvet.com/certificates/ Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

This week on the podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice management super geek, Stephanie Goss are talking about love. Love languages that is. We received an email in the mailbag from a practice owner who loves their team. They have tried acknowledging the hard working individuals in a variety of ways from bonuses to holiday gifts to celebrating during tech week and behind. They feel like nothing they have tried seems to be truly appreciated by the team and they are wondering what they are doing wrong. They want the team to not only know their value but feel it and they are reaching out for some help and advice figuring out how to solve this problem. Andy and Stephanie walk through headspace around the unique position as a practice owner in this scenario and talk through how to recognize what team members value and how they like to receive appreciation in their own love language. Let's get into this... RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE The Languages of Appreciation at Work: https://www.appreciationatwork.com/work-personality-test/ UPCOMING EVENTS/INFO As a leader, you have the ability to shape workplace culture, influence patient outcomes, and help veterinary teams thrive in practice. Developing the skills you need to succeed as a leader in today's dynamic veterinary business landscape starts here. An Uncharted Leadership Essentials Certificate provides you with seven crucial building blocks to lead with confidence at any level and achieve excellence in your veterinary practice. This new Certificate program offers 8 hours of CE in an on-demand format that will equip veterinary professionals to lead high-performing and collaborative teams. Our Uncharted members get special access included in their membership so there has never been a better time to join the community than right now! Leadership Essentials Program: https://unchartedvet.com/certificates/ Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

In this week's episode, Dr. Andy Roark is joined by Adam Christman and Louise Dunn to discuss their favorite tips for handling financial conversations. Together they tackle some of the common challenges we face as veterinary professionals and offer various resources to make sure we're keeping care accessible. They both offer insight into effective team training as well as the importance of creating a special veterinary experience for your clients. Let's get into this episode! This episode is brought to you by CareCredit! https://www.carecredit.com/vetmed/ This information is shared solely for your convenience. All statements are the sole opinions of Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, and neither Synchrony nor its affiliates, including CareCredit, make any representations or warranties regarding the content. LINKS AAHA Article on Pet To Care Study: https://www.aaha.org/publications/newstat/articles/2022-08/getting-to-know-the-path-to-care-can-help-bring-more-clients-your-way/ CareCredit Tip Sheet: https://www.carecredit.com/sites/pc/pdf/financial-care-supports-care-for-pets.pdf Pet Health Finder: https://www.pethelpfinder.org/m/phf Pawlicy Advisor: https://www.pawlicy.com Pet's Best Resources: https://www.petsbest.com/vets ABOUT OUR GUESTS Louise Dunn is a renowned award-winning international speaker, writer and consultant. She brings over 40 years of in the trenches experience and her business education to veterinary management. Louise is founder and CEO of Snowgoose Veterinary Management Consulting. SVMC works with veterinarians who want to develop a strategic plan that consistently produces results. Most recently Louise received many awards including the WVC Educator of the Year numerous times and VetPartner's The Life Time achievement Award in January 2016. Besides all aspects of practice management and mentoring, Louise's passions include her husband Joel, Annabelle her English mastiff Therapy dog and her little sister Afton, kayaking, opera , gardening and New England Patriot's football. Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, is the chief veterinary officer for dvm360®—an MJH Life Sciences® company —who oversees content strategy and development and is the brand voice and personality for dvm360®'s multimedia channels. As a charismatic leader, he brings wit, humor, and authenticity to animal health care as the host of a new web-based talk show, dvm360 Live!™, The Vet Blast Podcast, continuing education webinars, and live media broadcasts. Christman also has been in private practice and shelter medicine for 18 years and is currently a member and treasurer of the New Jersey Veterinary Medical Association. He received his DVM degree from Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in Ames, Iowa, and his MBA from Aspen University in Denver, Colorado. Christman is a national thought leader, speaker, and author on practice management, social media, and rehabilitation, and coauthored, “Honey, Have You Squeezed the Dachshund? A Pet Owner's Guide for Owners Who Are Terrified of IVDD”—a book on dogs with disabilities. He has been featured in multiple publications and appeared on various multimedia shows throughout the United States, sharing his expertise and passion on all things veterinary medicine. As an avid social media influencer for animal health care, he has over 800,000 followers on TikTok and 53,000 followers on Instagram. He loves to engage with fellow pet parents and veterinary professionals across social media. Christman is an advocate of Pride VMC and Pawsibilities. He is also the proud dog dad to 4 dachshunds and believes no one should be deprived of the incredible human-animal bond.

This week on the podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice manager Stephanie Goss are in the mailbag to tackle an email from a member of a hospital leadership team who is worried they have a narcissist on the team and it doesn't seem like the practice owner is willing to deal with the behavior from this person or get rid of them. The team is dropping like flies as a result of naughty behavior from this team member and this leader is wondering what they can do to help in this situation. Let's get into this... COME TO GREENVILLE WITH US ONE LAST TIME BEFORE WE HEAD OUT INTO UNCHARTED WATERS! The world is noisy. News. Content. Promotions. There are messages swirling all around us. In our inboxes, on our phones, on the radio, on the drive down the street. It's message after message competing for our attention. And your business is caught in the current. So how do you make sure your message is heard? How do you tell a story that gives your brand a unique voice? How do you connect with your community without simply shouting louder? It's time to drop anchor and stand out in a sea of noise. This April, we're bringing big voices in veterinary medicine and beyond together at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference to discover how veterinary brands can rise above the surface. Get ready to learn, share, and make waves at your veterinary practice. REGISTER NOW TO JOIN US IN APRIL 2024 at Uncharted. Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

This week on the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Stephanie Goss and her special guest co-host, Maria Pirita, CVPM dive into a discussion about how to navigate the tricky waters when you go from being friends and a part of the team to being their boss. In this case, the new practice manager is facing an even more uphill battle because they aren't quite sure that the practice owner has their back. The team sides with decisions the old practice manager would have made and if the practice owner doesn't wade in, this manager is left feeling like they have no friends AND no one respects them. Good thing Stephanie and Maria aren't afraid of swimming through the uncharted waters. Let's get into this. LINKS: UVP: I'm the Boss, Can We Still Be Friends? : https://unchartedvet.com/friends-with-the-boss/ UVP: If You and I Hang Out, Does Everyone Need To Be Invited? : https://unchartedvet.com/does-everyone-need-to-be-invited/ UPCOMING EVENTS: https://unchartedvet.com/practice-manager-summit-2024/ HEY, PRACTICE MANAGER, THIS DAY IS FOR YOU There's no one else like you in the veterinary practice. Managing the business. Moderating conflict within the team. Fixing broken printers, again. You wear more hats than anyone else in the practice. All of these look great on you, of course. That doesn't mean the challenges of leadership don't phase you. Managing people effectively in a field that is tied tightly to emotions and high-speed decision-making is a constant learning experience. You need tools and strategies to take the reins and guide your team through it all…and support for you too. It's time to connect with your fellow practice managers to share what gets you excited about your role, find solutions for what needs your focus now, and discover new ways to shine even brighter as a manager. Come join us for this one day, virtual summit! A community awaits you. Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to role play on the podcast - a situation where you would love some examples of what someone else would say and how they would say it? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! We want to hear your challenges and would love to feature your scenario on the podcast. Head over to the mailbag and submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

This week on the podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and practice manager Stephanie Goss chat about the personal and professional challenges faced by a new veterinarian who started working at a practice where she previously functioned as a technician. They dive deep into how behaviors and perceptions from her past role have affected her current role, leading to conflicts of priority and time management. Andy and Stephanie walk through their thoughts on how to establish boundaries, leverage teamwork, and handle these challenges. The conversation also navigates strategies for better self-awareness, handling requests, and the concept of creating 'friction' to narrow down responsibilities. Let's get into this! COME TO GREENVILLE WITH US ONE LAST TIME BEFORE WE HEAD OUT INTO UNCHARTED WATERS! The world is noisy. News. Content. Promotions. There are messages swirling all around us. In our inboxes, on our phones, on the radio, on the drive down the street. It's message after message competing for our attention. And your business is caught in the current. So how do you make sure your message is heard? How do you tell a story that gives your brand a unique voice? How do you connect with your community without simply shouting louder? It's time to drop anchor and stand out in a sea of noise. This April, we're bringing big voices in veterinary medicine and beyond together at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference to discover how veterinary brands can rise above the surface. Get ready to learn, share, and make waves at your veterinary practice. REGISTER NOW TO JOIN US IN APRIL 2024 at Uncharted: https://unchartedvet.com/uvc-april-2024/ Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

This week on the Uncharted Podcast, practice management geek Stephanie Goss takes the reins and invites her close friends Tyler Grogan, CVT - Director of Creative Marketing at Uncharted and Eric Garcia, CEO of Simply Done Tech Solutions to cohost the episode. In case you haven't heard Tyler and/or Eric on the podcast before, you are in for a treat. Tyler Grogan is a Certified Veterinary Technician with experience in specialty, emergency and general practice. A total Hufflepuff and Scrabble enthusiast, Tyler brings her experience with brand building, marketing, storytelling across multiple digital platforms, and exploring new ways to elevate the client experience to the Uncharted community, events and team. Eric Garcia is an IT expert, digital marketer and veterinary industry thought leader when it comes to social media and marketing. Eric was voted VMX 2020 Speaker of the Year by conference attendees and he speaks regularly at conferences all throughout the world. With all that travel and living his work life online, Eric has made it part of his lifestyle to regularly unplug from technology and the internet. This week, Stephanie, Tyler and Eric revisit their experiences unplugging since Uncharted podcast episode 195 (https://unchartedvet.com/unplug-fail/). They talk through some of the major wins and some of the not so shining moments for each of them in learning to unplug. They also dive in to a discussion on why social media can be problematic within our industry and how creating healthy technology boundaries can contribute to a better overall well-being. Let's get into this... Click here to get your free ebook about Unplugging and learn more about it: https://ericgarciafl.com/unplugged/ COME TO GREENVILLE WITH US ONE LAST TIME BEFORE WE HEAD OUT INTO UNCHARTED WATERS! The world is noisy. News. Content. Promotions. There are messages swirling all around us. In our inboxes, on our phones, on the radio, on the drive down the street. It's message after message competing for our attention. And your business is caught in the current. So how do you make sure your message is heard? How do you tell a story that gives your brand a unique voice? How do you connect with your community without simply shouting louder? REGISTER NOW TO JOIN US IN APRIL 2024 at Uncharted and get ready to learn, share, and make waves at your veterinary practice. Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to role play on the podcast - a situation where you would love some examples of what someone else would say and how they would say it? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! We want to hear your challenges and would love to feature your scenario on the podcast. Head over to the mailbag and submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

On this week's episode, Dr. Andy Roark and veterinary practice management nerd Stephanie Goss look back at the past year and talk about some of the the leadership lessons they've learned. Together they discuss learning to lean into the uncomfortable things, how learning to have patience is key as a leader and how slowing down is sometimes necessary when you want your team to eventually get faster. Let's get into this episode.... COME TO GREENVILLE WITH US ONE LAST TIME BEFORE WE HEAD OUT INTO UNCHARTED WATERS! The world is noisy. News. Content. Promotions. There are messages swirling all around us. In our inboxes, on our phones, on the radio, on the drive down the street. It's message after message competing for our attention. And your business is caught in the current. So how do you make sure your message is heard? How do you tell a story that gives your brand a unique voice? How do you connect with your community without simply shouting louder? It's time to drop anchor and stand out in a sea of noise. This April, we're bringing big voices in veterinary medicine and beyond together at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference to discover how veterinary brands can rise above the surface. Get ready to learn, share, and make waves at your veterinary practice. REGISTER NOW TO JOIN US IN APRIL 2024 at Uncharted. Upcoming events: unchartedvet.com/upcoming-events/ All Links: linktr.ee/UnchartedVet Do you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to role play on the podcast - a situation where you would love some examples of what someone else would say and how they would say it? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! We want to hear your challenges and would love to feature your scenario on the podcast. Head over to the mailbag and submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag