Freewheelin' Veterinary Business Q&a Podcast

Episode DescriptionIn this podcast episode, Dr. Adam Christman and Dr. Moriah McCauley delve into the importance of defining your brand and embracing what makes you unique in the social media realm, particularly for new graduate veterinarians looking to establish a presence on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.Key Takeaways from the Episode:Uniqueness in Branding: Dr. Christman stresses that every individual in the veterinary field possesses a unique voice, perspective, and brand. He emphasizes the significance of avoiding comparisons with others and recognizing the value of one's own experiences and expertise.Starting with Your Why: Before immersing yourself in social media, it is essential to understand the motivation or "why" behind wanting to be active on these platforms. Whether the goal is to educate pet owners, share clinical insights, or simply showcase a love for animals, having a clear purpose will guide your content creation.Establishing Boundaries: Dr. Christman and Dr. McCauley discuss the impo

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?" host Dr. Moriah McAuley is joined by Dr. Mike Walker, the founder of Apollo Vet in Wimberley, Texas. They discuss the mentorship philosophy at Apollo Vet, particularly focusing on how they support new graduates entering the field. They share insights from a recent conversation with a new vet who is currently experiencing the mentorship program at Apollo Vet and expresses satisfaction with the guidance being received. The episode delves into the differences between private practice and corporate mentorship programs, emphasizing that each mentorship relationship is unique and should be tailored accordingly. This special episode was recorded on the move at the VMX conference, so listeners will get to experience the lively atmosphere of the event in the background.Episode Outline[00:01:44-00:01:55] Mentorship in Veterinary Practice.[00:07:42-00:07:53] New grad mentorship approach.[00:10:25] Tailored Grad Training Programs[00:14:49-0

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Valerie Marcano. They discuss the importance of setting clear goals and objectives for achieving success. The host discusses how having a clear direction and purpose greatly impacts one's ability to reach desired outcomes. By setting clear goals, individuals can focus their efforts and resources towards achieving them. This clear vision enables better decision-making and actions that align with objectives. The episode also highlights the significance of setting specific and measurable goals, as they provide a benchmark for progress and allow individuals to track their success. Additionally, the host emphasizes the need to regularly review and adjust goals as circumstances change, ensuring their relevance and achievability. Overall, the episode underscores the fundamental step of setting clear goals and objectives towards achieving success.Episode Outline[00:02:41] Multi-generatio

Episode DescriptionWelcome back to the "So You're a Vet, Now What?" podcast. In this week’s episode, Dr. Moriah McAuley is joined by Dr. Kate Boatwright. They unpack a treasure trove of tips and strategies for new and early career veterinarians attending large-scale events like VMX, the Veterinary Meeting and Expo.1. Choosing CE LecturesNavigating the vast array of Continuing Education (CE) options at conferences can be overwhelming. Kate and I discuss strategies to help you select the most relevant lectures, including focusing on specific areas of interest and utilising detailed proceedings to prioritise sessions. Remember, it's not just about the clinical lectures—professional development sessions on communication, wellness, and mentorship can be equally valuable.2. Networking TipsNetworking is a crucial, yet sometimes daunting, aspect of conferences. We emphasise the importance of being proactive in the expo hall and at networking events. Don't be shy—approach speakers and attendees, exchange business card

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet, Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Molly Brinkmann. They discuss Dr. Brinkmann’s significant realization that the environment they are in changes you, rather than you changing the environment. This moment prompted Dr. Brinkmann to re-prioritize and consider what is truly important to her. As a result, Dr. Brinkmann made a pivot in her career path and decided not to return to large animal practice.Dr. Brinkmann also emphasizes the importance of regularly checking in with oneself to ensure personal growth rather than falling into the trap of anxiety. She highlights the significance of reflecting on one's situation and being open to making necessary changes. Additionally, Dr. Brinkmann stresses the value of having honest individuals in your life who can provide feedback on the impact of their career on their well-being. In Dr. Brinkmann’s case, their husband and parents play this role by recognizing their unhappiness in their

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet, Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Cris Blevins as they discuss the importance of reflection in mentorship and discuss strategies to create a more focused and uninterrupted environment for mentorship meetings. Dr. Blevins suggests meeting offsite, away from distractions in the veterinary hospital, once a week for an hour. By doing so, mentors and mentees can reflect on their progress, discuss accomplishments, and plan for the future without interruptions.Dr. Blevins explains that meeting offsite is crucial to avoid the common distractions that occur in a veterinary hospital setting. They note that important meetings held behind closed doors in the hospital often face interruptions, which can hinder the effectiveness of the reflection process. By choosing a quiet and private location outside of the hospital, mentors and mentees can create an environment conducive to meaningful discussions.Furthermore, Dr. Blevins emphasizes

Episode DescriptionIn the second part of last week’s episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet, Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley continues her conversation with Dr. Sarah Wolff. Dr. Wolf discusses the importance of allowing clients to express their concerns in their own words and avoiding any miscommunication. Dr. Wolff highlights that the clinical story can often change from when a team member gathers the history to when the veterinarian enters the room. Therefore, it is crucial to directly ask the client about their concerns and allow them to explain in their own words. This approach ensures accurate information and minimizes misunderstandings. By actively listening to the client's perspective, the veterinarian can address their concerns more effectively and provide appropriate solutions.Dr. Wolff also emphasizes the significance of expressing genuine sympathy and appreciation for the client's feedback when addressing their concerns. Dr. Wolff believes that people are not accustomed to receiving posi

Episode DescriptionIn this week’s ‘So You’re a Vet, Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Sarah Wolff. They discuss the importance of veterinarians avoiding negative mindsets and interactions with clients. Dr. Wolff highlights the common occurrence of veterinary professionals engaging in negative conversations and gossip about clients, which can create a sense of superiority and hinder effective communication and empathy.Dr. Wolff emphasizes that this negative mindset is unhelpful for everyone involved, including the clients. She explains that when veterinarians engage in negative interactions or gossip, it creates a negative feedback loop that perpetuates more negative interactions and can lead to conflicts with clients. She cautions against entering the examination room with a negative mindset, as it can impact the quality of care provided and hinder the development of a trusting relationship with the client.Instead, Dr. Wolff suggests that veterinarians should focus on reading the c

Episode DescriptionWelcome back to another episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?" I'm your host, Dr. Moriah McCauley, and today we had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Monica Tarantino, affectionately known as the Senior Dog Doc on Instagram. Our conversation was particularly insightful for new and recent veterinary graduates who may find themselves overwhelmed by the complexities of treating senior pets.In this episode, we dove deep into the world of geriatric veterinary care, focusing on a hypothetical but all-too-familiar patient: Murphy, a 15-year-old Cavachon with a myriad of health issues. Dr. Tarantino shared her expertise on how to approach these challenging cases without succumbing to the anxiety that often accompanies them.Dr. Tarantino's passion for senior pet care shone through as she discussed the fulfillment that comes from developing relationships with these animals and their owners. She also highlighted resources available for vets who share her passion, including the Senior and Geriatric Do

Episode DescriptionIn this week’s episode of the "So You're a Vet, Now What?" podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Dave Nicol to tackle the crucial transition from vet student to professional veterinarian. The conversation delves into the mindset shift required as new grads step into a leadership role, loaded with a fresh set of responsibilities. This episode provides invaluable resources for final-year vet students and recent graduates, providing career and clinical tips to ease the journey into successful veterinary practice. Join Dr. Moriah and Dr. Nicol as they lay out the path to becoming an effective leader in the world of veterinary medicine.Episode Outline[00:01:11] Leadership in Veterinary Medicine.[00:03:43] Project-based leadership.[00:07:22] Embracing uncertainty in practice.[00:11:07] Clinical decision confidence.[00:16:14] Emergency situation processes.[00:17:43] Decision-making challenges.[00:20:44] Decision Fatigue Discussion.Quotes"Whether you're clinical leadership or

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the "So You're a Vet, Now What?" podcast, host Dr. Moriah McAuley is joined by Dr. Courtney Deer, also known as er.dvm on social media. They discuss the challenges of sharing educational content on social media and how to respond to negative comments. Dr. Deer shares her experiences and insights on how to navigate these challenges as a veterinarian.Dr. Deer also encourages recent and new veterinarians to develop their own presence on social media and build their personal brand to further connect with their audience and spread educational content.Another key point highlighted in the episode is the importance of building a community and protecting mental health through social media. Dr. Deer emphasizes that being a presence on social media is crucial because clients and patients need the support and information that veterinary clinics can provide. By actively engaging with followers and creating a safe and supportive environment, veterinary clinics can foster a sense of com

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet, Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley emphasizes the importance of seeking help and finding a mentor in the veterinary profession. As a new graduate, it is common to feel knowledgeable, but the reality is that there is still much to learn in the field of veterinary medicine. Dr. Moriah describes the information learned in vet school as being "a mile wide and an inch deep," while in practice, one must acquire knowledge that is "a mile deep and an inch wide." This highlights the need for continuous learning and guidance from experienced veterinarians.Dr. Moriah encourages new graduates to actively seek help and find mentors both within and outside of their practice. By doing so, they can navigate challenges with more confidence and preparation. Sharing experiences and hearing others talk through similar situations can make individuals feel more prepared to handle them. It is important to note that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but r

Episode DescriptionThe episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet, Now What?’ podcast explores the importance of teaching students and practitioners about nonverbal communication and emotional intelligence in veterinary medicine. Dr. Moriah McAuley emphasizes that while veterinary medicine involves caring for animals, it is primarily about dealing with people. Therefore, empathy and effective communication skills are crucial in veterinary practice.Dr. Moriah explains that nonverbal communication and emotional intelligence are the foundations for empathy. Understanding clients' nonverbal cues and emotions allows veterinarians to connect with them on a deeper level and provide the necessary support. By demonstrating understanding and value, veterinarians can establish strong bonds and relationships with their clients.The episode also references research conducted in human medicine, which suggests that empathy can be taught and developed. This finding implies that veterinary students and practitioners can also enhance thei

Episode DescriptionIn this week’s ‘So You’re a Vet, Now What?’ podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Chloe Buiting as they delve into the transformative impact of practicing veterinary medicine in foreign countries, highlighting heightened adaptation and innovation. Dr. Buiting underlines how veterinarians, even in their native countries, regularly encounter differences necessitating adaptation. However, working abroad intensifies this need, challenging vets to think beyond their familiar norms and ultimately fostering heightened creativity and problem-solving skills.The episode features Loop Abroad, a program designed to cultivate these adaptive and innovative skills in students by exposing them to diverse cultures and practices. This approach aims to prepare them for the challenges of veterinary practice, emphasizing the value of early career exploration.The founders of Loop Abroad, recent veterinary graduates themselves, crafted the programs based on their experiences, identifying gaps in thei

In this week's podcast, host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by founder of Ready, Vet, Go, Dr. Dani Rabwin. They discuss losing your community after graduating vet school and the struggles of entering practice as a newly qualified vet.

Episode Description Are you a veterinarian looking to make a significant impact in your field? In this enlightening episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?" hosted by the insightful Dr. Moriah McCauley, dive into the essential world of veterinary mentorship and discover the top reasons why becoming a mentor is crucial for the success and growth of individuals and practices in the veterinary realm.Join Dr. Moriah McCauley as she unravels the intricacies of mentorship in the veterinary profession. The episode opens with a candid discussion on the fundamental qualities of a mentor and their pivotal role in guiding, motivating, and teaching individuals in the holistic approach to veterinary medicine.Throughout the episode, Dr. McCauley delves into the core reasons why stepping into the role of a veterinary mentor is more crucial now than ever. She emphasizes the urgent need for mentors, particularly for new graduates entering the field, shedding light on statistics and real-life implications of mentorship on

Podcast DescriptionJoin us in this insightful episode of "So You’re a Vet, Now What?" where Dr. Moriah McCauley, the podcast's host, engages in a candid and thought-provoking conversation with board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Crystal Bowles. The episode sheds light on the ever-relevant theme of imposter syndrome and the journey through doubts and mentorship in the veterinary profession.Dr. Bowles reflects on her own experience, tracing back to her early days in vet school when she began to question her qualifications and direction in the field. The conversation touches on the pivotal moments when doubts surfaced, primarily during her fourth year of vet school, and the pressures of career decisions when comparing herself to her peers.With refreshing honesty, Dr. Bowles shares her personal journey, including the decision to pursue an internship for guidance and the crucial role camaraderie played among peers facing similar uncertainties. She elaborates on the struggle with imposter syndrome, a sentiment tha

So You're a Vet, Now What?With Dr. Marissa HakeEpisode Description Welcome to the 'So You're a Vet, Now What?' Podcast! In this episode, our fantastic host, Dr. Moriah McCauley, delves into the world of mentorship in the food animal sector. Join her as she continues her conversation with Dr. Marissa Hake, a passionate advocate for mentorship in veterinary medicine. They explore the landscape of mentorship in food animal medicine, discussing the challenges and opportunities it presents.Dr. Marissa emphasizes the importance of well-rounded mentorship, including mentorship not only in veterinary skills but also in the business of agriculture. The conversation touches on the need for support within rural practices and the unique challenges they face. They propose innovative solutions like collaborative mentorship efforts among smaller clinics in rural areas and structured mentor-mentee relationships that set clear expectations and milestones.The discussion also explores the impact of social media on new vete

So You're a Vet, Now What?With Dr. Marissa HakeEpisode DescriptionWelcome to a new episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?" This podcast is your trusted companion on the pathway to success in veterinary medicine. In this episode, our host, Dr. Moriah McCauley, discusses the shortage of veterinarians in the food animal sector and the changing landscape of veterinary practices. She's joined by Dr. Marissa Hake, a cattle veterinarian, to dive into the challenges and opportunities in the field.Marissa shares insights into the impact of industry consolidation on the profession, the evolving role of food animal veterinarians, and the changing demographics of both veterinarians and their clients. They discuss the experiences of female veterinarians in the field, the importance of mentorship, and the need for peer mentorship to support new graduates.They touch on the challenges of rural practice and how to help veterinarians feel integrated into their communities. Moriah and Marissa emphasize the importance of adapti

Episode Description Welcome to another episode of ‘So You’re a Vet Now What?’, the podcast that serves as your audio mentor in your journey as a veterinarian. In this episode, our host, Dr. Moriah McCauley, welcomes back Dr. Alex Sigmund, a board-certified ophthalmologist, to discuss a clinical case involving a young brachycephalic dog with a red, painful eye. They delve into diagnostics, medication choices, and client communication to ensure proper care for this patient.Dr. McCauley seeks advice from Dr. Sigmund, who shares valuable insights into treating eye ulcers. They discuss the importance of visualizing the eye, conducting a Schirmer tear test, and using fluorescein stain to assess the cornea's condition. Dr. Sigmund emphasizes the significance of diagnosing and treating infected ulcers promptly.The conversation covers the choice of antibiotics, with Dr. Sigmund recommending ofloxacin for infected ulcers and discussing the need for culture or cytology to identify the specific bacteria involved. Th