Freewheelin' Veterinary Business Q&a Podcast

This week, Dr. Moriah McCauley returns with a heartfelt solo episode dedicated to every new grad stepping out into the veterinary world. If you’ve just crossed the stage and earned your DVM, congratulations, this one’s for you.Dr. McCauley reflects on her own journey five years post-grad and offers a candid, compassionate look at what the first year in practice really feels like. From the adrenaline rush of finally becoming a vet to the unexpected emotional turbulence of job interviews and gut instincts, this episode is a reassuring guide to navigating the choices ahead.She shares her personal story of finding her first job through AVMA classifieds, and how an early encounter with her now-mentor helped shape the trajectory of her career. With clarity and care, she unpacks what to look for in a mentor, why psychological safety matters, and the five markers—The 5 C’s—that signal a truly supportive practice culture.Whether you’re still searching for your first role or preparing to start next week, this episode o

In this episode of So You’re a Vet, Now What?, Dr. Moriah McCauley sits down with Dr. Whitney Terrell, veterinarian and social media educator, to explore how mentorship gone wrong can still lead to something incredibly right.Dr. Terrell shares her story of starting out as a bright-eyed new grad with dreams of becoming a mixed-animal vet, only to face the crushing reality of broken promises, toxic culture, and emotional burnout during her first job out of vet school. Her story is a powerful account of resilience, self-respect, and the long-term impact of doing things differently.From fielding gaslighting and isolation in a supposedly mentorship-based role to walking away with her dignity intact, and later becoming the kind of mentor she never had, Dr. Terrell’s story is one that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like quitting. This episode is for the new grads navigating toxic clinics, the seasoned vets reflecting on how to lead with more grace, and anyone wondering if it’s ever okay to say, “This isn’

This week, Dr. Moriah McCauley reflects on last week’s inspiring conversation with Dr. Zonram Liao [Ep 261], a veterinarian whose life and practice are deeply rooted in the power of community. In a world that often feels disconnected, Dr. Liao’s story reminds us how vital it is to be surrounded by people who uplift, support, and believe in each other. From growing up as a parachute kid to building a veterinary practice just minutes from his old school, his journey is one of giving back, intentional mentorship, and creating a clinic culture that thrives on collaboration and care.Moriah also shares insights from recent Instagram polls about first-year experiences in practice. The responses reveal a concerning lack of support and mentorship, highlighting why this conversation around intentional mentorship and strong community ties is more crucial than ever.Whether you’re a student, new grad, or seasoned vet, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the kind of profession, and life, we’re all capable of shaping.Ep

In this episode of So You’re a Vet, Now What?, Dr. Moriah McCauley sits down with Dr. Zonram Liao—veterinarian, content creator, and founder of Sunshine Veterinary Care and Wellnergy Pets—to explore what it means to build a veterinary practice rooted in gratitude, mentorship, and service to community.Dr. Liao, affectionately known as “Dr. Z,” shares the incredible story of how being a “parachute kid” in Diamond Bar, California inspired his return home to build something deeply meaningful for both pets and people. From opening a clinic just minutes from his childhood school to mentoring 18 students in under a year, Dr. Z shows us what it looks like to lead with heart, raise up the next generation, and grow a sustainable practice culture—one student, one client, one case at a time.This episode is for anyone who’s ever wondered how to mentor without a manual, why attitude sometimes matters more than experience, and how community-focused care can transform both your career and your life.Episode Outline[00:00] – W

This week, Dr. Moriah McCauley invites us to hit pause and take a breath as we reflect on the veterinary year so far. With May marking the halfway point, it’s the perfect time for a values-driven check-in. Drawing inspiration from last week’s episode with Dr. Christine Staten, Moriah dives into how defining (or redefining) your mission, vision, and values—both personally and as a practice—can lead to better culture, stronger mentorship, and more aligned career choices. Whether you're a new grad or a seasoned leader, this episode is your nudge to recalibrate and lead with intention.Episode Outline[00:00] The Culture You Step Into (or Create)[02:58] Lessons in Mentorship from Dr. Christine Staten[06:29] Why Mission, Vision & Values Aren’t Just Buzzwords[10:05] The Practice Check-In: Does Culture Match Intent?[16:08] Crafting Your Own Vision, Mission & Values[21:40] July Announcement: Leading the Mentorship ConversationEpisode LinksSee more from Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.instagram.com/dr.moriah.mc

In this episode of So You’re a Vet, Now What?, Dr. Moriah McCauley welcomes back Dr. Christine Staten—veterinarian, longtime practice owner, and founder of Veterinary MBA—to share the evolution of her mentorship model at Adobe Veterinary Center in Tucson, Arizona.Dr. Staten opens up about the hard lessons she learned after losing five new grads in a row, and how that wake-up call from her clients sparked a complete overhaul of their onboarding and mentorship approach. From SOP binders to salary safety nets, Dr. Staten lays out the nuts and bolts of how they now set up every new graduate for long-term success—both clinically and financially.This episode is a must-listen for private practice owners feeling behind on the “mentorship buzz,” as well as new grads trying to figure out what mentorship actually looks like (and what questions to ask to get it).Episode Outline[00:00] – The Case for Private Practice and Mentorship[00:05] – Mentorship Missteps and the Client Wake-Up Call[00:07] – Turning One-Year Stints i

Dr. Moriah McCauley kicks off this episode with a heartfelt pulse check on the veterinary profession, acknowledging the weird and wobbly energy many are feeling right now. From shifting job markets to corporate clinic closures, she sets the tone for a conversation that’s all about support, growth, and resilience. The spotlight then turns to Dr. Kate Boatright, whose journey through mentorship—both the good and the bad—offers a powerful roadmap for what real mentorship can look like in vet med today.Episode Outline[00:00] Vet Med Pulse Check[02:00] Last Week’s Chat with Dr. Kate[03:19] What You Don’t See at VMAX[04:03] Mentorship That Actually Works[06:34] Scheduling, Support & Green Flags[08:44] Investing in Mentees Long-Term[10:11] Interview Questions New Grads Should Ask[13:33] Why Mentorship Keeps Vets in the Game[14:59] Listener Stories: Why I Stayed[19:10] Avoiding Bore-Out, Building Passion[21:13] Clients as Burnout Buffers[23:00] Seeing the Good in Tough TimesEpisode LinksSee more from Dr. Moriah M

In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley reconnects with Dr. Kate Boatright for a candid look at how mentorship shapes veterinary careers—for better or worse. Kate opens up about her early years in practice, comparing a supportive first clinic to a second job that nearly broke her confidence.She shares how one life-saving emergency case helped her turn the corner, and how those experiences now fuel her mission to help others build better mentorship programs. Whether you're a new grad vet or someone who’s survived a rough start, this episode is packed with honest, practical wisdom on what makes mentorship work—and what happens when it doesn’t.Episode Outline[00:00] Starting Strong: What Great Mentorship Looked Like[04:26] Early Wins and Scheduling Challenges[08:07] When Culture Supports Growth[12:25] The Second Practice: Promises vs. Reality[18:04] The Review That Changed Everything[23:03] Finding Support Again[24:04] A Turning Point[28:33] Learning to Lead and Mentor[34:03] Turning Hard Lessons into Lectures

In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley dives headfirst into a hot topic stirring debate across Vetstagram, TikTok, and beyond: Should veterinary influencers be allowed to speak at CE conferences?Before diving into the controversy, Dr. Moriah offers a warm recap of last week’s episode with Dr. Katie Miller from Rockingham Veterinary Clinic—a rural Kansas practice quietly building a mentorship model that goes far beyond the basics. She highlights how Katie and her team built a species-specific action plan for their new grad, setting quarterly growth goals and fostering a practice-wide culture of mentorship—from vets to vet assistants and beyond.Then it's on to the deep end: What role should social media-savvy vets play in shaping continuing education? Dr. Moriah breaks down the concerns raised by a recent podcast episode questioning the credibility of influencers on the CE stage, and offers a nuanced, thoughtful rebuttal. She explores what really matters when evaluating speakers—credibility, content, and connecti

In this episode of So You're a Vet, Now What?, Dr. Moriah McCauley sits down with Dr. Kathryn Miller of Rocking KM Veterinary Services, a mixed animal practice in central Kansas that's rewriting the mentorship playbook for rural medicine. Dr. Miller shares how her practice has embraced a culture of mentorship—not just for new grads, but for the entire team.She opens up about how mentorship became a cornerstone of their clinic’s growth, the structure they developed to support new grads, and the mindset shift that’s helped everyone on the team—from CSRs to senior vets—grow through collaboration. Through candid reflections, we learn how knowing your team's personalities can make or break a mentorship experience.Whether you're a vet student unsure what to ask for in a first job, or a practice owner hoping to build a program from scratch, this episode is packed with honest insights and ideas you can take back to your clinic.Episode Outline[00:00] – Meet Dr. Kathryn Miller and Rocking KM Vet Services[00:01] – What

In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley explores the surprising upside of imposter syndrome—and why it might actually be a sign you're on the right path. Building off her conversation with Geoffrey van Zijl, she reflects on how mentorship has transformed since the ‘90s, when veterinary technicians were left to sink or swim, and shares Geoffrey’s story of finding his footing in emergency and critical care.Dr. Moriah also breaks down her favorite metaphor for understanding imposter syndrome: the stretch zone. She explains how to tell the difference between growing pains and full-blown burnout, and why the goal of any great mentor is to help you thrive just outside your comfort zone—without tipping into panic.Plus, she answers a listener’s question about mid-career mentorship and introduces the “plus-minus-equals” model: a simple framework for making sure you're always learning and lifting others up. And in the final segment, she sounds the alarm on a deeply concerning trend—fake AI-generated “veterinarians” pushin

In this episode of So You're a Vet, Now What? Dr. Moriah McCauley welcomes Geoffrey van Zijl, a passionate ER technician dedicated to mentoring veterinary technicians. With nearly two decades in the field, Geoffrey shares his journey from the early 90s, when technician support was scarce, to today’s evolving profession. He reflects on the impact of mentorship in reducing burnout and turnover while enhancing patient care.Geoffrey opens up about overcoming burnout through self-reflection and mentorship, emphasizing the need for a supportive learning culture. He shares practical tips for guiding new technicians and celebrates their growth.Episode Outline[00:00:15] - Meet Geoffrey van Zijl: Passionate ER Technician[00:02:08] - The Importance of Mentorship for LVTs[00:03:01] - The Dynamic Duo: Technicians and Veterinarians[00:05:59] - Personal Journey: Overcoming Challenges in the Field[00:08:57] - Finding Passion and Avoiding Burnout[00:16:23] - The Shift to Mentorship: Taking Initiative[00:19:35] - Intentional M

In this episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?", host Dr. Moriah McCauley  welcomes Dr. Alexandru Pop from Appalachian Vet Services. Dr. Pop, a practice owner and seasoned veterinarian, shares invaluable insights into the importance of vulnerability and mentorship in veterinary medicine.As a newly graduated vet in 2019, Dr. Pop had ambitious goals, including practice ownership. Fast forward six years, he now successfully leads a mixed animal multi-doctor practice and emphasizes the significance of cultivating a mentorship culture. Dr. Pop discusses the financial investments involved in hiring new graduates and why these are crucial for effective mentorship.Listeners will hear about Dr. Pop’s thoughtfully crafted mentorship model, which has evolved over the years, and understand why fostering a supportive environment is essential for the growth and success of new vets. This episode is a must-listen for final-year vet students and recent graduates looking for guidance and inspiration on their journey in ve

In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley takes us on a deep dive into the emotional rollercoaster of vet school, the anxiety of waiting for NAVLE results, and the often-overlooked challenges of transitioning from student to practicing veterinarian. Reflecting on her own journey, she shares personal stories from her time at the University of Edinburgh, including the night NAVLE results were released and the impact of having a supportive network during those crucial moments.She also explores the concept of spectrum of care, why it’s vital to understand health literacy and health equity, and how veterinarians can better support their clients by addressing these barriers. Plus, Dr. Moriah tackles a listener's question: "Can I still have a mentor even if I’m four years out?"—spoiler: Yes, and you should!Whether you’re a vet student, a recent graduate, or a few years into practice, this episode is full of insights on growth, mentorship, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in the veterinary profession.Episode Outlin

This week on the  "So You're a Vet, Now What?" podcast host Dr. Moriah McCauley takes you on a nostalgic journey back to her final year of vet school with her classmate and close friend, Dr. Dani Poll. Together, they revisit their "Scrubbed In" miniseries recorded during their final year at the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on their journey through vet school, filled with personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a glimpse into the highs and lows of veterinary education. Whether you're a vet student, a recent graduate, or a mentor, we hope these stories provide inspiration and insight into the rewarding world of veterinary medicine.Episode Outline[00:00:27] Mentorship in veterinary practices.[00:06:14] Exam experiences and student life.[00:10:00] Community support during challenges.[00:14:10] Transitioning from vet school.[00:15:34] Job searching and mentorship.[00:19:05] Don't care what others think.[00:22:32] Community Impact on Personal Growth.[00:26:1

In this episode of "So You're a Vet. Now What?" host Dr. Moriah McCauley reflects on her personal growth and the evolution of mentorship in the veterinary profession. As we welcome the new year, Dr. Moriah outlines exciting plans for 2025, focusing on the invaluable mentorship models developed by carefully selected guests. Listeners will gain insights into the personal stories of veterinarians—both early-career and seasoned professionals—as they share the highs and lows of their journeys. This season promises to break down barriers around mentorship, offering guidance and encouragement to final-year vet students, recent graduates, and current mentors alike. Tune in for transformative stories and practical advice that illuminate the path of mentorship in veterinary medicine.Episode Outline[00:00:42] Mentorship in veterinary practice.[00:05:41] Life after vet school.[00:08:22] Pathways in veterinary medicine.[00:11:34] Mentorship opportunities in veterinary practice.[00:15:16] Social media misinformation concer

Welcome back to a new season of the  "So You're a Vet, Now What?" podcast. This week, host Dr. Moriah McCauley takes you on a nostalgic journey back to her final year of vet school with her classmate and close friend, Dr. Dani Poll. Together, they revisit their "Scrubbed In" miniseries recorded during their final year at the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on their journey through vet school, filled with personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a glimpse into the highs and lows of veterinary education. Whether you're a vet student, a recent graduate, or a mentor, we hope these stories provide inspiration and insight into the rewarding world of veterinary medicine.Episode Outline[00:00:37] - Mentorship Models and Guest Insights[00:01:20] - Guidance for Vet Students and Mentors[00:03:09] - Entering Clinical Rotations[00:05:22] - Transition from Lectures to Clinical Practice[00:06:43] - Early Inspirations and Farm Life[00:10:35] - Overcoming Adversity and Fin

On this episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?" host Dr. Moriah McCauley delves into the importance of empathy and nonverbal communication in veterinary and medical professions. Building on last week's discussion, Dr. Moriah explores whether these essential skills can be taught to professionals at any stage in their careers. Drawing from research, she introduces a 2014 study that breaks down the concept of empathy into an acronym, serving as a practical teaching tool for enhancing nonverbal communication. Tune in to discover how subtle differences in clinician posture can significantly impact patient perceptions and learn actionable insights for fostering empathy in practice.Episode Outline[00:01:20] Teaching empathy through nonverbal communication.[00:05:16] Teaching nonverbal communication in veterinary care.[00:08:18] Facial expressions in communication.[00:12:55] Nonverbal communication in empathy.[00:16:40] Tone of voice in communication.[00:19:40] Hearing the whole patient.[00:23:19] Nonverbal communica

In this episode of "So You're a Vet... Now What?" host Dr. Moriah McCauley welcomes back Dr. Josh Rosen for a continuation of their discussion on clinical empathy. After debunking common myths in the previous episode, they now shift focus to the pet parent's perspective. The conversation delves into the roadmap pet parents navigate during their time at the hospital and explores practical ways to implement clinical empathy in daily veterinary practice. Whether you're a final year vet student or a recent graduate, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your approach to patient care. Tune in to learn how to elevate your empathetic interactions in your next appointments.Dr. Joshua Rosen is an experienced veterinarian and influential voice on social media whose passion lies in sharing the value of clinical empathy in veterinary medicine. Through his content, Dr.Joshua shares not only why clinical empathy is valuable to both veterinarian and pet parent, but how veterinary teams can implement clinical empa

In this episode of "So You're a Vet... Now What?" host Dr. Moriah McCauley welcomes back Dr. Joshua Rosen, an experienced veterinarian and advocate for clinical empathy in veterinary medicine. Together, they explore three prevalent myths surrounding clinical empathy and discuss the challenges veterinarians face in implementing it within their daily practice. Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned vet, this episode offers valuable insights and tips to enhance your clinical approach. Join them for an engaging conversation that aims to inspire and improve the way veterinary teams connect with pet parents.Dr. Joshua Rosen is an experienced veterinarian and influential voice on social media whose passion lies in sharing the value of clinical empathy in veterinary medicine. Through his content, Dr. Joshua shares not only why clinical empathy is valuable to both veterinarian and pet parent, but how veterinary teams can implement clinical empathy in their daily practice. Episode Outline[00:01:11] Myths o