What does it take to lead a statewide veterinary association? How can we create more inclusive systems in vet med? Join host Dr. Gershon Alaluf and guest host Dr. Jennifer Hawkins, President of the California Veterinary Medical Association, for a compelling episode of Irreplaceable Truths. Dr. Hawkins shares her path from shelter medicine to executive leadership, offering real-world insights on advocacy, policy, and leading with purpose.

Packed with professional wisdom, emotional insights, and authentic experiences, this episode offers valuable lessons for veterinarians, veterinary students, and animal care professionals.

What you’ll discover:

• What veterinary leadership looks like behind the scenes
• How Dr. Hawkins helped shift DEI from concept to reality
• The difference between intentions and impact
• Why leadership sometimes means doing what’s unpopular

Who will love this episode:

• Veterinarians & veterinary students
• Animal care professionals
• Veterinary educators and mentors
• Animal lovers passionate about veterinary medicine
• Veterinary leaders, organizers, and changemakers

Stay Connected:

• Like this video if you found value in this discussion!
• Drop your questions or share your veterinary stories in the comments.
• Subscribe & hit the bell icon to never miss an episode.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms.

Follow us: @Pacific.Lens.Studios

Contact: [email protected]

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome & intro to Dr. Jennifer Hawkins

02:15 - Her journey into veterinary leadership

07:32 - Navigating work-life balance and burnout

13:18 - The power of professional advocacy

19:44 - What the CVMA is doing to support vets

26:00 - Key issues facing California veterinary professionals

32:19 - Mentorship, community, and the next generation

38:05 - The importance of listening and learning from the field

44:10 - Advice for those considering leadership roles

51:50 - Final reflections and closing thoughts

Ep. 28

#veterinaryleadership #veterinarypolicy #vetmeddiversity