Endless Journeys: The Vet Tech Odyssey

In this Question of the Week episode of Endless Journeys: The Vet Tech Odyssey, hosts Jen and Michelle tackle “New Clinic, Same Anxiety”—a common challenge for relief vet techs.

They discuss navigating unfamiliar clinics, balancing confidence with humility, and the importance of communication in fast-paced environments. The episode also celebrates Veronica Torres on becoming a licensed veterinary technician and business owner, highlighting the growth and resilience of vet tech entrepreneurs.

Have a question you want featured? Submit it for an upcoming Question of the Week episode!

Our Links: 

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Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

Keywords

vet tech, entrepreneurship, relief work, confidence, humility, veterinary industry, success stories, overcoming anxiety, professional growth, communication skills

The Relief Tech Contract Playbook

Michelle and Jen discuss the essentials of contract work for relief veterinary technicians. From building a solid contract to setting clear boundaries, they share practical tips on communication, professionalism, and protecting both the technician and the clinic. This episode offers guidance and encouragement for techs considering relief work and navigating the emotional demands of the field with confidence.

Show Note Links:

https://mastermind.com/

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

Keywords

veterinary contracts, relief technician, veterinary medicine, self-care, work-life balance, client boundaries, veterinary technician advice, emotional health, professional development, veterinary industry, veterinary contracts, relief technician, contract negotiation, veterinary business, professional boundaries, compensation structure, cancellation policy, overtime pay, confidentiality clause

In this special collaborative episode, we join Athletic Conceptual Training for a candid, high-energy conversation with Ryan Johnson and Katelyn Warford. In this 30-minute video interview, Ryan and Katelyn turn the tables and interview us—diving into our podcast journey, our individual businesses, and the paths that led us to building careers outside of traditional veterinary medicine.

We talk openly about entrepreneurship, mindset, burnout, and the importance of caring for your body and your career. This episode highlights the power of collaboration across industries and how athletic performance principles, resilience, and intentional growth translate seamlessly into veterinary medicine and business ownership.

This conversation sparked even more ideas behind the scenes, and we’re excited to share that future collaborations are already in the works—including a Part 2 you won’t want to miss!

In This Episode, We Discuss:

How our podcast and individual businesses came to life

The realities of entrepreneurship in veterinary medicine

Parallels between athletic training, performance, and career longevity

Burnout, sustainability, and caring for your body as a professional

The value of cross-industry collaboration

What’s next for this partnership 

Featured Guests:

What’s Next:

In this episode, we sit down with Emily Piché, RVT, a specialist in hospice and palliative care for pets, to explore how comfort-focused medicine can benefit both patients and veterinary practices.

Emily shares how implementing palliative and hospice care programs can increase revenue, strengthen client relationships, and provide meaningful support for pets and families. We also discuss how these services help reduce compassion fatigue, improve team wellbeing, and allow veterinary professionals to practice more sustainable, values-aligned care.

This conversation reframes end-of-life care as an opportunity for growth, impact, and sustainability in veterinary medicine.

Show Note Links:

The Art of Goodbye website –

https://www.theartofgoodbye.ca/

Company email-

[email protected]

Linkedin –

https://www.linkedin.com/me?trk=p_mwlite_feed-secondary_nav

Emily’s published research about the untapped potential of RVTs in hospice care –

https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/10.1079/hai.2025.0034

AHAH Study –

https://www.aaha.org/trends-magazine/publications/the-golden-years-encouraging-veterinary-visits-for-senior-pets/

Tell My Vet Website -

https://telmyvet.com/

RVT50 code for training

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

palliative care, hospice care, veterinary revenue, comfort care programs, compassion fatigue, veterinary practice, patient support, financial benefits

In this episode, we sit down with Emily Piché, RVT, a specialist in hospice and palliative care for pets, to explore how comfort-focused medicine can benefit both patients and veterinary practices.

Emily shares how implementing palliative and hospice care programs can increase revenue, strengthen client relationships, and provide meaningful support for pets and families. We also discuss how these services help reduce compassion fatigue, improve team wellbeing, and allow veterinary professionals to practice more sustainable, values-aligned care.

This conversation reframes end-of-life care as an opportunity for growth, impact, and sustainability in veterinary medicine.

Show Note Links:

The Art of Goodbye website –

https://www.theartofgoodbye.ca/

Company email-

[email protected]

Linkedin –

https://www.linkedin.com/me?trk=p_mwlite_feed-secondary_nav

Emily’s published research about the untapped potential of RVTs in hospice care –

https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/10.1079/hai.2025.0034

AHAH Study –

https://www.aaha.org/trends-magazine/publications/the-golden-years-encouraging-veterinary-visits-for-senior-pets/

Tell My Vet Website -

https://telmyvet.com/

RVT50 code for training

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

palliative care, hospice care, veterinary revenue, comfort care programs, compassion fatigue, veterinary practice, patient support, financial benefits

In this Chill & Spill bonus episode, Michelle Crew and Jennifer Kretz discuss the realities of relief work in veterinary medicine. They explore challenges such as workplace toxicity, unfair labeling, financial pressures from relief platforms, and the emotional toll of burnout and illness. The conversation highlights the importance of clear contracts, communication, accountability, and building strong clinic relationships, while emphasizing empowerment and community support for relief technicians. Future episodes will dive deeper into contracts and best practices.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

06:52 Exploring Relief Work Experiences

09:53 Stories from Relief Workers

19:44 Challenges Faced by Relief Workers

29:28 Sickness and Its Impact on Work

32:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

43:40 Strict Protocols and Their Impact on Technicians

51:37 Navigating Personal Circumstances in the Workplace

52:11 Consequences of Incompetence: A Case Study

01:06:38 Accountability in the Veterinary Industry

01:08:54 Systematic Issues in Veterinary Relief Work

01:14:13 The Impact of Middlemen in Relief Services

01:19:27 Building Relationships in Veterinary Practices

01:23:49 The Toxic Culture in Veterinary Medicine

01:29:17 Empowering Veterinary Technicians

01:34:26 Exploring Alternative Career Paths in Vet Med

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

veterinary, relief work, personal stories, challenges, contracts, sick leave, vet tech, experiences, pregnancy, business ownership, veterinary, relief technicians, contracts, bans, fractious cats, accountability, veterinary practices, empowerment, veterinary industry, relationships

In this episode, Katelyn Warford, a registered veterinary technician and life coach, discusses her journey through burnout and her mission to help veterinary professionals rediscover their self-worth. The conversation explores the challenges of burnout, compassion fatigue, and the impact of NDAs in the veterinary field. Katelyn shares her path to business ownership and emphasizes the importance of community support and open communication in overcoming the struggles faced by veterinary technicians. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of teamwork, communication, and support in veterinary medicine. They explore the challenges posed by the sink or swim culture and emphasize the need for self-discovery and healing. The discussion highlights the unique journeys of veterinary professionals and the importance of redefining success in their careers.

Show Links:

Katelyn’s Website and social media -

https://www.facebook.com/people/Vet-Med-Life-Coach/61568166598521/?ref=pro_upsell_xav_ig_profi

le_page_web#

https://www.instagram.com/vetmedlifecoach/

https://www.tiktok.com/@vetmedlifecoach?lang=en

vetmedlifecoach.com

Katelyn’s podcast that she recommends –

https://robdial.com/podcast/

 Geoffret’s Instagram Instagram –

https://www.instagram.com/aint.doin.right?igsh=ZXUzc2IwMm1ibWtl

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

veterinary, burnout, life coaching, self-worth, empathy, compassion fatigue, business ownership, veterinary technician, mental health, community support, veterinary medicine, teamwork, communication, burnout, self-discovery, veterinary culture, support, passion, purpose, veterinary careers

In this episode, Katelyn Warford, a registered veterinary technician and life coach, discusses her journey through burnout and her mission to help veterinary professionals rediscover their self-worth. The conversation explores the challenges of burnout, compassion fatigue, and the impact of NDAs in the veterinary field. Katelyn shares her path to business ownership and emphasizes the importance of community support and open communication in overcoming the struggles faced by veterinary technicians. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of teamwork, communication, and support in veterinary medicine. They explore the challenges posed by the sink or swim culture and emphasize the need for self-discovery and healing. The discussion highlights the unique journeys of veterinary professionals and the importance of redefining success in their careers.

Show Links:

Katelyn’s Website and social media -

https://www.facebook.com/people/Vet-Med-Life-Coach/61568166598521/?ref=pro_upsell_xav_ig_profi

le_page_web#

https://www.instagram.com/vetmedlifecoach/

https://www.tiktok.com/@vetmedlifecoach?lang=en

vetmedlifecoach.com

Katelyn’s podcast that she recommends –

https://robdial.com/podcast/

 Geoffret’s Instagram Instagram –

https://www.instagram.com/aint.doin.right?igsh=ZXUzc2IwMm1ibWtl

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

veterinary, burnout, life coaching, self-worth, empathy, compassion fatigue, business ownership, veterinary technician, mental health, community support, veterinary medicine, teamwork, communication, burnout, self-discovery, veterinary culture, support, passion, purpose, veterinary careers

In this episode of the Endless Journeys podcast, hosts Michelle and Jen discuss the unique experiences of veterinary technicians, particularly during the holiday season. They reflect on the emotional challenges of working in veterinary medicine, the importance of client education, and the benefits and drawbacks of relief work. The conversation also highlights the significance of community support among veterinary professionals and the necessity of establishing clear contracts to ensure fair compensation. Additionally, they address the question of starting a veterinary business and share inspiring stories from their peers. In this conversation, Jennifer Kretz and Michelle Crew discuss their experiences as veterinary technicians, particularly focusing on the challenges and emotional toll of working during the holidays. They share insights on managing client expectations, the importance of cancellation policies, and the benefits of using apps for mileage tracking. The discussion also touches on the transition from working in corporate settings to owning their own businesses, highlighting the newfound freedom and challenges that come with it. They reflect on the joy of celebrating holidays and the importance of prioritizing health and family over work commitments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Snuggle Day Vibes

02:59 Holiday Episode: Reflections on Work and Celebrations

05:38 Work Experiences: Challenges and Triumphs

08:47 Client Education and Preventative Care in Veterinary Medicine

11:52 The Emotional Toll of Veterinary Care

14:51 The Importance of Listening to Veterinary Advice

17:49 Navigating the Challenges of Pet Ownership

20:33 The Freedom of Non-Traditional Veterinary Careers

23:05 The Stigma of Relief Work in Veterinary Medicine

26:01 Choosing Freedom Over Status in Veterinary Careers

31:10 Mindset Shifts in Veterinary Medicine

33:44 Community Connections and Celebrations

36:29 Highlighting Veterinary Technicians' Achievements

38:19 Navigating Business and Scheduling Challenges

52:09 Reflections on Holidays in Veterinary Practice

01:06:04 Navigating Holiday Work Stress

01:12:52 Corporate Culture and Holiday Work

01:18:11 Reflections on Past Work Experiences

01:22:26 Balancing Business Ownership and Personal Life

01:28:44 Client Relationships and Holiday Gratitude

01:32:39 Looking Forward to Future Holidays

Show Links:

Michelle’s candle –

https://www.gorillacandles.com/collections/no-2-spray/products/dog-paws

Jen’s Milage Tracking App –

https://mileiq.com/

Vet Tech To Go TikTok –

https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTrHdd6Pm/

Sharon’s Book-

https://www.amazon.com/I-Got-Pet-Now-What/dp/B0G3ZQDM5J

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

veterinary, podcast, veterinary technicians, relief work, client education, preventative care, emotional toll, contracts, community support, business, veterinary, holidays, business owner, work-life balance, emotional health, cancellation policy, mileage tracking, client expectations, corporate culture, personal experiences

In this engaging conversation, the hosts and their guest explore the multifaceted world of veterinary medicine, focusing on the importance of passion, financial empowerment, and personal growth. They discuss the challenges faced by veterinary technicians, the significance of continuing education, and the impact of mentorship. The dialogue emphasizes the need for delegation and automation in entrepreneurship, while also addressing the balance between personal life and business. Ultimately, the conversation serves as an inspiring reminder that challenges can lead to growth and that individuals have the power to redefine their paths and find happiness in their careers.

Show Links:

https://vettechlife.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1565420814266226/

https://successstrategies.podia.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellylynncronin/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/kellylynncronin

www.croninscastles.com

www.vettechlife.com

Teem Links: https://linktr.ee/VetTeem

https://www.hireteem.com/

https://www.nsbaadvocate.org/

Kelly’s favorite podcast - https://choosefi.com/

https://cuddlesapp.com/

https://www.getweave.com/

Our Links: 

Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577179454685

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endless.journeys.podcast/

Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@endless.journeys.p?_t=ZP-8x5uDWXHUzP&_r=1&fbclid=IwY2xjawLlMjhleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHjSSBI1M1nSTo8tGKgvtYqm0JG2dP16WxEHy7ZUA4d4Iuw__3TGxRJ9X4DMH_aem_HKCPTLtVw6SYVybIaixjSg

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kretz-659b12303/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-crew-lvt-7a9270366/

Join the Unattached Vet Tech Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/655721712955548

veterinary medicine, vet tech, entrepreneurship, financial empowerment, personal growth, challenges, continuing education, networking, delegation, mentorship