Episode Description

Welcome to the Veterinary Leadership Success Podcast, where Dr. Dave Nicol, a veterinarian and leadership expert, takes you on a journey of insights and practical tips in veterinary team leadership. In this dynamic and engaging episode titled "Lessons from the Triathlon: Part 1," Dr. Dave shares a captivating narrative based on his personal experience competing in a triathlon and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way.

Throughout this episode, Dr. Dave candidly discusses seven pivotal lessons extracted from his season as a triathlete. From the importance of taking the first step despite uncertainties to the value of persistent practice leading to progress, he effortlessly draws parallels between athletic endeavors and the challenges faced by veterinary leaders in managing their teams.

Sharing anecdotes from his journey, Dr. Dave delves into the significance of identifying weaknesses, setting clear goals, and fostering a supportive community of training buddies. He also explores the vital role of acknowledging achievements and the power of patience and persistence in achieving long-term objectives, both in sports and veterinary leadership.

Listeners are treated to a wealth of wisdom that transcends the world of triathlon, resonating deeply with the demands and intricacies of veterinary leadership. Dr. Dave's storytelling and practical examples create a bridge between athletic experiences and the professional landscape, offering a unique perspective on how personal growth and skill development in sports correlate with effective leadership practices in the veterinary field.

As the episode unfolds, Dr. Dave seamlessly weaves together motivational anecdotes with insightful guidance, providing a comprehensive roadmap for aspiring leaders in veterinary practice. He invites listeners to reflect on their own experiences, urging them to share their lessons from sports and how these translate into their roles as veterinary practice leaders.

This episode not only enlightens but also inspires veterinary professionals to adopt a proactive approach, encouraging them to embrace challenges, set ambitious goals, foster a supportive team environment, and persistently work towards long-term success. Tune in to this invigorating episode and discover how the triumphs and setbacks of a triathlete resonate with the world of veterinary leadership.

Episode Outline 

• [00:00] Episode Intro
• [01:22] Lesson 1: You Don't Know Until You Try
• [03:52] Lesson 2: Practice Makes Progress 
• [05:51] Lesson 3: Know Your Weaknesses
• [07:21] Lesson 4: Goal Setting is Crucial
• [09:01] Lesson 5: Training Buddies Matter
• [10:49] Lesson 6: Celebrate Accomplishments
• [12:26] Lesson 7: Be Patient & Persistent 
• [14:26] episode wrap up
• [16:17] The end 

Quotes 

• "You don't know what you don't know until you try. And also the truth is, if you don't try, you will never accomplish that thing. So you might as well have a go."

• "Practice makes progress. And the wonderful thing about endurance sports is that you're building an engine."

• "If you suck at something, you've got to do something about that... you've got to be honest with yourself, it's there and then you can make a plan to address that one way or the other."

• "Goal setting is incredibly important... that goal has been really important in motivating me, particularly through winter and the long, effectively training all year round."

• "Rome wasn't built in a day. Fitness is not gained to the level you require in six months or a year. We are playing the long game here."

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