It’s Thanksgiving in the United States this week, and that means the holiday season has begun. Besides family, food, and fun, the holidays can also bring stress, anxiety, and dread. This week, we’re joined by Liz Hughston, MEd, RVT, LVT, CVT, VTS (SAIM, ECC) to discuss tips and tactics to help you survive the holidays with a smile.

Host Dr. Ernie Ward is missing co-host Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, as she is recovering from an accident. Beckie is doing well, and we’ll share the full story soon. Meanwhile, drop her a “Get Well Soon” message on our socials or email at [email protected].

Liz and Ernie begin by tackling the problematic origins of Thanksgiving in the United States and offer how they’re reconciling the holiday with history. The pair then discuss their different gratitude practices and why gratitude is good for your mental well-being.

Liz shares how some veterinary practices incorporate gratitude into their daily huddles. Dr. Ward explains why he believes we must be more openly positive in our business and personal lives. Both reveal how they deal with criticism over being too optimistic (or pushing for change) and why everyone needs to, in Dr. Ward’s words, “start each day tilted toward optimism.”

Viewfinders, this podcast has loads of practical tips and real-life stories. We recommend you listen to it before your Thanksgiving visits or immediately afterward to decompress. Regardless of when you listen, we hope you’ll find something to make your holidays a little brighter!

Beckie, get well soon! We miss you!