Out of Practice

Addie and Ginger dive into the concept of influence—breaking down why so many professionals hesitate to share their opinions and the critical role trust plays before delivering feedback or driving change.

We discuss:
The core components of influence: willingness, ability, desire, and effectiveness
How imposter syndrome, hierarchy, and fear of being labeled "bossy" hold professionals back
The difference between forceful persuasion and data-driven, empathetic advocacy
Practical strategies for early-career and clinic team members to influence workplace culture and advocate for meaningful change

Exploring the realities of volunteerism, fundraising, and what it truly looks like to give back without burning out. Addie and Ginger share personal stories—from youth literacy tutoring and music to homelessness advocacy and community boards—alongside practical insights on aligning your service with your core values and energy levels.

We discuss:
How stepping outside the clinic and volunteering can help navigate professional burnout
Aligning your core values with the right volunteer mechanism (tutoring, board service, grassroots outreach)
Practical strategies for setting firm boundaries, managing mental bandwidth, and avoiding over commitment

In this episode, Ginger and Addie explore the concept of vices, how they serve as coping mechanisms, and the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in managing them. They share personal stories and practical insights on navigating discomfort without relying on substances or habits that numb feelings.

We discuss:
Vices as coping mechanisms
Mindfulness and self-awareness
Managing discomfort without substances
Personal stories of changing habits

Join us for an engaging conversation with Dr. Aaron Massecar, a philosopher and veterinary industry expert, as we explore the ethical, philosophical, and practical implications of AI in veterinary medicine and beyond.

We discuss:

• Philosophical perspectives on AI and humanity
• Navigating Human Connection and AI
• AI Use in Veterinary Medicine
• Risks of AI use

Resources

Aaron Massecar's Substack - https://aaronmassecar.substack.com/

Exploring the nature of boredom, its cultural implications, and how embracing it can foster creativity and self-awareness. Addie and Ginger share personal insights and practical tips for managing boredom healthily.

We discuss:
The role of boredom in creativity and problem-solving
Cultural and societal influences on boredom and consumption
Practical strategies for managing boredom and emotional discomfort

In this episode of Out of Practice, Ginger continues her conversation with school psychologist and researcher Dr. Daniel Krenzer, digging deeper into the realities of navigating neurodivergence in the veterinary clinic.

When a team member shares a suspected or formal diagnosis, it can leave managers unsure of how to respond. We explore how minor operational tweaks, rather than massive overhauls, can unlock massive changes in team morale and performance.

We discuss:
- Moving beyond the scope of a manager to focus on process and dialogue
- The "both/and" approach: Balancing individual treatment with organizational support
- Practical, low-cost accommodations—from sensory adjustments to linear checklists

In this episode of Out of Practice, we shift our focus to neurodivergence in veterinary medicine, specifically exploring how ADHD presents in the workplace and the lecture hall.

From the subtle ways executive dysfunction masks itself as "laziness" to the unique challenges faced by high-achieving women in the profession, navigating a neurotypical career path with a neuroatypical brain is a hidden mental load for many.

We discuss:

How ADHD presentation differs significantly between genders

The direct intersection between unmanaged ADHD and veterinary burnout

Practical workplace strategies, including the power of sincere peer acknowledgment

This episode begins a two-part conversation with school psychologist and researcher Dr. Daniel Krenzer, opening the door to how we can build more supportive, inclusive veterinary team cultures.

In this episode of Out of Practice, we explore the realities of taking time away in veterinary medicine.

From unfinished work to the quiet anxiety of what might be waiting when we return, stepping away from work is rarely as simple as booking a trip.

We discuss:
The guilt that can accompany time off
Productivity culture and constant availability
The mental load of ownership and leadership
Why modeling healthy time off matters for teams

This episode builds on our recent conversation about downtime and expands the lens to longer breaks from work.

In this episode of Out of Practice, we explore the concept of downtime in veterinary medicine and why slowing down can feel surprisingly uncomfortable.

From packed schedules and emotional intensity to the identity many of us build around being needed, veterinary culture often rewards constant motion. But what happens when there is a pause? When the shift ends? When the to-do list is complete?

In this episode, we discuss:

• Our experiences with downtime
• High-achiever discomfort with stillness
• How learning to tolerate downtime supports long-term sustainability

This conversation invites reflection on how we relate to time, productivity, and worth in a demanding profession.

Because sometimes the hardest thing to do is nothing at all.

In Part 2 of our series, we demystify the actual process of seeking therapy for ongoing workplace stress and trauma. Recognizing the need for help is a crucial first step—but knowing what to expect can make taking action much easier.

We pull back the curtain on the therapeutic process, breaking down common modalities and providing a practical roadmap to help you find the right provider without the overwhelm.

We discuss:

What frameworks like CBT (for thought patterns) and EMDR (for processing trauma) actually look like in practice.

Step-by-step guidance on how to look for a therapist.

Disclaimer: The content of this episode is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or mental health treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified health provider with any questions regarding a mental health condition.