The Joyful DVM Podcast: Empowering Veterinary Professionals

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the significant issue of external validation within the veterinary field and provides strategies for overcoming this challenge.

External validation is defined as the need for outside affirmation to confirm one's worth or correctness in actions. The academic environment perpetuates the belief that grades are synonymous with self-worth. Many students enter veterinary programs already grappling with insecurities, and the pressure to excel can create a cycle of anxiety, where temporary relief is experienced upon receiving good grades. 

Dr. Wise stresses that veterinary professionals do not have control over patient outcomes or client behaviors. The emotional states of clients influence their actions, and veterinary professionals cannot dictate how clients feel or respond. 

The dependence on patient outcomes and client interactions as indicators of success can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction within the profession. Dr. Wise encourages veterinary professionals to understand that their self-worth is not dependent on external factors. 

Dr. Wise advocates for a transformative shift in mindset, urging veterinary professionals to concentrate on their responsibilities and efforts rather than seeking external validation. She underscores the importance of recognizing that mistakes and adverse outcomes are inherent to the practice of veterinary medicine. Embracing this fundamental truth can reduce pressure and cultivate a healthier relationship with their work. 

Dr. Wise concludes by reminding her audience that perfection is an unattainable goal in veterinary medicine (and life); and that accepting the human experience, including errors, is crucial for both personal and professional development.

Key takeaways include: 

1. The education system promotes reliance on external validation, causing anxiety and self-doubt in students.
2. Veterinary professionals measure success through patient outcomes and client satisfaction.
3. Many veterinarians internalize negative outcomes, feeling responsible for patients who do not improve or challenging client interactions.
4. Dr. Wise emphasizes focusing on true responsibilities like exams, histories, recommendations, and treatment plans.
5. Dr. Wise promotes a shift from perfectionism to accepting human imperfection in veterinary practice.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the critical role that veterinary technicians play in the veterinary field. She encourages listeners to express appreciation for the contributions of veterinary technicians, underscoring that their involvement is essential for creating a sustainable career environment in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Wise urges veterinary technicians to recognize that while they share common challenges, their individual responses to these circumstances are crucial. Many technicians fall into a cycle of negativity, which can detract from patient care and client service. Veterinary technicians possess the power to influence their work environment positively. She encourages them to take ownership of their attitudes and interactions, regardless of their feelings of being underappreciated.

The podcast highlights the importance of maintaining a positive attitude, even amidst the chaotic circumstances that are inherent in veterinary medicine. She asserts that technicians can choose their responses and moods, which can significantly influence their colleagues and the overall workplace atmosphere. A positive demeanor can create a ripple effect, encouraging others to adopt a similar outlook, thereby fostering a more supportive and collaborative environment.

Key takeaways include: 

1. Technicians often feel undervalued and face challenges like client dissatisfaction and workplace negativity.
2. A positive mindset in response to workplace circumstances will benefit all veterinary professionals
3. Technicians should engage in constructive discussions about their needs, such as pay and scheduling.
4. A positive attitude among technicians can enhance the entire veterinary team's culture.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the essential role of support staff in veterinary medicine and emphasizes the significance of veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers, and kennel helpers, asserting that the sustainability and success of veterinary practices heavily rely on these team members.

She advocates for a team approach in veterinary practices, where credentialed veterinary technicians can assume more responsibilities. This delegation not only alleviates the workload for veterinarians but also enriches the work experience for support staff, reducing burnout and increasing job satisfaction across the board.

Key takeaways include: 

1. Emphasizes the importance of support staff, including technicians and managers, for sustainable veterinary practices.
2. Highlights the underutilization of credentialed technicians and the need for better delegation of tasks.
3. Advocates for updating veterinary practice acts to align with the skills of credentialed staff.
4. Suggests effective team utilization can improve workflow and client experiences in veterinary practices.
5. Calls for a shift from a veterinarian-centered approach to a collaborative team environment.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of reincarnation in relation to pets, a subject that may be difficult for those who adhere strictly to scientific reasoning. While she values the scientific method, she recognizes that some of life's most beautiful experiences lie beyond the realm of rational understanding. This insight has led her to embrace experiences that are not easily categorized or explained.

She underscores the inherent uncertainty in the practice of medicine. While veterinarians can provide diagnoses and treatments, they cannot guarantee outcomes. This uncertainty also applies to the concepts of reincarnation and the continuity of energy after death. She encourages her audience to consider the possibility of reincarnation, particularly in light of their own experiences with pets.

She challenges the traditional view of life as a linear progression from birth to death. She posits that energy is neither created nor destroyed but merely changes forms. This perspective opens the possibility of reincarnation for both humans and animals. She encourages her listeners to remain open to the idea that they may encounter animals that evoke memories of those they have lost, suggesting that these experiences could be more than mere coincidence.

Key takeaways include: 

1. The episode discusses reincarnation in pets, appealing to those open to non-scientific views.
2. Dr. Wise encourages open-mindedness towards experiences that challenge scientific reasoning, suggesting energy transformation.
3. The podcast advocates for balancing scientific knowledge with intuitive understanding in veterinary practice and life.
4. Dr. Wise urges listeners to trust their instincts and beliefs despite potential external judgment.
5. The episode concludes by encouraging recognition of life's rich experiences beyond conventional understanding and sharing personal stories.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the critical topic of organizational culture within veterinary medicine, particularly in veterinary hospitals, which frequently lack a supportive environment conducive to career growth. Fundamental elements of a healthy organizational culture include the establishment of clear policies and procedures, utilizing employee manuals, and conducting regular evaluations and feedback. 

The podcast emphasizes that individuals can effect positive change in culture by managing their emotional responses and reframing their perspectives on workplace challenges. Rather than perceiving themselves as victims of a negative culture, employees can choose to concentrate on their own actions and contributions.

The discussion also brings attention to the necessity of addressing workplace bullying and ensuring that there are clear policies for reporting such behavior. A well-managed organization should not exhibit cliques or divisions among staff, as these often indicate underlying issues with communication and expectations.

Key takeaways: 

1. The episode discusses the significance of organizational culture in veterinary medicine and leadership's role in shaping it.
2. Effective leadership is essential for establishing a positive culture through clear policies and procedures.
3. An employee handbook is necessary to clarify expectations, behaviors, and feedback processes.
4. Employees should not accept environments that conflict with their morals, ethics, or values.
5. Open communication with leadership about culture and policies is encouraged for improvement.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the unpredictability of veterinary practice, the impact of human errors, and the unrealistic pursuit of perfection. It emphasizes the importance of accepting human fallibility, understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process, and fostering self-compassion. 

The principle of "first do no harm" is explored, highlighting the intention behind actions rather than the outcomes. The podcast also stresses the significance of building trust within oneself to establish strong relationships with clients. 

Veterinary professionals are reminded of their qualifications and encouraged to focus on the positive impacts they make, letting go of guilt and shame associated with past mistakes. The overarching message is to embrace veterinary medicine as a journey of growth, where doing one's best in each moment is what truly matters.

Key takeaways:

1. Challenges in Veterinary Practice: Veterinary professionals face unpredictability and emotional struggles, often dealing with outcomes that do not meet expectations and human errors that lead to guilt and shame.
2. Acceptance of Human Fallibility: The podcast emphasizes that veterinary medicine is a practice where mistakes are inevitable. It encourages acceptance of human fallibility and making decisions with the best available information and intentions at the time.
3. Critique of Perfectionism: Perfectionism is seen as detrimental to self-trust and team dynamics. The relentless pursuit of perfection can create a toxic work environment and hinder professional growth.
4. Principle of "First Do No Harm": This principle is about the intention to help rather than guaranteeing the absence of discomfort or suffering. Self-judgment based on future evaluations of past decisions can lead to guilt and shame.
5. Building Trusting Relationships: Trust within oneself is foundational to building trusting relationships with clients. Approaching client interactions with self-doubt and shame can hinder rapport, while focusing on the best interests of the patient and client can mitigate adverse outcomes.
6. Qualifications and Decision-Making: Veterinary professionals are reminded of their qualifications and the importance of making informed decisions based on available resources,

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise addresses the common scenario where acquaintances ask veterinary professionals for pet advice outside of a clinical setting, often leading to feelings of annoyance and frustration.

She emphasizes the importance of setting and maintaining boundaries, and explains that these requests often stem from trust and concern for pets, reflecting a level of comfort with the veterinary professional that may not exist with their regular providers. 

She encourages veterinary professionals to reconsider their initial reactions and understand the relational dynamics at play. She also discusses the broader implications of client interactions, noting that many veterinary professionals feel overwhelmed by client behavior, which can lead to burnout and stress.

She critiques the tendency to link personal wellbeing to client behavior and advocates for veterinary professionals to take ownership of their wellbeing. She highlights the importance of effective communication in veterinary practice, suggesting that many negative client experiences result from clients feeling unheard or judged. By engaging in high-value conversations and approaching interactions with compassion, veterinary professionals can build trust and improve client relationships.

Key takeaways:

1. Setting Boundaries: Veterinary professionals often face inquiries about pets from friends, family, or acquaintances outside of work. Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the importance of setting and maintaining clear boundaries to avoid compromising their personal time and well being.
2. Understanding Motivations: People who seek veterinary advice outside of a professional context often do so out of trust and concern for their pets. This trust may stem from discomfort or negative experiences with their regular veterinary providers.
3. Emotional Drivers: Every action, including seeking advice, is driven by emotion. Recognizing this can help veterinary professionals understand the relational dynamics at play and respond with empathy rather than annoyance.
4. Communication is Key: Ineffective communication can lead to negative client experiences. Engaging in "high-value conversations" that address concerns and clarify misunderstandings can build trust and improve relationships.
5. Personal Responsib

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of living in alignment, which she elaborates on in her bestselling book "Radical Freedom." 

Living in alignment involves making choices free from fear and societal expectations and is essential for personal fulfillment. She outlines three pillars of alignment: the physical mind, personal essence, and universal connection. She explains that many people, especially in the veterinary field, rely heavily on logic, which can limit their potential. 

She encourages listeners to explore their personal essence and recognize the interconnectedness of all beings. Despite the challenges, she urges veterinary professionals to trust their intuition to improve both their professional and personal lives. 

Key takeaways:

1. Theme of the Podcast:
2. The podcast focuses on the concept of living in alignment to achieve radical freedom.
3. This theme is also explored in Dr. Wise's co-authored book "Radical Freedom," which is internationally acclaimed.
4. Living in Alignment:
5. Defined as a personal journey toward freedom, characterized by making choices without fear and exploring diverse ideas.
6. Emphasizes the importance of aligning with one's true self for fulfillment, which requires intention and effort.
7. Societal Influence:
8. Individuals are born without societal expectations but absorb them over time from parents, teachers, and peers.
9. These societal rules can create rigid definitions of a fulfilling life, which may not align with personal fulfillment.
10. Three Pillars of Alignment:
11. Physical Mind: Involves logical thinking and data reliance, which can restrict experiences and potential.
12. Personal Essence: Represents the soul or spirit, crucial for understanding one's true self and potential.
13. Universal Connection: Emphasizes interconnectedness and the significance of perceived coincidences as manifestations of this connection.
14. Challenges for Veterinary Professionals:
15. Veterinary professionals may struggle to trust their intuition due to their scientific training.
16. Dr. Wise encourages embracing intuitive abilities to enhance both professional practice and personal life.

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

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In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses burnout among veterinary professionals, highlighting three key indicators: consistently arriving early and staying late, skipping lunch breaks, and disengagement from life outside of work. 

She explains that these behaviors stem from misconceptions about productivity and self-care, and they can lead to inefficiency and neglect of personal wellbeing. Dr. Wise advises professionals to critically evaluate their work habits, communicate openly with leadership about scheduling, and prioritize self-care and personal interests. 

She emphasizes that these patterns can be unlearned and encourages seeking support, such as through the Vet Life Academy program, to achieve a balanced and fulfilling life.

Key takeaways:

1. Indicators of Burnout:
   1. Arriving Early and Leaving Late: This behavior can lead to inefficiency and is often unsustainable. It may indicate a need to evaluate work habits and communicate with leadership about scheduling and staffing issues.
   2. Skipping Lunch Breaks: Forgoing breaks to catch up on work can perpetuate neglect of self-care. Taking even short breaks can significantly improve energy and focus.
   3. Disengagement from Life Outside Work: Sacrificing hobbies, friendships, and self-care can lead to burnout. Re-engaging with personal interests and relationships is crucial for a fulfilling life.
2. Actionable Strategies:
   1. Evaluate Work Habits: Consider if the extra hours are necessary or if there are underlying issues that need addressing.
   2. Take Breaks: Ensure to take lunch breaks and short breaks to recharge.
   3. Re-engage with Personal Life: Prioritize self-care and personal interests to maintain a balanced life.
3. Support and Resources:
   1. Vet Life Academy Program: This program can help veterinary professionals regain control over their work-life balance.
   2. Mindset and Support: Change is possible with the right mindset and support, leading to a fulfilling life even in a demanding profession.

Resources: 

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You! 

https://joyfuld

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

Instagram: ...

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise shares twelve tips to inspire and empower listeners in their careers and personal lives. 

Key points include focusing on effort over perfection, understanding that patient outcomes and client decisions are beyond a veterinarian's control, and the importance of aligning work with personal values. She advises against overworking, excessive venting, and relying on historical statistics for future predictions. 

Dr. Wise also emphasizes concise documentation, viewing job loss as growth, normalizing anxiety, finding joy despite financial burdens, and controlling perspectives to improve wellbeing. She concludes by encouraging listeners to share the podcast and join the Vet Life Academy for further support.

Key takeaways:

1. Effort Over Perfection: Focus on effort rather than perfection in veterinary practice, accepting that not all outcomes will meet expectations.
2. Patient Outcomes: Understand that patient outcomes are largely beyond the veterinarian's control due to individual patient physiology.
3. Client Decisions: Recognize that veterinarians cannot control client decisions regarding treatment recommendations and that these decisions do not reflect on the veterinarian's worth.
4. Aligning with Values: Leave jobs that conflict with personal morals, ethics, or values to maintain mental health and job satisfaction.
5. Work-Life Balance: Avoid staying late or arriving early to finish tasks, and prioritize a healthy work-life balance.
6. Limit Negative Conversations: Excessive venting and commiseration can harm emotional wellbeing; limit time spent on negative discussions.
7. Historical Statistics: Historical statistics on mental health risks do not dictate individual futures; focus on personal choices and potential.
8. Documentation: Extensive medical records do not necessarily prevent board complaints; prioritize concise documentation and trust professional judgment.
9. Job Loss: Being fired is not a source of shame but an opportunity for growth and reflection.
10. Anxiety: Feelings of anxiety related to cases or client interactions are normal; recognizing this can help alleviate pressure.
11. Financial Contentment: Paying off student loans does not guarantee happiness;

Resources:

⭐Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You!

https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide

⭐Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience

https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub

⭐Listen to The Joyful DVM Podcast: Be Inspired by Empowering Perspectives on Navigating Life as A Veterinary Professional

https://joyfuldvm.com/podcast

⭐Join VET LIFE ACADEMY: Transform Your Veterinary Life & Career from the inside out

https://joyfuldvm.com/vetlifeacademy

⭐Learn How to Support Your Organization and Enhance Employee Wellbeing

https://joyfuldvm.com/organizations

Follow me:

Website: https://joyfuldvm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/

Instagram: ...