In Episode 220 of the Joyful DVM podcast, Dr. Cari Wise addresses a universal yet often emotionally charged topic in the veterinary profession: leaving a job. She explores why it's perfectly okay to move on; and how to do it with integrity, clarity, and grace. Whether you're running toward a new opportunity or running away from a challenging environment, this episode provides practical wisdom and encouragement for navigating professional transitions without burning bridges.

Key Takeaways:

1. You Don’t Need Permission to Leave: Your desire to move on is valid, even if others don’t understand it. The most important thing is that you like your reason for leaving.
2. Clarity is Power: Understanding why you want to leave — whether you’re running from discomfort or running toward opportunity — is crucial. The latter tends to lead to more fulfilling results.
3. Avoid the "Same Situation, Different Clinic" Trap: If you're only trying to escape a bad experience without fully understanding the root cause, you may end up recreating that experience in your next role.
4. Small Profession, Big Connections: The veterinary world is tightly knit. Leaving with grace preserves relationships that might benefit you in the future.
5. Preserve Your Peace: Departing from a job should be an act of empowerment, not destruction. You owe it to yourself to walk away in a way that maintains your integrity and peace of mind.

Resources & Links:

1. Website: www.joyfuldvm.com
2. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/
3. Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvm
4. Facebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/

✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend in the veterinary profession!

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode of The Joyful DVM Podcast, Dr. Cari Wise explores the connection between stress, anxiety, and compassion in veterinary medicine. She discusses how the emotional highs and lows of the profession are natural and not indicators of personal failure. 

Key Takeaways

1. Stress & Anxiety Reflect Compassion – The extent to which we experience stress is directly related to how much we care. It is not a sign of failure but a natural part of being in a compassionate profession.
2. Client Interactions & Emotions – Clients who appear aggressive or frustrated often act out of fear and concern for their pets. Recognizing this can help veterinarians maintain perspective and respond with understanding.
3. You Cannot Control Client Choices – A veterinarian's job is to provide medical recommendations, but clients ultimately decide on the course of action. Their choices do not reflect the veterinarian’s worth or ability.
4. Comparison Leads to Self-Doubt – Assuming colleagues have it "all together" based on appearances can lead to unnecessary self-judgment. Everyone experiences stress differently.
5. Veterinary Medicine is Full of Uncertainty – Outcomes are never guaranteed, and there will always be unknowns in veterinary practice. Accepting this helps reduce pressure and unrealistic expectations.
6. Money and Veterinary Care – Charging for veterinary services is necessary and ethical. The cost of care does not diminish the value of the veterinarian or the services they provide.
7. Letting Go of the Need to "Fix" Emotions – Experiencing stress and anxiety does not mean something is wrong with you. The goal isn’t to eliminate these emotions but to acknowledge and move through them without self-judgment.

Resources & Links:

1. Website: www.joyfuldvm.com
2. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/
3. Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvm
4. Facebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/

✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow veterinary professional who might need to hear it!

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

What happens when a client declines your veterinary recommendations? For many of us, their “no” sparks frustration, judgment, and even resentment. But what if that "no" isn’t actually a problem? In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise explores the deeper meaning behind client decisions, why we take them personally, and how shifting our mindset can reduce stress, build trust, and create a more positive veterinary experience.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

1️⃣ Why Client “No’s” Feel So Personal – Understand how external validation impacts your emotional response to client decisions.

2️⃣ The Role of Judgment in Veterinary Interactions – Learn how unconscious judgment—toward clients and yourself—creates unnecessary stress.

3️⃣ How to Communicate Without Pressure or Manipulation – Discover how small language changes can build trust and encourage client collaboration.

4️⃣ The True Role of a Veterinarian in the Care Cycle – Gain clarity on what is (and isn’t) your responsibility when offering medical recommendations.

5️⃣ How Letting Go of Control Reduces Burnout – Find out how detaching from client choices leads to a more sustainable and fulfilling veterinary career.

Key Takeaways:

✅ A client’s “no” is neutral—it’s only a problem if we attach judgment to it.

✅ Veterinary professionals often rely on external validation, making client decisions feel more personal than they actually are.

✅ The best way to advocate for pets is to present all options neutrally, allowing owners to make informed choices without pressure.

✅ Changing the way we communicate—avoiding phrases like “have to,” “need to,” and “should”—improves client trust and decision-making.

✅ When we stop taking responsibility for client decisions, we free ourselves from unnecessary guilt, frustration, and burnout.

Resources & Links:

1. Website: www.joyfuldvm.com
2. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/
3. Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvm
4. Facebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/

✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow veterinary professional who might need to hear it!

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

Have you ever had a client tell you, "You're only in it for the money"? If so, you’re not alone. This common statement can feel frustrating, unfair, and even personal. But why does it trigger such a strong reaction?

In this episode of The Joyful DVM Podcast, Dr. Cari Wise breaks down the real reason behind this emotional response. She explores the money stories we carry, how they impact our views on pricing and client decisions, and why we must shift our mindset to find peace in veterinary medicine.

If money conversations in vet med leave you feeling uncomfortable, guilty, or even resentful, this episode is for you!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ Why the phrase "You're only in it for the money" feels so personal

✅ How our money stories (often shaped by family and past generations) influence the way we approach pricing in vet med

✅ The two major links people have with money: safety & self-worth—and why they matter

✅ Why client decisions are not a reflection of your value or success

✅ How to stop tying pricing to guilt, resentment, or failure

Key Takeaways:

1️⃣ Money is neutral. The emotions we attach to it come from our beliefs, not the numbers themselves.

2️⃣ Veterinary pricing is neutral. Clients' reactions to cost come from their own money stories, not because prices are “right” or “wrong.”

3️⃣ Your job is to recommend, not convince. Clients get to make the decision—it’s not a reflection of your skills or success.

4️⃣ Resentment builds when we believe money is the barrier to good veterinary care. But in reality, our role remains the same no matter what clients choose.

5️⃣ Shifting your mindset leads to more joy and peace in practice. Let go of what you can’t control and focus on what you can—providing quality veterinary care.

Resources & Links:CONNECT WITH ME

1. Website: www.joyfuldvm.com
2. Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/18257625/
3. Instagram: www.instagram.com/joyfuldvm
4. Facebook: www.facebook.com/JoyfulDVM/

✨ If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow veterinary professional who might need to hear it!

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise poses the thought-provoking question, "Who are you mad at?" This inquiry serves as a catalyst for listeners to introspect on their feelings of frustration and anger, emotions that many may not consciously recognize they are harboring. Dr. Wise encourages her audience to reflect on whether they frequently experience irritation at work or find themselves rehashing negative interactions at home, especially concerning clients or coworkers.

Dr. Wise underscores the significance of identifying the root causes of anger and frustration, as these emotions can lead to a relinquishing of personal power. For example, if a veterinary professional feels anger towards a client due to inappropriate behavior during an appointment, carrying that anger throughout the day can diminish their effectiveness in their role. Since individuals cannot control the actions of others, holding onto anger becomes counterproductive. Instead, Dr. Wise advocates for focusing on personal responses to such situations, emphasizing that individuals have control over their reactions.

Dr. Wise elaborates on how anger can manifest in body language and tone, impacting interactions with clients and colleagues. She urges listeners to scrutinize their behaviors and conversations, particularly if they find themselves frequently venting about work-related issues. Such behavior often indicates unresolved anger that requires attention.

Key Takeaways:

1. Many veterinarians & veterinary technicians may not recognize their anger, which can manifest as frustration with clients, coworkers, or work conditions.
2. Anger often arises from unmet expectations and the belief that situations should differ from the reality they are experiencing.
3. The behaviors that stem from anger and frustration can create a toxic work environment, negatively affecting client and colleague interactions.
4. Accepting current realities fosters a constructive approach to problem-solving and personal empowerment.
5. Listeners are urged to reflect on their anger and shift focus from blame to personal agency and positive action.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise introduces the concept of appointment staging, which emphasizes the importance of not feeling compelled to resolve all issues during a single veterinary visit, particularly when multiple health concerns are identified.

Dr. Wise identifies several contributing factors to this pressure. One significant factor is a prevalent misconception among veterinary professionals regarding their role. Many veterinarians operate under the belief that if they identify a problem, they are obligated to address it immediately. This mindset can lead to an overwhelming workload that exceeds what can be reasonably managed in a single appointment. Another contributing factor is the perceived expectation from clients; veterinarians often assume that clients expect all issues to be resolved during the visit. This assumption can create a sense of obligation that detracts from making informed and thoughtful decisions regarding the pet's care.

The episode further explores the negative consequences of attempting to address multiple issues in one appointment. This approach can lead to information overload for clients, who may only retain a small fraction of what is discussed during the visit. Consequently, clients may feel overwhelmed and decline all recommendations, which can ultimately harm the pet's health and damage the veterinarian-client relationship.

Setting realistic expectations is also crucial. If diagnostic tests are necessary, veterinarians can inform clients that results will be available in a few days, allowing time for thoughtful consideration and planning. This approach not only alleviates pressure but also enhances the client experience by providing clarity and structure.

Key takeaways:

1. Addressing multiple concerns at once can lead to burnout and lower care quality.
2. Slowing down, prioritizing patient comfort, and effectively communicating with clients regarding follow-ups are essential.
3. Staging appointments improves case management, reduces staff stress, and enhances client experience.
4. Emphasizes that quality medicine leads to financial success
5. Effective time management and appointment staging can improve outcomes and satisfaction for clients and patients.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the profound effects of social media on mental wellbeing. The conversation centers on the importance of self-reflection regarding social media habits, encouraging listeners to evaluate the types of content that capture their attention and the emotional responses these provoke.

Social media platforms often lead users into negative emotional states. Many individuals find themselves interacting with posts that elicit feelings of anger, judgment, or frustration, rather than those that inspire or uplift. This pattern creates a cycle of defensiveness and negativity.

Dr. Wise identifies a troubling trend within many veterinary social media groups, describing them as toxic environments marked by judgmental attitudes and criticism of colleagues' medical decisions and case management. This retrospective judgment often occurs under circumstances where individuals are critiqued for choices made under pressure and with limited information. Such behavior cultivates a culture of blame and division within the veterinary community.

Key Takeways:

1. The episode addresses the negative impact of social media on wellbeing in the veterinary field.
2. Social media often fosters negative emotions like anger and frustration instead of positivity.
3. The culture of client shaming is discussed, where professionals blame clients for rejecting recommended services, worsened by undercharging.
4. Listeners are advised to unfollow or snooze negative social media accounts to improve emotional wellbeing.
5. The episode emphasizes self-awareness regarding social media's influence on personal and professional life.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise explores the critical theme of maintaining personal power during chaotic times, a subject that resonates deeply with her own life experiences and those of her fellow veterinary professionals.

Dr. Wise emphasizes that chaos is an inherent aspect of life, and individuals often mistakenly believe that their ability to thrive is dependent on the absence of chaos. She encourages her listeners to recognize their intrinsic worth and sense of safety, regardless of external circumstances. Accepting chaos as a universal experience can alleviate the pressure to resolve it before moving forward in life.

Dr. Wise argues that fighting against circumstances only serves to diminish personal power and overall wellbeing. Acceptance enables individuals to make informed decisions that can lead to positive outcomes, even in challenging situations.

Dr. Wise emphasizes that while uncomfortable emotional states are valid, individuals can choose how long they remain in those emotional states. By recognizing the narratives that contribute to feelings of defeat or hopelessness, individuals can reclaim their power and move forward. She encourages listeners to cultivate curiosity about their beliefs and to challenge the limiting narratives that hinder their potential.

Key Takeways:

1. Chaos is presented as a natural part of life that does not hinder one's ability to thrive or find happiness.
2. It is possible to maintain personal power during chaotic times and recognize one's strength amidst turmoil.
3. The narratives we create about our circumstances shape our emotional responses and future possibilities.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise wraps up a three-part series focused on the Keys of Happiness in Veterinary Medicine.

The third key to happiness, discussed in episode 212, revolves around self-empowerment. Dr. Wise underscores that individuals have the capacity to transform their lives and experiences without waiting for external validation or changes. Empowerment involves making choices that prioritize personal needs and desires, which may include changing jobs, seeking new relationships, establishing personal Boundaries, and having High Value Conversations.

Dr. Wise encourages listeners to confront the fear of rejection that often accompanies High Value Conversations. Many individuals shy away from these discussions, fearing negative responses or judgment. However, she emphasizes that the worst possible outcome is simply receiving a "no," which clarifies what is achievable. Engaging in these conversations is vital for personal empowerment and can lead to unexpected positive results.

Dr. Wise also encourages listeners to reframe their narratives regarding past choices and experiences. The past should be perceived as a series of lessons contributing to personal growth rather than a source of shame or regret. By recognizing that past struggles have fostered resilience, individuals can move forward with a sense of empowerment and purpose.

Key Takeways:

1. Empowerment includes prioritizing personal needs, setting boundaries, and engaging in challenging yet valuable conversations.
2. High Value Conversations foster clarity and opportunities, while avoidance can hinder growth.
3. Self-acceptance, self-confidence, and self-love are essential for happiness and must come from within, not external validation.
4. The past should be seen as a valuable part of one’s journey, with struggles providing lessons for growth.
5. Keys to happiness in veterinary medicine: owning emotions, rejecting victim identity, and embracing self empowerment.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the importance of shedding the victim identity, a mindset that many professionals may not consciously recognize they embody.

Veterinary medicine is inherently chaotic and unpredictable, which can lead to significant frustration when attempts to exert control over daily events fail. Professionals often find themselves overwhelmed by factors beyond their control, including client behavior, patient responses, and equipment malfunctions. This struggle for control can cultivate a victim mentality, where individuals believe their happiness is dependent on external circumstances. Dr. Wise stresses that while individuals have the power to create their own wellbeing, they cannot dictate the actions of others or the situations they encounter.

The tendency to vent frustrations among colleagues is a coping mechanism that can perpetuate a victim mentality. While sharing negative experiences may offer temporary relief, it ultimately reinforces a cycle of blame and frustration. This collective commiseration distracts from personal empowerment and the potential for positive change within the profession. Dr. Wise argues that as long as veterinary professionals attribute their happiness to external circumstances, they will remain disempowered.

Key Takeaways:

1. Many professionals adopt a victim mentality due to the chaotic work environment.
2. Frustration stems from the disparity between expectations and reality, leading to feelings of victimization.
3. External factors, such as client behavior and unexpected patient outcomes, contribute to frustration and powerlessness.
4. Believing happiness depends on external circumstances reinforces the victim mindset.
5. Venting among colleagues offers temporary relief but perpetuates negativity and disempowerment.
6. New veterinarians should avoid comparing themselves to experienced colleagues and allow time for personal growth.
7. Listeners are urged to identify external blame for unhappiness and recognize their choice in adopting a victim identity.

Music Credit: Music by Lesfm from Pixabay