The 'So You're A Vet... Now What?' Podcast

Welcome to another insightful episode of "So You're a Vet. Now What?" This week, Dr. Mariah McCauley is joined by Dr. Addie Reinhard, founder, and CEO of MentorVet, an external mentorship program for new veterinary graduates. The discussion centers around the challenges that arise when promised mentorship doesn't meet expectations and how to address them effectively.

Starting a new job as a veterinarian can be exciting, but when the mentorship promised during the hiring process falls short, it can be disheartening. Dr. Reinhard shares valuable insights on how to handle such situations and take charge of shaping your own mentorship. Communication is key, and Dr. McCauley and Dr. Reinhard explore ways to have open discussions with mentors or practice managers to express your needs and expectations.

Recognizing that mentorship is a personalized experience, they discuss the importance of creating individualized mentorship agreements at the start of your career, setting clear goals, and being open to adapting as circumstances change. They also highlight the significance of seeking support outside of the practice, such as peer support and external mentorship programs.

Dr. Reinhard emphasizes that it's normal to encounter challenges and moments of cynicism in one's veterinary journey, but rather than giving up, she encourages new graduates to engage in candid conversations and work towards fostering positive change in their practice environments. By taking initiative and being assertive, young veterinarians can actively shape their mentorship experiences and ultimately contribute to a healthier veterinary profession.

Whether you're a recent graduate or a final-year vet student, this episode provides practical tips and strategies to overcome mentorship challenges and thrive in veterinary medicine. So tune in, take notes, and embark on your journey with confidence and purpose! If you want more support in your early career, be sure to check out MentorVet and discover the power of external mentorship in your professional growth.

Remember, success in veterinary medicine is not about avoiding challenges, but how you face them and grow from the experience. Stay tuned for the next episode of "So You're a Vet. Now What?" and don't forget to take care of yourselves along the way!

Episode Outline 

• [00:00] Episode intro 
• [01:35] Dr Mariah McCauley welcomes Dr. Reinhard 
• [02:50] What to do if you do not get the expected mentorship 
• [05:05] Structuring the mentorship dilemma 
• [07:06] Seeking external mentorship
• [09:02] Mentorship agreements 
• [11:59] Preventing the development of cynicism in mentorship 
• [14:35] Episode wrap up
• [16:11] The end 

Show Links 

• https://www.drdavenicol.com/product-page/the-yellow-pages-are-dead-digital-marketing-for-vets 

Connect with Dr. Addie Reinhard

• Website
• LinkedIn

Navigating the process of referring patients to the emergency room can be overwhelming, especially for new veterinarians. However, with proper planning, effective communication, and collaboration, the referral process can be more manageable and successful. 

Welcome to another episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?" This podcast is your trusted companion on the pathway to success in veterinary medicine. In today's episode, we have Dr. Moriah McCaulay, our awesome host, and her guest, Dr. Ashley Gray from the Veterinary Emergency Group (VEG), discussing the ABCs of ER referral. Referring patients to the emergency room can be a daunting task, especially for new veterinarians. This episode aims to provide valuable insights and step-by-step guidance to make the referral process smoother and more effective.

Dr. Gray emphasizes the importance of a thorough case workup before making a referral. While time constraints can be challenging, it is recommended to consider performing blood work and x-rays at your hospital if possible. This approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the case, potentially saving costs for the client. It's also crucial to establish a network of local veterinarians and speciality centers that you can refer to. Understanding the services they provide and knowing whom to contact for specific cases will set you up for success.

Dr. Gray shares a valuable personal experience that highlights the significance of following a step-by-step process when referring a patient. She emphasizes the need to have open and candid discussions with clients about referral options and financial expectations. It is essential to make that doctor-to-doctor phone call to the receiving facility, providing relevant case information and setting clear expectations. This collaboration ensures a smoother transition for the patient, client, and referral center.

To facilitate the referral process, Dr. Gray suggests ensuring that medical records, diagnostics, and test results are complete and promptly sent to the receiving facility. While electronic communication is preferred, printing physical copies of records can serve as a backup. It's crucial to keep the medical record concise and include information on discussions about estimates and owner approval. Following up with the client and obtaining feedback from the referral facility enhances client satisfaction and fosters a strong bond with your clients.

Remember, the key to success lies in a well-rounded case workup and establishing strong connections within your veterinary network.

 Episode Outline 

• [00:00] Episode intro 
• [01:36] Dr. Moriah welcomes Dr. Ashley 
• [03:03] Dr. Ashley gives her personal story of a time when she failed to make a proper ER referral 
• [05:02] Steps to making ER referral 
• [05:40] Whom do you call? 
• [06:35] Have a candid conversation with the client 
• [09:55] Importance of having a conversation with the referral doctor and client before making the actual referral
• [10:44] Cross-checking the medical records 
• [13:27] Setting the client up for the possible payment amount 
• [14:59] Filling in forms at the referral centre 
• [16:31] Cases that need a referral 
• [17:29] Conducting a patient follow through 
• [19:35] Episode wrap up
• [20:04] The end 

Connect with Dr. Ashley Gray

• LinkedIn
• Youtube
• Instagram

Are you a veterinarian struggling to find a work-life balance? In this episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?" podcast, Dr. Moriah McCauley interviews Dr. Danielle Alleman to uncover the secrets to achieving harmony between your professional and personal life. 

Dr. Danielle Alleman is a decorated veterinarian having served in the industry for several years now and in several companies, organizations, and roles. She has experience as a Relief Veterinarian at VetIQ and Alleman Veterinary Relief Services and also as an Associate Veterinarian at Quincy Veterinary Clinic and Kulshan Veterinary Hospital. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science from the University of Massachusetts Amherst and obtained her Doctoral degree in Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University. This was followed by a  Master of Science degree in industrial and organizational psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. 

Dr. Alleman currently serves as the CEO of Empathos Veterinary Wellness and the Relief Veterinarian at Alleman Veterinary Relief Services. 

Dr. Alleman knows firsthand the challenges that come with being a veterinarian and juggling her personal life. She understands that finding a true balance may be difficult, but she believes that it's all about finding a middle ground that feels sustainable. 

During this conversation, Dr. Alleman shares her own experience as a new graduate, where she found herself completely consumed by work. But she soon realized the importance of rediscovering her hobbies and interests outside of veterinary medicine. She encourages new graduates to explore different activities and areas of interest to find what brings joy and balance to their lives. 

One of the key takeaways from this discussion is the importance of setting boundaries. Dr. Alleman advises against checking work-related emails or engaging with work-related tasks during personal time. By creating clear boundaries and disconnecting from work, veterinarians can better separate their professional and personal lives. 

But it's not just about disconnecting from work; it's also about finding activities that bring you joy and help you reduce stress. Dr. Alleman shares her personal experience of going on a ski trip and how it helped her shift her focus away from work. Engaging in activities that create a state of flow, where time seems to fly by and the mind feels lighter, can greatly improve mental health and contribute to achieving work-life balance. 

Tune in to get more understanding of what real work-life balance means.

Episode Outline 

● [00:00] Episode Intro 

● [03:17] How do you approach the topic of work-life balance? 

● [04:42] Finding hobbies and interests outside of veterinary medicine 

● [07:57] Leaving work at work 

● [11:07] Finding ways to de-stress 

● [11:35] Programing yourself to the free mental state 

● [12:28] Advice to new and recent veterinary graduates on creating work-life balance

● [13:46] Episode wrap up 

● [14:14] The end 

Connect with Dr. Danielle Alleman 

● LinkedIn 

● Instagram 

● Website

Episode Description

Are you a cat owner looking for the purr-fect veterinary clinic? Or maybe you're a veterinarian considering specializing in feline care? In this episode, we dive into the world of feline-only clinics with Dr Gary Marshall. 

Dr Gary Marshall is a graduate of the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Gary has previously been the president of the Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and currently serves on the board of directors. He also serves as a representative from Washington State in the House of Delegates for the American Veterinary Medical Association. Back in 2020, Dr Marshall was elected to serve on the board of the Women’s Veterinary Leadership Development Initiative and was appointed to serve on the Advisory Group of the AVMA/AAVMC Commission for a Diverse, Equitable, and Inclusive Veterinary Profession. 

Dr Marshall shares the unique aspects of his feline-only clinic. One of the main differences he highlighted was the calm and quiet environment, without the presence of barking dogs. But it's not just about the peaceful atmosphere. Dr Marshall explained that focusing solely on cats allows him to delve deeper into their specific needs and conditions. And let me tell you, he's seen it all. From quirky behaviors to the most intricate medical cases, he's got it covered.

The episode also discusses why cat owners are drawn to feline-only clinics. Turns out, many of them want their cats to be in a stress-free environment without the presence of dogs. Dr Marshall also shares some interesting insights into people's misconceptions about their cats being difficult to handle. 

And here's a little nugget of wisdom from Dr Marshall himself: "Even if you're going into a dog and cat practice, gaining experience in a feline-only clinic can be incredibly beneficial." So, if you're a veterinary student or a practicing vet, consider exploring the world of feline medicine. You won't regret it!

Episode Outline 

• [00:00] Episode intro 
• [00:59] Dr Maria McCauley introduces the guest, Dr Gary Marshall 
• [01:47] Differences between feline-only clinics and general practices that treat both dogs and cats
• [03:01] Effect of specializing of one species on Vet’s skills
• [03:54] Differences in client pattern
• [05:05] Dr Gary  narrates how he started his practice
• [07:06] Advice for veterinary students considering a career in a feline-only clinic
• [08:37] Student’s thoughts on feline only practice 
• [10:54] Benefits of working in a feline-only clinic
• [11:42] The importance of gaining experience in a feline-only practice
• [12:15] Episode wrap up
• [12:38] The end

Show Links 

• https://www.drdavenicol.com/product-page/the-yellow-pages-are-dead-digital-marketing-for-vets 
• https://www.drdavenicol.com/ 
• https://vetxinternational.com/thrive/ 

Connect with Dr. Gary Marshal

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

We have some exciting news to share with you today! We are rebranding our show "That Vet Life Podcast" to "So You're a Vet, Now What?" and I couldn't be more thrilled about it. The change reflects our refocussed mission to provide mentorship and guidance to final-year vet students and recent graduates as they navigate their early years as veterinary professionals.

The podcast world is full of chat-show-style podcasts (Our very own Blunt Dissection being one of the original and best!) These shows', while great, offer very little specific guidance relevant to a particular topic, and it's a little random whether you get a good episode or not.

So we wanted to state our claim to being the best source of early career advice and mentorship in the veterinary universe. We're a place where you get awesome actionable advice to help you get to grips with becoming the vet you always dreamed of being! Whether you listen to our podcast, read a book, or take a class!

So, out go the longer form open interview questions and in comes the straight-to-the-point advice direct from our awesome host Dr Moriah McCauley.

In our upcoming episodes, we will bring you experienced veterinarians as guests to answer common questions and provide valuable insights. We will be your audio mentor, offering advice and support as you embark on this incredible journey.

Stay tuned for future episodes, and don't forget to subscribe to the podcast. Together, let's build a brighter, more successful future for the veterinary profession.

We also want to hear from you! If you have any questions you'd like us to answer on the podcast, feel free to contact us through social media or send your questions directly to Dr. Dave Nicol or Dr Moriah McCauley - Links listed below. We want to address the topics that matter most to you and provide the guidance you need.

Oh, and one more thing, we have created a Facebook group called "So You're a Vet, Now What?" This is a secure community where veterinarians (there are more than 3000 ready to help) can engage with each other, ask questions, and share experiences. It's a great place to connect with like-minded professionals and form part of your support network.

Episode Outline

• [00:00] Episode Intro
• [01:41] Dr. Dave Nicol explains the decision to retire some brands and align all assets under one umbrella
• [04:26] Dr. Moriah McCauley Announces the rebranding of "The Vet Life Podcast" to "So You're a Vet, Now What?"
• [07:21] List of guests in the upcoming episodes
• [11:20] Dr. Dave Nicol shares a tip on how to easily insert a urinary catheter in male cats.
• [12:48] Dr. McCauley shares the career-stabilizing advice she’s found in her experience as a vet
• [15:30] Stability Advice for Veterinary Professionals 
• [16:19] Episode wrap up

Show Links 

• https://www.drdavenicol.com/product-page/the-yellow-pages-are-dead-digital-marketing-for-vets 
• The So You're A Vet Facebook Group.

Connect with Dr. Moriah McCauley

• Instagram

Connect with Dr. Dave Nicol 

• Email
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Instagram
• Twitter

Are you a new graduate in the veterinary field? Have you ever considered emergency medicine? In this episode of "That Vet Life," Dr. Moriah McCauley hosts Dr. Marcus Dela Cruz and together discuss a controversial article that suggests new graduates should not go into emergency medicine. 

Both Dr. Moriah and Dr. Marcus agree that new graduates face many challenges in the veterinary field, and it's important to set them up for success. While the article may have been poorly worded and discouraging, Dr. Moriah and Dr. Marcus suggest finding a balance between giving new graduates the courage to become doctors while also providing them with a realistic mindset and expectations. They also highlight the importance of mentorship and training programs, particularly in emergency medicine, to prevent burnout and ensure a sufficient number of veterinarians in the field.

So, what's the most valuable lesson? It's to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses and create a plan to target specific areas for improvement. Don't be discouraged by the controversial article, and reach out for help and mentorship. 

Click here to access the full podcast episode 

Remember, there's no one right way to become a veterinarian, and different paths can lead to success.

Episode Outline 

• [00:00] Episode Intro
• [01:59] Dr. Marcus gives the overarching idea of the recently published controversial article on ER Medicine
• [04:48] Balancing Realism and Encouragement for New Graduates
• [09:48] Dr. Marcus reflects on his early career years
• [11:17] Ad Break- Register for our Vet Career Concierge Service
• [13:08] Dr. Moriah talks about gaps in the training of new grads
• [13:48] What hospitals need to do to train and mentor new grads into ER work
• [16:21] Discussion on burnout during vet grad internships 
• [22:23] Setting up new graduates for success 
• [24:18] Finding the right mentorship 
• [26:17] Episode wrap up
• [28:42] The end 

Show Links 

• Join Thrive- https://www.vetxinternational.com/thrive 
• https://www.vetxinternational.com/jobs/ 
• https://www.vetxinternational.com/career-concierge/ 
• https://vetgirlontherun.com/why-you-shouldnt-go-into-er-after-you-graduate-veterinary-school-vetgirl-veterinary-continuing-education-blog/ 

Connect with Dr. Moriah

• LinkedIn
• Instagram 
• Facebook

Connect with Dr. Marcus

• LinkedIn

For this week's episode of That Vet Life Show, Dr. Lianne Mellin joins Dr. Moriah.

Dr. Lianne Mellin is a veterinarian who completed her graduation in veterinary medicine in

2020 from The University of Queensland, Australia. In her third year, she launched the

"Your Vet Lianne" YouTube channel, which features engaging content.

As a general practitioner in New Zealand, Dr. Lianne is presently employed in a companion

animal clinic. Her areas of interest are soft tissue surgery, dentistry, and providing pet

care advice to owners with a strong emphasis on preventative healthcare.

In this episode, Dr. Lianne Mellin shares her personal experience with VetX International’s

Thrive Mentorship Program and how it positively impacted her personal and professional

life. Listen in to find out what is offered in the course, who the course is tailored for, and

how you can enroll in it.

Outline

● 01:13 - Dr. Moriah begins the episode with a short preview of the episode.

● 02:10 - Dr. Lianne Mellin introduces herself, sharing her journey in the Vet

profession so far.

● 04:52 - Dr. Lianne discusses the most useful lesson she learned from the Thrive

Mentoring Program and how the program's focus on soft skills benefited her career.

● 08:45 - Talking about the module of the Mentorship Program, Dr. Lianne goes in

depth of

● 11:48 - A short ad break - Join our Career Concierge service.

● 13:03 - Based on her experience, Dr. Lianne offers her view regarding who would

gain the most from the Thrive Mentoring Program.

● 15:04 - Dr. Lianne explains why the Thrive Mentorship Program perfectly fits

the recent graduate and final-year vet student.

● 20:05 -

● 21:40 -Dr. Moriah wraps up the episode.

Description 

This week's That Vet Life Show features a Q&A with Dr. Moriah McCauley.

Dr. Moirah McCauley combined a love of animals and a passion for caring for others to become a small animal veterinarian. She had the chance to study with outstanding veterinarians in the country when she was pursuing her veterinary degree at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. She found a means to share these possibilities with her colleagues after realizing how valuable their tales were, which is how she entered into podcasts. 

Dr. McCauley started to concentrate on the function of these stories in veterinary medicine and how storytelling can enhance outcomes for clients and patients as she made the transition from student to doctor. Through her engaging storytelling, she encouraged veterinarians and veterinary students to be competent and confident.

During this special Q and A episode, Dr. Moriah and other experienced veterinarians from the vet community answer the vet student’s questions coming straight from the Instagram feed. Listen in as the expert veterinary professionals give various answers and advice to help vet students with the challenges they face.

Outline

• 01:30- Dr. Marcus Dela Cruz and Dr. Kate Boatwright answer how students can manage their dread and anxiety as they prepare to begin vet school. How to dive right into this new chapter of Vet medicine and have a blast doing it.
• If you are a vet student, what is the best way to study efficiently and how do you cope when you do not know everything?
• 06:00- Dr. Moriah answers queries regarding internships and residency.
• What is the right roadmap for veterinary students— enter General Practice right away or take an internship first and pursue a specialization?
• 09:48- Dr. Chris Byers’s research-based take on specialization and internships.
• 13:03- A short ad break - join Thrive.
• 14:10- Dr. Moriah resumes the podcast by discussing how to get the best internship.
• How do you find a job that has good mentorship? How do you even begin looking for it? And how do you know if it will offer you effective mentoring?
• 15:40- Here are some questions you could ask at the interview to get a glimpse of your future career recommended by Dr. Addy Reinhardt
• How often will we have check-in sessions? 
• What will my first week, month, and year look like? 
• What kind of support and resources are available to your new grads here?
• 19:02- Any advice for the jitters on the first day, week, or month?
• 23:50- Dr. Moriah wraps the episode.

That Vet Life Show

EP 167: Dear New Grad

Dr. Moriah McCauley goes solo on the mic in this week’s episode, sharing advice that she

and other veterinarians wish they could have given to their younger selves.

Dr. Moirah McCauley combined a love of animals and a passion for taking care of others to

become a small animal veterinarian. She had the chance to study with outstanding

veterinarians in the country when she was pursuing her veterinary degree at the University

of Edinburgh in Scotland.

She found a means to share these possibilities with her colleagues after realizing how

valuable their tales were, which is how she enter into podcasts. Dr. McCauley started to

concentrate on the function of these stories in veterinary medicine and how storytelling

can enhance outcomes for clients and patients as she made the transition from student to

doctor. Through her engaging storytelling, she encouraged veterinarians and veterinary

students to be competent and confident.

In this special episode, Dr. Moriah and other seasoned vets from the veterinary world offer

vital advice for aspiring vets. Listen in and find out what Dr. Moriah and other seasoned

veterinarians would like to tell their younger selves.

Outline

● 01:12 - Dr. Moriah begins the episode with a short preview.

● 04:02 - Dr. Moriah discusses her experience as a vet graduate, highlighting the

highs and lows of the journey.

● 06:06 - Dr. Moriah talks about the challenges associated with the transition from a

vet student to a practising veterinarian.

● 09:10 - Speaking on mentoring, Dr. Moriah calls attention to the role of mentors,

stressing the value of effective mentoring in the growth of new grads.

● 10:55 - A short ad break - Join our Career Concierge service.

● 12:12 - Dr. Moriah picks up the podcast by discussing the responsibilities of mentors

and how the appropriate mentorship can assist the recent graduate in overcoming

daily challenges.

● 19:30 - Dr, Moriah reads the advice offered by seasoned veterinarians from the

vetstagram community.

● 21:40 -Dr. Moriah wraps up the episode

Episode Description

For this week's episode of That Vet Life Show, Dr. Michael Bugg joins Dr. Moriah. 

With over ten years of practical expertise in veterinary medicine, Dr. Michael Bugg is a competent veterinarian. He began his career as a mixed-animal veterinarian after earning his veterinary degree from the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 before transitioning to a small-animal general practice.

Michael has always had a strong interest in business, investment, and personal finance, which helped him become a prosperous real estate investor. Michael also co-founded the Veterinary Project podcast to create a network of veterinarians who could share experiences and collaborate to overcome the many obstacles they faced in their line of work.

In this episode, Dr. Michael talks about personal development, sharing his personal life experience to answer some common questions that young veterinarians have in the early days of their careers. Listen in as Michael discusses his personal development story, emphasizing how he overcame obstacles and made important career decisions.

Outline

• 01:13 - Dr. Moriah begins the episode with a short introduction of Dr. Michael Bugg.
• 02:00 - Dr. Michael Bugg shares his journey from a mixed-animal veterinarian to a full-time real estate investor and podcaster. 
• 06:02 - Talking about mentorship, Dr. Michael Bugg shares his experience with his mentor in the early day of his career.
• 10:20 - Michael talks about how mentorship helped him to develop professionally. 
• 11:45 - Michael talks about the book he is currently working on, which describes how veterinarians can keep their dream job from becoming a nightmare.
• 14:20 - A short ad break - Join our Career Concierge service.
• 15:40 - Dr. Moriah and Michael talk about imposter syndrome, offering vital tips and techniques on how to overcome it.
• 22:50 - Dr. Michael talks about the Veterinary Project podcast and his upcoming book—“You are gonna get peed on”.
• 21:40 -Dr. Moriah wraps up the episode.