In this episode of the Veterinary Ledger podcast, host Meghan Bingham speaks with Cory Friedman, managing director of the veterinary division of the Alera Group. They discuss the importance of employee benefits in the veterinary field, the evolution of health insurance, and how practices can navigate the complexities of offering competitive benefits. Cory shares insights on determining employee contributions, addressing common questions, and the real-life impact of health insurance on employees' lives. The conversation also highlights resources available for veterinary practices and the significance of collaboration in improving employee well-being.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Tracy Sands shares her unique journey in veterinary medicine, discussing her unconventional path to becoming a veterinarian, the lessons learned from her upbringing on a sheep farm, and her philosophy on practice ownership and client care. She emphasizes the importance of passion in veterinary diagnostics, the significance of a clear practice vision, and the need for kindness in client interactions. Dr. Sands also reflects on her personal growth, including her recent embrace of tattoos, and her experiences with mobile practice.

In this episode of the Veterinary Ledger podcast, Michael Skarie shares his journey of opening Hess Ridge Animal Hospital in Parker, Colorado. He discusses the challenges and rewards of starting his own practice, the importance of customer service, and the value of building a supportive team. Michael emphasizes the need for a strong company culture focused on client service and shares insights on hiring, navigating surprises in business ownership, and balancing work with family life. He offers advice for aspiring business owners, highlighting the significance of having a supportive network and being prepared for sacrifices along the way.

In this conversation, Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett from Florida Veterinary Advisors discuss the importance of financial planning for veterinarians, focusing on liquidity, cash flow management, and retirement planning. They emphasize the need for personalized financial strategies and the significance of diversifying assets to ensure a comfortable lifestyle post-retirement. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by veterinarians in managing their finances and the role of financial advisors in providing clarity and direction.

In this conversation, Jason Regalado shares his journey of transitioning from corporate veterinary practices to opening his own private practice in Garner, North Carolina. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he faced, including the importance of creating a people-centric environment, achieving AHA accreditation, and implementing innovative approaches to veterinary care. Jason emphasizes the significance of team dynamics, financial goals, and maintaining a work-life balance while striving for growth and community engagement.

In this conversation, Ryan Whitley from RWE Design Build discusses the intricacies of designing and constructing veterinary clinics. He explains the design-build process, emphasizing the importance of maximizing space and functionality while managing client expectations and budgets. Ryan also touches on the significance of fear-free certification in design and the collaborative approach to project management. The discussion highlights common misconceptions in veterinary construction and the evolving trends in the industry.

In this episode, we are joined by Brandy Keck, a managing director of Live Oak Bank focused on small business lending. As we dive into the complexities of securing financing for veterinary practices, we explore the current economic challenges, the importance of cash flow, and the critical decision between owning or leasing real estate. Brandy provides insights into SBA loans versus conventional financing, the role of partnerships, and the intricacies of constructing and expanding veterinary practices. The discussion covers the significance of projections, the benefits of SBA loans, and the strategic considerations involved in managing veterinary business finances.

In this episode of the Veterinary Ledger podcast, Dr. Jennifer Edwards discusses the importance of creating a fulfilling life in veterinary medicine, addressing issues of burnout, career ownership, and the significance of understanding personal values. She shares her own experiences with career challenges and emphasizes the need for individuals to take responsibility for their careers. The conversation also explores practical steps to identify job dissatisfaction and the role of leadership in supporting team members.

In this conversation, Kelly Wilson, a remote practice manager at Pawsteps Veterinary Center, shares his journey into remote management, emphasizing the importance of communication, team dynamics, and accountability. He discusses the challenges of remote work, including the loss of personal interaction with clients and staff, and offers advice for those considering a similar path. Kelly highlights the significance of having a strong relationship with practice owners and the need for a supportive team structure to ensure success in remote management.

In this episode of the Veterinary Ledger, our host, Megan, interviews Dr. Ashley Tuma, a successful veterinarian and business owner in Pennsylvania. Dr. Tuma shares her journey from practicing in Chicago to owning two veterinary practices in Pennsylvania. She discusses the challenges and rewards of expanding from one practice to two, emphasizing the importance of business acumen and a supportive team. Dr. Tuma reveals her strategies for managing multiple clinics, maintaining work-life balance, and her future aspirations for further expansion. She also offers valuable advice for veterinarians considering practice ownership and the significance of workplace culture. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with practical insights for veterinary professionals.