In this episode, I’m sharing my insights on why so many practices lose potential clients—not because of their medical skills or even their marketing, but simply because of how phone calls are handled. I’ll walk you through practical frameworks and real-world communication strategies that you can use to train your front desk staff to turn more inquiries into booked appointments.

We’ll talk about the importance of empathy and how having value-based conversations can completely change the way clients perceive your practice. I’ll also give you actionable tips for handling common objections, so your team feels confident and prepared no matter what comes up on a call. Plus, I’ll show you how to track your results so you can see exactly what’s working and where there’s room for improvement.

Whether you’re a practice owner, manager, or part of the front desk team, this episode is packed with tools and strategies to help you improve your client experience, increase your bookings, and ultimately grow your practice. So grab a notebook, tune in, and let’s make sure you’re turning every phone call into an opportunity for your practice to shine!

In this episode, we break down the real meaning of branding and why it’s the sum of every experience, every touchpoint, and every memory people have with your practice. Danielle shares some fantastic insights on how to go beyond just visuals—like logos and colors—and focus on the details that truly matter, from the way your team answers the phone to the scent in your waiting room. We talk about the three core branding questions every practice owner should ask before even thinking about design: What problem do you solve? How do you solve it differently? And who do you solve it for? Danielle also walks us through how to find your emotional core by channeling your “inner toddler” and asking “why” until you get to the heart of your brand’s purpose.

We also dive into the importance of backing up your brand promises with real action, the difference between brand promises and core values, and why being authentic and consistent is key to building trust with both clients and your team. Danielle shares some great examples of employer branding, showing how practices can attract the right team members by being clear about who they are—and who they’re not. We cover how to maintain brand consistency as you scale, the importance of ongoing brand management, and how to keep your messaging human and specific in the age of AI.

If you’re wondering when to start thinking about branding, Danielle’s advice is clear: the sooner, the better—ideally before you even open your doors. We also talk about why it’s okay (and actually necessary) to be picky about the clients you attract, and how serving everyone can actually hurt your brand in the long run.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your practice’s brand to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable tips, real-world examples, and expert advice to help you build a veterinary brand that resonates and endures. Tune in to learn how to create a brand that’s more than just a logo—it’s a lasting promise to your clients, your team, and your community.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rhys, a veterinary practice owner from Vancouver who brings a unique perspective thanks to his background in hospitality and his passion for building businesses that can thrive without the owner being tied to every detail. We dove deep into what it really takes to transform a veterinary practice from a self-employed job into a scalable, sellable business. Our conversation covered everything from the importance of building robust systems and standard operating procedures, to leveraging data-driven management and authentic marketing that truly reflects your practice’s identity.

Throughout our discussion, Rhys shared actionable strategies for veterinary professionals who want to attract, engage, and retain clients—while also reclaiming their time and sanity. We talked about defining your mission and vision as the foundation for all your systems, the necessity of SOPs for consistency and delegation, and how to use key performance indicators (KPIs) to proactively manage your practice. We also explored pricing strategies that balance value and affordability, and the critical importance of client retention and lifetime value. Rhys even provided a toolkit of resources and calculators to help practice owners make informed decisions about hiring, budgeting, and pricing.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your established practice to the next level, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world examples. We wrapped up by discussing how to adapt to the future, especially with the rise of corporate competition and shifting market dynamics. My goal with this episode is to give you the insights and tools you need to build a veterinary practice that works for you—not the other way around. If you’re ready to create a business that can run (and grow) without your constant presence, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Sheila Fitzpatrick, a seasoned expert in veterinary practice management and valuation. We dove deep into the complexities of selling veterinary practices, exploring everything from the current market landscape to the nuances of selling to corporate buyers versus private individuals. Dr. Fitzpatrick shared invaluable insights on the importance of exit planning and how it can significantly impact the success of a sale. We also discussed the viability of both private and corporate sales, with Dr. Fitzpatrick highlighting that while corporate buyers often pay higher multiples, many veterinarians prefer selling to private individuals to maintain the essence of their practice.

We also touched on the importance of understanding market trends and projections. Dr. Fitzpatrick emphasized the need for practice owners to attend town planning meetings to gain insights into local growth, which can be crucial when considering practice acquisitions. Additionally, she stressed the importance of early exit planning, ideally starting five years before a sale. This involves financial assessments, professional valuations, and preparing the business for a smooth transition. We also discussed the pros and cons of leasing versus owning real estate for veterinary practices, with ownership offering more control and stability.

Moreover, Dr. Fitzpatrick shared strategies for enhancing practice value, such as diversifying services and leveraging technology. By investing in advanced diagnostic equipment and expanding service offerings, practices can increase their appeal to potential buyers. We also covered the impact of rising interest rates on practice sales and the challenges of recruitment and retention in the veterinary field. Dr. Fitzpatrick provided practical tips for effective marketing strategies, emphasizing the role of digital marketing and community engagement in attracting and retaining clients. Overall, this episode is packed with expert advice and actionable strategies for veterinary practice owners looking to navigate the complexities of selling their business.

In our latest episode, I had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of email marketing with some fantastic guests from Family Pet Health. Joining me were Michael Shirley, co-owner of Family Pet Health, Stephen Shirley, their Director of Operations, and Haley Cameron, who handles social media and public outreach. We explored how veterinary practices can harness the power of email marketing to not only attract new clients but also engage and retain existing ones. This episode is packed with actionable insights that any veterinary practice can implement to boost their email marketing game.

We kicked things off by discussing the current state of email marketing at Family Pet Health. Michael shared how their email efforts have been somewhat sporadic, primarily focusing on informational content. However, they've recently ramped up their email frequency, sending out more emails in the last few months than they did in the previous nine months combined. The challenge, as Michael pointed out, has been incorporating strong calls to action in these emails. We then delved into their specific goals, like increasing dental compliance and raising awareness about their fear-free certification. Stephen highlighted the ongoing challenge of improving heartworm compliance, emphasizing the need for better communication with clients. We also touched on the tools they're using, like Pet Desk and Mailchimp, and how they plan to leverage these platforms more effectively.

One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of setting clear expectations with clients regarding email frequency and content. We discussed strategies like welcome sequences for new subscribers, win-back sequences for lapsed clients, and nurturing emails that provide valuable information while encouraging action. Michael stressed the need for educational content that guides clients on the next steps, whether that's booking an appointment or learning more about specific services. Haley shared her experiences with community outreach events and how email marketing plays a crucial role in promoting these initiatives. We wrapped up by discussing the value of client feedback and how being responsive can help create a collaborative relationship with clients. Overall, this episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for any veterinary practice looking to enhance their email marketing efforts.

In episode 287, I dive into some exciting strategies to help veterinary practices not just survive but truly thrive as we head into 2025. With my background in managing over $38 million in ad spend specifically for veterinary hospitals, I've gathered some valuable insights into effective marketing strategies, content creation, and client engagement. In this episode, I break down these strategies into actionable steps, aiming to guide you through the ever-evolving marketing landscape with confidence and clarity.

One of the key topics I explore is the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing. While AI's evolution has been a bit slower than anticipated, its potential to revolutionize content creation and customer engagement is undeniable. I predict that 2025 will be a pivotal year for AI-driven tools, especially in areas like content automation and customer service chatbots. Imagine being able to generate blog posts, social media updates, and email newsletters effortlessly with AI tools like Jasper or Copy.ai. Plus, implementing AI chatbots on your website can handle common inquiries and appointment bookings, freeing up your staff for more complex tasks. But as AI makes content creation easier, the quality and relevance of your content become crucial. That's why I emphasize the importance of standing out by leveraging your unique experiences and insights to connect with clients on a deeper level. Whether it's through niche expertise or compelling storytelling, these strategies can help you build a loyal community around your practice.

Another significant focus of the episode is on creating hyper-personalized offers. Understanding your clients' specific needs and preferences allows you to tailor services that truly resonate with them. By segmenting clients using your CRM based on factors like pet type, age, and health conditions, you can craft targeted offers that speak directly to each segment. Additionally, developing a value ascension ladder can guide clients from initial services to more comprehensive care options, encouraging them to explore additional services that benefit their pets. I also discuss the importance of retention marketing systems, such as personalized follow-up campaigns and client appreciation events, to nurture long-term relationships. Investing in a robust CRM system is crucial for automating follow-ups, managing client communications, and tracking engagement. By focusing on these strategies, you can enhance client engagement, drive growth, and ensure your practice is well-prepared for the future. If you're looking for more personalized advice, feel free to reach out to me via LinkedIn or through the Veterinary Marketing Podcast website. I'm here to help your practice succeed in the coming years!

In a recent episode, I had an insightful chat with Josh Vaisman, co-founder of Flourish Veterinary Consulting and author of "Lead to Thrive: The Science of Crafting a Positive Veterinary Culture." We explored how marketing, workplace culture, and leadership intersect in veterinary practices, and I'm excited to share some key takeaways and actionable advice that can help you enhance your practice's culture and client engagement.

One of the main points we discussed was the importance of defining core values within your practice. Josh and I agreed that a strong culture not only attracts clients but also creates a positive environment for your team. We talked about how to articulate these values clearly and involve your team in the process, ensuring everyone understands and embodies them. Additionally, Josh introduced the concept of operational nudges and incentives to encourage behaviors that align with your values, like using peer recognition to reinforce positive actions.

We also delved into the significance of psychological safety and how leaders can support their teams, especially during challenging client interactions. Josh shared some great tips on fostering a safe and supportive work environment, which is crucial for maintaining a positive culture. We even touched on the idea of filtering clients to ensure they align with your practice's values, which can help maintain a harmonious workplace.

For those of you looking to enhance your practice's culture and leadership strategies, Josh's insights offer a valuable roadmap. Remember, building a positive culture is an ongoing journey that requires intentionality and commitment to shared values. If you're interested in diving deeper, I highly recommend checking out Josh's book and exploring the resources offered by Flourish Veterinary Consulting. Let's work together to create thriving environments for both our clients and teams!

In this episode of the Veterinary Marketing Podcast, I’m excited to share insights from a conversation I had with Colin Theriot, a renowned copywriting expert and founder of the "Cult of Copy" Facebook group. We dove into the transformative power of effective copywriting for veterinary practices and explored strategies to attract, engage, and retain clients. If you're ready to take your marketing to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable advice you won’t want to miss.

We started by addressing the challenges many veterinary practices face, particularly in competing with larger corporate entities. Colin introduced his DUST framework: Differentiate, Unique, Special, and Tribal - as a powerful way to stand out. From identifying what competitors are doing poorly to fostering community and loyalty, these strategies are key to building strong client relationships.

One of the most impactful points was the need to understand client motivations and create offers that truly resonate. Consistent engagement through email marketing and social media ensures your practice stays top-of-mind. Colin shared how planning content with a calendar and inviting interaction in every message can maximize email marketing’s potential.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to boost their veterinary marketing efforts and build long-term client connections!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Isaiah Douglass, the host of the Vet Success Podcast, about how data can revolutionize veterinary marketing. We dove deep into the ways practices can use data to not just attract but also engage and retain clients. It's packed with insights that are especially valuable for veterinary practices eager to leverage data effectively. We kicked things off by discussing the importance of demographic data in shaping marketing strategies. I emphasized how crucial it is to understand the local population's values and preferences rather than relying on assumptions about an ideal client. Isaiah and I both agreed that moving beyond assumptions and focusing on real community data can lead to more successful marketing outcomes.

As we continued our conversation, we explored the significance of identifying target audiences based on buying styles and preferences. Isaiah shared how understanding whether potential clients are bargain hunters or value quality can shape marketing strategies. I added that finding a "starving audience" those eager for the services a practice offers - is key to successful marketing. We also touched on the types of data practices should collect, such as drive-time reports, to make informed strategic decisions. Isaiah highlighted the importance of making data actionable, sharing examples of how demographic insights can reveal growth opportunities. We wrapped up by discussing the role of psychographics in crafting resonant marketing messages and how practices can collaborate with local businesses to enhance visibility. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of data-driven marketing in the veterinary field.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Colin from Chckup about the transformative power of data in veterinary practices. We dove deep into how leveraging practice management software and online booking systems can significantly enhance operations, drive growth, and improve client engagement. This episode is packed with key insights and actionable advice for veterinary professionals looking to optimize their practices.

We started by discussing the critical role of data in veterinary practices. Data offers invaluable insights into client behavior, operational efficiency, and revenue drivers. Colin emphasized the importance of tracking Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as revenue sources, appointment types, and client segments. By understanding these metrics, practices can make informed decisions that enhance service offerings and client satisfaction. We also explored how practice management software can streamline operations by automating processes and simplifying data management. Colin shared how Checkup provides tools that automatically pull relevant data and present it in an actionable format, making it easier for practice managers to review daily performance metrics and make necessary adjustments.

We then shifted our focus to optimizing online booking systems. A user-friendly online booking system is essential for modern veterinary practices, as it not only increases appointment volume but also provides valuable data on client preferences and behaviors. Colin pointed out that online booking can guide practices in making informed decisions about where to invest their resources. We also discussed the importance of follow-up reminders to reduce no-show rates and how online booking systems can free up staff to focus on building relationships with clients. Finally, we touched on effective marketing strategies, including the importance of multiple touchpoints, collecting client reviews, and segmenting clients to tailor marketing efforts. This episode underscores the necessity for veterinary practices to embrace data-driven strategies and implement effective communication tools to thrive in a competitive market.