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Vet Life Reimagined and host Dr. Megan Sprinkle brings guest, Jacklyn Phillips, RVT a relief veterinary technician.  Jacklyn's diverse experiences and passion for veterinary medicine led her to create Action Vet Tech Services, a relief vet tech service company in 2019.

The conversation covers Jacqueline's early career challenges, including a lack of career growth, financial concerns, and burnout. Key insights from her journey include maintaining healthy boundaries, dealing with burnout, making risky career choices, and fostering a supportive work culture. Jacqueline also shares her approach to self-care, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical health.

Resources:
Episode on YouTube
Action Vet Tech Services website

00:00 Introduction to Vet Life Reimagined
00:32 Jacqueline Phillips' Early Career and Challenges
02:50 Transition to Veterinary Technician
06:22 Experiences in Emergency and Academia
14:16 Burnout and Career Shift
16:29 Venturing into Sales and Entrepreneurship
20:35 Founding a Relief Veterinary Technician Service
24:09 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Risk
25:02 Empowering Technicians with Autonomy
27:10 The Role of a Locum Veterinary Technician
29:20 Adapting to Different Clinic Environments
32:38 Building Respect and Trust on the Job
36:56 Sustaining a Career in Veterinary Medicine
40:47 The Importance of Appreciation and Community
42:32 Words of Wisdom for Veterinary Professionals
45:48 Maintaining Health and Boundaries as an Entrepreneur
48:11 Conclusion and Resources

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Reflecting on 2024: Career Shifts, Personal Milestones, and Connection in Veterinary Medicine

In this solo audio exclusive episode of Vet Life Reimagined, your host, Dr. Megan Sprinkle, reflects on a transformative year in both professional and personal life. Starting with the decision to make a career change at the VMX conference, the episode covers securing a new job, passing a board exam in nutrition, and discovering a pregnancy. The narrative underscores the importance of vulnerability, human connection, flexibility, and curiosity in both veterinary careers and personal life. The host shares the joyful experience of announcing a pregnancy and the birth of her daughter. With predictions for the future of vet med and a focus on community and personal growth, this episode provides a heartfelt and optimistic outlook for the year ahead.

00:00 Welcome to Vet Life Reimagined
01:03 Reflecting on a Transformative Year
02:19 Career Changes and New Beginnings
03:22 Discovering Pregnancy at VMX
04:12 Navigating Career and Pregnancy
04:46 Passing the Board Exam
07:49 Embracing Connection and Change
09:06 The Joy of Motherhood
13:31 Looking Towards the Future
18:24 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

Support the show

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Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

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Discovering Joy in Veterinary Medicine through Improv and Connection with Dr. Matt Ashuto

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, host, Dr. Megan Sprinkle sits down with Dr. Matt Asciutto, a veterinarian with a unique career path that began in professional improv before transitioning to veterinary medicine and ER relief work. Dr. Asciutto shares how his early fascination with both comedy and science led him to develop valuable improv skills that have proven beneficial in his veterinary career. He discusses the importance of human connection, collaboration, and a supportive approach to life and work. Dr. Asciutto is on the verge of opening his first hospital and publishing a book, exploring the concept of collaborative-based medicine. This conversation covers his journey from high school improviser to a veterinary professional, the challenges and rewards of relief work, and his ongoing mission to enhance team dynamics and client interactions in veterinary settings.

Resources:

• Episode on YouTube
• https://www.mattasciutto.com/ 
• The Greatest Profession podcast
• Dr. Asciutto's podcast with Al Atkinson (such a fun episode!)

00:00 Introduction
00:08 Meet Dr. Matt Asciutto: From Improv to Veterinary Medicine
01:16 The Intersection of Comedy and Science
03:23 The Magic of Improv and Human Connection
10:52 High School and the Birth of Improv Passion
15:59 College Struggles and Discovering Teaching
24:16 Professional Improv Adventures
30:44 Journey to Veterinary Medicine
37:06 Unexpected Insights in Vet Med
37:48 Navigating Career Expectations
39:40 Vet School to Clinical Practice
40:21 First Steps in Clinical Medicine
43:26 Transition to Emergency and Relief Work
47:15 Building Confidence and Collaboration
54:29 The Journey to Personal and Professional Growth
56:11 Embracing New Opportunities
01:02:12 The Greatest Profession: Reflections and Future Plans
01:05:50 Conclusion and Gratitude 

Support the show

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Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

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Neurologist, Veterinary wildlife expeditions, Wildlife photographer, Children's book author...

This episode's Vet Life Reimagined guest is Richard A. LeCouteur, DVSc, PhD, Diplomate ACVIM(Neurology), Diplomate ECVN, FANZCVS (Hon. Causa), MRCVS
 Professor Emeritus, Neurology & Neurosurgery, University of California, Davis 

In this episode, Dr. Rick LeCouteur shares his lifelong journey in veterinary medicine, starting from a childhood fascination that developed on his family farm in Australia. He discusses his challenges, including failing his first year of veterinary school and the persistence that eventually led him to a successful career. His experiences span across Australia and North America, highlighting the significant impact of mentorship. Now an author and wildlife photographer, he reflects on the importance of giving back and shares his commitment to educating young minds about wildlife and conservation through authoring and illustrating children’s books. His story underscores the diversity of opportunities within the veterinary field and encourages those feeling disillusioned to explore different paths within the profession.

 References:

• Episode on YouTube
• Author/Illustrator Website
• Dr. LeCouteur's Children's Books
• Blog Article, "It's About the People, Stupid"
• Blog Article, "Starting Older: Redefining Retirement for Today's World" 
• Vet Surgery Editorial “It’s Time”
• Veterinary Expeditions (Vet-Ex) 
• Connect with Dr. Rick LeCouteur 
  • LinkedIn
  • Instagram

00:00 Discovering a Passion for Veterinary Medicine

01:09 Childhood and Early Influences

02:26 Educational Journey and Challenges

06:18 Career Beginnings and Internships

11:15 Specializing in Neurology

16:51 Teaching and Mentorship

24:11 Transitioning to a New Adventure

27:20 Writing and Photography

37:03 Reflections and Gratitude

Support the show

More Vet Life Reimagined? 💡 Find us on YouTube and check out our website.
Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

Looking to start a podcast? Use Buzzsprout as your hosting platform like I do! Use this link to get a $20 credit.

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
- Give it a 5-star rating & review
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Share the episode
- Nominate a guest
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Pioneering Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, we are joined by Dr. Laurie McCauley, a pioneer in Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. Dr. McCauley shares her inspiring journey from general practice to becoming one of the first certified specialists in her field. She discusses some of her past career challenges including her initial unsupported interest in acupuncture, and how she established the first rehab clinic for pets with innovative treatments like the underwater treadmill. Dr. McCauley also opens up about her late diagnosis of autism at age 56 and the importance of understanding neurodiversity within veterinary medicine. The episode highlights the significance of perseverance, the impact of empowered learning, and advocating for women in veterinary leadership roles.

Resources:

• Episode on YouTube
• Optimum Pet Vitality & Dr. McCauley’s courses
• American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation
• Academy of Physical Rehabilitation Veterinary Technicians
• Canine Rehabilitation Institute
• Peter Attia’s The Drive podcast
• Hannah Gadsby, comedian

Follow Dr. Laurie on:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• YouTube
• Subscribe to Dr. Laurie's Newsletter

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Laurie McCauley
01:38 Early Aspirations and Challenges
03:02 Navigating Veterinary School and Early Career
07:32 Pioneering Veterinary Sports Medicine
10:48 Creating the First Rehab Clinic
14:08 Innovations in Animal Rehabilitation
23:54 Board Certification and Teaching
27:29 The Joy of Teaching and Making a Difference
27:57 Teaching Veterinary Technicians and Expanding Education
28:46 Balancing Work and Personal Life
29:26 Starting Fresh in North Carolina
30:44 Empowering Pet Parents Through Education
32:41 Addressing the Veterinary Shortage
34:28 Global Impact of Online Courses
35:49 Adopting and Rehabilitating Dogs
43:14 The Importance of Exercise for Longevity
45:09 Diagnosed with Auti

Support the show

More Vet Life Reimagined? 💡 Find us on YouTube and check out our website.
Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

Looking to start a podcast? Use Buzzsprout as your hosting platform like I do! Use this link to get a $20 credit.

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
- Give it a 5-star rating & review
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Share the episode
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!

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Vet Life Reimagined Guest: Melissa Tompkins-Lewis, BS, CVPM, PHRca, CCFP

In this engaging episode of Vet Life Reimagined, host Dr. Megan Sprinkle is joined by Melissa Tompkins Lewis, a certified veterinary practice manager and owner of South Coast Veterinary Management Solutions. Melissa shares her diverse career journey, from her early jobs at Disneyland and in finance to her passion for veterinary business management.

Melissa also opens up about her personal challenges, such as living with multiple sclerosis and being terminated from a job, and how these experiences have strengthened her resilience. The conversation touches on the evolution of veterinary management roles, the importance of continuous learning, and the significance of supporting all team members in a veterinary practice. Melissa's insights offer valuable lessons for anyone in the veterinary field or considering a similar career path.

Resources:
Episode on YouTube
Episode with Rhonda Bell
Melissa's business, South Coast Veterinary Management Solutions
Veterinary Hospital Manager Association (VHMA)

00:00 Introduction to Vet Life Reimagined
00:23 Meet Melissa Tompkins Lewis
01:18 Melissa's Early Career Experiences
04:04 Discovering a Passion for Veterinary Business
14:39 Challenges and Resilience in Melissa's Journey
20:47 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Negative Thoughts
22:49 Recognizing and Stopping Negative Self-Talk
24:50 The Impact of Assumptions and Negative Thoughts
28:10 Transition to Consulting: A New Journey
29:39 Challenges and Rewards of Consulting
34:50 Technological Advancements in Veterinary Medicine
37:48 The Role of Veterinary Technicians
39:26 Personal Reflections and Future Plans
42:39 Gratitude and Support Systems
43:26 Conclusion and Resources

Support the show

More Vet Life Reimagined? 💡 Find us on YouTube and check out our website.
Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

Looking to start a podcast? Use Buzzsprout as your hosting platform like I do! Use this link to get a $20 credit.

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
- Give it a 5-star rating & review
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Share the episode
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Send us a text

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, we explore the journey of Jennifer Brown, a credentialed veterinary technician who found her niche in providing in-home hospice care for pets. Despite trying various roles within veterinary medicine, Jennifer had yet to discover her home in vet med. Influenced by personal experiences and vet med podcasts, she identified a gap in supporting pets and their parents during end-of-life stages. 

We discuss her career shifts, the importance of building strong relationships with clients, and the critical need for compassionate hospice services post-pandemic. The episode also delves into overcoming challenges in social media, branding, and finances, and emphasizes using personal stories to foster trust and deepen connections. Key takeaways include the significance of emotional support for grieving families, leveraging veterinary skills in diverse career paths, and the role of social media in raising awareness about pet loss.

Resources:

• 🐾 Tender Paws Hospice
• 📕 The Invisible Leash
• 📕 The End of Something Wonderful: a practical guide to a backyard funeral
• ❤️ International Association for Animal Hospice and Palliative Care www.iaahpc.org 
• 🐾  Dog Days Consulting
• 🎙️ Vet Tech Cafe podcast
• 🎙️ Vet Life Reimagined website

Chapters:
00:00 Finding My Path in Vet Med
00:15 Introducing Jennifer Brown
01:01 Early Influences and Passion for Animals
02:43 Sled Dogs and 4-H Adventures
06:35 First Steps into Veterinary Medicine
10:16 Challenges and Changes in Vet Med
15:24 Discovering the Human-Animal Bond
18:30 Exploring New Possibilities in Vet Med
22:05 Personal Experiences Shaping Career Choices
24:50 Post-Pandemic Challenges and Business Beginnings
25:58 Navigating New Business Concepts
26:48 Building Relationships in Veterinary Hospice
27:30 Social Media and Outsourcing for Business Growth
28:47 The Importance of Relationships
30:21 Keys to Building Successful Relationships
33:41 Supporting Pet Owners Through End-of-Life Care
41:38 Family Involvement in Pet Hospice
49:27 Gratitude and Final Thoughts

Support the show

More Vet Life Reimagined? 💡 Find us on YouTube and check out our website.
Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

Looking to start a podcast? Use Buzzsprout as your hosting platform like I do! Use this link to get a $20 credit.

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
- Give it a 5-star rating & review
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Share the episode
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!

Send us a text

Breaking Barriers: Empowering Veterinary Careers and Leadership During Challenging Times

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, we explore the unique veterinary career of Dr. Ricky Walther, who has carved a unique career path by embracing mentorship, leadership, and business acumen. The discussion spans various essential topics including the importance of networking, the impact of the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA) and Veterinary Leadership Experience (VLE), and adapting to roles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through Dr. Walther's inspiring story and valuable insight, we highlight overcoming challenges such as self-doubt and burnout, transitioning into impactful roles like Chief Medical Officer at Pawlicy Advisor, and utilizing clinical knowledge to meet business needs. This conversation emphasizes the significance of financial management, preventative medicine, and the power of teamwork, unity, and gratitude in advancing veterinary careers and improving access to care. Tune in to learn about intentional career growth, innovative solutions, and the joy of making a difference in the veterinary field.

Resources:
Episode on YouTube
Ricky Walther, DVM on LinkedIn
VBMA
Pawlicy Advisor

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Ricky Walther
00:14 Early Inspirations and Vet School Journey
01:17 Discovering Veterinary Business Management
04:49 The Importance of Networking and Leadership
07:02 National VBMA and VLE Experiences
18:47 Transitioning from Vet School to Practice
26:47 Re-Energizing in Veterinary Medicine
27:13 The Role of Pet Insurance in Preventative Medicine
28:31 Financial Conversations with Pet Owners
31:35 Transition to Chief Medical Officer
32:41 Creating a Job Description from Scratch
34:40 Translational Skills in Veterinary Medicine
43:53 The Future of Pet Insurance
49:14 Gratitude and Final Thoughts

Support the show

More Vet Life Reimagined? 💡 Find us on YouTube and check out our website.
Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

Looking to start a podcast? Use Buzzsprout as your hosting platform like I do! Use this link to get a $20 credit.

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
- Give it a 5-star rating & review
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Share the episode
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!

Send us a text

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett, financial advisors and hosts of the Smarter Vet Financial podcast, discuss the importance of financial clarity in the veterinary profession. They share their personal journeys into finance, emphasize the significance of financial habits and behaviors, and how these play a role in veterinary careers. The duo also highlights common financial missteps, the evolution of financial mindsets in the veterinary field, and the importance of matching with the right financial advisor. Additionally, they stress the value of planning for career and personal success while managing finances effectively. Their new book, 'Unleashed: The Financial Clarity Every Veterinarian Needs', offers guidance for veterinary professionals. 

Resources:

• Episode on YouTube
• Florida Veterinary Advisors YouTube channel
• Florida Veterinary Advisors website
• Megan Sprinkle's episode on the Smarter Vet Finacial Podcast
• Book _ Unleashed: The Financial Clarity Every Veterinarian Needs

00:00 Introduction to Vet Life Reimagined
00:04 Meet the Financial Advisors: Tom Seiko and CJ Burnett
01:55 Tom Seiko's Journey into Finance
04:50 CJ Burnett's Path from Music to Finance
08:29 The Importance of Financial Habits and Behaviors
13:13 The Evolution of Financial Mindsets in Veterinary Medicine
20:06 Advice for Veterinary Students and New Graduates
24:34 Understanding Financial Statements
25:03 Financial Strain on Veterinary Technicians
25:49 Lifestyle vs. Income: A Vet Tech's Dilemma
26:33 Increasing Your Value in the Veterinary Practice
29:01 Balancing Lifestyle and Financial Goals
35:13 The Importance of Financial Conversations in Relationships
39:19 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Support the show

More Vet Life Reimagined? 💡 Find us on YouTube and check out our website.
Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

Looking to start a podcast? Use Buzzsprout as your hosting platform like I do! Use this link to get a $20 credit.

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
- Give it a 5-star rating & review
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Share the episode
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Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success in Veterinary Practice

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, host Dr. Megan Sprinkle chats with Dr. Kelly Cooper, a veterinarian who shares her inspiring journey from being the only vet at a small rural practice to becoming a practice management coach. Starting her career in a mixed animal practice in rural New Mexico, Dr. Cooper faced numerous challenges, including managing a practice alone just weeks after graduating. Over 15 years, she grew the business significantly, learned leadership skills, and dealt with personal trials such as imposter syndrome. Dr. Cooper later transitioned to a corporate role with Banfield, where she further developed her leadership abilities. Realizing her passion for coaching and teaching, she founded Reality Vet Coaching and Consulting to help veterinarians grow and succeed in their practices. This episode covers her journey, lessons learned, and the importance of vision and personal growth in a veterinary career.

Resources:
Episode on YouTube
Reality Vet Website
Vet Life Reimagined Website

00:00 Introduction and Vision
00:20 Welcome to Vet Life Reimagined
01:13 Dr. Kelly Cooper's Early Career
04:22 Challenges and Growth in Rural Practice
08:10 Community and Support
12:03 Leadership and Personal Development
16:47 Burnout and Resilience
21:15 Public Speaking and New Opportunities
25:36 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change
27:41 Transition to Corporate Leadership
28:38 Joining Banfield: A Life-Changing Decision
29:29 Transitioning to Corporate Culture
30:45 Embracing Team Dynamics
32:28 Self-Discovery and Leadership
35:02 Aligning Career with Personal Values
42:26 Navigating Personal and Professional Changes
43:49 Finding Balance and New Beginnings
53:51 Gratitude and Reflection

Support the show

More Vet Life Reimagined? 💡 Find us on YouTube and check out our website.
Connect with Dr. Megan Sprinkle on LinkedIn

Looking to start a podcast? Use Buzzsprout as your hosting platform like I do! Use this link to get a $20 credit.

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
- Give it a 5-star rating & review
- Subscribe on YouTube
- Share the episode
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!