By Megan Sprinkle, DVM
The dream to go to veterinary school is a common one, but do you know the diversity of veterinary career paths?! As a veterinarian or veterinary technician, you can take your veterinary caree
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The podcast currently has 142 episodes available.
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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
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!
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:
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:
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
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!
Send us a text
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!
Send us a text
In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, we're joined by Dr. Molly McAllister, the Chief Medical Officer of Mars Veterinary Health. Dr. McAllister shares her unique career journey, including her various roles in the veterinary profession, from equine practice to small animal and wildlife medicine, and now industry leadership. We delve into her passion for supporting veterinary professionals' health and wellbeing, her commitment to diversity in the field, and the importance of finding one's impact. This conversation is packed with insights on career flexibility, personal growth, and the broader implications of veterinary work on community health. Key takeaways include embracing diverse career opportunities, the importance of self-care in sustaining a veterinary career, and leveraging veterinary skills for broader impact.
00:00 Introduction and Existential Crises
00:20 Meet Dr. Molly McAllister
01:19 Early Career and Veterinary School
04:35 Exploring Different Veterinary Paths
09:39 Transition to Small Animal Practice
18:25 Wildlife Rehabilitation Experience
24:30 Entering the Industry with Royal Canin
29:01 Role at Banfield and Public Health
36:41 Chief Medical Officer at Mars Veterinary Health
40:33 Sustainability and Future of Veterinary Medicine
47:33 Conclusion and Gratitude
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
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!
Send us a text
Vet Life Reimagined guest is Dr. Dani Rabwin, the founder of Ready Vet Go, a formal mentorship program for new veterinary grads. Dani graduated vet school at UC Davis in 2004, completed an internship, and has been in general practice medicine ever since. An unexpected situation led Dani down a surprising veterinary career path in mentorship which complemented her values of human connection and community.
Resources:
Episode on YouTube
Ready Vet Go website
Veterinary Wellbeing Buddy with Melyssa Allen, MA, NBC-HWC, DIPACLM
AVMA's Dog Bite Prevention Coloring Book
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
Zonram Liao grew up as a parachute kid in California leaving high school with a 2.4 GPA, but something important happened where he knew that he could give back to the community that took care of him. Right after vet school at Ross, Dr. Liao helped build thriving start-up Banfield hospitals and recently opened his own clinic in his hometown called, Sunshine Veterinary Care. During the pandemic, he started over-the-counter health solutions (Wellnergy Pet) to support pet parents who couldn't get in to see the veterinarian.
This is a story of community, a circle of giving and finding ikigai in veterinary medicine. Ikigai is a Japanese term that means "a reason for being" or "a meaning for life". It can refer to something that brings joy, value, or fulfillment.
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
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!
Send us a text
Dr. Jason Balara graduated from Tufts Vet School in 2004. Afterwards, he completed an internship and residency in surgery.
Since 2008, while working in multiple large specialty hospitals, Jason has focused solely on surgery with a passion for complex orthopedic cases and teaching the veterinary community. He mentors interns and residents, trains technicians interested in specializing, and also helps increase surgical understanding in the practices he visits through his mobile surgery services, JMB Mobile Veterinary Surgery.
He grew up working in construction and quickly started using real estate as an investment. He wanted to begin building generational wealth and started investing in single-family homes and while it was lucrative, it required a lot of work. So, he started leveraging a syndication model for investment. Jason founded Lark Capital Group to provide busy and fellow medical professionals with vetted, cash-flowing real estate investing opportunities.
Dr. Balara also has a podcast called: Know Your Why Podcast (Apple Podcast, YouTube)
More 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
- Nominate a guest
- Find out how to become a partner!
Send us a text
About the guest:
Steve Oehley, BVSc was a burnt-out mixed animal veterinarian who through a process of life and career coaching underwent his own transformation from clinical veterinary practice into work that suited his strengths and interests. Since then he has worked in an industry role and now runs Next Step Vet, a career coaching program specifically for veterinarians. The Next Step Vet podcast is a free resource for veterinary professionals. Steve is also starting to support kids and teens in understanding more about themselves and considering career ideas that use their strengths and interests.
Resources:
Episode on YouTube
Next Step Vet Podcast (Apple Podcast, Spotify)
Steve on LinkedIn
Clifton Strengths Assessment
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!
The podcast currently has 142 episodes available.
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