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Veterinary education, leadership, Muppets, & anesthesia all in one episode. In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, Dr. Kate Bailey—veterinary anesthesiologist, educator, and positive leadership advocate—joins host, Dr. Megan Sprinkle, for a deep and refreshing conversation about career evolution in vet med. Kate shares the winding, very human path of her professional success.

We talk about the three major stages of a veterinary career, why fear can be a compass, how to build confidence in a high-stakes field like anesthesia, and why having a supportive community is key to career happiness and sustainability—no matter where you are in your journey.

**⏱️ Episode Chapters** 
00:00 Intro 
02:00 Kate’s path into vet med 
06:30 Fear of anesthesia—and how she leaned in 
10:45 Vet school vs. the real world 
16:00 Why she fell in love with teaching 
21:00 The 3 Stages of a Veterinary Career 
30:00 Leadership, education & adult learning 
38:00 The importance of community in vet med 
43:00 Finding purpose—and redefining success 
48:00 What’s next for Dr. Kate Bailey 
49:00 Final thoughts & gratitude 

Resources:
Episode on YouTube

**📢 Mentioned in the Episode:** 
- North American Veterinary Anesthesia Society (NAVAS)
- Zoetis REVAMP Program
- Book: *Lead to Thrive* by Josh Vaisman 
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**🎙️ About Vet Life Reimagined**  
This podcast explores the many paths veterinary professionals take—and how to build a meaningful, sustainable career in vet med. Whether you're a student, seasoned DVM, or someone who loves animals and innovation, you're in the right place.

Support the show

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

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Embracing Neurodiversity in Veterinary Medicine with Dr. Laurie McCauley | Vet Life Reimagined
 
In this touching and insightful episode of Vet Life Reimagined, returning guest Dr. Laurie McCauley dives deep into the topic of neurodiversity and its impact on the veterinary profession. Dr. McCauley shares her personal journey of discovering her autism in her fifties and how it has reshaped her understanding of herself and her work. She highlights the prevalence of neurodiversity in animal-focused careers, discusses common neurodivergent traits, and offers practical tips for creating a more inclusive and supportive veterinary environment. Don't miss this powerful conversation that could change the way you view neurodiversity in vet med!

Resources:

• Video episode on YouTube
• Previous episode with Laurie

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?
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Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
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From Wall Street to Vet Clinics: Dr. Brett Shorenstein's Veterinary Journey

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, we delve into Dr. Brett Shorenstein's fascinating transition from investment banking to becoming a successful veterinary practitioner and entrepreneur. Dr. Shorenstein, Co-Founder of  Veterinary Innovation Partners (VIP), shares invaluable insights on finding your path in veterinary medicine, and the importance of mentorship, culture, and technology. Discover how he navigated the challenges of owning a small business, the significance of AI in veterinary practice, and how he's fostered an innovative and supportive work environment. Tune in for an inspiring and informative conversation that's sure to resonate with veterinary professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Resources:

• Watch episode on YouTube
• Abingdon Square 
• Veterinary Innovation Partners 

Support the show

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

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In this captivating episode, filmmakers delve into their groundbreaking
documentary, "The Cost of Caring," which sheds light on the unseen struggles
within the veterinary profession. Unseen to people outside of vet med.
Discover their unique journey from teaching and filmmaking to documenting
the highs and lows faced by vets. Learn about the intricate process of creating
a documentary, the unexpected impacts of COVID-19 on filming, and the
heartfelt stories that emerged. Gain insights into the challenges vets face,
from emotional burnout and compassion fatigue to financial strain and difficult
client communications. This episode is a must-watch for veterinary
professionals, pet owners, and anyone interested in understanding the deeper
nuances of veterinary care.

Resources

• Episode on YouTube
• Watch the Documentary, The Cost of Caring
• Watch on PBS
• Watch on TPT
• Watch on Cascade PBS

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.
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Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
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A portfolio career - From Vet Tech to Veterinary Leader: Dr. Jennifer Quammen's Inspiring Journey | Vet Life Reimagined

Join us in this episode of Vet Life Reimagined as we dive into the fascinating story of Dr. Jennifer Quammen. Dr. Quammen started her journey in the veterinary field as a veterinary technician and has since become a practicing veterinarian, coach, Chief Veterinary Officer at Otto, and former Vice President of the AVMA. She opens up about her career path, her experience with the AVMA, and her passion for making meaningful changes in the profession. Tune in to hear her thoughts on the changing landscape of veterinary medicine, and her run for AVMA President-Elect in 2025. Don't miss her valuable insights and inspiring journey!

Resources:

• Episode on YouTube
• Dr. Jen Quammen's website

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?
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Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
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- Subscribe on YouTube
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AI and Technology in Veterinary Medicine: Insights from Dr. Jonathan Lustgarten

In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, returning guest Dr. Jonathan Lustgarten, Director of AI and Machine Learning at Mars Veterinary Health, discusses the rapid evolution of AI in veterinary medicine. Over the past two and a half years, AI tools have exploded within the field, impacting diagnostics, communication, and career opportunities for veterinary professionals. The conversation covers the burgeoning role of AI in veterinary informatics, the challenges of adopting new technologies, and the importance of education in responsibly integrating AI into veterinary practices. Dr. Lustgarten also touches on future trends, the role of AI in client communication, and how AI can offer new career pathways for veterinarians.

Resources:

• Dr. Lustgarten's first appearance on Vet Life Reimagined (audio) (YouTube)
• This episode on YouTube

00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction
00:38 AI Evolution in Veterinary Medicine
01:31 Career Changes and AI Impact
02:19 AI Tools and Their Adoption
04:38 Understanding Veterinary Informatics
07:31 Challenges and Opportunities with AI
13:44 Future Trends and Education in Veterinary AI
21:53 Legal Ramifications of AI in Veterinary Medicine
22:08 AI in Automated Driving: Expectations vs. Reality
23:12 AI's Role in Veterinary Education and Practice
24:01 Client-Centric AI Innovations in Veterinary Medicine
24:36 Wearable Technology and AI for Pets
25:07 AI-Driven Client Communication Tools
26:01 Challenges and Benefits of AI in Veterinary Medicine
29:27 The Future of AI in Veterinary Medicine
32:23 Data Management and AI: Current State and Future Prospects
36:49 Responsible Use of AI and Data Privacy
40:41 Career Pathways in Veterinary Medicine with AI
42:45 Final Thoughts on AI and Technology in Veterinary Medicine

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.
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Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
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Vet Life Reimagined podcast guest, Amy Newfield, MS, CVT, VTS (ECC) shares her journey from a passionate animal-loving child to a leading veterinary technician. Amy's relentless curiosity and determination propelled her through various roles, from general practice to emergency medicine and even teaching. She’ll share struggles and triumphs, including her candid insights on career obstacles for veterinary technicians, the importance of effective leadership, and the significance of continuous education. We discuss valuable lessons on navigating the veterinary profession and find motivation to pursue your own career aspirations, whether you're new to vet med or an experienced professional. 

Resources:

• Episode on YouTube
• Amy's Website & Online CE, Vet Team Training
• Oops, I Became a Manager book
• Oops, My Team is Toxic book
• Oops, I Colored Outside the Lines 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?
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And use Descript as your recording platform, editing tool, AI resources, and more. Use my referral link for a discount. 

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
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In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Kelly Cronin, a veterinary technician with over 32 years of experience who has successfully broken industry stereotypes. Kelly discusses transforming a veterinary technician career into a gateway for financial possibilities, including world travel, real estate investing, and financial independence. Learn about her diverse accomplishments, including becoming a VTS in emergency and critical care, international speaking, and co-founding VetTechLife CE on the Seas. Discover practical strategies for building wealth on a veterinary technician's salary, creative solutions for making travel and continuing education more accessible, and how to shift your money mindset from 'we can't afford it' to one of growth and opportunity. Tune in to hear Kelly's actionable advice and gain insight into creating a life that exceeds expectations. Don't miss out on her transformational story and valuable financial tips.

Resources

• VetTechLife CE on the Seas
• Cronin's Castles
• Kelly on the Choose FI podcast
• Kelly on the Veterinary Financial Podcast
• Quit Like A Millionaire book
• Paula Pant

00:00 Introduction to Financial Freedom for Vet Techs
00:18 Meet Kelly Cronin: Breaking Stereotypes
02:30 Kelly's Early Passion for Animals
03:25 Forming a Money Mindset
07:26 Career Setbacks and New Beginnings
10:53 The Power of Mentorship and Specialization
19:53 Real Estate Ventures and Financial Growth
25:48 The Importance of 401k and Financial Planning
30:15 Developing Money Mindsets in Children
30:50 Changing the Rhetoric Around Money
33:12 Empowering Veterinary Teams
35:58 Supporting Career Growth in Veterinary Medicine
39:14 Creative Financial Solutions
42:20 Setting and Achieving Goals
46:00 Exciting Ventures and Opportunities
52:07 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.
And use Descript as your recording platform, editing tool, AI resources, and more. Use my referral link for a discount. 

Make sure you are following the podcast to catch each weekly episode. Here are ways to support the podcast:
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About today's Vet Life Reimagined guest:
Rachel Teichberg, cvpm, cvbl, ccfp has experience as a veterinary assistant, veterinary practice manager, and now serves as the Head of Education and Program Development at Veterinary Growth Partners. She is also the co-host of The VetMed Mind podcast which shares stories of personal success in veterinary medicine. Rachel shares how she learned to break free from perfectionism, navigate a chronic illness, and ultimately find her true calling in veterinary medicine - just not in the way she originally imagined. 

Resources:

• Episode on YouTube
• Veterinary Growth Partners website
• VetMed Mind Podcast

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Support the show

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

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About the guest: Michael earned a bachelor’s degree in animal sciences at MTSU in 2006 and married his wife two weeks after she finished veterinary school. Between Jan 2007-2015, he was an extension agent responsible for the 4-H youth development. In 2015 he took an agriculture teaching position in a county school in Murfreesboro. In 2018 he came to work full-time as the veterinary practice manager at Family Pet Health, a Fear Free Certified small animal veterinary hospital for dogs, cats, and exotics. He manages the business and focuses on practice culture, HR, finances, and strategic planning. In 2022 they started a podcast for pet parents for education. 

Resources:

• Episode on YouTube
• Family Pet Health website
• Family Pet Health Podcast

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.
And use Descript as your recording platform, editing tool, AI resources, and more. Use my referral link for a discount. 

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!