Vet Vibes

This first episode marks an exciting new direction for Vet Vibes, where I begin sharing real-world stories from the frontlines of conservation.

I speak with Laura Olarte, a passionate Colombian marine biologist, diver, and educator I met in Utila while participating in the GoEco marine conservation programme at Utila Dive Centre (UDC).

Laura shares her journey from Colombia to the Caribbean, how she became Head of GoEco, and what it's like to work hands-on with reef restoration and species protection. We dive into the threats facing coral reefs today—including Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease—and discuss how local and global conservation efforts are responding.

But more than science, this episode explores connection. Laura speaks beautifully about her deep sense of humanity, her love for the sea, and what it means to dedicate your life to protecting fragile ecosystems.

Whether you're a diver, conservationist, or just reef-curious, this is an episode not to miss.

Timestamps:

1:55 – Early career: how Laura got started in marine biology

5:25 – A career led by purpose

11:55 – Causes of biodiversity loss

12:40 – Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease explained

14:25 – Coral bleaching events

15:25 – Ocean acidification

16:40 – Pollution threats to reefs

18:55 – Weather events and reef resilience

19:55 – Future predictions for the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

22:40 – Diving ethics: privilege vs responsibility

26:25 – Being a woman in conservation

28:55 – Women in diving

30:55 – If Laura had a magic wand…

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

The podcast is taking a longer break than anticipated.
Find out the latest news and follow the IG page for more insights on my reflective journey with a detour in Sri Lanka...

https://www.instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

In today’s episode, I’m joined by James Glass, a Vetlife trustee, who shares deep insights into the vital work Vetlife does alongside his personal experiences within the veterinary profession. Our conversation explores Vetlife’s core missions and organisation.

In the second half, we challenge the stigma around mental health. James and I discuss suicide within the profession in a practical, scientific, yet compassionate way, sharing valuable information that could help those in need or even save lives. We handle this with care, but I encourage anyone who may find this challenging to listen with discretion. Remember, support is always available, and I have included helpful links below.

Resources:

Vetlife:

 - information and help available https://www.vetlife.org.uk/how-we-can-help/

 - volunteering opportunities https://www.vetlife.org.uk/get-involved/

- support through financial giving or donations https://www.vetlife.org.uk/donate/

Mental Health First Aid 

 RCVS-MMI-MHFATraining

https://mhfaengland.org/individuals/adult/

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide:

https://uksobs.com/

Timestamps:

3'14" – Vetlife’s history and core missions

7'20" – The Helpline: how it works

12'40" – Health support services

17'35" – Financial support available

27'20" – 2024 campaign on Neurodiversity

30'50" – Why the Helpline’s popularity is increasing

35'20" – The “S” word: why open conversation matters

44'20" – Approaching someone you’re concerned about

48'50" – Factors contributing to higher suicide rates

59'20" – Suicide prevention and mental health awareness training

1:04:10" – Providing support after an attempt or during bereavement

1:07:40" – Volunteers, ambassadors, and fundraising efforts

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

In this episode, Anna Schumann shares her unique career journey, transitioning from a specialised veterinary nurse to a passionate wildlife conservationist. We explore her diverse experience, from emergency care and practice management to volunteering in global conservation projects. Anna now works with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, helping to protect elephants and their habitats. Tune in for an inspiring look at the many opportunities within the veterinary profession and the vital role of conservation.

To know more and support the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, follow the link.

TImestamps:

3'37" — Curiosity, transferable skills, and maintaining a positive attitude

4'37" — The pull and purpose of clinical veterinary work

8'45" — Flashback: how the veterinary profession has evolved—progress and challenges

19'45" — The realities and struggles of clinical practice

21'00" — Anna’s current role at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and conservation projects

27'00" — Addressing human-elephant conflict

29'00" — Bees and innovative approaches to coexistence

32'00" — A deep passion for volunteer conservation work

36'00" — Reflecting on a career with no regrets

39'45" — Building connections and foundations to a portfolio career

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

In this episode, I’m joined by Lacey Pitcher, a true multi-talented professional in the veterinary world. She’s a proud registered veterinary nurse with a strong passion for advocacy and community-building.

Tune in to learn more about her work, her unique perspective, and how small changes can bring us all closer together.

1.30" Lacey's community and passion projects
10' Could empathy and compassion be lacking in our profession?
15.20" Lacey's top 3 of current mental health challenges
24.30" Practical ways to approach neurodiversity
30.30" Language series: spotlight on RVNs
41.15" Reflecting on "Progress"
47' What "good" looks like


* You can find Lacey here:  https://www.instagram.com/rvnspeaks/?hl=en

* And more resources on neurodiversity here: https://www.vetlife.org.uk/neurodiversity/

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

In this week's episode, we talk with renowned RVN Lacey Pitcher about various aspects of the veterinary profession, including mental health and the visibility of veterinary nurses. Tune in Friday from 7am for insights from her work, reflections and community projects.

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

This week on Vet Vibes, Jessica Woolrich discusses the vital importance of soft skills in veterinary practice, focusing on non-violent communication. Learn how these essential communication techniques can save lives, improve team cohesion, reduce conflict, and boost overall well-being within veterinary teams. Jessica shares practical, authentic advice on implementing non-violent communication both personally and professionally, helping vets foster a healthier, more supportive workplace.

Further resources:

www.vetled.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetled/

https://www.civilitysaveslives.com/

Timestamps:

2:15 – Human factors: what are they and why are they important in practice?

5:40 – Psychological safety

10:53 – Civility in the workplace: why it’s important and how to implement it in practice

17:56 – Non-violent communication

24:15 – Ways to practice and promote non-violent communication at the individual level

32:40 – Incivilities: disrupting teams and work commitment

36:10 – How to practise empathy

41:40 – Human factors in practice – where should I start?

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Curious about improving communication within your team or with clients? Want to express your needs more effectively and understand the global impact of refining these soft skills? Join us this Friday at 7 a.m. for insights and tips. Happy listening!

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

In this episode, RVN Molly Fiander, the Locum expert, extensively discusses all aspects of locum work and how she has addressed its pain points by creating her company, Management for Locums. She shares her personal clinical experiences, financial hardships, and successful debut as an entrepreneur.

Timestamps:

3" - Key factors to ensure a good match between locums and practices
6'20" - The wrong reasons to go locuming
10'10" - An honest look on costs, budget and profits
14' - The added value of a locum
18'40" - How to valorise your work as a Locum
23'10" - Community at the heart of locuming success
26'58" - The hardships and pitfalls of locum life
28'40" - Self worth vs net worth
32'10" - Problem-solving and independence at the core of entrepreneurship
34' - Start-up yes or no?

you can contact Molly following those links below:

- email: [email protected]
-  by phone: 07412225220
- her website: https://www.managementforlocums.com/
- booking a consultation: https://app.usemotion.com/meet/molly-fiander/meeting?d=30

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==