Reviving Vet Med
Reviving Vet Med is a podcast hosted by Dr. Marie Holowaychuk that focuses on the wellbeing of veterinary professionals. It offers practical, evidence-based strategies to help veterinarians and veterinary team members manage stress, prevent burnout, and build sustainable careers. Episodes cover topics such as emotional intelligence, career transitions, team dynamics, compassion, financial wellbeing, and mental health. The show provides tools and perspectives for thriving both professionally and personally, with a global community of veterinary professionals in mind.
Episodes
Rethinking the RVT Role: Top of Scope, Teletriage, and Career Possibility | Episode 102 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailMost RVTs are trained to do far more than they're ever actually asked to do. When technicians are held back from practicing at the top of their license, it's not just their own growth that stalls, it's patient care, team capacity, and the long-term sustainability of the practice itself.In honor of RVT Month and National Vet Tech Week, I'm joined by Leilani Saad,
Financial Conversations That Build Trust and Support Team Wellbeing | Episode 101 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailEvery veterinary team eventually has to have the conversation about cost, and how it's handled can either build trust or break it. Yet financial communication is rarely taught with the same care we give clinical skills, leaving teams to brace for confrontation instead of leading with confidence.Today, I'm joined by Sharon Vaturi, a Credentialed Veterinary Technician with
BONUS: 100 Episodes Later: A Look Back at the Reviving Vet Med podcast | Episode 100 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThis podcast didn't start as a podcast. It started as Wellness Wednesday videos and Facebook Live sessions on veterinary wellbeing; recordings that eventually became audio episodes, then solo monologues, and eventually the guest conversations you've come to know Reviving Vet Med for today.To mark 100 episodes, I'm taking this one to reflect on that journey: how the s
Beyond Retention: Building Engaged Veterinary Teams | Episode 99 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary medicine has spent years asking how we can keep people from leaving—but retention is only part of the story. True workplace wellbeing requires moving beyond preventing turnover and focusing on what helps people feel valued, supported, and engaged in the work they do. When veterinary professionals feel a sense of belonging, purpose, and psychological safety, teams become
The Healing Power of Digital Storytelling | Episode 98 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailEvery veterinary professional carries stories from their journey; moments of challenge, uncertainty, compassion, and growth. Yet we rarely pause to reflect on those stories and the meaning they hold. Digital storytelling offers a powerful way to process our experiences, strengthen resilience, and reconnect with the values that brought us to veterinary medicine.Today, I’m joined by
The Hidden Toll of Workplace Incivility in Vet Med | Episode 97 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIncivility is one of the most pervasive yet minimized challenges in veterinary medicine. Whether it’s a passive-aggressive comment from a colleague or a subtle slight from a stressed client, these "low-level" behaviors are frequently swept under the rug as part of the job. In high-stress practice environments, however, this ambiguity isn’t just annoying—it’s a silent, con
Recognizing and Responding to Microaggressions in Vet Med | Episode 96 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThe relationships we build with clients, colleagues, and students are shaped not only by our medical knowledge, but also by the everyday interactions that influence whether people feel respected, heard, and valued. While many veterinary professionals strive to provide compassionate care, unconscious biases can sometimes show up in ways that create harm, diminish trust, and impact b
Why Feedback Feels So Threatening in Vet Med (and What to Do About It) | Episode 95 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailFeedback is one of the most common parts of veterinary medicine, and also one of the most emotionally loaded. Whether we’re giving it, receiving it, or even anticipating it, these conversations can land in ways that feel tense, personal, or activating. In stressful practice environments, that response isn’t just psychological, it’s physiological.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. B
Breaking the High Achiever’s Loop in Vet Med | Episode 94 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailAs veterinary professionals, we are conditioned to believe that the next surgery, the next certification, or the next "thank you" from a client will finally make us feel successful. But for many of us, that feeling of "enoughness" never arrives. Instead, we find ourselves stuck in the High Achiever’s Loop—a cycle of perfectionism and overworking that leads strai
Moral Distress and Behavioral Euthanasia in Vet Med | Episode 93 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailBehavioral euthanasia is one of the most emotionally complex and least supported aspects of veterinary medicine. It sits at the intersection of medical ethics, human safety, and the human-animal bond, often leaving veterinary teams grappling with moral injury. In this episode, we’re joined by Valerie Bogie, an animal trainer and Veterinary Social Worker, to discuss how we can bette
Comparing Burnout Among General and Emergency Veterinarians | Episode 92 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailBurnout is a universal challenge in veterinary medicine, but does the practice environment change the experience? In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Emily Li, an Emergency and Critical Care specialist based in Melbourne, Australia.Emily’s interest in mental health was forged on the front lines of emergency medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic. Driven by her own lived experience
Why We Need to Talk About Medical Errors in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 91 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailMedical error is one of the most challenging and least discussed realities in veterinary medicine, yet it has profound implications for the mental health and career longevity of the professionals involved. In this episode, Dr. Rochelle Low, veterinarian and Global VP of Quality and Patient Safety at Mars Veterinary Health, joins us to explore why patient safety is actually a vital
BONUS Meditation: Cultivating Equanimity: A Guided Meditation for Veterinary Professionals | Episode 90 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn this bonus episode, Dr. Sonja Olson guides you through a meditation designed to cultivate equanimity and radical acceptance; powerful tools for maintaining emotional balance, compassion, and clarity amidst the challenges of veterinary practice and caregiving roles.This 10-minute meditation offers practical strategies to reduce reactivity, stay grounded in difficult interactions,
Addressing Harassment and Transgressive Behavior in Veterinary Practice | Episode 89 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailPsychological safety is essential in veterinary medicine, yet many professionals report experiencing aggression, bullying, discrimination, or sexual harassment at work.In this episode, Dr. Jolanda Jansen, communications advisor, researcher, and co-owner of St. Anna Advies in the Netherlands, talks about her 2025 study examining harassment and transgressive behavior in Dutch veterin
Neuro-Informed Stress Management for Veterinary Professionals | Episode 88 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailStress is an inevitable part of veterinary medicine, but understanding how our brains respond can transform the way we manage it. In this episode, Dr. Sonja Olson, a veterinary wellness coach, former emergency veterinarian, and certified neuroinformed and mindfulness coach, shares her expertise on neuro-informed stress management.We explore what happens in the brain and nervous sys
Stress Management and Career Fulfillment in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 87 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThriving in veterinary medicine is not just about clinical skill. It also requires managing stress, sustaining energy, and aligning your career with your values. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Amy Grimm, a veterinarian, certified coach, and founder of Burnout-Free Me. Her work empowers high-responsibility professionals to break free from hustle culture and create sustainable su
How Workplace Appreciation Prevents Burnout and Improves Team Culture in Vet Med | Episode 86 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailFeeling seen and valued at work is more than a nice-to-have, it’s essential for preventing burnout and fostering healthy, thriving veterinary teams. Appreciation goes beyond praise; it’s about recognizing contributions, supporting one another, and creating a culture where everyone feels they truly matter.In this episode, I speak with returning guest Jolene Watson, Canada’s Networki
Humble Leadership and Psychological Safety in Veterinary Teams | Episode 85 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailCreating safe, supportive, and high-functioning veterinary teams goes far beyond clinical skill: it starts with leadership, culture, and the everyday interactions that shape how people feel about speaking up, learning, and coping with errors.In this episode, we speak with Dr. Luiz Santos, a veterinary anesthesiologist, educator, and PhD researcher whose work explores humble leaders
Mentorship, Team Empowerment, and Wellbeing in Veterinary Practice | Episode 84 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailStrong mentorship and a culture of support are essential for thriving, sustainable veterinary careers. Beyond clinical skill, how teams grow, learn, and care for one another depends on guidance, connection, and intentional professional development.In this episode, we speak with Alyssa Mages, BS, CVT, co-founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Empowering Veterinary Teams® and Directo
Finding Balance Through Veterinary Wellness Retreats | Episode 83 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn a profession defined by constant care for others, veterinarians often struggle to make time for their own recovery. What if stepping away, even briefly, could be the key to sustaining joy and longevity in practice?In this episode, we speak with Dr. Heather Gunn McQuillan, veterinarian, educator, and founder of Nature Space Resort and Retreat Centre and AwareVet Veterinary Consul
Emotional Intelligence in Early-Career Veterinarians | Episode 82 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailTransitioning from veterinary school to practice is exciting but can also be overwhelming. Early-career veterinarians face challenges navigating client interactions, team dynamics, and the emotional demands of clinical work, which require more than medical knowledge and call for emotional intelligence.In this episode, we speak with Dr. Tipsarp (Minnie) Kittisiam, a veterinarian, ep
Holistic Healing and Wellbeing in Vet Med | Episode 81 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary medicine can be deeply rewarding, but it can also take a toll physically, mentally, and emotionally. Part of the solution may be expanding our idea of care to include ourselves as well as our patients.In this episode, we talk with Dr. Galina Bershteyn, a veterinarian, certified acupuncturist, food therapist, and AVMA Veterinary Wellbeing Educator with more than three dec
Bonus Episode: What It Really Means to Be a Veterinarian | Episode 80 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn this special bonus episode, Dr. Marie Holowaychuk shares her recent conversation with Dr. Andy Roark from the Cone of Shame podcast, diving into the heart of her new book, A Compassionate Calling: What It Really Means to Be a Veterinarian. Together, they explore the emotional realities of veterinary medicine, from perfectionism and burnout to purpose, identity, and rediscovering
Cultivating Compassion in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 79 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailCompassion is at the heart of veterinary medicine, but sustaining it can be tough in the face of long hours, high expectations, and emotionally intense work. While many of us focus on compassion for patients and clients, the missing piece is often self-compassion, which is critical for reducing burnout and building resilience.In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Megan Davis, a vet
Career Transitions and Life Balance in Vet Med | Episode 78 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailFor many veterinary professionals, there comes a moment when the path ahead feels uncertain. Burnout, loss of purpose, or a yearning for change can leave you wondering: Is this still the right fit for me? And if not, what’s next?In this inspiring episode, we speak with Sophie Gilbert, a Veterinary Surgeon, and qualified Executive Coach, who specializes in emotional resilience, care
AI and Wellbeing in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 77 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailArtificial intelligence is rapidly transforming veterinary medicine, from enhancing diagnostics to streamlining workflows. But what does this mean for the wellbeing of veterinary professionals?In this insightful episode, we chat with Dr. Christopher Pinard, veterinary oncologist, CEO and co-founder of ANI.ML Health Inc., and leader in AI innovation for veterinary and comparative on
Financial Wellbeing for Veterinary Technicians | Episode 76 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary technicians and technologists are the backbone of every practice, yet many face financial challenges that can feel overwhelming—especially when living paycheck to paycheck. During National Vet Tech Week and RVT Appreciation Month, we’re shining a light on this often-overlooked aspect of wellbeing: financial health.In this empowering episode, we sit down with Grace Wu Urs
Understanding Personality to Strengthen Veterinary Teams | Episode 75 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary workplaces are fast-paced, emotionally charged, and often stressful—which can lead to misunderstandings, miscommunication, and burnout. But what if there was a way to better understand ourselves and each other, so we could reduce tension and work together more effectively?In this episode, Jolene Watson—RVT, certified Myers-Briggs® practitioner, executive coach, and best-
Changing the Conversation About Suicide in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 74 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailConversations about suicide can be uncomfortable—but they’re essential. In this thoughtful and deeply informative episode, we speak with Dr. Jen Brandt, Director of Member Wellbeing Initiatives at the American Veterinary Medical Association, to talk about suicide prevention, stigma reduction, and building truly supportive workplaces in veterinary medicine.With advanced suicidology
The Power of Critical Incident Debriefing in Vet Med | Episode 73 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary teams are no strangers to trauma—emergency cases, euthanasia, client distress, and internal conflict can all leave an emotional mark. Yet, so often, we rush past these moments without stopping to process them. What if we didn’t have to carry that weight alone?In this essential episode, we speak with Julie Morse Elliott, MPCC Provisional (Master Practitioner in Clinical C
Embracing Conflict: Courageous Conversations in Veterinary Practice | Episode 72 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailConflict is a part of every workplace—but in veterinary medicine, it’s often something we avoid at all costs. In this episode of Reviving Vet Med, Dr. Marie Holowaychuk explores why conflict avoidance is so common among veterinary teams and how it can silently erode trust, collaboration, and even patient care.Through practical strategies and real-life examples, Marie breaks down th
Rethinking Veterinary Identity | Episode 71 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary medicine isn’t just a career—it’s often a core part of who we are. But what happens when the role of “veterinarian” starts to overshadow the rest of our identity? How do we stay connected to ourselves when the profession feels all-consuming?In this reflective episode, Dr. Melodie Chan—longtime veterinarian, industry leader, and mentor—shares her personal journey of navig
BONUS Meditation: Releasing the Weight | Episode 70 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn this calming bonus episode, Dr. Marie Holowaychuk invites you to pause and gently lay down some of the emotional weight you may be carrying—grief, stress, responsibility, or expectations. Whether you're a veterinary professional navigating a difficult season or simply someone feeling the heaviness of the day-to-day, this 8-minute guided meditation offers a safe space to res
Grief and Healing in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 69 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailGrief is a constant presence in veterinary medicine—quiet, cumulative, and often ignored. From euthanasia and patient loss to a co-worker resigning or a colleague moving away, grief takes many forms in the lives of veterinary professionals. But what happens when we don’t acknowledge it?In this thought-provoking episode, we speak with Kira Valentine, Licensed Clinical Social Worker,
Supporting Neurodivergent Veterinary Professionals | Episode 68 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailNeurodiversity remains a largely misunderstood and under-discussed topic in veterinary medicine, despite the profound ways it shapes how professionals experience and engage with their work. In this episode, we speak with Helen Allwood — small animal vet turned coach and trainer — about her journey from veterinary practice to coaching, following a late ADHD diagnosis that transforme
Why Allyship Matters in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 67 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailAllyship isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a necessary practice for creating safe, inclusive, and affirming environments in veterinary medicine. In this episode, we explore what it means to be a true ally to LGBTQIA+ veterinary professionals, especially during Pride Month, but also throughout the year.We unpack the mental health disparities faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals in the professio
Perinatal Mental Health in Vet Med | Episode 66 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailPerinatal mental health is still a taboo topic in many medical professions — including veterinary medicine — despite the very real impact it has on professionals during pregnancy and postpartum. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Emily Singler — veterinarian, mom of four, and author of Pregnancy and Postpartum Considerations for the Veterinary Team — to discuss how mental health ch
Menopause, Trauma & Holistic Healing in Vet Med | Episode 65 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn a profession where high stress and long hours often drown out the signals from our bodies, tuning into those quiet whispers can be a radical act of self-preservation. In this episode, we sit down with Simmi Latulippe—functional medicine consultant, menopause coach, and trauma-informed yoga teacher—to explore the intersection of hormonal health, trauma, and holistic healing in ve
Belonging at Work: How DEI Strengthens Veterinary Teams | Episode 64 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailCreating a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s essential for effective teamwork and sustainable wellbeing. In this episode, Avery Alston, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Veterinary Emergency Group, shares how fostering belonging can transform veterinary workplaces from the inside out.We explore the connectio
How AI-Powered Documentation is Improving Veterinary Wellbeing | Episode 63 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary medical record documentation is a major source of stress — often piling up after hours and impacting both care quality and veterinarian wellbeing. In this episode, Dr. Katie Gallagher, general practice vet and co-founder of Scribenote, shares how her AI-powered scribe tool is helping vets stay present with patients, catch up on records faster, and reclaim personal time.W
The Role of Social Work in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 62 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary professionals often face intense emotional challenges — from navigating difficult euthanasia conversations to managing compassion fatigue and moral distress. But did you know that social workers are increasingly becoming essential allies in these moments? In this episode, we explore the growing field of veterinary social work and how it bridges the gap between human and
Embracing Neurodiversity in Vet Med | Episode 61 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailNeurodivergence in veterinary medicine is more common than you might think — and it brings both incredible strengths and unique challenges. In this episode, we explore what neurodiversity really means, breaking down conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and anxiety-related neurotypes. You’ll learn how these differences shape the way individuals think, communicate, and work — and
Bonus Equanimity Meditation: Finding Balance in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 60 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn this special 60th episode, we invite you to join us for an 8-minute equanimity meditation designed to help veterinary professionals navigate the emotional highs and lows of the profession. This practice will guide you through a series of mindfulness techniques to cultivate steadiness and compassion—both for your patients and for yourself.This meditation will help you ground your
The Emotional Toll of Vet Med: Recognizing Burnout and Compassion Fatigue | Episode 59 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailFeeling drained and disconnected from your work? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into the emotional challenges that many veterinary professionals face: burnout, compassion fatigue, and empathy fatigue. Though often used interchangeably, each of these issues has its own distinct impact on our well-being. We’ll unpack what sets them apart, how to recognize the signs, and w
Dealing with Rude Clients in Veterinary Practice | Episode 58 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailTimed to coincide with Canada’s Pink Shirt Day, we explore a challenge that many veterinary professionals face: managing rude client interactions. These behaviors, though often not personal, can profoundly impact veterinary teams, leading to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and even decisions to leave the profession. By understanding the emotional and financial stressors that fuel cl
Navigating Mental Health Conversations in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 57 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailFrom high rates of depression among veterinary students to significant psychological distress in practice teams, this episode tackles the challenges and importance of mental health conversations in the veterinary profession. Building on the momentum of Bell Let’s Talk Day in Canada, we explore the concerning mental health statistics within veterinary medicine, emphasizing the need
A Holistic Approach to Self-Care | Episode 56 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailWhile bubble baths and spa days are nice, true self-care goes much deeper—it's about prioritizing actions that genuinely support your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. During this episode, we share personal stories and evidence-based insights into why self-care isn’t selfish but essential, especially for caregiving professionals like veterinarians. We also explore the
Digital Wellness for Veterinary Professionals | Episode 55 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailTechnology is deeply integrated into veterinary practice, from managing schedules to engaging with clients and staying connected through social media. However, excessive screen time comes at a cost, impacting mental health, sleep, and work-life balance.In this episode, we explore the importance of digital wellness for veterinary professionals and share practical strategies for crea
Coping with On-Call Responsibilities in Veterinary Practice | Episode 54 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailBeing on-call is a reality that many veterinary professionals face, often bringing long hours, interrupted sleep, and the pressure of urgent decision-making. The unpredictability of being on-call can disrupt personal lives, creating tension between professional responsibilities and the need for rest and recovery. This constant state of readiness can also lead to burnout and impact
How the Big Five Personality Traits Impact the Wellbeing of Veterinary Professionals | Episode 53 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThe Big Five Personality Traits—Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism—are key factors in shaping how individuals think, feel, and behave in different environments. These traits help explain personal differences in how we approach challenges, relationships, and stressors. In high-pressure fields like veterinary medicine, understandin
Setting Boundaries and Saying No in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 52 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn the demanding field of veterinary medicine, establishing clear boundaries and learning to say no are essential skills for fostering resilience and maintaining mental health. Many veterinary professionals struggle with the pressure to take on extra responsibilities, leading to feelings of overwhelm and a sense of losing control. Recognizing the importance of setting limits is cru
ADHD in the Veterinary Profession | Episode 51 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn a high-demand, high-stress field like veterinary medicine, managing ADHD can pose unique challenges. From struggling with focus, time management, and organization to dealing with emotional dysregulation, ADHD can impact both personal and professional lives. ADHD, often associated with children, frequently goes undiagnosed in adults, even in high-functioning individuals. In this
BONUS Meditation: A Midday Reset: 5-Minute Meditation for Veterinary Professionals | Episode 50 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIn this special 50th bonus episode, we’re offering you a moment to pause, breathe, and reset with a brief 5-minute meditation. Designed for busy veterinary professionals, this short meditation can be used anytime during your workday to help you ground yourself, release tension, and refocus. Whether you're in your car, breakroom, or office, take this opportunity to reconnect wi
New Perspectives on Veterinary Burnout | Episode 49 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailRecent veterinary research reveals that as many as 50% of veterinary team members may be experiencing burnout. Tackling burnout in the veterinary profession requires a deeper understanding of its complexities. In this episode, we explore innovative ways to measure and address burnout, drawing on recent research and insights from Dr. Andria Jones, a researcher at the Ontario Veterin
Resources for Supporting Veterinary Teams Through Suicide | Episode 48 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailAddressing mental health challenges within the veterinary profession requires a proactive approach, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like suicide. In this episode, we explore crucial resources designed to support veterinary team members and enhance their wellbeing during the most difficult times.We’ll dive into the AVMA’s After a Suicide documents and Suicide Prevention
Transforming Veterinary Work Environments the Psychological Health and Safety Guidelines | Episode 47 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailPsychological health and safety is a buzz phrase that is picking up traction when it comes to taking steps to create healthier, safer, and more supportive work environments. In this episode, we delve into the Veterinary Visionaries™ initiative, a groundbreaking collaboration launched in 2022 by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), which brought together nearly 50 veteri
Coping with Mistakes in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 46 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailMistakes are an inevitable part of veterinary practice, and if you’ve been in the field for any length of time, chances are you’ve made one. In this episode, we delve into the various types of mistakes that can occur, from minor errors like miscalculating a drug dose to more serious ones that may have significant consequences. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insi
Unmasking Imposter Syndrome Among Veterinary Professionals | Episode 45 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailHave you ever experienced feeling that you have somehow fooled everyone else around you into thinking you are smarter or more capable than you really are? Research demonstrates that just over two-thirds of veterinarians experience imposter syndrome, which is more common among female veterinarians and those in practice for less than 5 years. Imposter syndrome can be an excruciating
Compassionate Communication Strategies for Team Wellbeing | Episode 44 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThe ways in which veterinary teams communicate can have a tremendous impact on their wellbeing. Research demonstrates that team members that work within an environment with effective communication have lower burnout scores and higher levels of job satisfaction compared to those who work in an environment with ineffective communication. Likewise, candid and open communication among
Navigating Work-Life Balance in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 43 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailWork-life balance is the ever-talked-about-but-seemingly-elusive concept that we all appear to be striving for but without knowing how to actually get it. It is cited as one of the top stressors impacting veterinarians and, for many veterinary team members, is one of the top reasons for feeling dissatisfied with work. In this episode, we debunk misconceptions about work-life balanc
Strategies for Reducing Holiday-Related Stress | Episode 42 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThe holidays are here and while this time of year is exciting and energizing for many people, it can be exhausting and illness-provoking for others. According to the American Psychological Association, more than one-third of people surveyed during the holidays report an increase in their stress level due to time constraints, financial concerns, commercialism, the pressures of gift-
Coping with Stress as Veterinary Professionals | Episode 41 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailStress, an inherent part of the veterinary profession, and one of the leading concerns among surveyed veterinary teams, can manifest both as eustress, beneficial for personal growth, and distress, leading to chronic exhaustion and overwhelming emotions. Research shows that veterinary professionals who have healthy strategies for coping with stress, are much less likely to experienc
BONUS Episode: Recognizing and Addressing Toxic Workplace Culture with Dr. Marie Holowaychuk | Episode 40 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailToxic behaviors have deep-seated impacts on our wellbeing in veterinary medicine. Systematic changes, clear expectations, workload balancing, and candid communication are crucial to crafting a productive and safer work environment. In this bonus episode, I am interviewed by Dr. Stacey Cordivano, equine practitioner and host of The Whole Veterinarian podcast. During the episode, we
Identifying Unhealthy Boundaries in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 39 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailIf you have ever given your cell number to a client when you didn’t want to, covered a shift for a team member when you felt exhausted and overwhelmed, or said yes to a neighbor who asked you for a work-related favor on your day off, then you are not alone. Unhealthy boundaries are common among veterinary team members and not only impact our relationships with others, but set us up
BONUS Episode: Dr. Marie Holowaychuk on how a childhood plan took a left turn and led to her passion for mental wellness | Episode 38 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailHas your life ended up the way you expected it would? Are you happy with your current work in veterinary medicine or does it no longer feel like the right fit? In this bonus episode, I am interviewed byJordan Banshea, VIN Foundation Executive Director and host of the Veterinary Pulse podcast. We recap my journey in veterinary medicine including how I believed I would always work in
Strategies for Supporting Mental Health at Work | Episode 37 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailResearch demonstrates that Canadian veterinarians are more likely to experience mental health problems compared to the general population. Likewise, studies show that veterinary teams in the USA are experiencing rising rates of psychological distress, especially among young veterinarians and veterinary support team members. In this episode and in honor of Mental Health Awareness
BONUS Episode: Workaholic to Wellbeing in Veterinary Medicine | Episode 36 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailDo you ever feel like you’re on a hamster wheel that you cannot get off of? Have you been a “workaholic” since your pre-veterinary school years and can’t seem to break the habit? Do you feel like a “fake” or a “fraud” when it comes to your aptitude or abilities as a veterinary care provider?In this bonus episode, I am interviewed by Dr. Megan Sprinkle, host of the Vet Life Reimagin
What Do You Do If Your Workplace Is Toxic? | Episode 35 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailFocus group research has helped to identify what companion animal team members consider behaviors, attitudes, or situations that are prevalent in a toxic environment. While studies have shown that those who work in a toxic environment have higher burnout scores and lower job satisfaction, the good news is that there are ways to shift the culture and make the situation better. In th
How Do You Know If Your Workplace Is Toxic? | Episode 34 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailStudies demonstrate that team members working in a companion animal practice that is perceived to be toxic have higher burnout scores and lower job satisfaction. With the short-staffing issues and attrition we are experiencing in veterinary medicine right now, a toxic environment is not something anyone wants. The question remains, how do you know if your workplace is toxic? In tod
BONUS Episode: If I Had Known Then | Episode 33 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailHow often do you look back at your life and think to yourself “If I had known then what I know now…”? In the context of mental health and wellbeing, this comes up often for me, in wishing that I had tools and strategies for burnout detection and management, as well as self-care and mental wellness early in my career. In today’s bonus episode, I am interviewed by Drs. Marci Kirk and
Bullying in Veterinary Workplaces | Episode 32 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailSurveys demonstrate that approximately 50% of veterinary team members have experienced sustained harassment in the workplace. Workplace bullying is a rarely discussed but incredibly important problem in veterinary medicine and something that veterinary leaders, practice managers, and team members must take steps to mitigate or prevent. In today’s episode, we review the definition o
Is it Burnout or Depression? | Episode 31 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailResearch reveals that veterinarians experience depression more often compared to the average person, and that burnout is affecting between one-third to one-half of veterinary team members. Because there is significant overlap between symptoms of depression and burnout, yet differences in how they are managed or treated, it is important to better understand them. In today’s episode
BONUS Meditation: Giving Yourself the Gift of Self-Compassion | Episode 30 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailVeterinary team members, like all humans, are prone to making mistakes. This can be difficult to accept when the intention is to help, not harm, which can lead veterinary professionals to be self-critical when mistakes happen. Research demonstrates that veterinary students and healthcare providers who practice self-compassion are more resilient and able to bounce back from difficul
How to Inspire Wellbeing in Others | Episode 29 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailGiven the high rates of psychological distress and burnout in veterinary medicine, many veterinary team members are considering education and advocacy in the context of wellbeing. Questions asked regularly are “How can I become a wellbeing advocate?” and “How can I get my team members to take better care of themselves?”. These incredibly important questions are great launching poin
Alternative Approaches to New Year’s Resolutions | Episode 28 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan Mail If you’re like most people, then you probably resolve to change a habit or establish a novel habit when the New Year rolls around. Statistically speaking, more than one-third of people set a New Year’s resolution. Yet > 80% of those resolutions will have failed by mid-February. The good news is that if you enjoy the idea of using the New Year as a clean slate for introducing he
Can Perfectionism Lead to Burnout? | Episode 27 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThere is no doubt that perfectionism can wreak havoc on our mental health and wellbeing. In fact, research demonstrates that veterinarians who experience perfectionism are more susceptible to distress during triggering stressful events. Likewise, physicians with self-oriented perfectionism are more likely to experience symptoms of burnout in the form of emotional exhaustion. Becaus
How Telehealth can Improve Veterinary Team Wellbeing | Episode 26 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailDuring the last several years, veterinary medicine has experienced an increase in demand for veterinary care, as well as an increase in attrition of team members and a shortage of available team members to fill those vacant spots. As such, most veterinary practices are routinely functioning with a staffing deficit while tending to a higher than usual caseload. These circumstances h
Prioritizing Sleep for Mental Health and Wellbeing | Episode 25 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailRecent research highlights the importance of getting enough sleep whereby adults who sleep less than 6-7 hours per day have a higher risk of chronic illness. Despite knowing the importance of sleep quantity and quality, one-third of adults experience insomnia. Daily stressors, technology, and other factors can also impact a person’s duration and level of sleep. In this episode
Promoting Mental Wellness with the Healthy Mind Platter | Episode 24 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailThe food guide plate or Healthy Eating Platter was introduced more than 10 years ago to demonstrate visually what we should be eating to maintain a healthy body. Since then, neuropsychiatry expert Dr. Daniel Siegel partnered with his colleague and friend Dr. David Rock to share what is referred to as the Healthy Mind Platter. This collection of activities is designed to promote neu
Seven Strategies for Preventing Procrastination | Episode 23 | Reviving Vet Med
Send us Fan MailProcrastination is something that many of us struggle with, especially for those who identify as perfectionists. Procrastination can happen at work when we are low on energy or dreading a particularly difficult task, but it can also happen at home when tasks feel overwhelming or distractions are getting in the way of productivity. In this episode, I discuss some of the causes of
