Episodes

Ever had a case where you just knew what was wrong before you even touched the patient - but if someone asked you HOW you know, you couldn’t explain it? That almost mystical “sixth sense” we develop in practice - that’s exactly what this episode is about. Our guest is Dr Annie Wayne - a criticalist, educator, and learning strategist—who’s been exploring naturalistic decision making: the cognitive model that explains how experts think in real-time, and how to pass that intuition on. We t...

Thinking of trading grey skies for the Australian sun – stethoscope in hand? Moving to Australia as a vet can change your life, but here’s the truth: it’s not a straight road. Between visa hurdles, the dreaded AVE exams, and adjusting to a new culture (gotta love the Aussie slang!), the journey demands grit, strategy, and support. In this episode, we talk to Dr. Natalia Gomez , Colombian-born vet and co-founder of Brainy Bilby, a platform dedicated to helping foreign-trained vets prepare for ...

In this episode of the Vet Vault, Hubert Hiemstra chats with Dr Caleb Frankel—emergency veterinarian and founder of the practice management software Instinct—about the chronic frustrations with veterinary software, and how these tech problems mirror deeper issues in veterinary practice. The conversation kicks off with the idea that small changes in infrastructure can make a significant difference to culture and performance in veterinary teams. Caleb shares his journey from aspiring internal medicine specialist to reluctant but passionate software entrepreneur, driven by his early frustration with inefficient, outdated PIMS (Practice Information Management Systems). Hugh asks why good veterinary software is so uniquely difficult to build, and we get pro tips on how to make decisions when you're shopping for new software and how to effectively integrate new tech in your practice. Beyond PIMS, they dive into the role of tech—especially AI—in addressing bigger challenges like mental heal…

I’m never excited when I diagnose a cat with anaemia: vague signs, confusing diagnostics, and what feels like a not-so-great prognoses. But are they really that hopeless? In this episode, feline medicine specialist Dr Rachel Korman joins us demystify the anaemic cat and offer a clear, practical diagnostic framework that will give you more confidence and better outcomes the next time you see a cat with a low PCV. Some highlights from this conversation: A step-by-step approach to categor...

🎙️ Introducing the Veterinary Business Accelerator, our new podcast for veterinary practice owners who want more than just survival - they want to own the practice they dreamed of when they first decided to start a practice - a place that gives them joy and freedom, and where other vets like to work. In this brand-new series, vet business coach, author, and former Vet Vault guest Dr. Sam Bowden shares the mindset, strategies, and systems he’s used to help hundreds of practice owners transform...

We get into one of the most emotionally charged aspects of veterinary work—talking to clients about money. Dr. Bing Zhu, a specialist in small animal internal medicine at SASH, brings a refreshing, deeply empathetic, and logical perspective to the table. With extensive experience navigating complex cases and large treatment estimates, Bing offers a framework for communicating cost transparently and ethically, without carrying the emotional burden. Dr. Zhu discusses her evolution from guilt-laden money conversations to clarity and detachment, crediting a pivotal mindset shift taught by a mentor: "It’s not you ordering the tests—it’s the patient who needs them." The episode explores how this reframe can reduce emotional stress, improve client trust, and lead to better outcomes. She also offers insight into setting expectations, handling ambiguity, discussing diagnostics versus empirical treatments, and setting professional boundaries to maintain mental health. This conversation isn’t …

In this episode answer all your questions about veterinary telemedicine with Dr. Shadi Ireifej, board-certified surgeon and co-founder of VetTriage, a global tele-triage platform. The discussion addresses both veterinary professionals curious about a career in telehealth and practice owners considering telemedicine integration. The conversation addresses common concerns, like fear of inadequate knowledge, potential legal risks, and the assumption that telemedicine could be unfulfilling or monotonous. Dr. Ireifej gives insights into who a career in telemedicine would appeal to, and why the model allows for part-time work alongside brick-and-mortar practice, providing a balance that can help retain staff. For practice owners, Dr. Ireifej highlights telemedicine's potential as a powerful recruitment and retention tool, with many young vets valuing the flexibility it offers. He also explores future trends, including telediagnostics and emerging technologies like thermal imaging monitor…

In this solo episode Hugh tackles a bold idea: if you're not currently using AI in your clinical veterinary work, you may be falling behind. And if/when artificial intelligence gets to the point where it reliably has access to all the most up to date information for managing your patients, will you be negligent if you DON’T use it? Hubert shares how artificial intelligence is quietly but powerfully reshaping veterinary practice. He paints a vivid picture of an AI-powered clinic, shows you practi...

We take on one of the most requested and sensitive topics among veterinary professionals: the tension between clinical care and the financial pressures of practice. Joined by Dr. Brennen McKenzie—known as the SkeptVet—an advocate for evidence-based medicine and a practicing small animal vet with over two decades of experience, they explore the often uncomfortable intersection of profit, ethics, and good clinical decision-making. Brennen shares personal stories from his career, from early experiences in business-driven practices to working in a large, ethically-minded hospital. Together, Hubert and Brennen dissect concepts like spectrum of care, overdiagnosis, cognitive biases in decision-making, and how corporate ownership models are shifting practice culture. They also discuss why critical thinking, clear client communication, and evidence-supported approaches are essential to maintaining both professional integrity and client trust. The conversation delves into the real-world chal…

In this Vet Vault episode, we are joined by renowned productivity expert David Allen, creator of the "Getting Things Done" (GTD) methodology. Rather than focusing on traditional notions of productivity—doing more in less time for profit—this conversation explores a deeper, more mindful goal: achieving clarity and presence in a high-pressure clinical environment. David outlines how GTD principles can help veterinarians navigate the cognitive overload that stems from the unpredictable nature of vet practice, including constant interruptions, heavy caseloads, and incomplete mental loops. The discussion moves from the conceptual (the value of a “mind like water”) to the highly practical, such as how to effectively capture, clarify, and organise tasks during a typical chaotic shift. David also shares insights on managing interruptions, structuring team rounds for better flow, and creating trusted systems to reduce mental clutter. With special attention to the veterinary profession’s uniqu…

In this episode, Dr. Matt Booth—ER Practice Development Lead at Ethos Veterinary Health—reveals a little-known truth: the AVMA doesn’t actually require a residency to become a specialist. We dig into why the traditional residency path dominates the conversation (despite its huge drawbacks) and explore the alternative routes most vets have never heard of. Dr. Booth breaks down how Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organizations (RVSOs) operate and shines a spotlight on the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners (ABVP)and its alternative specialisation options, like the hybrid credentialing pathway—a flexible, financially viable alternative that lets you level up without putting life on hold. Whether you're feeling boxed in by outdated systems, stuck in your career, or simply craving new ways to grow in vet med, this episode is a must-listen. 🌏 No matter where you practice, these non-traditional paths could change everything. 🎧 Press play and challenge what you thought you knew a…

In this episode, we break down a groundbreaking survey on ER vet retention—uncovering the biggest reasons professionals leave the field and, more importantly, how to keep them. Our guest, Dr. Matt Booth, reveals the “Five Buckets” that determine whether an ER vet stays or quits: ✅ Leadership(the #1 predictor of retention!) ✅ Schedule flexibility (is a 4-day workweek the answer?) ✅ Professional growth (including alternative board certification paths) ✅ Work culture (how toxic environments drive burnout) ✅ Medical support (not as straightforward as it sound! ) You'll also learn: 🔹 The surprising link between gender disparities and retention. 🔹 How to value your vets beyond what they're billing. 🔹 How mentorship can make or break a hospital’s team If you’re an ER vet, manager, or industry leader—this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for real solutions to keep veterinary professionals happy, supported, and thriving in their careers.

Cracking the code on effective studying isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. In this episode, Dr. Matt shares how he ditched ineffective study habits like highlighting and endless rereading and replaced them with evidence-based techniques that skyrocketed his success in his ECC membership exams. We break down the science behind active recall, spaced repetition, and practice testing—proven methods that help veterinary professionals retain complex information longer and perform better on exams. You’ll learn how to craft personalised study questions, hear which tech tools can expedite you learning, and strike the perfect balance between intense preparation and self-care. Whether you’re just starting vet school or wrestling with your specialist exams, this episode delivers practical, research-backed strategies to boost your learning efficiency and avoid burnout.

In this episode, we delve deep into the concept of moral injury, a profound emotional burden that arises when external constraints prevent professionals from acting in line with their ethical standards. Starting with real-world examples, we distinguish moral injury from trauma and burnout by spotlighting its unique focus on ethical dissonance. For veterinarians, this might look like the heart-wrenching decisions around economic euthanasia, navigating systemic barriers, or managing client noncompliance—all scenarios that leave professionals feeling conflicted and powerless. Here’s what you’ll gain: Clarity: Understand how moral injury differs from burnout and compassion fatigue, and why this distinction matters. Strategies: Discover actionable steps to address moral injury, including fostering open communication, building supportive communities, and implementing targeted interventions. Empathy and Connection: Learn how vulnerability and shared experiences can help mitigate the lon…

The podcast episode discusses the challenges and realities faced by veterinarians in their professional environments, focusing on toxic workplace cultures, undervalued employees, and the importance of team development. The speakers share personal experiences of dealing with unethical practices, disconnection from leadership, and the negative impact of profit-driven metrics on veterinary medicine. They emphasize that workplace dissatisfaction often stems not from overt hostility but from subtle signals of being ignored or undervalued. Solutions discussed include fostering communication, investing in team development, and creating pathways for employee growth. The conversation also explores how prioritizing team well-being leads to better financial and reputational outcomes for veterinary practices. Through case studies, the speakers highlight the repercussions of neglecting team dynamics, such as high turnover and reduced morale, and advocate for a proactive, people-centered approach t…

Get the show notes for this episode, plus a very neat treatment guide for hyperkalaemia, ⁠here.⁠ Join our community of Vet Vault Nerds to lift your clinical game and get your groove back with our up-to-date, easy-to-consume clinical episodes at https://hi.switchy.io/podpage-vvn. Get help with your tricky cases in our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Specialist Support Space.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Subscribe to our weekly newsletter⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠for Hubert's favourite clinical and non-clinical learnings from the wee...

This discussion highlights the challenges and societal implications of menopause, particularly around access to care and workplace dynamics. It emphasizes the need for individualized approaches to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), addressing risks for women starting late. The session explores the role of fluctuating hormones in symptoms, genetic predispositions, and the mental health risks tied to menopause. Workplace stigma, such as fear of judgment for symptoms like hot flashes, impacts retention and performance, underscoring the importance of leadership-driven dialogue and support systems. Solutions include training healthcare providers, leveraging technology for accessible care, and promoting menopause-friendly workplace policies as part of diversity and inclusion efforts to reduce stigma and provide holistic support.

In this episode, Dr. Paul Harrison, a leading expert in consumer behavior, shares insights into the challenges veterinarians face when discussing pricing and money with clients. Drawing from his research in consumer psychology and his work with businesses across various sectors, Dr. Harrison explores why many veterinarians feel uncomfortable addressing costs, despite the importance of transparency in pricing. He explains that this discomfort stems from a clash between the caring nature of veterinary professionals and the necessity of running a profitable business. The discussion touches on the tension between community service and corporate practices, highlighting how shifting towards a more business-oriented mindset can create friction with clients. Dr. Harrison also emphasizes the importance of empathy, acknowledging that both veterinarians and clients often feel uneasy about money discussions. He concludes by encouraging vets to rethink the conventional pursuit of constant growth a…

Veterinary coach Dr. Jessica Moore-Jones unpacks workplace dynamics, generational differences in resilience, and how veterinarians can redefine their career satisfaction. Dr Jess challenges the dichotomy of ‘younger vs. older’ vets, exploring the evolving expectations of work-life balance and the need for flexibility in professional boundaries. Key topics include identifying when resilience turns toxic, balancing short-term sacrifices with long-term career fulfillment, and avoiding the traps of burnout and quiet quitting. We share practical advice for managing boundaries, fostering empathy among team members, and making intentional choices to maintain personal well-being and professional engagement. Dr. Jones also emphasises the importance of self-awareness, recognising agency in challenging situations, and adapting to a rapidly changing industry.

In this episode, we explore the highs and challenges of working in emergency and critical care (ECC) veterinary medicine. The discussion covers the adrenaline-fueled appeal of ECC, the personality types that thrive in the fast-paced, unpredictable environment, and strategies to sustain a long-term career in this demanding field. Insights include building efficient workflows, prioritizing self-care, managing shift work's health impacts, and cultivating joy and gratitude in daily practice. Brooke and Talita share their personal journeys, offering practical advice on creating sustainable routines and balancing professional satisfaction with well-being. Whether you're considering a career in ECC or seeking strategies to thrive in it, this episode provides valuable perspectives and actionable tips.

Psychologist Rhonda Andrews shares insights on improving workplace culture, leadership, and mental health in the veterinary profession. Reflecting on her years working with veterinary teams, she highlights the profession’s strengths, such as innovation, compassion-driven problem-solving, and a willingness to learn. She also addresses challenges like transitioning from small family-owned practices to larger corporate structures, managing human interactions alongside clinical duties, and mitigating risks related to governance and staff wellbeing. The discussion delves into actionable solutions, including enhancing communication, delegating tasks effectively, fostering trusted networks, and creating tailored workplace cultures. Practical examples illustrate how addressing these challenges can reduce burnout, increase team cohesion, and improve outcomes for both clients and veterinary professionals.

Hands up if you still remember much of the statistics you learned back in vet school… Some of us have looked at way more P nappies than p-values since our student days! But this is veterinary SCIENCE after all, and part of science is reading the occasional paper. Reading papers—beyond just the abstract and the conclusions—and with at least a little bit of discernment, does involve some degree of understanding statistics, just to make sure you’re not being misled. So, in this episode,...

Explore the untold stories and transformative lessons of veterinary practice ownership in this episode. Hear firsthand accounts from both new and experienced clinic owners as they share: *Why They Took the Leap: Personal motivations behind transitioning from employee to owner. *Emotional Challenges: How they navigated fear, self-doubt, and the emotional rollercoaster of leadership. *Practical Strategies: Proven methods for maintaining personal and professional boundaries, fostering client relationships, and building team dynamics. *Financial Realities: Debunking funding myths and unlocking insights into working with specialized veterinary lenders. *Innovative Leadership Models: Discover the emerging trend of co-ownership with veterinary nurses—an inclusive approach that redefines practice culture. This episode isn’t just about owning a clinic; it’s about rediscovering joy, confidence, and adaptability in veterinary work. Tune in to learn how to sustain passion for your caree…

What do veterinary teams have to do with the Avengers?! Discover how to transform challenges into opportunities and foster a culture of motivation and psychological safety across your entire team—from frontline staff to managers. Here’s what you’ll gain: Practical strategies to set team goals tailored to unique needs. Insights on how to frame constructive feedback with empathy. Proven techniques to involve team members in decisions, ensuring alignment with organizational values. But that's not all. We discuss the critical (and often underrated) role of training managers in identifying gaps in skills and emotional well-being, equipping them to better support team growth. Plus, we tackle the art of balancing personal and professional well-being, navigating difficult conversations, and embracing feedback as a catalyst for success. If leading your practice feels like assembling a team of superheroes, this discussion is your ultimate playbook.