The 'So You're A Vet... Now What?' Podcast With Dr Moriah McCauley

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of "So You're a Vet… Now What?" Dr. Moriah McCauley continues her conversation with Dr. Molly Brinkmann about addressing the cost of veterinary care. They discuss responding to client questions about pricing and navigating social media discussions on the topic. Tune in for practical insights on handling these important conversations in the veterinary profession.
Dr. Molly highlighted the importance of transparent conversations around the value behind the cost to clients. By providing a rationale for the expenses incurred, such as the expertise, equipment, and resources required for veterinary care, clients can better comprehend why certain procedures may be costly. This approach helps bridge the gap between the financial aspect of care and the value it brings to the health and well-being of their pets.
The podcast also delved into the concept of clinical empathy in financial discussions with clients. Dr. Mariah stressed the need for veterinarians to use language that conveys they are on the same team as the client, working together to provide the best care for the pet. By approaching financial conversations with empathy and understanding, veterinarians can help alleviate any potential tension or discomfort that clients may feel when discussing costs.
Dr. Molly emphasises the importance of acknowledging the significant cost of veterinary care and explaining the value behind it to clients. By fostering open dialogue, providing transparent information, and demonstrating empathy in financial discussions, veterinarians can build stronger relationships with their clients and ensure that the cost of care is understood and appreciated in the context of the value it brings to their beloved pets.
Episode Outline
[00:02:01] Responding to criticisms in veterinary medicine.
[00:05:31] The cost of veterinary medicine.
[00:09:56] Responding to online negativity.
[00:13:28] Veterinary Costs Discussion.
[00:15:28] Discussing veterinary cost concerns.
[00:21:33] Acknowledging the cost of care.
[00:24:48] Importance of veterinary professionals.
Episode Links
Connect with Dr. Molly Brinkmann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-brinkmann-5331bb188
Mentioned in this episode:
So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course
Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills.

These are skills like client communication, so you have great relationships with clients. Emotional intelligence, so you've got great relationships with your teammates. Effective negotiation skills, so you can get paid what you are worth. Management of imposter syndrome, so you can have confidence in your abilities. And, how to build formidable resilience, so you can handle everything that comes your way.

These are not just skills. They are prerequisites vital for success and financial and emotional wellbeing.

This course serves as an essential stepping stone to your success. Dr. Dave will be your mentor as you go through 12-modules, helping you transition from being a student to a fully rounded veterinary professional.

Visit www.drdavenicol.com/syav-class to learn more.

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of "So You're a Vet… Now What?" Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Molly Brinkmann, as they discuss the current cost of veterinary health care, sparked by a recent controversial TikTok video. They delve into the implications of the video, the broader issue of rising veterinary care costs, and how the profession should address these challenges. 
Dr. Molly Brinkmann and Dr. Moriah McCauley stress the need for transparency in discussing veterinary service pricing, pointing out the complexities unique to veterinary medicine compared to human medicine. They discuss differences in lab work handling and the logistical challenges of providing care to animals.
Dr. Molly explains the difficulties faced by veterinary practices in balancing staff salaries, equipment maintenance, and quality care while keeping services affordable. She attributes the recent cost increase in veterinary medicine to industry corporatization, leading to financial restructuring within practices.
The key takeaway is that responding to criticism should involve constructive dialogue rather than attacking individuals. By engaging in positive conversations and working towards positive change, veterinarians can address concerns, educate the public, and strive to make veterinary care more accessible and affordable for all pet owners.
Episode Outline
[00:01:24] The cost of veterinary health care.
[00:07:32] Response to criticism.
[00:09:36] Veterinary healthcare costs and dialogue.
[00:14:16] Pet healthcare spending statistics.
[00:16:34] Rising costs in veterinary medicine.
[00:22:02] Veterinary medicine affordability and access.
[00:22:48] Supporting early stage vets.

Episode Links
Connect with Dr. Molly Brinkmann on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-brinkmann-5331bb188
Mentioned in this episode:
So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course
Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills.

These are skills like client communication, so you have great relationships with clients. Emotional intelligence, so you've got great relationships with your teammates. Effective negotiation skills, so you can get paid what you are worth. Management of imposter syndrome, so you can have confidence in your abilities. And, how to build formidable resilience, so you can handle everything that comes your way.

These are not just skills. They are prerequisites vital for success and financial and emotional wellbeing.

This course serves as an essential stepping stone to your success. Dr. Dave will be your mentor as you go through 12-modules, helping you transition from being a student to a fully rounded veterinary professional.

Visit www.drdavenicol.com/syav-class to learn more.

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of "So You're a Vet… Now What?" Dr. Moriah McCauley and Dr. Addie Reinhard discuss handling decision fatigue and moral stress in veterinary practice to avoid burnout. They share practical steps to improve workflow and reduce the risk of burnout for new grad vets. Tune in for insights and inspiration from these passionate mentors in the field of veterinary medicine.
Burnout signs can manifest in various ways, such as feeling exhausted, cynical, or that your work doesn't matter. These signs are crucial indicators that should not be ignored, as they can lead to serious consequences if left unaddressed. Dr. Addie Reinhard emphasizes the importance of recognizing these signs early on to prevent burnout from escalating.
By focusing on effective time management, delegation of tasks, and confident decision-making, new grads can navigate the challenges of veterinary practice more efficiently and reduce the risk of burnout.
Dr. Addie shares her experience of realizing that perfectionism, which served her well in getting through vet school, was not serving her as a new grad. Dr. Addie shares how overcoming perfectionism is crucial in embracing imperfections and learning from mistakes.
For new grad vets, being flexible, seeking support, and overcoming perfectionism are essential aspects for success and well-being in the veterinary profession. By embracing these principles, veterinarians can navigate challenges, build resilience, and thrive in their careers while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Episode Outline
[00:02:13] Burning the Sandwich: Tomato soup story.
[00:03:48] Ways to prevent veterinary burnout.
[00:08:16] Time management for new grads.
[00:10:52] Setting a hospital routine.
[00:16:44] Delegation as a new grad.
[00:17:25] Learning to delegate effectively.
[00:22:19] Recognizing signs of burnout.
[00:25:37] Avoiding future burnout as a veterinarian.
[00:28:15] Embracing imperfection in veterinary practice.
Episode Links
Check out MentorVet: https://www.mentorvet.net/
Connect with Addie Reinhard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/addiereinhard/
Mentioned in this episode:
So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course
Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills.

These are skills like client communication, so you have great relationships with clients. Emotional intelligence, so you've got great relationships with your teammates. Effective negotiation skills, so you can get paid what you are worth. Management of imposter syndrome, so you can have confidence in your abilities. And, how to build formidable resilience, so you can handle everything that comes your way.

These are not just skills. They are prerequisites vital for success and financial and emotional wellbeing.

This course serves as an essential stepping stone to your success. Dr. Dave will be your mentor as you go through 12-modules, helping you transition from being a student to a fully rounded veterinary professional.

Visit www.drdavenicol.com/syav-class to learn more.

Episode Description
In this episode of "So You're a Vet… Now What?" host Dr. Moriah McCauley continues her conversation with Garth Robillard about the fears and challenges faced by veterinary students. They discuss the vulnerability and growth that comes with acknowledging fears of burnout, financial constraints, and dealing with clients. The episode explores whether these fears stem from academia or the general veterinary profession, offering valuable insights for aspiring and current veterinarians navigating their career paths.
Garth discusses the fear and anxiety experienced by many veterinary students as they approach graduation, including concerns about burnout, difficult clients, and financial constraints. Despite these challenges, he encourages students to acknowledge their fears and vulnerabilities, as these experiences can lead to personal growth and resilience.
The conversation between Moriah and Garth also delves into the evolving culture within veterinary schools. They discuss the importance of creating a supportive and collaborative environment where students can learn from each other and work together. Garth highlights the benefits of problem-based learning (PBL) in fostering teamwork and communication skills among students. By collaborating to solve problems, students can deepen their understanding of veterinary medicine and gain insights from different perspectives.
Looking ahead to the future, Garth expresses his excitement for the opportunities and challenges in his veterinary career. He emphasizes the importance of finding meaningful mentorship and being open to learning from others. Garth's goal is to be a catalyst for positive change in veterinary medicine and contribute positively to the profession.
Overall, the episode underscores the significance of embracing vulnerability, learning from mistakes, and fostering a culture of collaboration and growth in veterinary medicine. By recognizing weaknesses, seeking mentorship, and working together with peers, veterinary professionals can continue to evolve and thrive in their careers.
Episode Outline
[00:01:23] Fear of graduating veterinary school.
[00:06:00] Encouraging positivity in the veterinary profession.
[00:08:49] Overcoming professional challenges.
[00:12:57] Vet school culture trends upward.
[00:14:23] Veterinary student dynamics changing.
[00:16:39] Veterinary school culture and teamwork.
[00:21:38] Changing veterinary profession dynamics.
[00:25:34] Emotional growth and development.
[00:27:27] Changing veterinary medicine landscape.
Episode Links
Listen to Garth’s podcast ‘Veterinary Vibes’: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/veterinary-vibes/
Connect with Garth Robillard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garth-robillard-23516a174
Follow the Veterinary Vibes podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/VeterinaryVibes
Discover more from Garth Robillard: https://linktr.ee/veterinaryvibespodcast
Mentioned in this episode:
So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course
Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills.

These are skills like client

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of "So You're a Vet... Now What?" host Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Garth Robillard, a second-year vet student and host of the Veterinary Vibes podcast. Together they discussed the significance of mentorship in bridging the gap between academia and real-world practice. Garth highlights that mentorship is often overlooked in veterinary school curriculums, requiring students to actively seek out mentorship opportunities to enhance their learning and professional development.
Garth discussed the challenges students encounter in finding mentors and the disconnect between academic teachings and practical application. He stressed the need for mentorship to be a formalized part of the curriculum, akin to subjects like anatomy and physiology. By incorporating mentorship into the educational framework, students can gain valuable insights, guidance, and support from experienced professionals in the field.
The conversation also delved into the value of informal mentorship, where students can seek advice and support from various sources, including peers, family members, and social media platforms like Vetstagram. This informal mentorship can provide students with diverse perspectives and help them navigate the complexities of veterinary medicine.
Furthermore, the discussion underscored the importance of academia adapting to the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine. While traditional teachings provide a foundational knowledge base, real-life experiences and mentorship play a crucial role in applying that knowledge in practical settings. By integrating mentorship into the curriculum, students can develop a well-rounded skill set that combines theoretical knowledge with practical expertise.
In conclusion, mentorship should be acknowledged as a fundamental component of veterinary education. By fostering mentorship relationships and creating opportunities for students to learn from experienced professionals, veterinary schools can better prepare future veterinarians for the challenges and opportunities in the field. Mentorship not only enhances clinical skills but also cultivates a supportive network that promotes growth, learning, and success in the veterinary profession.
Stay tuned for part two of their conversation next week!
Episode Outline
[00:01:16] Mentorship in veterinary academia.
[00:03:42] Building connections through podcasting.
[00:09:33] Balancing podcasting with life commitments.
[00:11:23] Time as a key to happiness.
[00:13:55] Mentorship in veterinary school.
[00:19:42] The importance of mental health.
[00:20:24] The importance of mentorship.
[00:26:35] Real life vs ivory tower.

Episode Links
Listen to Garth’s podcast, Veterinary Vibes: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/veterinary-vibes/
Connect with Garth Robillard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garth-robillard-23516a174
Follow the Veterinary Vibes podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/VeterinaryVibes
Discover more from Garth Robillard: https://linktr.ee/veterinaryvibespodcast
Mentioned in this episode:
So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course
Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career...

Episode DescriptionIn this episode of the ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ Dr. Moriah McCauley is joined by Dr. Sean McCormack as they discuss being upfront and honest with clients about concerns regarding brachycephalic breeds. This refers to dog breeds with shortened heads, which often results in health issues, in particular breathing issues. 
Dr. McCormack emphasizes the need for veterinarians to address these issues openly and transparently with clients. By acknowledging the health problems associated with brachycephalic breeds and discussing them with clients, veterinarians can build trust and establish a strong relationship with pet owners.

Dr. McCormack highlights the significance of approaching these conversations with empathy and understanding. While it is essential to educate clients about the potential health issues their brachycephalic pets may face, it is equally important to convey that veterinarians and pet owners are on the same team. By emphasizing a collaborative approach and providing support and education, veterinarians can help clients navigate the challenges associated with owning brachycephalic breeds.

Furthermore, Dr. McCormack underscores the need for veterinarians to be supportive and non-judgmental when discussing brachycephalic health concerns with clients. By offering practical tips, sharing information about responsible breeding practices, and encouraging open dialogue, veterinarians can empower pet owners to make informed decisions about their pets' health and well-being.

In summary, the episode highlights the importance of being upfront and honest with clients about brachycephalic breed concerns while also emphasizing collaboration, support, and education. By approaching these conversations with empathy and providing valuable information, veterinarians can foster positive relationships with clients and work together towards the betterment of brachycephalic breeds.

Episode Outline[00:00:53] Brachycephalic dog health issues.[00:04:24] Breeding for exaggerated dog features.[00:09:47] Breeding issues in veterinary industry.[00:12:03] Responsible dog breed choices.[00:16:22] Advocating for dog welfare.[00:17:38] The importance of pet insurance.[00:21:44] Brachycephalic dogs on social media.[00:24:48] Responsible dog breeding practices.[00:30:11] Social movement for change.[00:32:34] Social media presence.

Episode LinksDr. Sean’s website: https://drseanmccormack.com/ 
Dr. Sean’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatvetsean/?hl=en 
Dr. Sean’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThatVetSean 
Dr. Sean’s Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/EalingWildlifeGroup/featured 
Mentioned in this episode:
So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course
Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills.

These are skills like client communication, so you have great relationships with clients. Emotional intelligence, so you've got great relationships with your teammates. Effective negotiation skills, so you can get paid what you are...