Blunt Dissection

Blunt Dissection
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The Blunt Dissection Podcast exists because everyone has a story worth listening to. It's the original and best interview podcast in veterinary medicine where the best minds in the various subcultures of veterinary medicine (and sometimes outside) are profiled/deconstructed so you can listen to their remarkable stories, and also learn the habits, routines, thought processes and anything else that makes these individuals so good at what they do. What’s in it for you to listen? For some, it's entertainment, for others the show offers inspiration. My hope is that once you’ve seen the pathway to success all you have to do is follow the breadcrumbs. Simple right? So what are you waiting for? Let's jump in and get to know some amazing people better. :) Sometimes funny, sometimes dark but always entertaining - welcome to the hidden world of veterinary success. Your host is Dr Dave Nicol, a veterinarian, occasional CEO, multiple time author, international speaker and mentor/coach to countless vets, nurses and managers in veterinary leadership roles across the world through VetX International.

  1. 85: Clients, Colleagues, and Chaos: A Survival Guide with Debra Vey Voda-Hamilton

    JUN 24

    85: Clients, Colleagues, and Chaos: A Survival Guide with Debra Vey Voda-Hamilton

    Debra’s story is wild. She’s worked in the courts. She’s bred Irish Setters. She’s been the PTA president (which, as she says, is like running the UN with biscuits). But what makes her special is her ability to meet people in the thick of their mess, whether it's a lawsuit over a pregnant rescue dog or a front-desk blowup, and find the gold. In this episode, I sit down with Debra Vey Voda-Hamilton, a former litigator turned mediator turned conflict resolution master. And trust me, if you’ve ever had a client, colleague, or complaint that made you question your career, this conversation is for you. We talk about ego, emotional intelligence, and why boundary-setting isn't just about saying “no.” We unpack the tiny shifts in language that can turn an explosive moment into something manageable. And we dig into a story from my early days that still sits with me, a story about a cat, a fractured jaw, and a moral gut-punch I’ll never forget. This episode is practical, honest, and (if you’re brave enough to look in the mirror) potentially career-changing. Debra brings the kind of wisdom we need more of in vet med: compassionate, clear, and totally unafraid of the hard stuff. Episode Highlights [00:01:00] You Can’t Control Others [00:05:30] How Debra Went from Courtroom to Vet Med [00:10:15] The Rescue Dog Case That Changed Everything [00:14:30] Mediation vs. Litigation [00:17:05] Ego, Suicide, and the Cost of Silence [00:21:15] What Vets and Lawyers Share (It’s Not Just Stress) [00:24:00] 12 Needle Sticks and a Lesson in Dignity [00:28:45] Are Clients the Problem? Or Are We? [00:33:20] Your Practice Culture Shapes Everything [00:38:10] Active Listening Without Losing Yourself [00:46:00] Dave’s Story: The One That Still Hurts [00:52:45] Divorce, Control, and the Cat in the Middle [01:01:00] Conflict Prevention Starts with Culture [01:06:00] Debra’s Stop-Drop-Roll Method [01:08:00] What Clients Really Want (Hint: Not Money) [01:14:30] 10 Ways We Undermine Dignity Without Realising [01:27:30] Communication Is Part of the Medicine [01:34:15] The Case for Leading with Grace Episode LinksHamilton Law & MediationWhy Do Pets Matter PodcastBook: Nipped in the Bud, Not in the Butt by Debra Vey Voda-HamiltonBook: Leading with Dignity by Dr. Donna HicksThe Link Coalition – https://nationallinkcoalition.org – exploring the link between animal abuse and human violenceRuby’s Law (UK domestic abuse + pet welfare legislation)a href="https://understandinginconflict.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    1h 36m
  2. Ep 84: Fluency, Failure & Feeling Alive with my coach, Mike Porteous

    MAY 21

    Ep 84: Fluency, Failure & Feeling Alive with my coach, Mike Porteous

    In this episode, I’m joined by the remarkable Mike Porteous, a triathlon coach, open-water swimmer, and deep thinker whose approach to performance, confidence, and coaching is anything but ordinary. Mike is a Level 3 Triathlon Coach, British Triathlon mentor, and the founder of Zig Zag Alive. His career spans decades, starting in academia and the UK civil service before pivoting into endurance sport coaching. He’s worked with athletes of all levels, from first-timers to elite competitors, and is passionate about fostering “confidence-centered coaching,” a method rooted not in data or drills, but in presence, ease, and self-trust. He’s also coaching me through my triathlon journey and many of his ideas and methods could, I believe, be highly useful to us inside veterinary medicine as we navigate our own challenges. We dive into Mike’s journey from working in Brazilian economics and UK industrial policy to launching an outdoor sports business, and eventually finding his home in helping others find their flow. A Swim England instructor and writer for the Outdoor Swimming Society, Mike combines intellectual insight with lived experience, including the healing power of endurance sport after personal loss. From redefining resilience and flow to explaining why confidence doesn’t “exist” in the way we think it does, Mike’s perspective is a refreshing and deeply humane take on success and coaching, both inside and outside sport. So whether you're a veterinary leader looking to inspire your team, an athlete seeking sustainable growth, or simply someone navigating your next life chapter, this conversation will leave you with more than a few moments to ponder. Pour a coffee or step outside for a walk, this one’s rich, reflective, and full of gentle, powerful wisdom. Episode Highlights[00:01:00] What Is Confidence-Centered Coaching? [00:04:25] The Cold Water Effect [00:12:00] Be Kind and Brave [00:16:00] Mike’s Zigzag Career Path [00:27:00] Resilient Businesses in Crisis [00:38:45] Sport, Loss & Recovery [00:44:00] From Grief to Growth [00:53:00] Running for Joy [01:01:00] Redefining Confidence [01:16:00] What Breaks Confidence [01:25:00] Coaching vs Mentoring [01:36:00] Coaching in Leadership [01:45:00] Letting Others Own It [01:52:00] Presence & Belonging Episode LinksZig Zag Alive Coaching: https://zigzagalive.comMike’s book: Confidence Centered CoachingOutdoor Swimming Society: https://www.outdoorswimmingsociety.comBeyond Belief: The Art of Confident Centred Coaching with Mike Porteous and Claire PedrickCoaching Yourself Confident by Julie SmithThe Inner Game of Tennis by Timothy GallweyFlow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly CsikszentmihalyiOrdinary Magic by Ann Masten If you enjoyed this episode:Share it...

    2h 16m
  3. Ep 83: Scaling Goodness: Why Leadership Still Matters in Vet Med with Dr. Bob Lester

    APR 30

    Ep 83: Scaling Goodness: Why Leadership Still Matters in Vet Med with Dr. Bob Lester

    In this episode, I’m joined by a truly impactful voice in veterinary medicine—Dr. Bob Lester. If you’ve ever wondered how to build something big without losing the soul of the work… Bob’s your guy. A veterinarian, entrepreneur, and systems thinker, Bob’s career spans small-town mixed animal practice, the founding of Banfield Pet Hospitals, academic leadership at Lincoln Memorial University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and now, his role as co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of WellHaven Pet Health—a company that’s quietly redefining what good corporate veterinary care can look like. From scaling national brands and reimagining vet school education to leading with optimism, Bob brings a rare blend of clarity, compassion, and straight-talking wisdom. In this wide-ranging conversation, we go deep on what it really takes to lead—without burning out, selling out, or tuning out. We talk about the messy middle between toxic positivity and chronic catastrophizing, how to build trust inside veterinary teams, and why who leads your practice matters more than what it looks like on paper. Plus, we explore mentorship, the future of GP care, and why now is actually a brilliant time to be in veterinary medicine—if we’re brave enough to lead with care and courage. This one is full of strategic insight and grounded humanity. Bob is proof that you can scale without losing your heart. Grab a notepad—and maybe a shot of optimism—and dig in. Episode Highlights [00:01:00] Why Leadership in Vet Med Feels Broken (and How to Fix It) [00:05:15] The Power (and Choice) of Optimism [00:10:00] Trust, Toxic Positivity, and Real Talk in Teams [00:14:30] What Actually Happens When You Get a Board Complaint [00:24:12] From Blue-Collar Kid to C-Suite Vet Leader [00:33:16] The Banfield Origin Story and Scaling Through PetSmart [00:41:00] The Case for General Practice as the Hub of Vet Care [00:50:01] How to Scale Leadership Without Killing Culture [01:01:00] Why Taking Care of People Comes First [01:08:24] Mentorship, Ownership, and What Really Works [01:21:00] Distributed Vet Schools, Communication Skills & Hope for the Future [01:23:15] Starting WellHaven: A Second Act With Heart [01:27:00] Career Reflection: Building, Teaching, and Lifting Others [01:33:19] Best Career Advice: Say Yes, Stay Curious, and Enjoy the Ride Episode LinksWellHaven Pet HealthConnect with Dr. Bob Lester If you enjoyed this episode, do us a favor: Share it with someone who cares deeply about the future of our profession.Tag us on social with your takeaways.Leave a review on Apple Podcasts—it helps others find the show and keeps amazing guests like Bob coming back.

    1h 37m
  4. Ep 82: Just Keep Swimming with Dr. Paula Yankauskas

    MAR 25

    Ep 82: Just Keep Swimming with Dr. Paula Yankauskas

    In this episode, I’m joined by an absolute powerhouse of a human being—Dr. Paula Yankauskas. A veterinarian, practice owner, and open-water swimming legend, Paula’s story is one of resilience, passion, and pushing the limits of what’s possible. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Paula has spent decades building and leading Lamoille Valley Veterinary Services, a thriving seven-doctor practice in rural Vermont. But as impressive as her veterinary career is, it’s her other life in the water that truly sets her apart. Paula is one of a select few athletes to have completed the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming—a gruelling trifecta of the English Channel, the Catalina Channel, and the 20 Bridges Swim around Manhattan. Not stopping there, she went on to achieve the Frosted Triple Crown, which adds the mind-boggling challenge of an Ice Mile—swimming a full mile in water below 5°C (41°F). From the discipline and endurance required to swim across the world’s toughest waters to the lessons of leadership, resilience, and goal-setting that she applies in veterinary medicine, Paula’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. We discuss how she balances her veterinary career with extreme endurance challenges, the mindset that allows her to push past discomfort, and the power of simply "just keep swimming." Whether you’re looking for inspiration in your own career, curious about open-water swimming, or just love hearing stories about people who redefine what’s possible, this episode is one you don’t want to miss. So grab a coffee (or maybe a wetsuit) and dive into this incredible conversation with Dr. Paula Yankauskas. Episode Highlights [00:01:00] The Meditative Power of Swimming [00:03:12] Paula’s Journey to Veterinary Medicine & Founding Lamoille Valley Veterinary Services [00:08:23] Taking the Leap: Her First English Channel Swim [00:15:45] The Psychological Battle of Marathon Swimming [00:22:10] Lessons from the Open Water & Applying Them to Vet Med [00:31:30] How to Train for Extreme Endurance Events While Running a Business [00:39:50] Facing the Cold – Completing the Frosted Triple Crown [00:47:12] The Human-Animal Bond & Passion for Veterinary Behavioral Medicine [00:55:43] Building a Successful Vet Practice in a Rural Community [01:06:11] Why Work-Life Balance is a Myth & What to Focus on Instead [01:15:38] How to Handle Setbacks & Keep Moving Forward [01:30:02] Best Career Advice for Veterinary Professionals [01:35:17] Final Thoughts: Just Keep Swimming Episode LinksFollow Lamoille Valley Veterinary Services: https://lvvsonline.com/ Learn more about the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming: https://www.openwaterpedia.com/wiki/Triple_Crown_of_Open_Water_Swimming If you enjoyed this episode, do us a favor: Share it with a friend who needs inspiration. Tag us on social media with your favorite takeaways. Leave a review on iTunes—it helps us keep bringing you amazing guests like Paula!

    1h 39m
  5. Ep 81: World Wild Vet - Dr. Evan Antin’s Mission to Save Animals & Inspire Change

    FEB 26

    Ep 81: World Wild Vet - Dr. Evan Antin’s Mission to Save Animals & Inspire Change

    In this episode, I’m joined by none other than Dr. Evan Antin—the globetrotting vet with a knack for treating everything from household pets to some of the most exotic creatures on the planet. Known to millions as "America's Sexiest Veterinarian," Evan has carved out a unique career that blends adventure, veterinary medicine, and a passion for conservation. From his Kansas roots to wrestling crocodiles and saving rhinos, Evan’s journey is as wild as the animals he cares for. As a practicing vet at Conejo Valley Veterinary Hospital in California, he balances his work with pets while traveling to far-flung corners of the globe, providing medical aid to animals in dire need. But it’s not all glamour—Evan dives deep into the challenges of being an exotic animal vet and the ethical questions conservationists face daily. With his signature charm and relentless energy, Evan talks about his passion for educating millions through social media and TV, how he’s using his platform to advocate for responsible pet ownership, and the life-changing stories behind his book, World Wild Vet. Whether it's saving an orphaned rhino calf or teaching us about conservation one Instagram post at a time, Evan embodies what it means to lead with purpose and heart. Grab your brew, sit back, and enjoy as we explore Dr. Evan's incredible journey from small-town Kansas to the global stage. Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Ethical Social Media and Wildlife Conservation [00:03:01] Meeting Dr. Marty Becker and Early Career Influences [00:06:16] Growing Up in Kansas and the Passion for Wildlife [00:10:40] Finding Veterinary Medicine as a Career Path [00:15:55] Lessons from Steve Irwin and David Attenborough [00:21:37] The Role of Social Media in Wildlife Awareness [00:27:12] Surviving Vet School and Staying Motivated [00:35:19] Writing World Wild Vet and Lessons from the Field [00:41:23] The Dark Realities of Rhino Poaching [00:46:06] Finding Hope in Conservation Efforts [00:51:43] Dangerous Wildlife Encounters and Lessons Learned [01:06:11] The Book Writing Process and Working with a Ghostwriter [01:21:14] Supporting Legitimate Conservation Organizations [01:30:02] Best Career Advice and Key Lessons for Vet Students [01:35:17] Final Thoughts on Living in the Moment Episode Links Dr. Evan Antin’s book: World Wild VetFollow Dr. Evan Antin on Instagram: @dr.evanantinLearn more about Rhino 911: https://www.rhino911.com/ Follow Rhino 911 on Instagram: @rhino911npo

    1h 42m
  6. Ep 80: Curiosity, Conservation, and Creativity: The Many Lives of Rick LeCouteur

    JAN 22

    Ep 80: Curiosity, Conservation, and Creativity: The Many Lives of Rick LeCouteur

    Today’s guest is a remarkable individual whose career spans decades, continents, and disciplines. Meet Rick LeCouteur—a trailblazer in veterinary neurology and neurosurgery, an educator who has mentored generations of veterinarians, and a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation. Rick’s story begins in rural Australia, where his love for animals was ignited. Over the years, his relentless pursuit of knowledge led him to teach and lecture in more than 70 countries, transforming lives and veterinary practices along the way. From pioneering advancements in veterinary neurology to developing innovative surgical techniques, Rick’s career is a testament to the power of curiosity and resilience. In his “retirement”—a term he redefines as “what’s next?”—Rick has become an acclaimed wildlife photographer, conservationist, and children’s author. His latest book, Nasty Names Are Hurtful: An Australian White Ibis in the City, combines his passions for storytelling, education, and the natural world. Tackling themes of empathy, resilience, and environmental conservation, Rick continues to inspire the next generation of animal lovers and environmental stewards. In this episode, we explore Rick’s incredible journey from rural beginnings to global impact. We discuss the evolution of veterinary medicine, the art of mastering multiple careers, and how a simple belief—“What’s next?”—can fuel a life of purpose and joy. Whether you’re a vet, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about how one person can make such a lasting impact, this conversation is for you. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and prepare to be inspired by the one-and-only Rick LeCouteur. Episode Links Rick LeCouteur’s websiteNasty Names Are Hurtful and other books by Rick LeCouteur on AmazonRick’s blog: Insights on neurology, conservation, and creativity. Episode Outline 00:01:29 Meet Rick LeCouteur 00:06:00 Early Influences 00:13:00 Challenges in Veterinary Medicine 00:20:00 Philosophy of “What’s Next” 00:26:00 Breaking Into Neurology 00:37:00 Writing for Kids 00:50:00 Mentorship Matters 01:09:00 Conservation Mission 01:19:00 Impact Through Creativity 01:33:00 Creativity and AI 01:42:00 Closing Reflections

    1h 46m
  7. Ep 79: Courage Under Fire: Rescuing Animals and People in Crisis with Pen Farthing

    12/11/2024

    Ep 79: Courage Under Fire: Rescuing Animals and People in Crisis with Pen Farthing

    Today’s guest is nothing short of extraordinary. His story is one of courage, compassion, and an unshakable sense of purpose. Meet Pen Farthing—a former Royal Marine Commando who took an unexpected turn to become an animal welfare champion and founder of the Nowzad Charity. It all started with a stray dog Pen befriended during his time in Afghanistan, a bond that sparked the creation of the country’s first-ever animal rescue center. But this wasn’t just about saving animals—Pen’s mission empowered communities, employing Afghanistan’s first female veterinarians and running crucial rabies vaccination programs that saved both human and animal lives in regions desperate for such intervention. Fast forward to 2021, when the world watched the chaotic withdrawal of coalition forces from Afghanistan and the Taliban’s rapid takeover of Kabul. Amid this turmoil, Pen spearheaded the now-famous Operation Ark. It was a mission fraught with danger and resistance, from navigating the deadly threat of the Taliban to overcoming relentless bureaucratic hurdles, political pressure, and a hostile media storm back in the UK. Headlines screamed accusations of 'prioritizing pets over people,' but the reality was far more complex. Pen’s focus was on rescuing his entire team alongside the animals, blending humanity with heroism in the darkest of circumstances. The gripping story of Operation Ark is captured in Pen’s book, Operation Ark: The Tale of Courage and Compassion in Afghanistan’s Darkest Hour. Today, we’ll dive into what it really means to lead with integrity when the stakes couldn’t be higher, explore the personal cost of standing by your values, and learn what’s next for this remarkable individual. So, make yourself a brew, settle in, and enjoy this powerful conversation with the one-and-only, Pen Farthing. Episode Links ‘Operation Ark’ by Pen Farthing: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Operation-Ark-Pen-Farthing/dp/1910461709 Nowzad Charity: https://www.nowzad.com/ Follow Pen Farthing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/penfarthing/ Follow Nowzad Charity on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nowzadrescue/ Connect with Pen Farthing on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pen-farthing-46b967ab/ Episode Outline [00:01:30] The Birth of Nowzad Charity [00:04:15] Vital Rabies Vaccine Programs [00:07:50] The Chaos of 2021 [00:13:00] Facing the Taliban and Bureaucratic Hurdles [00:19:45] The Misunderstood Mission [00:26:10] The Role of US Service Personnel [00:35:30] Life After Operation Ark [00:42:00] Current and Future Work [00:49:00] Closing Thoughts

    1h 39m
  8. Ep 78: Grit, Mountains, and Medicine: Inside the Mind of Trailblazer Dr. Jasmin Paris

    11/11/2024

    Ep 78: Grit, Mountains, and Medicine: Inside the Mind of Trailblazer Dr. Jasmin Paris

    On today’s show, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Jasmin Paris—a true powerhouse in the worlds of veterinary medicine and ultra-running.  Jasmin’s got a serious academic pedigree: Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Veterinary Science, PhD, and membership in the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Jasmin is a leading expert in small animal medicine, but honestly, it’s her jaw-dropping athletic feats that leave most of us in awe. Jasmin is one of the most accomplished female ultra runners, particularly in Fell Running, on the planet. Just this March, she made history as the first woman ever to complete the brutal Barkley Marathons in Tennessee, a 100-mile monster with a 60-hour cutoff that only 20 people have ever conquered in its 38-year run. And that’s not all—back in 2019, Jasmin won the Montane Spine Race, a 268-mile winter ultramarathon across England’s Pennine Way, breaking the record by over 12 hours, all while expressing breast milk and caring for her 14-month-old daughter. She’s also crushed records in the 2016 British Fell Running Championship and the Bob Graham Round, blazing through that gruelling 66-mile challenge in an incredible 15 hours and 24 minutes. From her days as a vet student, captivated by animals and the science behind their care, to her relentless pursuit of the next peak in mountain running, Jasmin is the embodiment of grit and passion. Today, we’ll dig into her incredible journey, exploring how she’s balanced—and thrived—at the intersection of veterinary medicine and ultra-running, and the lessons she’s picked up along the way. So sit back, grab a cup of tea and enjoy my conversation with the one-and-only Dr. Jasmin Paris. Episode Links Dr Jasmin’s blog: https://jasminfellrunner.blogspot.com/ Follow Dr. Jasmin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasminparis_fellrunner/ The Green Runners: https://thegreenrunners.com/ Episode Outline 00:01:00] - Introduction to Dr. Jasmin Paris’s Dual Passions [00:04:45] - Discovering the Call to Veterinary Medicine [00:13:20] - First Steps into the World of Ultramarathons [00:21:30] - Breaking Records at the Montane Spine Race [00:28:10] - Preparing for the Barkley Marathons Challenge [00:39:15] - Becoming the First Woman to Finish the Barkley [00:47:20] - Lessons in Resilience from Running and Vet Medicine [00:53:00] - The Key to Work-Life Balance and Recovery [01:00:05] - The Power of Teamwork and Community [01:05:50] - Final Advice for New Graduates

    1h 7m
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About

The Blunt Dissection Podcast exists because everyone has a story worth listening to. It's the original and best interview podcast in veterinary medicine where the best minds in the various subcultures of veterinary medicine (and sometimes outside) are profiled/deconstructed so you can listen to their remarkable stories, and also learn the habits, routines, thought processes and anything else that makes these individuals so good at what they do. What’s in it for you to listen? For some, it's entertainment, for others the show offers inspiration. My hope is that once you’ve seen the pathway to success all you have to do is follow the breadcrumbs. Simple right? So what are you waiting for? Let's jump in and get to know some amazing people better. :) Sometimes funny, sometimes dark but always entertaining - welcome to the hidden world of veterinary success. Your host is Dr Dave Nicol, a veterinarian, occasional CEO, multiple time author, international speaker and mentor/coach to countless vets, nurses and managers in veterinary leadership roles across the world through VetX International.

Information

  • Creator
    Blunt Dissection
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    85
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved
  • Show Website
    Blunt Dissection