The 'So You're A Vet... Now What?' Podcast

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

This is the show that all vets in practice need to listen in to! Entering its third season, host Dr Moriah McCauley takes on the issues of the day through her eyes as a recent graduate. Nothing is off limits as Dr Moriah calls out and discusses the issues of the day. Sometimes she’ll take on your questions, other times she’ll be joined by a special guest and some days she’s just got to get something of her chest. Join Dr Moriah as she puts her finger on the pulse of veterinary practice each week to inspire, encourage and challenge you with The So You're A Vet... Now What Podcast! The show is part of the So You're A Vet... Now What? group of products designed to help recent graduates and final-year vet students find their feet in veterinary medicine. Send your questions for the show on Instagram to @soyoureavet.

  1. Ep 257: Mentorship That Makes or Breaks You with Dr. Kate Boatright

    5D AGO

    Ep 257: Mentorship That Makes or Breaks You with Dr. Kate Boatright

    In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley reconnects with Dr. Kate Boatright for a candid look at how mentorship shapes veterinary careers—for better or worse. Kate opens up about her early years in practice, comparing a supportive first clinic to a second job that nearly broke her confidence. She shares how one life-saving emergency case helped her turn the corner, and how those experiences now fuel her mission to help others build better mentorship programs.  Whether you're a new grad vet or someone who’s survived a rough start, this episode is packed with honest, practical wisdom on what makes mentorship work—and what happens when it doesn’t. Episode Outline[00:00] Starting Strong: What Great Mentorship Looked Like [04:26] Early Wins and Scheduling Challenges [08:07] When Culture Supports Growth [12:25] The Second Practice: Promises vs. Reality [18:04] The Review That Changed Everything [23:03] Finding Support Again [24:04] A Turning Point [28:33] Learning to Lead and Mentor [34:03] Turning Hard Lessons into Lectures [35:48] Key Interview Questions for Vet Job Seekers Episode LinksSee more from Dr. Kate Boatright: https://www.instagram.com/writetheboat/  Connect with Dr. Kate Boatright: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateboatrightvmd/ 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.

    38 min
  2. Ep 256: Should Influencers Be Speaking at Vet Conferences? with Dr. Moriah McCauley

    APR 9

    Ep 256: Should Influencers Be Speaking at Vet Conferences? with Dr. Moriah McCauley

    In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley dives headfirst into a hot topic stirring debate across Vetstagram, TikTok, and beyond: Should veterinary influencers be allowed to speak at CE conferences? Before diving into the controversy, Dr. Moriah offers a warm recap of last week’s episode with Dr. Katie Miller from Rockingham Veterinary Clinic—a rural Kansas practice quietly building a mentorship model that goes far beyond the basics. She highlights how Katie and her team built a species-specific action plan for their new grad, setting quarterly growth goals and fostering a practice-wide culture of mentorship—from vets to vet assistants and beyond. Then it's on to the deep end: What role should social media-savvy vets play in shaping continuing education? Dr. Moriah breaks down the concerns raised by a recent podcast episode questioning the credibility of influencers on the CE stage, and offers a nuanced, thoughtful rebuttal. She explores what really matters when evaluating speakers—credibility, content, and connection—and why influence doesn’t have to dilute quality. You’ll also hear Dr. Moriah answer listener questions about CE, race-approved content, and the value of resonance in education. If you’ve ever wondered how social media is shaping the future of veterinary learning—or what qualifies someone to be on stage at a conference—this episode is for you. Episode Outline[00:00] The Mentorship Model at Rockingham Vet [04:26] Action Plans for New Grads: Skills by Species [08:07] Creating a Culture of Mentorship Beyond the Vets [12:25] Listener Q&A: Should Influencers Be Teaching at Conferences? [14:51] The Podcast That Sparked the Debate [19:17] Evaluating Credibility Beyond Follower Counts [22:00] What Actually Counts as CE? [26:22] Why Communication, Marketing & Mentorship Matter Too [28:33] The Problem with Focusing on the Worst-Case Influencers [32:04] Information vs. Resonance: What Makes a Great Educator [37:07] What We Can Learn from Social Media Communicators [38:33] The Future of CE: Panels, Collaboration, and Connection Episode LinksSee more from Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.instagram.com/dr.moriah.mccauley Connect with Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moriah-mccauley 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....

    43 min
  3. Ep 255: Rural Practice, Big Impact: A Mentorship Model That Delivers, with Dr. Kathryn Miller

    APR 1

    Ep 255: Rural Practice, Big Impact: A Mentorship Model That Delivers, with Dr. Kathryn Miller

    In this episode of So You're a Vet, Now What?, Dr. Moriah McCauley sits down with Dr. Kathryn Miller of Rocking KM Veterinary Services, a mixed animal practice in central Kansas that's rewriting the mentorship playbook for rural medicine. Dr. Miller shares how her practice has embraced a culture of mentorship—not just for new grads, but for the entire team. She opens up about how mentorship became a cornerstone of their clinic’s growth, the structure they developed to support new grads, and the mindset shift that’s helped everyone on the team—from CSRs to senior vets—grow through collaboration. Through candid reflections, we learn how knowing your team's personalities can make or break a mentorship experience. Whether you're a vet student unsure what to ask for in a first job, or a practice owner hoping to build a program from scratch, this episode is packed with honest insights and ideas you can take back to your clinic. Episode Outline [00:00] – Meet Dr. Kathryn Miller and Rocking KM Vet Services [00:01] – What Mentorship Means in Their Practice [00:03] – Culture and Collaboration Across the Team [00:05] – Supporting the Rural Veterinary Community [00:07] – Mentorship Beyond Doctors: CSRs and Techs [00:09] – Growth in Confidence for New Grads [00:11] – The Mentor's Learning Curve [00:13] – Communication Styles and Personality Clashes [00:15] – Building a Written Mentorship Plan [00:17] – What Success Looks Like in Practice [00:19] – Advice for Vet Students Seeking the Right Fit Episode Links  Learn more about Rocking KM Veterinary Services: https://rockingkmvet.com Follow them on Instagram: @rockingkmvet 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.

    45 min
  4. Ep 254: Imposter Syndrome Isn’t Always Bad with Dr. Moriah McCauley

    MAR 25

    Ep 254: Imposter Syndrome Isn’t Always Bad with Dr. Moriah McCauley

    In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley explores the surprising upside of imposter syndrome—and why it might actually be a sign you're on the right path. Building off her conversation with Geoffrey van Zijl, she reflects on how mentorship has transformed since the ‘90s, when veterinary technicians were left to sink or swim, and shares Geoffrey’s story of finding his footing in emergency and critical care. Dr. Moriah also breaks down her favorite metaphor for understanding imposter syndrome: the stretch zone. She explains how to tell the difference between growing pains and full-blown burnout, and why the goal of any great mentor is to help you thrive just outside your comfort zone—without tipping into panic. Plus, she answers a listener’s question about mid-career mentorship and introduces the “plus-minus-equals” model: a simple framework for making sure you're always learning and lifting others up. And in the final segment, she sounds the alarm on a deeply concerning trend—fake AI-generated “veterinarians” pushing unregulated supplements online—and shares why showing up, building trust, and becoming visible in your community has never been more important. Whether you’re brand new or decades into your veterinary career, this episode will reframe how you think about mentorship, growth, and your role in shaping the future of the profession. Episode Outline [00:00] Imposter Syndrome in the Veterinary Profession [06:30] How It Shows Up in Everyday Practice [09:58] The Comfort, Stretch, and Panic Zones [12:14] Why Imposter Syndrome Can Signal Growth [15:44] Mentorship Dynamics at Every Career Stage [19:47] The Rise of AI in Veterinary Medicine [23:31] Rebuilding Trust and Showing Up as Real Vets Episode Links See more from Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.instagram.com/dr.moriah.mccauley Connect with Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moriah-mccauley 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.

    28 min
  5. Ep 253: From Surviving to Thriving: The Importance of Mentorship, with Geoffrey van Zijl

    MAR 18

    Ep 253: From Surviving to Thriving: The Importance of Mentorship, with Geoffrey van Zijl

    In this episode of So You're a Vet, Now What? Dr. Moriah McCauley welcomes Geoffrey van Zijl, a passionate ER technician dedicated to mentoring veterinary technicians. With nearly two decades in the field, Geoffrey shares his journey from the early 90s, when technician support was scarce, to today’s evolving profession. He reflects on the impact of mentorship in reducing burnout and turnover while enhancing patient care. Geoffrey opens up about overcoming burnout through self-reflection and mentorship, emphasizing the need for a supportive learning culture. He shares practical tips for guiding new technicians and celebrates their growth. Episode Outline [00:00:15] - Meet Geoffrey van Zijl: Passionate ER Technician [00:02:08] - The Importance of Mentorship for LVTs [00:03:01] - The Dynamic Duo: Technicians and Veterinarians [00:05:59] - Personal Journey: Overcoming Challenges in the Field [00:08:57] - Finding Passion and Avoiding Burnout [00:16:23] - The Shift to Mentorship: Taking Initiative [00:19:35] - Intentional Mentorship: Setting Goals [00:22:40] - The Reward of Watching Mentees Succeed [00:28:26] - Personal Growth Through Mentorship [00:32:34] - Future Aspirations in Mentorship Episode Links  Follow Geoffrey: https://www.instagram.com/aint.doin.right 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.

    39 min
  6. Ep 252: From New Grad to Practice Owner: Dr. Pop's Mentorship Model, with Dr. Alexandru Pop

    MAR 4

    Ep 252: From New Grad to Practice Owner: Dr. Pop's Mentorship Model, with Dr. Alexandru Pop

    In this episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?", host Dr. Moriah McCauley  welcomes Dr. Alexandru Pop from Appalachian Vet Services. Dr. Pop, a practice owner and seasoned veterinarian, shares invaluable insights into the importance of vulnerability and mentorship in veterinary medicine. As a newly graduated vet in 2019, Dr. Pop had ambitious goals, including practice ownership. Fast forward six years, he now successfully leads a mixed animal multi-doctor practice and emphasizes the significance of cultivating a mentorship culture. Dr. Pop discusses the financial investments involved in hiring new graduates and why these are crucial for effective mentorship. Listeners will hear about Dr. Pop’s thoughtfully crafted mentorship model, which has evolved over the years, and understand why fostering a supportive environment is essential for the growth and success of new vets. This episode is a must-listen for final-year vet students and recent graduates looking for guidance and inspiration on their journey in veterinary medicine. Tune in to discover how embracing vulnerability and investing in mentorship can transform your veterinary career. Episode Outline [00:02:25] Financial implications of new grads. [00:03:58] Mentorship Investments in New Grads [00:09:52] A culture of mentorship. [00:12:11] Generational change and development. [00:16:32] Investment in new graduates [00:19:35] The relational side of practice [00:23:30] Mentorship model. [00:27:05] Gauging mentee readiness [00:30:50] Working interview importance. [00:34:12] Equine reproductive services expansion. [00:38:26] Mentorship-focused practice transformation. Episode Links  See more from Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.instagram.com/alexandrupoppy/  Learn more about Appalachian Vet Services: https://appalachianvetservices.com/ 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.

    43 min
  7. Ep 251: The Reality of Vet School, NAVLE Results & Transitioning to Practice with, with Dr. Moriah McCauley

    FEB 24

    Ep 251: The Reality of Vet School, NAVLE Results & Transitioning to Practice with, with Dr. Moriah McCauley

    In this episode, Dr. Moriah McCauley takes us on a deep dive into the emotional rollercoaster of vet school, the anxiety of waiting for NAVLE results, and the often-overlooked challenges of transitioning from student to practicing veterinarian. Reflecting on her own journey, she shares personal stories from her time at the University of Edinburgh, including the night NAVLE results were released and the impact of having a supportive network during those crucial moments. She also explores the concept of spectrum of care, why it’s vital to understand health literacy and health equity, and how veterinarians can better support their clients by addressing these barriers. Plus, Dr. Moriah tackles a listener's question: "Can I still have a mentor even if I’m four years out?"—spoiler: Yes, and you should! Whether you’re a vet student, a recent graduate, or a few years into practice, this episode is full of insights on growth, mentorship, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in the veterinary profession. Episode Outline [02:21] The NAVLE Waiting Game: A Vet Student’s Experience [05:00] The Night NAVLE Results Dropped: A Personal Story [10:11] Preparing for Graduation: Ready or Not? [14:29] Building a Post-Vet School Network [17:22] Self-Reflection: Looking Back on Vet School Growth [19:14] Listener Q&A: "Can I Still Have a Mentor If I'm Four Years Out?" [23:08] The Foundations of Spectrum of Care: Health Literacy & Health Equity [27:18] Why This Matters for Every Vet [31:33] Teaser for Next Week’s Episode! Episode Links See more from Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.instagram.com/dr.moriah.mccauley/  Connect with Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moriah-mccauley 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.

    34 min
  8. Ep 250: The Journey Ahead: Mentorship, Growth, and the Reality of Being a New Grad, with Dr. Dani Poll

    FEB 17

    Ep 250: The Journey Ahead: Mentorship, Growth, and the Reality of Being a New Grad, with Dr. Dani Poll

    This week on the  "So You're a Vet, Now What?" podcast host Dr. Moriah McCauley takes you on a nostalgic journey back to her final year of vet school with her classmate and close friend, Dr. Dani Poll. Together, they revisit their "Scrubbed In" miniseries recorded during their final year at the Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on their journey through vet school, filled with personal anecdotes, practical advice, and a glimpse into the highs and lows of veterinary education. Whether you're a vet student, a recent graduate, or a mentor, we hope these stories provide inspiration and insight into the rewarding world of veterinary medicine. Episode Outline [00:00:27] Mentorship in veterinary practices. [00:06:14] Exam experiences and student life. [00:10:00] Community support during challenges. [00:14:10] Transitioning from vet school. [00:15:34] Job searching and mentorship. [00:19:05] Don't care what others think. [00:22:32] Community Impact on Personal Growth. [00:26:10] Caring about others' opinions. [00:28:50] Podcast future and audience feedback. Episode Links Learn more about Dr. Dani: https://www.loopabroad.com/faculty/danielle-poll-dvm/ Connect with Dr. Dani: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-poll-8b86a5159/ Follow Dr. Dani: https://www.instagram.com/poll_dani/ See more from Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.instagram.com/dr.moriah.mccauley/  Connect with Dr. Moriah McCauley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moriah-mccauley 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.

    31 min
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    About

    This is the show that all vets in practice need to listen in to! Entering its third season, host Dr Moriah McCauley takes on the issues of the day through her eyes as a recent graduate. Nothing is off limits as Dr Moriah calls out and discusses the issues of the day. Sometimes she’ll take on your questions, other times she’ll be joined by a special guest and some days she’s just got to get something of her chest. Join Dr Moriah as she puts her finger on the pulse of veterinary practice each week to inspire, encourage and challenge you with The So You're A Vet... Now What Podcast! The show is part of the So You're A Vet... Now What? group of products designed to help recent graduates and final-year vet students find their feet in veterinary medicine. Send your questions for the show on Instagram to @soyoureavet.

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