The VetMed Mind

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Dr. Jennifer Edwards and Rachel Teichberg discuss conscious leadership, mindset, and personal growth, empowering veterinary professionals to overcome challenges and create a life of purpose and success.

Jennifer is a mindset and leadership coach, speaker, and veterinarian who empowers people to cultivate conscious leadership and make empowered choices in their lives. With a background in psychology, experience as a successful CEO, and extensive training in self-development, she helps veterinary professionals overcome obstacles and achieve meaningful success through coaching, training, and workshops.

To learn more about Dr. Edward's passions...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Amy Weaver, Shawn McVey, and Rachel Teichberg discuss their personal journey's through compassion fatigue and mission to bring more awareness to mental health in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Amy Weaver is a Senior Diagnostics Professional Services Veterinarian for Corporate and Specialty at Zoetis Diagnostics. Prior to working for Zoetis, she was in small animal general practice for ten years at clinics in rural Ohio and on the coast of Connecticut. She has deep passion for Compassion Fatigue education, getting cats to the vet, and fear-free medicine.

To learn more...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Dr. Erin Holder, Shawn McVey, & Rachel Teichberg discuss what it means to help veterinarians and caregivers overcome burnout and continue their vital work with resilience.

Dr. Holder opened an integrative veterinary practice and after eighteen years suffered profound compassion fatigue. She sold her practice and began reflecting on what went wrong and how to heal herself. After completing compassion fatigue training and meditation instruction training, she felt she could bring new ideas of hope to the veterinary community. The Veterinary Compassion Project is born out of love for this community...

In this episode of The VetMed Mind, Julia Behr, Shawn McVey, and Rachel Teichberg share their unforgettable adventures and explore Julia’s unstoppable spirit of positivity in the world of veterinary medicine.

Since joining Veterinary Growth Partners in 2015, Julia Behr has played a pivotal role in shaping and expanding the practice coach team. Passionate about fostering collaboration, she empowers veterinary hospitals to achieve their goals and overcome challenges. Julia finds deep fulfillment in helping others incorporate self-care, wellness, and positivity into their daily routines, ultimately improving retention and career satisfaction. Committed to inspiring and equipping veterinary professionals, sh...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Thomas Stevens, Shawn McVey, and Rachel Teichberg discuss their adventures together and Thomas's resilient journey in the veterinary industry.

Thomas Stevens is a free-thinking, driven, and goal-oriented professional who dedicates 110% of his time and passion to every project he undertakes. For Thomas, it's not just about what he does but, more importantly, why he does it. This sense of purpose fuels his unwavering commitment to his career and drives him to help others understand the passion behind his work. At Lap of Love, Thomas's mission is to collaborate closely with...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Daniella Morgan-Pascualvaca, Ben Seidman, and Shawn McVey discuss their adventures with Mella Pet Care and their time on the hit TV show Shark Tank!

Daniella Morgan-Pascualvaca, Chief of Staff at Mella Pet Care, has been instrumental in managing partnerships, communications, and customer relations for the past four years. She’s pursuing an MBA at the University of Chicago and has even appeared on Shark Tank. Alongside her, Ben Seidman, known for his resourcefulness and collaborative spirit, leads sales, marketing, operations, and strategy. His dog, Biggie, inspired Mella's second product, showcasing his...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Dr. Shandell Maxwell, Rachel Teichberg, and Shawn McVey discuss their adventures together and Jill's unbridled force of positive nature in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Maxwell is the Chief Executive Officer of Byrd & Maxwell Coaching Institute, where she coaches veterinary professionals on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and management practices. Through Byrd & Maxwell, she coaches veterinary professionals on best practices in veterinary management and ways to incorporate diversity equity, and inclusion strategies. Most importantly , she educates on business and social constructs and challenges her clients to try new approaches to business that supports...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Rachel Teichberg and Meghan Bingham discuss her journey in helping improve processes for the people who help pets and set up their practices for success.

Meghan began her career in veterinary medicine over twenty-five years ago, progressing from Kennel to Technician, Receptionist, and finally Practice Manager, growing a practice from one vet to 12 doctors. She then became a Senior Operations Manager, aiding 25 Emergency, Urgent, and General Practices. Now with Granite Peak Associates, Meghan improves processes for veterinary practices. She holds a BA in Communications, a Certified Veterinary Practice Management Certification...

In this episode of VetMed Mind, Bethany Bankovich, Shawn McVey, and Rachel Teichberg share their adventures and highlight Bethany's boundless positivity in the field of veterinary medicine.

Bethany currently serves as the Hospital Administrator of Neffsville Veterinary Clinic, a 9-doctor, AAHA accredited small animal practice in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. She has been managing practices in the veterinary industry since 2008. She earned her B.S. in Communications from Clarion University of Pennsylvania in 2004, M.H.R.M./M.B.A. from Saint Francis University of Pennsylvania in 2006, A.A.S. in Veterinary Technology in 2010 from the Bel-Rea Institute in...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Bash Halow, Shawn McVey, & Rachel Teichberg discuss Bash's adventure and journey in veterinary medicine.

Bash Halow, a graduate of the College of William and Mary and Purdue University's Veterinary Management Institute, is a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager and Licensed Veterinary Technician. He founded Halow Consulting in 2010, helping veterinary practices with team building and revenue improvement. Bash contributes to DVM 360 and serves on the editorial advisory board for Firstline Magazine and FetchDVM360 conferences. He founded the New Jersey Veterinary Hospital Managers and NYC Big Apple Veterinary Managers Associations and received the...

In this episode of The VetMed Mind, Rachel Teichberg meets with Avery Hurst to discuss her journey in VetMed and how she ended up landing the role of National Account Manager at Vetsource.

Avery Hurst has enjoyed a 6-year career at Vetsource, a prescription management and home delivery solution. Vetsource facilitates connections between veterinarians and pet owners, enabling them to broaden their reach and establish quantifiable links within the pet healthcare universe. Avery is passionate about cultivating relationships, practicing attentive listening, engaging in collaborative problem-solving, and identifying opportunities to contribute value while strategically aligning with C-suite objectives...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Dr. Kelly Cairns, Shawn McVey, & Rachel Teichberg discuss her journey in veterinary medicine that led her to a leadership role at Thrive Pet Healthcare.

Dr. Kelly Cairns, a veterinarian with extensive experience, earned her degree from CSU in 2004 and achieved Diplomate status after completing a small animal internal medicine residency at the Ohio State University in 2008. She now serves as Vice President of Medical Excellence and Education at Thrive Pet Healthcare, alongside roles in academia and veterinary associations. Renowned for her international lectures on veterinary wellness, leadership, and internal medicine...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Rebecca Rose discusses her 37 year Journey in vetmed and the diverse road that led her to where she is today!

Rebecca Rose, RVT, with over 37 years in the veterinary field, has authored "Career Choices for Veterinary Technicians" and held various leadership roles. Her diverse experience spans managing clinics, collaborating with industry partners, and currently serving as Outreach Specialist Manager at Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice. Rose is passionate about professional development, facilitating workshops, and fostering growth and longevity in veterinary careers, continuously supporting teams to reach their full potential.

In this episode of The VetMed Mind Kate Duncan discusses her journey in vetmed. Alongside Shawn McVey and Rachel Teichberg, the three touch on a variety of topics including the challenges, building up a practice, and personal / professional values.

With a lifelong passion for animals, from pets to wildlife, and a diverse journey through various career paths, Kate Duncan immersed in culinary arts, radio broadcasting, and eventually veterinary medicine. Born in the desert and raised on a hobby farm, her love for domestic and wild animals grew alongside her experiences. With Kate's rescue pups and a penchant...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, David Liss and Rachel Teichberg discuss how to develop growing future leaders and holding them accountable. Drawing from his professional background, David also shares insights on navigating the path forward.

David Liss is a veterinary business leader with an MBA, CVPM, and RVT certifications. With a diverse background spanning the veterinary industry, David has spent the past decade serving as a veterinary education program director, hospital manager, and multi-site operations manager. He possesses skills in marketing, California-specific human resource management, revenue management, financial analysis, inventory optimization, and fostering team dynamics...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Caydence Cline and Rachel Teichberg discuss the joys, challenges, and meaningful moments that come with sharing the veterinary journey within a familial context.

Caydence Cline, FFCP, embarked on her journey with the Arizona Animal Wellness Center in 2021. Even before stepping foot into AAWC, she harbored a passion for animals, inspired by her mother’s dedication to the center since 2014. Growing up amidst the bustling environment of the hospital, Caydence witnessed its evolution and success firsthand. She aims to jumpstart her college endeavors and explore various programs. Post-graduation, she has secured ad...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, Dr. Jill Clark and Shawn McVey discuss their adventures together and Jill's unbridled force of positive nature in veterinary medicine.

Dr. Jill Clark is a veterinarian with broad experience in veterinary hospital operations and employee development that ranges from individual client interactions to driving broad corporate initiatives, innovative learning design, change management, multi-site management and strategic planning. Passion for professional education and team development through the creation of innovative, award winning learning ecosystems. An out of the box thinker who embraces and drives change and innovation. Her story is inspirational...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, two larger than life veterinary speakers and friends talk about life in the profession.

Dr. Adam Christman is the chief veterinary officer for dvm360® — an MJH Life Sciences® company — who oversees content strategy and development and is the brand voice and personality for dvm360®’s multimedia channels. As a charismatic leader, he brings wit, humor, and authenticity to animal health care as the host of a new web-based talk show, dvm360 Live!™, The Vet Blast Podcast, continuing education webinars, and live media broadcasts. Christman also has been in private practice and shelter...

Ke aloha mai and we are back for 2024!

In this episode of the VetMed Mind, we take a trip down memory lane with Shawn McVey and Dr. Jasen Trautwein.

Dr. Jasen Trautwein is one of the visionaries behind Veterinary Growth Partners. He has dedicated much of his career to building and creating veterinary industry business models that support practitioner growth in positive and fulfilling ways. Since graduating from Texas A&M University, Jason has owned multiple successful veterinary practices in addition to founding Pathway Vet Alliance and Thrive Affordable Vet Care. He currently serves as a...

In this Season Finale episode of the VetMed Mind, Shawn McVey and Ian Mathey discuss what it means to be successful in veterinary medicine and life.

Thanks to his military service and prize-winning Team Roping career, Ian Mathey learned early on that working hard and never giving up would be integral to his success. That mindset, coupled with his extensive background in sales and business management, has made Ian invaluable to VGP since he first started in 2015. Since then, Ian has focused on building lasting connections with vendors and practice owners—helping them not only define what su...

In this episode of VetMed Mind, Rachel Teichberg interviews Rhonda Bell, CVPM, CCFP, PCM, CDMP.

Rhonda discovered her passion for veterinary medicine as a potential career path, but it was her decision to become a professional veterinary manager that truly transformed her life. In 2006, she completed her business management degree at Western International University, and in 2015, she obtained her certification as a Veterinary Practice Management professional. She continued to enhance her skills by earning the Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional certification in 2020, followed by the Certified Digital Marketing Professional and Professional Certified Marketer-Digital certifications in 2021. As a lifelong le...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

We had the opportunity to meet Dr. Krista Williams and Sandra Coleman, two wonderful representatives from LifeLearn Animal Health, which is one of the preferred vendors of Veterinary Growth Partners. Rachel thoroughly enjoyed her conversation with them, where they discussed LifeLearn Animal Health's passion for continuous learning and creating valuable content. It was fascinating to gain insight into the tireless efforts they put in to provide pet parents with accurate and up-to-date information.

To learn more about LifeLearn Animal Health go to https://www.lifelearn.com/

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In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel Teichberg and Dr. Gary Richter discuss his unique journey into holistic veterinary medicine. Dr. Gary Richter, is a distinguished veterinarian, international bestselling author, and founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition. Dr. Richter is certified in veterinary acupuncture and chiropractic, and he understands the benefits of both conventional and holistic treatment methods.

Dr. Richter is a very passionate advocate for holistic pet care, and he believes that the best way to care for our pets is to use a combination of conventional and holistic treatment methods. This approach allows...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel Teichberg has a delightful conversation with VGP Member Dr. Donita McCants. This remarkable veterinarian earned her Bachelor's degree in biological sciences from the esteemed University of Georgia back in 2011, and then embarked on an exciting journey at Tuskegee University, where she completed her Veterinary training in 2015. She has a heart of gold and gives back to her community by passionately participating in various speaking engagements that ignite inspiration within the younger generation. As if that wasn't impressive enough, she also makes it a point to actively take part in...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel Teichberg chats with VGP Member and Office Manager, Michelle King from Sun Lakes Chandler Animal Clinic. Since 2005, Michelle has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to this noble profession. In 2008, Michelle transitioned into management roles while nurturing her fervor for veterinary practice management. It was destiny that brought Dr. Greenway into Michelle's life back in 2009 when their paths crossed for the first time. The opportunity to join forces at Sun Lakes Chandler Animal Clinic as the Office Manager became a reality she never anticipated but warmly welcomed when it presented itself.

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Join Rachel Teichberg on this edition of VetMed Mind as she discusses the fascinating journey of Dr. Brennan McKenzie in the field of veterinary medicine. Dr. McKenzie's path has been nothing short of incredible, with majors in both Biology and English literature, along with extensive fieldwork with pinnipeds. He went on to complete a master’s degree in animal behavior, studying environmental enrichment for captive primates, before pursuing various jobs in primatology.

Eventually, he attended the prestigious School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, where he ha...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel gets real about wellness with Dr. Marie Holowaychuk, a board-certified small animal emergency, and critical care specialist who is also a passionate advocate for veterinary team wellbeing. Dr. Holowaychuk is not only committed to the well-being of the veterinary team but also serves as a yoga and meditation teacher, wellness coach, and facilitator of workshops and retreats for veterinary clinics and organizations. Additionally, she provides individual and group coaching as well as online programs for veterinary team members. Dr. Holowaychuk recently launched a dynamic website, www.revivingvetmed.com, which...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Shawn gets nostalgic about his financial journey! Live Oak Bank played a pivotal role in Shawn's veterinary business journey and he was excited to sit down and speak with DC Castillo from Live Oak Bank. Hailing from the charming coastal town of Wilmington, NC, DC has been a valuable Live Oak Bank team member for over six years. With his extensive knowledge of the industry and innate problem-solving skills, DC has become a trusted advisor to many veterinarians across the nation. As part of the Live Oak Bank Veterinary team...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Dr. Caitlin DeWilde stops by the VetMed Mind to talk with Shawn McVey, MA, MSW about her passion for veterinary business, especially marketing. She founded The Social DVM, a consulting firm helping veterinary professionals learn how to manage and grow their social media, online reputation, and marketing strategies. She earned her DVM from the University of Illinois and received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award. Before stepping back from being a veterinarian to focus on her marketing passion, she served as medical director for a large hospital in St. Louis. Today...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Shawn McVey, MA, MSW interviews VGP Member, Michael Shirley from Family Pet Heath. Michael is the Chief Empowerment Officer of Family Pet Health in Murfreesboro, TN. He believes the key to success is hiring great people, equipping them with the tools they need, and then getting out of their way. Before opening Family Pet Health with his wife, Dr. Amy Shirley, Michael enjoyed a 16-year career in education as a 4-H agent and then as a high school agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. Michael and Amy have three children and...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

This was a special edition for Veterinary Growth Partners and the VetMed Mind. Rachel was lucky enough to sit down with vetmed communication skills and FRANK training educator Jane R. Shaw, DVM, PhD. She is a recognized expert in veterinarian-client-patient interactions. Dr. Shaw received her BS from Cornell University in 1990, DVM from Michigan State University in 1994, and received her PhD in Epidemiology at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada in 2004. Dr. Shaw is a Professor and University Distinguished Teaching Scholar at Colorado State University and implements the communication curriculum...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel interviews VGP Member and pet education advocate, Dr. Mondrian Contreras. A graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, he is the owner of the Carol Stream Animal Hospital and Central Bark Doggie Daycare. Dr. Contreras has written articles for Batavia Living Magazine and several children's books, including his most recently released story, Bubba's Bad Breath: The VetBros Take On Dental Care.

Dr. Contreras is a highly involved member of his community. He hosts an annual charity dog show event that helps raise money for...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Stephanie Conlan, CVT sat down with Rachel Teichberg, CVPM, CVBL, CCFP to discuss her veterinary journey that has lasted 22 years! Her interesting story has weaved from being a manager at UPS to entering the veterinary industry on the fast track! As a VGP Member, Stephanie shares her story of how Pathway Planning changed her life, her team, and the way in which she views her role when managing others. Her spirit is infectious in this episode and reminds everyone life as a practice manager can be very rewarding when you...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel interviews Dr. Niccole Bruno, CEO & Founder of blendvet, a veterinary hospital certification program in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). As an Afro-Latina, Dr. Bruno's navigation into veterinary medicine has had its share of challenges. During her career, the experiences of racism, misogyny, and stereotypical behaviors, caused Dr. Bruno to subliminally develop micro-aggressions and a sense of disengagement, for a profession she once dearly loved. Nevertheless, her perseverance prevailed and her passion for veterinary medicine resumed when she was offered the role of Medical Director, for a local New...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel sat down with VGP Member, Gina Gomez-Vidal, CVT a lifelong lover of veterinary medicine. She manages 2 general practice clinics and is getting ready to apply to vet school! Her journey in veterinary medicine has had some twists and turns but she has persevered to make her dream become a reality. Starting in the veterinary industry at 12 years old and having worked in all aspects of the hospital has certainly laid the groundwork for her to become a phenomenal veterinarian!

You can follow Gina's journey on LinkedIn

The first episode of our new season kicks off with one of our very own VGP Members! This year we have many more member stories in store for you and can not wait to share them with all of our listeners!

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel sat down with Dr. Mark Guise of Lockwillow Avenue Animal Clinic in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Dr. Guise was born into veterinary medicine, literally! He started as a kid working beside and learning from his amazing father Dr. Richard "Doc" Guise. Mark has dedicated and served much of...

Our last episode of 2022 is closing out the first season of the VetMed Mind! The next season kicks off on January 2023!

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Shawn and Rachel spent time learning and reminiscing with Debbie Boone, BS, CVPM. Debbie and Shawn have known each other for many years traveling the speaker circuit of the veterinary industry. Debbie has worked for the veterinary profession for over 35 years as a manager, consultant, writer, and speaker. She enjoys using her expertise to improve workplace culture and the well-being of veterinary professionals.  Debbie hosts The Bend, a...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel Teichberg interviews Dr. Jill Fournier of Sunrise Veterinary Services. Dr. Jill Fournier is a small animal veterinarian in Rural northern Michigan who has owned the clinic for almost 9 years. During the interview, she reflects on how far she has come from her early days as a lonely practice owner, with a husband going through chemo while raising 2 small children to a mom who is juggling a thriving 4 doctor practice and finding new adventures with an incredible team. Dr. Jill acknowledges many supports in her life that made this possible...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Rachel Teichberg, CVPM, CVBL interviews Dr. Emily Anhalt, a psychologist, emotional fitness consultant, and the CoFounder and Chief Clinical Officer of Coa, your gym for mental health. She studied psychology at the University of Michigan and attained Masters's and Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology in Berkeley, California. Dr. Anhalt has conducted extensive research with prominent psychologists and entrepreneurs about how leaders can improve their emotional fitness. Dr. Anhalt has matched more than 800 people into therapy and has collaborated with some of the fastest-growing technology companies in the world including Google...

In this episode of the VetMed Mind:

Shawn McVey, MA, MSW interviews a long-time entrepreneur friend, Dr. Dani McVety. Dr. McVety found her calling while volunteering with human hospice before veterinary school. Just months after graduation she founded Lap of Love Veterinary Hospice in Tampa, Florida, now a nationwide network helping families say goodbye to their beloved pets in the comfort of home.

Dr. McVety frequently writes and speaks for professional and lay audiences on many topics. She proudly graduated from the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine and is the youngest recipient of...