Blunt Dissection

The keen-eared among you will recognize this voice. And yes - you’d be right.This is ever-wisening Dr Peter Weinstein. (Yes, we meant Wisening, not wizening however much we were tempted by the latter.)Peter is one of those rare figures in veterinary medicine who has seen the profession from every angle. From kennel kid at 15 to practice owner, from board-level leadership to educator, from clinician to one of the clearest thinkers on the business and structure of veterinary medicine today.But what makes this conversation different is timing.Because this isn’t a comfortable moment for our profession.Costs are rising. Clients are pushing back. Teams are stretched. Transactions are falling while prices climb. And underneath it all, something more fundamental is shifting.Trust.In this episode, Peter and I sit down face-to-face to unpack what’s really happening in veterinary medicine right now. We talk about the economic pressure building beneath the surface, the unintended consequences of rapid growth and consolidation, and why the profession feels… wobbly.We explore why leadership, not hustle, is the answer. Why systems matter more than individuals. Why communication is the missing skill in most practices. And why, if we don’t rebuild trust deliberately, we risk losing the very foundation this profession was built on.This episode is reflective, challenging, and ultimately optimistic. Because if we get this right, the future of veterinary medicine doesn’t just survive - it becomes stronger than ever.Episode Highlights[00:02:00] Meet Dr Peter Weinstein[00:12:00] Reacting vs responding under pressure[00:14:00] Are we in a veterinary recession?[00:17:00] Fewer clients, higher prices - the real maths[00:19:00] “Trust is the word of 2026”[00:23:00] The pandemic boom that broke the system[00:28:00] What happens when the leader leaves[00:31:00] Why leadership is the real problem[00:34:00] Systems vs people - what actually holds a practice up[00:43:00] The hidden cost of care problem[00:49:00] Why clients don’t understand us[00:52:00] Gold standard vs real-world care[01:00:00] Why communication beats clinical skill[01:06:00] “This is how we’ve always done it”[01:08:00] Why the future is still optimisticEpisode LinksThe E-Myth Veterinarian – Dr Peter WeinsteinWestern University of Health Sciences (College of Veterinary Medicine)James Herriot Museum, ThirskToday’s Veterinary Business: My Daughter, the Veterinary Student by Dr. Peter WeinsteinConnect with Dr Peter WeinsteinLinkedIn: Dr Peter WeinsteinVeterinary business and leadership education (Western University)Why does leading your practice feel harder than it should?The Practice Growth Reflection is a short, 10-minute tool that shows you the stage your practice has reached and the leadership changes that can reduce pressure, strengthen your team, and help your practice run more smoothly.Start your Practice Growth Reflection and get instant clarity on what needs to evolve next.Follow Dr. Dave Nicol for More Leadership Insights:Follow Dr. Dave: @drdavenicolLearn more about the Veterinary Leadership AcademyEnjoyed this episode?Leave a review on iTunesShare it with a colleagueStart a conversation in your practice about what needs to change

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 GraceEpisode 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)Center for Understanding in Conflict (Gary Friedman) Connect with Debra Vey Voda-Hamilton:Connect with Debra on LinkedinWant more leadership tools and tough-love wisdom?Follow me: @drdavenicolLearn more about Vet Leadership Training: Veterinary Leadership AcademyEnjoyed this episode?Do us a favour:Leave a review on iTunes. It helps people find the show.Share it with a colleague who needs to hear it.

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 RideEpisode LinksWellHaven Pet HealthConnect with Dr. Bob LesterIf 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.

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 MomentEpisode LinksDr. 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

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/1910461709Nowzad 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

On today’s show, I’m joined by veterinarian, multiple practice owner and digital storyteller, Dr. Cody Creelman. Join us as we talk about Dr. Cody’s exciting journey in and out of veterinary practice, culminating in his new practice FenVet, an ultramodern clinic looking to reimagine veterinary care.Dr. Cody began his veterinary career with a focus on large animal practice, where he quickly became a respected figure, known for his dedication and expertise. Amongst being a veterinarian, multiple practice owner, Cody is also a digital storyteller—sharing his story and daily adventures in entertaining and educational ways that have garnered over 20 million views, followed by loyal cohorts of ranchers, veterinary professionals and the public alike.From working a construction job seven days a week to pay for university, to veterinary graduate, to partner, to multiple practice owner — Cody didn’t catch his breath. However, in 2019, a series of unexpected events led him to pivot dramatically, leaving behind his established career to explore new horizons. Cody loaded up his family and set off into the unknown. After swimming in America’s tidal pools, hiking Redwood’s National Park amongst the oldest trees in the world and sleeping out under the stars, a new challenge started to emerge for Cody.Driven by a desire to innovate and improve the veterinary experience for both clients and practitioners. He opened FenVet in Airdrie, Alberta in May 2021. A new ultramodern clinic, mostly working with dogs and cats. FenVet's mission was clear from the start: to reimagine the veterinary care experience for the betterment of patients, clients, and the FenVet team. Born from Cody’s appetite for innovation, the clinic focuses on continually challenging traditional animal care paradigms with the ultimate aim of extraordinary experience and extraordinary innovation.So sit back, grab a cup of tea and enjoy my conversation with the one-and-only Dr. Cody Creelman.LinksFenVet: https://fenvet.com/FenVet's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fenvetclinic/Follow Dr Cody on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codycreelman/Connect with Dr. Cody: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/cody-creelman-46b78156Episode Outline00:03:41 - Cody's Early Career and Achievements00:05:30 - Career Pivot and Personal Reflection00:11:21 - Finding Purpose Through Change00:13:21 - Embracing Entrepreneurship00:18:10 - Overcoming Anxiety and Embracing Vulnerability00:26:22 - The Concept of Mortality in Career Choices00:29:18 - The Genesis of Finn Vet00:35:02 - The Blue Ocean Strategy in Veterinary Medicine00:43:57 - Creating a Seven-Star Customer Experience00:51:03 - Building an Empowered and Motivated Team00:59:15 - Hiring and Cultivating the Right Culture01:03:40 - Expanding with a Sourdough Starter Culture01:08:12 - Navigating Economic Challenges in Veterinary Medicine01:14:00 - Conclusion

Can Vet Heroes Get To Net Zeros? Sustainable Futures, with Dr. Jeremy WatsonAbout the GuestDr. Jeremy Watson completed his Bachelor of Veterinary Science with honours at the University of Melbourne in 1986. He established the Brimbank Vet Clinic in 1998, a small animal practice in suburban Melbourne. During 2011, the clinic was rebuilt incorporating the latest environmental design features, facilitating a pathway to make the practice carbon neutral.In 2013, Dr. Watson achieved membership by examination to the Australian & New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in the discipline of small animal surgery.Dr. Watson joined Vets for Climate Action in 2020 to help amplify the role that veterinary teams can play in motivating our community to take urgent action on climate change. Within this organisation, he has been working specifically on the Climate Care Program for Veterinary Practices.LinksBrimbank Veterinary Practice: https://www.brimbankvet.com.au/ Connect on LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-watson-29243151 Sustainable Clinic AVA Article: https://www.ava.com.au/digest/from-around-the-ava/2021/november/2/jeremy-watson/ Episode DescriptionIn this episode of Blunt Dissection, we dive deep into the quest for net zero carbon emissions in veterinary medicine, guided by Dr. Jeremy Watson, a pioneer in the field of veterinary sustainability. Dr. Watson brings to light the crucial role of integrating business culture and strategic planning in veterinary practices to foster a conducive environment for sustainability efforts. He underscores the necessity for management's commitment to spearhead this journey, through strategic fund allocation, visionary leadership, and setting a clear direction for the practice's future. The absence of such unified leadership and vision, he warns, could hamper efforts to curb carbon emissions, depriving them of the essential support needed for success.Dr. Watson further explores the power of collective action, emphasizing the importance of engaging with a broad spectrum of stakeholders - from manufacturers and distributors to equipment makers, end-users, and disposal services. He illustrates how such collaborations can effectively tackle challenges and pave the way for adopting more sustainable practices across the board. For example, the adoption of sustainable anesthesia practices, such as low-flow anesthesia or total intravenous anesthesia, achieved through the concerted efforts of anesthesiologists, equipment manufacturers, and veterinary nurses.Highlighting the difficult pathway to achieving net zero carbon emissions, Dr. Watson discusses the importance of setting clear, achievable targets. He references the science-based target initiative, advocating for the establishment of intermediate goals over the next 5 to 10 years, with the ultimate objective of reaching net zero by 2050. These targets, he argues, serve as critical milestones, guiding veterinary practices towards systematically reducing their carbon footprint.In summary, this episode of Blunt Dissection underscores the indispensable role of strategic alignment among practice management, industry partners, and professional organizations in embedding sustainable practices within veterinary medicine. Through collective efforts and clear goal-setting, veterinary practices are well-positioned to make significant strides towards a sustainable, net zero future.Join us as we navigate the intricacies of sustainability in veterinary practices, illuminated by Dr. Jeremy Watson's pioneering insights and strategic guidance.Episode Outline[00:03:59] Net Zero Carbon Emissions in Vet Practice.[00:04:50] Australia on climate change impact.[00:10:18] Carbon Neutral Journey[00:14:14] Pet's cremation and alternatives.[00:15:46] Labeling and Climate Change Denial.[00:19:04] Climate change evidence over time.[00:23:37] Climate change implications discussed.[00:25:27] Impact on animal health.[00:34:50] The path to net zero.[00:38:33] Alignment of business culture.[00:42:12] Anesthesia and carbon emissions.[00:45:22] Setting sustainability targets.[00:50:46] Carbon neutral veterinary practice.[01:02:24] Changing paper to iPads.[01:08:41] Easy ways to reduce emissions.

Tune in to the latest episode of the Blunt Dissection Podcast, where we are honored to have the remarkable Dr. Chloe Buiting, an Australian wildlife veterinarian, conservationist, published author, and consultant for Fauna & Flora International, join us. With an impressive background as an Official Advocate for Kensington Palace's Earthshot Prize and a member of the Science Advisory Committee at Zoos Victoria, the world's first carbon-neutral zoological facility, Dr. Chloe brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to our conversation.Join us as we delve into Dr. Chloe's deep-rooted love for our natural world, cultivated during her childhood on the breathtaking Lord Howe Island. In this episode, she generously shares her early influences, veterinary heroes, and the transformative path that led her to become a dedicated conservation vet. Prepare to be inspired as she opens up about her book, 'The Jungle Doctor,' revealing the motivations, challenges, and profound insights behind its creation. Together, we explore the impact of conservation work and embark on a thought-provoking discussion about the effects of COVID-19 on wildlife, navigating existential crises, and more. In the end, we unravel Dr. Chloe's relationship with Instagram and dive into a rapid-fire round of questions, getting to know the real person behind the inspiring work she does. This engaging episode is brimming with invaluable lessons and advice for the next generation of veterinarians. Don't miss out!Outline of this episode:• [0:48] Meet Dr. Chloe Buiting: Discover the story behind the passionate wildlife veterinarian and conservationist.• [06:30] Early Influences on Lord Howe Island: Explore the formative experiences that shaped Chloe's love for nature and wildlife.• [09:00] Veterinary Heroes: Learn about the people who influenced and motivated Dr. Chloe along her veterinary journey.• [13:05] Path to Conservation Vet Work: Dive into the pivotal moments and factors that led Dr. Chloe to dedicate her career to conservation veterinary work.• [17:07] Navigating Existential Crisis: Discover how Dr. Chloe finds her way through a challenging phase in her life.• [20:30] Breaking Stereotypes: Explore the truth behind whether Conservation Vets have a penchant for breaking things and the deeper meaning behind their work.• [26:18] "The Jungle Doctor" by Chloe Buiting: Gain insights into Dr. Chloe's book, including its motivation, inspirations, and the challenges she faced during its creation.• [31:08] Balancing Act: Explore how Dr. Chloe manages the mental challenges of her work and maintains her well-being in a demanding environment.• [34:31] Motherhood and Purpose: Learn how becoming a mother has influenced Dr. Chloe's purpose and perspective in her conservation efforts.• [36:25] The State of Affairs: Get an update on Dr. Chloe's current endeavors and how things are shaping up in her professional journey.• [38:16] Stories, Learnings, and Highlights: Delve into the captivating anecdotes, valuable lessons, and standout moments from Dr. Chloe's career.• [42:31] Impact of Conservation Work: Discover the significant impacts that conservation efforts have made so far, including achievements and ongoing challenges.• [50:56] COVID's Wildlife Impact: Explore the effects of the global pandemic on wildlife populations, particularly primates, and the importance of addressing these challenges.• [55:44] Advice for Future Vets: Listen to Dr. Chloe's insightful advice and words of wisdom for the next generation of veterinarians.• [1:01:22] The Power of Networking and Mentoring: Understand the value of building connections and finding mentors within the veterinary profession.• [1:08:06] Loop Abroad Engagements: Learn about Dr. Chloe's involvement and experiences with the Loop Abroad program, facilitating international study abroad programs for aspiring wildlife medicine and conservation professionals.• [1:14:43] Instagram and Conservation: Gain insights into Dr. Chloe's relationship with Instagram and how she utilizes the platform to advance conservation efforts.• [1:16:36] Rapid Fire with Dr. Chloe Buiting: Engage in a rapid-fire round of questions, offering a glimpse into Dr. Chloe's personality and perspectives. Resources Mentioned:The Jungle Doctor by Chloe Buitinghttps://www.amazon.com/Jungle-Doctor-Adventures-International-Wildlife-ebook/dp/B08MVMKKDQModern-day wildlife conservation TEDTalk by Nick Bubbhttps://www.ted.com/talks/nick_bubb_modern_day_wildlife_conservationZoobiguity by Barbara Natterson-Horowitz & Kathryn Bowers https://www.amazon.com/Zoobiquity-Astonishing-Connection-Between-Animal/dp/0307477436The Midnight Library by Matt Haighttps://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Library-Novel-Matt-Haig/dp/0525559477Loop Abroadhttps://www.loopabroad.com/Fauna & Flora Internationalhttps://www.fauna-flora.org/Connect with Dr. Chloe Buiting: • LinkedIn• Instagram• Website

On today’s show, I’m joined by Dr Robert Hilsenroth. Dr. Hilsenroth was born and raised in the Washington, D.C. area and graduated from the University of Georgia in 1971! After a year in practice, he took the bold step of moving to Colorado and opening a small animal practice as a relatively inexperienced vet and businessman. Things clearly worked out, as he owned the practice for the next 19 years.There were highs and lows, including frustration with how the media handled veterinary issues. As such, Dr Hilsenroth was drawn to develop his media skills to better contribute to and improve the quality of reporting on important local and national veterinary issues. This investment paid off, and for a decade, he was employed by the ABC television affiliate KUSA as their “pet health expert,” producing weekly reports on pet and animal issues.  In addition, he hosted radio talk shows and wrote weekly newspaper columns.In 1991, his career changed course quite dramatically and sold his practice and began a 13-year tenure with the Morris Animal Foundation, an organisation funding health studies for dogs, cats, horses and wildlife. Initially joining as the Staff Veterinary Communications Officer, Dr. Hilsenroth’s skills allowed him to be identified and successfully appointed as the Foundation’s Executive Director.When he began this role, the Foundation was funding only two studies in the Zoo & Wildlife Division, while there were 10 or more studies in each of the other Divisions. When he got done more than a decade later, the same division was funding more than 30 studies.Dr. Hilsenroth “retired” from Morris Animal Foundation in April 2004 and moved to northern Florida to enjoy fishing and the quiet life. Or so he thought… Talent, however does not often get the luxury of going quietly into the night… and it wasn’t long before the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, a group he had worked closely with while at the Morris Animal Foundation, came calling on his leadership experience. Those calls, while initially rebuffed, were, in the end, effective and in 2005, Dr Hilsenroth was appointed to the role of Executive Director of the Association. A position he still holds nearly 18 years later! Quite possibly a record in delaying retirement.Aside from the enormous impact on zoo animals and conservation Dr Hilsenroth has made, he has made just as significant an impact on people -  amassing a wealth of learned and taught leadership experience during his career. Including completion of Harvard’s Executive Education program “Strategic Perspectives in Non-Profit Management”.But before we jump into today’s episode, here is a quick word from today’s show sponsor…Introducing The Vet Career Concierge - the easy way to find your dream job. It's a brilliantly simple concept.Instead of wasting time searching through thousands of practice jobs that might be a good fit - but frequently aren’t. Let The Vet Career Concierge do the hard work. All you have to do is register, and tell us about your skills and what you are looking for from your next practice.Then your Career Concierge goes to work filtering, matching and approaching only practices that are a good fit. If you like the sound of a practice and want to meet, your concierge will coach you through the interview process, help with negotiations and work to ensure you have a smooth transition into practice when you accept a role. They'll even stay in touch with scheduled career check-ins to make sure you are happy.The service is open to vets and vet nurses with at least ONE YEAR in practice and legally able to work in the USA, Canada, UK, EU or Australia.To register visit vetxinternational.com/career-concierge. And all registrants will be entered into a prize draw where you could win an apple watch, a magnum of champagne or an amazon gift card.Registration is free so head to vetxinternational.com/career-concierge to sign up today.Now back to the show...The only way to become a guest on this Blunt Dissection is to be someone I am really curious to learn more about. Sometimes guests appear on my radar due to listener recommendations; other times, I find them through publications. But in Robert’s case, it was an entirely random meeting at lunch while preparing for my sessions at VMX ‘23 that resulted in an almost instant connection.Within a few seconds of listening to Dr Hilsenroth, my ears were wide open. Within five minutes, I cursed myself for not having my recording equipment rolling! His career is fascinating, but his story-telling ability and life experiences are up there with the best. I hope very much you have a similar reaction as we dive into his story, both human and animal. So without further ado, I invite you to sit back and enjoy my conversation with the fantastic Dr Robert Hilsenroth.

On today's episode of Blunt Dissection, we are doing something a little bit different. For the last six years, I have been interviewing people who are doing remarkable things in veterinary medicine. But this year I feel like getting curious about what different models and thinking is out there. Why?  - The reason is pretty simple. We are in what seems like an unsustainable moment where we are haemorrhaging talent of all kinds out of the veterinary profession. This comes at a time when there is increased demand in terms of quantity and availability of service but also in terms of quality of service. We are haemorrhaging talent in the face of increased stress, which starts at university, driven by the soaring costs of education. A stress that previous generations did not have.And yet acting as a counter-balance  we see huge improvements to the quality of life. Working hours per week have never been lower. And we now speak openly, freely and widely about the mental health issues that have confronted this profession for generations. This of course is all playing as we observe the sweeping changes to the ownership structure of veterinary practices. Gone, it seems, are the days of independent practice as we move into the days of market consolidation and multinational corporate medicine. The chief decision makers are now shareholders or financiers whose commitment is primarily to the ongoing financial viability and profit of those businesses generate for distant shareholders. That's quite different to the commitments made in the boardroom of smaller independent clinics practices owned outright by vets - where animal welfare is the primary driving factor. So it’s against this backdrop we explore what's going on in veterinary medicine and we look to the future, not the past. We’ll look to salve the pain of today by looking at the balm of tomorrow’s innovation.I’ll be exploring business models from around the world where people are challenging the status quo. So let's dive into the ideas from today, that may be niche but one day might just change veterinary medicine for the better. My first guest is Dr. Sara Pizano. She works at Team Shelter USA, an organization that has transformed the way humane societies operate in the United States. Now, she’s teamed up with the Open Door Veterinary Collective, and has turned her attention to making veterinary care accessible to as many people as possible, while remaining profitable.The Open Door Veterinary Collective operates two practices, doing things very differently, and challenging the myth that people who can’t afford veterinary care aren’t worthy of veterinary care. The results they have generated so far are very impressive and call into question both the ethics and economics of “Gold Standard Care”. There’s a lot to dig into here so let's jump right into the episode with the awesome Dr. Sara Pizano. Episode Outline[00:00] - Dr. Dave Nicol begins the episode with a short precap.[03:05] - Can we rely on traditional methods in the veterinary business in current economic conditions?  [3:30] - How is the increase in pet ownership that occurred during the Covid-19 outbreak now contributing to overcrowding in animal shelters due to high inflation?[11:10] - Dr. Sara Pizano talks about Open Door Veterinary Collective Business model, explaining how practices can have sustainable business models while making enhanced veterinary care accessible to as many individuals as possible.[19:30] - Dr. Sara Pizano talks about the spectrum of care, the client-centered, evidence-based treatment that achieves positive results for animals with minimal resources. [21:45] - Dr. Sara and Dr. Dave list the primary reasons driving pet owners' decision to forego premium standard care.[28:15] - Does the Open Door Business model impact the cash flow?[31:50] - Dr. Sara explains how to operate an efficient practice.[37: 50] - Dr. Sara and Dave talk about compassion fatigue, explaining its effect on the veterinary profession.[46:40] - Dr. Sara and Dave discuss the trust issue among pet owners regarding veterinary care.[50:30] - Dr. Sara talks about the management aspect of the model, explaining how technology and automation underpin Open Door Business model.[56:26] - Dr. Sara gives insights into the research based on six years of billing records of 397 veterinary clinics. The research is the base of the credit outsourcing model.[01:06:00] - Dr. Sara gives final thoughts on the business model.[01:08:15] - Dr. Dave wraps the episode.

On today’s show, I’m joined by David McCormick.David is a veterinary valuation appraiser and transaction specialist, working with veterinarians throughout their ownership journey to help evaluate financial health so owners can make better decisions. To give that a better outline David, in the same way, that veterinarians look at lab tests and x-rays to diagnose disease in animals, uses financial reporting tools to diagnose and treat unhealthy practices, or helps new owners understand their numbers from the beginning. In short, he’s a veterinary business health wizard who can read the tea leaves of your accounts and accurately predict much about your practice without ever walking in the door. A skill that every practice owner or manager would do very well to master too.His career pathway to veterinary medicine was not direct and frankly is worth an interview on its own merits,  with animal encounters in exciting, remote places and a near miss as a musician featuring highly.  But it was his father, Larry, an MBA-holding Veterinarian that was the magnetic draw back into a world he was immersed in as a child. More on that in the interview.David holds degrees in Science, Environmental Resource Management, and a Masters in Agricultural Education. He’s a regular and hugely popular speaker on the veterinary world speaking circuit, a charter member of Vet Partners, and serving as president in 2006. And was the Practice Management Education Manager for Western States Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas for seven years.Money management is massively important for business and by extension physical and mental health. Well-managed businesses which return good profit margins allow for better staff salaries, more investment in new things to help standards of care, and a fair return for owners. Having seen him keep the attention of the PSI vet symposium attendees the day before, on a subject more prone to glazing the eyes of veterinary professionals I knew I’d found my guy to talk about a subject that is taboo in the world of veterinary business - Profit is not a dirty word!Regardless of your age or stage in vet med, this might be one of the most important conversations you hear because, in the end, economics determines just about everything. So enjoy this, my conversation with the financial wizard and frisbee chasing David McCormick. Today's show was made possible through the generous sponsorship of VetX Thrive - the course where vets like you go to learn the professional skills needed to have a happy and financially successful career as a vet. Learn more and sign up at www.vetxinternational.com today.

In today's show, we visit rural Michigan and find ourselves on a horse farm… Home to none other than veterinary pain management guru Dr. Mike Petty.Mike is a graduate of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University. He has been the owner of Arbor Pointe Veterinary Hospital since 1985. And it was here that he dedicated himself to becoming a pet pain management specialist, developing his practice to include the Animal Pain Center, a hugely popular service drawing pet owners from far and wide. Within this particular niche, Dr Petty expanded his knowledge and skills to encompass the most up-to-date and compassionate treatments available. He is certified as … and wait for it… a Veterinary Pain Practitioner, a Medical Veterinary Acupuncturist, a Canine Rehabilitation Therapist, and he’s a Diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management.In 2016 he published his first book Dr. Petty's Pain Relief for Dogs: The Complete Medical and Integrative Guide to Treating Pain. Mike is the past president of the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management and the co-author of the AAHA/AAFP 2015 Pain Guidelines. He is an international speaker, highly published author with articles in several veterinary journals and serves in an advisory capacity to several pharmaceutical companies on topics of pain management. Now before we jump into the show, a quick word from today’s show sponsor…The VetX community.We all know that imposter syndrome, burnout, angry clients, and burnout are real and cause many vets to leave their jobs and careers. But what you might not know is that there is a place where you can learn and master the essential street skills for how to be a great GP vet upon which you can build a sustainable, fulfilling career. A place where you can access mentors view jobs from practices that care about culture and access new weekly articles and podcasts dedicated to your career. That place is called VetX and you can access all of the resources including a career planning tool, The RACE accredited Thrive Professional Skills course, hundreds of articles, podcasts,  live mentor Q&A sessions, swag and more.To join hundreds of other vets who have changed their careers for the better go to www.vetxinternational.com today to register for free!Now back to the show..Chatting with Dr Petty was a real privilege, he’s one of the people others frequently recommend to be a guest on the show - for his knowledge of pain management, but also his contribution to veterinary medicine and affable personality.We explore the background and career of Dr Petty covering everything from Vespas to Lasers (and much in between). So if you need some pain management advice or even some career inspiration, this is going to be a show you don’t want to miss.So, sit back, get comfy and enjoy this, my conversation with Veterinary Medicine’s pain management maestro, Dr. Mike Petty.

In today’s episode of Blunt Dissection, we’re joined by the real-life Forrest Gump, Rob Pope. Rob is best known for being the first person to complete the famous Forrest Gump run: 15,621 miles, five times across the United States. Rob is a graduate of the London Royal Veterinary College, an ER vet, winner of the Liverpool marathon, a qualifier for the Australian Olympic marathon team, ultra-athlete, and the first man to complete the Forrest Gump Run across America. Averaging nearly 40 miles each day, Rob embarked on this mind-boggling journey across the United States to raise both funds and awareness for causes he really believes in - Peace Direct and the World Wildlife Fund.  His journey took him across the US 4.77 times, covering over 15,700 miles and earning a Guinness World Record. In 2021 he released his book documenting the journey, “Becoming Forrest”.He has also finished as top Northern European on the six-day, self-sufficient Marathon des Sables in the Sahara desert, billed as one of “The World’s Toughest Footrace” - and that was despite developing pneumonia during the penultimate stage!To date, his incredible efforts have raised more than £100,000 for charities including the world wildlife fund.Rob hosts the Red Bull podcast called “How to be Superhuman”, where he chats to other similarly insanely brilliant (or perhaps brilliantly insane) endurance athletes of all backgrounds to hear what makes them “superhuman”.Oh, and in addition to his vet degree, he also holds a degree in veterinary pathology and a PhD in Veterinary Medicine.If you like running you are going to LOVE this episode. If you need a lift, Rob is your walking pep talk. And if you just love some vet life philosophy from two dudes with weird accents… we’ve got you covered. Enjoy this conversation with the superhuman running machine, Dr Rob Pope. Outline of this episode:[0:00] The introduction begins. [03:22] The episode begins with Rob describing who he is and what he does.[07:39] Explaining the decision to run across America… five times.[17:00] Rob shares his interesting experience after asking to use a stranger’s bathroom in Texas.[20:50] How Rob worked around his visa timeframe.[26:40] Rob’s biggest takeaways from his time in America.[33:34] Preparing for the Forrest Gump run.[41:30] Rob’s warm-up and cool-down practices for long-distance runs.[48:43] Advice to budding runners.[54:54] How to enjoy your career in veterinary medicine.[1:04:02] Rob discusses his approach to goal-setting.[1:08:37] Being intentional about rest and relaxation.[1:12:51] Rob reveals his go-to running earphones and playlist.[1:16:55] How to be superhuman.[1:25:25] Overcoming the wall of life.