Veterinary Ramblings

This week we’re joined by Gunila Pedersen - ECC vet, life coach, and Muay Thai enthusiast who splits her time between Spain, Denmark, and the UK.From belly dancing gigs to night shifts in emergency practice, Gunila talks candidly about chasing variety, hitting burnout, and finding her way back to vet med with stronger boundaries and a clearer head. We dive into what drew her to emergency work, how coaching reframed her career (and life), and a challenging safeguarding case that underlines why protocols and support matter. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

This week we’re joined by Karis Matik, Marketing & Brand Director at Kernow Vet Messaging and dedicated StreetVet volunteer.From French baguettes to Cornwall’s hidden homelessness crisis, Karis shares stories of community, inclusion, and why volunteering has become such a central part of her life. We also dive into her work on making veterinary practices more accessible through inclusive communication and of course, her unforgettable 60-Second CPD.A lively conversation full of heart, humour, and a reminder that sometimes the biggest changes start with the smallest actions. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

Angela Willemsen’s career spans human nursing, the Royal Australian Air Force, veterinary medicine, and a PhD in infection control. She shares how her journey shaped a passion for public health, One Health, and teaching infection prevention in veterinary practice.Along the way, Angela also opens up about moon bear welfare, workplace culture, and why small changes in hygiene can make a big difference for both animals and people. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

What do rare spaniels, sled dogs, and civility at work have in common? In this episode, Sara Jackson shares how an accidental encounter with a Sussex Spaniel grew into a passion for breed advocacy and animal welfare.Along the way, she opens up about the quirks of veterinary life, the challenges of responsible breeding, and why kindness and positive psychology matter more than ever in our profession. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

To celebrate Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, we’re flipping the script - literally. Matt Rendle and Jo Megarity step in as guest hosts, giving Mike and Julian a taste of the guest seat for once.We discuss the vital role of veterinary nurses, their professional evolution, and notable experiences in the field. The discussion highlights the indispensable teamwork between vets and nurses, the evolving educational standards, and crucial issues like imposter syndrome and professional respect.This isn’t just another episode - it’s a proper celebration of the voices that deserve to be heard more often! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, Mike and Julian are joined by Andy Green – small animal vet, leadership mentor, and Director at the employee-owned Pennard Vets.Andy explores the importance of forming habits, nurturing a growth mindset, and the power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Learn how he has mastered the guitar, adopted daily practices, and even ventured into helicopter flying.Packed with practical tips on staying present, communicating effectively in vet consultations, and fostering a positive mindset, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to transform their daily routine and achieve mastery in various aspects of life. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, Mike and Julian are joined by Fergus Allerton, a leading voice in antimicrobial stewardship within veterinary medicine, to tackle the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).They kick things off with a light-hearted chat about sore throats and antibiotics before diving into the complexities of AMR and the global risks it poses. Fergus breaks down how antimicrobial resistance develops, why responsible antibiotic use is critical, and highlights key initiatives like the PROTECT ME guidelines and Antibiotic Amnesty.The conversation also explores parallels between human and veterinary medicine, the role of education—especially for children, and how One Health links human and animal health.Fergus shares his personal experiences, including his work as an independent visitor with Barnardo’s and his passion for veterinary medicine. To wrap up, he takes on the 60-second CPD challenge, offering practical, actionable steps for vets to make a real impact in antimicrobial stewardship.🎧 Tune in to find out how YOU can play a role in protecting antibiotics for future generations! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

In this episode, Dr Dave Nicol joins Julian and Mike to share his journey from veterinary practice owner to author and mentor for aspiring vets. Together, they explore the complexities of leadership within veterinary medicine, the vital role of mentorship, and Dr Nicol's innovative approach to enhancing both emotional and practical support for new graduates. The conversation also touches on his passion for triathlons, the importance of rest and recovery, and key considerations in end-of-life care for pets. With a mix of personal stories, professional insights, and Dr Nicol's forward-thinking ideas, this episode offers valuable advice on making veterinary practice more sustainable and fulfilling. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that blends experience, empathy, and expertise. ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★