show episodes
 
Artwork

1
Reviving Vet Med

Dr. Marie Holowaychuk

icon
Unsubscribe
icon
icon
Unsubscribe
icon
Monthly
 
Join Dr. Marie Holowaychuk, board-certified small animal emergency and critical care specialist, as she explores the world of mental health and wellbeing, as it relates to veterinary professionals.
  continue reading
 
Are you lost as to what to do next in your veterinary career? You’ve been a vet for a number of years and have reached a stage in your career where you know you’re not satisfied and you need change. But you feel financially trapped, and you're probably unaware of other career options, especially close to where you live. Where on earth do you even start? I'm here to help. My name is Steve Oehley and I'm someone just like you. I'm a veterinarian who struggled in my own career. Changing jobs mu ...
  continue reading
 
Loading …
show series
 
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming veterinary medicine, from enhancing diagnostics to streamlining workflows. But what does this mean for the wellbeing of veterinary professionals? In this insightful episode, we chat with Dr. Christopher Pinard, veterinary oncologist, CEO and co-founder of ANI.ML Health Inc., and leader in AI innovatio…
  continue reading
 
Veterinary technicians and technologists are the backbone of every practice, yet many face financial challenges that can feel overwhelming—especially when living paycheck to paycheck. During National Vet Tech Week and RVT Appreciation Month, we’re shining a light on this often-overlooked aspect of wellbeing: financial health. In this empowering epi…
  continue reading
 
Veterinary workplaces are fast-paced, emotionally charged, and often stressful—which can lead to misunderstandings, miscommunication, and burnout. But what if there was a way to better understand ourselves and each other, so we could reduce tension and work together more effectively? In this episode, Jolene Watson—RVT, certified Myers-Briggs® pract…
  continue reading
 
Conversations about suicide can be uncomfortable—but they’re essential. In this thoughtful and deeply informative episode, we speak with Dr. Jen Brandt, Director of Member Wellbeing Initiatives at the American Veterinary Medical Association, to talk about suicide prevention, stigma reduction, and building truly supportive workplaces in veterinary m…
  continue reading
 
Veterinary teams are no strangers to trauma—emergency cases, euthanasia, client distress, and internal conflict can all leave an emotional mark. Yet, so often, we rush past these moments without stopping to process them. What if we didn’t have to carry that weight alone? In this essential episode, we speak with Julie Morse Elliott, MPCC Provisional…
  continue reading
 
Conflict is a part of every workplace—but in veterinary medicine, it’s often something we avoid at all costs. In this episode of Reviving Vet Med, Dr. Marie Holowaychuk explores why conflict avoidance is so common among veterinary teams and how it can silently erode trust, collaboration, and even patient care. Through practical strategies and real-…
  continue reading
 
Veterinary medicine isn’t just a career—it’s often a core part of who we are. But what happens when the role of “veterinarian” starts to overshadow the rest of our identity? How do we stay connected to ourselves when the profession feels all-consuming? In this reflective episode, Dr. Melodie Chan—longtime veterinarian, industry leader, and mentor—s…
  continue reading
 
In this calming bonus episode, Dr. Marie Holowaychuk invites you to pause and gently lay down some of the emotional weight you may be carrying—grief, stress, responsibility, or expectations. Whether you're a veterinary professional navigating a difficult season or simply someone feeling the heaviness of the day-to-day, this 8-minute guided meditati…
  continue reading
 
Grief is a constant presence in veterinary medicine—quiet, cumulative, and often ignored. From euthanasia and patient loss to a co-worker resigning or a colleague moving away, grief takes many forms in the lives of veterinary professionals. But what happens when we don’t acknowledge it? In this thought-provoking episode, we speak with Kira Valentin…
  continue reading
 
Neurodiversity remains a largely misunderstood and under-discussed topic in veterinary medicine, despite the profound ways it shapes how professionals experience and engage with their work. In this episode, we speak with Helen Allwood — small animal vet turned coach and trainer — about her journey from veterinary practice to coaching, following a l…
  continue reading
 
Allyship isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a necessary practice for creating safe, inclusive, and affirming environments in veterinary medicine. In this episode, we explore what it means to be a true ally to LGBTQIA+ veterinary professionals, especially during Pride Month, but also throughout the year. We unpack the mental health disparities faced by LG…
  continue reading
 
Perinatal mental health is still a taboo topic in many medical professions — including veterinary medicine — despite the very real impact it has on professionals during pregnancy and postpartum. In this episode, we speak with Dr. Emily Singler — veterinarian, mom of four, and author of Pregnancy and Postpartum Considerations for the Veterinary Team…
  continue reading
 
In a profession where high stress and long hours often drown out the signals from our bodies, tuning into those quiet whispers can be a radical act of self-preservation. In this episode, we sit down with Simmi Latulippe—functional medicine consultant, menopause coach, and trauma-informed yoga teacher—to explore the intersection of hormonal health, …
  continue reading
 
Creating a workplace where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s essential for effective teamwork and sustainable wellbeing. In this episode, Avery Alston, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Veterinary Emergency Group, shares how fostering belonging can transform veterinary workplaces from the i…
  continue reading
 
Veterinary medical record documentation is a major source of stress — often piling up after hours and impacting both care quality and veterinarian wellbeing. In this episode, Dr. Katie Gallagher, general practice vet and co-founder of Scribenote, shares how her AI-powered scribe tool is helping vets stay present with patients, catch up on records f…
  continue reading
 
Veterinary professionals often face intense emotional challenges — from navigating difficult euthanasia conversations to managing compassion fatigue and moral distress. But did you know that social workers are increasingly becoming essential allies in these moments? In this episode, we explore the growing field of veterinary social work and how it …
  continue reading
 
Neurodivergence in veterinary medicine is more common than you might think — and it brings both incredible strengths and unique challenges. In this episode, we explore what neurodiversity really means, breaking down conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and anxiety-related neurotypes. You’ll learn how these differences shape the way individuals t…
  continue reading
 
In this special 60th episode, we invite you to join us for an 8-minute equanimity meditation designed to help veterinary professionals navigate the emotional highs and lows of the profession. This practice will guide you through a series of mindfulness techniques to cultivate steadiness and compassion—both for your patients and for yourself. This m…
  continue reading
 
Feeling drained and disconnected from your work? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into the emotional challenges that many veterinary professionals face: burnout, compassion fatigue, and empathy fatigue. Though often used interchangeably, each of these issues has its own distinct impact on our well-being. We’ll unpack what sets them apart,…
  continue reading
 
Timed to coincide with Canada’s Pink Shirt Day, we explore a challenge that many veterinary professionals face: managing rude client interactions. These behaviors, though often not personal, can profoundly impact veterinary teams, leading to burnout, emotional exhaustion, and even decisions to leave the profession. By understanding the emotional an…
  continue reading
 
From high rates of depression among veterinary students to significant psychological distress in practice teams, this episode tackles the challenges and importance of mental health conversations in the veterinary profession. Building on the momentum of Bell Let’s Talk Day in Canada, we explore the concerning mental health statistics within veterina…
  continue reading
 
 Are you not satisfied in your veterinary career? You want something more, but you don't know where to start. Hopefully, this podcast has been a help in your career, and to the loyal fans of Next Step Vet: Sorry. Sorry I haven't continued to support you in your professional journey, and that you haven't seen a podcast episode for six months, there'…
  continue reading
 
While bubble baths and spa days are nice, true self-care goes much deeper—it's about prioritizing actions that genuinely support your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. During this episode, we share personal stories and evidence-based insights into why self-care isn’t selfish but essential, especially for caregiving professionals like veter…
  continue reading
 
Technology is deeply integrated into veterinary practice, from managing schedules to engaging with clients and staying connected through social media. However, excessive screen time comes at a cost, impacting mental health, sleep, and work-life balance. In this episode, we explore the importance of digital wellness for veterinary professionals and …
  continue reading
 
Being on-call is a reality that many veterinary professionals face, often bringing long hours, interrupted sleep, and the pressure of urgent decision-making. The unpredictability of being on-call can disrupt personal lives, creating tension between professional responsibilities and the need for rest and recovery. This constant state of readiness ca…
  continue reading
 
The Big Five Personality Traits—Openness to Experience, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism—are key factors in shaping how individuals think, feel, and behave in different environments. These traits help explain personal differences in how we approach challenges, relationships, and stressors. In high-pressure fields like…
  continue reading
 
In the demanding field of veterinary medicine, establishing clear boundaries and learning to say no are essential skills for fostering resilience and maintaining mental health. Many veterinary professionals struggle with the pressure to take on extra responsibilities, leading to feelings of overwhelm and a sense of losing control. Recognizing the i…
  continue reading
 
In a high-demand, high-stress field like veterinary medicine, managing ADHD can pose unique challenges. From struggling with focus, time management, and organization to dealing with emotional dysregulation, ADHD can impact both personal and professional lives. ADHD, often associated with children, frequently goes undiagnosed in adults, even in high…
  continue reading
 
In this special 50th bonus episode, we’re offering you a moment to pause, breathe, and reset with a brief 5-minute meditation. Designed for busy veterinary professionals, this short meditation can be used anytime during your workday to help you ground yourself, release tension, and refocus. Whether you're in your car, breakroom, or office, take thi…
  continue reading
 
Recent veterinary research reveals that as many as 50% of veterinary team members may be experiencing burnout. Tackling burnout in the veterinary profession requires a deeper understanding of its complexities. In this episode, we explore innovative ways to measure and address burnout, drawing on recent research and insights from Dr. Andria Jones, a…
  continue reading
 
Addressing mental health challenges within the veterinary profession requires a proactive approach, especially when it comes to sensitive topics like suicide. In this episode, we explore crucial resources designed to support veterinary team members and enhance their wellbeing during the most difficult times. We’ll dive into the AVMA’s After a Suici…
  continue reading
 
Psychological health and safety is a buzz phrase that is picking up traction when it comes to taking steps to create healthier, safer, and more supportive work environments. In this episode, we delve into the Veterinary Visionaries™ initiative, a groundbreaking collaboration launched in 2022 by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), which…
  continue reading
 
Mistakes are an inevitable part of veterinary practice, and if you’ve been in the field for any length of time, chances are you’ve made one. In this episode, we delve into the various types of mistakes that can occur, from minor errors like miscalculating a drug dose to more serious ones that may have significant consequences. Drawing from personal…
  continue reading
 
Do you sometimes think that if only you were in a different location, or even a different country, there’d be more opportunities for you in your vet career? What if I told you that your location might not be the barrier you think it is? Many vets feel trapped by their geographical location, believing it limits their career opportunities. You might …
  continue reading
 
You’re a vet considering alternative options for your veterinary career. You’re finding yourself exhausted at the end of each day of work, with barely enough energy to cook dinner, let alone the energy for hobbies and those closest to you. You’re stressed, you’re lacking confidence in your decisions, and your mental health is suffering as a result.…
  continue reading
 
Do you ever feel like your veterinary career is driving you, instead of you driving it? That sense of being adrift, reacting to whatever the day throws at you, rather than steering your own course? You’re performing as good a job as best as you can, managing high caseloads, demanding clients, and long hours, but the end result is burn-out. If you’r…
  continue reading
 
Have you ever experienced feeling that you have somehow fooled everyone else around you into thinking you are smarter or more capable than you really are? Research demonstrates that just over two-thirds of veterinarians experience imposter syndrome, which is more common among female veterinarians and those in practice for less than 5 years. Imposte…
  continue reading
 
Do you often find yourself overworking and struggling to say 'no' in your veterinary career? You're not alone. Many vets face this challenge, but what's really behind our drive to constantly push beyond our limits? Pain: You're clocking in extra hours, taking on more than you can handle, and yet, you're left wondering why it's so hard to establish …
  continue reading
 
The ways in which veterinary teams communicate can have a tremendous impact on their wellbeing. Research demonstrates that team members that work within an environment with effective communication have lower burnout scores and higher levels of job satisfaction compared to those who work in an environment with ineffective communication. Likewise, ca…
  continue reading
 
#. Episode Title With Episode Number at the Start CAPTURE ATTENTION It’s a new year, and like many people, you’ve probably set a list of resolutions aimed at improving your life and career. But what if I told you that these resolutions alone won't bring the change you're seeking in your veterinary career? - In this episode you’ll learn: The common …
  continue reading
 
Work-life balance is the ever-talked-about-but-seemingly-elusive concept that we all appear to be striving for but without knowing how to actually get it. It is cited as one of the top stressors impacting veterinarians and, for many veterinary team members, is one of the top reasons for feeling dissatisfied with work. In this episode, we debunk mis…
  continue reading
 
In today’s episode, you’re going to find out how. Is having work-life balance achievable? Is it realistic as a veterinary professional? What does work-life balance even mean to me? These are likely questions you have had, running through your head. Today, you’re going to hear an episode of my old podcast, Escape the Nine to Five, where I talked abo…
  continue reading
 
The holidays are here and while this time of year is exciting and energizing for many people, it can be exhausting and illness-provoking for others. According to the American Psychological Association, more than one-third of people surveyed during the holidays report an increase in their stress level due to time constraints, financial concerns, com…
  continue reading
 
Have you ever wondered why some vets seem to go on to have exciting and diverse careers, and yet you’ve yet to discover one for yourself? It’s almost like they’ve got a secret ingredient, and they’re not sharing it with you. And this secret ingredient could give you the upper hand in your vet career, and create opportunities you NEVER knew existed.…
  continue reading
 
Stress, an inherent part of the veterinary profession, and one of the leading concerns among surveyed veterinary teams, can manifest both as eustress, beneficial for personal growth, and distress, leading to chronic exhaustion and overwhelming emotions. Research shows that veterinary professionals who have healthy strategies for coping with stress,…
  continue reading
 
Toxic behaviors have deep-seated impacts on our wellbeing in veterinary medicine. Systematic changes, clear expectations, workload balancing, and candid communication are crucial to crafting a productive and safer work environment. In this bonus episode, I am interviewed by Dr. Stacey Cordivano, equine practitioner and host of The Whole Veterinaria…
  continue reading
 
You’re a vet. And you’re considering making a changes in your career, but finances are holding you back. You would far rather be doing another role that is meaningful to you and doesn’t drain you of energy, but the truth is, your vet job is paying you comfortably. Maybe not as much as you think you deserve, but you can survive on it. And you might …
  continue reading
 
You're a veterinarian and you're stuck. You're in a job you're not entirely enjoying and you're coming home from work drained of energy. You went into this profession because of an interest in science, a love of animals and nature, but if there's any passion in this current job, it's whining. Being a vet is supposed to be a dream job, so why are yo…
  continue reading
 
You’re a clinical vet. They said it would be a “dream job”. Any yet: The work is unrewarding. Your clients are demanding. And you’re reaching the end of your days drained of energy. You NEED to take action in your career, but you’re not even sure where to start. You think about changing jobs after YET another exhausting day of work, might look up j…
  continue reading
 
In the last episode of Next Step Vet, we spoke to Julie Cappel about how to improve your confidence at work. This week, as promised, we're dropping in an episode of Julie's Veterinary Life Coach Podcast, into our feed. As you continue to design a career that works for you. I want you to receive different perspectives from just my own. - As vets, mo…
  continue reading
 
Loading …

Quick Reference Guide

Copyright 2025 | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | | Copyright
Listen to this show while you explore
Play