Breaking the Perfectionism Trap That's Holding Women Vets Back: Leadership, Confidence & Career Growth with Dr. Cheryl York (Ep 29)

What if the biggest thing holding you back isn’t your skill, but your mindset?Veterinary leadership, perfectionism in veterinary medicine, and career sustainability are at the heart of this episode with Dr. Cheryl York.Dr. York shares her journey from self-doubt and fear of public speaking to becoming a confident leader and advocate in organized veterinary medicine. Together, we explore how perfectionism, vulnerability, and community shape career growth. This episode dives into leadership development, overcoming fear, and building meaningful connections so veterinarians can thrive—personally and professionally—without sacrificing themselves in the process.In This Episode You Will Learn✅ How perfectionism shows up in veterinary medicine—and how to overcome it✅ Why vulnerability and community are essential for career growth✅ How to step into leadership even when you feel unqualified or afraid✅ Practical ways to build a sustainable, fulfilling veterinary careerReady to evolve your veterinary career?Explore coaching, programs, and resources designed to support alignment, leadership, and long-term sustainability in veterinary medicine at www.evolvedvets.comTimestamps00:00 Perfectionism and the hidden impact on veterinarians01:45 Cheryl’s journey into veterinary medicine and career path04:46 Overcoming fear of public speaking through challenging yourself to do the uncomfortable thing06:40 Failing forward: persistence and earning a board position09:00 The power of networking and community in vet med13:34 Finding purpose and avoiding isolation in a demanding career15:07 Perfectionism, fear of failure, and “life paralysis”19:22 Advice for women in veterinary medicine navigating self-doubt21:30 The importance of community and shared experiences25:45 Life outside veterinary medicine: hobbies, balance, and self-careKey Takeaways🔹 Perfectionism is often rooted in fear and shame—and can limit growth if left unchecked🔹 Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about stepping up despite fear and discomfort🔹 Community and connection are critical to surviving and thriving in veterinary medicine🔹 Self-compassion and vulnerability are essential for long-term career sustainabilityIf you enjoyed this episode, check out Dr. Bethany Weinheimer’s episode on perfectionism in veterinary medicine, overcoming self-doubt, and building a more sustainable veterinary career. Check it out here 👉 https://youtu.be/-eyYOjtVWmwAbout Dr. Cheryl YorkVeterinarian & Medical DirectorDr. Cheryl York received her Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University in 2009, then went on to graduate from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. She practiced in San Diego, California for several years prior to her move back to Texas in 2017 to be closer to family. She has been with the Bluebonnet family ever since, having practiced at all 3 locations! The Circle C location is her long term work home, where she is currently serving as their medical director.https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-york-a6308bb0Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cyork32/?hl=enEmail: [email protected] Mentioned📸 Instagram: @EvolvedVets📺 YouTube: Evolved Vets🎵 TikTok: @evolvedvets🌐 Website & Membership: www.evolvedvets.com📸 Instagram: @drbeththevet💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bethany-weinheimer-a9047558🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drbeththevetveterinary medicine, vet leadership, TVMA, veterinary networking, professional networking, career change, veterinary advocacy, leadership skills, veterinary community, Dr Cheryl York, perfectionism, mental health, burnout