Drat & Drake: Patti Eddington - Don't Look in the Freezer

Today we interview author and former journalist Patti Eddington, about her book "Don’t Look in the Freezer: The Very Strange Life of a Veterinarian’s Wife" (released in April 2026) and how it grew from early blog-era writing and workshops into a more honest memoir-like collection of stories. We discuss the realities of being constantly on call while building a practice, raising their daughter Molly around the clinic, a painful turning point during Patty’s foot surgery, and how respect, communication, and feeling “seen” sustain relationships in veterinary life. Patti reflects on changes in hiring and expectations across generations of veterinarians, and shares her current work with book events and free “Write Your Story” workshops, plus upcoming signings across Michigan, including Mackinac Island.00:00 Meet Patty Eddington01:15 Why This Book Hits03:15 Origin Story of Freezer07:09 Memoir Truth and Voice09:08 When Emergencies Flip10:00 Vets Are People Too11:28 Marriage on Call14:50 Clinic Kids and Critters16:13 Foot Surgery Breaking Point23:21 Money Struggles and Making It24:17 No Choice But Success25:36 When It Finally Felt Secure27:14 Frugal Years And Gratitude28:03 Waiting To Have Molly29:35 Raising Molly Their Way35:57 Grandparenting And James38:59 Generations Of Veterinarians45:11 Whats Next For The Family48:09 Workshops Book Tours Farewell