Ep 19: Surviving ER Isn’t the Goal: Creating Safer Veterinary teams

This conversation with Geoffrey explores his journey into veterinary medicine, the importance of credentials, his transition into emergency medicine, and what inspired him to enter the field. Geoffrey shares why he chose to speak openly online about mental health, including the personal realization and courage it took to tell his story.Together, Geoffrey and Suzanne discuss recognizing mental health struggles, taking personal responsibility, and using a multimodal approach to support wellbeing. The episode also examines leadership responsibility in creating psychologically safe workplaces, building a positive team culture, avoiding judgment, embracing vulnerability, and supporting growth even when it is uncomfortable.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Geoffrey05:55 Reason for Sharing Online15:23 Recognizing Mental Health Struggles22:12 Multimodal Approach to Mental Health29:07 Embracing Discomfort and Growth35:43 Cultivating a Positive Work Environment41:19 Effective Communication and Collaboration49:20 Overcoming Fear and Sharing Vulnerability58:48 Books and Resources for Personal GrowthConnect with GeoffreyInstagram, TikTok: @aint.doin.rightYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aint.doin.right82Join the Leading Veterinary Teams Community:https://leading-veterinary-teams-community.mn.co/plans/1907700Have a topic you would love Suzanne to discuss or want to be a guest? Submit here:www.lvt.vet/podcast-questionsSome of Geoffrey’s Favorite BooksAtomic Habits by James ClearDare to Lead by Brené BrownExtreme Ownership by Jocko WillinkEverything is F*cked by Mark MansonThe Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck by Mark MansonIf you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, mental health challenges, or substance use, support is available:Immediate Support988 Suicide and Crisis LifelineCall or text 988Chat via 988lifeline.orgCrisis Text LineText HOME to 741741Substance Use SupportSAMHSA’s National Helpline1-800-662-HELP (4357)findtreatment.govVeterinary Specific SupportNot One More Vet (NOMV)notonemorevet.comNot One More Vet Support Staff (NOMV Support Staff)nomvsupportstaff.comNational Organization of Veterinary Nurses and Technicians (NOVN)novnt.orgLGBTQ+ SupportThe Trevor ProjectCall 1-866-488-7386Text START to 678678Deaf or Hard of Hearing SupportDial 711 then call 988Videophone access is also available through 988Subscribe to Leading Veterinary Teams On Air for conversations that challenge traditional leadership in veterinary medicine.If this episode resonates, share it with a colleague, subscribe, and leave a review to help more veterinary leaders find the show.