From Veterinary Burnout to Bucket-List Healing with Tiana Crane

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Tiana Crane, registered veterinary technician, wildlife enthusiast, and founder of Wayward Wings Travel. Together, they explore how burnout in veterinary medicine led Tiana to create a unique travel business focused on helping fellow vet professionals unwind, reconnect, and heal in the wildest corners of the world.Tiana opens up about her 20+ years in the veterinary field, the emotional exhaustion she witnessed (and lived through), and how a layoff turned into a calling. From whale watching in the Arctic to chasing the Northern Lights, her trips are more than getaways—they’re a form of self-care and professional preservation.They also dive into her advocacy work with the Colorado Association of Certified Veterinary Technicians, the rise of mid-level veterinary practitioners, and how she’s shaping future leaders through advisory roles in vet tech programs.Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:Veterinary Burnout Is Real—and Overlooked:Tiana shares the emotional cost of vet work and how common it is for professionals to feel guilty about taking time off.Travel as Therapy:With a deep love for nature and adventure, Tiana explains how wildlife travel helps caregivers truly unplug and return recharged.Wildlife Wonders:Hear about her favorite Arctic sightings—like orcas, humpbacks, reindeer, and the elusive Northern Lights—and why Antarctica is next on her list.The Reality of Pet Travel:Tiana offers expert tips on traveling with pets, understanding health requirements, and navigating airline rules—without the stress.Advocacy & Education:From helping pass laws to mentoring students, Tiana is shaping the future of veterinary medicine beyond the clinic floor.Key Takeaways: ✅ Veterinary professionals deserve real time off—and nature can help heal ✅ Burnout prevention requires cultural and systemic change ✅ Wildlife travel offers awe, perspective, and restoration ✅ There’s a growing movement to elevate vet techs and their career paths ✅ Supporting those who care for animals starts with caring for them, tooListen Now:If you’ve ever felt stuck, stressed, or stretched thin in animal care—or just need an excuse to finally chase the Northern Lights—this episode is your sign. Tiana Crane brings wisdom, wanderlust, and heart to a conversation that’s as empowering as it is adventurous.Spotify | Apple PodcastsConnect with Tiana Crane: 🌐 Website: waywardwingstravel.com 📧 Email: [email protected] 💼 LinkedIn: Tiana CraneKnow someone in veterinary medicine who needs a break? Share this episode and remind them: it’s okay to get away—and come back better.