You Talk Too Much: What Really Happens When Vet Techs Speak Up

A technician catches a medication error and speaks up, only to be told later, “You talk too much.” In this powerful episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, confront one of the most damaging cultural issues in veterinary medicine: punishing staff for doing the right thing. The conversation goes beyond this single story to tackle the widespread discomfort around giving and receiving feedback in veterinary clinics. What happens when your workplace isn't psychologically safe? How do we unintentionally silence the very voices that protect patients and improve care? Ward and Mossor dive into what it means to foster a culture of safety, where feedback is seen as a strength, not a threat. They offer practical communication tips, discuss system-based error prevention strategies, and challenge clinic leaders to create environments where speaking up is not only allowed but also expected. This isn’t just about error prevention; it’s about protecting your team, your patients, and your practice culture from avoidable harm. If you're a veterinary professional who's ever felt dismissed, discouraged, or afraid to speak up, this episode is your validation and your call to action.