Unfiltered Vet Discussions

This week the group is a little more unfiltered than usual - Phil, Kelly, Peter, David, and Beth talk about the joy they find in Dungeon Crawler Carl, as well as the lessons learned from the series.

Join Peter, Kelly, Beth, and Jenni today as they discuss change management in both practice and in personal life - the pitfalls of practice management software, dealing with the hurt and discomfort of changing ways, and how to handle the feelings that they cause.

Join Peter, Kelly, and Beth as they discuss the topic: You cannot manage time, you cannot buy time, but you can manage yourself.

Join Kelly, Peter, and David as they discuss one of the most important four-letter words - Time. How to take your time, how to use your time, and how to not let it slip through your fingers.

Join our discussion panel of Kelly, Jenni, Beth, and David as we have a fun talk about Jenni's recent road trip from Virginia to New Hampshire, including a visit to Beth's vet practice in Pennsylvania.

Join Kelly, David, and Peter as they discuss the difference between building sandcastles - building something new that wasn't there, as a means for connection - and just throwing sand at each other.

Join Kelly, David, Beth, and Jenni today, as we have a lot of fun and talk about how we find our people by being ourselves.

In today's episode we have a discussion with David, Beth, Jenni, and Kelly about finding the common ground that unites your practice into a crew, and how to build one that works.

Today, we join Kelly, Beth, and Jenni in a conversation about crazy work stories; we share our stories about the veterinary field, and also talk about how we keep sane with the crazy things that happen to us at work.

As part of a series of discussions, David McCormick talks about practice ownership, buying your practice, and navigating the pitfalls of ownership.

In this video originally captured from a livestream seminar, David McCormick discusses practice ownership, how to manage and build your practice value, and how to plan for the future of your veterinary practice.

In this long-form conversation with Dr. Ken Gorczyca, we discuss his practice A Beloved Farewell, pet end-of-life care, the healing power of art, and the connections between animals, grief, care-giving, community, and healing.

In this episode we take a look at the current state of the industry, including client perceptions, the use of tech and education to communicate effectively, marketing strategies to carry you through a downturn, and strategies to grow revenue.

This episode takes a look at different usages and capabilities of A.I. In a world with so many choices of different A.I. agents to use, how do you evaluate which one is the best for your practice?

This April Fool’s episode takes a real-time look at the veterinary industry after Q1 2026. The group discusses steady but plateauing financial performance, growing capacity limits due to doctor shortages, and the ongoing challenge of workforce distribution—especially in rural and mixed animal practices. While demand for care remains strong, practices are feeling the strain of staffing gaps, rising costs, and operational inefficiencies. Overall, the tone is cautiously optimistic, with a focus on adapting, improving efficiency, and planning ahead.

A real conversation about suicide, awareness, and why asking the hard questions can save lives.If you or someone you know needs support, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline).Listen/watch: unfilteredvetdiscussions.com

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the team explores the idea that everything in life and business is hard—you just have to choose your hard. From leadership and communication to personal growth, they highlight why the most challenging skills often matter most, while also taking a moment to honor Phil and his mother.

In ASSUME, the Unfiltered Vet Discussions panel talks about how assumptions shape communication, teamwork, and client interactions in veterinary medicine. Using funny stories and real examples, they unpack how easy it is to misread people, situations, and intentions—and why clearer communication, vulnerability, and asking questions matter more than jumping to conclusions.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, Kelly and Phil talk about what it means to navigate heavy seasons in life. From personal challenges and loss to the everyday weight many people carry, they discuss the importance of self-compassion, asking for help, and focusing on what truly matters. The conversation is a reminder that difficult moments are part of the human experience—and giving yourself grace during those times is essential.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel discusses why “less is not more” when it comes to consolidation in the veterinary industry. They explore the potential impact of major distributor mergers, including how fewer options for supplies and services could affect pricing, inventory management, and independent veterinary practices. The conversation also highlights concerns around data ownership, private equity influence, and the importance of veterinarians staying informed so they can make smarter business decisions and protect the future of independent practices.

In this episode, Kelly, Beth, and Peter dig into what “client experience” really means in veterinary medicine—and why it’s become a major differentiator as pet owners pay closer attention to value, communication, and trust. They frame vet med as a service industry delivering healthcare (not the other way around), emphasizing that clients are part of the team and that leadership sets the tone for consistency. The conversation covers where practices commonly miss the mark (communication, pricing/value explanation, feeling unheard), how to improve through training, auditing, and clear expectations, and why the experience starts before someone walks in the door—your digital presence is now the “front desk.”

In this kickoff episode of the Boss Bitch mini-series under Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the conversation centers on what it really means for women to take the first step—especially in male-dominated industries. The panel shares candid stories about being underestimated, dismissed, or softened into first-name familiarity when male counterparts are afforded titles and authority. Through personal experiences in business ownership, leadership, and public visibility, they unpack how fear of failure, imposter syndrome, and the pressure to be “perfect” can hold women back.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the hosts reflect on a simple but powerful truth: what you do matters, even when you can’t see the impact right away. Through personal stories, leadership experiences, and moments from everyday life, they explore the ripple effect of kindness, presence, and intentional connection. The conversation touches on imposter syndrome, burnout, and feeling invisible during hard days—especially in veterinary medicine and leadership roles—while offering practical ways to reframe perspective, recognize small wins, and help others feel seen. At its core, this episode is a reminder that every role, every interaction, and every effort carries meaning—and that reminding others they matter often starts with believing it yourself.

Nearly six years after COVID first disrupted the world, its effects are still shaping veterinary medicine in lasting ways. In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel explores “long COVID” in the profession—how rapid demand shifts, workforce shortages, rising costs, burnout, and productivity changes continue to impact practices today.From staffing and retention challenges to mentorship strain on senior doctors, the conversation unpacks why simply hiring more veterinarians isn’t the full solution. The panel discusses efficiency, delegation, workflow redesign, AI scribes, and new practice models as critical tools for moving forward.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel explores how misinterpretation, emotional regulation, and presence can dramatically change outcomes in high-stress situations. Through a powerful real-life case, the conversation highlights how slowing down, questioning assumptions, and leading with empathy can de-escalate fear, support mental health, and create meaningful human connection during some of the hardest moments in veterinary medicine. The episode serves as a reminder that compassion, curiosity, and self-awareness aren’t “soft skills” — they’re essential tools for sustainable practice, leadership, and wellbeing.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel dives into the very real impact of “little” behaviors—microaggressions, gossip, and passive-aggressive comments—on veterinary teams and clinic culture. They walk through a real-world situation where venting about coworkers spiraled into a bad mood and a toxic atmosphere, and unpack why so many people are unaware that they’re “being a dick” in the first place. The conversation explores how negativity becomes a default connection style, from childhood dynamics to media messaging, and why high-functioning practices often fixate on “ant hills” once the big fires are out. The panel shares practical tools like gratitude journaling, shout-outs, and “three good things” exercises to retrain our brains toward positivity, strengthen psychological safety, and build healthier ways to connect. They wrap with a simple challenge for everyone in vet med: practice awareness, choose kindness, and remember—it’s never too late to stop being a dick.

In “Managing Business Expenses,” the Unfiltered Vet Discussions panel digs into what it really takes to run a veterinary hospital like a business, not a hobby. David breaks down why cost of goods sold and inventory management are still the “number one financial disease,” while Peter challenges owners to stop running blind and start measuring key metrics like the 20/20/20 rule (staff, doctors, COGS). Jenny and Beth share real–world stories, from “inventory maracas” bottle–shaking to mixed–animal inventory chaos, and explain why profit isn’t a dirty word—it’s what allows teams to be paid fairly and patients to receive better care. Together, they walk through practical first steps: tracking COGS over time, bringing in a veterinary CPA, trusting and empowering practice managers, sharing financial context with the team, and resisting the urge to cut marketing even in a veterinary “recession.”

Beth and David close out the year with a practical, numbers-forward conversation on what veterinary practices should review at year-end and carry into 2026. They break down a simple “effective doctor compensation” check (W-2 vs. production) to validate pay math, spot inequities, and reduce associate turnover risk. They also highlight how routine, short 1:1 check-ins can uncover issues early and strengthen culture—especially when production starts trending down for reasons no one sees on the surface.Next, David introduces a Practice Price Index (PPI): a quick spreadsheet method using ~50 internal supply items to quantify cost creep and guide fee updates over time (without putting the burden solely on the owner). They wrap with a challenge for 2026: use your practice management software for inventory—even if you start small with flea/tick/heartworm—plus a reminder that vendor and lab agreements are negotiable. Overall, the episode is a clear roadmap for protecting margins, supporting teams, and building a more stable practice year-over-year.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel digs into what it really means to “not pour from an empty cup,” especially during high-stress seasons like the holidays. They unpack how extra clinic demands, family expectations, financial pressure, and comparison on social media quietly drain energy—and why many people don’t realize how empty their cup is until they hit a wall.The conversation explores practical, real-life ways veterinary professionals refill their cups: from Legos, video games, disc golf, yard work, and “stabbing art” (needle felting) to baking, painting nights, and fully immersive hobbies that demand your complete focus. They connect it back to HALT (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) as a simple self-check, and challenge listeners to look honestly at how much time they spend doomscrolling versus doing things that actually restore them.The panel also talks about “knowing yourself” well enough to choose what truly recharges you—whether that’s solitude and quiet or social, active, creative time—and how scheduling small, regular moments of self-care prevents your cup from ever getting completely empty. They close by reminding listeners that prioritizing joy, boundaries, and gratitude isn’t selfish; it’s what allows you to keep showing up for your patients, your team, and the people you love.

This heartfelt episode explores what gratitude looks like in veterinary medicine — from appreciating clients and teammates to honoring the passion that keeps the profession moving forward. The panel reflects on how the field has evolved, highlighting the growing focus on mental health, community support, and shared learning. They discuss the impact of mentorship, the importance of not feeling alone in practice, and how simple acts of appreciation — whether holiday treats, kind words, or supportive conversations — can reignite purpose. The team closes with an invitation for listeners to pause, acknowledge three things they’re grateful for today, and share them with someone else.

This episode dives into addiction—whether it’s alcohol, substances, work, or emotional avoidance. The panel shares real stories of trauma, shame, and recovery, especially within veterinary medicine. They emphasize that hard conversations matter and that support can be offered without judgment. Key resources to help professionals in the veterinary field include:Veterinary Hope Foundation (https://veterinaryhope.org) Inspire by FVMA (https://fvma.org/inspire/) Not One More Vet (https://nomv.org)VIN Foundation (https://vinfoundation.org/resources/)

Opportunity During a Slow Time,” Kelly, Beth, Jenni, and David unpack why many clinics see a late-year slowdown and how to use it to your advantage. They compare market chatter across the U.S., then share tactics that keep schedules healthy: forecasting seasonal patterns, opening limited, referral-based new-client windows, running lookalike ads, and offering gift certificates to pull demand into Q1. David underscores profitability and an emergency fund so clinics can weather dips. The team urges using downtime to improve onboarding, team utilization, and workflow. They highlight community-driven visibility—chambers, service clubs, rescue partnerships, free vaccine clinics, and even CPR/AED trainings or senior-community nail-trim days—to build trust and future business. Listeners are invited to share topics and connect at VMX.

In “The Next Most Important Thing,” Kelly, Beth, and Peter dig into real-world prioritization for veterinarians and small business owners. Beth shares her father’s mantra—“do the next most important thing”—and how it guided her through start-up overwhelm. The trio connects this to triage thinking, resisting “shiny object” distractions, and the “Eat That Frog” idea of tackling the hard task first. They discuss proactive planning for seasonal slowdowns, delegating effectively (the #1 small-business success skill), and separating roles: working on the business vs. in the business (W.O.N.J.I.). Beth and Kelly unpack time blocking, weekly Top-3 alignment with managers, and measuring where leadership vs. clinical time delivers the most return. Practical takeaways: rank tasks by impact, delegate outcomes (not just chores), and commit to one role at a time.

The hosts unpack the line between appreciation and entitlement in vet med, using real stories from Vet Tech Appreciation Week. They discuss why year-round recognition, livable wages, and clear communication about benefits/finances matter more than one-off gifts. The team shares practical tactics—breakdown sheets of total comp, simple cost pie charts, and transparent goals—to build trust and reduce “this is all we get?” moments. They also emphasize modeling gratitude, supporting staff during emergencies without hesitation, and inviting direct dialogue over break-room complaints. The result: a culture where appreciation lands, entitlement fades, and teams feel valued.

From runaway dachshunds to heart-dogs and chaos crews, the team swaps real-life tales that range from hilarious to heartbreaking. Jenni shares sprinting through the woods after a mischievous mini dachshund (and her rescue backstory). Kelly opens up about navigating allergies, behavior, and healing with her doodle, Noah. You’ll also hear about a Yorkie PDA surgery who chose “dad,” Harley the fence-climbing clinic legend, a blind-but-bold Dalmatian named Fiona, and a senior lab (“Honey Bunny Boo Boo Bear”) who taught everyone about love and letting go. It’s messy, honest, and very dog.

As the year winds down, the team reflects on what it really means to take care of yourself, personally and professionally. From scheduling time off and setting healthy boundaries to finding small daily resets, they explore how prioritizing your well-being benefits not only you but also your team and those who rely on you. This conversation reminds listeners that self-care isn’t selfish, it’s leadership.

This episode dives into “recruiting war room” stories that highlight some of the most surprising—and sometimes shocking—interview moments. From alarm clocks going off mid-interview to gold suits, pizza deliveries, and even presumptive “first-day” staff meetings, these tales reveal how professionalism and preparation can make or break opportunities. The conversation also explores client-side missteps, like dark clinics, missed interviews, and questionable lodging arrangements. The big takeaway: etiquette, honesty, and cultural fit are essential for success in the hiring process.

Kelly, Peter, and Beth unpack how “success” in a veterinary practice can look very different depending on whether you’re going by feelings or facts. They dig into staffing perceptions (feeling understaffed on an overstaffed day), why data should be a roadmap—not a hammer—and how open-book metrics (payroll, COGS, doctor/staff salary) build ownership thinking. The team connects steady marketing to a healthy “heartbeat,” warns against turning it off when things look good, and stresses aligning online promises with in-clinic experiences. They also touch psychological safety (job-security fears), using slow days for training/ops, and a simple daily “green/yellow/red” pulse check to balance team well-being with KPIs. Bottom line: measure what matters, manage the narrative, and keep momentum consistent.

The panel unpacks a real-world ER case that blew up online: a client found goofy selfies on her phone after a euthanasia and assumed staff were mocking her grief. Using Phil’s “MRI—Most Reasonable Intent” lens, they explore how small judgment errors can look catastrophic in the wrong context, why social media pile-ons escalate harm, and how to respond with compassion without assuming total blame. They share practical approaches—owning your part, direct heartfelt apologies, pausing the firestorm, leaning on core values and protocols, avoiding undertrained “warm body” assignments, and, when needed, bringing in PR help. At the core: people want to feel heard and to know they matter. Clear, honest communication defuses most situations; for the rest, empathy and measured accountability guide the way.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel dives into the theme of adapting to change. They share personal stories of helping kids move to college and start high school, reflecting on the role of self-awareness in navigating transitions. The conversation extends into the veterinary world, asking how many clinics truly approach onboarding with self-awareness in mind. From guiding new employees to mentoring recent graduates, the panel highlights where practices succeed—and where they fall short—when it comes to change, growth, and support.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, Beth Mehaffey of Pennridge Animal Hospital shares how her team created a grief support program for clients facing pet loss. With decades of combined experience in veterinary care, they discuss the profound emotional impact of losing a pet, often felt more deeply than losing a family member. The program aims to provide continuous support for both clients and veterinary staff, addressing the daily reality of grief in practice. From working with geriatric patients to guiding families through their most difficult moments, the conversation highlights the importance of recognizing the unique human–animal bond and integrating emotional care into veterinary services.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel explores the changing culture of reading across generations. From the average American spending only 19 minutes a day with books to the rise of audiobooks and digital reading, the conversation highlights both personal habits and broader societal shifts. The panel shares their own reading journeys, from juggling multiple books at once to losing time for reading during busy family years. They discuss the impact of technology on attention, the “leaders are readers” philosophy, and the importance of fostering early reading with children. The episode also spotlights veterinary-focused book clubs and professional reading recommendations, encouraging listeners to rediscover the value of books in personal and professional growth.

In this episode, Peter and the panel break down takeaways from the 2025 ABMA convention, where fresh energy from young professionals met 57 hours of sessions focused on veterinary business strategy. Together, they explore how economic unpredictability is impacting client spending and forcing practices to evolve beyond one-size-fits-all care. The panel discusses the need for revitalized marketing approaches, the rise of urgent care models, and the importance of using demographic insights to tailor service offerings. They also call out critical operational gaps—like the 50% of receptionists who don’t ask for appointments—and share how daily cash-based staff incentives and stronger digital systems can improve client conversion and education. From pre-visit emails to improved websites for better recruiting, the episode emphasizes one central theme: adapting with strategy is key to staying competitive in today’s veterinary landscape.

In this episode, Peter welcomes back Marnette Falley, former editor of Veterinary Economics, who returns to the veterinary space after a six-year sabbatical. Marnette shares insights from her work as a leadership coach and facilitator, emphasizing the power of inquiry over advice, and the difference between coaching and mentoring. She discusses her shift in leadership philosophy, the importance of play in professional environments, and how creativity and co-creation foster deeper engagement. Through coaching, she encourages a move away from directive management styles toward more collaborative, empowering approaches. Her journey highlights how meaningful change often comes from fresh perspective—even if the core challenges remain familiar.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, titled "How Do I Want to Live Today?", hosts Kelly, Jenni, and Peter dive into the idea of discovering and defining one’s personal purpose. Jenni shares her experience from a leadership course that prompted her to reflect deeply on why she continues working in veterinary practice management, ultimately realizing her purpose is to serve and empower others. Peter reflects on how his purpose evolved from professional service to a broader mission of helping others through education and philanthropy. Kelly introduces her personal framework of intentionally choosing how to live each day, based on internal balance and mindful choices. Together, they emphasize the importance—and challenge—of carving out time for self-reflection in a profession that often prioritizes external demands.

In this episode, Peter is joined by Dr. Andrew Findlaytor to explore the changing landscape of relief veterinary medicine. From his first hands-on experience in a bulldog C-section to co-founding the Roux platform, Dr. Findlaytor shares how flexibility, specialization, and tech are shaping the future of vet careers. They discuss the post-pandemic boom in relief work, the rise of credentialed techs, and how AI and consulting roles are opening new doors across the industry.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, Kelly, Peter, and Phil tackle the complex topic of change in veterinary medicine—from crisis-driven pivots to proactive innovation. They explore why the vet industry resists change, the psychological and neurological barriers involved, and what it takes to build teams that embrace transformation. From curbside care to AI and neurodiversity, the hosts highlight real-world shifts and strategies for creating resilient, forward-thinking veterinary teams. Whether you're navigating leadership, burnout, or your next big decision, this episode offers a grounded and thought-provoking guide for growth.

In this episode, Peter is joined by Dr. Sam Bowden, veterinarian and founder of Accelerate Practice Academy. Together, they explore how Dr. Bowden transformed struggling practices into thriving, high-profit businesses. With no formal business training out of veterinary school, Dr. Bowden shares how mentorship, mindset, and strategic planning helped him overcome financial setbacks and build lasting success. From Australian work-life balance to five core profit levers, this conversation offers practical, global insights for practice owners ready to lead smarter, not harder.

In this episode of Unfiltered Vet Discussions, the panel dives into recent travels and dream destinations, reflecting on bucket list experiences and the importance of making memories through exploration. From castles in Scotland to concerts in Manchester and even reflections on Antarctica, the discussion highlights how travel shapes perspective and rejuvenates the veterinary spirit. The conversation also explores the value of creating a bucket list, encouraging young veterinarians to pursue ownership, and building legacy hospitals. It’s a motivating reminder to embrace adventure—personally and professionally.

In this episode, the panel examines how acknowledging both personal and professional milestones can enhance veterinary team culture. From career growth stories to everyday achievements, such as work anniversaries, they highlight how consistent appreciation fuels morale and retention. The discussion also dives into how leadership plays a vital role in supporting team well-being through intentional, meaningful gestures, proving that small wins can lead to a big impact.