Leading Out Loud

In this episode of Leading Out Loud, HR executive Artie Odoms helps unpack one of the most misunderstood dynamics in leadership: how to navigate tension, communication, and people decisions without losing trust—or yourself—in the process.This powerful conversation digs into what leadership actually requires today. From demystifying HR to tackling real-world challenges like employee engagement, turnover, and tough conversations, this episode is a masterclass in balancing results with humanity.Great leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking better questions, communicating with clarity, and creating an environment where people feel heard, respected, and invested. You’ll hear practical insights on:Why transparency builds trust faster than perks ever willHow to balance business outcomes with genuine care for your teamThe hidden cost of avoiding difficult conversations (and how to handle them well)Why “one-size-fits-all” leadership doesn’t work—and what to do insteadHow data, feedback, and honest dialogue can transform team performanceArtie also shares hard-earned wisdom from years in HR leadership, including the truth about engagement surveys, exit interviews, and the real drivers behind employee retention.This episode is a reminder that leadership is not about control—it’s about connection. When you invest in your people, communicate with intention, and lead with both data and compassion, you don’t just manage teams… you build cultures that perform.Whether you’re a new leader or a seasoned executive, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership—and give you practical tools to lead more effectively starting today. Keywords: leadership communication, employee engagement, HR strategy, team performance, organizational culture Key Topics:Balancing People & PerformanceCommunication & Trust in LeadershipModern HR as a Strategic Partner Guest Information: Artie OdomsLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arthuro/ Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true #leadership#management#healthcare#mentorship#podcast#leadingoutloud

Ever wondered why great employees turn into frustrated leaders—or how toxic workplaces quietly take shape on both sides of the equation?In this candid and thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Dr. Crystal Ishihara—business psychologist, author of Shitty Bosses and Asshole Employees, and (full transparency) my own dissertation chair—to unpack the real dynamics behind workplace dysfunction.We go beyond the usual “bad boss” narrative and dive into the uncomfortable truth: culture isn’t created by leaders alone. From micromanagement and lack of transparency to burnout, quiet quitting, and accountability, this conversation explores how both leaders and employees contribute to the environments they work in—and how to fix it.You’ll hear powerful insights on:Why promoting great employees without training sets everyone up to failThe small leadership habits that build (or destroy) trustHow transparency can transform even the toughest workplace dynamicsAnd the mindset shift every leader needs to truly support their teamIf you’ve ever had a boss that made you question everything—or caught yourself not showing up as your best at work—this episode will challenge you, validate you, and give you a better way forward.Because leadership isn’t just about performance… it’s about people. Guest Information: Crystal Ishihara, Ph.D.Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cishihara/Book Link - https://a.co/d/0b7HV8wp Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true

What if the hardest part of being a new veterinarian isn’t the medicine?In this episode of Leading Out Loud, we explore the critical role of psychological safety in helping early career veterinarians transition from school to practice with Dr. Dani Rabwin, the founder of Ready, Vet, Go. While new grads are clinically trained, many struggle with confidence, communication, and the realities of patient care—because, as discussed, “the shock isn’t the medicine… it’s everything around it.”We break down what psychological safety really looks like in a clinic: a space where mistakes can be discussed openly, questions are encouraged, and learning is continuous. Because when people feel safe to speak up, team performance improves—and so does patient care.You’ll also learn how mentorship shapes that environment, with practical insights on:Creating space for honest conversationsModeling vulnerability as a leaderReinforcing confidence through small wins and feedbackAt its core, this episode is a reminder that great mentorship isn’t just about medicine—it’s about people. And when leaders get it right, they don’t just develop better clinicians—they build stronger, more resilient teams.Keywords: mentorship, imposter syndrome, leadership, communication, new graduates, psychological safety, clinic culture Key Topics:Psychological Safety in Veterinary PracticeMentorship & Early Career DevelopmentNavigating Confidence & Imposter Syndrome Guest Information: Dani Rabwin, DVMLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dani-rabwin-dvm-18034b217/Ready, Vet, Go - https://readyvetgo.co Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true#leadership #management #healthcare #mentorship #podcast #leadingoutloud  

In this insightful conversation, Gigi Tsontos, CEO of Not One More Vet, shares her journey from social work to veterinary mental health advocacy. The conversation covers the unique vulnerabilities of veterinary professionals, the importance of emotional intelligence, systemic support systems, and practical steps for fostering a culture of well-being in veterinary practices. Why are veterinary professionals so vulnerable to mental health challenges? Let's unpack this. 💔 If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in your veterinary career, you’re not alone. Veterinary medicine attracts compassionate souls who often struggle with emotional intelligence and boundary-setting. Many of us prioritize our patients over our well-being, leading to burnout and stress. The pressure to excel can be immense, with perfectionism leaving little room for mistakes or self-care. If you can relate, tag someone who needs to hear this! Not One More Vet is addressing these issues head-on, offering support and solutions to create healthier work environments. Together, we can foster a culture of understanding and support. Key Topics:Vulnerabilities of veterinary professionals to mental health challengesThe role of emotional intelligence and systemic support in well-beingPractical strategies for leadership to foster mental healthThe importance of psychological safety and peer support in vet teams Guest Information: Gigi Tsontos, LCSW, LSCSW, MPA, PCCLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/gigi-tsontos/NOMV - http://www.nomv.org/ Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true

In this episode of Leading Out Loud, Terri Lambe, Chief Development Officer at Legacy Veterinary Advisors, helps unpack the realities of mergers and acquisitions in veterinary medicine. Terri shares her unique journey into the M&A space and offers an inside look at what practice owners experience when considering a sale—from fear and uncertainty to opportunity and growth.We explore common misconceptions about consolidation, the emotional and operational impact on owners and teams, and what truly matters beyond valuation—like culture, autonomy, and long-term alignment. The conversation also highlights the importance of preparation, transparent leadership, and choosing the right advisor to navigate this complex process.At its core, this episode is a powerful reminder that while M&A is business, it’s also deeply personal—and when done right, it can create meaningful outcomes for owners, teams, and the future of veterinary medicine.Guest Information: Terri Lambe, MBALinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/terri-lambe-mba-6b4830186/Websites: https://legacyvetadvisors.com/https://registration.dvm360.com/fetch-nashville-2026/agenda/speakers/3880931  Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true

In this episode of Leading Out Loud, Terri Lambe, Chief Development Officer at Legacy Veterinary Advisors, helps unpack the realities of mergers and acquisitions in veterinary medicine. Terri shares her unique journey into the M&A space and offers an inside look at what practice owners experience when considering a sale—from fear and uncertainty to opportunity and growth.We explore common misconceptions about consolidation, the emotional and operational impact on owners and teams, and what truly matters beyond valuation—like culture, autonomy, and long-term alignment. The conversation also highlights the importance of preparation, transparent leadership, and choosing the right advisor to navigate this complex process.At its core, this episode is a powerful reminder that while M&A is business, it’s also deeply personal—and when done right, it can create meaningful outcomes for owners, teams, and the future of veterinary medicine.Guest Information: Terri Lambe, MBALinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/terri-lambe-mba-6b4830186/Websites: https://legacyvetadvisors.com/https://registration.dvm360.com/fetch-nashville-2026/agenda/speakers/3880931  Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true

Struggling to get your team on board with change? You’re not alone—and this episode will change how you lead through it.In this conversation with change expert Evie Staples, we unpack a critical truth: change isn’t just operational—it’s deeply human. What feels like a straightforward shift to leadership can feel overwhelming, uncertain, or even unsafe to your team.We explore how great leaders approach change differently—leading with empathy, intentional communication, and a deep awareness of how people actually experience transition. Because when you create the right environment, resistance softens, trust builds, and progress accelerates.We also dig into what many leaders miss: change management isn’t just a “people issue”—it’s a business driver. Get it wrong, and you risk disengagement, attrition, and stalled results. Get it right, and you unlock performance at scale.If you want to lead change without creating friction—and actually bring your team with you—this episode is for you.Guest Information: Evie StaplesLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eviestaples/Empower the Future - empowerthefuture.net To Schedule a Talk, email [email protected]  Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true 

Struggling to get your team on board with change? You’re not alone—and this episode will change how you lead through it.In this conversation with change expert Evie Staples, we unpack a critical truth: change isn’t just operational—it’s deeply human. What feels like a straightforward shift to leadership can feel overwhelming, uncertain, or even unsafe to your team.We explore how great leaders approach change differently—leading with empathy, intentional communication, and a deep awareness of how people actually experience transition. Because when you create the right environment, resistance softens, trust builds, and progress accelerates.We also dig into what many leaders miss: change management isn’t just a “people issue”—it’s a business driver. Get it wrong, and you risk disengagement, attrition, and stalled results. Get it right, and you unlock performance at scale.If you want to lead change without creating friction—and actually bring your team with you—this episode is for you. Key Topics:Change is a Human Experience - Not Just a StrategyLeading Change with Empathy and IntentionThe Hidden Business Impact of Change Management Guest Information: Evie StaplesLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eviestaples/Empower the Future - empowerthefuture.net To Schedule a Talk, email [email protected]  Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true

Perimenopause affects millions of women during some of the most pivotal years of their careers—yet it remains one of the least discussed topics in the workplace. In Episode 6 of Leading Out Loud, workplace well-being expert Renee Machel shares powerful insights on how perimenopause impacts women’s health, confidence, and performance.We explore the physical and cognitive symptoms that often go unrecognized, the hidden cost to organizations when these challenges are ignored, and why awareness matters for both employees and leaders. Renee also offers practical strategies for creating more supportive workplaces—from normalizing conversations to redesigning systems that prioritize well-being and retention.If you care about workplace culture, leadership, and supporting women through critical life transitions, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Watch the full episode to learn how organizations can better support women—and why it matters for everyone. Keywords: perimenopause, workplace well-being, women's health, mental health, burnout, advocacy, organizational support, systemic change Key Topics:Perimenopause and its impact on women in the workforceWorkplace culture and psychological safetyStrategies for advocacy and self-advocacy during health transitions Guest Information: Renee Machel, CPC, CYT, MBSRLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneemachel/Websites:reneemachel.compenniecompanion.comgetmotiveted.com  Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true This full Episode from Leading Out Loud is available now on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts.#leadership#management#healthcare#mentorship#podcast#leadingoutloud

What if the path you start in veterinary medicine isn’t the one you’re meant to stay in?In this episode of Leading Out Loud, Jose Izarpate shares his inspiring journey from a 15-year-old veterinary assistant in East Los Angeles to becoming a Senior Talent Acquisition Manager helping to shape the future of the profession. His story challenges the common belief that clinical work is the only meaningful path in veterinary medicine—and reveals the vast ecosystem of roles that quietly keep the industry moving forward.Through his experience on both sides of the profession, Jose offers a candid look at the realities of veterinary recruiting, breaking down common misconceptions about talent acquisition and explaining why hiring isn’t about simply filling positions—it’s about building the right cultural fit for both the individual and the organization.This conversation explores the power of self-investment, the importance of aligning personal values with workplace culture, and how open, two-way conversations during the hiring process can transform careers and clinics alike.If you’ve ever wondered what makes a candidate truly stand out, how recruiters actually evaluate cultural fit, or whether there are alternative paths beyond clinical practice, this episode offers valuable insight from someone who has navigated multiple layers of the profession.Veterinary medicine is bigger than most people realize—and sometimes the most impactful roles happen behind the scenes.Guest Information: Jose Izarpate, RVT, CCFP, HRM, ACIRLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-izarpate-rvt-ccfp-hrm-acir-b11971187/Host Information: Bridget RollinsLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true

If you thought Part 1 was just about communication, Part 2 goes deeper.In the next episode, Shawn McVey moves beyond why difficult conversations matter and dives into how leaders actually handle them in real time. From the subtle mistakes that escalate conflict to the leadership behaviors that create true psychological safety, this conversation reveals what separates clinics that struggle with tension from those that build resilient, high-trust teams.If you’ve ever wondered what to say in the moment when emotions run high—or how great leaders turn conflict into growth—you won’t want to miss Part 2 – Available NOW!Because the hardest conversations in veterinary medicine are often the ones that shape the strongest teams.Guest Information: Shawn McVey, MA, MSWVeterinary Ownership AcceleratorLinkedIn - https://lnkd.in/gGzbyuY9Veterinary Growth Partners - https://lnkd.in/gMNQ7JVT Host Information: Bridget Rollins, EMBA, PhD CandidateLinkedIn - https://lnkd.in/gyuhby9UKings Consulting - https://lnkd.in/gjH48K7r

🚨 Episode 4: The Courage to Have the Conversation. Available NOW! 🚨What if the biggest leadership challenge in veterinary medicine isn’t medicine at all—but communication?In this powerful conversation, Shawn McVey unpacks why so many veterinary teams struggle with difficult conversations and what leaders can do about it. From emotional intelligence to conflict resolution, explore essential strategies that help teams communicate more effectively, build psychological safety, and navigate the tough moments that inevitably arise in high-stress clinical environments.If you’ve ever avoided a hard conversation, watched conflict quietly damage a team, or wondered how great leaders create cultures of trust—this episode offers practical insights that can transform the way veterinary teams work together.Because in veterinary medicine, better communication doesn’t just strengthen teams—it changes the culture of the clinic. Keywords: Leadership, Conflict Resolution, Emotional Intelligence, Veterinary Medicine, Team Building, Communication Skills, Workplace Culture  Key Topics:The importance of emotional intelligence in veterinary leadershipStrategies for managing conflict and difficult conversationsBuilding trust and psychological safety within teams  Guest Information: Shawn McVey, MA, MSWVeterinary Ownership AcceleratorLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawngmcvey/Veterinary Growth Partners - https://www.linkedin.com/company/veterinary-growth-partners/posts/?feedView=allHost Information: Bridget Rollins, EMBA, PhD CandidateLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-rollinsKings Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/kings-consulting-brollins/about/?viewAsMember=true

Episode 4. Part 1: The Courage to Have the Conversation. 🚨 Drops tomorrow, March 10th! 🚨What if the biggest leadership challenge in veterinary medicine isn’t medicine at all—but communication?In this powerful conversation, Shawn McVey unpacks why so many veterinary teams struggle with difficult conversations and what leaders can do about it. From emotional intelligence to conflict resolution, explore essential strategies that help teams communicate more effectively, build psychological safety, and navigate the tough moments that inevitably arise in high-stress clinical environments.If you’ve ever avoided a hard conversation, watched conflict quietly damage a team, or wondered how great leaders create cultures of trust—this episode offers practical insights that can transform the way veterinary teams work together.Because in veterinary medicine, better communication doesn’t just strengthen teams—it changes the culture of the clinic.Keywords: Leadership, Conflict Resolution, Emotional Intelligence, Veterinary Medicine, Team Building, Communication Skills, Workplace CultureKey Topics:The importance of emotional intelligence in veterinary leadershipStrategies for managing conflict and difficult conversationsBuilding trust and psychological safety within teamsGuest Information: Shawn McVey, MA, MSWVeterinary Ownership AcceleratorLinkedIn - https://lnkd.in/gGzbyuY9Veterinary Growth Partners - https://lnkd.in/gMNQ7JVTThis full Episode from Leading Out Loud will be available March 10th on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts.

In this engaging conversation Amanda Dunaway shares her insights on authentic leadership, managing through change, and the importance of leading with integrity and empathy. Discover practical tips for navigating leadership challenges and fostering a positive team culture.Keywords: leadership, authentic leadership, team culture, management, emotional intelligence, veterinary industry, leadership tips, organizational change.Key  topics:Authentic leadership and its impactManaging through organizational changeBuilding trust and psychological safetyThe importance of self-awareness and authenticity in leadership Guest Information: Amanda DunawayLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-dunaway

What if the biggest leadership challenge in veterinary medicine isn’t medicine at all—but communication?In this powerful conversation, Shawn McVey unpacks why so many veterinary teams struggle with difficult conversations and what leaders can do about it. From emotional intelligence to conflict resolution, explore essential strategies that help teams communicate more effectively, build psychological safety, and navigate the tough moments that inevitably arise in high-stress clinical environments.If you’ve ever avoided a hard conversation, watched conflict quietly damage a team, or wondered how great leaders create cultures of trust—this episode offers practical insights that can transform the way veterinary teams work together.Because in veterinary medicine, better communication doesn’t just strengthen teams—it changes the culture of the clinic. Keywords: Leadership, Conflict Resolution, Emotional Intelligence, Veterinary Medicine, Team Building, Communication Skills, Workplace Culture Key Topics:The importance of emotional intelligence in veterinary leadershipStrategies for managing conflict and difficult conversationsBuilding trust and psychological safety within teams Guest Information: Shawn McVeyVeterinary Ownership AcceleratorLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawngmcvey/Veterinary Growth Partners - https://www.linkedin.com/company/veterinary-growth-partners/posts/?feedView=all This full Episode from Leading Out Loud will be available March 10th on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts.#leadership #management #healthcare #mentorship #podcast #leadingoutloud   

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Jill Clark shares her journey in veterinary medicine, focusing on leadership, staff development, and industry innovation. Discover her pioneering work with the VRCE program, her leadership philosophy, and her dedication to elevating veterinary professionals.Guest Information: Jill Clark, DVMLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillclarkdvm/Ignite – https://www.ignitevet.com/North American Association of Veterinary Receptionists – NAAVR.org

In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Shandell Maxwell shares her leadership journey, the importance of wellness, community engagement, and the interconnectedness of human and animal health. Discover practical insights on authentic leadership, self-care, and creating impactful community programs.Guest Information: Shandell Maxwell, PhDByrd & Maxwell Coaching Institute - https://byrdmaxwell.com/Chioma Healing Group - https://www.instagram.com/chiomahealinggroupLinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/shandellmaxwell

In this engaging interview, Amanda Dunaway shares her insights on authentic leadership, managing through change, and the importance of leading with integrity and empathy. Discover practical tips for navigating leadership challenges and fostering a positive team culture.Guest Information: Amanda DunawayLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-dunaway

In the dynamic world of healthcare, true leadership transcends titles and formalities. The Leading Out Loud podcast dives deep into the genuine realities of leadership, providing invaluable insights for professionals navigating the complexities of their roles. Each episode features conversations that inspire and challenge traditional notions of leadership, making it a must-listen for anyone in leadership roles. 🚨The first three episodes drop March 3rd! 🚨#leadership #management#healthcare#mentorship#podcast#leadingoutloud