362 - What it Really Means to be a Veterinarian

Dr. Marie Holowaychuk, board-certified emergency and critical care specialist, joins Dr. Andy Roark to talk about what it really means to be a veterinarian. In this heartfelt and honest conversation, Marie opens up about her own journey through burnout, perfectionism, and rediscovering joy in veterinary medicine. Her new book, A Compassionate Calling, explores the emotional highs and lows of the profession, from the drive to help animals to the toll it can take on mental health. Andy and Marie dig into why so many veterinarians struggle to stay fulfilled, how to set boundaries without guilt, and why self-compassion might just be the most underused skill in vet med. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance purpose and peace in your veterinary career, this episode will speak directly to your heart. Gang, let’s get into this episode!

Reviving VetMed: https://revivingvetmed.com/

A Compassionate Calling: What It Really Means to Be a Veterinarian: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-compassionate-calling-marie-holowaychuk/1147036390?ean=9781032389035

Marie on IG: https://www.instagram.com/marieholowaychuk

Marie on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marieholowaychuk

Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/about-uncharted-veterinary-conference-2026

Dr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/

Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/

Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shop

All Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoark

Dr. Marie Holowaychuk brings a refreshing perspective to veterinary medicine, championing the wellbeing of veterinary teams with warmth and expertise. Based in Calgary, she’s a respected emergency and critical care specialist and a familiar name in the world of veterinary wellness.

Alongside her ER work, Marie is a prolific writer, speaker, and researcher. You might catch her hosting the Reviving Vet Med podcast or sharing insights in her monthly blog and newsletter, all geared towards supporting mental health in the veterinary community.

When she's not at the clinic, Marie is a dedicated yoga and meditation teacher and wellness coach. She leads workshops and retreats for vet clinics, sharing practical strategies for staying balanced in a demanding field. Plus, she works behind the scenes on revivingvetmed.com, a go-to resource hub for veterinary professionals seeking support and guidance.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Marie finds joy in spending time with her daughter and beloved Standard Poodle. She stays active with strength training and HIIT, embodying the holistic approach to wellbeing she advocates for in her work.

Fun facts: I have played the violin, standing bass, oboe, and ukulele; I have never missed a season of Survivor; I am a huge Edmonton Oilers fan; I am an avid swimmer but am terrified of open water