373 - 2025 Post Mortem & Predicting 2026

Ryan Leech, founder and host of The Bird Bath podcast and principal at First 100 Veterinary Growth Consulting, joins Dr. Andy Roark for their annual year end tradition, breaking down the biggest veterinary industry stories of 2025 and what they mean for 2026. Feeling whiplash from corporate consolidation, tightening budgets, AI everywhere, and practices wondering what comes next? You are not alone. Andy and Ryan unpack what they call “the great compression,” from private equity shifts and practice group shutdowns to leadership changes at major players, all while keeping it light, honest, and very real. They also dig into the rapid rise of AI scribes, why they are more than just note takers, and how artificial intelligence could fundamentally change how practices use data without blowing up day to day medicine. You will walk away with clarity, perspective, and a better sense of how to think strategically about the future of veterinary medicine, plus a few laughs along the way. Gang, let’s get into this episode!

LINKS

The Bird Bath: https://www.thebirdbath.io

First 100 Veterinary Growth Consulting: https://www.first100.io

Ryan Leech on TikTok

Dr. Andy Roark Exam Room Communication Tool Box Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/on-demand-staff-training/

Dr. Know-It-All Card Game

Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course

Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shop

All Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoark

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Ryan Leech is a growth consultant and speaker who helps veterinary businesses navigate change and capture new opportunities. He hosts The Bird Bath, a weekly podcast exploring pet health trends, industry news, and insights. Previously, Ryan held key roles in business development and partnerships at leading veterinary organizations including Digitail, Galaxy Vets, and Veterinary Integration Solutions.