In this episode, I’m joined by a truly impactful voice in veterinary medicine—Dr. Bob Lester. If you’ve ever wondered how to build something big without losing the soul of the work… Bob’s your guy.

A veterinarian, entrepreneur, and systems thinker, Bob’s career spans small-town mixed animal practice, the founding of Banfield Pet Hospitals, academic leadership at Lincoln Memorial University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and now, his role as co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of WellHaven Pet Health—a company that’s quietly redefining what good corporate veterinary care can look like.

From scaling national brands and reimagining vet school education to leading with optimism, Bob brings a rare blend of clarity, compassion, and straight-talking wisdom. In this wide-ranging conversation, we go deep on what it really takes to lead—without burning out, selling out, or tuning out.

We talk about the messy middle between toxic positivity and chronic catastrophizing, how to build trust inside veterinary teams, and why who leads your practice matters more than what it looks like on paper. Plus, we explore mentorship, the future of GP care, and why now is actually a brilliant time to be in veterinary medicine—if we’re brave enough to lead with care and courage.

This one is full of strategic insight and grounded humanity. Bob is proof that you can scale without losing your heart. Grab a notepad—and maybe a shot of optimism—and dig in.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:00] Why Leadership in Vet Med Feels Broken (and How to Fix It)

[00:05:15] The Power (and Choice) of Optimism

[00:10:00] Trust, Toxic Positivity, and Real Talk in Teams

[00:14:30] What Actually Happens When You Get a Board Complaint

[00:24:12] From Blue-Collar Kid to C-Suite Vet Leader

[00:33:16] The Banfield Origin Story and Scaling Through PetSmart

[00:41:00] The Case for General Practice as the Hub of Vet Care

[00:50:01] How to Scale Leadership Without Killing Culture

[01:01:00] Why Taking Care of People Comes First

[01:08:24] Mentorship, Ownership, and What Really Works

[01:21:00] Distributed Vet Schools, Communication Skills & Hope for the Future

[01:23:15] Starting WellHaven: A Second Act With Heart

[01:27:00] Career Reflection: Building, Teaching, and Lifting Others

[01:33:19] Best Career Advice: Say Yes, Stay Curious, and Enjoy the Ride

• WellHaven Pet Health
• Connect with Dr. Bob Lester

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In this episode, I’m joined by an absolute powerhouse of a human being—Dr. Paula Yankauskas. A veterinarian, practice owner, and open-water swimming legend, Paula’s story is one of resilience, passion, and pushing the limits of what’s possible.

A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Paula has spent decades building and leading Lamoille Valley Veterinary Services, a thriving seven-doctor practice in rural Vermont. But as impressive as her veterinary career is, it’s her other life in the water that truly sets her apart.

Paula is one of a select few athletes to have completed the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming—a gruelling trifecta of the English Channel, the Catalina Channel, and the 20 Bridges Swim around Manhattan. Not stopping there, she went on to achieve the Frosted Triple Crown, which adds the mind-boggling challenge of an Ice Mile—swimming a full mile in water below 5°C (41°F).

From the discipline and endurance required to swim across the world’s toughest waters to the lessons of leadership, resilience, and goal-setting that she applies in veterinary medicine, Paula’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. We discuss how she balances her veterinary career with extreme endurance challenges, the mindset that allows her to push past discomfort, and the power of simply "just keep swimming."

Whether you’re looking for inspiration in your own career, curious about open-water swimming, or just love hearing stories about people who redefine what’s possible, this episode is one you don’t want to miss.

So grab a coffee (or maybe a wetsuit) and dive into this incredible conversation with Dr. Paula Yankauskas.

Episode Highlights

[00:01:00] The Meditative Power of Swimming

[00:03:12] Paula’s Journey to Veterinary Medicine & Founding Lamoille Valley Veterinary Services

[00:08:23] Taking the Leap: Her First English Channel Swim

[00:15:45] The Psychological Battle of Marathon Swimming

[00:22:10] Lessons from the Open Water & Applying Them to Vet Med

[00:31:30] How to Train for Extreme Endurance Events While Running a Business

[00:39:50] Facing the Cold – Completing the Frosted Triple Crown

[00:47:12] The Human-Animal Bond & Passion for Veterinary Behavioral Medicine

[00:55:43] Building a Successful Vet Practice in a Rural Community

[01:06:11] Why Work-Life Balance is a Myth & What to Focus on Instead

[01:15:38] How to Handle Setbacks & Keep Moving Forward

[01:30:02] Best Career Advice for Veterinary Professionals

[01:35:17] Final Thoughts: Just Keep Swimming

Follow Lamoille Valley Veterinary Services: https://lvvsonline.com/

Learn more about the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming: https://www.openwaterpedia.com/wiki/Triple_Crown_of_Open_Water_Swimming

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In this episode, I’m joined by none other than Dr. Evan Antin—the globetrotting vet with a knack for treating everything from household pets to some of the most exotic creatures on the planet. Known to millions as "America's Sexiest Veterinarian," Evan has carved out a unique career that blends adventure, veterinary medicine, and a passion for conservation.

From his Kansas roots to wrestling crocodiles and saving rhinos, Evan’s journey is as wild as the animals he cares for. As a practicing vet at Conejo Valley Veterinary Hospital in California, he balances his work with pets while traveling to far-flung corners of the globe, providing medical aid to animals in dire need. But it’s not all glamour—Evan dives deep into the challenges of being an exotic animal vet and the ethical questions conservationists face daily.

With his signature charm and relentless energy, Evan talks about his passion for educating millions through social media and TV, how he’s using his platform to advocate for responsible pet ownership, and the life-changing stories behind his book, World Wild Vet. Whether it's saving an orphaned rhino calf or teaching us about conservation one Instagram post at a time, Evan embodies what it means to lead with purpose and heart.

Grab your brew, sit back, and enjoy as we explore Dr. Evan's incredible journey from small-town Kansas to the global stage.

Episode Highlights:

[00:01:00] Ethical Social Media and Wildlife Conservation

[00:03:01] Meeting Dr. Marty Becker and Early Career Influences

[00:06:16] Growing Up in Kansas and the Passion for Wildlife

[00:10:40] Finding Veterinary Medicine as a Career Path

[00:15:55] Lessons from Steve Irwin and David Attenborough

[00:21:37] The Role of Social Media in Wildlife Awareness

[00:27:12] Surviving Vet School and Staying Motivated

[00:35:19] Writing World Wild Vet and Lessons from the Field

[00:41:23] The Dark Realities of Rhino Poaching

[00:46:06] Finding Hope in Conservation Efforts

[00:51:43] Dangerous Wildlife Encounters and Lessons Learned

[01:06:11] The Book Writing Process and Working with a Ghostwriter

[01:21:14] Supporting Legitimate Conservation Organizations

[01:30:02] Best Career Advice and Key Lessons for Vet Students

[01:35:17] Final Thoughts on Living in the Moment

Episode Links

• Dr. Evan Antin’s book: World Wild Vet
• Follow Dr. Evan Antin on Instagram: @dr.evanantin
• Learn more about Rhino 911: https://www.rhino911.com/

Follow Rhino 911 on Instagram: @rhino911npo

Today’s guest is a remarkable individual whose career spans decades, continents, and disciplines. Meet Rick LeCouteur—a trailblazer in veterinary neurology and neurosurgery, an educator who has mentored generations of veterinarians, and a passionate advocate for wildlife conservation.

Rick’s story begins in rural Australia, where his love for animals was ignited. Over the years, his relentless pursuit of knowledge led him to teach and lecture in more than 70 countries, transforming lives and veterinary practices along the way. From pioneering advancements in veterinary neurology to developing innovative surgical techniques, Rick’s career is a testament to the power of curiosity and resilience.

In his “retirement”—a term he redefines as “what’s next?”—Rick has become an acclaimed wildlife photographer, conservationist, and children’s author. His latest book, Nasty Names Are Hurtful: An Australian White Ibis in the City, combines his passions for storytelling, education, and the natural world. Tackling themes of empathy, resilience, and environmental conservation, Rick continues to inspire the next generation of animal lovers and environmental stewards.

In this episode, we explore Rick’s incredible journey from rural beginnings to global impact. We discuss the evolution of veterinary medicine, the art of mastering multiple careers, and how a simple belief—“What’s next?”—can fuel a life of purpose and joy. Whether you’re a vet, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply curious about how one person can make such a lasting impact, this conversation is for you.

So, grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and prepare to be inspired by the one-and-only Rick LeCouteur.

Episode Links

• Rick LeCouteur’s website
• Nasty Names Are Hurtful and other books by Rick LeCouteur on Amazon
• Rick’s blog: Insights on neurology, conservation, and creativity.

Episode Outline

00:01:29 Meet Rick LeCouteur

00:06:00 Early Influences

00:13:00 Challenges in Veterinary Medicine

00:20:00 Philosophy of “What’s Next”

00:26:00 Breaking Into Neurology

00:37:00 Writing for Kids

00:50:00 Mentorship Matters

01:09:00 Conservation Mission

01:19:00 Impact Through Creativity

01:33:00 Creativity and AI

01:42:00 Closing Reflections

Today’s guest is nothing short of extraordinary. His story is one of courage, compassion, and an unshakable sense of purpose. Meet Pen Farthing—a former Royal Marine Commando who took an unexpected turn to become an animal welfare champion and founder of the Nowzad Charity.

It all started with a stray dog Pen befriended during his time in Afghanistan, a bond that sparked the creation of the country’s first-ever animal rescue center. But this wasn’t just about saving animals—Pen’s mission empowered communities, employing Afghanistan’s first female veterinarians and running crucial rabies vaccination programs that saved both human and animal lives in regions desperate for such intervention.

Fast forward to 2021, when the world watched the chaotic withdrawal of coalition forces from Afghanistan and the Taliban’s rapid takeover of Kabul. Amid this turmoil, Pen spearheaded the now-famous Operation Ark. It was a mission fraught with danger and resistance, from navigating the deadly threat of the Taliban to overcoming relentless bureaucratic hurdles, political pressure, and a hostile media storm back in the UK. Headlines screamed accusations of 'prioritizing pets over people,' but the reality was far more complex. Pen’s focus was on rescuing his entire team alongside the animals, blending humanity with heroism in the darkest of circumstances.

The gripping story of Operation Ark is captured in Pen’s book, Operation Ark: The Tale of Courage and Compassion in Afghanistan’s Darkest Hour. Today, we’ll dive into what it really means to lead with integrity when the stakes couldn’t be higher, explore the personal cost of standing by your values, and learn what’s next for this remarkable individual.

So, make yourself a brew, settle in, and enjoy this powerful conversation with the one-and-only, Pen Farthing.

Episode Links

‘Operation Ark’ by Pen Farthing: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Operation-Ark-Pen-Farthing/dp/1910461709

Nowzad Charity: https://www.nowzad.com/

Follow Pen Farthing on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/penfarthing/

Follow Nowzad Charity on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nowzadrescue/

Connect with Pen Farthing on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pen-farthing-46b967ab/

Episode Outline

[00:01:30] The Birth of Nowzad Charity

[00:04:15] Vital Rabies Vaccine Programs

[00:07:50] The Chaos of 2021

[00:13:00] Facing the Taliban and Bureaucratic Hurdles

[00:19:45] The Misunderstood Mission

[00:26:10] The Role of US Service Personnel

[00:35:30] Life After Operation Ark

[00:42:00] Current and Future Work

[00:49:00] Closing Thoughts

On today’s show, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Jasmin Paris—a true powerhouse in the worlds of veterinary medicine and ultra-running.

Jasmin’s got a serious academic pedigree: Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Veterinary Science, PhD, and membership in the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Jasmin is a leading expert in small animal medicine, but honestly, it’s her jaw-dropping athletic feats that leave most of us in awe.

Jasmin is one of the most accomplished female ultra runners, particularly in Fell Running, on the planet. Just this March, she made history as the first woman ever to complete the brutal Barkley Marathons in Tennessee, a 100-mile monster with a 60-hour cutoff that only 20 people have ever conquered in its 38-year run. And that’s not all—back in 2019, Jasmin won the Montane Spine Race, a 268-mile winter ultramarathon across England’s Pennine Way, breaking the record by over 12 hours, all while expressing breast milk and caring for her 14-month-old daughter. She’s also crushed records in the 2016 British Fell Running Championship and the Bob Graham Round, blazing through that gruelling 66-mile challenge in an incredible 15 hours and 24 minutes.

From her days as a vet student, captivated by animals and the science behind their care, to her relentless pursuit of the next peak in mountain running, Jasmin is the embodiment of grit and passion. Today, we’ll dig into her incredible journey, exploring how she’s balanced—and thrived—at the intersection of veterinary medicine and ultra-running, and the lessons she’s picked up along the way.

So sit back, grab a cup of tea and enjoy my conversation with the one-and-only Dr. Jasmin Paris.

Episode Links

Dr Jasmin’s blog: https://jasminfellrunner.blogspot.com/

Follow Dr. Jasmin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasminparis_fellrunner/

The Green Runners: https://thegreenrunners.com/

Episode Outline

00:01:00] - Introduction to Dr. Jasmin Paris’s Dual Passions

[00:04:45] - Discovering the Call to Veterinary Medicine

[00:13:20] - First Steps into the World of Ultramarathons

[00:21:30] - Breaking Records at the Montane Spine Race

[00:28:10] - Preparing for the Barkley Marathons Challenge

[00:39:15] - Becoming the First Woman to Finish the Barkley

[00:47:20] - Lessons in Resilience from Running and Vet Medicine

[00:53:00] - The Key to Work-Life Balance and Recovery

[01:00:05] - The Power of Teamwork and Community

[01:05:50] - Final Advice for New Graduates

On today’s show, I’m joined by veterinarian, multiple practice owner and digital storyteller, Dr. Cody Creelman. Join us as we talk about Dr. Cody’s exciting journey in and out of veterinary practice, culminating in his new practice FenVet, an ultramodern clinic looking to reimagine veterinary care.

Dr. Cody began his veterinary career with a focus on large animal practice, where he quickly became a respected figure, known for his dedication and expertise. Amongst being a veterinarian, multiple practice owner, Cody is also a digital storyteller—sharing his story and daily adventures in entertaining and educational ways that have garnered over 20 million views, followed by loyal cohorts of ranchers, veterinary professionals and the public alike.

From working a construction job seven days a week to pay for university, to veterinary graduate, to partner, to multiple practice owner — Cody didn’t catch his breath. However, in 2019, a series of unexpected events led him to pivot dramatically, leaving behind his established career to explore new horizons. Cody loaded up his family and set off into the unknown. After swimming in America’s tidal pools, hiking Redwood’s National Park amongst the oldest trees in the world and sleeping out under the stars, a new challenge started to emerge for Cody.

Driven by a desire to innovate and improve the veterinary experience for both clients and practitioners. He opened FenVet in Airdrie, Alberta in May 2021. A new ultramodern clinic, mostly working with dogs and cats. FenVet's mission was clear from the start: to reimagine the veterinary care experience for the betterment of patients, clients, and the FenVet team. Born from Cody’s appetite for innovation, the clinic focuses on continually challenging traditional animal care paradigms with the ultimate aim of extraordinary experience and extraordinary innovation.

So sit back, grab a cup of tea and enjoy my conversation with the one-and-only Dr. Cody Creelman.

Links

FenVet: https://fenvet.com/

FenVet's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fenvetclinic/

Follow Dr Cody on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codycreelman/

Connect with Dr. Cody: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/cody-creelman-46b78156

Episode Outline

00:03:41 - Cody's Early Career and Achievements

00:05:30 - Career Pivot and Personal Reflection

00:11:21 - Finding Purpose Through Change

00:13:21 - Embracing Entrepreneurship

00:18:10 - Overcoming Anxiety and Embracing Vulnerability

00:26:22 - The Concept of Mortality in Career Choices

00:29:18 - The Genesis of Finn Vet

00:35:02 - The Blue Ocean Strategy in Veterinary Medicine

00:43:57 - Creating a Seven-Star Customer Experience

00:51:03 - Building an Empowered and Motivated Team

00:59:15 - Hiring and Cultivating the Right Culture

01:03:40 - Expanding with a Sourdough Starter Culture

01:08:12 - Navigating Economic Challenges in Veterinary Medicine

01:14:00 - Conclusion

On today’s show, I’m joined by veterinary surgeon turned King of online veterinary education, founder and CEO of The Webinar Vet, musician, environmentalist and Liverpool FC fan, Anthony Chadwick.

Anthony Chadwick knew from the age of 8 that he wanted to be a veterinarian. After graduating from his home university in Liverpool, he worked as a small animal veterinarian for over 20 years.

After attending a webinar conference in 2010, Anthony saw an opportunity. Looking to make veterinary education easier, more accessible and affordable for vet professionals with very busy lives, Anthony carved out and pioneered the first online space for veterinary education through his founding of The Webinar Vet in 2010.

The Webinar Vet has now been online for over 13 years, with over 3,000+ hours of video education and vets and nurses from well over 100 countries having benefited from its broad video encyclopaedia.

Anthony’s itch for pioneering and innovation doesn't stop there, as he continues to spread the word for circularity and sustainability in the veterinary business and beyond.

He has recently completed a Circular Economy and Sustainability Strategies course at the University of Cambridge, and is hosting the third annual Veterinary Green Discussion Forum in June of this year. With a principal focus on leaving the planet in the same way we found it, Anthony’s personal life and businesses are built on the foundation of circularity and sustainability. The Webinar Vet is Carbon Negative, having planted over 7,000 trees so far and has cultivated wildflower meadows near its office.

Anthony continues to facilitate regeneration into a more sustainable, environmentally friendly space by encouraging big and small companies to become more ambitious with their targets on climate, biodiversity and resource use to help keep our beautiful planet safe. And as a part of this mission, he is hosting the third annual Veterinary Green Discussion Forum at the London Wetland Centre on the 18th of June this year.

In this episode, Anthony discusses his personal journey from veterinary surgeon to starting The Webinar Vet, strategies for practices and business owners to improve their sustainability, global sustainability, pilgrimage and slowing down, and of course, the importance of Liverpool FC.

So sit back, grab a cup of tea and enjoy my conversation with the King of online education, Anthony Chadwick.

Links

To book your place at the annual Veterinary Green Discussion Forum, 18th & 19th June, contact Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonychadwick

The Webinar Vet: https://thewebinarvet.com/

Connect with Anthony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonychadwick

Episode Outline

[00:02:29] Pioneer of online education.

[00:04:32] Football rivalry dynamics.

[00:12:08] Vocation and identity in veterinary medicine.

[00:16:19] The importance of pets.

[00:19:21] Gratitude and faith in life.

[00:25:06] Pilgrimage experiences on Camino.

[00:29:20] Type 2 Fun.

[00:32:00] Lifelong curiosity and learning.

[00:43:11] Circular concept of sustainability.

[00:54:17] Sustainability in life

[01:18:19] Sustainability in veterinary practices.

[01:22:28] Sustainable business practices