From Manager to Owner: From “running the playbook” to writing your own—people first, profit follows with Claire Pickens EMBA, CVPM

In this episode, I sit down with Claire Pickens, EMBA, CVPM: certified veterinary practice manager, entrepreneur, and business strategist with over 30 years in animal health. Claire has helped countless veterinary owners turn big ideas into bank-ready business plans, while leading operations across the country with expertise in leadership, HR, and practice management.

We dive into what it really takes to shift from managing someone else’s playbook to writing your own as an owner. From opening a practice before ever managing one, to defining values that hold steady through recessions and pandemics, Claire shares candid lessons, practical strategies, and the people-first approach that’s guided her success.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why people, not KPIs, are the only true leading indicator

• How to coach to behaviors and outcomes, not just metrics

• The surprising transferable skills from coaching and practice

• What every aspiring owner should study: HR, marketing, and IT basics

• How to define your values before day one and use them to guide tough calls

Connect with Claire Pickens:🔗 Website: www.smallbusiness-dreams.com🔗 LinkedIn: Claire Pickens, CVPM

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