What does it take to lead, own, and influence the future of veterinary medicine? In this powerful episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, host Dr. Christie Cornelius welcomes Dr. Peter Weinstein—veterinarian, educator, author, and founder of Veterinary Ownership Advocates (VOA). With over 40 years in the industry, Dr. Weinstein shares his journey from new graduate to visionary leader, and how economic shifts, leadership lessons, and a changing profession shaped his purpose.

From the evolution of practice ownership to the realities of post-pandemic veterinary business, Dr. Weinstein offers tactical wisdom for the next generation of entrepreneurs. He discusses the importance of transparent leadership, succession planning, and why empathy is an essential skill in practice management today. You’ll also hear about his work with VOA, its unique micro-MBA program, and why collaboration—not competition—is the future of veterinary medicine.

Watch the full episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ybAnRla0P8A

#VeterinaryLeadership #IndependentVets #VetMedBusiness #IVPA #VOA #PracticeOwnership #EmpathyInLeadership #VetPodcast #VeterinaryEntrepreneurship #FutureOfVetMed

00:00 The Importance of Colleague Support in Veterinary Medicine

00:45 A Journey Through Veterinary Medicine: 1980s to Pandemic

07:54 Navigating Change: Lessons from the Pandemic

14:10 Fostering the Next Generation of Veterinary Entrepreneurs

18:05 Veterinary Ownership Advocacy: Bridging the Gap

23:59 Collaboration Among Veterinary Organizations

30:10 Succession Planning in Veterinary Practices

36:01 The Role of Mentorship in Veterinary Careers

41:47 Balancing Life and Veterinary Advocacy

In this special episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, host Dr. Christie Cornelius sits down with Dr. Bonnie Bragdon, founder and past president of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association (IVPA). Bonnie opens up about her inspiring journey—from single mom in vet school to influential leader in the veterinary field—and how resilience, curiosity, and bold leadership shaped her path.

Dr. Bragdon reflects on the challenges she overcame early in her career, the creation and impact of the IVPA, and her evolving vision for independent veterinary medicine. She shares practical advice on building networks, navigating ambiguity, and embracing leadership—especially for those starting out or pivoting into new ventures. Her candid stories offer encouragement and insight for anyone navigating the complexities of veterinary practice today.

Watch the full conversation on YouTube and hear more from Dr. Bonnie Bragdon and host Dr. Christie Cornelius: https://youtu.be/417OoD8yRIE

#VeterinaryLeadership #VetMed #VeterinaryInsider #IVPA #VeterinaryPodcast #WomenInVetMed #VeterinaryBusiness #ChristieCornelius #BonnieBragdon #IndependentVet

00:00 Introduction to the Journey03:12 Overcoming Early Challenges

06:07 Evolving Career Vision08:51 Mentorship and Networking

12:00 Founding the IVPA

14:47 Core Values and Leadership18:07 Focus and Dealing with Uncertainty

30:23 Navigating Ambiguity and Uncertainty

32:18 The Role of IVPA in Veterinary Advocacy

34:40 Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Veterinary Medicine

37:22 The Vision Behind the Veterinary Insider Podcast

41:06 Audience Insights and Podcast Impact

43:53 Embracing Authenticity and Conflict in Conversations

46:10 The Importance of Ownership in Veterinary Practice

49:44 Future of Independent Practice and IVPA's Role

51:34 Career Transitions and Networking in Veterinary Field

54:49 Supporting Colleagues in the Commercial Field

56:16 Competition and the Future of Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary school is tough—but what comes next can be truly rewarding. On this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, host Dr. Bonnie Bragdon talks with Dr. Bre Demaline, an emergency vet and rising leader in the profession. Dr. Bre reflects on her journey from vet student to practicing DVM, offering encouragement for current students and eye-opening insights for practice owners who want to better support new grads.

From surviving imposter syndrome to finding joy in surgery, Dr. Bre shares what helped her thrive early in her career—strong mentorship, collaborative teams, and saying yes to hands-on learning. She also discusses the role of the Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA) in shaping her leadership path and why independent practices play a key role in the future of vet med.

If you're navigating the leap from school to practice—or trying to guide someone who is—this episode is packed with real talk, honest advice, and a hopeful outlook. https://youtu.be/qJzvYkJcr7c

#VeterinaryInsider #VeterinaryPodcast #NewGradVet #VetStudents #EmergencyVet #VetMed #MentorshipMatters #VBMA #IndependentPractice #DVMlife #IVPA #WomenInVetMed

00:00 The Journey Begins: A Veterinarian's Hopeful Message

00:53 Veterinary School Experience: Challenges and Triumphs

04:02 Finding Your Path: Job Search and Networking in Vet School

07:09 Mentorship Matters: Building Supportive Relationships

09:48 Navigating Anxiety: First Year as a Veterinarian

13:05 Resources for Success: Tools and Communities

15:59 Job Interview Strategies: Finding the Right Fit

19:03 The Role of Independent Practices: A Personal Perspective

22:12 Staying Informed: The Importance of Industry News

23:06 The Future of Veterinary Medicine: Trends and Predictions

25:26 The Future of Independent Veterinary Practices

26:27 Navigating Early Career Challenges

30:02 Building Leadership Skills in Veterinary Medicine

32:46 Overcoming Workplace Challenges

35:31 Finding Joy Outside of Work

37:56 Embracing Surgical Opportunities

40:18 Learning and Growing in Veterinary Practice

42:11 The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership

44:00 Evolving Career Goals in Veterinary Medicine

47:30 Hope for the Future of Veterinary Medicine

In this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, host Dr. Bonnie Bragdon welcomes Dr. Lee Pope, a veterinarian who has experienced the full spectrum of practice ownership—from building and managing a clinic to selling it and working in corporate veterinary medicine. Dr. Pope shares his journey, offering candid insights into the challenges of practice ownership, staffing struggles, and the tough decisions that come with transitioning to corporate practice.Dr. Pope discusses the reality of independent practice, from the rewarding moments of client relationships to the difficulties of HR management and financial planning. He also sheds light on his experience selling to a corporate group, the pros and cons of corporate practice, and what veterinarians should consider before making a similar move. Whether you're an aspiring practice owner, a current owner considering your next steps, or a veterinarian weighing corporate vs. independent practice, this episode is packed with valuable advice.Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/TKGnLFxYyoo#VeterinaryMedicine #VetOwnership #VetBusiness #CorporateVeterinaryMedicine #VetSuccess #PracticeManagement #VetPodcast #TheVeterinaryInsider 00:00 The Pros and Cons of Corporate Practice00:50 Journey to Becoming a Veterinarian03:07 The Challenges of Veterinary Education05:02 Transitioning to Practice Ownership08:49 Navigating Employee Management13:01 Conflict Resolution in Veterinary Practice15:49 Building and Selling a Practice17:48 The Impact of Corporate Practices on Veterinary Careers25:12 The Landscape of Veterinary Mentorship27:12 Corporate vs. Independent Practice: Pros and Cons30:41 Navigating Corporate Challenges34:29 Lessons Learned from Selling a Practice37:44 Advice for Surviving Corporate Practice39:57 Transitioning to Industry: Opportunities and Networking48:28 Owning a Practice: Rewards and Responsibilities

How does owning a practice impact the future of veterinary medicine? What does it take to build, sell, and even start over again? In this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, host Dr. Bonnie Bragdon sits down with Dr. Beth Davidow, an emergency and critical care specialist, veterinary practice owner, and advocate for independent veterinary medicine.Key Takeaways from This Episode:🔹 The Value of Ownership: Why independent veterinarians should be at the center of the profession.🔹 Profitability & Purpose: Understanding why profit isn't a bad word and how financial success fuels better care and career longevity.🔹 Challenges in Selling a Practice: The lessons Dr. Davidow learned about selling her first practice and how she’s approaching ownership differently this time.🔹 Corporate vs. Independent: The real impact of private equity on veterinary medicine and how new ownership models—like ESOPs—are changing the landscape.🔹 Advice for Future Practice Owners: What young veterinarians need to know about ownership, finances, and planning for the future.Don't miss this insightful conversation on the realities of veterinary practice ownership and how to shape a career on your terms.Listen to the full episode here: https://youtu.be/1XW87UG4gqc#VetPodcast #VeterinaryMedicine #PracticeOwnership #VetLife #IndependentPractice #VetCareer #Leadership #VeterinarySuccess #IVPA 00:00 The Importance of Profit Margins in Veterinary Practices00:51 Dr. Beth Davidow's Journey to Veterinary Medicine02:47 Transitioning to Emergency and Critical Care05:52 The Evolution of 24-Hour Veterinary Care08:58 Challenges in Starting a Veterinary Practice10:50 Financing and Support for Women in Veterinary Practices11:43 Specialists: Corporate vs. Independent Practices15:55 Navigating Practice Ownership and Exit Strategies26:19 Exploring Alternative Exit Strategies for Veterinarians27:36 Navigating Life After Selling a Practice30:48 Surviving Corporate Commitments Post-Sale33:30 The Importance of Multiple Selves in Veterinary Careers34:55 Gender Dynamics in Veterinary Business37:14 Encouraging Women in Veterinary Leadership40:30 Profitability and Gender Disparities in Veterinary Medicine43:48 Owning the Future of Veterinary Medicine

Join Dr. Bonnie Bragdon as she sits down with Dr. Arnold Goldman, President of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association (IVPA), to discuss the future of independent veterinary medicine, the challenges of corporatization, and why ownership still matters for veterinarians today.You'll Discover the Heart Behind Veterinary Ownership: Dr. Goldman shares his lifelong passion for animals and the impact of owning his own practice; Corporatization vs. Independence: The effects of large corporate practices on care quality and client relationships;The IVPA's Mission: How the IVPA is advocating for independent practitioners and pushing for a voice in the AVMA House of Delegates; Advice for Aspiring Practice Owners: Practical insights for associates considering ownership and the incredible freedom that comes with it; The Boston Terrier Connection: A heartwarming glimpse into Dr. Goldman’s lifelong love for Boston Terriers.Listen Now: https://youtu.be/qdLlsoubNXcJoin the Movement! Whether you're an experienced vet or an associate exploring practice ownership, the IVPA offers resources, networking opportunities, and practical support to help you succeed.What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments or DM us!#VeterinaryMedicine #VetPodcast #VetPractice #VeterinaryProfession #IndependentVeterinaryPractice #VetLife #PetCare #VeterinarianOwners #IVPA #AVMA #VetCareInnovation #AnimalCare

00:00 Introduction to the Veterinary Insider Podcast01:12 Dr. Arnie Goldman's Journey to Veterinary Medicine02:50 The Impact of Corporatization on Veterinary Practices08:36 The Role of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association (IVPA)11:01 Personal Journey to Practice Ownership16:46 Travel Experiences and Professional Involvement20:38 Future Plans for the IVPA24:43 Benefits of Joining the IVPA28:32 Understanding the AVMA House of Delegates38:03 The Future of Veterinary Profession: Shortage or Surplus?43:52 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

In this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon sits down with Heather Moore, founder of PetCentric Health, to discuss how subscription-based care plans are transforming the veterinary industry. As pet care costs continue to rise, veterinarians and pet owners alike are searching for solutions that ensure pets get the care they need—without financial stress.Heather shares how her company helps independent veterinarians design customized care plans that provide pet owners with predictable costs while increasing compliance and revenue for clinics. She explains why the traditional fee-for-service model creates financial and emotional stress for both vets and clients, and how a subscription approach offers a win-win for all. From budgeting for preventative care to handling unexpected health issues, these plans simplify financial conversations and improve patient outcomes.If you're a veterinarian looking to enhance client relationships, streamline operations, and boost profitability, this episode is a must-listen. Plus, PetCentric Health is offering a limited-time promotion—schedule a demo by April 1st to receive 50% off the implementation fee.Listen now: https://youtu.be/XGPZETA0BAA#VeterinaryPodcast #PetHealth #VetCare #SubscriptionCare #VetBusiness #IndependentVets #IVPA #PetParents #FinancialWellness

00:00 Introduction to Veterinary Subscription Care02:22 Understanding the Relationship with Veterinarians04:35 Challenges in Veterinary Healthcare Costs08:27 Exploring Subscription-Based Care Models12:09 Workflow Benefits of Subscription Plans16:51 Addressing Misconceptions About Subscription Care21:53 Financial Flexibility and Catastrophic Coverage26:22 The Role of Data in Subscription Care Success30:43 Balancing Veterinary Needs and Pet Parent Expectations34:57 The Entrepreneurial Journey in Veterinary Care

The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

In this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon sits down with Dr. Mark Helfat, author of The Happy Veterinarian and founder of Veterinary Practice Transition. Dr. Helfat shares his journey into veterinary medicine, the value of independent practices, and how these businesses contribute to their communities. He also provides strategies for overcoming the challenges of selling practices, including NOLO practices, and debunks myths around ownership. The conversation addresses the corporatization of veterinary medicine and its impact on the profession. Dr. Helfat offers practical advice for valuing practices, securing financing, and ensuring smooth ownership transitions while maintaining the profession’s integrity. Dr. Helfat’s book, The Happy Veterinarian, is filled with actionable tips for thriving in veterinary careers. His website, Veterinary Practice Transition, connects buyers and sellers with tools for successful practice transitions. He also encourages listeners to explore his editorial, "Saving the Soul of Veterinary Medicine," on VIN for a deeper understanding of preserving independent practices. Tune in now! Listen on your favorite podcast platform or visit ivetinarians.org. Don’t miss this episode packed with insights, stories, and resources for veterinarians at every career stage! Full episode here: https://youtu.be/uSlruyhlfLA #VeterinaryMedicine #IndependentPractice #PracticeOwnership #VeterinaryTransitions #VetCare #TheVeterinaryInsider #VetSuccess

00:00 - Navigating the Transition: Self-Care for Retiring Veterinarians 02:51 - The Journey to Veterinary Medicine: Passion and Purpose 06:12 - The Impact of Corporatization on Veterinary Practices 09:03 - Corporate vs. Independent Practices: What Can Be Learned? 11:48 - The Future of Veterinary Medicine: Trends and Predictions 15:08 - Facilitating Practice Transitions: A New Approach 18:12 - Understanding NOLO Practices: Opportunities and Challenges 21:06 - Advice for New Owners: Starting Strong 24:00 - Emotional Aspects of Selling a Practice 26:56 - Success Stories and Mentorship in Veterinary Medicine 30:08 - Finding Happiness in Veterinary Careers: Alternatives to Ownership The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.