To celebrate Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, we’re flipping the script - literally. Matt Rendle and Jo Megarity step in as guest hosts, giving Mike and Julian a taste of the guest seat for once.

We discuss the vital role of veterinary nurses, their professional evolution, and notable experiences in the field. The discussion highlights the indispensable teamwork between vets and nurses, the evolving educational standards, and crucial issues like imposter syndrome and professional respect.

This isn’t just another episode - it’s a proper celebration of the voices that deserve to be heard more often!

Dr David Williams joins Mike and Julian for an extensive conversation that spans various topics including the power of a bow tie, lifelong learning, and the intersection of faith and veterinary medicine. Dr Williams shares heartwarming anecdotes from his life and career, recounts his near-death experience, and discusses the importance of joy and empathy in veterinary practice. The episode also delves into ophthalmology, highlighting Dr Williams' expertise and passion for teaching. This engaging conversation is filled with humour, wisdom, and a deep love for veterinary science.

In this episode, Mike and Julian are joined by Andy Green – small animal vet, leadership mentor, and Director at the employee-owned Pennard Vets.

Andy explores the importance of forming habits, nurturing a growth mindset, and the power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Learn how he has mastered the guitar, adopted daily practices, and even ventured into helicopter flying.

Packed with practical tips on staying present, communicating effectively in vet consultations, and fostering a positive mindset, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to transform their daily routine and achieve mastery in various aspects of life.

In this engaging episode of Veterinary Ramblings, Mike and Julian are joined by Rebecca Amos from the Highland Wildlife Park. Rebecca sheds light on her intriguing work involving the reintroduction of wild cats, challenges of conservation projects, and the diverse species she works with, including polar bears and medicinal leeches. The conversation ranges from the specifics of wild cat reintroduction, the ethical considerations of keeping animals in captivity, to the fascinating world of invertebrate medicine. Rebecca also shares personal anecdotes about her life in the Highlands, including her climbing adventures and love for the majestic landscapes. The episode is packed with informative discussions on wildlife conservation, the adaptation of polar bears to changing climates, and the potential future of de-extinction projects.

In this episode, Mike and Julian are joined by Fergus Allerton, a leading voice in antimicrobial stewardship within veterinary medicine, to tackle the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

They kick things off with a light-hearted chat about sore throats and antibiotics before diving into the complexities of AMR and the global risks it poses. Fergus breaks down how antimicrobial resistance develops, why responsible antibiotic use is critical, and highlights key initiatives like the PROTECT ME guidelines and Antibiotic Amnesty.

The conversation also explores parallels between human and veterinary medicine, the role of education—especially for children, and how One Health links human and animal health.

Fergus shares his personal experiences, including his work as an independent visitor with Barnardo’s and his passion for veterinary medicine. To wrap up, he takes on the 60-second CPD challenge, offering practical, actionable steps for vets to make a real impact in antimicrobial stewardship.

🎧 Tune in to find out how YOU can play a role in protecting antibiotics for future generations!

In this episode, Julian and Mike introduce Allison Johansson, an expert on managing stress and trauma. The discussion revolves around techniques for dealing with acute and chronic stress, using unconventional but effective methods such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and polyvagal theory.

Allison explains how to identify and address stress responses, comparing them to a small child seeking attention. She elaborates on the physiological and psychological aspects of stress and trauma, offers quick tips for managing day-to-day stress, and highlights the importance of feeling safe.

The dialogue also touches on specific stress triggers for veterinarians and strategies to cope with burnout. Allison concludes with a 60-second CPD segment on finding safety in stress and announces her upcoming book on well-being in veterinary medicine.

In this episode, Dr Dave Nicol joins Julian and Mike to share his journey from veterinary practice owner to author and mentor for aspiring vets. Together, they explore the complexities of leadership within veterinary medicine, the vital role of mentorship, and Dr Nicol's innovative approach to enhancing both emotional and practical support for new graduates.

The conversation also touches on his passion for triathlons, the importance of rest and recovery, and key considerations in end-of-life care for pets. With a mix of personal stories, professional insights, and Dr Nicol's forward-thinking ideas, this episode offers valuable advice on making veterinary practice more sustainable and fulfilling. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that blends experience, empathy, and expertise.

In this episode of Veterinary Ramblings, hosts Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by wildlife conservationist Nicky Fish for an inspiring exploration of bats, biodiversity, and beyond.

Nicky shares her deep knowledge of bat conservation, discussing the threats they face from climate change and wind farms, while shedding light on their remarkable echolocation abilities. The conversation also dives into the art of bodging, building wildlife-friendly habitats, and Nicky’s personal truffle-hunting adventures with trained dogs in the picturesque landscapes of Snowdonia.

With captivating stories of Welsh wilderness, practical conservation tips, and a deep passion for preserving nature, this episode is a must-listen for nature lovers and eco-enthusiasts alike.