The Cone of Shame Veterinary Podcast

Dr. James Oldeschulte joins Dr. Andy Roark to talk about a topic you probably didn’t think you’d hear on your commute today: fecal transplants. Yep, we’re diving into poop and how it is changing the way we treat veterinary patients. If you’ve always thought fecal microbiota transplants were only for chronic diarrhea or parvo puppies, think again. Dr. Oldschulte breaks down why acute diarrhea cases are now a prime place to reach for this tool, how screening donor dogs works, and why capsules are making this treatment easier and more accessible than ever. You’ll learn how fecal transplants can help restore the gut microbiome quickly, why pet owners are often more open to it than you’d expect, and how this approach fits into the larger movement toward antibiotic stewardship in veterinary medicine.This episode is brought to you by Amend Pet. Poop donor to dose: FMT made easy.Consortium guidelines on FMT (Open Access): https://www.advancesinsmallanimalcare.com/article/S2666-450X(24)00006-3/fulltextENOVAT guidelines on the efficacy of antimicrobial and nutraceutical treatment for canine acute diarrhoea (Open Access):https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1090023323001053?via%3Dihubhttps://www.amendpet.com/ Amend Pet has helped make fecal transplant easy and accessible for my patients.Dr. Know-It-All Card GameDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkI'm an emergency veterinarian in Austin, Texas, and one of the directors of new ER doctor education at Veterinary Emergency Group. I'm passionate about evidence-based medicine, technology, and empowering others through education. I have a background in healthcare technology and have spent the first 5 years of my career collecting and sharing knowledge by creating web-based applications for veterinary professionals—such as DogsCatsMedicine.com. In my free time, I enjoy exploring my cross-industry interest in resilience engineering, mountain biking, and playing music.

Beckie Mossor, RVT, joins Dr. Andy Roark to dig into the surprising results of NAVTA’s 2024 demographic survey of veterinary technicians. Salaries are climbing, yet job satisfaction is dropping fast. How do we make sense of this? Beckie unpacks the data, from the overwhelming push for title protection and standardized credentialing, to the growing frustrations around underutilization in practice. This episode takes on tough but essential questions: Why do so many techs still need multiple jobs to get by, even with pay increases? What role does proper utilization play in career satisfaction? And how can practices do better at recognizing the full scope of a credentialed technician’s skills? If you’ve ever wondered what the future looks like for veterinary technicians, or how to keep your team engaged and fulfilled, this conversation is full of insights you can take back to your clinic. Gang, let’s get into this episode!Article Referenced: https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/personal-professional-development/navta-2024-demographic-survey-results/Beckie Mossor on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beckie-mossor-bis-mpa-rvt-37a55527/NAVTA: https://navta.net/Dr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkBeckie is the current President of the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America, where she has contributed to national conversations on technician utilization, representation on veterinary medical boards, and equity in veterinary organizational structures. Her work has been published in professional outlets, and she regularly presents on the intersections of veterinary medicine, leadership, and advocacy.She is the founder of the Veterinary Industry Giving Tree, a nonprofit dedicated to helping veterinary professionals in need during the winter holidays. She is a co-host of the Veterinary Viewfinder Podcast, where she has demonstrated nearly a decade of bringing controversial conversations and fierce advocacy to the profession.

Dr. Chelsie Estey, Chief Veterinary Officer for Hill’s US, joins Dr. Andy Roark to unpack the brand-new 2025 State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report. If you think shelter trends are all about “too many pets, not enough adopters,” think again. This massive study digs into the real barriers behind pet adoption and relinquishment, from the rising costs of care and housing challenges to surprising generational differences in how people make adoption decisions.In this episode, Dr. Andy Roark and Dr. Chelsie Estey talk through what keeps pets in shelters longer, why affordability is shaping adoption choices, and how shelters are innovating with foster programs and community support. You’ll hear success stories from shelters tackling adoption hurdles in creative ways and learn how veterinary teams can play a critical role in keeping pets and families together. If you work in shelter medicine, general practice, or just want to understand where pet adoption trends are headed, this conversation is packed with insights you can use right away.This episode is brought to you ad-free by Hill's Pet Nutrition!Hill's Pet Nutrition: https://www.hillspet.com/Hill's Food, Shelter and Love Program: https://www.hillspet.com/food-shelter-love/my-shelter2025 Hill’s Pet Nutrition State of Shelter Pet Adoption Report: https://www.hillspet.com/shelter-report?lightboxfired=trueShelter Animals Count National Database: https://www.shelteranimalscount.org/Dr. Andy Roark Exam Room Communication Tool Box Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark SwagAll LinksChelsie Estey, MSc, DVM, DACVIM (Neurology) was appointed U.S. chief veterinary officer of Hill’s Pet Nutrition in March 2025. Dr. Estey, a veterinary neurologist, has contributed to the field through scientific publications and book chapters. She holds a doctor of veterinary medicine degree from the Atlantic Veterinary College and completed a neurology and neurosurgery residency at Cornell University. She also has a master of science degree from the University of Ottawa and a bachelor of science degree from the University of New Brunswick.

Dr. Nathan Peterson, DVM, DACVECC, MA Bioethics joins Dr. Andy Roark to dive into one of the hardest questions in veterinary medicine: what happens when treatments feel futile? As an emergency and critical care specialist at Cornell with a master’s in bioethics from Harvard, Dr. Peterson has studied how veterinary teams wrestle with cases where the outcome may not change and the burden often falls on technicians carrying out the plan.In this conversation, Andy and Nathan unpack how veterinarians and technicians define medical futility, why perspectives often differ, and how the lack of agency can increase moral distress among support staff. They explore practical strategies to reduce burnout, strengthen team communication, and involve technicians in client discussions to create shared understanding. Gang, let’s get into this episode.Nathan Peterson on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-peterson-DVM-DACVECCDr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkNathan Peterson, DVM, MBE, DACVECC is an Associate Clinical Professor at Cornell University. He received his DVM from The Ohio State University and completed his internship and residency training in Emergency and Critical Care medicine at Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston. Following board certification, he spent 12 years as the head of the Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine at a tertiary referral hospital in Los Angeles before taking his current position at Cornell. He completed a Master of Bioethics through the Harvard Medical School Center for Bioethics in 2023 and has published works exploring the impact of providing futile treatments in veterinary medicine.

Tabitha Kucera, RVT, VTS (Behavior) joins Dr. Andy Roark to tackle one of the most nerve-wracking clinic moments: the lunging, growling dog that makes everyone’s heart rate spike. What do you do when a giant breed charges into the exam room, the owner refuses muzzle training or pre-visit meds, and you’re left feeling like your only option is to “just get it done”? In this lively and practical conversation, Tabitha breaks down how to approach fearful and aggressive dogs with empathy and skill. She shares strategies to reduce fear, anxiety, and stress (FAS) through considerate handling, communication with pet owners, and team-wide planning. From lobby management to sedation protocols, she helps reframe these tough cases as opportunities to improve animal welfare, client trust, and staff safety. If you’ve ever struggled with patient handling, client education, or burnout tied to aggressive dogs, this episode is packed with insight you can use right away. Gang, let’s get into this episode!Chirrups and ChatterTabitha Kucera on InstagramTails From A Vet Tech PodcastDr. Know-It-All Card GameDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkTabitha Kucera is an Elite Fear Free Registered Veterinary Technician, Veterinary Technician Specialist (Behavior), Certified Cat Behavior Consultant, and Karen Pryor Academy Certified Training Partner. She owns Chirrups and Chatter Cat and Dog Behavior Consulting and Training and is the animal behavior technician at The Gentle Vet in Ohio. Tabitha lectures at both regional and national levels, enjoying the opportunity to help people better understand and connect with animals. Additionally, Tabitha is a Fear Free certified speaker and coach, a Fear Free Practice Certification and Implemention Consultant, and the host of the podcast, Tails from a Vet Tech. Tabitha offers organizational consulting and education for veterinary clinics and animal shelters, focusing on best practices that address both the emotional and physical needs of animals. She specializes in behavior and training programs and handling skills.  Tabitha has contributed to the development of training and behavior programs for numerous veterinary hospitals and shelters and continues to provide ongoing support to these organizations through her consulting work.

Matt Salois, PhD, joins Dr. Andy Roark to talk about why not every shiny new idea in veterinary medicine is a good idea. From the surge in new veterinary schools to the debate on mid-level practitioners and telemedicine, Matt raises the question: are we solving problems or just creating new ones? With his trademark humor and economist’s lens, he makes the case for smarter, not faster, change in vet med. In this episode, you’ll hear a fresh take on why retention may matter more than recruitment, how productivity really impacts our profession, and why veterinary medicine doesn’t have to copy the mistakes of human healthcare. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance innovation with caution, this conversation will get you thinking.Article Referenced: https://todaysveterinarybusiness.com/veterinary-lessons-viewpoint-0625/Dr. Andy Roark Resources Dr. Andy Roark Exam Room Communication Tool Box Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark SwagMatthew Salois, PhD is currently the President of the Veterinary Study Groups, Inc. (VSG), where he is responsible for enhancing the economic and cultural success of more than 1,800 veterinary member practices.Most recently, Matt was the chief economist and head of the veterinary economics division at the AVMA between 2018 and 2022, where he applied his skills in economics, business, and communication to support the daily lives of veterinarians.From 2014 to 2018, he served as director of global scientific affairs and policy at Elanco Animal Health, supervising a team of scientists in veterinary medicine, human medicine, animal welfare, economics and sustainability. His group devised and executed scientific engagement strategy, and built collaborative partnerships with universities, non-profit associations and scientific societies.Matt is also an adjunct professor of applied economics at the University of Florida, where he previously taught and advised graduate and undergraduate students. He earned his Ph.D. in Applied Economics from the University of Florida and holds an M.A. in Economics and a B.S. in Health Services Administration from the University of Central Florida.

Dr. Ginger Templeton, DVM, COO of HomewardVet and MOVES, joins Dr. Andy Roark to explore what the future of veterinary careers could look like and spoiler alert: it’s not one-size-fits-all. In this episode, Andy and Ginger dive into the concept of autonomy in veterinary medicine, especially as the profession continues to shift toward a more fragmented, customizable future. Ginger shares her journey from burnout in traditional general practice to launching a mobile house call business and eventually helping build two innovative companies that support both specialists and GPs in practicing on their terms. If you’ve ever daydreamed about setting your own schedule, working independently, or building a career that actually fits your life, this one’s for you. You’ll learn about the operational support structures behind mobile vet work, the different ways autonomy can show up across career stages, and how Ginger’s team is making house calls less lonely and more sustainable. Let’s get into this episode!This episode is brought to you ad-free by HomewardVet!LINKShttps://www.homewardvet.com/https://www.vetmoves.com/leadership/HomewardVet: https://www.linkedin.com/company/homewardvetWebsite: https://drandyroark.comHighlighted Links: https://linktr.ee/drandyroarkUncharted Vet: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/homeFacebook: http://facebook.com/DrAndyRoarkInstagram: http://instagram.com/drandyroarkABOUT OUR GUESTDr. Ginger Templeton is the Chief Operating Officer of MOVES Mobile Veterinary Specialists and HomewardVet. She has over 15 years clinical experience in general practice, including five as the owner of a busy concierge house call practice in Raleigh, NC. Ginger brings a unique approach to the executive role thanks to her training as an executive coach. She has worked with a wide-variety of veterinary clinicians and industry executives and leaders, which informs her approach with the team at MOVES and HomewardVet. In addition to her professional responsibilities, Ginger is a proud and vocal supporter of LGBTQ+ rights and DEI initiatives within the profession and outside and is a proud member of PrideVMC. She is also mom to two delightful young adults who are dedicated to making a positive impact in this world in their own ways. She became a mom during vet school and her experiences as a young mom early in her career and a mom of a child with a serious illness have also informed her approach to empathy, boundaries, and wellbeing in the veterinary profession.

Dr. Brian Bourquin, president of Not One More Vet (NOMV), joins Dr. Andy Roark to unpack the current state of mental health and wellness in veterinary medicine. What started as a small Facebook group has grown into a powerhouse nonprofit providing grants, peer support, accreditation programs, and a safety net for veterinary professionals in crisis.In this candid conversation, Brian shares NOMV’s evolution, the impact of programs like Clear Blueprint and Lifeboat, and what he really thinks about the progress we’ve made in tackling veterinary burnout and mental health challenges. He also opens up about his own journey as a practice owner at Boston Veterinary Clinic, including the hard lessons he learned about leading with compassion and protecting his team. If you’ve ever wondered where veterinary wellness truly stands today, or how leaders can put real change into practice, this episode offers both hope and honest perspective.NOMV.orgRace Around the WorldNOMV CLEAR BlueprintNOMV Advocates Programwww.bostonveterinaryclinic.comBrian Bourquin on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brian-bourquin-3356a6Dr. Andy Roark Resources Dr. Andy Roark Exam Room Communication Tool Box Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Swag Fueled by childhood dreams of being a keeper at his own zoo, Dr. Bourquin realized from a young age his path – a career in veterinary work. His journey began with graduation from Cornell University, the No. 1 school in the U.S. for veterinary medicine. After 13 years as a Boston veterinarian, he founded Boston Veterinary Clinic in 2012, placing an emphasis on trust, compassion, and top-level patient care. Embraced by the pet-loving community and with the aid of like-minded veterinary professionals, the practice has grown to 5 locations, each focusing on the best medicine possible with accreditations from AAHA, Fear Free, and Cat-Friendly Practices.

Dr. Simon Haeder joins Dr. Andy Roark to dig into a surprising question: if a parent is hesitant to vaccinate their child, are they also likely to be hesitant about vaccinating their pet? The answer is more complex than you might expect. Drawing from his research published in JAVMA, Dr. Haeder shares insights on the correlation between human and pet vaccine hesitancy, what drives those concerns, and how trust in a veterinarian can be a powerful factor in pet owners’ decisions. The conversation covers everything from social media misinformation to the shifting role of veterinarians in a changing industry, plus what the future of veterinary care could look like in a post-truth world. You will walk away with a fresh perspective on how building long-term relationships with clients can influence public health, patient safety, and the human–animal bond. Let’s get into this episode!Article Referenced: https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/86/2/ajvr.24.06.0163.xmlDr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkDr. Simon F. Haeder is an Associate Professor of Public Health at Texas A&M University’s School of Public Health, where he also serves as Health Policy Cognate Chair in the Department of Health Policy and Management. A nationally recognized scholar on health policy, access to care, and vaccine hesitancy, Dr. Haeder’s work bridges human and veterinary medicine, exploring how public perceptions and trust influence healthcare decisions. His research has been published in leading journals such as Health Affairs, Vaccine, and JAVMA, and he is a frequent contributor to national conversations on public health through outlets like The Washington Post, The Conversation, and Health Affairs Blog. With a career spanning academia, policy advising, and interdisciplinary research leadership, Dr. Haeder brings a unique perspective on how trust, science, and policy intersect in shaping the future of healthcare.

Cone of Shame 347 - When Care Can't Wait: Being Prepared for Critical CasesJulia Sosa, Chief Experience Officer at Pumpkin Pet Insurance, joins Dr. Andy Roark for a must-hear conversation on what happens when care can't wait. Ever had that moment in clinic when a pet’s situation is critical and the client is staring at an estimate, panicked and unsure what to do? This episode dives headfirst into the chaos of urgent cases and how we, as veterinary professionals, can better support clients in the middle of that emotional storm. Julia shares how Pumpkin’s new urgent-pay service, Pumpkin Now, is transforming how pet insurance works in those high-stakes moments, giving owners financial clarity within minutes and helping vet teams stay focused on care, not claims. Dr. Andy and Julia unpack why pet insurance is often misunderstood, what it really means to be “hospital-centric,” and how to streamline workflows without overburdening teams. Whether you’re skeptical of insurance or already a fan, this episode brings new insight into making emergency care more accessible. Gang, let’s get into this episode.PumpkinNow Expedited Payment Terms: Qualified customers with eligible claims for treatments $1k or more could be paid in 15 minutes after submitting a request if their bank accepts real-time payments. For full terms & conditions, visit www.pumpkin.care/pn-terms. For pet insurance terms and conditions, visit: https://www.pumpkin.care/sample-plan/. Products are underwritten by either Independence American Insurance Company (NAIC #26581), or United States Fire Insurance Company (NAIC #21113), and produced by Pumpkin Insurance Services Inc. (“Pumpkin”) (NPN #19084749; CA License #6001617).Pumpkin Care for Veterinarians: https://www.pumpkin.care/for-veterinarians/Charming the Angry Client Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/Dr. Andy Roark Swag: https://drandyroark.com/store/All Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkJulia Sosa is a Design Leader whose lifelong love of animals led to her passion and focus in the pet care and veterinary industries. As a founding member and Chief Experience Officer of Pumpkin, one of the fastest-growing pet insurance companies in the United States, Julia leads UX research, strategy, and product design for their member and veterinary experiences. In January 2024, she started coursework to become a Veterinary Technician and explore her dream of becoming a late-in-life veterinarian.Julia is an active member of the rescue and shelter community and a devoted foster and adoption counselor for the ACC. She is the proud pet mom to two small dogs, two large cats, three chickens, and over 112+ foster kittens (and counting).

Dr. Cory Woliver, DVM, emergency and critical care lecturer at the University of Florida, joins Dr. Andy Roark to discuss venomous snake bite management in veterinary practice. Ever wondered how many vials of anti-venom to give when a copperhead or rattlesnake strikes? This episode cuts through the guesswork on coagulation testing, anti-venom dosing strategies, pain control options, and when to hospitalize versus treat as an outpatient. Dr. Woliver explains why steroids, NSAIDs, and routine antibiotics often miss the mark and how early, aggressive anti-venom is your best defense against tissue necrosis. You’ll learn practical tips on evaluating bite severity, setting client expectations, and choosing between strong opioids like methadone or hydromorphone for pain relief. Whether you see one snake bite a season or dozens, this one-stop shop equips you with the science and experience to act confidently under pressure. Let’s get into this episode.National Snake Bite Support Website: https://www.nationalsnakebitesupport.org/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/national.snakebite.support/Snake Bite Foundation Website: https://www.snakebitefoundation.org/Dr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkCory Woliver is a veterinarian practicing as a Clinical Lecturer in Emergency and Critical Care at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. He earned his BS in biology at SUNY Stony Brook and his DVM at Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine. During his 18-month emergency and critical care-focused internship at Colorado State University, he treated a large number of snake envenomations. He has also earned a certificate in hemodialysis through the University of California – Davis.After his postgraduate training, Dr. Woliver spent several years in private practice in New York before coming to the University of Florida in 2019. His clinical interests include snakebites (especially coral snake envenomations), acute kidney injuries, and extracorporeal therapies. He is currently the PI for the clinical trial using Varespladib in coral snake envenomated patients.

What if improving your clinic’s communication could reduce turnover, boost job satisfaction, and enhance medical quality? Dr. Jason Coe is back on the podcast with brand-new research that shows how “relational coordination” (aka how roles within your team communicate and collaborate) impacts everything from psychological safety to employee retention. In this episode, Dr. Coe and Dr. Andy Roark dive into the findings from a cross-industry communication model now being applied to veterinary teams. They explore what high vs. low relational coordination looks like in real life, how communication systems like impactful rounds and EMR notes can move the needle, and why this data matters for improving not just morale but also patient outcomes. Whether you're a practice owner, a manager, or just someone who wants your team to function better, this episode offers both inspiration and real takeaways. Gang, let’s get into this episode!Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/relationship-centred-veterinary-medicine-at-the-ontario-veterinary-collegeUniversity of Guelph: https://rcvm.uoguelph.ca/Dr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkDr. Jason Coe is a Professor at the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. After graduating from the College in 2001, he returned from mixed-animal practice to complete a PhD in the area of veterinary communications in 2008. In the same year, Jason joined the Ontario Veterinary College in the Department of Population Medicine where he has established an active research program examining the human-animal bond as well as the role of interpersonal communications on the outcomes of veterinary care.  In his current role at the College, he coordinates the clinical-communication curriculum across all 4 years of the veterinary program and is involved in teaching students about the relationships that exist between people and animals.Over the past two decades, Jason has established an international reputation for his leadership in veterinary communications, primary-care veterinary education and understanding the human-animal bond. He has published over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles, contributed to several book chapters, and is regularly invited to speak nationally and internationally at scientific and continuing-education conferences. Jason currently holds the VCA Canada Chair in Relationship-Centred Veterinary Medicine (2021-2026), at the Ontario Veterinary College, dedicated to research and education in communication and relationship-building to improve the outcomes of veterinary care. In 2021, Jason was honoured with the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Bustad Companion Animal Veterinarian of the Year Award for his notable contributions to the veterinary profession and in 2022, he founded the research program Relationship-Centred Veterinary Medicine at the Ontario Veterinary College (https://rcvm.uoguelph.ca/).  

What do you do when your big, lovable diabetic cat suddenly develops renal disease? You call in the nutritionist cavalry! In this episode, Dr. Andy Roark is joined by boarded veterinary nutritionist Dr. Caitlyn Getty to tackle a real-world “hot mess express” case: Claudia, an obese diabetic cat who’s now showing signs of kidney issues. Together, they dig into the complexities of nutritional management for cats with multiple chronic conditions. Dr. Getty breaks down why common diets can conflict with one another in cases like this, and how Hill’s Prescription Diet Multi-Organ Feline can help bridge the gap. They cover protein and phosphorus challenges, insulin dosing concerns, fiber benefits, and the power of a slow and steady transition when switching foods. Whether you’ve got cats with combo problems like diabetes and kidney disease or just love nerding out over nutrition, this episode is full of practical takeaways and clinical insight. Let’s get into this episode.Check out the downloadable team training worksheet and follow along together! Empower your team to educate clients using the notes and discussion questions.This episode is brought to you by Hill's Pet Nutrition!Hill's VetHill's Veterinary AcademyDr. Andy Roark Exam Room Communication Tool Box Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark SwagAll LinksABOUT OUR GUESTCaitlyn is a Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist® and Scientific Communications Senior Specialist on the US Professional Veterinary Affairs Team at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. She spent 13 years at the University of Illinois completing her BS, DVM, and PhD in Nutritional Sciences. During veterinary school and her PhD, she became very interested in nutrition education of veterinary students and the power of nutrition in health and disease. She completed a rotating small animal medicine and surgery internship on the north side of Chicago and then moved to Raleigh, NC to complete her Small Animal Clinical Nutrition residency at North Carolina State University. She currently lives outside Indianapolis with 4 cats, 2 dogs, and her fiancé!

Dr. Lance Roasa, a veterinarian and practicing lawyer, who is the founder of Roasa Law Group joins Dr. Andy Roark. They dive into two key lawsuits shaking up the veterinary world: LMU Lincoln Memorial University suing the AVMA for anti-competitive practices and veterinary interns launching a class action lawsuit against the Match program and some vet schools. Dr. Roasa breaks down both cases, discussing the reasons behind them, the arguments involved, and the potential impact on the profession. They also touch on broader issues like the influence of venture capitalists and the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine. Let's get into this.Office Hours PodcastDr. Know-It-All Card GameDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkGuest Bio:Dr. Roasa is a 2008 graduate of Texas A&M who has practiced in smallanimal, mixed animal and emergency settings and has bought, operated and sold over a dozen veterinary practices. He has completed a law degree from theUniversity of Nebraska, is the past president of the American Veterinary MedicalLaw Association. Dr. Roasa is a consultant for VIN and is a founder of Drip Learning Technologies, a veterinary continuing education provider. He also lectures in 13 veterinary colleges on the legal aspects of employment contracts, medica record keeping, veterinary malpractice and veterinary business as part of the curriculum. He serves as a national co-advisor to the Veterinary BusinessManagement Association and regularly lectures to regional VBMA chapters and to the national association on the topics of growth, business metrics, and technology implementation. Dr. Roasa also owns Santa Rosa Ranch, home to the largest registered Brangus cow herd in the United States.

Dr. Petra Harms, veterinarian and founder of VetMaite, joins Dr. Andy Roark to tackle one of the most overlooked questions in veterinary AI: how do we know these tools actually work? AI scribes, chatbots and diagnostic aids are flooding into veterinary clinics, but who is testing their accuracy, safeguarding client data, or setting ethical standards? Petra is a big fan of AI (she’s not calling for chisels and stone tablets) but argues that without proper quality control, veterinarians and clients could pay the price. In this thought-provoking episode, you’ll hear why “data is the new gold,” what every practice owner should ask before buying an AI tool, and how to embrace technology responsibly without sacrificing patient care or privacy. If you’re excited about AI but also a little uneasy, this is the conversation you didn’t know you needed. Let’s get into this episode!Dr. Petra Harms on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-kos-harms/VetMade: https://www.vetmade.com/aboutDr. Know-It-All Card Game: https://drandyroark.com/product/dr-know-it-all-card-game/Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course: https://drandyroark.com/charming-the-angry-client/Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shop: http:/All Links: http://linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkDr. Harms works at the intersection of emerging artificial intelligence technology and practical small animal veterinary practice. She has spent more than two decades working in veterinary clinics, 15 of those as a veterinarian. She has practiced medicine through seismic shifts in the medical field, from the change from paper to electronic medical records and during the ongoing evolution of EMR's.​She has practiced with fifteen veterinary medical clinics, taken part in three major technology transitions, one major facility transition, and is versed in five EMR systems. She has worked closely with a teams of highly trained emergency clinicians and specialists, and has also worked as solo practitioner in charge of day-to-day clinic operation.​In the past year, Dr Harms has focused her education on learning about Artificial Intelligence and its significance to healthcare systems, obtaining certificates of specialization from Stanford and Harvard with more on the way.

Dr. Caitlyn Getty, DVM, PhD, DACVIM (Nutrition), is back on the Cone of Shame to tackle a classic hot mess express: the IBD dog who now has early kidney disease. In this “How Do You Treat That?” episode, Dr. Andy Roark presents Murph, a finicky Yorkie with a sensitive gut, a history of GI explosions, and renal values on the rise. The kicker? His current food is working, and his owners are terrified to change it.Dr. Getty breaks down how to approach cases with conflicting nutritional needs and shares her checklist for diet selection when no one food seems perfect. They dig into the new Hills Canine Multi-Organ diet, why it might be a game-changer for dogs like Murph, and when it might not be the right fit. You’ll walk away with practical tips for food transitions, client communication, and managing complex patients without causing a GI disaster. If you’ve ever had a fragile pup with overlapping conditions and nervous clients clinging to the current food bag for dear life, this one’s for you.Check out the downloadable team training worksheet and follow along together! Empower your team to educate clients using the notes and discussion questions.This episode is brought to you by Hill's Pet Nutrition!Hill's VetHill's Veterinary AcademyDr. Andy Roark Exam Room Communication Tool Box Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark SwagAll LinksCaitlyn is a Board Certified Veterinary Nutritionist® and Scientific Communications Senior Specialist on the US Professional Veterinary Affairs Team at Hill’s Pet Nutrition. She spent 13 years at the University of Illinois completing her BS, DVM, and PhD in Nutritional Sciences. During veterinary school and her PhD, she became very interested in nutrition education of veterinary students and the power of nutrition in health and disease. She completed a rotating small animal medicine and surgery internship on the north side of Chicago and then moved to Raleigh, NC to complete her Small Animal Clinical Nutrition residency at North Carolina State University. She currently lives outside Indianapolis with 4 cats, 2 dogs, and her fiancé!

Dr. Stacee Santi, veterinarian, tech founder, and author of Stop Acting Like a Girl, joins Dr. Andy Roark for a conversation that challenges the norms women are handed and how those expectations shape careers in veterinary medicine and beyond. From the ER to the boardroom, Stacee has walked the walk, founding Vet2Pet, navigating startup negotiations, and now stepping into authorship and podcasting with her new show Everyday Wonder Women. In this episode, she shares the pivotal moment that inspired her book title, how generational beliefs shaped her journey, and why so many high-performing women still hesitate to speak up or negotiate their worth. This one’s for anyone mentoring women in the profession, raising daughters, or trying to build a more inclusive clinic culture. You’ll walk away with new insight on how to empower quieter voices, rethink staff meetings, and encourage decisive leadership.Stop Acting Like a Girl Book Stacee Santi on LinkedInEvery Day Wonder Women PodcastDr. Know-It-All Card GameDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkDr. Stacee Santi is a 1996 DVM graduate from Colorado State University and the founder of Vet2Pet, a tech platform for veterinary practices that was sold to Vetsource in 2022. With over 20 years in small animal and emergency practice, Stacee offers practical solutions for veterinary teams in tech, workflows, client service, and leadership. She’s also the author of Stop Acting Like a Girl, a book that encourages women to break free from outdated expectations and embrace assertiveness, confidence, and ambition. Stacee has served on multiple industry advisory boards, was past president of the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association, and was named 2021 Educator of the Year by the Western Veterinary Conference. She lives in Durango, Colorado with her husband, 6 horses, 2 dogs, 1 cat, 4 chickens, and dreams of a baby burro.

In this episode of the Cone of Shame Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark is joined by Dr. Emily Tincher, Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide Pet Insurance, to explore how veterinarians can personalize care for individual pets, their families and to the disease. They discuss new research, tools like The Pet HealthZone®, and the power of clinical empathy. According to recent PetSmart Charities research, nearly half of pet families are questioning whether care is worth the cost. This episode dives into practical ways to keep care accessible, affordable, and aligned with clients’ goals and realities. They explore how personalizing care goes beyond cost. It's about matching treatment to what the pet family can realistically do, whether that’s giving medications, handling mobility, or managing emotional stress. This conversation is packed with actionable ideas for any veterinary healthcare team in the exam room!This episode is brought to you by Nationwide Pet Insurance!Order Nationwide materials for your practice!Pet HealthZoneEmily Tincher on LinkedInVeterinary Leadership Institute – Giving veterinary professionals the leadership skillsAll Dog Breeds Guide | Browse Comprehensive Guides by Dog BreedOutpatient gastrointestinal foreign body surgeries performed in a nonspecialized setting have good outcomes for dogs and cats in: Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association - Ahead of print52% of U.S. Pet Owners Have Skipped or Declined Recommended Veterinary Care | PetSmart CharitiesDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark SwagAll LinksDr. Emily M. Tincher is a collaborative leader who uses data-informed approaches to create sustainable systems that meet the needs of pet families, veterinary healthcare teams, and businesses. She is a second-generation veterinarian and a graduate of Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and she has worked in industry roles and in small animal emergency and general practices. As Chief Veterinary Officer at Nationwide, Dr. Tincher manages strategy and operations for pet health programs, develops partnerships within the animal health industry, and directs engagement with veterinary teams.Dr. Tincher is President of the Board of Directors for the Veterinary Leadership Institute and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Veterinary Innovation Council. She co-authored a chapter in Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, "Cost of Care, Access to Care, and Payment Options in Veterinary Practice,” and has become a sought-after speaker, most recently on spectrum of care topics, presenting at major veterinary conferences across North America. 

Dr. Steve Marks is building a vet school from scratch, and he’s not afraid to do things differently. In this episode, Dr. Marks, founding dean of Clemson University's College of Veterinary Medicine, joins Dr. Andy Roark to talk about what it’s really like to start a vet school in 2025. From juggling seven buildings under construction to planning clinical clerkships and raising funds for student housing, this conversation covers it all. Dr. Marks shares his vision for producing day-one ready veterinarians, explains why Clemson chose a semi-distributed model for clinical education, and unpacks the challenges of placing students in real-world practices. They also dive into corporate partnerships, vet student recruitment, and what future vet students should know before applying. Whether you're curious about vet school trends, love a good underdog story, or want to know what veterinary education might look like in 10 years, this episode is for you.Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine at Clemson UniversityDr. Know-It-All Card GameDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkDr. Steven Marks is the founding dean of Harvey S. Peeler Jr. College of Veterinary Medicine at Clemson University, set to welcome its first class in 2026. With curriculum development, faculty hiring, and facilities planning well underway, Dr. Marks is leading efforts to address a critical need for veterinarians in South Carolina and beyond. Passionate about the human-animal bond and veterinary education, he is committed to building a values-driven program that prepares day-one ready clinicians and scientists. As a proud Clemson parent and longtime advocate for veterinary medicine, he’s excited to shape a college that aligns with the University’s mission and serves both people and animals.

Dr. Mary Gardner, DVM, co-founder of Lap of Love, joins Dr. Andy Roark to talk about one of the most emotional parts of veterinary medicine—helping pet owners process end-of-life decisions. Before you brace for a downer, take a breath. This episode is anything but heavy. With laughter, warmth, and a whole lot of heart, Mary brings her signature optimism to a conversation that every vet team will relate to. They dive into the guilt pet owners feel about getting a new pet, the emotional signs that often go unnoticed, and how to support clients in the thick of grief. From navigating spiritual beliefs to choosing the right language in the exam room, this episode is full of insights, compassion, and some seriously good one-liners. You’ll leave with a better understanding of how to guide families through goodbye, how to spot unspoken pain, and why it’s okay to bring some joy into hard moments.Dr. Mary Gardner on InstagramDr. Know-It-All Card GameDr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training CourseDr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shopAll Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoarkThere is nothing better to Dr. Gardner than a dog with a grey muzzle or skinny old cat! Her professional goal is to increase awareness and medical care for the geriatric veterinary patient and to help make the final life stage to be as peaceful as possible, surrounded with dignity and support for all involved.A University of Florida graduate (AND ANDY’S CLASSMATE!), she discovered her niche in end-of-life care and is the co-founder and CIO of Lap of Love which has over 350 veterinarians around the country dedicated to veterinary hospice and euthanasia in the home.Dr. Gardner is co-author of the textbook “The Treatment and Care of the Veterinary Patient”, co-author of a children’s activity book focused on saying goodbye to a dog called “Forever Friend”, and the author of a book dedicated to pet owners “It’s Never Long Enough: A practical guide to caring for your geriatric dog”. Dr. Gardner also won VMX Small Animal Speaker of the year in 2020!"