The Uncharted Veterinary Podcast

Veterinary visits are dropping, the schedule has open slots, and yet your team still feels completely swamped. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Maria Pirita break down what to do when declining advance bookings signal long-term risk, but your team does not see a problem because walk-ins keep the day busy. They explore why this disconnect happens, how leaders can avoid panic without becoming passive, and the practical steps practice managers and owners can take to stabilize the schedule, rebuild team buy-in, and protect patient care before the problem grows. Let's get into this episode!The Uncharted Practice Owner Summit at NAVC SkillShop is a two-day, highly interactive leadership experience designed exclusively for veterinary practice owners who want to move from constant problem-solving to proactive, strategic ownership. Through various workshops, you will focus on the real challenges you face as an owner, from leading people and improving efficiency to building systems that support long-term success. This immersive event includes 16 RACE-approved CE hours, foundational self-paced learning, and in-person collaboration with peers who understand the realities of practice ownership. Register now to invest in clarity, confidence, and the future of your veterinary practice. Uncharted Practice Owner Summit: https://navc.com/skillshop/uncharted-practice-owner-summit/Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

Your team is showing up, doing the job, and following the rules, but the energy is gone, the spark is missing, and it feels like everyone is just clocking in and clocking out. In this episode, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss unpack a mailbag question from a practice manager facing quiet quitting in their veterinary team, not through laziness or rule-breaking, but through disengagement that is harder to name and even harder to fix. They explore why quiet quitting is often a signal, not a failure, how compassion and accountability can exist at the same time, and why leaders cannot pep-talk or punish their way back to engagement. This conversation dives into purpose, connection, and what has quietly shifted in veterinary medicine, especially as practices grow or change ownership, and offers practical ways leaders can rebuild trust, meaning, and momentum without pushing people further away.Veterinary leadership is heavier than it used to be, expectations are higher, teams are more complex, and the old playbooks are not working anymore. That is exactly why Uncharted 2026 at VMX exists. This is not another conference about doing more with less or pushing harder through burnout. It is a space designed for real conversations, practical leadership tools, and honest connection with people who actually understand what it means to lead in veterinary medicine right now. If you are craving clarity, energy, and strategies you can take straight back to your clinic, the 2026 Uncharted Veterinary Conference is where it starts.If you want to dive deep into communications DiSC Decoded Cohort is now open for registration and the first session starts February 11th, 2026. This is a guided, hands-on experience that helps veterinary leaders understand behavior, communication, and motivation, not just in theory, but in the real moments that matter most. From managing conflict and disengagement to coaching without awkwardness, DiSC Decoded gives you the language and tools to lead people with confidence instead of frustration.If you are ready to stop guessing, stop carrying everything alone, and start leading with intention, this is your invitation.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

Feeling like practice ownership might have passed you by, even after years of hard work, paid-down debt, and careful planning? In this episode, Dr. Andy Roark sits down with Roy Jain, COO and Co-Founder of Blue River PetCare, to tackle one of the most common and painful questions associate veterinarians face today: is practice ownership still possible, or is the system stacked against you? Together, they unpack a real mailbag letter from a veterinarian ten years into their career who feels stuck between buying, starting, or staying put. Roy shares a refreshingly realistic framework for ownership, breaking down mindset traps, real estate constraints, financial guardrails, and step-by-step growth strategies that make ownership feel achievable again. Whether you dream of owning your own clinic, expanding gradually, or simply want clarity on your long-term career path, this episode delivers honest guidance, practical benchmarks, and hope grounded in experience. This episode is brought to you ad-free by Blue River PetCare!To reach out to Roy for more information, just click on his bio here: https://blueriverpetcare.com/our-team/Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

When your team won’t move unless someone tells them exactly what to do, leadership starts to feel exhausting fast. We’re wrapping up the year by revisiting the top UVP episode of 2025, a standout conversation that resonated with practice managers, medical directors, and leaders who are tired of babysitting capable adults and ready to build a culture where initiative is the norm. In this Hall of Fame episode, Stephanie Goss and Dr. Andy Roark break down why initiative stalls in veterinary teams, how leaders often unintentionally reinforce it, and what actually works to build confidence, ownership, and forward momentum without micromanaging. If you’ve ever wondered whether initiative can truly be trained, this episode delivers the clarity, mindset shifts, and practical steps that earned it a place in the UVP Hall of Fame.Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026If your clinic is growing faster than your systems can keep up, you’re not alone. The truth is, most veterinary leaders are fighting the same battle of trying to coach teams, improve communication, and reduce chaos while still keeping up with patient care. That’s exactly what Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 is built to solve.Join us Friday, January 16 in Orlando, the day before VMX kicks off, for a one-day immersive experience that will transform the way you lead. Walk away with proven tools, new friends, and the kind of clarity that will change how you lead forever. Tickets are limited and this event always sells out. Grab your spot now at unchartedvet.com.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

Veterinary leadership can feel heavy during the holidays. Between emotional cases, personal transitions, and the pressure to finish the year strong, many leaders find themselves exhausted, reflective, and unsure how to carry both the joy and the weight of the season. This episode brings together honest holiday leadership reflections from Dr. Andy Roark, Tyler Grogan, CVT and Maria Pirita, CVPM offering guidance for anyone who feels stretched thin, unsure of their progress, or overwhelmed by the emotional complexity of veterinary life. If you are seeking emotional resilience, stronger team leadership, or a renewed sense of meaning in your work, this episode is the gift under the tree you did not know you needed!If your clinic feels like it is constantly reacting instead of leading with intention, you are not alone. Many veterinary leaders struggle to balance patient care, team coaching, and communication challenges while feeling unsure how to shift their culture. Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 was created to help you break that cycle and step into leadership with clarity and confidence.Join us Friday, January 16 in Orlando for a focused one day experience that begins with Ron Sosa and Tyler Grogan's Leadership Audit. You will also participate in Andy Roark’s Coaching and Accountability workshop and Maria Pirita’s Team Communication session. This is a rare chance to get hands on tools that strengthen your leadership immediately. Learn more and save your spot at unchartedvet.com.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

When a front desk team member escalates client tension instead of calming it, the entire clinic feels the ripple effect. In this episode, we tackle a tough and common challenge in veterinary medicine: a highly reliable receptionist who becomes defensive and reactive when clients become upset. We break down why this happens, how fear and past experiences amplify emotional responses, and what leaders can do to coach confidence, deescalation skills, and calm communication in the moment. If your team struggles with handling angry clients or turning venting into problem solving, this episode offers practical tools, real language you can use, and a roadmap to transform the front desk into a stronger, more resilient support system.Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026If your clinic is growing faster than your systems can keep up, you’re not alone. The truth is, most veterinary leaders are fighting the same battle of trying to coach teams, improve communication, and reduce chaos while still keeping up with patient care. That’s exactly what Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 is built to solve.Join us Friday, January 16 in Orlando, the day before VMX kicks off, for a one-day immersive experience that will transform the way you lead. You’ll start with a career audit to uncover your strengths and blind spots as a leader, then dive into Andy Roark’s hands-on Coaching and Accountability workshop to learn how to grow your people and actually get follow-through. You’ll also join Maria Pirita’s dynamic Team Communication session to tackle the real conversations holding your clinic back.Walk away with proven tools, new friends, and the kind of clarity that will change how you lead forever. Tickets are limited and this event always sells out. Grab your spot now at unchartedvet.com.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbagMaria Pirita is a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager, Elite Fear Free Certified Veterinary Professional and former hospital administrator. In her work with Uncharted Veterinary Conference and beyond, Maria has presented to veterinarians and teams across the US and Canada on topics including veterinary marketing, feedback, team building, and positive work culture. With over 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine and over 20 years in leadership, she's passionate helping leaders develop their skills. Maria loves any activity that involves creativity or learning something new. This leads to an abundance of hobbies including crafting, traveling, cooking and aviation.Dr. Andy Roark is a practicing veterinarian, international speaker, author, and media personality. He is the founder of the Uncharted Veterinary Conference and DrAndyRoark.com. He has been an award-winning columnist for DVM360 and the magazine Today’s Veterinary Business. His social media, website, podcast and YouTube show reach millions of people every month.Dr. Roark has received the NAVC Practice Management Speaker of the Year Award three times, the WVC Practice Management Educator of the Year Award, the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Veterinarian of the Year Award from the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians. His greatest achievement however involves marrying a bad-ass scientist and raising 2 kind and wonderful daughters.

A longtime veterinary technician feels trapped under an inexperienced new manager, and the entire team is slipping into frustration and burnout as leadership crumbles around them. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dig into the real challenges of working under a difficult boss in veterinary medicine. They explore why imperfect leaders are inevitable, how emotional overload can intensify conflict, and what practical steps veterinary professionals can take when their manager is unprepared or unwilling to lead. From root cause analysis and setting boundaries to protecting your purpose and choosing whether to stay, shift, or leave, this conversation brings clarity to one of the most common and painful issues in practice life. If you or your team are struggling with leadership strain or workplace tension, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate roadmap forward. Let’s get into this episode!Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026If your clinic is growing faster than your systems can keep up, you’re not alone. The truth is, most veterinary leaders are fighting the same battle of trying to coach teams, improve communication, and reduce chaos while still keeping up with patient care. That’s exactly what Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 is built to solve.Join us Friday, January 16 in Orlando, the day before VMX kicks off, for a one-day immersive experience that will transform the way you lead. You’ll start with a career audit to uncover your strengths and blind spots as a leader, then dive into Andy Roark’s hands-on Coaching and Accountability workshop to learn how to grow your people and actually get follow-through. You’ll also join Maria Pirita’s dynamic Team Communication session to tackle the real conversations holding your clinic back.Walk away with proven tools, new friends, and the kind of clarity that will change how you lead forever. Tickets are limited and this event always sells out. Grab your spot now at unchartedvet.com.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

When your veterinary clinic starts growing faster than your systems can handle, it can feel like you’re constantly putting out fires instead of leading with confidence. In this episode of The Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dive into the realities of veterinary clinic growth, sharing how to move from survival mode to sustainable leadership. They explain why rapid expansion often creates burnout, miscommunication, and reactive management, and how to rebuild structure, culture, and accountability that support your team as it scales. Whether you’re a practice owner opening a second location or a manager struggling to keep up with new demands, this episode gives you the clarity and tools to grow your hospital without losing your mind. Let's get into this episode!Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026If your clinic is growing faster than your systems can keep up, you’re not alone. The truth is, most veterinary leaders are fighting the same battle of trying to coach teams, improve communication, and reduce chaos while still keeping up with patient care. That’s exactly what Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 is built to solve.Join us Friday, January 16 in Orlando, the day before VMX kicks off, for a one-day immersive experience that will transform the way you lead. You’ll start with a career audit to uncover your strengths and blind spots as a leader, then dive into Andy Roark’s hands-on Coaching and Accountability workshop to learn how to grow your people and actually get follow-through. You’ll also join Maria Pirita’s dynamic Team Communication session to tackle the real conversations holding your clinic back.Walk away with proven tools, new friends, and the kind of clarity that will change how you lead forever. Tickets are limited and this event always sells out. Grab your spot now at unchartedvet.com.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

Veterinary professionals often pour time, money, and energy into certifications that don’t always deliver the results they expect. In this episode, Dr. Andy Roark and Maria Pirita, CVPM break down how to decide if becoming a certified veterinary assistant, technician, or manager is truly worth it. They explore how to weigh the financial, emotional, and career impact of credentialing and share how to talk with your leaders before committing to any program. You’ll walk away with a realistic framework for evaluating your return on investment, setting clear goals, and understanding what professional growth really looks like in today’s veterinary field. Let's get into this episode!Ready to stop chasing accountability and start building it?If you’ve ever felt like you’re repeating yourself, trying to get your team to follow through, or carrying the whole clinic on your shoulders, Andy Roark’s workshop at Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 is for you. Join us on January 16 in Orlando for a one-day, high-impact experience where you’ll learn how to build a culture of accountability that actually works.This isn’t a series of lectures. You’ll also take part in a hands-on leadership audit to uncover what’s holding your team back, then dive into interactive coaching sessions that show you how to empower your staff to make decisions, follow through, and communicate clearly. Come learn with Andy, connect with people who are building better teams, and walk away with tools you can use the moment you get back to the clinic.Seats are limited. Claim your spot at www.unchartedvet.com and start leading with confidence today.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

What happens when friendships in your veterinary clinic start to blur the line between connection and cliques? In this episode of The Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dig into one of the most uncomfortable culture challenges in practice: favoritism. It often begins innocently, with a doctor and technician who click, who work smoothly together, and who spend time outside of work. Over time, that “we just work well together” energy can quietly turn into exclusion, frustration, and an uneven playing field that leaves the rest of the team feeling left out.Andy and Stephanie explore how favoritism shows up, why it erodes trust and collaboration, and what leaders can do when personal bonds begin to affect professional dynamics. They share practical strategies to coach your team, set boundaries without being the “fun police,” and rebuild fairness and inclusivity across your clinic. Whether you are a practice manager, medical director, or lead technician, this episode offers a clear path to strengthen your culture and support a healthier team. Let's get into this episode!You’ve spent another year juggling chaos, coaching your team between appointments, and wondering when leadership will finally feel easier. The truth is, you don’t need another lecture or cookie-cutter CE session. You need a space to recharge your leadership, sharpen your strategy, and connect with people who truly understand what you face every day.Join us for the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 on January 16 in Orlando, where we’ll tackle the real problems that keep veterinary professionals stuck. Learn how to rebuild trust after burnout, navigate tough conversations with confidence, and design systems that actually work for your practice.This is not a sit-and-listen kind of CE. It’s a one-day, fully interactive event filled with workshops, honest discussions, and coaching sessions led by experts like Dr. Andy Roark, Ron Sosa, CVPM, Maria Pirita, CVPM and Tyler Grogan, CVT. You’ll leave with practical tools, a renewed sense of clarity, and a network of veterinary leaders who will help you stay accountable long after the day ends,Seats are limited and open only to the Uncharted community. Stop repeating the same year and start creating the one you’ve been working toward. Register now: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/about-uncharted-veterinary-conference-2026Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

Your team comes back from CE full of ideas, energy, and handouts. Two weeks later, it is as if none of it ever happened. Sound familiar? In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Maria Pirita tackle one of the most frustrating challenges in veterinary leadership: how to actually implement what your team learns at continuing education events. CE should spark growth, not fizzle into forgotten notes and half-finished protocols. Andy and Maria unpack why good intentions fall apart once everyone returns to the clinic and share how to set your team up for real success before, during, and after any conference. They dive into the leadership mindset that drives continuing education implementation and the systems that keep learning alive long after the plane ride home.Want to turn CE ideas into real results? Download our free CE Implementation Facilitation Guide and help your team bring their learning back to life.Download: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/k4t0d5Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026Unlock 2026 like never before! If you don’t claim your spot at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 on January 16 in Orlando, you’ll watch others pull ahead while you stay stuck where you are. This is not another passive CE day. It’s a one-day, high-intensity experience designed for veterinary professionals ready to lift their anchor and steer into the boldest phase of their career. Expect interactive leadership audits, hands-on workshops with top-tier experts like Andy Roark, and game-changing connections with peers who refuse to settle for status quo. Seats are reserved exclusively for our community and they’re ticking away. Show up or get left behind. Register here: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/about-uncharted-veterinary-conference-2026Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Maria to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

Veterinary client communication is at a crossroads. Teams everywhere are feeling the strain of constant calls, texts, and emails from clients who expect immediate answers. The pace of communication has accelerated faster than many veterinary practices can keep up with, creating a daily challenge: how do we stay personal and present while meeting growing digital demands?That question is at the center of a conversation between Dr. Andy Roark and Shawna Castillo on the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, sponsored by Otto.Shawna is the Director of Care Membership Programs at Otto and co-owner of Cement Creek Veterinary Hospital in Colorado. With more than 20 years of experience in the veterinary and animal health space, she is a leader in people, process, and technology integration. Her background spans team leadership, retention strategy, client education, and process improvement.At Otto, Shawna helps veterinary hospitals implement tools that improve efficiency and strengthen client relationships through intentional automation. She is passionate about finding new ways to use technology to deepen the bond among pets, their people, and their veterinary teams.This episode is brought to you ad-free by Otto!Scribe smarter. Spend Less. When your team can focus on clients instead of keyboards, everything runs smoother: communication, continuity, compliance. Try Otto AI Scribe free for 21 days with no credit card required.Explore the latest insights in client behavior and new client communications benchmarks from the 2025 Otto Client Engagement Report.Ready to elevate operational efficiency and deliver a better experience for every pet owner who walks through the door? Book a demo with Otto to see the platform in action. Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

What do you do when the veterinary feedback you’re getting feels personal, unfair, or downright mean? In this episode, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss unpack a real letter from a mother in veterinary medicine whose daughter, a new CSR, is struggling with harsh feedback and unkind coworkers in her first clinic job. From the painful moment she was told, “I don’t like your face,” to an unsettling “I don’t care” during an emergency, Andy and Stephanie explore how to tell the difference between helpful feedback and toxic communication. They dive into how leaders can model emotional intelligence, why not all feedback deserves equal weight, and how to coach young professionals to grow stronger without losing their confidence. If you’ve ever questioned how to handle criticism, balance empathy with accountability, or create a healthier feedback culture in your veterinary team, this conversation is for you. Let’s get into this episode!Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026Unlock 2026 like never before! If you don’t claim your spot at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 on January 16 in Orlando, you’ll watch others pull ahead while you stay stuck where you are. This is not another passive CE day. It’s a one-day, high-intensity experience designed for veterinary professionals ready to lift their anchor and steer into the boldest phase of their career. Expect interactive leadership audits, hands-on workshops with top-tier experts like Andy Roark, and game-changing connections with peers who refuse to settle for status quo. Seats are reserved exclusively for our community and they’re ticking away. Show up or get left behind. Register here: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/about-uncharted-veterinary-conference-2026Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

What happens when you mix Halloween, dice, and a veterinary leadership team? You get one of the most entertaining and insightful episodes of The Uncharted Veterinary Podcast yet. In this special episode, host Dr. Andy Roark and the Uncharted team dive into veterinary gamified learning through an original role-playing game called Uncharted Adventures. The result? Laughter, chaos, and a fresh look at how games can teach powerful lessons in communication, accountability, and teamwork inside a veterinary practice.Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 (Live at VMX)Get ready to chart your course for growth at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026, live at VMX in Orlando on January 16. This one-day, high-energy event brings together veterinary professionals who are ready to move from inspiration to implementation. Whether you’re refining your leadership skills, looking for clarity on your next professional step, or craving a community that challenges and uplifts you, Uncharted at VMX is your chance to connect, learn, and level up. Every detail of this event is designed for meaningful interaction, deep discussion, and practical takeaways you can put to work immediately. Seats are intentionally limited to keep the experience focused and impactful. Reserve yours now and join a movement that believes in the bright future of vetmed. Register Today: https://learn.unchartedvet.comUpcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

If your veterinary team is exhausted, overbooked, and asking why you are still taking on new clients, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Dr. Andy Roark and Maria Pirita unpack one of the most common leadership challenges in a busy veterinary practice: explaining the need for new clients without overwhelming your team. They explore what’s really behind staff resistance, how to separate perception from reality, and how to use data, empathy, and collaboration to strengthen trust. You will learn practical strategies to manage client growth, improve team communication, and maintain stability while supporting your people. Let’s get into this episode!2025 Get Sh*t Done: Financial Edition (Monica Dixon Perry)Feeling overwhelmed by inventory chaos? Join us at the 2025 Get Sh*t Done: Financial Edition, where you’ll learn how to use inventory management software strategically, negotiate better supplier agreements, and forecast future needs with confidence. Take the guesswork out of your inventory and register now for this hands-on, high-impact event:https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/speaker-monica-dixon-perryUncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 (Live at VMX)Get ready to chart your course for growth at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026, live at VMX in Orlando on January 16. This one-day, high-energy event brings together veterinary professionals who are ready to move from inspiration to implementation. Whether you’re refining your leadership skills, looking for clarity on your next professional step, or craving a community that challenges and uplifts you, Uncharted at VMX is your chance to connect, learn, and level up. Every detail of this event is designed for meaningful interaction, deep discussion, and practical takeaways you can put to work immediately. Seats are intentionally limited to keep the experience focused and impactful. Reserve yours now and join a movement that believes in the bright future of vetmed. Register Today: https://learn.unchartedvet.comUpcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbagDr. Andy Roark is a practicing veterinarian, international speaker, author, and media personality. He is the founder of the Uncharted Veterinary Conference and DrAndyRoark.com. He has been an award-winning columnist for DVM360 and the magazine Today’s Veterinary Business. His social media, website, podcast and YouTube show reach millions of people every month.Dr. Roark has received the NAVC Practice Management Speaker of the Year Award three times, the WVC Practice Management Educator of the Year Award, the Outstanding Young Alumni Award from the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Veterinarian of the Year Award from the South Carolina Association of Veterinarians. His greatest achievement however involves marrying a bad-ass scientist and raising 2 kind and wonderful daughters.Maria Pirita is a Certified Veterinary Practice Manager, Elite Fear Free Certified Veterinary Professional and former hospital administrator. In her work with Uncharted Veterinary Conference and beyond, Maria has presented to veterinarians and teams across the US and Canada on topics including veterinary marketing, feedback, team building, and positive work culture. With over 10 years of experience in veterinary medicine and over 20 years in leadership, she's passionate helping leaders develop their skills. Maria loves any activity that involves creativity or learning something new. This leads to an abundance of hobbies including crafting, traveling, cooking and aviation.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by negativity in Facebook groups or struggled with whether you should even engage on veterinary social media, this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast is for you. Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dig into the stress that comes from online reputation battles, why comment section arguments rarely work in your favor, and how to set healthy social media boundaries while still using platforms for client connection, practice marketing, and online reputation management. Whether you’re a veterinary practice manager, owner, or associate veterinarian, you’ll walk away with clarity on when to step back, when to lean in, and how to protect your energy while still reaping the benefits of social media for your clinic. Let's get into this episode!Uncharted Team Leads Summit 2025Mark your calendar for October 15, 2025 for the Uncharted Team Leads Summit. This interactive one-day event is designed for veterinary supervisors and team leads who want to strengthen communication, build confidence, and guide their teams with purpose. You will explore how to manage venting constructively, apply AI tools effectively, and shape your role so it serves you rather than drains you. With RACE approved CE and small-group workshops, this summit delivers growth and practical skills you can put to work immediately. Seats are limited, so reserve yours today. Register here: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/products/live_events/team-leads-summit-2025Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026 (VMX)Join us in Orlando on January 16, 2026 for the Uncharted Veterinary Conference, live at VMX. This curated one-day gathering gives veterinary leaders the chance to move from ideas to real impact, gain clarity about their next steps, and connect with a community invested in the future of vetmed. Attendance is intentionally capped to preserve an immersive, high-value environment. Spots are limited, so register now to secure your place. Register here: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/about-uncharted-veterinary-conference-2026Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbag

When your top-producing veterinarian starts squeezing in extra appointments, turning in higher invoices, and choosing more expensive medications, it can spark concerns about whether you have a “money hungry vet” on your team. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and veterinary management consultant Monica Dixon Perry unpack the challenges of production-based compensation, continuity of care, and staff perception. They share strategies practice owners and managers can use to protect trust, support their doctors, and keep teams aligned without sacrificing client confidence or financial stability.Monica brings nearly four decades of veterinary experience to the conversation, with a career spanning hospital leadership, consulting, and corporate partnership roles. Now a Senior Manager in BerryDunn’s Outsourced Accounting Practice Group, she guides practices in optimizing operations, improving financial health, and strengthening community impact. Monica is a trusted voice on the global veterinary speaking circuit, known for blending empathy and strategy to help teams thrive. She’ll also be speaking at the Uncharted Get Sh*t Done 2025: Financial Edition this October 29th, where she’ll dive even deeper into practical tools for veterinary leaders. Let's get into this episode!Does inventory have your head spinning? At the 2025 Get Sh*t Done: Financial Edition, Monica Dixon Perry will lead the general session, Effective Veterinary Financial Management & Analysis, where she will equip you with practical strategies to take control of reorder points, expiration dates, and rising costs. Drawing on nearly four decades of veterinary leadership and her role as Senior Manager in BerryDunn’s Outsourced Accounting Practice Group, Monica will show you how to integrate inventory management software, negotiate supplier agreements, conduct audits, and forecast demand with confidence. Register today to gain the tools you need to streamline your practice operations and strengthen your financial foundation: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/speaker-monica-dixon-perrySet sail with us at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026, live at VMX on January 16 in Orlando. This exclusive one-day event is designed to help veterinary leaders turn ideas into action, build confidence in their next steps, and connect with a powerful community that believes in the future of vetmed. Spots are limited to keep the experience intentional and high-impact, so don’t wait, register today.Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbagBio:As a Senior Manager in BerryDunn’s Outsourced Accounting Practice Group, Monica brings a wealth of knowledge in guiding veterinary practices to enhance their operations, optimize processes, and strengthen their community impact. With nearly four decades in the veterinary field, Monica offers a unique perspective, balancing empathy and insight to address the needs of her clients. She collaborates closely with stakeholders to develop tailored strategies that leverage available resources while staying at the forefront of industry trends and best practices. Monica’s career journey has spanned diverse roles in veterinary leadership, from overseeing a multi-doctor hospital to serving as Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Mission Veterinary Partners. Monica is a frequent speaker on the global veterinary speaking circuit and is available for speaking engagements. 

When wealthy pet owners happily spend on designer collars and gourmet treats but refuse essential veterinary care, the frustration for veterinary teams runs deep. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss unpack why affluent clients decline services, how this impacts team morale, and what strategies can help bridge the gap. From shifting your mindset to mastering client communication, they share practical ways to reduce judgment, build trust, and protect your clinic culture. Let's get into this episode!Set sail with us at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026, live at VMX on January 16 in Orlando. This exclusive one-day event is designed to help veterinary leaders turn ideas into action, build confidence in their next steps, and connect with a powerful community that believes in the future of vetmed. Spots are limited to keep the experience intentional and high-impact, so don’t wait, register today.Step into leadership with the support and skills you need at the Uncharted Team Leads Summit. This one-day, interactive event is designed for veterinary supervisors and leads who want to strengthen communication, boost confidence, and guide their teams with purpose. You’ll learn how to handle team venting in healthy ways, explore practical AI tools, and shape your role so it works for you instead of the other way around. With small-group workshops, RACE-approved CE, and a community that understands the realities of leadership in vetmed, this summit is the perfect place to grow. Reserve your spot today: Team Leads Summit 2025Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbagStephanie is a former practice manager who lives on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. With over 20 years of experience both on the floor and in the office, Stephanie is passionate about staff education, team culture, management and training. Stephanie loves to geek out about technology, especially Practice Management Software. She has experience as a practice manager in both private and corporate practices, ranging in size from one to seven doctors. She has experience as a consultant and trainer with AVImark software, paperlite/paperless transitions, practice management and staff training.

Ever had a case where the client was all in on helping their pet feel better, but regular in-clinic treatments just weren’t practical? Maybe it was a large dog with arthritis whose owner struggled to get them in the car. Or a client who cringes at the thought of daily medications. Dr. Andy Roark sits down with the brilliant Dr. Deb Torraca, veterinarian, rehab expert, and founder of Wizards of Paws Rehabilitation for Animals, to explore how at-home laser therapy is changing the way we manage pain, inflammation, and mobility issues in pets. This episode blends clinical insights with business innovation, making it a must-listen for veterinary professionals seeking to improve patient outcomes while also empowering clients at home. From managing osteoarthritis in French Bulldogs to implementing fleet-based lending models for rehab tools, this conversation is packed with actionable gems.This episode is brought to you ad-free by Multi Radiance!https://vet.multiradiance.com/vetPractitioner Experience: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/kabvurst27bnh8ij105ct/MyRxLaser_PractitionerExperience_wMobile.mp4?rlkey=o1zx33mvhoh0fkh09fxkee53p&dl=0Pet Owner Experience: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/1o5hj1cuxe3cz8mzooooy/MyRxLaser_PetOwnerExperience.mp4?rlkey=ejvb2sncs9po66usi6sdbcrlm&dl=0MyRxLaser Resources: https://info.multiradiance.com/vet/myrxlaser/resourceMRM’s product page dedicated to MyRxLaser Platform: https://vet.multiradiance.com/vet/products/my-rx-laserDebbie Torraca is a highly respected professional in the field of canine physical rehabilitation and conditioning, boasting over twenty-five years of experience. She is the founder and director of Wizard of Paws Physical Rehabilitation for Animals, where she provides specialized care to her patients. \n \n In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Torraca is an esteemed educator, teaching across the United States and contributing her expertise as a founding member of the Certified Companion Animal Therapy and Certified Canine Manual Therapy programs at North Carolina State University. \n \n Her commitment to advancing the field is evident through her active involvement in research focused on canine performance issues. Notably, she has explored the use of photobiomodulation therapy to enhance athletic performance and address conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). Dr. Torraca’s dedication to both practice and education continues to make a significant impact on the health and performance of canine athletes.

When a new graduate veterinarian joins your team, they bring fresh energy, curiosity, and hope for the future. But what happens when an experienced associate begins to undermine that confidence? Veterinary workplace bullying isn’t always loud or obvious, yet its impact can be devastating. Toxic behavior drives away bright new grads, damages team morale, and creates long-term retention challenges for practice leaders. In this episode of the Uncharted Veterinary Podcast, Dr. Andy Roark and Stephanie Goss dig into a tough mailbag question: “Help! My associate vet is bullying the new grads.” They unpack how leaders can recognize patterns of toxic workplace behavior, the importance of documenting incidents, and strategies for protecting new graduate veterinarians while addressing associate veterinarian conflict head-on.Set sail with us at the Uncharted Veterinary Conference 2026, live at VMX on January 16 in Orlando. This exclusive one-day event is designed to help veterinary leaders turn ideas into action, build confidence in their next steps, and connect with a powerful community that believes in the future of vetmed. Spots are limited to keep the experience intentional and high-impact, so don’t wait, register today.Step into leadership with the support and skills you need at the Uncharted Team Leads Summit. This one-day, interactive event is designed for veterinary supervisors and leads who want to strengthen communication, boost confidence, and guide their teams with purpose. You’ll learn how to handle team venting in healthy ways, explore practical AI tools, and shape your role so it works for you instead of the other way around. With small-group workshops, RACE-approved CE, and a community that understands the realities of leadership in vetmed, this summit is the perfect place to grow. Reserve your spot today: Team Leads Summit 2025Upcoming events: https://learn.unchartedvet.com/pages/eventsAll Links: https://linktr.ee/UnchartedVetDo you have something that you would love Andy and Stephanie to discuss on the podcast? If so, send us a message through the mailbag! Submit it here: unchartedvet.com/mailbagStephanie is a former practice manager who lives on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State. With over 20 years of experience both on the floor and in the office, Stephanie is passionate about staff education, team culture, management and training. Stephanie loves to geek out about technology, especially Practice Management Software. She has experience as a practice manager in both private and corporate practices, ranging in size from one to seven doctors. She has experience as a consultant and trainer with AVImark software, paperlite/paperless transitions, practice management and staff training.