Extraordinary Vets

In this special "Dean’s Edition" of Extraordinary Vets, host Dr. Donna Harris sits down with three deans who prove there is no single "right" way to reach the top of academia. Inside the Episode:Building from the Ground Up: Dr. Heidi Banse (Arkansas State University) discusses the challenge of launching a brand-new vet school and explains the "community center model" of clinical education and the importance of the Spectrum of Care initiative.The Global Perspective: Dr. Brendan Lee (St. Matthew’s University) explains his unique role as Executive Dean and offers advice on the "terminal degree" and why saying "yes" to uncomfortable opportunities is key to career growth. From "Mickey Mouse" to UC Davis: Dr. Mark Stetter reveals how 15 years at Walt Disney World provided the leadership, budget, and storytelling skills necessary to lead the world's top-ranked veterinary college.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Dr. Donna Harris interviews Dr. Joe Gaydos, a marine mammal veterinarian and science director at the SeaDoc Society. They discuss Joe's unique career path, his experiences in wildlife medicine, and the importance of ocean health and conservation. Joe shares insights from his time in Zimbabwe, his transition to marine mammals, and his efforts in educating the public through children's literature and media outreach. The conversation highlights the challenges and opportunities in veterinary medicine, particularly in wildlife conservation, and offers advice for aspiring veterinarians.Keep up with the SeaDoc Society on their socials:https://www.seadocsociety.org/facebook.com/seadocsociety/instagram.com/seadocsociety/

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Dr. Donna Harris welcomes Dr. Justin Schlanser, Colonel in the U.S. Army, Chief of the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps, and Commander of Public Health Command East. Joining the conversation are Second Lieutenant Shelby Friend and Second Lieutenant Selena Gomez, veterinary students and recipients of the Army’s Health Professions Scholarship Program.Together, they discuss Dr. Schlanser’s journey into veterinary medicine, the roles and responsibilities of the Army Veterinary Corps, and the unique career pathways available to veterinarians in military service. The episode also explores leadership development, public health and food safety, emerging and zoonotic diseases, and the growing impact of climate change on veterinary medicine offering valuable insight for students and professionals alike who are curious about service, science, and the future of the profession.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Dr. Donna Harris interviews Dr. Daphne Mobley, a veterinarian with a diverse career path that includes lab animal medicine, corporate roles, and entrepreneurship. Dr. Mobley shares her journey from a childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian to her experiences in the corporate world and her eventual leap into entrepreneurship. She discusses her book, 'The Pet Effect: Healing and Learning Life Lessons from the Pets We Love ,' which highlights the positive impact pets have on people's lives.To learn more about Dr. Mobley and the work she goes you can visit her site: https://www.docdaphne.com/

Discover what it really takes to become a successful dairy veterinarian and how veterinarians transition into the animal health industry with Dr. Matt Boyle,Director, Dairy Technical Services at Zoetis Inc. In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, we explore the day-to-day work of a technical services veterinarian, the future of dairy medicine, and the skills today’s veterinarians need to thrive in a rapidly changing livestock industry.Dr. Boyle shares his journey from dairy practice to a leadership role at Zoetis, offering practical career advice for veterinary students, new grads, and any veterinarian interested in food animal medicine or alternative career paths. We also dive into public health topics like milk safety, avian influenza in cattle, and the role of veterinarians in protecting the food supply.If you want to better understand the dairy industry, explore new veterinary career options, or learn how animal health companies support veterinarians and producers, this episode delivers high-value insight from a trusted expert.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Dr. Donna Harris sits down with Dr. Bob Sager whose career spans more than 45 years in beef cattle medicine. From running rural mixed practices to leading veterinary health and biosecurity for over 600,000 head of cattle in Russia, Dr. Sager’s journey is anything but ordinary.He shares stories of innovation in cattle health, the surprising “gummy bear trade” that saved a herd, his late-life PhD pursuit, and his passion for mentoring the next generation of veterinarians. This conversation is a testament to lifelong learning, global adventure, and the heart of a true cattleman.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Dr. Donna Harris interviews Dr. Steve Osofsky, a prominent figure in wildlife conservation and the One Health movement. Dr. Osofsky shares his journey from being a young boy fascinated by wildlife to becoming a leading wildlife veterinarian and conservationist. He discusses his experiences in Botswana, the establishment of the Dept. of Wildlife & National Parks Wildlife Veterinary Unit, and the importance of integrating environmental stewardship and public health through the One Health and Planetary Health concepts. The conversation also explores a range of roles for veterinarians in conservation, and the critical need for good governance in order to achieve sustainable outcomes. Dr. Osofsky emphasizes the importance of adaptability and creativity in pursuing  a career in conservation, as well as the need to invest in understanding local contexts when it comes to addressing health and environmental challenges.For more information on some of the things discussed, please see cornell-ahead.org and wildlife.cornell.edu.Essential Reading List:Not the End of the World by Hannah Ritchie:

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Dr. Donna Harris interviews Dr. Michael Bailey, the president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Dr. Bailey shares his journey into veterinary medicine, his experiences overcoming dyslexia, and his diverse career path that includes teaching, private practice, and involvement in organized veterinary medicine. He discusses the importance of diversity in the veterinary field, the role of artificial intelligence in veterinary radiology, and his vision for the future of veterinary medicine. Dr. Bailey emphasizes the need for veterinarians to be actively involved in their professional organizations and the importance of empathy in veterinary care.

This episode of Extraordinary Vets features Dr. Ashley Womersley and Dr. Brad Boike, two Michigan-based veterinarians. Donna dives into the world of VETR Health, a mobile veterinary service with a unique membership-based pricing model. Learn how this innovative startup is making pet care more affordable and accessible while improving the quality of life for both pet parents and veterinarians. The doctors share their personal career journeys, including how they made the leap from traditional practice to a startup venture.

In this episode of "Extraordinary Vets," host Dr. Donna Harris interviews Dr. Stacey Pritt, DVM, MS, MBA, CPIA, CHRC, and DACAW, who is the Associate Vice Chancellor and Chief Research Compliance Officer at the Texas A&M University System. They discuss the unique role of research compliance in veterinary medicine, the intersection of animal and human research, and the importance of animal welfare. Dr. Pritt shares insights into her daily responsibilities, the challenges and opportunities in veterinary research, and the future of veterinary medicine, including the impact of AI and funding sources for research. The conversation also highlights the American College of Animal Welfare and offers advice for aspiring veterinarians.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Donna Harris interviews Dr. Cord Brundage, an assistant professor of biology and veterinary advisor to the National American Pre-Veterinary Medical Association. They discuss Dr. Brundage's unique journey through veterinary medicine, including his experiences in Alaska, Colorado, and California, as well as his transition to Wisconsin. The conversation covers his career aspirations, challenges in veterinary practice, the importance of acupuncture and rehabilitation, and the role of IACUC in research. Dr. Brundage also shares insights on supporting pre-veterinary students and the future challenges facing the veterinary profession.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, Dr. Donna Harris sits down with Dr. Marguerite Pappaioanou, DVM, MPVM, PhD, DACVPM , a veterinarian with a rich history in public health and epidemiology. They discuss Dr. Marguerite's journey from veterinary school to her influential roles at the CDC and her current work in One Health and environmental health. The conversation highlights the importance of veterinarians in public health, the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, and the future challenges facing veterinary medicine.Are you a graduate of the Externship in Epidemiology Program (EEP)—a hands-on CDC experience for veterinary students focused on public health, global health, and One Health?In partnership with the CDC, Dr. Marguerite Pappaioanou created the Pappaioanou Veterinary Public Health and Applied Epidemiology Award to support emerging leaders in the field. This award offers a $1,300 stipend to one or two standout EEP graduates preparing to apply to the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS).For more details about the Pappaioanou Award, visit the CDC Foundation’s program page

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets Dr. Donna Harris sits down with global health expert Dr. Charles  Mackenzie, whose career has spanned continents and saved countless lives. From his early work in immunology to becoming a leading voice in the fight against filarial diseases like river blindness and elephantiasis, Dr. Mackenzie shares the surprising turns his career has taken and the scientific breakthroughs that followed.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, Dr. Jessie Sanders shares her journey as an aquatic veterinarian, detailing her early love for animals, her educational path, and her experiences in veterinary school. She discusses the unique aspects of caring for fish and the challenges of aquatic veterinary medicine, as well as her role in advancing the field through public speaking and education. She discusses the growth of veterinary conferences, the challenges of starting her own practice, and the importance of husbandry in fish health. Jessie emphasizes the need for better resources for fish hobbyists and veterinary students and highlights the potential for expanding fish veterinary services. She also introduces her innovative business venture, OnlyFins, aimed at providing essential products for fish care. 

In this episode of the Extraordinary Vets podcast, Dr. Donna Harris interviews Dr. Melinda Merck, a pioneer in veterinary forensics. Dr. Merck shares her journey from a young animal lover to a trailblazer in the field, discussing her early influences, experiences in veterinary school, and the ethical challenges she faced in her early career. She explains how her passion for animal welfare led her to establish her own practice and eventually transition into forensic veterinary medicine, where she has made significant contributions to the field.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, Dr. David Sherman shares his remarkable journey in veterinary medicine, detailing his role at the World Organization for Animal Health and his passion for animal health on a global scale. Dr. Sherman also highlights his expertise in goat medicine and his experiences teaching and mentoring future veterinarians, culminating in a full-circle moment as he returns to Nairobi to contribute to veterinary workforce development. He discusses his role as a state veterinarian, and his experiences in establishing veterinary services in Afghanistan. Dr. Sherman emphasizes the significance of sustainable development in veterinary practices and reflects on his transition to the World Organization for Animal Health, where he has influenced global veterinary policies.📚 Books by Dr. David ShermanExplore Dr. Sherman’s published work, each offering powerful insight into veterinary practice, global health, and sustainable service models:Tending Animals in the Global Village: A Guide to International Veterinary MedicineA foundational resource for veterinarians working in global development settings. This book explores cultural sensitivity, sustainability, and the complexity of delivering care across borders.That Sheep May Safely GrazeA compelling memoir chronicling Dr. Sherman’s experience rebuilding Afghanistan’s veterinary infrastructure from the ground up. An inspiring story of sustainable development in a conflict zone.Goat Medicine (3rd Edition)Co-authored with Dr. Mary Smith, this is the definitive evidence-based textbook on diseases of goats—used globally by practitioners, students, and development organizations.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, Dr. Ebony Escalona shares her unique journey in the veterinary field, emphasizing the importance of finding one's fit in a diverse career. She discusses her experiences in clinical practice, academia, and community building through her initiative, Vet Stay Go Diversify. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by veterinary professionals, the need for emotional intelligence, and the significance of community support in navigating career paths. Dr. Escalona encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and seek fulfillment beyond traditional roles in veterinary medicine.🌍 Vet Stay Go DiversifyExplore global veterinary career paths, mentorship, and more at vsgd.co.📣 Connect with them on social media: @vetssgd🌿 The Pangolin ProjectDedicated to protecting one of the world’s most endangered mammals. Learn more at thepangolinproject.org📱 Follow their journey on Instagram: @thepangolinproject

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, host Donna Harris sits down with Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, Uganda's first wildlife veterinarian, to explore her remarkable journey from childhood fascination with primates to her groundbreaking work in gorilla conservation. Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka shares her experiences in veterinary school in London, the challenges she faced as a trailblazer in wildlife medicine, and the profound impact of tourism on wildlife. This conversation delves into the complexities of human-wildlife conflict, the importance of a One Health approach, and the lessons learned from great apes. Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka also emphasizes the vital role of family support, economic value in conservation, and the hope she finds in the next generation's commitment to wildlife protection. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on the future of wildlife conservation and the power of following your dreams.To learn more about Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka's organization, visit https://ctph.org/

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, Dr. Stephanie Morley shares her unique journey from veterinary school to becoming an entrepreneur in the veterinary field. She discusses her early career experiences, the challenges she faced in private practice, and her transition to lab animal medicine. Dr. Morley highlights the importance of mentorship, networking, and the intersection of business and science in veterinary medicine. She also addresses the pressing issues of mental health in the profession and the impact of private equity on veterinary practices. Through her story, she inspires veterinarians to embrace change and pursue their passions.

In this episode of Extraordinary Vets, Dr. Scott Dee shares his unique journey in veterinary medicine, particularly in the swine industry. From his early aspirations of becoming a canine veterinarian to his eventual focus on pigs and microbiology, Dr. Dee discusses the challenges he faced and the emergence of significant diseases like PRRS and PED. He highlights the importance of academic rigor, mentorship, and innovative research in addressing these challenges and improving biosecurity in swine production. In this conversation, Scott Dee discusses his extensive experience in veterinary medicine, particularly in swine health. He shares insights into investigating disease outbreaks, the importance of creative thinking and communication skills in veterinary science, and his contributions to biosecurity protocols.