Vet Mind Works Podcast

In this episode you can find out more about the podcast and its founders. Contents include: Brief summary of purpose of the show, its schedule and planned contents for future episodes.Monica, Alison and Petra introduce themselves and discuss:Their professional and personal challenges to date, and the resulting insights and learning points Their main motivation for starting the podcastWhich contents and topics are particularly important to themWho they would like the podcast to be for and what will be so special about this showHow To Support Us:We are happily funding this podcast ourselves to keep it independent. However, you can show your support by giving a donation towards a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues: https://galaxyvets.foundation/campaigns/mental-health-support-for-ukrainian-veterinary-professionals/The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Welcome to our very first episode with a guest! We are starting our podcast with a mini-series on the personal resources, which are essential for performance and wellbeing: attention, energy and time. We firmly belief that learning to manage these resources well is key to a sustainable and enjoyable work life- but of course this is not always easy and so we are inviting guests who can share their own insights and experiences around resource management. Our first guest is Steph Sorrell, European Veterinary Specialist in Small Animal Internal Medicine and RCVS Specialist in Feline Medicine. Steph has also completed the level 5 Diploma in Mental Health Awareness and Wellbeing and Mindfulness Champion training and is passionate about increasing the mental health in the veterinary profession. Steph shares her own thoughts, insights and experiences about attention and attention control. In this episode we discuss: How controlling our attention can improve the work we do, how we feel and our ability to reflect on our activitiesWays in which attention has helped Steph to deal with her own personal and professional challengesThe way in which attention can help us to process our emotions How we can learn to become more attentive Where to find Steph Sorrell: On the web:https://themindfulvet.co.uk On social media:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-sorrell-02bb85164/https://www.instagram.com/themindfulvetuk/https://www.facebook.com/mindfullivingvetTuesday evening sessions 8pm BST (together with Petra Agthe):The live sessions are currently paused as we are working on a YouTube channel with on-demand recordings.Other resources you may find interesting: Podcasts on the topic of attention: https://brenebrown.com/podcast/finding-focus-and-owning-your-attention/https://drchatterjee.com/johann-hari-on-how-to-reclaim-your-attention/Interesting books on the topichttps://amishi.com/books/peak-mindhttps://stolenfocusbook.comWant to start meditating? Here are some of our recommendations for meditation Apps:Ten Percent Happier (Basic courThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Join host Petra and our guest Marie Holowaychuk (Emergency and Critical Care Specialist, yoga and mindfulness teacher and coach) for an insightful discussion all around the topic of energy.0:56  Introduction to episode and about Marie6:00  Importance of energy regulation 8:07 About energy management and change10:42 Interconnection of energy management with awareness, time management and boundary setting12:56 Why the term 'balance' can sometimes be unhelpful14:56 Importance of boundary setting17:25 Marie personal challenges with energy regulation, the importance of self-compassion, the effects of age and mindfulness23:13 Additional tips and tricks: about honesty, work-life compartmentalisation and seeing ourselves as important enough31:46 What intention and values have to do with energy management33:12 Why the feeling of guilt often gets in the way and what to do about it35:05 Quick and easy bits: delegation, and making things more efficient or fun37:20 Building the skill of energy managementWhere to find Marie Holowaychuk:On the web:Website: https://marieholowaychuk.com/ Podcast: https://reviving-vet-med.castos.com/ YouTube Channel: https://marieholowaychuk.com/youtube On social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrMarieHolowaychukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/marieholowaychuk/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarieholowaychuk/Medium: https://drmarieholowaychuk.medium.com/Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrMHolowaychukHow To Support Us:We are happily funding this podcast ourselves to keep it independent. However, you can show your support by giving a donation towards a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Are you also struggling to find enough time to do all the things you need and want to do? You are certainly in good company as this is a phenomenon affecting most of us. And while there is no way to increase this finite resource, there are a few things that we can do to help us feel a little more in control. Our guest Karla Borland is a busy veterinary anaesthetist and competitive long-distance runner who has tried out a few things herself and is sharing her insights and experiences with host Petra Agthe. Main points discussed in this episode: 0:56  Introduction to episode4:30  Karla's busy schedule7:47  Karla's 3 key principles: Awareness of mortality, prioritisation, saying no when needed 10:19  Importance of good communication, importance of sustainability and acceptance of imperfection 19:00  Karla's tips on scheduling, email inbox system and making good use of little time pockets; connection between time, energy and attention; perfectionism revisited24:56  Importance of allowing time for recovery31:59  How to avoid procrastination33:23  Where to find Karla, Conclusion and Preview on next episodeOther resources you may be interested in:Podcast with Oliver Burkman about time management: https://www.tenpercent.com/podcast-episode/oliver-burkeman-456Website Oliver Burkman: https://www.oliverburkeman.comHow to say no: https://www.verywellmind.com/say-no-to-people-making-demands-on-your-time-3145025Reducing perfectionism: https://www.verywellmind.com/overcoming-The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Are you interested in how to deliver the best care for our patients and applying our clinical skills to the best of our ability? And would you like to know what our wellbeing has to do with it? Then you may want to listen to this conversation between host Petra Agthe and our guest Dan Tipney, who is an expert in human factors with experience in a variety of professions including sports, aviation, human healthcare and veterinary medicine. In this episode, Dan shares lots of interesting information all around the topic of delivering safe patient care - and about the fact that this can only be achieved, if we look adequately after our own physiological and psychological needs as individual and as teams. Main points discussed in this episode: 0:57    Why our show is advertisement free1:57    Introduction to this episode and introducing Dan5:25    About the relationship between performance and wellbeing10:51 Emotions, emotion regulation and how breathing techniques can help28:30 Weakness or strength? The two ends of the extreme in the human factor discussion, and the effects of dehydration, insufficient rest and sleep.36:51 Performance vs performing39:47 Detachment from outcome42:03 High performing veterinary teams45:05 Where to find Dan, Conclusion and PreviewDan's favourite resources on the topic: The high performance podcast: https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.com/podcastI am... with Jonny Wilkinson: https://i-am-with-jonny-wilkinson.simplecast.com/episodesBrené Brown - Dare to Lead: https://brenebrown.com/hubs/dare-to-lead/Other resources you may be interested in:How breath-control can change your life- scientific review article: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6137615/Breathing exercise for stress: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/guides-tools-and-activities/breathing-exercises-for-stress/Where to find Dan Tipney and VetLed:https://www.vetled.co.uk/https://www.instagram.com/vetledteam/https://www.facebook.com/VetLedteam/The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

The psychologist Carl Jung once said that “until you make the unconscious conscious, it will direct your life and you will call it fate”. In this episode we are taking a deeper dive and explore why knowing ourselves can be so powerful and how we may achieve a greater degree of self-awareness, so that we can be more in charge of our lives. Our guest Clive Elwood is a specialist in small animal internal medicine as well as an executive coach and author of the book Leadership in Veterinary Medicine, and he has  lots of insights, knowledge and experience to offer on the topic. In this conversation with host Petra Agthe we discuss many interesting aspects of self-awareness and related concepts, including:  0:57    Introduction to the episode and introducing Clive2:59    Importance of self-leadership and self-awareness in leadership7:50    Self-awareness, self-communication and self-compassion12:31 The inner critic and self-compassion15:20 Selves-awareness: looking beyond the one authentic self and allowing different identities and parts ourselves19:17 Behavioural scripts: how to break out of habitual reactions27:10 Loosening the grip on identity30:16 How to increase self-awareness35:43 Pitfalls and difficulties relating to self-awareness37:20 A lesson from history38:57 Where to find Clive and ConclusionClive's favourite books on the topic: Victor E. Frankl (2004) Man's Search for Meaning. Random House Group.Williams M , Penman D . (2011) Mindfulness: a practical guide to finding peace in a frantic world . London : Piatkus.Brené Brown  (2015) Daring greatly : how the courage to be vulnerable transforms the way we live, love, parent, and lead. Penguin Life, LondonSiegel, D. (2011) Mindsight : transform your brain with the science of kindness. New York: Oneworld Publications.Van der Kolk, B. A. (2015) The body keeps the score : brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. New York, New York: Penguin Books.Other resources you may be interested in:Genpo Roshi A guided meditation through your interiors https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n22a1Hf4rjkWhere to find Clive:Website:  https://trelliscoaching.co.ukLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/clive-elwood-frcvs-b7aba216/ Twitter:     @cliveelwoodClive's book Leadership in Veterinary Medicine: The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Values - what could be a better topic at the start of a new year!? Values can serve as an 'inner compass' helping us to make sure that our life has direction, depth and meaning.  Join the conversation between host Petra Agthe and our guest Liv Oginska, who explore some important questions and facts around this topic, including: 0:57     Introduction to this episode and introducing Liv3:30    What are values and why are they important?9:14     How our values get shaped12:21  General vs situational values18:28  How working with values can sometimes bring up difficult emotions22:02  Values as a basis for wellbeing, fulfilment and growth23:34  How to gain clarity about our values28:29  Differentiating our own values from those imposed by society/other people and how to deal with conflicting values34:17  Other pitfalls and challenges with values40:05  Values and flexibility41:55  Values, strengths and flow46:16  Liv's favourite resources on the topic of values47:23  Where to find Liv and ConclusionLiv's favourite resources on the topic:Podcasts: https://www.thehighperformancepodcast.comhttps://stevenbartlett.com/the-diary-of-a-ceo-podcast/Book:Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown: https://brenebrown.com/book/atlas-of-the-heart/Where to find Liv: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-oginska-dvm-mrcvs-pgcertsas-mapp-53b345200/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vetgonereal/ and https://www.instagram.com/explore/tags/humansavvy/Website: https://behumansavvy.comWe are happily funding this podcast ourselves to keep it independent. However, you can show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues: https://galaxyvets.foundation/campaigns/mental-health-support-for-ukrainian-veterinary-professionals/The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Let’s face it: we are often better at looking after others than we are looking after ourselves. But why is it so difficult to put our own proverbial oxygen mask on even when it comes to our basic physiological needs, and why is it so important that we do? These are just some of the questions that we are exploring in the conversation between Dan Tipney and host Petra Agthe. Dan Tipney is an expert in human factors with experience in a variety of professions including sports, aviation, human healthcare and veterinary medicine, and he is a returning guest on our podcast. In this episode, Dan draws on personal experiences as well as scientific background knowledge to help us bridge the gap of knowing what we should do and actually doing it by discussing many different aspects including: 0:56   A thank you to our listeners1:23   Introduction to this episode and introducing Dan2:44   Bridging the gap between knowing and doing of self-care5:37   What is so important about looking after our physiological needs8:51   Interconnection between physiological needs, emotional state and rational thinking11:54 Our brains explained: Threatening situations and roles of the amygdala and prefrontal cortex17:32 Understanding our challenges and focusing on the things we can control24:00 System vs individual factors of control25:48 Petra and Dan give personal examples of avoiding the threat state by taking control29:52 Additional things which can help us to close the gap between knowing and doing: moving from immediate returns to long-term rewards, changing behaviours by making use of triggers, and preplanning37:28 Overcoming barriers to self-care by seeing caring for ourselves as caring for others41:57 About time pressures and a balanced approach to resilience44:58 Dan's favourite resources on the topic of physiological needs46:23 Where to find Dan and ConclusionsYou may also be interested in: Vet Mind Works Podcast Episode 4: Performance and Wellbeing - with Dan Tipney Dan's favourite resources on this topic:Wellbeing resources from Guys and St Thomas' Hospital: https://www.guysandstthomaseducation.com/projectsleep-looking-after-your-wellbeing/HALT campaign resources from Vetled: https://www.vetled.co.uk/haltWhy we Sleep by Matthew Walker: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/295665/why-we-sleep-by-walkerThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Do you also introduce yourself to others with your job title, such as 'Hello, my name is XX and I am a vet/vet nurse/...'? Well, you may think again after this episode! Having a sense of identity can be really important to us. It gives us an idea of who we are and where we belong. However, sometimes identity can also trip us up and we can identify so much with our jobs that there is little else left. Our guest Ebony Escalona founder of the veterinary community Vets: Stay, Go or Diversify is very familiar with the question of identity and has many wise insights and helpful perspectives to share on the topic. Areas covered in this deep and interesting conversation with host Petra include: 00:57 Introduction to the episode and introducing Ebony04:49 About Ebony's definition of identity and how it be helpful and unhelpful10:51 Identity, worthiness, human skills and the question of success13:29 Shifting from who we are to what we do, and trying identity on for fit15:16 Ebony's own challenges with identity and learning to hold identity more lightly: non-binary thinking, trying out for fit, learn something new, learn to quit22:30 Identity and embodied experience26:22 The importance of unlearning and leaning into discomfort30:13 Identity, impermanence and overcoming envy35:32 Human skills revisited37:12 Giving yourself permission for evolution and development39:15 Ebony's most favourite resources40:43 Where to find Ebony and Vets: Stay, Go00:42:29 Good-byeYou may also be interested in: Vet Mind Works Podcast Episode 5: Self-awareness with Clive ElwoodEbony's favourite resources on this topic:Book: ‘Permission to feel’ by Dr Mark Brackett: https://www.marcbrackett.com/about/book-permission-to-feel/Podcast: Amazing If – The Squiggly Careers Podcast: https://www.amazingif.com/listen/Where to find Ebony Escalona and Vets: Stay, Go or Diversify (VSGD):Social media handles: @ebonyescalona @vetssgd @vetyoucommunityVSGD website: https://vsgd.coVSGD: Download free Reflect Align Explore Workbook https://share.hsforms.com/1X1Nl6OM2TJ2GcIYvVA-Tbgbvuzn and Win of the Week workbook https://share.hsforms.com/1H-7RsZlwSGm8x-paMBMopAbvuznWe are hThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Although today's episode is perhaps a little more lighthearted, it is still important and relates back our most recent episode with Ebony Escalona on Identity (https://vetmindworks.buzzsprout.com/2020620/12307186) and also illustrates how our activities outside work can not only benefit our mental wellbeing and physical health, but how they actually support our carriers and work satisfaction.This easy-going episode with guest Alasdair Hotston Moore and host Petra Agthe includes: 01:02   We have news to share!02:04   Introduction to the episode and introducing Alasdair 05:48   How hobbies are related to our identify and how they can help us to navigate life and work06:55   The way that Alasdair has been exploring the world through his hobbies and how photography has allowed him to discover different perspectives13:33   The benefits of physical aspects of hobbies15:28   Summary: hobbies and identity, perspective taking, spending time in the moment, redirecting energy and emotional processing20:12   Hobbies as an opportunity for building social connections and consistent routine25:58   Importance of considering working patterns to accommodate hobbies27:46   How enabling participation in hobbies can contribute to higher job satisfaction and retention30:49   Alasdair's tips on finding a hobby35:21   Potential downsides to hobbies39:28   Final thoughts40:27   Where to find Alasdair43:10   Good-byeYou may also be interested in: Previous Vet Mind Works podcast episodes relating to identity and as well as management of time and energyAn article looking into the science how hobbies can be beneficial for our mental health: https://research.reading.ac.uk/research-blog/the-science-behind-why-hobbies-can-improve-our-mental-health/An article about how hobbies can support us in our work lives: https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/be-in-the-know/202105/how-hobbies-can-help-you-workWhere to find Alasdair Hotston Moore on the web:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.coThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

How can we prevent getting tired of our jobs and losing the sparkle? Our wonderful guest Andrew Ciccolini works for two non-for profit organisations including the Galaxy Vets Foundation, and has a few tips to share. This conversation with host Petra Agthe covers a large range of aspects including:00:58 Introduction to episode and why Andrew is a very special guest02:57 Introducing our new partner VIN03:53 Introducing Andrew Ciccolini05:42 The ways in which job diversification worked for Andrew09:49 How to make diversification a fulfilling opportunity and not a stressful experience 12:05 How diversification can help us to keep the passion for our work 14:28 Juggling different job roles and time management20:17 Andrews Top Tips to make diversification work; Job rotation, horizontal and vertical job loading28:09 Challenges with job diversification 29:58 Building a culture of diversification and tapping into intrinsic motivation32:48 Planning diversification in emergency clinics and telemedicine as an opportunity35:59 Andrew’s most favourite resources37:32 Where to find Andrew38:24 Good-byeYou may also be interested in: Previous Vet Mind Works podcast episodes relating to identity. Andrews most favourite books on leadership: Colin Powell: It Worked For Me Pete Blaber: The Mission, The Men and MeWhere to find Andrew Ciccolini on the web:Galaxy Vets Foundation Website: https://galaxyvets.foundationGalaxy Vets Foundation on LinkedIn, Facebook, InstagramAndrew's Instagram profile: https://www.instagram.com/okay_vet/  The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

This is our first Vet Mind Works podcast episode with host Alison Collings! Alison is joined by Rachael Paul, owner of Simply Veterinary, a headhunting and coaching firm dedicated solely to the veterinary industry. Rachael specializes in helping veterinary leaders become inspirational by raising their self-awareness to a whole new level. Rachel talks about how we can cultivate confidence.In this episode, we discuss:Developing trust in oneselfTechniques to cultivate confidenceWhat to do when you are feeling overwhelmed by self-doubtRachel shares ways in which she has pushed herself out of her comfort zoneThe first key step to becoming more confident  Time-points:1:38     Rachel Paul: introduction5:43     Trusting yourself to take first step into confidence8:31     Building confidence through action12:28   Imagining success boosts confidence and performance16:16   Develop trust and courage, practice confidence19:07   Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection22:11   Benefits of having a coach25:30   Drop the comparisons30:01   Overcoming the fear32:34   How to contact RachelResources: Book: The Confidence Gap by Russ Harris https://amzn.eu/d/b7tdZEzWhere to find Rachel: Website: https://www.simplyveterinarycoaching.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rachaelpaulsimplyveterinaryInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplyveterinarycoaching/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplyveterinarycoachingThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

How can we stay human when we work in a challenging profession? And how can mindful awareness (= noticing our present moment experiences with curiosity and acceptance) help us in this process? How can we become better in emotion regulation and what has situation awareness (aka de-centring or reframing) to do with it? Join us for a deep dive into the answers to these and other questions in this week's episode. Our guest Dr Carter Lebares, MD FACS is a pioneer in the research of surgeon wellbeing in human health care and she has many facts and insights to offer in this truly fascinating conversation with host Petra Agthe. Timestamps:00:58 Introduction to episode and Dr Carter Lebares03:08 About our partner VIN Europe04:00 About Carter's work and research, and how she came to explore the role of mindful awareness in surgery07:48 Effects of mindful awareness in health care settings12:49 How mindfulness awareness can change mindsets, perspectives and culture18:23 How situation awareness (or de-centring) is associated with emotion regulation and how it can help with after-work recovery22:25 About the importance of recovery, rest and intentional recharge25:20 How mindfulness practices help to train the mind (even though they do not always feel relaxing!)27:21 Mindful awareness and emotion regulation when dealing with mistakes and other stressful events31:17 Carter shares personal stories about how to stay human in a demanding profession and the importance of acknowledging and processing our emotions37:00 About the importance of trauma awareness in mindfulness training39:34 Carter's most favourite resources on the topic of mindful awareness44:13 How to find out more about Carter's work and ESRT courses46:13 GoodbyeWhere to find more information about Carter and her work: https://mindfulsurgeon.ucsf.eduhttps://carterlebares.orgCarters most favourite book authors on the topic:Thich Nhat Hanh: https://plumvillage.org/about/thich-nhat-hanh/key-booksRam Dass: https://www.ramdass.org/ram-dass-books-timeline/You may also be interested in: More about Jon Kabat-ZinnPrevious episodes with related topics1. Attention - with Steph Sorrell5. Self-Awareness - with Clive ElwThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Welcome to our anniversary episode! We are so excited that the Vet Mind Works Podcast has been going for a full year. This episode is also very special, because it touches on many topics that we have already covered, and it relates to some other subjects yet to explore! Host Petra Agthe and our guest nutritionist and intuitive eating counsellor Ela Law we are discussing all around the topic of food and nutrition, and how we can best support our brains and bodies best in our busy lives. Timestamps:00:56   Introduction to episode and Ela Law02:10   About our partner VIN Europe03:03   Editorial notes and welcoming Ela04:50   What food and nutrition have to do with values, identity and shame07:19   What makes nutrition so important for busy veterinary professionals11:37   The gut brain axis14:00   About food, our bodies and trust15:58   About intuitive eating28:32   Why intuitive eating can be particularly helpful for busy professionals33:36   Common difficulties and pitfalls regarding nutrition in general37:58   Why our weight may not determine our health42:12   Ela's most favourite resources on the topic of nutrition and food44:20   Where to find Ela on the web46:04   GoodbyeWhere to find more information about Ela and her work: Ela's website:  https://www.elalawnutrition.co.ukFind Ela on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedInEla's most favourite resources on the topic:Podcast: Maintainance Phase with  Aubrey Gordon and Michael Hobbes https://www.maintenancephase.comBooks:Intuitive Eating by Evelyn Tribole & Elyse ReshUnapologetic Eating by Alissa Rumsey  More than a body by Lindsay & Lexie KitePrevious Vet Mind Works Podcast episodes on related topics:Physiological needs with Dan TipneyValues with Liv OginskaIdentity with Ebony EscalonaThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

This is an episode about a very special skill, which may sound soft but has been shown to make us anything but soft or weak. Self-compassion has been shown to help us adopt a growth mindset, reduce feelings of shame, be more motivated, experience greater happiness and life satisfaction, better relationships, greater physical and mental health (including reduced burnout and compassion fatigue) as well as the ability to cope better with stressful life events including failure (academic or otherwise) and trauma. Host and long-term self-compassion practitioner Petra Agthe is diving deep into the topic with our guest the Mindful Self-compassion teacher Ali Lambie. This episode includes:00:57 Introduction to episode and to self-compassion as a life skill02:43 Introduction to Ali Lambie03:46 About our partner VIN Europe04:31 Welcoming Ali05:15 What is self-compassion?11:08 About the importance of common humanity11:58 Why self-compassion may be particularly helpful for veterinary professionals21:28 Self-compassion as an antidote to compassion fatigue23:24 Self-compassion as a resource-building exercise25:26 Common pitfalls, barriers and misconceptions34:06 Why self-compassion is sometimes hard38:12 What is fierce self-compassion?41:34 How can we best learn self-compassion47:43 Ali's most favourite resources on the topic49:53 More about Ali's services51:34 GoodbyeWhere to find more information about Ali and her work: Ali's website:  https://www.mindfulnesshampshire.co.ukFind Ali on Instagram and FacebookAli’s recommended resources:Video on the difference between empathy and compassion: https://youtu.be/ebJTV5kTIU0?si=Is9MxoaA8MCTmEDmKristin Neff’s website https://self-compassion.orgOther helpful websites: Rick Hanson, Brené Brown, Tara Brach, Jack Kornfield, Books:Neff, K. and Germer, C. (2018) The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook. New York: The Guilford PressNeff, K. (2021) Fierce Self-Compassion: how women can harness kindness to speak up, claim their power and thrive. London: PenguinGermer, C.K. (2009) The mindful path to self-compassion. New York: GuilfThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Today's episode is all about a delicate subject and deeply unpleasant emotion, namely shame. Shame can be a powerful driver of behaviours and attitudes in human medicine, impacting clinical practice, medical education, experiences relating to medical errors, wellbeing of healthcare workers and more. In this deeply insightful episode, host Petra Agthe and shame researcher Professor Luna Dolezal are exploring the topic of shame, its potential relevance in human and veterinary medicine, as well as mentioning strategies which may help to reduce frequency and/or intensity of shame experiences. Timestamps:00:57 Introduction to episode02:50 Introduction to Luna Dolezal03:40 About our partner VIN Europe04:32 Welcoming Luna and what made her interested in shame research09:12 Gender differences relating to shame experiences and our professional norms11:50 Luna's definition of shame15:07 What lies at the core of shame16:10 Shame as a warning signal19:15 The relevance of shame in the medical profession29:21 What can be done to reduce shame in medical practice?39:04 Luna's recommended resources and finding out more about Luna's work41:59 Good-bye and preview on next month's episodeLuna's Projects on the topic of shame:Shame and Medicine Project: Website and LinkedIn PageClive Elwood's blogpost on the Shame and Medicine BlogThe Nocturnist Podcast- Series: Shame in Medicine Other resources:Brent Brown's shame resilience theory on the Positive Psychology WebsiteChris Germer on shame and self-compassion: On the CMSC websiteIn a YouTube videoPrevious VMW Podcast episodes relating to shame:Ali Lambie Self-compassionEla Law Food & NutritionThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

This is a deep dive into the topic of being good enough! Host Petra Agthe is exploring the topic with guests Clive Elwood and Ruth Serlin, who have many insights to share.Timestamps:00:00:56 Introduction to episode00:03:49 About our partner VIN Europe00:04:34 Welcoming Clive and Ruth00:05:08 What does 'good enough' mean?00:21:04 How Clive and Ruth have found their 'good enough' space00:29:55 About identity, striving for perfection and 'the Gold Standard' 00:34:34 The discomfort of imperfection, and comfort of relationships00:40:26 Cultivating a sense of good enoughness00:47:51 Pitfalls and difficulties of being or becoming good enough01:06:37 Clive's and Ruth's most favourite resources on the topic01:08:41 Where to find out more about Clive and Ruth01:11:06 Good-byeEpisodes you may also be interested in:5. Self-awareness with Clive Elwood14. Self-compassion with Ali Lambie15. Shame with Prof Luna DolezalBook recommendations mentioned in this episode:The Myth of Normal by Dr Gabor Maté Daring Greatly and Dare to Lead by Brené BrownThe Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read by Philippa Perry Talk: The Science of Conversation by Elizabeth StokeWhere to find Clive:Website:  https://trelliscoaching.co.ukLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/clive-elwood-frcvs-b7aba216/ Twitter:     @cliveelwoodClive's book Leadership in Veterinary Medicine: https://www.wiley.com/en-ie/Leadership+in+Veterinary+Medicine-p-9781119749769Where to find Ruth:VDS website: https://www.vds-training.co.uk/aboutLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruth-serlin-ab492199/The Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Courage is something often associated with great bravery and heroism, but what if it was actually about something more subtle and quiet? What if it was a life skill for every day? In this episode, host Petra had the great pleasure to talk to veterinary specialist, CPD provider and fellow podcaster Scott Kilpatrick, who brings a lot of wisdom and lived experience to the topic of courage. Scott explains how courage features for him every day, even though it may not necessarily feel courageous in the process - and what courage has to do with dancing giraffes!Full contents of this episode include:00:00:57 Introduction to episode00:02:26 Introduction to Scott Kilpatrick00:03:57 About our partners VIN Europe00:04:43 Welcoming Scott and introducing the topic of courage00:06:32 What courage means to Scott00:13:20 About courage, forgiveness and letting go00:20:10 About courage, fear and coping skills00:25:40 Courage and making decisions with the heart or the head00:28:02 About facing regrets and mistakes00:34:32 How to cultivate courage00:46:12 Difficulties and pitfalls with courage00:56:41 Scott's top tips on finding helpful resources00:59:01 Where to find out more about Scott and his work01:02:37 GoodbyeWhere to find more information about Scott and his work: Veterinary Thought Exchange VTX website:  https://vtx-cpd.com/about/Find VTX on LikedIn, Facebook and InstagramFind Scott on LinkedInYou may also be interested in: Ten Percent Happier Podcast episodes about courage:Vulnerability: The key to courage with Brené BrownHow to be courageous with Stacy McClendonThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

Welcome to another juicy episode! This time, host Petra is exploring the topic of self-regulation with Crina Dragu, who works as a veterinary dentist and has had a very diverse life experience. This is a deep conversation about how to master the challenges of life in general and of veterinary work in particular using the skill of finding 'calmness in uncomfortable situations'. Full contents of this episode include:00:57 Introduction to episode02:20 Introducing Crina04:27 About our partners VIN Europe05:13 Welcoming Crina05:54 About self-regulation and its importance13:12 Self-regulation as a transferrable skill to greater freedom of choice and calmness20:58 Self-regulation as calmness in an uncomfortable situation24:42 Facing into challenges with self-regulation35:25 Self-regulation and identity38:09 About the challenge of 'just being'40:29 How to cultivate self-regulation47:48 The pitfalls of self-regulation50:15 Self-regulation as an ongoing practice52:08 Crina's most favourite resources on self-regulation53:19 More about Crina and her work58:11 Good-byeCrina's most favourite resources on the topic:Shame: https://brenebrown.com/Meditation: https://www.tarabrach.com/https://jackkornfield.com/Yoga: Byron Katie https://thework.com/; also mentioned in this episode: Bryon Best https://poweryoga.comRelationships: https://www.estherperel.com/Where to find more information about Crina and her work: On InstagramOn LinkedInYou may also be interested in: Previous Vet Mind Works Podcast episodes relating to self-regulationCourageBeing Good EnoughShameMindful AwarenessIdentityPhysiological NeedsSelf-awarenessThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay

In this episode, host Petra Agthe and guest Katie Ford are looking at a previously covered topic from a specific perspective: The skill of self-compassion and how this can help us to navigate imposterism or imposter feelings (more commonly known as imposter syndrome, which is why we stuck to it in the title). In the conversation, Katie shares her own experiences and helpful insights. We are also touching on some previous themes such as shame, identity, courage and confidence, so it may be worth to listen back to these as well! Time stamps: 00:57 Introduction to episode03:01Introduction to Katie03:58 About our partners VIN Europe04:44 Welcoming Katie05:50 Clarifying terminology08:19 Definitions of imposterism and self-compassion14:15 Common causes of imposterism18:28 Imposterism and shame28:05 The three components of shame and self-compassion30:29 How can we cultivate self-compassion32:07 How Katie has applied self-compassion in her life41:07 When anxiety may be there for a good reason44:26 Some other tools to help with imposter experience48:49 Pitfalls and stumbling blocks52:35 Katie's most favourite resources55:10 More about Katie's work56:48 GoodbyWhere to find more information about Katie and her work: On InstagramOn LinkedInKatie's website: https://www.katiefordvet.comKatie's own podcast Inspired and AuthenticVet Empowered website: https://www.vetempowered.com/Also mentioned in this episode: The Veterinary Human Factors Conference Previous Vet Mind Works Podcast episodes relating to this topic:CourageShameConfidenceIdentityThe Veterinary Information Network (VIN) is lending us a hand by helping us with editing our podcast episodes. More about VIN here.We continue to happily fund all costs for this podcast ourselves but you show your support by donating towards a fundraising campaign in aid of a mental health project for Ukrainian veterinary colleagues hosted by the Galaxy Vets FoundationWe value your feedback! Please email us your thoughts, ideas and suggestions to vetmindworks@gmail.com or follow us on LinkedIn and FacebookWant to find out more about host Petra? Follow on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/petra-agthe-562bb65b Credits: Music- Deep Ambience by Coma-Media, Pixabay; Images for Artwork- OpenClipart-Vectors, Pixabay