In Episode 220 of the Joyful DVM podcast, Dr. Cari Wise addresses a universal yet often emotionally charged topic in the veterinary profession: leaving a job. She explores why it's perfectly okay to move on; and how to do it with integrity, clarity, and grace. Whether you're running toward a new opportunity or running away from a challenging environment, this episode provides practical wisdom and encouragement for navigating professional transitions without burning bridges. Key Takeaways: You Do...
Apr 09, 2025•22 min•Ep. 220
In this episode of The Joyful DVM Podcast , Dr. Cari Wise explores the connection between stress, anxiety, and compassion in veterinary medicine. She discusses how the emotional highs and lows of the profession are natural and not indicators of personal failure. Key Takeaways Stress & Anxiety Reflect Compassion – The extent to which we experience stress is directly related to how much we care. It is not a sign of failure but a natural part of being in a compassionate profession. Client Inter...
Mar 19, 2025•29 min•Ep. 219
What happens when a client declines your veterinary recommendations? For many of us, their “no” sparks frustration, judgment, and even resentment. But what if that "no" isn’t actually a problem? In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise explores the deeper meaning behind client decisions, why we take them personally, and how shifting our mindset can reduce stress, build trust, and create a more positive veterinary experience. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 1️⃣ Why Client “No’s” Feel So Personal – Under...
Mar 05, 2025•34 min•Ep. 218
Have you ever had a client tell you, "You're only in it for the money"? If so, you’re not alone. This common statement can feel frustrating, unfair, and even personal. But why does it trigger such a strong reaction? In this episode of The Joyful DVM Podcast, Dr. Cari Wise breaks down the real reason behind this emotional response. She explores the money stories we carry, how they impact our views on pricing and client decisions, and why we must shift our mindset to find peace in veterinary medic...
Feb 26, 2025•35 min•Ep. 217
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise poses the thought-provoking question, "Who are you mad at?" This inquiry serves as a catalyst for listeners to introspect on their feelings of frustration and anger, emotions that many may not consciously recognize they are harboring. Dr. Wise encourages her audience to reflect on whether they frequently experience irritation at work or find themselves rehashing negative interactions at home, especially concerning clients or coworkers. Dr. Wise underscores the sign...
Feb 19, 2025•22 min•Ep. 216
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise introduces the concept of appointment staging, which emphasizes the importance of not feeling compelled to resolve all issues during a single veterinary visit, particularly when multiple health concerns are identified. Dr. Wise identifies several contributing factors to this pressure. One significant factor is a prevalent misconception among veterinary professionals regarding their role. Many veterinarians operate under the belief that if they identify a problem, t...
Feb 12, 2025•40 min•Ep. 215
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the profound effects of social media on mental wellbeing. The conversation centers on the importance of self-reflection regarding social media habits, encouraging listeners to evaluate the types of content that capture their attention and the emotional responses these provoke. Social media platforms often lead users into negative emotional states. Many individuals find themselves interacting with posts that elicit feelings of anger, judgment, or frustrati...
Feb 05, 2025•24 min•Ep. 214
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise explores the critical theme of maintaining personal power during chaotic times, a subject that resonates deeply with her own life experiences and those of her fellow veterinary professionals. Dr. Wise emphasizes that chaos is an inherent aspect of life, and individuals often mistakenly believe that their ability to thrive is dependent on the absence of chaos. She encourages her listeners to recognize their intrinsic worth and sense of safety, regardless of external...
Jan 22, 2025•28 min•Ep. 213
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise wraps up a three-part series focused on the Keys of Happiness in Veterinary Medicine. The third key to happiness, discussed in episode 212, revolves around self-empowerment. Dr. Wise underscores that individuals have the capacity to transform their lives and experiences without waiting for external validation or changes. Empowerment involves making choices that prioritize personal needs and desires, which may include changing jobs, seeking new relationships, establ...
Jan 01, 2025•27 min•Ep. 212
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the importance of shedding the victim identity, a mindset that many professionals may not consciously recognize they embody. Veterinary medicine is inherently chaotic and unpredictable, which can lead to significant frustration when attempts to exert control over daily events fail. Professionals often find themselves overwhelmed by factors beyond their control, including client behavior, patient responses, and equipment malfunctions. This struggle for co...
Dec 25, 2024•18 min•Ep. 211
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise reflects on her previous belief that emotions signify weakness, particularly in a profession that prioritizes logic and scientific reasoning. She recognizes that many veterinary professionals share this perspective, often placing greater importance on data and statistics than on emotional awareness. However, she stresses that emotions are a fundamental aspect of the human experience and are essential for overall happiness and wellbeing. The podcast addresses the pr...
Dec 18, 2024•27 min•Ep. 210
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the significant issue of external validation within the veterinary field and provides strategies for overcoming this challenge. External validation is defined as the need for outside affirmation to confirm one's worth or correctness in actions. The academic environment perpetuates the belief that grades are synonymous with self-worth. Many students enter veterinary programs already grappling with insecurities, and the pressure to excel can create a cycle ...
Nov 13, 2024•21 min•Ep. 209
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the critical role that veterinary technicians play in the veterinary field. She encourages listeners to express appreciation for the contributions of veterinary technicians, underscoring that their involvement is essential for creating a sustainable career environment in veterinary medicine. Dr. Wise urges veterinary technicians to recognize that while they share common challenges, their individual responses to these circumstances are crucial. Many techn...
Oct 16, 2024•13 min•Ep. 208
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the essential role of support staff in veterinary medicine and emphasizes the significance of veterinary technicians, assistants, practice managers, and kennel helpers, asserting that the sustainability and success of veterinary practices heavily rely on these team members. She advocates for a team approach in veterinary practices, where credentialed veterinary technicians can assume more responsibilities. This delegation not only alleviates the workload ...
Oct 08, 2024•17 min•Ep. 207
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of reincarnation in relation to pets, a subject that may be difficult for those who adhere strictly to scientific reasoning. While she values the scientific method, she recognizes that some of life's most beautiful experiences lie beyond the realm of rational understanding. This insight has led her to embrace experiences that are not easily categorized or explained. She underscores the inherent uncertainty in the practice of medicine. While ve...
Oct 02, 2024•20 min•Ep. 206
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the critical topic of organizational culture within veterinary medicine, particularly in veterinary hospitals, which frequently lack a supportive environment conducive to career growth. Fundamental elements of a healthy organizational culture include the establishment of clear policies and procedures, utilizing employee manuals, and conducting regular evaluations and feedback. The podcast emphasizes that individuals can effect positive change in culture b...
Sep 25, 2024•27 min•Ep. 205
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the unpredictability of veterinary practice, the impact of human errors, and the unrealistic pursuit of perfection. It emphasizes the importance of accepting human fallibility, understanding that mistakes are part of the learning process, and fostering self-compassion. The principle of "first do no harm" is explored, highlighting the intention behind actions rather than the outcomes. The podcast also stresses the significance of building trust within ones...
Sep 04, 2024•19 min•Ep. 204
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise addresses the common scenario where acquaintances ask veterinary professionals for pet advice outside of a clinical setting, often leading to feelings of annoyance and frustration. She emphasizes the importance of setting and maintaining boundaries, and explains that these requests often stem from trust and concern for pets, reflecting a level of comfort with the veterinary professional that may not exist with their regular providers. She encourages veterinary prof...
Aug 28, 2024•32 min•Ep. 203
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of living in alignment, which she elaborates on in her bestselling book "Radical Freedom." Living in alignment involves making choices free from fear and societal expectations and is essential for personal fulfillment. She outlines three pillars of alignment: the physical mind, personal essence, and universal connection. She explains that many people, especially in the veterinary field, rely heavily on logic, which can limit their potential. S...
Aug 21, 2024•33 min•Ep. 202
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses burnout among veterinary professionals, highlighting three key indicators: consistently arriving early and staying late, skipping lunch breaks, and disengagement from life outside of work. She explains that these behaviors stem from misconceptions about productivity and self-care, and they can lead to inefficiency and neglect of personal wellbeing. Dr. Wise advises professionals to critically evaluate their work habits, communicate openly with leadership ...
Aug 14, 2024•14 min•Ep. 201
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise shares twelve tips to inspire and empower listeners in their careers and personal lives. Key points include focusing on effort over perfection, understanding that patient outcomes and client decisions are beyond a veterinarian's control, and the importance of aligning work with personal values. She advises against overworking, excessive venting, and relying on historical statistics for future predictions. Dr. Wise also emphasizes concise documentation, viewing job ...
Aug 07, 2024•20 min•Ep. 200
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise, discusses five common negative aspects in veterinary careers and offers strategies to mitigate their impact on wellbeing. These aspects include: Client Behavior Unexpected Patient Outcomes Unanticipated Schedule Changes Out-of-Stock Items Broken Equipment Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes that these aspects are neutral until a negative narrative is assigned to them. By adopting a mindset of observation rather than judgment, veterinary professionals can maintain their peace...
Jul 31, 2024•25 min•Ep. 199
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise addresses the challenges faced by new graduates in their first five years of practice, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and the gradual development of confidence and skills. Dr. Wise highlights the need for patience and practice in areas such as client communication, case management, and decision-making. She advises against comparing oneself to more experienced colleagues and stresses the creation of a supportive environment for personal growth. The ep...
Jul 24, 2024•22 min•Ep. 198
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise, discusses the impact of beliefs on life and career, using daylight saving time changes as an analogy to illustrate how external factors can challenge beliefs. Dr. Wise emphasizes that beliefs shape actions and outcomes and encourages listeners to reflect on their initial beliefs in the veterinary field and challenge negative narratives. She highlights how veterinary professionals can adopt limiting beliefs over time, such as feeling trapped by debt or toxic work e...
Jul 21, 2024•32 min•Ep. 197
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of getting offended, particularly when clients do not follow veterinary recommendations. She emphasizes the importance of detaching from outcomes beyond one's control to avoid frustration and offense. She highlights the need to separate ego from the ability to serve, as clients are not obligated to follow recommendations, challenges the belief that success is tied to external validation, and stresses the importance of self-confidence and coura...
Jul 07, 2024•12 min•Ep. 196
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the importance of recognizing the diversity of experiences within the veterinary field and advises against generalizing based on one's current workplace. She discusses the impact of workplace dynamics on personal wellbeing and encourages seeking external perspectives and maintaining relationships outside of work. Dr. Wise highlights the value of self-reflection and strategic analysis to identify values, misalignments, and explore changes within one's job...
Jun 29, 2024•19 min•Ep. 195
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise addresses how to handle a busy, stressful day in a veterinary clinic. Dr. Wise emphasizes the importance of deciding in advance what kind of day you want to have and not letting external circumstances dictate your mood. She explains that our perspectives and the stories we tell ourselves about situations determine our emotional state and behavior. She advises staying aware of negative thinking patterns and choosing a positive, empowered outlook. Dr. Wise highlights...
Jun 22, 2024•31 min•Ep. 194
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Jun 15, 2024•44 min•Ep. 193
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the phenomenon of "Sunday Scaries" or "Sunday Blues," which refers to the feelings of anxiety and dread that many individuals experience when they have a day off from work but spend it worrying about returning to work. Dr. Wise shares personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed and drained by these emotions, particularly as a practice owner who works long hours. She explains how the brain tends to dwell on past regrets and future worries, creating a cycle...
Jun 07, 2024•32 min•Ep. 192
In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise shares about navigating emotions in the field of veterinary medicine. She emphasizes the importance of understanding and managing emotions in daily interactions with clients, colleagues, and personal life. Dr. Wise explains emotional conditioning and how beliefs and societal norms shape emotional responses. She challenges the idea that expressing emotions is a sign of weakness and highlights that emotions are energy that can be influenced and controlled. Listeners ...
Jun 01, 2024•24 min•Ep. 191
