The Joyful DVM Podcast: Empowering Veterinary Professionals - podcast cover

The Joyful DVM Podcast: Empowering Veterinary Professionals

Dr. Cari Wise, DVM, MAEd, Certified Life Coachcariwise.com

After graduating from veterinary school over twenty years ago, struggling to create balance, and failing to protect her mental health and emotional wellbeing, Dr. Cari Wise finally ditched all the rules and forged her own path forward. If you're a veterinary professional looking to up-level your life and your career, or maybe looking to go in an entirely new direction, then the topics we discuss on the Joyful DVM podcast is absolutely for you.

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Episodes

#190: Are you REALLY fine, or are you settling?

In this episode Dr. Cari Wise discusses the habit of responding with "I'm fine" and the consequences of not considering how we really feel emotionally. She explains that many people in the veterinary field use busyness as a way to avoid confronting their emotions, which can lead to burnout and dissatisfaction. Dr. Wise encourages listeners to honestly evaluate their emotional state and question if settling for being "fine" is truly satisfying. By focusing on emotional wellbeing and making delibe...

May 22, 202423 minEp. 190

#189: It Was Always Going To Happen That Way

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise shares an update on the Bluebirds that nest on her deck each year including unexpected events, heartbreak and a reminder we can all lean on when things don't turn out exactly the way we planned. Resources: ⭐ Get The Alternative Career Guide for Veterinary Professionals: Create A Career Tailored to You! https://joyfuldvm.com/jobguide ⭐ Join VetMed;JOY CLUB: Elevate Your Life & Veterinary Career Experience https://joyfuldvm.com/joyclub ⭐ Listen to The Joyful DVM ...

May 15, 202414 minEp. 189

#188: Nurturing Resentment

In this episode Dr. Cari Wise discusses the negative effects of harboring resentment in our lives. She highlights five signs of nurturing resentment, and explains that resentment originates from the belief that external factors dictate our emotions and life experiences, leading to a victim mindset. Dr. Wise shares that overcoming resentment involves acknowledging its presence, challenging its grip, and seeking closure without relying on external validation. Releasing resentment empowers individu...

May 08, 202418 minEp. 188

#187: How Joyful DVM Helps Veterinary Professionals (Who we help and How we do it!)

In this episode Dr. Cari Wise takes shares how Joyful DVM supports veterinary professionals today and provides encouragement for anyone currently struggling in their lives or veterinary careers. Takeaways Include: - The Joyful DVM podcast is dedicated to supporting veterinary professionals across various roles in the field of veterinary medicine. - It covers a wide range of topics relevant to both personal and professional life, providing encouragement and valuable insights. - The organization a...

May 01, 202428 minEp. 187

#186: Vision Casting & Letting Go

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise emphasizes the importance of envisioning the life one desires and encourages listeners to consider all aspects of life such as time, energy, relationships, and health. Dr. Wise urges her audience to break free from the status quo and avoid unfulfilling routines. She encourages listeners to identify their true desires and let go of anything hindering their progress, while stressing the significance of creating a vision for the future without worrying about the "how"...

Apr 27, 20249 minEp. 186

#185: Reclaiming Your Identity

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of identity and its relevance to veterinary professionals. She notes that many individuals in the veterinary field tend to primarily identify themselves by their credentials and occupational labels, which can result in a disconnection from other aspects of their lives. Dr. Wise shares that this disconnection is often a consequence of the sacrifices made during the academic journey to become a veterinary professional, and emphasizes the importa...

Apr 24, 202417 minEp. 185

#184: No Wasted Struggle

In this episode Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of struggle and its impact on our lives. She emphasizes that struggles are a universal experience and can affect various aspects of our lives such as internal, external, physical, emotional, and spiritual. Dr. Wise argues that struggles are a natural part of being human and that there is value in every struggle we face. She encourages listeners to reflect on their past struggles and acknowledge how these experiences have shaped and transformed ...

Apr 14, 202414 minEp. 184

#183: The Link Between Wellbeing & Navigating Resistance

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of resistance and how it is often mistaken for procrastination. Resistance occurs when we have a desire to do something but struggle to take action. It tends to show up around creative activities or things that bring pleasure and enjoyment, but may not necessarily produce tangible results or be considered productive by society. Dr. Wise emphasizes the importance of not judging or dismissing these activities, as they are still important for per...

Apr 10, 202425 minEp. 183

#182: Time Off, Demons & Personal Alignment Clues

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise shares about the challenge she encountered when faced with unexpected time off from clinical practice. She explains how busyness can be a buffer and coping mechanism, keeping us from experiencing uncomfortable emotions and personal truths; and shared her own experience with this phenomena. Dr. Wise reminds us that even uncomfortable emotion has purpose and leaves clues, especially in relation to our life purpose and personal alignment. She encourages listeners to p...

Apr 06, 202417 minEp. 182

#181: The Positive (& Negative) Impacts of Community

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the positive and negative impacts of community on the lives and careers of veterinary professionals. Dr. Wise defines community as the people we spend the most time with, including colleagues, friends, family, and social or religious groups. She shares that being part of a community creates a sense of belonging and security, allows for knowledge and resource sharing, and provides a support system of people who understand the challenges and joys of working...

Apr 03, 202435 minEp. 181

#180: Who's Got Your Back?

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the importance of having a support system and community in both personal and professional life. She emphasizes the need for people who will stand up for and support us, even when we make mistakes or behave poorly. Dr. Wise believes that having a community of like-minded individuals who understand the challenges of veterinary medicine is crucial for maintaining balance and avoiding feelings of isolation. She particularly highlights the pressure faced by so...

Mar 30, 202410 minEp. 180

#179 Leaving Your Mistakes Behind

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise explores the topic of mistakes and how they can hinder our progress if we don't learn to release them. Dr. Wise explains that mistakes should not define us or restrict our potential for the future. Instead, they should be viewed as opportunities for growth and learning. She emphasizes the importance of forgiving ourselves for being human and not carrying our mistakes from one experience to another. Dr. Wise challenges the concept of imposter syndrome and encourages...

Mar 27, 202419 minEp. 179

#178 Connecting With What Moves You

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the importance of recognizing and embracing the things that emotionally and energetically move us. Dr. Wise shares her observations on two things that consistently move her: animals and music. She emphasizes the significance of the human-animal bond, particularly in difficult situations, and how it enhances the overall experience for both pet owners and veterinarians. Dr. Wise encourages listeners to pay attention to what moves them energetically and emot...

Mar 22, 202413 minEp. 178

#177 Lies About Money That Keep You Stuck

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses six common money lies that keep people stuck. The first lie is that money creates safety, but it is important to recognize that money is a man-made concept and should not be the sole determinant of our safety and value as individuals. The second lie is that money equals success, but success is subjective and should be defined based on personal values and goals. The third lie is that making lots of money is indulgent, but making money is not inherently ind...

Mar 20, 202425 minEp. 177

#176 Navigating Unexpected Change

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses how people respond to unexpected change and shares her own experience of unexpectedly losing a staff member. Dr. Wise shares that change is inevitable and that there is always someone ready to step into a vacant role. She encourages embracing change with curiosity and trust, seeing unexpected events as opportunities for growth. She also created the Vet Life Academy to help others navigate unpredictable situations and become creators of their own well-bein...

Mar 16, 202410 minEp. 176

#175: Cultivating a Spiritual Connection in Vet Med

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the role of spirituality in veterinary medicine and the importance of reconnecting with animals to counteract the demands of the profession. Dr. Wise discusses her personal journey and how her connection with animals evolved over time. She emphasizes the need for veterinary professionals to tap into the spiritual aspect of their work and shares that by doing so they increase their ability to find joy and fulfillment in their profession. Topics Include: th...

Mar 13, 202421 minEp. 175

#174 The Formula for Effective Reflection

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise provides a formula for effective reflection. The formula involves asking three questions, and then considering those questions through the lens of actions, priorities, and emotions in order to full understand one's experience. Dr. Wise applies emphasizes the importance of intentional reflection as a tool in creating positive change and breaking the cycles that result in busyness but no meaningful movement toward our goals and dreams. Music Credit: Music by Lesfm fr...

Mar 11, 202411 minEp. 174

#173 Chasing Confidence

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses chasing confidence and its impact on our lives. She shares how many people seek external validation to feel confident and points out this habit has been reinforced by educational systems. An unintended consequence: A constant, conditional pursuit of worthiness. Dr. Wise challenges the idea that confidence is something we have to work hard to create, suggesting that it is a decision we can make to be confident in ourselves first. The importance of not tyin...

Mar 06, 202415 minEp. 173

#172 Staying The Course

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise reflects on the importance of staying the course and not giving up, even when faced with challenges. Dr. Wise encourages listeners to remember that their goals and desires are possible and not to let external circumstances discourage them. She emphasizes the need to hold onto one's vision and keep going. She acknowledges the challenges in the field of veterinary medicine and urges listeners to keep trying and to believe in the possibility of success. She encourages...

Mar 01, 20249 minEp. 172

#171 Choosing Vs. Deciding

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the difference between choosing and deciding, emphasizing that choosing opens up unlimited possibilities while deciding often limits options. She encourages listeners to make empowered choices, recognize where they have limited themselves in a binary decision, and to explore the fears that hold them back from choosing boldly. Key Takeaways: Choosing opens up unlimited opportunities Deciding limits possibilities Fear causes us to limiting our choices Empow...

Feb 28, 202412 minEp. 171

#170 Refusing Service

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the topic of refusing service to clients who come to veterinary hospitals while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Dr. Wise emphasizes the importance of utilizing the ability to refuse service and shares a personal experience where a client who was chemically altered came into her hospital. She discusses how this situation is becoming more common in today's society and raises concerns about the impact of client's potential inability to make decision...

Feb 23, 202414 minEp. 170

#169 Can You Really Change Your Life?

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise explores the idea of whether it is possible to change one's life. She emphasizes the importance of making small decisions every day to achieve lasting change and encourage listeners to believe that change is possible. Dr. Wise discusses the brain's resistance to change and the need to let go of limiting beliefs, self-judgment, and societal expectations. She concludes by reiterating that listeners have the power to change their lives in any way they desire and invit...

Feb 21, 202412 minEp. 169

#168 Prioritizing YOU!

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the importance of prioritizing oneself, particularly in the demanding profession of veterinary medicine. Dr. Wise emphasizes the significance of self-care for maintaining mental and emotional wellbeing, and challenges the notion that prioritizing oneself is selfish or irresponsible. She encourages listeners to focus on their own desires and interests, rather than seeking validation from others, and emphasizes the importance of following one's own path and...

Feb 16, 202414 minEp. 168

#167 What Are You Committed To?

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise reflects on her 50th birthday, and encourages self-reflection. She poses the question, "What are you committed to?" and shares her own experiences of realizing commitments that did not align with her goals and dreams. She emphasize the importance of self-awareness and intentional decision-making, and shares the origin of the Vet Life Academy program, which focuses on self-awareness and creating a different life. Dr. Wise highlights the tendency for people to be com...

Feb 14, 202413 minEp. 167

#166 Life Purpose

In this episode Dr. Cari Wise discusses the concept of life purpose and its relationship to veterinary medicine. Dr. Wise emphasizes the importance of separating one's career in veterinary medicine from their true identity as a human being and offers resources to support personal and professional growth. She encourages veterinary professionals to disentangle their career definition from their actual identity and not to limit themselves with specific labels. Resources discussed in this episode El...

Feb 10, 202414 minEp. 166

#165 Tackling The Fear Of Negotiation

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the fear of negotiation when looking for a new job. She emphasizes the importance of approaching the job search and negotiation process with clarity and confidence. Job seekers are encouraged to dispel the myth that they have to accept any offer and instead approach interviews with curiosity and a clear understanding of what they want in a position. Dr. Wise advises job seekers to take the time to identify their preferences and deal breakers before going ...

Feb 07, 202427 minEp. 165

#164 Energy Vampires: How Individual Anxiety Impacts Teams

"Energy vampires" are individuals who drain our energy and affect our emotions. As a veterinary professional, Dr. Cari Wise understands the significant impact anxiety and stress can have on those around us. In this episode, she shares her personal experience as a practice owner and how it affected her interactions with her staff. It is crucial to recognize and understand the impact of anxiety and stress. She provides tips for veterinary professionals, including embracing imperfection, seeking su...

Feb 03, 202435 minEp. 164

#163 Getting Fired

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the topic of getting fired as a veterinary professional. Dr. Wise emphasizes that getting fired does not mean that the individual is bad or not cut out for the job, and encourages individuals to approach the situation with curiosity and compassion, seeking to understand the experience and learn from it. The importance of organizations providing clear employee expectations and regular feedback in the workplace is highlighted, as well as the role of leaders...

Jan 31, 202430 minEp. 163

#162 Navigating The Unexpected

In this episode Dr. Cari Wise shares about her experiences with unexpected events throughout the week. She discusses how unexpected events are a normal part of veterinary medicine and emphasizes the importance of recognizing that fear is often the root cause of the desire to control. Dr. Wise suggests focusing on emotional wellbeing and choosing our reactions to unexpected events. Despite the chaos and unpredictability, she explains how it is possible to maintain calm and provide good service to...

Jan 27, 202413 minEp. 162

#161 The Most Important Boundary You'll Ever Set

In this episode, Dr. Cari Wise discusses the importance of setting boundaries, particularly with oneself. This boundary pertains to where one allows their focus to rest when they are not at work. Dr. Wise explains that many veterinary professionals tend to obsessively think about cases and events from work, which can lead to negative emotions and anxiety. She shares that it is crucial to set a mental boundary to prevent one's focus from dwelling on things that cannot be controlled in the present...

Jan 24, 202417 minEp. 161
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