In this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon sits down with Dr. Mark Helfat, author of The Happy Veterinarian and founder of Veterinary Practice Transition. Dr. Helfat shares his journey into veterinary medicine, the value of independent practices, and how these businesses contribute to their communities. He also provides strategies for overcoming the challenges of selling practices, including NOLO practices, and debunks myths around ownership. The conversation addresses the corporatization of veterinary medicine and its impact on the profession. Dr. Helfat offers practical advice for valuing practices, securing financing, and ensuring smooth ownership transitions while maintaining the profession’s integrity. Dr. Helfat’s book, The Happy Veterinarian, is filled with actionable tips for thriving in veterinary careers. His website, Veterinary Practice Transition, connects buyers and sellers with tools for successful practice transitions. He also encourages listeners to explore his editorial, "Saving the Soul of Veterinary Medicine," on VIN for a deeper understanding of preserving independent practices. Tune in now! Listen on your favorite podcast platform or visit ivetinarians.org. Don’t miss this episode packed with insights, stories, and resources for veterinarians at every career stage! Full episode here: https://youtu.be/uSlruyhlfLA #VeterinaryMedicine #IndependentPractice #PracticeOwnership #VeterinaryTransitions #VetCare #TheVeterinaryInsider #VetSuccess

00:00 - Navigating the Transition: Self-Care for Retiring Veterinarians 02:51 - The Journey to Veterinary Medicine: Passion and Purpose 06:12 - The Impact of Corporatization on Veterinary Practices 09:03 - Corporate vs. Independent Practices: What Can Be Learned? 11:48 - The Future of Veterinary Medicine: Trends and Predictions 15:08 - Facilitating Practice Transitions: A New Approach 18:12 - Understanding NOLO Practices: Opportunities and Challenges 21:06 - Advice for New Owners: Starting Strong 24:00 - Emotional Aspects of Selling a Practice 26:56 - Success Stories and Mentorship in Veterinary Medicine 30:08 - Finding Happiness in Veterinary Careers: Alternatives to Ownership The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

In this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, host Dr. Bonnie Bragdon is joined by Ashlee Moore, Loan Officer at First Financial Bank, to demystify the world of veterinary lending. If you've ever wondered about the intricacies of SBA loans, how to evaluate a practice for purchase, or how interest rates impact your borrowing potential—this conversation is for you! Ashlee shares her insights into financing veterinary practices, from understanding cash flow to spotting red flags in business valuations. They also explore expansion opportunities, pet resort investments, and how First Financial Bank supports independent veterinary practices. Whether you're considering ownership, expanding your clinic, or seeking financing tips, this episode provides expert advice and actionable steps to help you make informed decisions. Ready to learn the vital signs of a healthy veterinary practice and how to secure funding? Click here for the full episode: https://youtu.be/OB8IeMz5GWA #VeterinaryCare #PracticeOwnership #VeterinaryLending #PetHealth #VeterinaryPodcast #SBAloans #IndependentVeterinaryPractice #PetResorts #VeterinaryGrowth #FinancialPlanning

0:00 – Preview of Episode 0:20 – Introduction of Guest Ashlee Moore 2:28 – Inspiration to Become a Loan Officer 4:26 – Understanding Key Financial Metrics for Veterinarians 6:39 – Incident of Running a Personal Expense in the Business 7:46 - The Importance of Financial Documentation 9:40 – Checking and Verifying Numbers 10:44 – Reaching Out for Financial Leader 13:11 - Evaluating Practice Value and Seller Financing 16:00 – Navigating the Loan Process for Practice Acquisition 21:35 – Expanding Business Opportunities in Veterinary Medicine 23:56 – Exploring SBA Loans vs. Conventional Loans 26:12 – Current Trends in Veterinary Financing 28:36 – Right Time to Pay the Licensed Appraiser 31:47 – Advice for New Practice Owners 34:29 – Advice for Current Practice Owners 37:03 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

Dr. Bonnie Bragdon is back with another insightful discussion on The Veterinary Insider Podcast, the go-to podcast for every veterinarian passionate about keeping veterinary medicine independent and thriving. In this episode, Dr. Bragdon sits down with Aaron Oaks, CEO of United Pet Care, and Heidi Sirota, Strategic Growth Advisor and Pet Insurance expert, to discuss transformative strategies for improving access to veterinary care. The conversation dives deep into critical topics like: Breaking down barriers to pet care access, The power of strategic discounting for veterinarians, Marketing segmentation and pricing transparency, and Solutions to help pet parents plan financially for their pets’ health This episode sheds light on the growing challenges of pet care affordability and offers practical, innovative solutions to help veterinarians build stronger relationships with pet parents while driving business success. Listen to the full episode now! https://youtu.be/OSm7_p5IpGs Don’t miss this enlightening conversation, brought to you by United Pet Care and the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association. Check out IVPA’s amazing benefits at iVeterinarians.org. #VeterinaryPodcast #PetCareAccess #IndependentVeterinary #PetParenting #UnitedPetCare #VetPracticeGrowth #PetInsurance #SpectrumOfCare #PetHealth 0:00 – Preview of Episode 0:24 – Introduction of Guests Aaron oaks and Heidi Sirota 1:20 – Strategic Discounting in Veterinary Services 3:03 – Understanding Customer Segmentation in Veterinary Care 6:10 – Consumer Perspectives on Veterinary Pricing 10:10 – The Impact of COVID on Pet Ownership and Care 12:11 – Barriers to Pet Care and the Shelter Crisis 13:54 – Incentivizing Pet Care Through Strategic Discounting 16:07 – United Pet Care's Role in Veterinary Practices 19:40 – Proactive Planning for Pet Care Costs 23:11 – Data-Driven Insights for Veterinary Practices 25:33 – Understanding Customer Lifetime Value in Veterinary Care 27:13 – Differentiating Insurance, Discounts, and Membership Programs 30:37 – The Role of Subscription and Wellness Plans 32:51 – Financing Options and Their Impact on Pet Care 36:22 – Navigating Digital Marketing for Veterinary Practices 38:41 – Improving Price Conversations with Clients 43:27 – Building Relationships Through Veterinary Care 45:41 – Streamlining Operations for Veterinary Practices 48:25 – Closing and Guests Contact Details The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

New Episode Alert! On the next Veterinary Insider Podcast, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon dives into the world of finance and feline adoration with special guest Michelle Musacchio from Fit Money CPA. If you hate accounting but love cats, you won’t want to miss this enlightening discussion. Michelle shares her expertise on how independent veterinary practices can thrive financially, covering topics like forecasting, cash flow, budgeting, and taking the fear out of managing your practice’s finances. She also delves into why understanding accounting isn’t just for practice owners—it’s vital for associates, too! With plenty of cat-centric banter and real-world advice, this episode is equal parts fun and informative. Learn how Fit Money CPA’s tools and strategies, like Hindsight, Insight, and Foresight, can help you manage your practice, plan for growth, and achieve your financial dreams—all while staying true to the independent veterinary spirit. Tune in this week to gain valuable insights, practical tips, and a few laughs along the way. Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/GtaViNuELBM Check it out on your favorite podcast platform or visit iVeterinarians.org. #VeterinaryPodcast #IndependentVet #AccountingMadeEasy #VetFinance #VeterinaryLeadership #CatsRule 0:00 – Preview of the Episode 0:42 – Introduction of Guest Michelle Musacchio 1:55 – Inspiration to become Accountant and Tax Expert 3:19 – The Importance of Understanding Taxes 3:48 – Talking about Political Candidates about Taxes 06:17 – Inflation and Its Impact on Veterinary Practices 09:15 – The Role of Accounting in Decision Making 10:54 – Understanding Financial Statements 14:51 – Cash Flow and Its Significance 15:51 – The Importance of Financial Planning 17:35 – Hindsight and Foresight Programs 20:40 – Consequences of Poor Accounting Practices 22:11 – Working with Client that doesn’t Pay Attention to Bookkeeping 24:31 – Integrating QuickBooks with Practice Management Software 25:15 – Moving from Hindsight to Insight 27:49 – Foresight: Planning for the Future 31:51 – Managing the Life Cycle of a Practice 36:31 – Setting Financial Goals 40:23 – The Value of Ownership in Veterinary Practices 43:15 – The Importance of Financial Literacy for Associates 45:27 – The Benefits of Independent Practices 47:56 – Conclusion and Resources The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

"If I allowed someone who barely knew me to define my potential, I’d be stuck in a role someone else thought was best for me." In this thought-provoking episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon sits down with Dr. Christie Cornelius, DVM, MBA, to discuss pivotal career decisions, the challenges of selling her veterinary practice, and the importance of independent veterinary medicine. Dr. Cornelius shares insights on maintaining resilience and boldly moving into new chapters, all while empowering her team. Hear Dr. Cornelius’s thoughts on self-trust, mentorship, and the future of independent veterinary practices as they navigate a landscape of increasing corporate consolidation. An episode packed with wisdom for independent veterinarians and anyone passionate about leadership in animal healthcare. Watch the full episode here https://youtu.be/gTHyWE4Gzzw #VeterinaryInsider #LeadershipInVetMed #IndependentVeterinary #VeterinaryPodcast #VeterinarianOwned #IVPA #VeterinaryLeadership #BoldLeadership #PracticeOwnership #ChiefVetX

0:00 – Preview of Episode 0:22 – Introduction of Guest Dr. Christie Cornelius 1:19 – Selling your Practice 2:09 – Emotions 2:53 – Selling Practice to a Corporation 3:42 – Approached Personal Lawyer 4:31 – Trusting Instincts 5:54 – Planning Exit 7:52 – Expanding the Ideas of Emotions 8:46 – The Value of an MBA in Veterinary Leadership 11:55 – Empowering Veterinary Leaders through Chief VetX 14:09 – Having Good Consultant 15:26 – The Practices in a Corporate World 16:27 – Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association (IVPA) 17:15 – Building a Legacy in Veterinary Medicine 19:15 – Hope of the Future Veterinary 20:27 – American Veterinary Medical Association 21:57 – New Uses of Technology 23:43 – The Importance of Community and Customer Focus 25:15 – Value Proposition 27:20 – Breaking the Habit of Seeking Permission and Validation 28:44 – Mindfulness and Leadership Development 29:48 – Steps of Mindfulness Practices 31:35 – Proudest Moment 33:37 – Leadership 34:39 – Finding Right Mentorship 36:27 – Starting Hospice Practice 38:04 – Connecting with People 39:38 – The Path to Executive Leadership in Veterinary Medicine 42:11 – Closing The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

In this episode, host Dr. Bonnie Bragdon interviews Dr. Lisa Beagan, a tech-savvy veterinarian and founder of YourVetBox. They discuss how AI and tech innovations are reshaping vet practices, YourVetBox’s mission to streamline pet triage, and the importance of mentorship and client relationships in a world of corporate pet care.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Began shares practical insights for veterinarians on leveraging tech without losing the personal touch that keeps clients coming back. This episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about keeping veterinary care independent and innovative.

Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Tz18tGvzInI

Learn more: YourVetBox.com | iveterinarians.org

#VeterinaryInsider #IndependentVet #VetTech #YourVetBox #AIinVetCare #PetCareTech #VeterinaryMedicine #VetLife

Have you ever wondered what it takes to ensure safe travels for animals by air? On this episode of The Veterinary Insider Podcast, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon talks with Dr. Nelva Bryant, founder of When Pets Fly, about the ins and outs of animal transport and the importance of consulting with a veterinarian before flying with your pet. Dr. Bryant, an expert in animal transport, offers guidance on pet travel, including health certificates and ensuring your pet's safety throughout flights. Listen in to learn about this interesting area and how to keep your pet safe and comfortable while traveling here: https://youtu.be/5WevB5mmEXM #PetTravel #AnimalTransport #AnimalWelfare #VeterinaryPodcast #WhenPetsFly #TheVeterinaryInsiderPodcast The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success. The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.

Have you ever felt like a square peg in a round hole?

This week on The Veterinary Insider Podcast hosted by Bonnie Bragdon, Dr. William Trancredi, Chief of Staff at Old Ridge Veterinary Hospital shares his journey navigating the complexities of corporate vs. independent veterinary practice. From feeling undervalued to the thrill of owning his destiny, this episode is packed with insights.

Tune in to hear his candid take on finding the RIGHT fit for YOU in veterinary medicine here: https://youtu.be/uNKpknQAHFg

0:00 - Start of Episode and Introduction to William Tancredi

2:02 - The Corporatization of Veterinary Medicine

4:49 - Vets and Client Happiness

7:48 - How does William Communicate with Clients?

9:30 - How did Dr. Tancredi get comfortable with Conflict?

13:00 - What is Williams best Google Review?

13:58 - What did it take to become a practice owner?

17:50 - Dr. Tancredi and dealing with the unknown

18:48 - Advice for Vets who were trained to be perfectionists

20:58 - A Clear vision of success

23:40 - How did Dr. Trancredi transition from school to work?

24:57 - Addicted to being the hero

26:30 - Where is Dr. Tancredi's practice located?

26:50 - How do you find time to learn more?

30:20 - AI in Veterinary Practice

34:08 - Emotional Work

39:09 - The AI and Physicians Study

43:55 - What do you call yourself?

45:22 - Is AI Sterile and Clinical?

46:50 - Advice for Veterinarians who do not like new technology

48:31 - The Best Tech platform to use

49:50 - Advice for Vet Students

50:15 - Tips for Vets

51:08 - Advice for Vets who just want to be employed

53:28 - Closing Thoughts

54:55 - End of Episode

#VetLife #PracticeOwnership #VeterinaryPodcast #VeterinaryInsider #FindYourFit #VetMed #CareerChoices

The podcast for veterinarians who own their medicine, their profession, and their success.

The Veterinary Insider podcast is powered by the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and hosted by co-founder and immediate past president, Dr. Bonnie Bragdon. The IVPA is the only association exclusively dedicated to keeping veterinary practice ownership a sustainable lifestyle and career option. Member benefits include discounts on products and services that drive practice profit, as well as opportunities to change the course of the veterinary profession.