AAEP Practice Life

In this episode of the AAEP Practice Life podcast, co-hosts Travis Boston and Jessica Dunbar discuss the impact of emerging technologies in equine veterinary practice with guests from the Emerging Technology Committee, Drs. Mike Pownall, Laura Stokes-Greene and Kathy Klein. They explore the role of technology in improving efficiency, client communication, and patient care, while also addressing the legal and ethical considerations surrounding AI use. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing among veterinarians to navigate the rapidly evolving tech landscape. The Facebook Emerging Technology page referenced in the podcast can be found at https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1Krz4C88is/. The page is open to AAEP members. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

(Note: the deadline for submitting scientific papers for the AAEP Convention is March 1, not March 15 as mentioned in the podcast.) In this episode of AAEP's Practice Life podcast, hosts Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston engage with AAEP leadership, including David Foley, Sarah Reuss, and Eric Mueller. They discuss the roles and responsibilities of AAEP leaders, reflect on the past convention, and outline future strategic plans. The conversation highlights the importance of member engagement, educational offerings, and advocacy efforts within the equine veterinary community. The leaders share insights on how to get involved and the various resources available to members, emphasizing the AAEP's commitment to supporting equine health and veterinary professionals. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

In this episode of Practice Life, co-hosts Travis Boston and Jessica Dunbar engage with our Business News Hour presenters — Drs. Shane Baird, Stacey Cordivano and Becky Ruemmler — for a recap of their 2025 AAEP Convention presentation. They explore the current state of the veterinary economy, highlighting that while there are challenges, the situation is not as dire as previously predicted. The conversation shifts to the evolving financial landscape for early-career veterinarians, noting a significant increase in starting salaries, and the importance of timely invoicing to improve revenue. The episode also delves into non-monetary compensation, legislative changes affecting the profession, and the critical issue of burnout among equine practitioners, emphasizing the need for better support systems and benefits packages. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join Practice Life co-hosts Drs. Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston as they chat with AAEP Convention attendees about the emotional rewards and practical challenges of working in horse medicine. Multiple veterinarians share that their passion is fueled by the unique bond with horses, the success of their patients, and long-term client relationships. Ultimately, you'll hear practical reflections about professional sustainability in the equine industry and how it relies on balancing high-level medical care with personal well-being and community support. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Content warning: this podcast contains frank and open discussions of substance use disorder and paths to recovery. AAEP Practice Life hosts Travis Boston and Jessica Dunbar introduce an episode focused on substance use disorder among veterinarians, an issue they highlight as sensitive and important for reducing stigma. They interview two veterinarians in recovery, Dr. Matt Moskosky and Dr. Philip Richmond, who share deeply personal, emotional stories detailing their experiences with addiction, the path to sobriety, the challenges faced within the veterinary profession, and the vital role of support systems and Physicians Health Programs (PHP/PRN) in their healing. The conversation emphasizes that addiction is common among medical professionals, not a moral failure, and encourages listeners to seek help using resources like the VIN Foundation's Vets4Vets program. Resources: VIN Foundation Vets4Vets: https://vinfoundation.org/resources/vets4vets/ Federation of State Physician Health Programs, Inc.: https://www.fsphp.org/ Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/ Recovery Research Institute: https://www.recoveryanswers.org/ Our guests' emails shared with permission: Dr. Matt Moskosky - [email protected] Dr. Phillip Richmond - [email protected] Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

This month, Practice Life podcast hosts Drs. Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston chat with Dr. Casey Cromer about the critical topic of inter-generational communication within the equine veterinary profession, covering interactions with colleagues, staff, and clients. Dr. Cromer provides a breakdown of different communication preferences, values, and characteristics associated with the Silent Generation, Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these generational differences—such as the Silent Generation's preference for formal, face-to-face communication versus Gen Z's preference for short, visual information—to improve workplace dynamics and client care, highlighting that effective communication is paramount to successful veterinary practice. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join AAEP Practice Life co-hosts Drs. Travis Boston and Jessica Dunbar as they speak with John Chalk, a CPA, lawyer, and certified financial planner specializing in equine veterinary finance. The discussion centers on various financial topics relevant to equine practitioners across their careers, including personal financial management for new graduates focused on student loan repayment and avoiding "lifestyle creep," and mid-career planning that balances debt repayment with saving for practice ownership. In addition, the conversation addresses business financial management and the complexities and long-term necessity of succession planning for practice owners nearing retirement. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join us for this podcast episode of "AAEP Practice Life" featuring veterinarians discussing the challenges and strategies of practicing equine medicine in extreme weather conditions. Hosted by Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston, the show includes insights from three guests working in varied climates: Dr. Vicky Gnadt from Wisconsin (cold), Dr. Elizabeth Gorrell from South Carolina (hot), and Dr. Angie Yates from Florida (hot/humid). They share practical tips for staying comfortable and safe, such as proper clothing and hydration, and discuss modifying work schedules and delaying certain procedures based on temperature and local acclimatization of horses. The episode also touches upon weather-related changes in common equine diseases and the impact on veterinary equipment, highlighting the importance of adaptability and personal well-being in the field. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join Practice Life co-hosts Drs. Travis Boston and Jessica Dunbar as they discuss the onboarding process for new equine veterinarians with guests Dr. Jesse Tyma and Dr. Katy Sullivan. The conversation focuses on strategies for practices to effectively integrate new associates and interns, emphasizing the importance of clear expectations, dedicated mentorship, and psychological safety. It also highlights the responsibilities of new hires in seeking opportunities for growth and providing feedback. The podcast also explores how to bridge skill gaps, the significance of communication for success, and provides valuable advice for long-term career satisfaction in veterinary medicine, including the importance of setting realistic goals and finding community support. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

This podcast episode from "Practice Life," presented by the American Association of Equine Practitioners and supported by Boehringer Ingelheim, centers on strategies for achieving work-life balance in equine veterinary practice. Host Jessica Dunbar, a practice owner and veterinarian, speaks with three other equine veterinarians -- Dr. Maureen Sutter, Dr. Amanda McCleery, and Dr. Katie Larson -- about their diverse practice models and personal approaches to managing their demanding careers. The discussion covers practical aspects like work schedules, emergency on-call systems, time management techniques including delegation and remote support staff, and setting professional boundaries. The veterinarians also share insights into their self-care routines and personal activities that help them rejuvenate outside of work, emphasizing the importance of finding a sustainable and fulfilling professional and personal life. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join co-hosts Travis Boston and Jessica Dunbar on this insightful episode of 'Practice Life,' where they explore the evolving economic climate affecting equine veterinary practices. With special guests Dr. Amy Daley and Dr. Julia Petersen, they delve into the challenges and opportunities brought about by recent changes in the veterinary landscape. This episode sheds light on the importance of balancing business acumen with veterinary care, especially in the face of financial pressures. The discussion covers diverse perspectives, from group practice dynamics to the experience of solo practitioners, offering valuable insights for equine veterinarians navigating this period of transition. Discover practical tips and advice on maintaining practice profitability, leveraging new technologies for efficiency, and the significance of delivering exceptional service to retain clients. Whether you're a seasoned vet or new to the field, this episode offers guidance on weathering economic fluctuations while ensuring the best care for equine patients. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

In this episode of Practice Life, hosted by Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston, the spotlight is on the evolving landscape of veterinary medicine. The hosts are joined by Dr. Will French and Dr. Ashley Morgan to discuss the pressing issue of mid-level practitioners in Colorado and the broader implications for equine veterinary care nationwide. Furthermore, the episode covers how organized veterinary medicine advocates for practitioners, offering insights into policy shaping at both state and federal levels. Both guests bring their wealth of experience to the table, shedding light on the significance of being actively involved in advocacy to sustain and enhance the quality of veterinary practice. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join AAEP Practice Life hosts Drs. Jessica Dunbar and Mike Pownall as they chat with Drs. Mindy Smith and Beau Whitaker, both recipients of the AAEP Good Works For Horses award. The share the benefits, and a few caveats, of donating services and products to benefit equine charities. Good Works for Horses, sponsored by AAEP Educational Partner Zoetis, honors AAEP-member practitioners whose volunteer efforts are having a positive impact on the equine community. You can read about Dr. Smith's and Dr. Whitaker's awards here: Dr. Mindy Smith: https://aaep.org/post/dr-mindy-smith-honored-as-aaep-good-works-recipient-for-august/ Dr. Beau Whitaker: https://aaep.org/post/dr-beau-whitaker-honored-as-aaep-good-works-recipient-for-june/ Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

In this episode of Practice Life, hosts Dr. Travis Boston and Dr. Jessica Dunbar sit down with AAEP President Dr. Tracy Turner and President-Elect Dr. Sarah Reuss to discuss the organization's current initiatives, challenges, and future direction. The conversation covers everything from the success of the 2024 convention in Orlando to advocacy efforts, member engagement, and upcoming educational programs. The leaders also address important industry challenges like mid-career veterinarian retention and the emerging issue of social license to operate. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join Practice Life co-hosts Drs. Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston as they chat with two of the hosts of the 2024 AAEP Convention Business News Hour, Drs. Jean-Yin Tan and Shane Baird. The recap of the News Hour covers a wide-ranging series of topics related to the equine veterinary profession, including growth, engagement, new business models, legal issues, work/life balance, and more. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join Practice Life co-hosts Drs. Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston at the 2024 AAEP Convention in Orlando, Florida, as they did a speed run through the convention halls and asked fellow practitioners two questions: 1) What was your veterinary highlight of the year? and 2) What's one piece of non-clinical advice you wish you had received upon graduation from yet school that would have made your career easier? Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

What’s better, solo or group practice? Certainly, there’s no right answer, but there are considerations that will help practitioners find the right fit. Join podcast co-hosts Drs. Mike Pownall and Travis Boston as they chat with two solo practitioners – Caitlin Daly and Bonnie Kibbie – and two group practice members – Shannon Lockhart and Singen Elliott – about the value of each type of practice. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/

Join the Practice Life co-hosts Jessica Dunbar and Travis Boston as they learn more about AAEP's Foundation for the Host from podcast guests Leslie Easterwood, chair of the Foundation Development Council, and Paul Ransdell, Foundation Senior Development Officer. Sponsored by: AAEP Practice Life is sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim. Visit them at https://bi-animalhealth.com/equine/