Success Stories & Lessons Learned: Aaron Shaw, OTR/L, CHT, CSCS
In this episode of The VetMed Mind, hosts Shawn McVey and Rachel Teichberg sit down with Aaron Shaw, whose mission is to help veterinary professionals build durability for the long haul. As founder of the Vetspan Collective and VP of Operations at Canine Arthritis Resources and Education, Aaron blends clinical science with real‑world, clinic-ready strategies that go far beyond “eat better and exercise.”Together they explore the often-overlooked physical toll of vet med, static postures, awkward restraint, heavy lifting, repetitive strain, and how these stressors compound emotional burnout and decision fatigue. Aaron makes the case for preparing like athletes do: strength training, mobility work, and smart ergonomics that make practice “harder than the game,” so the workday feels more manageable.You’ll get practical, immediately usable tips:Break-room nutrition swaps to avoid sugar crashes (think Greek yogurt, fruit + nut butter, cheese sticks, pre-made wraps)Simple culture shifts and buddy systems to gamify movement and accountabilitySafer lifting, hinging, and posture cues that protect backs, shoulders, and handsSleep hygiene you can start tonight: screen curfews, cooler rooms, darker spaces, and intentional wind-down routinesAaron also shares how the Vetspan Collective community offers videos, PDFs, and toolkits, plus deeper-dive courses and coaching for clinics ready to lead a wellness culture change. If you want your team to feel stronger, hurt less, and thrive longer, this episode is your playbook.#VeterinaryMedicine #PracticeManagement #WorkplaceWellness #InjuryPrevention #Leadership #vgpvet #veterinarygrowthpartners #aaronshaw #vetmedmindpodcast
