The Vet Files

Join us for Dr. Moriah McCauley's advice to veterinary students and young grads on strategic planning of externships and how to seek great mentorship!

What does it really take to own and operate a veterinary practice?In this episode of The Vet Files, we sit down with Dr. Mike Walker to talk about veterinary practice ownership, the business side of veterinary medicine, and what it takes to build a successful career beyond the exam room. We discuss the importance of interpersonal connections, collaborating with fellow veterinarians and coworkers, and recognizing when to ask questions or simply say, “I don’t know.” Because being a great veterinarian isn’t just about what you know, it’s also about how you communicate, work with others, and continue learning along the way.

In this episode of The Vet Files, we’re joined by Dr. Marisa Tellez to talk crocodile conservation, the complex relationship between people and wildlife, and the power of mentorship in shaping careers in animal science and conservation.From understanding crocodilians and their role in the natural world to navigating the challenges of human-wildlife interactions, Dr. Tellez shares her perspective on what it takes to make a meaningful impact in conservation. We also dive into mentorship, career paths, and the people who help shape the way we approach our work and the world around us.

What happens when treatment is no longer about finding a cure?In this episode of The Vet Files, we’re talking about palliative and end-of-life care in veterinary medicine and what it really means to care for a patient when the goal shifts from treating the disease to maximizing comfort and quality of life.We discuss pain management, hospice and palliative care, quality-of-life conversations, navigating difficult decisions with clients, and where euthanasia fits into end-of-life medicine. We also talk about the emotional side of caring for patients and families through one of the hardest parts of the human-animal bond: saying goodbye.Because “there’s nothing more we can do” doesn’t have to mean there’s nothing left to do.Whether you’re a veterinary student, veterinarian, pet owner, or just someone interested in the conversations happening beyond the exam room, we hope this episode gives you a different perspective on what it means to care for an animal through the very end.

We made it through first year of veterinary school, and now it’s time to debrief.In this episode of The Vet Files, McCaelyn and Gretel are joined by Braeden from North Carolina State University for a conversation about surviving first year, what we learned along the way, and what we’re expecting as we head into second year.We’re talking about the biggest challenges of first year, the classes that humbled us, what we wish we knew before starting vet school, how our experiences compare across LSU, Mizzou, and NC State.

We’re back with a good old-fashioned catch-up! In this episode of The Vet Files, we’re chatting about everything we’ve been up to this summer. From externships and international experiences to learning about different cultures and their relationships with animals. We also talk about the importance of stepping away from vet school, finding ways to fill our cups, and making time for the things that make us feel like ourselves outside of school.

In vet school, we learn the gold standard, the ideal diagnostic workup, treatment plan, and patient care. But what happens when real life gets in the way?In this episode of The Vet Files, we’re talking about the gap between what we learn in the classroom and what is actually feasible in practice. We discuss financial limitations, client preferences, limited resources, time constraints, patient compliance, and those moments when you have to make the best decision rather than the perfect one.How do you balance evidence-based medicine with what is realistically possible for the patient, client, and practice? And where do we draw the line between compromising care and practicing good medicine?

In File #019, we're joined by Dr. Jessica Stroupe, a rural mixed animal veterinarian, clinic owner, and Missouri Veterinary Medical Association delegate, to talk about what it takes to lead both inside and outside the clinic.We dive into building a positive clinic culture, the realities of practice ownership, supporting your team, and why getting involved in organized veterinary medicine matters. Dr. Stroupe also shares her journey into rural practice and the lessons she's learned along the way.Whether you're a veterinary student, new graduate, or practicing veterinarian, this episode is full of honest conversations and practical advice on creating a career that makes an impact.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and let us know your favorite takeaway in the comments!

REPOST for audio quality In our very first episode of The Vet Files, we’re diving into our pre-vet journeys—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From the struggles of late night study sessions to navigating the unpredictable world of veterinary school admissions, we’re sharing what we wish we knew along the way.If you're a pre-vet student or aspiring to join the field of veterinary medicine, this episode is for you! We’ll share our personal experiences, offer advice for navigating the pre-vet journey, and give insight into what it really takes to get into vet school.🎧 Tune in to hear stories of perseverance, mistakes, and the lessons we’ve learned (so you don’t have to!).

Dr. Dan Thurston’s journey to becoming a vet is anything but traditional. From marine mammal trainer to aspiring equine surgeon, he’s taken a winding road filled with unexpected turns. What matters most is the resilience you build along the way. It’s normal to doubt yourself when you don’t fit the mold. Remember, success isn’t linear!The lessons learned from career shifts can be invaluable. It’s about finding what truly resonates with you, no matter how long it takes.