Real Talk Unleashed

Join us in this episode as we delve into Walter's extraordinary life, his passion for education, the impact of his viral content, and his hopes for the future of veterinary medicine. About Walter Brown, BS. RVTg VTS (ECC) Walter Brown is an Emergency and Critical Care specialty veterinary technologist, social media public figure, influencer, comedian, and founder of SKINNI GO LIVE LLC.Walter combines his background in veterinary medicine with comedy to bring education and relief to veterinary professionals worldwide. He has millions of views and continues to create viral content. While devoting his time to SKINNI GO LIVE LLC, Walter is a veterinary technologist program liaison for United Veterinary Care. He cultivates relationships with veterinary technology programs and provides students with opportunities and resources to pave the way for future career interests. In addition, Walter has plans to develop supplemental learning courses and seminars for veterinary technology students, pet parents, and kids of all ages. His ultimate dream is to create veterinary assistant programs for inner-city schools and charter schools in low-income areas. Walter received his veterinary technology degree from Fort Valley State University and was academically trained in emergency and critical care at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine. In addition to social media influencing and education, he is an avid arachnid hobbyist. He enjoys the life stages and development of tarantulas and has a collection of over ten species.

About the Episode: In this enlightening episode of Real Talk Unleashed, we are privileged to engage in a deeply insightful conversation with Trish Haak, a licensed clinical veterinary social worker. Join us as we delve into the heart of veterinary social work and its transformative impact on both veterinary professionals and pet owners. As advocates for increased awareness of what the veterinary community is experiencing, we explore with Trish the importance of shedding light on the realities of veterinary medicine. To empower our listeners, Trish offers a wealth of resources for suicide awareness training, and guidance on finding veterinary social workers who can provide support. She shares her own journey to becoming a veterinary social worker, fueled by her own experiences and her passion for nurturing the well-being of both animals and their caregivers. Join us in this incredibly impactful episode as we uncover the profound world of veterinary social work with Trish Haak, and discover the transformative impact it has on veterinary professionals, pets, and pet owners. About Our Guest: Trish Haak is a veterinary clinical social worker located in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital within the VM-CVM to provide support, crisis intervention, grief education, and referrals and resources to animal owners. She works as a member of the veterinary health care team to support difficult decision-making, end-of-life care, and the grieving process. She provides workshops and rounds on wellbeing, effective client support and communication with veterinary students, staff, interns, residents, clinicians, and faculty. She received her Master's of Social Work in Clinical Practice at the University of Washington-Seattle and Veterinary Social Work Certification at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. She is also a Certified Social Worker in Animal Hospice and Palliative Care and a Certified Trauma Treatment Professional. She has provided mental health services within hospital, university, school, and research settings to a wide range of ages. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband, kids, dogs, and chickens, or teaching yoga, running, swimming, and gardening. Resources: https://vetmedbiosci.colostate.edu/argus/ https://hsq.dukehealth.org/tools/ https://jedfoundation.org/resource/signs-your-friend-might-be-struggling-emotionally/ https://veterinarysocialwork.org/ https://qprinstitute.com/ https://www.livingworks.net/asist https://axon.avma.org/page/wellbeing-courses https://www.traumaresourceinstitute.com/crm

In this thought-provoking episode of Real Talk Unleashed, we're joined by the remarkable Dr. Eve Harrison. As a seasoned full-time concierge house call veterinarian in Los Angeles, Dr. Harrison has pioneered the practice of true veterinary concierge medicine, offering personalized care to her patients within the comfort of their own homes. During the episode, Dr. Harrison shares her motivations for pursuing house calls and assisting fellow veterinarians in embarking on their own house call journeys. She discusses the House Call Vet Academy, providing insights into the resources and support it offers to veterinary professionals seeking to transition from clinical practice to relief or house calls. Dr. Harrison also candidly reveals her experiences with corporations in the veterinary industry and the influence that led her to decline corporate sponsorships for her House Call Academy Conference. She provides thought-provoking advice for veterinary students preparing to enter the workforce in the coming years and offers guidance to current veterinarians who may feel disillusioned with the direction of the industry. In this engaging conversation, Dr. Eve Harrison proves to be an inspiring force for change within the veterinary industry, encouraging veterinarians to break free from the constraints of traditional practice and forge their own paths toward fulfillment and success. Resources: www.dreveharrison.com www.thehousecallvetacademy.com https://www.facebook.com/TheHouseCallVetAcademy https://www.instagram.com/the_house_call_vet_academy/ Listen to her podcast: https://pod.link/1604252727 Book recommendation: https://www.amazon.com/If-Betray-These-Words-Clinicians/dp/1586423541

In this inspiring episode of our podcast, we sit down with Dr. Serena Nayee, the founder and executive director of Chapter VIII: Veterinary Inclusion & Intersectionality Initiative, a groundbreaking organization aimed at addressing the lack of inclusion and intersectionality within veterinary medicine. With her perspective as a veterinarian and commitment to marginalized communities, Dr. Nayee shares her personal journey and the experiences that led her to establish Chapter VIII. Join us as we discuss the challenges faced by underrepresented groups in veterinary medicine and the urgent and growing need for accessible and inclusive veterinary care. Dr. Nayee's expertise as a medical director and practice co-owner in the small animal veterinary urgent care sector brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Discover her vision for transforming veterinary medicine through incremental care and inclusive education, making it more representative and accessible to all. Through this thought-provoking conversation, we explore the impact of systemic barriers and the steps we can take to break them down. Dr. Nayee's passion and dedication to creating a more equitable future in veterinary medicine will inspire listeners to consider their own roles in promoting inclusion and diversity within our industry as well as the veterinary care we provide. Tune in to this enlightening episode as we uncover the importance of embracing intersectionality and prioritizing inclusion in veterinary medicine with the remarkable Dr. Serena Nayee. Resources: Website: chapterviii.org Instagram: @chapter_viii Facebook: @chapterviiiboard

In this empowering episode of Real Talk Unleashed, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Tierra Price, an inspiring veterinarian and the founder of BlackDVM Network, a groundbreaking platform that provides support, mentorship, and advocacy for black veterinary professionals. Join us as we delve into Dr. Price's "why" for creating BlackDVM Network and the many resources it provides to it's members. Dr. Price shares her journey, challenges, and triumphs in advocating for support and representation within veterinary medicine. Through heartfelt discussions, we explore the barriers faced by black veterinary professionals and the effects of empowerment and support. Get ready for an inspiring conversation as Dr. Tierra Price leads the charge towards a brighter, more supportive future for black veterinary professionals in the field of veterinary medicine. Resources: Website: www.blackdvmnetwork.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/blackdvmnetwork Mentioned in the episode: Inequality among the Disadvantaged? Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Earnings among Young Men and Women without a College Education: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/23326492221141650 Virginia Tech's deep roots in racism and white supremacy: https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/racial-reckoning-draws-in-namesakes-of-virginia-techs-past/2020/07/11/1bd9cd90-c37f-11ea-8908-68a2b9eae9e0_story.html

In this episode, we will be discussing mental health in veterinary medicine and the Not One More Vet (NOMV) organization. Our special guests, Cassandra Walls and Kelsey Creelman of NOMV, will be joining us to delve into some important questions. We'll explore the story behind how NOMV got started and the impact it has had on the industry. We'll also discuss the difference between compassion fatigue and burnout as well as the resources NOMV has available for those struggling with these issues. As the suicide rate continues to rise in the veterinary industry, we'll also talk about actionable steps that individuals can take to mitigate these challenges. Finally, we'll look to the future and discuss what it will take to change the industry and reduce the suicide rate. Don't miss this insightful conversation on one of, if not the most important topic in our industry right now. Resources: NOMV: http://nomv.org CLEAR Blueprint: https://www.nomv.org/clearblueprint/ Lifeboat: https://www.nomv.org/lifeboat/ Student Support & Mentorship: https://www.nomv.org/students/ Crisis Number List: https://www.nomv.org/crisis-numbers/ NOMV Grants: https://www.nomv.org/apply-for-a-grant/ NOMV's List: https://www.nomv.org/search-listings/?sort=title-asc How To Help: Donate: https://www.nomv.org/donate/ Volunteer: https://www.nomv.org/volunteers/ Shop Merch: https://shop.nomv.org/ If you liked this episode, please like and share it with your colleagues. We'd also love it if you followed us on social media <3 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realtalkunleashed Instagram: http://instagram.com/realtalkunleashed/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/real-talk-unleashed/ Website: https://www.realtalkunleashed.com/

In this episode of Real Talk Unleashed, we discuss pet nutrition and diet-related DCM with Dr. Caitlin Marie, an early career veterinarian and passionate science communicator. Dr. Caitlin shares her motivation for researching this topic and offers valuable recommendations for pet owners. We also address myths about the pet food industry, FDA statements, and diagnostic recommendations. Dr. Caitlin highlights the issue of predatory marketing and shares her work at AllTradesDVM and Science Rehashed. We also discuss the myth that veterinarians are receiving kickbacks from big pet food brands and Dr. Starke wants to know where her 20 years worth of kickbacks are because she has clearly been missing out ;) Join us for this insightful and informative episode on pet nutrition, and be sure to tune in to Real Talk Unleashed for more engaging conversations with industry professionals. If you liked this episode, please give us a 5 star rating and leave us a message. We'd love to hear from you! Newly released data update from the FDA, requested via the FOIA(Freedom of Information Act) Resources in this episode: Dare To Ask WSAVA & AAFCO AllTradesDVM Science Rehashed Connect with Dr. Caitlin Instagram Facebook Connect with Real Talk Unleashed Instagram Facebook

In our latest episode, we sit down with AVMA President Elect, Dr. Rena Carlson, to get the inside scoop on the AVMA's position on non-competes, unionization, and other pressing issues within our industry. From the representation of women in leadership to the controversy surrounding non-competes and unionization, Dr. Carlson provides her insights and personal experiences on these pressing issues and more. Despite the AVMA's silence on some of the more controversial topics, we asked Dr. Carlson the tough questions that veterinary professionals have been waiting for the AVMA to answer. Some of the topics we discuss are: Women in leadership The future of the AVMA and whether they truly represent the interests of the younger generations Veterinary non-competes and Paul Diaz Mentorship (or lack thereof) and Dr. Carlson's position at NVA Unionization Workplace toxicity and the corporatization of our industry Dr. Carlson's thoughts on the way Michele was treated by corporate in the story from episode one Huge thanks to Dr. Carlson for joining us and being open to having this conversation. We're committed to having these candid discussions for the betterment of our industry and while we understand that not everyone is able to be as unleashed, we appreciate their participation and support. Next episode airs on Saturday, April 22nd and features another discussion on Diet Related DCM with Dr. Caitlin Marie. Make sure to follow or subscribe to be notified when new episodes are available and if you liked the episode, please give us a rating and review. As always, thanks for listening and we'll see you next time!

In this highly anticipated episode of Real Talk Unleashed, we sit down with Paul Diaz who has been shaking shit up in the veterinary industry with his journey to end the veterinary non-compete. In this info packed episode we will discuss: do not For more info on ending the veterinary non-compete, visit change.org/endtheveterinarynoncompete Find Paul Diaz on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldiaz123/ Learn more about Offer First at https://www.offerfirst.com As always, thank you for joining us for another episode of Real Talk Unleashed. If you liked the episode, please make sure to give us 5 stars and follow us on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with what's coming next on the podcast. We have lots of exciting guests and announcements coming soon!

Are you wondering about grain-free diets, Diet Associated DCM, and what cardiologists are currently recommending? On this month's episode of Real Talk Unleashed, we sit down with Dr. Emily Suess, a resident in cardiology at CVCA, to discuss: 📄The FDA and cardiologist's latest stance on this hot topic 🔬What's causing increased rates of non-hereditary DCM 🐕What breeds are at a higher risk of different forms of DCM 🌾Grain-free diets and when they are/are not appropriate 👩‍⚕️Dr. Suess' experience as a veterinary student and now a veterinarian 💕 Our advice for veterinary professionals and those considering entering the field For more guidance on the connection between grain-free diets and non-hereditary dilated cardiomyopathy, you can find the FDA's latest statement here: https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/questions-answers-fdas-work-potential-causes-non-hereditary-dcm-dogs Next episode you'll hear us chat with Paul Diaz who has been shaking things up in the veterinary industry with his journey to end the veterinary non-compete. If you loved this episode, please like and follow us, we would appreciate it so much! We also post regularly on Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedin. See you next time! ❤️ Dr. Starke, Michele, and Kaitlynn

Join the Real Talk Unleashed team and special guest, Dr. Niccole Bruno, for the very first episode in our Women in Leadership series. We kick off this amazing episode by discussing Dr. Bruno's path into leadership, whether DEIB education should be mandatory in veterinary schools, how to smash the patriarchy, why representation and diversity are so important, Dr. Bruno's advice to other women and people of color in vetmed, and so much more! Niccole Bruno, DVM is the CEO and Founder of Blendvet, a veterinary hospital certification program in diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging. She is a graduate of Tuskegee University and Cornell University School of Veterinary Medicine. She has worked in private practice for over 15 years, serving in veterinary leadership within her hospitals. Dr. Bruno's decision to pivot into DEIB work and pursue Blendvet stemmed from her lived experiences being underrepresented in the veterinary profession and her desire to shift the culture in veterinary medicine. If you're interested in learning more about Dr. Bruno and Blendvet, visit www.blend.vet Thanks for listening and we'll see you next episode where we talk to Dr. Emily Suess of CVCA about Diet Related DCM!

Real Talk hosts Kaitlynn Scharapowa, Michele Pevahouse, and Dr. Tosha Starke are joined by the President of the National Veterinary Professionals Union, Liz Hughston, to discuss the realities of unionization, how scared corporations are of organization, how they respond to union organizing, as well as a man that was caught injecting cocaine into his dick at work. Just casual.. ya know. Nothing crazy. Unfortunately, no, Abby Wambach is not a member of the Real Talk Unleashed team but we would LOVE to have her and the whole We Can Do Hard Things team on the pod!!! Also we would love to be best friends!! If you're interested in learning more about unionization, please visit NATVPU.org To make a donation in support of the hard work NVPU is doing to protect veterinary professionals, visit NATVPU.org/donate.html Check out our Bad Ass merch line on our website at www.realtalkunleashed.com/shop Keep up with us on socials for updates on new episodes, events, and so much more! www.facebook.com/realtalkunleashed www.instagram.com/realtalkunleashed https://www.linkedin.com/company/real-talk-unleashed/ Thanks so much for listening!

Do you ever wish you could take all of the shock and prong collars off of pets and put them on the misogynistic, patriarchal people of the world? In this episode, Dr. Starke, Michele, and Kaitlynn sit down with Dr. Amy Pike, a veterinary behaviorist in Northern Virginia to discuss her advice to both veterinary professionals and clients as well as delve into their experiences as women in Vet Med. If you're interested in learning more about Animal Behavior and Dr. Amy Pike, you can visit her website abwellnesscenter.com Hang in there and we love you! The Real Talk Unleashed Team

Join the Real Talk Unleashed team as we discuss the signs of a toxic workplace, some of the issues that contribute to the toxicity, and suggestions to mitigate some of the dumpster fires you experience on a regular basis. If you think you are in a toxic workplace and need to leave, take Michele's suggestion and keep track of good vs. bad days on our Real Talk Unleashed Dumpster Fire Calendar. Visit our website www.realtalkunleashed.com to download it for free! Catch the next episode about Pandemic Puppies with special guest Dr. Amy Pike of the Animal Behavior Wellness Center in Fairfax, Virginia on September 24th. As always, please reach out to us if you need support or if you have any questions. Much love, Dr. Starke, Michele, and Kaitlynn

Tune in for the next episodes on the pros and cons of unionizing and toxic work environments in VetMed. Thanks for listening! <3 The Real Talk Unleashed Team

We have ALL dealt with more than our fair share of bad client behavior but how does it affect the veterinary industry as a whole? Dr. Tosha Starke, Michele Pevahouse, and Kaitlynn Scharapowa sit down to discuss how abusive clients and a lack of action or advocacy in management contribute to the staffing crisis in our field. Do you have a client horror story? Email it to contact@realtalkunleashed.com or DM it to us on social media @realtalkunleashed and we'll share it on the show. You can also always elect to be anonymous. Tune in for episode 3 on the corporatization of veterinary medicine and to hear about our experience at AVMA 2022 in Philly! As always, hang in there and much love. Dr. Starke, Michele, & Kaitlynn

Dr. Tosha Starke, Michele Pevahouse, and Kaitlynn Scharapowa come together to discuss the shit show that is veterinary medicine right now, some of the biggest issues our industry is facing, and where we can start making changes. We want to thank everyone who has followed us on social media, commented on or shared any of our posts, or completed the survey we sent out! We are so grateful for the support and can't wait to make some meaningful change so that we can all enjoy Vet Med for the reasons we got into it in the first place. We are hosting a live Q&A Saturday, July 16th, at 6:30PM on our Facebook page @realtalkunleashed and we hope to see you there! Much love, The Real Talk Unleashed team

A real ass veterinary podcast for real ass veterinary professionals. Uncensored. Unleashed. Unapologetic.