The Veterinary Culture Lab is your science-backed, real-world blueprint for culture renovation in veterinary medicine. Hosted by Andi and Josh, Positive Change Agents from Flourish Veterinary Consulting, each episode blends research on wellbeing and workplace culture with humor, heart, and actionable strategies. Expect practical tips you can apply right away - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
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006: The Vet Med Circus: Why Collaboration is the Star of the Show
Season 1 · Episode 6
Tuesday, November 4, 2025 • Duration 29:03
The Vet Med Circus: Why Collaboration Is the Star of the Show
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Josh and Andi explore one of the most powerful—but often overlooked—drivers of high-functioning veterinary teams: positive communication that fuels real collaboration.
Grounded in a 2024 study on veterinary team communication, they break down 15 specific behaviors that can either build, or break, collaborative veterinary workplaces. These habits go beyond personality or work ethic and show how simple shifts in how we speak, listen, and respond can drive culture renovation.
You do not need a big budget or fancy retreat to improve your veterinary culture—just a few intentional moments of respect, empathy, and action-oriented communication can spark real change.
You’ll hear:
What true collaboration in veterinary teams looks like—and what it is not
Why communication often matters more than work ethic in vet med
The 4 core categories of collaborative behaviors (with real-world examples)
Why respect in veterinary teams is the top behavior linked to success
How to turn empathy and curiosity into culture-building tools
Action steps to boost trust, psychological safety, and team morale
Whether you are managing a clinic, working the treatment floor, or leading from the front desk, this episode offers practical tools to support thriving, high-functioning veterinary teams—one conversation at a time.
Resources:
Episode Article:
Title: Positive Communication Practices for Enhancing Collaboration
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Collaboration in Vet Med
00:40 Casual Chat: Smoothies and Pets
03:45 The Importance of Collaboration in Vet Med
06:20 A Real-Life Example of Effective Collaboration
09:58 Key Communication Practices for Collaboration
13:05 Respect and Empathy in Teamwork
22:05 Practical Steps to Enhance Collaboration
26:45 Florida Man: A Humorous Conclusion
005: Seen, Valued, Energized: How Micro-Connections Build Thriving Vet Teams
Season 1 · Episode 5
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 • Duration 31:51
Seen, Valued, Energized: How Micro-Connections Build Thriving Veterinary Teams
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Andi and Josh dive into one of their favorite culture renovation tools: high-quality connections (or as we like to say, micro-connections that pack a punch).
Inspired by the stories of MVP Joey Votto and NBA star Steph Curry, and grounded in the research of organizational psychologist Dr. Jane Dutton, this conversation explores how fleeting, positive moments between team members can change everything—from mood and motivation to retention and resilience.
In a profession where time is short and stress runs high, veterinary teams need more than coffee and courage. They need connection. And the best part? You do not need a retreat or a big budget to make it happen.
You’ll hear:
What high-quality connections actually are—and why they matter in vet med
How micro-interactions shift team energy and culture
Why these connections are essential during stress and chaos
The 3 science-backed pathways that make a connection “high-quality”
Practical ways to create, model, and celebrate these moments at work
Whether you manage a clinic or assist in surgery, this episode shows how a little intentionality can spark a whole lot of wellbeing.
Resource Links
Episode Articles:
Title: The Power of High-Quality Connections Author: Jane E. Dutton Access URL (PDF from Center for Positive Organizations): https://positiveorgs.bus.umich.edu/wp-content/uploads/HighQualityConnections.pdf
Title: Joey Votto and Steph Curry Found a Secret to Workplace Happiness. You Can, Too. Author: Rustin Dodd URL: https://theathletic.com/5480823/2025/05/22/joey-votto-steph-curry-happiness/
004: The Climate Effect: How Leadership Communication Shapes Veterinary Workplaces
Season 1 · Episode 4
Tuesday, October 7, 2025 • Duration 36:26
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Josh and Andi explore the power of communication in shaping how a workplace feels and why that feeling matters more than we think.
Drawing on new research from the University of Michigan, the conversation dives into how intentional leadership communication transformed workplace climate, decreased burnout, and boosted engagement - all during a time of crisis.
With vet med facing its own climate challenges, this study offers a blueprint for change: small communication shifts that create big ripple effects. From high-quality connections to building relational reserves, this episode connects the dots between leadership behavior and team wellbeing.
You’ll hear:
What “workplace climate” really means—and how it differs from culture
How leadership communication became a lever for change
Why positive climate matters more than pay when it comes to retention
How to build resilience before the next crisis hits
Practical micro-practices you can use to shape climate on purpose
Whether you lead a team or simply want your clinic to feel more human, this episode offers science-backed insight into what makes veterinary workplaces thrive from the inside out.
Resource Links
Episode Article:
Article Title: Positive Leadership within Breast Imaging: Impact on Burnout, Intent to Leave, and Engagement
Authors: Amy Young, Jennifer J. Gruber, and Nima Aghdassi
003: You Can't Hustle Your Way to Thriving:" Why Culture Beats the Grind in Vet Med
Season 1 · Episode 3
Tuesday, September 30, 2025 • Duration 31:28
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Andi and Josh unpack the myth that success in veterinary medicine is all about grit and hustle—and offer a compelling alternative backed by research.
Grounded in leadership science and workplace psychology, this episode explores new findings from the Thriving at Work: 2023 Leadership Development Survey and connects them to veterinary teams through the powerful lens of culture renovation. With burnout on the rise and turnover rates high, the conversation challenges long-held assumptions and offers practical, doable shifts to help teams flourish.
You’ll hear:
Why “just push through” is not a long-term strategy for wellbeing
What the science says truly drives thriving in veterinary workplaces
How the “20% Rule” can help teams access more meaning without overhauling their jobs
Real-life examples of how strengths, recognition, and curiosity fuel engagement
Whether you’re rethinking leadership, rebalancing workloads, or just trying to feel less drained at the end of the day, this episode offers science-backed ideas for making veterinary work more human—and more sustainable.
Resource Links:
Episode Article(s):
Title: Thriving at work
Authors: Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership (2023)
***
Title: Beyond the Hustle: Rethinking what it takes to thrive at work
Authors: Elisa van Dam, Susan MacKenty, Brady and Pynn Perry Wooten (2025)
*** 20% Rule resource: Title: Burnout Rate Is Lower Among Academic Physicians When Time Is Spent on Meaningful Work
002: The Good Kind of DRAMMA: Six Specific Ways to Thrive in Vet Med
Season 1 · Episode 2
Tuesday, September 30, 2025 • Duration 35:10
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Josh and Andi explore a surprising twist on workplace drama—one that could actually improve veterinary wellbeing. Spoiler: it is not the gossip-filled kind of drama, but the science-backed DRAMMA model, a powerful framework built on six core psychological needs that support human flourishing at work.
Grounded in recovery science and positive psychology, this conversation unpacks how detachment, relaxation, autonomy, mastery, meaning, and affiliation can transform your team’s culture from overwhelmed and burnt out to energized and engaged.
You’ll hear:
Why the DRAMMA model offers a practical path to better wellbeing at work
How small changes—like five-minute mental breaks—can reduce stress and improve team dynamics
What “mastery” looks like in a veterinary setting (spoiler: it involves #RollieAF veins)
A real-world example of how brushing a horse’s tail became a built-in moment of detachment
Whether you're leading culture renovation or just trying to recharge between shifts, this episode delivers science-backed strategies to help your veterinary team thrive—one need at a time.
Resource Links:
Episode Article
Title: Need Satisfaction and Optimal Functioning at Leisure and Work: A Longitudinal Validation Study of the DRAMMA Model
Authors: Miika Kujanpää, Christine Syrek, Dirk Lehr, Ulla Kinnunen, Jo Annika Reins, Jessica de Bloom (2020)
001: North of Neutral: why positive psychology matters in vet med
Season 1 · Episode 1
Tuesday, September 30, 2025 • Duration 35:45
North of Neutral: why positive psychology matters in vet med
In this first episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, hosts Andi and Josh go deep on the science that underpins everything they do at Flourish: positive psychology.
What is positive psychology—really? And what isn’t it? Spoiler: it is not toxic positivity, it is not ignoring suffering, and it is definitely not “just think happy thoughts.” Grounded in the work of Dr. Martin Seligman, this conversation unpacks how the science of human flourishing can help veterinary professionals move beyond burnout, beyond “meh,” and into more meaningful, sustainable wellbeing.
You’ll hear:
A real-life story that perfectly illustrates Corey Keyes’ concept of languishing
Why positive psychology in veterinary medicine is more than “good vibes”
A breakdown of the common myths—like “isn’t this just positive thinking?”
The surprising power of language: why swapping “but” for “and” matters
A laugh-out-loud Florida Man story involving a blowtorch and some questionable decision-making
Whether you’re leading a veterinary team or just trying to make it through the week with purpose, this episode offers science-backed insights and practical takeaways for thriving in vet med—without ignoring the hard stuff.
Resource Links:
Episode Article:
Title: Positive psychology: FAQs. Authors: Seligman, M. E. P., & Pawelski, J. O. (2003). DOI: https://www.jstor.org/stable/1449825
011: Care Flows Forward: How Supporting Your Team Elevates Patient Care in Vet Med
Season 1 · Episode 11
Tuesday, January 13, 2026 • Duration 36:39
Care Flows Forward: How Supporting Your Team Elevates Patient Care in Vet Med In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Andi and Josh explore a simple but powerful truth: teams do not feel your intentions — they feel your behaviors. Using a human healthcare study on manager caring and patient experience, they dig into how presence, visibility, and small supportive actions ripple outward to strengthen culture and elevate care.
You’ll hear:
Why leaders often feel caring but struggle to show it in ways teams can experience
What research reveals about the link between leader presence, team wellbeing, and client care
How everyday micro-moves (#goinginwiththem) build trust and connection.
The hidden barriers that keep leaders stuck in the office — and how to break through them
Practical ways to demonstrate care, shield your team, and close communication loops
Whether you manage a whole hospital or support a busy shift, this episode offers grounded, usable strategies to show up for your team in the moments that matter most.
Resource Links:
Episode Article:
Title: The Relationship Between Staff Nurses’ Perceptions of Nursing Manager Caring Behaviors and Patient Experience: A Correlational Study Authors:Kotich, Kelly
Find it: This article is a PhD dissertation submitted to UMKC in 2020. Unfortunately there is no current DOI. Please contact us with any questions.
010: Ask, Don't Tell: Coaching Skills to Boost Connection in Your Vet Med Culture (PART 2)
Tuesday, December 30, 2025 • Duration 39:06
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Andi and Josh return for Part 2 of their conversation on coaching communication—this time turning insight into action.
Building on the science from The Effectiveness of Workplace Coaching: A Meta-Analysis of Contemporary Psychologically Informed Coaching Approaches (2021), this episode explores how curiosity comes to life through Sir John Whitmore’s GROW model - a simple, powerful framework for creating confidence, motivation, and connection on veterinary teams.
From goal setting to growth mindset, Andi and Josh break down each step of GROW through a positive psychology lens—showing how just a few intentional questions can shift culture, empower teams, and bring out the best in everyone.
You’ll hear:
How the GROW model (Goal, Reality, Options, Way Forward) can transform team conversations
Why connecting goals to personal values sparks motivation and meaning
Ways to reframe “what’s wrong” into “what’s strong” when exploring workplace reality
Simple curiosity-driven questions that open up new possibilities
How small coaching moments—just a few minutes long—can reshape your culture from the inside out
Whether you’re a leader, technician, or teammate, this episode gives you the tools to put curiosity into action and start creating the kind of culture every veterinary professional deserves to be part of.
Resource Links:
Episode Article:
Title: The effectiveness of workplace coaching: A meta-analysis of contemporary psychologically informed coaching approaches Authors:Qing Wang, Yiming Lai, Jian Xu, & Almuth McDowall
009: Ask, Don't Tell: Coaching Skills to Boost Connection in Your Vet Med Culture (PART 1)
Season 1 · Episode 9
Tuesday, December 16, 2025 • Duration 37:38
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Andi and Josh explore what coaching really means in veterinary medicine—and why curiosity might be the most powerful tool we have to strengthen culture.
Grounded in a 2021 meta-analysis of workplace coaching, this conversation unpacks how three evidence-based approaches—GROW, Positive Psychology Coaching, and Cognitive Behavioral Coaching—can help veterinary teams build confidence, connection, and wellbeing. Andi and Josh share why coaching is not advice-giving or mentoring, but a structured, science-backed conversation that helps people clarify goals, see reality more fully, explore new options, and take meaningful steps forward.
From donuts and Ted Lasso to the science of empowerment and agency, this episode will leave you rethinking the way you talk with your team—and why “ask, don’t tell” is the secret to renovating workplace culture.
You’ll hear:
Why coaching is different from advice, therapy, or mentoring
What the research says about coaching’s impact on performance and wellbeing
How GROW, Positive Psychology Coaching, and Cognitive Behavioral Coaching each support veterinary teams
Why curiosity is the throughline of effective coaching conversations
Simple ways to practice curiosity—even on busy, chaotic days
Whether you’re leading a team, mentoring a new grad, or simply hoping for more meaningful workplace conversations, this episode offers a hopeful, practical look at how coaching can change the way veterinary teams connect and thrive.
Resource Links:
Episode Article:
Title: The effectiveness of workplace coaching: A meta-analysis of contemporary psychologically informed coaching approaches Authors:Qing Wang, Yiming Lai, Jian Xu, & Almuth McDowall
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to High Quality Connections
00:40 Casual Conversation and Personal Updates
02:30 Excitement for Today's Topic
02:47 Defining High Quality Connections
03:23 Real-Life Examples of High Quality Connections
04:26 Exploring High Quality Connections in Professional Settings
06:28 Research and Articles on High Quality Connections
07:51 Stories of Joey Vato and Steph Curry
09:46 The Science Behind High Quality Connections
11:34 Personal Stories of High Quality Connections
13:10 The Impact of High Quality Connections in Vet Med
14:48 The Power of Using Names
15:38 High Quality Connections in Fast-Paced Environments
17:38 The Importance of Connection During Stressful Times
20:17 Building a Resilient Culture
21:36 Practical Tips for Creating High Quality Connections
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: The Impact of Communication at Work
00:43 Team Dynamics and the Importance of Key Members
02:24 Climate and Culture in the Workplace
05:03 Leadership Styles and Their Effects
10:08 Positive Leadership and Workplace Climate Study
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction: Rethinking Work Culture
00:57 Casual Catch-Up: Horse Troubles and Farm Life
03:35 A Day in the Life: Unexpected Calls and Mixed Emotions
05:01 Personal Stories: The Hustle Culture
10:07 Research Insights: Thriving at Work
13:40 Enablers of Thriving: Good Management and Communication
15:50 Building a Transparent and Strengths-Focused Team
17:04 The 20% Rule for Thriving at Work
19:57 Applying the 20% Rule to Cultural Renovation
21:53 Conducting an Energy Audit for Your Team
24:09 The Power of Curiosity in Leadership
28:28 Florida Man: A Humorous Interlude
30:01 Wrapping Up and Encouraging Engagement
What Do You Think? Reach out to us and let us know at Info@flourish.vet
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Episode Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction to Workplace Drama 00:48 – A Strange Celery Stalker 01:48 – Defining Drama in Vet Med 02:19 – Exploring Psychological Needs 03:55 – Loving the Job at Flourish 06:21 – The DRAMMA Model Explained 09:20 – Applying the DRAMMA Model to Vet Med 10:07 – Detachment and Relaxation 10:44 – Personal Detachment Strategies 16:15 – Mastery and Skill Development 17:07 – Understanding Flow States 17:49 – Applying Flow States in Veterinary Practice 18:07 – The Importance of Mentorship 18:36 – Stretch Skills in Veterinary Practice 22:03 – Autonomy and Control in the Workplace 23:31 – Meaning and Affiliation at Work 24:34 – Implementing Culture Renovation 25:03 – Micro Breaks and Human Connection 28:55 – Ask Me Anything Sessions 32:43 – Florida Man Story 34:21 – Conclusion and Farewell
What Do You Think? Reach out to us and let us know at Info@flourish.vet
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to Positive Psychology
00:49 Weekend Stories and Dad Jokes
03:57 Discussing Languishing and Personal Experiences
11:36 The Science of Positive Psychology
16:11 Common Questions About Positive Psychology
17:05 Reflecting on Positive Psychology FAQs
17:46 The Misconception of 'Happyology'
18:49 The Role of Discomfort in a Meaningful Life
20:30 Balancing Positive and Negative Emotions
22:42 The Value of Pessimistic Thinking
24:30 Practical Applications in Veterinary Medicine
31:03 Leadership and Positive Psychology
32:55 Florida Man: A Humorous Conclusion
What Do You Think? Reach out to us and let us know at Info@flourish.vet
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction: The Secret to Outstanding Patient Care
01:01 Casual Conversation: Taxes and Business Ventures
02:11 The Importance of Demonstrating Care in Leadership
04:03 Research Insights: Manager Behaviors and Patient Experience
04:53 Personal Experiences: Good and Bad Managers
09:26 Study Breakdown: Manager Caring and Visibility
14:09 Challenges in Veterinary Leadership
18:56 The Importance of Visibility in Leadership
19:47 Effective Communication and Supportive Behaviors
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Part Two
00:41 Weekend Stories and Personal Anecdotes
05:56 The Importance of Curiosity in Coaching
11:24 Diving into the Grow Model
17:34 The Power of Future-Oriented Goals
18:21 Intrinsic Motivation and Self-Efficacy
19:35 Curiosity in Goal Setting
20:40 Reality Check: Balancing Barriers and Strengths
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Coaching in Veterinary Medicine
00:42 Casual Conversation and Weekend Plans
01:35 Horse Training and Competitions
04:46 Ted Lasso Fandom
07:43 The Essence of Coaching
08:56 The Importance of Coaching in VetMed
12:27 Research on Coaching Effectiveness
14:13 Popular Coaching Models
16:31 Integrating Coaching Models
20:32 Identifying Progress and Strengths
21:11 The Power of Curiosity in Coaching
22:52 Maintaining Curiosity Amidst Chaos
24:03 Practical Tips for Staying Curious
27:33 Curiosity in Veterinary Culture
34:02 Teasing the Next Episode
35:06 Florida Man and Closing Remarks
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