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Explore every episode of the podcast Vet Vibes

Dive into the complete episode list for Vet Vibes. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–28 of 28

TitlePub. DateDuration
Marineland Antibes: series teaser05 Jun 202600:01:35

Marineland Antibes closed its doors, leaving 12 dolphins and two orcas, Wikie and Keijo, languishing as France has banned the captivity of cetaceans for entertainment. What was perceived at the time as an ideological victory turned out to be a political mess. This series attempted to examine both sides of this polarised argument and to look at the science and beyond the PR messages of this high-profile case.

- episode 1 with Martin Boye, former director of the EAAM.

- episode 2 with Muriel Arnal, director of One Voice France

- episode 3 with me, Laura Mairesse, looking at the scientific evidence

For more information about the orcas and the situation that unfolded at the Marineland:

www.vetontheplanet.com/Wikie-and-Keijo 

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Navaratnam Partheeban: Diversity, Inclusion and Equity31 Dec 202501:05:37

This conversation has lived quietly in my archives for some time, and returning to it recently reminded me why I started this podcast in the first place: to create space for honest, thoughtful dialogue that stays with you long after the recording ends.

My guest for this final episode is Theeb. What you’re about to hear is not only one of the conversations I’m most proud of, but also one that holds deep personal meaning for me. It’s a reflection on experience, perspective, and the quieter truths that shape how we see the world and one another.

As this marks the closing chapter of the podcast for the foreseeable future, I’m especially grateful that this is the conversation we end on.

Thank you for listening, for being here, and for being part of this journey


Timestamps

* 1'00 My personal story

* 3'05" Guest introduction

* 5'20" Theeb's story and his why

* 8'55"  Recognition vs Success

* 10'25"Diversity doesn't exist on its own

* 16'25" Why is Diversity important

* 19'55" Microaggressions: what they are and their impact

* 24'20" Interactions reduce biases

* 27'25" Focus on mental health in minorities

* 32'25" How to bring those conversations in practice: leadership and psychological safety

* 37'25" Theeb's work with the new generations

*41'25" Representation doesn't cancel systemic discrimination

* 44'55" Equality isn't equity

* 46'55" Privileges, victimhood and allyship

* 48'35" Adapting the vet profession to a now feminised workforce

* 53'55" The contrast of the Swedish model

* 55'35" Different ways to improve access and rrepresentation for minorities

* 1.02'25" Summary for concrete and actionable steps




Link:


https://navaratnampartheeban.substack.com/

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

James Glass – Vetlife: Mental Health, Support & Suicide Prevention in the Veterinary Profession25 Oct 202401:13:42

In today’s episode, I’m joined by James Glass, a Vetlife trustee, who shares deep insights into the vital work Vetlife does alongside his personal experiences within the veterinary profession. Our conversation explores Vetlife’s core missions and organisation.

In the second half, we challenge the stigma around mental health. James and I discuss suicide within the profession in a practical, scientific, yet compassionate way, sharing valuable information that could help those in need or even save lives. We handle this with care, but I encourage anyone who may find this challenging to listen with discretion. Remember, support is always available, and I have included helpful links below.

Resources:

Vetlife:

 - information and help available https://www.vetlife.org.uk/how-we-can-help/

 - volunteering opportunities https://www.vetlife.org.uk/get-involved/

- support through financial giving or donations https://www.vetlife.org.uk/donate/

Mental Health First Aid 

 RCVS-MMI-MHFATraining

https://mhfaengland.org/individuals/adult/

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide:

https://uksobs.com/



Timestamps:

3'14" – Vetlife’s history and core missions

7'20" – The Helpline: how it works

12'40" – Health support services

17'35" – Financial support available

27'20" – 2024 campaign on Neurodiversity

30'50" – Why the Helpline’s popularity is increasing

35'20" – The “S” word: why open conversation matters

44'20" – Approaching someone you’re concerned about

48'50" – Factors contributing to higher suicide rates

59'20" – Suicide prevention and mental health awareness training

1:04:10" – Providing support after an attempt or during bereavement

1:07:40" – Volunteers, ambassadors, and fundraising efforts



For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Exploring the Versatility of Veterinary Nursing with Anna Schumann: From Clinic to Wildlife Conservation04 Oct 202400:45:03


In this episode, Anna Schumann shares her unique career journey, transitioning from a specialised veterinary nurse to a passionate wildlife conservationist. We explore her diverse experience, from emergency care and practice management to volunteering in global conservation projects. Anna now works with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, helping to protect elephants and their habitats. Tune in for an inspiring look at the many opportunities within the veterinary profession and the vital role of conservation.


To know more and support the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, follow the link.


TImestamps:


3'37" — Curiosity, transferable skills, and maintaining a positive attitude

4'37" — The pull and purpose of clinical veterinary work

8'45" — Flashback: how the veterinary profession has evolved—progress and challenges

19'45" — The realities and struggles of clinical practice

21'00" — Anna’s current role at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and conservation projects

27'00" — Addressing human-elephant conflict

29'00" — Bees and innovative approaches to coexistence

32'00" — A deep passion for volunteer conservation work

36'00" — Reflecting on a career with no regrets

39'45" — Building connections and foundations to a portfolio career






For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

S2E3: Small changes for big impact with LACEY PITCHER13 Sep 202400:50:05


In this episode, I’m joined by Lacey Pitcher, a true multi-talented professional in the veterinary world. She’s a proud registered veterinary nurse with a strong passion for advocacy and community-building.

Tune in to learn more about her work, her unique perspective, and how small changes can bring us all closer together.


1.30" Lacey's community and passion projects
10' Could empathy and compassion be lacking in our profession?
15.20" Lacey's top 3 of current mental health challenges
24.30" Practical ways to approach neurodiversity
30.30" Language series: spotlight on RVNs
41.15" Reflecting on "Progress"
47' What "good" looks like


* You can find Lacey here:  https://www.instagram.com/rvnspeaks/?hl=en

* And more resources on neurodiversity here: https://www.vetlife.org.uk/neurodiversity/

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Teaser: reflecting with Lacey Pitcher09 Sep 202400:01:15

In this week's episode, we talk with renowned RVN Lacey Pitcher about various aspects of the veterinary profession, including mental health and the visibility of veterinary nurses. Tune in Friday from 7am for insights from her work, reflections and community projects.

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Jessica Woolrich: How Non-Violent Communication Enhances Vet Teamwork & Care23 Aug 202400:50:12

This week on Vet Vibes, Jessica Woolrich discusses the vital importance of soft skills in veterinary practice, focusing on non-violent communication. Learn how these essential communication techniques can save lives, improve team cohesion, reduce conflict, and boost overall well-being within veterinary teams. Jessica shares practical, authentic advice on implementing non-violent communication both personally and professionally, helping vets foster a healthier, more supportive workplace.

Further resources:

www.vetled.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/company/vetled/

https://www.civilitysaveslives.com/


Timestamps:

2:15 – Human factors: what are they and why are they important in practice?

5:40 – Psychological safety

10:53 – Civility in the workplace: why it’s important and how to implement it in practice

17:56 – Non-violent communication

24:15 – Ways to practice and promote non-violent communication at the individual level

32:40 – Incivilities: disrupting teams and work commitment

36:10 – How to practise empathy

41:40 – Human factors in practice – where should I start?

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Teaser - Non Violent Communication with Jessica19 Aug 202400:01:29

Curious about improving communication within your team or with clients? Want to express your needs more effectively and understand the global impact of refining these soft skills? Join us this Friday at 7 a.m. for insights and tips. Happy listening!

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

S2E1- Molly Fiander: LOCUMING09 Aug 202400:38:26

In this episode, RVN Molly Fiander, the Locum expert, extensively discusses all aspects of locum work and how she has addressed its pain points by creating her company, Management for Locums. She shares her personal clinical experiences, financial hardships, and successful debut as an entrepreneur.

Timestamps:

3" - Key factors to ensure a good match between locums and practices
6'20" - The wrong reasons to go locuming
10'10" - An honest look on costs, budget and profits
14' - The added value of a locum
18'40" - How to valorise your work as a Locum
23'10" - Community at the heart of locuming success
26'58" - The hardships and pitfalls of locum life
28'40" - Self worth vs net worth
32'10" - Problem-solving and independence at the core of entrepreneurship
34' - Start-up yes or no?

you can contact Molly following those links below:

- email: info@managementforlocums.com
-  by phone: 07412225220
- her website: https://www.managementforlocums.com/
- booking a consultation: https://app.usemotion.com/meet/molly-fiander/meeting?d=30

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Teaser Episode 1 Season 2 with Molly Fiander25 Jul 202400:00:38

In this episode, my guest Molly Fiander, the locum expert, extensively discusses all aspects of locum work and how she has addressed its pain points by creating her company, Management for Locums. She shares her personal clinical experiences, financial hardships, and successful debut as an entrepreneur.

Join us on August 9th to kick off the second season of Vet Vibes!

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

EP6 Hilal Dogan: trauma at the root cause of the veterinary mental health crisis15 Jul 202301:15:36

Dr Hilal Dogan is a veterinary surgeon, a yoga teacher and a certified clinical trauma professional. Together we talked about traumatic stress in practice and underrated PTSD affecting the veterinary team. We also discussed the different degrees of responsibility to warrant well-being and the types of solutions to implement to mitigate the effects of trauma.

You can find all the resources we discussed by following the links below:

Instagram page of The Vet Confessional: https://www.instagram.com/vetconfessionals/?hl=en

DVM 360- Dr Dogan publications about mental health: https://www.dvm360.com/authors/hilal-dogan-bvsc-cctp

Direct link to copy of DSM definition of PTSD : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK207191/box/part1_ch3.box16/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5371751/#:~:text=The%20DSM%2D5%20definition%20of,considered%20trauma%20in%20this%20definition.

https://tpcjournal.nbcc.org/trauma-redefined-in-the-dsm-5-rationale-and-implications-for-counseling-practice/

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Episode 5 with Glen Cousquer on: The journey of Self Realisation17 Jun 202300:44:22

In this podcast, Glen and I discuss the necessary tools to equip veterinary students to offer them more resilience and strengthen mental fitness. He shares a spiritual approach he applies to teaching post-graduate students at the University of Edinburgh.

3'20'' - Uncovering the essential Self
6'25" - Acknowledging discomfort as a normal part of life
9'25" - Creating opportunities to integrate talks around mental health
11'20" - Exploring awareness raising
14'25" - Asking for help is a sign of strength
19'55" - Promoting groundedness as an essential skill
22'40" - The discomfort of unlayering
26'40"- The collective: hindering culture meets supportive network
34'30" - The complexities and ramifications of trauma
36'30" - Work-related stress and the future of the industry
41'30" - Lead to professional culture reforming.


 

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Justine Shotton on Wildlife Welfare 29 Dec 202501:07:13

In this episode, we’re joined by veterinarian and wildlife welfare specialist Justine Shotton for a wide-ranging conversation about what it really means to protect animals in the modern world.

Speaking on behalf of the RSPCA, Justine explores the evolving field of wildlife welfare, and how it intersects with traditional animal welfare, conservation, and human activity. We discuss the ethical and practical challenges of protecting wild animals, the growing concerns around animal welfare in sport and recreation, and the critical role veterinarians play at the interface between animals, the public, and policy.

From responding to injured wildlife to shaping public understanding and welfare standards, this episode highlights how veterinary professionals are increasingly becoming advocates, educators, and frontline guardians for both domestic and wild animals.

useful links:

Vet/Vet nurse only link: wildlife toolkit site: https://science.rspca.org.uk/vets 

RSPCA's wildlife advice pages for the public:

https://www.rspca.org.uk/reportaconcern?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=18503619493&gbraid=0AAAAADvvO2sOW8v0G8ARm0lXXYDH6Diq2&gclid=Cj0KCQjw64jDBhDXARIsABkk8J5d8oSkwE5rX2PaIVjZcXlEJpBISFnY4WQhCPFudvlv0HpU5a--EGUaAiKbEALw_wcB

 and 

https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife

and 

https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/wildlife/injured



For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Saving the Rainforest with Leif Cocks: The Deep Wisdom of Orangutan Conservation03 Jun 202300:46:42


In this special Vet Vibes episode, we journey to Indonesia to explore the world of great apes—and the passionate humans working to protect them. Leif Cocks, founder of The Orangutan Project, joins me to discuss a lifetime dedicated to saving orangutans and the rich biodiversity of the Indonesian rainforest.

Leif shares his deep-rooted connection with orangutans, explaining how they act as umbrella species whose protection ensures the survival of entire ecosystems. From habitat loss to palm oil politics, this conversation moves beyond the science into the spiritual and philosophical core of meaningful conservation.


If you wish to donate or get more information about Leif's charity:
https://www.theorangutanproject.org


Timestamps:

00:00 — Introduction

03:45 — Orangutans as umbrella species

06:20 — Habitat loss and other threats

08:30 — What makes conservation projects sustainable

13:00 — The importance of growth at an individual and organisational level

14:58 — Satellite operations or the holistic mission of the Orangutan Project

20:00 — Living a life of meaning and purpose

24:30 — How to choose an ethical wildlife tour

28:50 — Orangutan culture and the species’ survival

33:50 — Sustainable palm oil vs the real challenges of conservation

41:30 — The Orangutan Project


For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

What's up Vet Vibes & a **Special Episode** Teaser01 Jun 202300:03:07

After a few weeks-gap, here is the latest and future news for the channel, along with a special treat! 
Stay tuned x

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Understanding Neurodiversity with James Lovatt: Creating Inclusive Veterinary Workplaces07 Apr 202301:01:45

How understanding and embracing neurodiversity can make a better world for everyone.

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Teaser Episode 4 on Neurodiversity with James Lovatt03 Apr 202300:01:00

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

A Leader at Service: Jessica Olsson on Inspirational Leadership and Supporting Work Culture17 Mar 202300:51:08

Jessica shares her leadership experience at a large corporate hospital in Sweden and how, with a strong management team, they successfully created a very positive work culture. She details their commitment to minimising negative stress for staff with a tailored and individual approach, explaining how what can seem like an immediate financial loss often reveals a long-term return on investment. This episode offers valuable insights into leadership, wellbeing and creating workplaces where people thrive. 

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Ep2: Teodora Boaru on early career challenges and the new perspective after maternity24 Feb 202300:34:30

Teodora is a Romanian vet who immigrated with her husband after graduating. She shares her early career hurdles with authenticity. She also reflects on the current challenges of employment vs the freedom of being a locum, particularly in the context of work/life balance for a young mother.
From building clinical skills to the language barrier, mental health and mistake culture, it surely gets real!

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

EP1: Rachael Paul on employment and leadership05 Feb 202300:39:29

Rachael Paul is a headhunter and coach in personal development who reveals her unique point of view on the vet profession. Throughout this episode, she delivers the keys to job satisfaction and employee retention and shares her approach to successful leadership. 

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Season Greetings and Podcast Update28 Dec 202500:05:10

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Beyond Limits & Without Borders: Conservation with Sacha Dench05 Aug 202501:05:27

In this conversation with Sacha Dench, I gained a deeper understanding of how winning a freediving world championship shaped her bold, media-savvy approach to conservation. Sacha is unstoppable — no challenge, no condition, no physical demand is too much. She pushes limits in the sky, on land, and underwater. But beyond her daring is a woman who leads with compassion, breaks convention, and brings people together. This was a rich, humbling exchange I’ll always cherish — full of insight, resilience, and quiet strength.


TIMESTAMPS:

0:00 – Introducing Sacha Dench – Conservationist and Expedition Leader

2:45 – From Marine Biology to Flight – How Becoming a Freediving World Champion Amplified her a Voice

5:30 – Overcoming Turbulence Phobia Through Flying

10:00 – The Genesis of “Flight of the Swans” Expedition

14:00 – The Power of Storytelling in Environmental Conservation

18:00 – How Sacha Engages Diverse Audiences with Her Mission

25:00 – Flying Around the UK to Raise Climate Change Awareness

30:00 – Collective Action Over Politics in Conservation Efforts

33:00 – Introducing the New “Sea to Summit” Expedition

35:00 – Why Multidisciplinary Teams Matter in Environmental Work

38:00 – Conservation Challenges Facing Bewick’s Swans

42:00 – Threats to Ospreys and What’s Being Done

47:00 – 9 Years On: Outcomes of the Swan Expedition

49:00 – Understanding Powerline Hazards from a Swan’s Perspective

53:30 – Where Sacha Finds Optimism in Her Conservation Work

56:00 – What’s Next: The “Flight of the Vulture” Expedition

1:02:00 – How to Support Sacha Dench’s Projects and Campaigns


For more information about Conservation Without Borders:


-Website: https://www.conservation-without-borders.org/

Sea to Summit webpage: https://www.conservation-without-borders.org/expeditions/sea-to-summit

Fundraising link: https://www.conservation-without-borders.org/make-a-donation

Flight of the Vultures: https://www.conservation-without-borders.org/flight-of-the-vulture

Vulture fundraising link: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/help-save-worlds-most-threatened-animals

Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/conservation.without.borders

Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/conservation_without_borders/



For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Sean McCormack & The Not-so-Crazy Idea of Urban Beavers21 Jul 202501:07:13

What happens when a bold idea turns into rewilding success? Vet and conservationist Sean McCormack joins me to share the story of the Ealing Beaver Project: urban nature, community empowerment and the return of one of Britain's most important ecosystem engineer. 


2:15 – Breaking Into A Conservation Career

Challenges and hurdles Sean faced in his clinical work and breaking into wildlife conservation.


9:33 – The Water Vole Spark: How Ealing’s Beaver Project Began

How a small mammal set off a rewilding initiative in West London.


17:03 – Red Tape and Restoration: Launching a Beaver Reintroduction Project

The planning, permissions, and bureaucracy in urban wildlife projects.


22:03 – Community & Conservation: How Ealing Welcomed Its Beavers

Local support, reactions, and how public engagement shaped the project’s success.


32:03 – Beavers as Nature-Based Solutions to Urban Flooding

How beavers overdelivered.


35:15 – Biodiversity Boom: Wildlife Returns to Ealing

From a biodiversity "dead zone" to a newly thriving ecosystem.


40:05 – Where Did the Beavers Come From?

The origins of the UK’s new beaver populations and their rewilding journey.


43:22 – The Work of the Beaver Trust

The national charity helping restore beavers to British landscapes.


46:03 – Meet the Ealing Beaver Family

The original family of 5 and their quirks.


48:00 – Population Control & Human Management

How beavers regulate themselves—and future horizons for the kits.


52:00 – Why the UK Needs Wild Beavers

Sean’s passionate plea for nationwide beaver reintroduction.


55:48 – The Peregrine Falcons of West London

More thriving urban wildlife.


1:03:33 – The G.O.A.T: Meeting Sir David Attenborough

Sean shares the unforgettable moment of meeting Britain’s natural history legend.


All the links where you can find Sean and his multiple endeavours: 


https://ealingwildlifegroup.com/
https://theealingbeaverproject.com/
https://drseanmccormack.com/
https://shows.acast.com/seanswildlife
https://www.youtube.com/c/EalingWildlifeGroup/videos
https://www.instagram.com/thatvetsean
https://www.facebook.com/thatvetsean


For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

S3E2- Katie Ford Lifts the Veil on Coaching.26 May 202500:49:24

In this episode, I sit down with Katie Ford, vet, coach, speaker, podcaster and unapologetic truth-teller. With Katie's gentle approach, we lift the veil on what coaching truly offers — beyond the buzzwords and Instagram quotes. With her vet background and deep commitment to compassionate transformation, Katie brings clarity to a space that can often feel vague or overwhelming. Whether you’re contemplating a career shift, craving more meaning, or just wondering what’s next, this conversation is an open door into what coaching can be — supportive, structured, and deeply personal.

TIMESTAMPS:

- 2'55"- Qualities Katie brings to her coaching

- 7'10"- What is coaching, and is it for everyone?

- 10'40"- Can you get coached without a clear end goal?

- 14'- How to find the right coach?

- 16'30"- Does it always deliver results?

- 19'05"- Let's talk budget

- 21'45" What hardship can you expect during the coaching process?

- 25'20"- What does a somatic and trauma-informed coach bring to the table?

- 28'30"- What resources can we use daily?

- 32'- What are the best soft skills to develop in the vet profession?

- 34'45"- Reframing perfectionism

- 41'15"- What does the recent popularity of coaching say about the vet profession?

RESOURCES:

https://www.vetempowered.com/

https://howwefeel.org/

https://self-compassion.org/


For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

"Save the Reef": Coral Conservation in Utila with Marine Biologist Laura Olarte14 Apr 202500:35:18

This first episode marks an exciting new direction for Vet Vibes, where I begin sharing real-world stories from the frontlines of conservation.

I speak with Laura Olarte, a passionate Colombian marine biologist, diver, and educator I met in Utila while participating in the GoEco marine conservation programme at Utila Dive Centre (UDC).

Laura shares her journey from Colombia to the Caribbean, how she became Head of GoEco, and what it's like to work hands-on with reef restoration and species protection. We dive into the threats facing coral reefs today—including Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease—and discuss how local and global conservation efforts are responding.

But more than science, this episode explores connection. Laura speaks beautifully about her deep sense of humanity, her love for the sea, and what it means to dedicate your life to protecting fragile ecosystems.

Whether you're a diver, conservationist, or just reef-curious, this is an episode not to miss.


Timestamps:

1:55 – Early career: how Laura got started in marine biology

5:25 – A career led by purpose

11:55 – Causes of biodiversity loss

12:40 – Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease explained

14:25 – Coral bleaching events

15:25 – Ocean acidification

16:40 – Pollution threats to reefs

18:55 – Weather events and reef resilience

19:55 – Future predictions for the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef

22:40 – Diving ethics: privilege vs responsibility

26:25 – Being a woman in conservation

28:55 – Women in diving

30:55 – If Laura had a magic wand…

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Introduction to season 3: "A Wild Turn"10 Apr 202500:02:04

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

END for the year update27 Nov 202400:02:49

The podcast is taking a longer break than anticipated.
Find out the latest news and follow the IG page for more insights on my reflective journey with a detour in Sri Lanka...

https://www.instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

Marineland episode 1: Martin Boye08 Jun 202600:40:54

This episode has two parts, first an introduction of the complex situation at Marineland Antibes that have led to 18 months of limbos for 2 orcas and 12 dolphins since the park closure in January 2025. The second part is the interview of Martin Boye, at the time director of the EAAM, recorded in June 2025. 

timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to the Marineland series 

01:10 Background: the story of Marineland Antibes 

10:45 Interview with Martin Boye 

12:00 The EAAM and the industry's perspective 

15:15 Inside the park: the current situation 

17:30 Sea sanctuaries: the project and the hypothetical translocation 

20:30 The beluga case study: Little White and Little Grey 

24:15 Immune system challenges in sanctuary transitions 

25:05 Life expectancy in captivity 

30:00 Autopsy reports and chronic dental disease 

33:30 The failed transfer to Spain in 2025 39:06 Exit


More information and sources below:

- story of Wikie and Keijo

- sea sanctuaries for orcas

- welfare of captive orcas

For more content and interactive discussions on the topic, follow the channel on Instagram page: https://instagram.com/vetvibes_podcast?igshid=MzRIODBiNWFIZA==

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