Podcast
Veterinary Today Podcast
Hosted by ISVMA · EN
Veterinary Today discusses veterinary-related topics to help listeners better understand the latest trends and developments in veterinary practice and medicine from individuals making news in the veterinary profession.
This podcast shares information that informs listeners of animal medicine and related procedures, to better serve clients and their pets, companion animals and livestock, and to establish a more informed, knowledgeable, and engaged clinic staff.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
From X-Ray to Ultrasound: Building Stronger Imaging Skills in Practice
May 2600:17:58Tap to summarizeKimberly King, CVT, shares her unique path into veterinary medicine and why imaging became her professional passion. Now at Veterinary Diagnostic Centers, Kim helps run the Schaumburg location and is training to become an ultrasound sonographer. She walks listeners through what a fear-free, one-patient-at-a-time ultrasound practice looks like, including how cases are supported and how results get back to the primary veterinarian. Kim also offers practical radiology tips for veterinary teams, with an emphasis on obtaining the right view for the clinical question, improving image quality, and avoiding the “catagram” approach whenever possible. The conversation highlights hands-free radiology fundamentals, positioning tools, and when sedation can help teams get diagnostic images safely and efficiently. Kim also speaks candidly about VTNE test anxiety, her own experience retesting, and how preparation includes both content review and test-taking strategies. BioKimberly King, CVT, began her animal career in wildlife and zoological settings before transitioning into small animal practice. After years in general practice and a strong interest in diagnostic imaging, she joined Veterinary Diagnostic Centers, where she runs the Schaumburg location and is training to become an ultrasound sonographer. She is also an instructor for the ISVMA VTNE Master Class program, focusing on radiology and safety. In this episode Kim’s career path from big cat internships and zoo work to becoming a CVT in Chicagoland What a fear-free, owner-present, ultrasound-only clinic model looks like day to day Radiology fundamentals: take the right image for the right diagnostic question, not “whole body and hope” Hands-free radiology: positioning tools, efficiency, and when sedation supports safety and better images VTNE reality check: test anxiety, retesting, and preparing your mindset along with the material
Transcribe →Everything You Need to Know About the VTNE: Eligibility, Prep, and Test Day Tips
May 800:16:49Tap to summarizeWhether you are a veterinary technician student gearing up for the VTNE, a practice owner mentoring a vet tech hopeful, or a CVT who has been putting off licensure, this episode is for you. Channing Benson, Program Manager of the Exams Department at the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB), joins the Veterinary Today Podcast to pull back the curtain on everything VTNE-related.Channing oversees the VTNE from creation to administration and brings a clear, candid perspective to a process that can feel overwhelming. In this conversation, she walks through who is eligible to sit for the exam, how Illinois candidates in particular should approach the application process, what to expect on test day whether you choose live remote proctoring or a testing center, how scores are reported, and what resources the AAVSB offers to help candidates prepare and succeed. If you have questions about the VTNE, this episode answers them.--SHOW NOTESIn this episode:What the VTNE is, who is eligible to take it, and how the application process works, including Illinois-specific eligibility requirementsThe two testing options available to candidates: live remote proctoring at home and in-person testing centers, and what each experience actually looks likeHow the AAVSB's exam content outline serves as a blueprint for the entire test, including domain breakdowns, task statements, and question distributionCost, exam length, test day logistics, and what to do if your name does not match your applicationWhat happens after you submit: how pass/fail results are delivered, how long scores are available in your portal, and what the 31-day retake policy looks likeResources mentioned:AAVSB website: https://aavsb.org VTNE study page and exam content outline: https://aavsb.org (navigate to the VTNE section, then Study Resources) AAVSB Practice Advance: available through the AAVSB website Celebrating Diversity Award (exam voucher opportunity): https://aavsb.org ISVMA VTNE Masterclass Series: available on demand through ISVMA Connect with Channing and the AAVSB:Website: https://aavsb.org Email: vettech@aavsb.org
Transcribe →Innovating Veterinary Education: A Conversation with Mark Acierno, DVM
Mar 200:14:41Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Veterinary Today, we’re joined by Dr. Mark Acierno, Associate Dean at Midwestern University's College of Veterinary Medicine. With a career that spans across academia, clinical practice, and business, Dr. Acierno discusses his unconventional path from finance to veterinary medicine, his groundbreaking work in veterinary nephrology, and how he's shaping the future of veterinary education. Learn about new trends in curriculum design, the integration of technology like AI in veterinary practices, and the hands-on experiences that prepare students for real-world challenges in veterinary medicine.
Transcribe →The Art of Fear-Free Veterinary Care
Feb 2300:20:17Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Dr. Sally Foote dives deep into the world of low-stress veterinary care, sharing techniques that reduce animal aggression and staff injury. As a leader in veterinary behavioral medicine, Dr. Foote offers invaluable advice on creating safe, stress-free environments for both pets and the veterinary team. Don’t miss this insightful conversation about making veterinary practices safer, more efficient, and more compassionate.
Transcribe →Unlocking the Power of Neurodiversity in Veterinary Clinics with Alyssa Brown
Feb 1600:18:27Tap to summarizeJoin us for a thoughtful conversation with Alyssa Brown, a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) and Registered Laboratory Animal Technician (RLATg), as they explore the importance of neurodiversity in veterinary teams. In this episode, Alyssa shares their experiences as a neurodivergent professional and offers practical strategies for fostering a more inclusive, supportive environment in veterinary medicine. Whether you're neurodivergent or work alongside someone who is, Alyssa’s insights provide valuable guidance on improving communication, recognizing strengths, and creating a harmonious team dynamic.
Transcribe →The Veterinary Education Journey with Dr. Coretta Patterson
Feb 900:18:32Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we are joined by Dr. Coretta Patterson, an esteemed veterinarian with a passion for teaching and curriculum development. Dr. Patterson walks us through her diverse career journey, from her veterinary education at the University of Illinois to her role in building the future of veterinary education at Midwestern University. We dive into her experiences as an educator, her approach to fostering supportive environments for students, and her vision for the future of veterinary programs.
Transcribe →Revolutionizing Mentorship in Veterinary Care with Dr. Addie Reinhardt
Feb 200:12:52Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Veterinary Today, Dr. Addie Reinhardt, Founder and CEO of MentorVet, discusses the evolving role of mentorship in veterinary care. She shares her personal journey of overcoming burnout, the importance of structured mentorship programs, and the innovative strategies MentorVet is using to support veterinary professionals at every stage of their careers. Dr. Reinhardt also highlights the significance of peer mentorship and how expanding our networks can provide the emotional and professional support every veterinary professional needs.
Transcribe →Shaping the Future of Veterinary Medicine: Community Outreach & Career Exploration with Dr. Shannon Greeley & Dr. Allyson Harris
Jan 2600:15:29Tap to summarizeJoin Dr. Shannon Greeley and Dr. Allyson Harris as they discuss the incredible impact of community outreach programs designed to engage high school students in veterinary medicine. From the 4th Annual Veterinary Career Exploration Day to personal experiences with mentorship and career development, these leaders in veterinary medicine share insights and tips on how we can inspire the next generation of veterinarians.
Transcribe →Leaders Aren’t Born, They’re Made: Practical Leadership Habits for Veterinary Teams
Jan 1900:16:28Tap to summarizeDr. Jennifer Quammen, DVM, MPH, AVMA President-Elect (2025–2026) joins Veterinary Today from the ISVMA Annual Conference to talk about leadership that strengthens you and your team. Dr. Quammen shares her path from credentialed veterinary technician to practicing veterinarian, entrepreneur, and chief veterinary officer of Otto, plus how organized veterinary medicine shaped her leadership journey from the Kentucky VMA to AVMA.This conversation matters for veterinarians because leadership is not limited to titles. It shows up in how you manage your energy, make decisions, and create healthy team culture inside your practice. If you want to grow as a leader without losing yourself in the process, this episode offers grounded, practice-relevant takeaways.
Transcribe →Veterinary Leadership in Transition: Dr. Matt Bussan Passes the Gavel to Dr. Kate Brucker
Jan 1200:15:37Tap to summarizeIn this special episode of Veterinary Today, we sit down with Dr. Matt Bussan, the outgoing president of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association (ISVMA), and Dr. Kate Brucker, the incoming president, as they discuss their journey in veterinary leadership, the importance of organized veterinary medicine, and the challenges facing the profession today. Dr. Bussan reflects on his tenure, sharing insights from legislative work at the state and national levels, including the introduction of key bills like CBT title protection. Dr. Brucker shares her excitement about taking on the presidential role, focusing on her vision for strengthening connections with students and continuing the work on vital legislative issues. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership, advocacy, and community in the veterinary field.
Transcribe →