We’re warming up for the London Vet Show with a mix of conference wisdom and classic chaos. Mike talks super-cuffs and reliable readings, Julian drops a 60-second CPD on making the most of your day and together they dive into exhibit fatigue, greener shows, and the joy of good kit used well. Expect the usual tangents, unexpected insights, and a brand-new take on the famous bread question.

This week we’re joined by Arlo Guthrie - publisher, community builder, and unapologetic critical thinker. From cake factories and cockpits to founding VetNurse.co.uk and VetSurgeon.org, Arlo explores how the profession communicates: the fragmentation of social media, AI’s confident mistakes, and practical rules for writing online with clarity and respect. We also dig into pricing, trust, and contextualised care, and how better communication can rebuild confidence in the profession.

This week we’re joined by Mark Johnston, former equine anaesthetist, digital innovator, and mental health advocate. From his early years in Newmarket to leading research on anaesthetic risk, Mark talks openly about burnout, reflection, and rediscovering balance beyond the profession. We explore the evolution of Vetstream, his work supporting Ukrainian vets, and why self-awareness is as vital as clinical skill. Along the way, he shares lighter moments on bread-making, open questions, and how connection over conversation can change everything.

This week we’re joined by Gunila Pedersen - ECC vet, life coach, and Muay Thai enthusiast who splits her time between Spain, Denmark, and the UK.

From belly dancing gigs to night shifts in emergency practice, Gunila talks candidly about chasing variety, hitting burnout, and finding her way back to vet med with stronger boundaries and a clearer head. We dive into what drew her to emergency work, how coaching reframed her career (and life), and a challenging safeguarding case that underlines why protocols and support matter.

This week we’re joined by Manon Verijdt - writer, adventurer, and editor of Ubuntu Magazine.

From a very Dutch loaf to a very big leap: Manon shares how a sleepless night on a boat off Norway sparked a global conservation magazine and how the spirit of “I am because we are” runs through its pages. We follow her overland across Africa: tracking gorillas, abseiling a towering waterfall, digging out of Zambian mud with strangers-turned-friends, and rescuing a tiny Nigerian street pup, Nim.

Manon also explains why Ubuntu tells conservation stories and delivers a brilliant 60-Second CPD on becoming media-ready. A joyful, reflective ride about curiosity, courage, and seizing the tide when it turns.

This week we’re joined by Karis Matik, Marketing & Brand Director at Kernow Vet Messaging and dedicated StreetVet volunteer.

From French baguettes to Cornwall’s hidden homelessness crisis, Karis shares stories of community, inclusion, and why volunteering has become such a central part of her life. We also dive into her work on making veterinary practices more accessible through inclusive communication and of course, her unforgettable 60-Second CPD.

A lively conversation full of heart, humour, and a reminder that sometimes the biggest changes start with the smallest actions.

Ellie Lee joins us to share the remarkable journey of opening Manchester Cat Clinic with her husband just two years ago. From renovating a derelict building into an award-winning practice to learning the hard lessons of long hours and leadership, Ellie talks cats, community, and carving out independence in a corporate-heavy landscape.

Angela Willemsen’s career spans human nursing, the Royal Australian Air Force, veterinary medicine, and a PhD in infection control. She shares how her journey shaped a passion for public health, One Health, and teaching infection prevention in veterinary practice.

Along the way, Angela also opens up about moon bear welfare, workplace culture, and why small changes in hygiene can make a big difference for both animals and people.

Neil Forbes joins us again to uncover what really goes on behind the scenes of veterinary hygiene. From hidden pathogens to the culture of “good enough,” he shares why measuring cleanliness matters more than we think. Along the way, he explores culture change, infection control, and even shares a vulture success story.

What do rare spaniels, sled dogs, and civility at work have in common? In this episode, Sara Jackson shares how an accidental encounter with a Sussex Spaniel grew into a passion for breed advocacy and animal welfare.

Along the way, she opens up about the quirks of veterinary life, the challenges of responsible breeding, and why kindness and positive psychology matter more than ever in our profession. 

Niall Connell shares his remarkable journey from an unexpected start in veterinary medicine to a career filled with orthopaedic challenges, leadership roles, and advocacy for accessibility and inclusion.

The conversation meanders through Niall’s early days as a vet, his candid reflections on living and working with MS, and the transformative impact of mobility aids. Neil offers practical wisdom on accessibility while also touching on the importance of empathy, positive outlook, and lived experience in both professional and personal life.

Along the way, the trio reminisce about music festivals, first concerts, and the quirks of British culture, all while celebrating the resilience and adaptability of the veterinary profession.

To celebrate Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month, we’re flipping the script - literally. Matt Rendle and Jo Megarity step in as guest hosts, giving Mike and Julian a taste of the guest seat for once.

We discuss the vital role of veterinary nurses, their professional evolution, and notable experiences in the field. The discussion highlights the indispensable teamwork between vets and nurses, the evolving educational standards, and crucial issues like imposter syndrome and professional respect.

This isn’t just another episode - it’s a proper celebration of the voices that deserve to be heard more often! 

Dr David Williams joins Mike and Julian for an extensive conversation that spans various topics including the power of a bow tie, lifelong learning, and the intersection of faith and veterinary medicine. Dr Williams shares heartwarming anecdotes from his life and career, recounts his near-death experience, and discusses the importance of joy and empathy in veterinary practice. The episode also delves into ophthalmology, highlighting Dr Williams' expertise and passion for teaching. This engaging conversation is filled with humour, wisdom, and a deep love for veterinary science.

In this episode, Mike and Julian are joined by Andy Green – small animal vet, leadership mentor, and Director at the employee-owned Pennard Vets.

Andy explores the importance of forming habits, nurturing a growth mindset, and the power of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). Learn how he has mastered the guitar, adopted daily practices, and even ventured into helicopter flying.

Packed with practical tips on staying present, communicating effectively in vet consultations, and fostering a positive mindset, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to transform their daily routine and achieve mastery in various aspects of life.

In this engaging episode of Veterinary Ramblings, Mike and Julian are joined by Rebecca Amos from the Highland Wildlife Park. Rebecca sheds light on her intriguing work involving the reintroduction of wild cats, challenges of conservation projects, and the diverse species she works with, including polar bears and medicinal leeches. The conversation ranges from the specifics of wild cat reintroduction, the ethical considerations of keeping animals in captivity, to the fascinating world of invertebrate medicine. Rebecca also shares personal anecdotes about her life in the Highlands, including her climbing adventures and love for the majestic landscapes. The episode is packed with informative discussions on wildlife conservation, the adaptation of polar bears to changing climates, and the potential future of de-extinction projects.

In this episode, Mike and Julian are joined by Fergus Allerton, a leading voice in antimicrobial stewardship within veterinary medicine, to tackle the pressing issue of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

They kick things off with a light-hearted chat about sore throats and antibiotics before diving into the complexities of AMR and the global risks it poses. Fergus breaks down how antimicrobial resistance develops, why responsible antibiotic use is critical, and highlights key initiatives like the PROTECT ME guidelines and Antibiotic Amnesty.

The conversation also explores parallels between human and veterinary medicine, the role of education—especially for children, and how One Health links human and animal health.

Fergus shares his personal experiences, including his work as an independent visitor with Barnardo’s and his passion for veterinary medicine. To wrap up, he takes on the 60-second CPD challenge, offering practical, actionable steps for vets to make a real impact in antimicrobial stewardship.

🎧 Tune in to find out how YOU can play a role in protecting antibiotics for future generations!

In this episode, Julian and Mike introduce Allison Johansson, an expert on managing stress and trauma. The discussion revolves around techniques for dealing with acute and chronic stress, using unconventional but effective methods such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) and polyvagal theory. 

Allison explains how to identify and address stress responses, comparing them to a small child seeking attention. She elaborates on the physiological and psychological aspects of stress and trauma, offers quick tips for managing day-to-day stress, and highlights the importance of feeling safe. 

The dialogue also touches on specific stress triggers for veterinarians and strategies to cope with burnout. Allison concludes with a 60-second CPD segment on finding safety in stress and announces her upcoming book on well-being in veterinary medicine.

In this episode, Dr Dave Nicol joins Julian and Mike to share his journey from veterinary practice owner to author and mentor for aspiring vets. Together, they explore the complexities of leadership within veterinary medicine, the vital role of mentorship, and Dr Nicol's innovative approach to enhancing both emotional and practical support for new graduates. 

The conversation also touches on his passion for triathlons, the importance of rest and recovery, and key considerations in end-of-life care for pets. With a mix of personal stories, professional insights, and Dr Nicol's forward-thinking ideas, this episode offers valuable advice on making veterinary practice more sustainable and fulfilling. Tune in for an inspiring discussion that blends experience, empathy, and expertise.

In this episode of Veterinary Ramblings, hosts Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad are joined by wildlife conservationist Nicky Fish for an inspiring exploration of bats, biodiversity, and beyond. 

Nicky shares her deep knowledge of bat conservation, discussing the threats they face from climate change and wind farms, while shedding light on their remarkable echolocation abilities. The conversation also dives into the art of bodging, building wildlife-friendly habitats, and Nicky’s personal truffle-hunting adventures with trained dogs in the picturesque landscapes of Snowdonia. 

With captivating stories of Welsh wilderness, practical conservation tips, and a deep passion for preserving nature, this episode is a must-listen for nature lovers and eco-enthusiasts alike.

Mike Brampton and Julian Hoad welcome renowned veterinary neurologist Clare Rusbridge to discuss her work on Chiari malformation and syringomyelia in toy breed dogs. 

Clare discusses the challenges of diagnosing and managing these conditions, the genetic and breeding factors involved, and the significant impact on canine health. The discussion touches on Clare's efforts to develop better screening methods and public awareness, alongside her struggles against breeder resistance. 

The episode also explores broader topics like the influence of human preferences on dog breeding, veterinary pressures, and Clare’s personal insights into balancing a demanding career in veterinary medicine with her passion for practicing yoga. The episode offers valuable insights not just for veterinarians, but for anyone interested in the welfare of our canine companions.