Training Vets to Talk, Feel, and Heal with Communication Expert Mickey McDermott

Rooted Tails by Rooted Owl

In this episode of Rooted Tales by Rooted Owl, host Jeffrey Mendelson sits down with Mickey McDermott—Director of Content and Research at Nurture, and Head of Content and Engagement Strategy at Circa Healthcare. Together, they explore how communication training is transforming veterinary care from the inside out.

Through avatar-based simulation tools and immersive team experiences developed with DialogueTrainer and Saint Anna Advice, Mickey reveals how communication is not just a soft skill—but a clinical necessity that deeply affects pet outcomes, client trust, and veterinary team well-being.

From preventing burnout and miscommunication to building safer, more empathetic veterinary workplaces, this conversation dives into the emotional engine that drives every exam room interaction.

Key Lessons Covered in This Episode:

Why Communication is a Clinical Skill:

Mickey explains how even the most skilled clinicians can struggle without emotional safety or communication training—and how this gap affects diagnosis, treatment compliance, and client experience.

Understanding the “Second Patient”:

Veterinary teams don’t just treat pets—they support grieving, stressed, or overwhelmed humans. Learn how better dialogue leads to better outcomes on both sides of the exam table.

Preventing Burnout through Better Talk:

Explore how emotionally intelligent communication helps reduce team fatigue, foster psychological safety, and create healthier clinic culture.

Avatar-Based Training That Works:

Mickey walks us through how his team is using AI-powered, role-play simulations to help vet teams handle sensitive conversations with confidence and compassion.

Empathy as a Team Sport:

Discover how improving communication isn’t just about the doctor—it includes receptionists, vet techs, and managers. Everyone plays a role in setting the tone.

Culture Shifts That Stick:

Mickey shares examples of clinics that moved from high turnover to high trust—and how a shift in how people talk can transform how they work.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Communication isn’t optional in clinical care—it’s foundational

✅ Pet owners are emotionally vulnerable clients who need clarity, not confusion

✅ Miscommunication leads to burnout, mistakes, and client mistrust

✅ Empathy and team cohesion can be trained—not just hoped for

✅ Clinics thrive when communication is prioritized, practiced, and made safe

Listen Now:

If you want to go beyond training and truly understand your dog—emotionally, physically, and energetically—this episode is essential. Elizabeth Ann Johnson’s approach offers a revolutionary way to build healthier, longer-lasting connections with your furry companions.

Spotify | Apple Podcasts

Connect with Elizabeth Ann Johnson:

🔗 Learn more at Circa Healthcare

🔗 Visit Nurture Veterinary Solutions

🔗 Connect on LinkedIn: Mickey McDermott

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