263: How One Bad Job Made Me a Better Vet with Dr. Whitney Terrell

The 'So You're A Vet... Now What?' Podcast

In this episode of So You’re a Vet, Now What?, Dr. Moriah McCauley sits down with Dr. Whitney Terrell, veterinarian and social media educator, to explore how mentorship gone wrong can still lead to something incredibly right.

Dr. Terrell shares her story of starting out as a bright-eyed new grad with dreams of becoming a mixed-animal vet, only to face the crushing reality of broken promises, toxic culture, and emotional burnout during her first job out of vet school. Her story is a powerful account of resilience, self-respect, and the long-term impact of doing things differently.

From fielding gaslighting and isolation in a supposedly mentorship-based role to walking away with her dignity intact, and later becoming the kind of mentor she never had, Dr. Terrell’s story is one that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like quitting.

This episode is for the new grads navigating toxic clinics, the seasoned vets reflecting on how to lead with more grace, and anyone wondering if it’s ever okay to say, “This isn’t working.”

Episode Outline

[00:00] – When Walking Away Is the Right Call

[00:46] – Meet Dr. Whitney Terrell

[03:00] – First Job Hopes and Missteps

[07:00] – Mentorship Promises vs. Reality

[10:00] – Breaking Down in Silence

[15:00] – Reaching a Tipping Point

[20:00] – Choosing Dignity and Moving On

[24:00] – Coming Full Circle

[28:00] – Starting Fresh with Relief Work

[32:00] – Mentorship Done Right

[36:00] – Finding Joy and Balance

Episode Links

Follow Dr. Whitney Terrell:

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.terrellpetvet

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.terrellpetvet

Follow Dr. Moriah McCauley:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.moriah.mccauley

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moriah-mccauley

Discover So You’re a Vet, Now What? the book and course: ​​https://www.drdavenicol.com/syav-class

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So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course

Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills. These are skills like client communication, so you have great relationships with clients. Emotional intelligence, so you've got great relationships with your teammates. Effective negotiation skills, so you can get paid what you are worth. Management of imposter syndrome, so you can have confidence in your abilities. And, how to build formidable resilience, so you can handle everything that comes your way. These are not just skills. They are prerequisites vital for success and financial and emotional wellbeing. This course serves as an essential stepping stone to your success. Dr. Dave will be your mentor as you go through 12-modules, helping you transition from being a student to a fully rounded veterinary professional. Visit www.drdavenicol.com/syav-class to learn more.