#139: Stop The Overwhelm: Veterinary Productivity Secrets from the Getting Things Done Master. With David Allen

The Vet Vault: Fall In Love With Veterinary Science

Veterinary practice can be unpredictable, exhausting, and full of interruptions - not that conducive to getting things done, right? But what if you could handle it all with mind-like-water calm?

In this episode I pick the brain of productivity legend David Allen, creator of Getting Things Done (GTD), to show you exactly how. This isn’t about squeezing more into your day — it’s about cutting mental clutter, regaining focus, and feeling in control, even when it all hits the fan.You'll learn simple, actionable GTD strategies that busy vets can use today:

Master the 5 GTD steps for veterinary practice:

• Capture: Never lose track of to-dos in a busy clinic again
• Clarify: Break down complex patient tasks into clear next steps
• Organise: Build bulletproof systems your whole team can trust
• Reflect: Create powerful review routines for team rounds and personal clarity
• Engage: Focus on what matters, when it matters

Beat interruptions without losing your mind

• Why task-switching drains your brain — and what to do instead.
• The simple tools that keep you sane and focused.
• How to ‘park’ distractions and re-engage fast.

Transform team rounds and communication

• The secret to closing open loops (and reducing anxiety for everyone)
• How structured reflection makes complex caseloads manageable
• Balancing roles and flexibility for smooth team dynamics

Join us for Vets On Tour Wānaka, New Zealand, 10-15 August 2025. Limited Early Bird Tickets on sale now.

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Topics and Timestamps

03:09 Mind Like Water: The Key to Clarity

05:15 Challenges in Veterinary Productivity

20:33 Practical Tips for Capturing Tasks

28:58 Managing Multiple Projects and Tasks

29:26 The Importance of Knowing the Next Step

30:14 Dealing with Task Shifting and Interruptions

32:25 Organizing Physical and Mental Spaces

35:43 Team Dynamics and Productivity

38:02 Effective Rounds42:20 Balancing Defined Roles and Flexibility

47:35 Book recommendations

48:49 Pass along question