Seen, Valued, Energized: How Micro-Connections Build Thriving Veterinary Teams
In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Andi and Josh dive into one of their favorite culture renovation tools: high-quality connections (or as we like to say, micro-connections that pack a punch).
Inspired by the stories of MVP Joey Votto and NBA star Steph Curry, and grounded in the research of organizational psychologist Dr. Jane Dutton, this conversation explores how fleeting, positive moments between team members can change everything—from mood and motivation to retention and resilience.
In a profession where time is short and stress runs high, veterinary teams need more than coffee and courage. They need connection. And the best part? You do not need a retreat or a big budget to make it happen.
You’ll hear:
- What high-quality connections actually are—and why they matter in vet med
- How micro-interactions shift team energy and culture
- Why these connections are essential during stress and chaos
- The 3 science-backed pathways that make a connection “high-quality”
- Practical ways to create, model, and celebrate these moments at work
Whether you manage a clinic or assist in surgery, this episode shows how a little intentionality can spark a whole lot of wellbeing.
Resource Links
Episode Articles:
Title: The Power of High-Quality ConnectionsAuthor: Jane E. Dutton
Access URL (PDF from Center for Positive Organizations):
https://positiveorgs.bus.umich.edu/wp-content/uploads/HighQualityConnections.pdf
Title: Joey Votto and Steph Curry Found a Secret to Workplace Happiness. You Can, Too.Author: Rustin Dodd
URL: https://theathletic.com/5480823/2025/05/22/joey-votto-steph-curry-happiness/
(Subscription may be required)
What Do You Think? Reach out to us and let us know at Info@flourish.vet
Your Hosts:
Andi Davison LVT, CAPP, APPC
Josh Vaisman MAPPCP, CCFP
At Flourish Veterinary Consulting we renovate veterinary cultures. We diagnose what’s working, blueprint what’s next, and train every team member - blending positive psychology with real-world experience - so thriving becomes the norm, not the myth.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to High Quality Connections
00:40 Casual Conversation and Personal Updates
02:30 Excitement for Today's Topic
02:47 Defining High Quality Connections
03:23 Real-Life Examples of High Quality Connections
04:26 Exploring High Quality Connections in Professional Settings
06:28 Research and Articles on High Quality Connections
07:51 Stories of Joey Vato and Steph Curry
09:46 The Science Behind High Quality Connections
11:34 Personal Stories of High Quality Connections
13:10 The Impact of High Quality Connections in Vet Med
14:48 The Power of Using Names
15:38 High Quality Connections in Fast-Paced Environments
17:38 The Importance of Connection During Stressful Times
20:17 Building a Resilient Culture
21:36 Practical Tips for Creating High Quality Connections
27:49 Celebrating High Quality Connections
28:38 Florida Man Segment
30:39 Conclusion and Call to Action
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