In this episode of The Veterinary Culture Lab, Andi and Josh explore what coaching really means in veterinary medicine—and why curiosity might be the most powerful tool we have to strengthen culture.
Grounded in a 2021 meta-analysis of workplace coaching, this conversation unpacks how three evidence-based approaches—GROW, Positive Psychology Coaching, and Cognitive Behavioral Coaching—can help veterinary teams build confidence, connection, and wellbeing. Andi and Josh share why coaching is not advice-giving or mentoring, but a structured, science-backed conversation that helps people clarify goals, see reality more fully, explore new options, and take meaningful steps forward.
From donuts and Ted Lasso to the science of empowerment and agency, this episode will leave you rethinking the way you talk with your team—and why “ask, don’t tell” is the secret to renovating workplace culture.
You’ll hear:
- Why coaching is different from advice, therapy, or mentoring
- What the research says about coaching’s impact on performance and wellbeing
- How GROW, Positive Psychology Coaching, and Cognitive Behavioral Coaching each support veterinary teams
- Why curiosity is the throughline of effective coaching conversations
- Simple ways to practice curiosity—even on busy, chaotic days
Whether you’re leading a team, mentoring a new grad, or simply hoping for more meaningful workplace conversations, this episode offers a hopeful, practical look at how coaching can change the way veterinary teams connect and thrive.
Resource Links:
Episode Article:
Title: The effectiveness of workplace coaching: A meta-analysis of contemporary psychologically informed coaching approaches
Authors:Qing Wang, Yiming Lai, Jian Xu, & Almuth McDowall
DOI: 10.1108/JWAM-04-2021-0030
Ted Lasso Official Trailer (Season 1) - we wouldn’t want to give too much away now would we?
Ted Lasso - Available on Apple TV
Florida Man This Week - Hot Pink and Naked
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 Coaching in Veterinary Medicine
00:42 Casual Conversation and Weekend Plans
01:35 Horse Training and Competitions
04:46 Ted Lasso Fandom
07:43 The Essence of Coaching
08:56 The Importance of Coaching in VetMed
12:27 Research on Coaching Effectiveness
14:13 Popular Coaching Models
16:31 Integrating Coaching Models
20:32 Identifying Progress and Strengths
21:11 The Power of Curiosity in Coaching
22:52 Maintaining Curiosity Amidst Chaos
24:03 Practical Tips for Staying Curious
27:33 Curiosity in Veterinary Culture
34:02 Teasing the Next Episode
35:06 Florida Man and Closing Remarks
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