Ep 240: When Your Mentorship Fails, with Dr. Lindsey Hedges - Part 2

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

In this episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?", host Dr. Moriah McCauley continues her conversation with Dr. Lindsey Hedges, Senior Director of Veterinary Mentorship at Mission Veterinary Partners, diving deeper into the theme of mentorship in veterinary medicine.

They reflect on the importance of intentional mentorship, discussing how regular check-ins and open communication can significantly enhance the mentoring experience for both mentors and mentees. Dr. Hedges shares insights on the challenges mentors face, particularly around providing surgical time and appropriate scheduling, and emphasizes the need for mentors to actively engage with their mentees to understand their needs. This episode is a valuable resource for both current and aspiring mentors looking to improve their mentoring skills and create a more supportive environment for veterinary professionals. Tune in to gain practical tips and learn how to foster effective mentorship in your practice.

Dr. Hedges is the Senior Director of Veterinary Mentorship at Mission Veterinary Partners. A 2011 graduate of Purdue University CVM, she worked as an associate veterinarian for three years before opening her own denovo small animal clinic. In creating her practice, she was guided by her passions for fostering leadership in all employees, promoting Fear Free practices, and forming strong bonds in the community.

She has facilitated the Indiana VMA Power of 10 Leadership program since 2015 and currently sits on the IVMA Executive Board. Dr. Hedges is an avid board game geek and hosts monthly Dungeons and Dragons sessions with her friends. She lives in Lebanon, IN with her husband, two cats, and two dogs.

Episode Outline

[00:01:46] Mentor skills development.

[00:05:19] Mentorship and feedback dynamics.

[00:09:06] Safe words for feedback conversations.

[00:11:36] Surgical experience through mentorship.

[00:17:07] Surgical skills development.

[00:20:02] Mentorship in veterinary careers.

Episode Links

Connect with Dr. Lindsey Hedges:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlindseyhedges/

Mentioned in this episode:

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.