The Veterinary Marketing Podcast

In this episode, I’m diving deep into how artificial intelligence is completely transforming the world of search — and what that means for your veterinary business or practice. With AI tools like ChatGPT and Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) changing the way people find information, the old rules of SEO just don’t cut it anymore. I break down exactly how these new AI-driven search engines work, what’s changed, and why it’s so important for you to adapt your digital strategy right now if you want to stay visible and competitive. We’ll walk through the evolution of search, from those classic blue links to today’s instant, conversational AI answers. I’ll explain how different types of search queries — branded, transactional, and informational — are being impacted, and why building trust, authority, and verified content is more important than ever. You’ll get actionable tips on technical SEO, like using schema markup and structured data, plus strategies for optimizing your content for voice, video, and image-based search. I also cover how to strengthen your brand signals across all platforms, and why a multi-channel presence is key in this new era. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear roadmap for auditing your current digital presence and adapting your marketing to thrive in the age of AI-powered search. Whether you’re a practice owner, marketer, or just want to future-proof your business, this episode is packed with practical advice and next steps you can start implementing today. Don’t forget to check out the AI Search Audit tool I mention, and stay tuned for more updates on how to keep your veterinary marketing ahead of the curve! ‍

In this episode, I’m diving deep into one of the most important topics for veterinary practice owners and managers as we head into 2025: how to build a predictable, measurable, and scalable client acquisition system. If you’ve been feeling the pressure from economic uncertainty, changing pet owner behaviors, and the ever-growing competition from corporate groups, you’re not alone. I know firsthand how stressful it can be when your appointment book is packed one week and then unexpectedly quiet the next. The days of “if you build it, they will come” are long gone, and it’s time to get proactive about filling your schedule with the right clients. In this episode, I break down the three pillars that every modern veterinary practice needs to thrive: targeting, tracking, and scalability. I’ll walk you through how to identify and attract your ideal clients—those who truly value your services and fit your practice culture — using data from your PIMS and advanced targeting tools. We’ll talk about how to make your marketing efforts measurable, so you know exactly which campaigns are driving results (and which ones aren’t), using tools like call tracking, UTM parameters, and Google Analytics. And most importantly, I’ll share strategies for scaling your client acquisition so you can grow your practice predictably, avoid the feast-or-famine cycle, and respond quickly to slow periods with confidence. Whether you’re just starting to build your marketing system or looking to refine what you already have, I’ll also cover common pitfalls to avoid — like overcomplicating your campaigns, relying on gut feelings instead of data, and missing out on key tracking opportunities. By the end of this episode, you’ll have actionable steps to audit and improve your client acquisition process, plus expert recommendations to help you future-proof your practice. So grab a notebook, tune in, and let’s get your veterinary practice set up for measurable, sustainable growth in 2025 and beyond!

In this episode, I’m diving deep into how you can use artificial intelligence strategically in your veterinary marketing. AI is changing the game for practices everywhere, but I want to make sure you’re not just using it to crank out generic content. Instead, I’ll show you how to treat AI like a junior marketing employee — someone who needs your guidance, your brand’s unique voice, and a clear strategy to really make an impact. We’ll talk about why it’s so important to lead with strategy before you ever open up an AI tool, and I’ll share my favorite platforms and integrations that can save you time and help you get better results. Throughout the episode, I’ll walk you through five high-impact ways to use AI in your practice, from brainstorming content ideas and drafting posts, to repurposing your best material, doing quick research, and even creating custom images. I’ll give you practical frameworks for crafting effective AI prompts, so you get content that actually sounds like you and resonates with your clients. Plus, I’ll highlight some of the most common mistakes I see practices making with AI like relying on it for strategy or publishing unedited, off-brand content and show you how to avoid them. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear roadmap for using AI as a force multiplier in your marketing, not just a shortcut. I’ll challenge you to put these ideas into action right away by drafting and sending out a newsletter with AI’s help then tracking your results and refining your approach. If you’re ready to stand out in an AI-driven world and grow your practice with smarter, more authentic marketing, this episode is for you!

In this episode of the Veterinary Marketing Podcast, I’m diving deep into what it really takes to run successful Facebook (Meta) ads for your veterinary practice. Over the past decade, I’ve managed millions of dollars in ad spend for local businesses, and I’ve seen firsthand how tricky Meta ads can be for vets. Unlike e-commerce, where you can track every sale, veterinary services have a much more complex path from ad click to booked appointment. That’s why I’m breaking down the real-world strategies, common pitfalls, and proven tactics that actually work—so you don’t waste your budget or your time. We’ll start by talking about why Meta ads are uniquely challenging for veterinary practices, especially when it comes to tracking results and building the right marketing infrastructure. I’ll share why organic content is absolutely essential before you ever spend a dollar on ads, and how to use Facebook and Instagram as top-of-funnel platforms to build awareness and nurture potential clients. We’ll also cover the impact of iOS 14 privacy changes, how to set up tracking properly, and when Facebook ads are (and aren’t) a good fit for your practice. Plus, I’ll walk you through audience targeting, creative strategies, budgeting, and the importance of testing and iterating your campaigns. To bring it all together, I’ll share real-world success stories from practices that have launched grand openings, promoted events, and introduced new services using Meta ads. We’ll also talk about the long-term growth strategies you need—like CRM integration, email nurturing, and retargeting—to turn leads into loyal clients. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear roadmap for using Facebook and Instagram ads effectively, with actionable steps you can start implementing right away. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your ad campaigns to the next level, this episode is packed with insights to help your veterinary practice grow.

In this episode, I’m sharing my insights on why so many practices lose potential clients—not because of their medical skills or even their marketing, but simply because of how phone calls are handled. I’ll walk you through practical frameworks and real-world communication strategies that you can use to train your front desk staff to turn more inquiries into booked appointments. We’ll talk about the importance of empathy and how having value-based conversations can completely change the way clients perceive your practice. I’ll also give you actionable tips for handling common objections, so your team feels confident and prepared no matter what comes up on a call. Plus, I’ll show you how to track your results so you can see exactly what’s working and where there’s room for improvement. Whether you’re a practice owner, manager, or part of the front desk team, this episode is packed with tools and strategies to help you improve your client experience, increase your bookings, and ultimately grow your practice. So grab a notebook, tune in, and let’s make sure you’re turning every phone call into an opportunity for your practice to shine!

In this episode, we break down the real meaning of branding and why it’s the sum of every experience, every touchpoint, and every memory people have with your practice. Danielle shares some fantastic insights on how to go beyond just visuals—like logos and colors—and focus on the details that truly matter, from the way your team answers the phone to the scent in your waiting room. We talk about the three core branding questions every practice owner should ask before even thinking about design: What problem do you solve? How do you solve it differently? And who do you solve it for? Danielle also walks us through how to find your emotional core by channeling your “inner toddler” and asking “why” until you get to the heart of your brand’s purpose. We also dive into the importance of backing up your brand promises with real action, the difference between brand promises and core values, and why being authentic and consistent is key to building trust with both clients and your team. Danielle shares some great examples of employer branding, showing how practices can attract the right team members by being clear about who they are—and who they’re not. We cover how to maintain brand consistency as you scale, the importance of ongoing brand management, and how to keep your messaging human and specific in the age of AI. If you’re wondering when to start thinking about branding, Danielle’s advice is clear: the sooner, the better—ideally before you even open your doors. We also talk about why it’s okay (and actually necessary) to be picky about the clients you attract, and how serving everyone can actually hurt your brand in the long run. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your practice’s brand to the next level, this episode is packed with actionable tips, real-world examples, and expert advice to help you build a veterinary brand that resonates and endures. Tune in to learn how to create a brand that’s more than just a logo—it’s a lasting promise to your clients, your team, and your community.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rhys, a veterinary practice owner from Vancouver who brings a unique perspective thanks to his background in hospitality and his passion for building businesses that can thrive without the owner being tied to every detail. We dove deep into what it really takes to transform a veterinary practice from a self-employed job into a scalable, sellable business. Our conversation covered everything from the importance of building robust systems and standard operating procedures, to leveraging data-driven management and authentic marketing that truly reflects your practice’s identity. Throughout our discussion, Rhys shared actionable strategies for veterinary professionals who want to attract, engage, and retain clients—while also reclaiming their time and sanity. We talked about defining your mission and vision as the foundation for all your systems, the necessity of SOPs for consistency and delegation, and how to use key performance indicators (KPIs) to proactively manage your practice. We also explored pricing strategies that balance value and affordability, and the critical importance of client retention and lifetime value. Rhys even provided a toolkit of resources and calculators to help practice owners make informed decisions about hiring, budgeting, and pricing. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your established practice to the next level, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world examples. We wrapped up by discussing how to adapt to the future, especially with the rise of corporate competition and shifting market dynamics. My goal with this episode is to give you the insights and tools you need to build a veterinary practice that works for you—not the other way around. If you’re ready to create a business that can run (and grow) without your constant presence, you won’t want to miss this conversation!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Sheila Fitzpatrick, a seasoned expert in veterinary practice management and valuation. We dove deep into the complexities of selling veterinary practices, exploring everything from the current market landscape to the nuances of selling to corporate buyers versus private individuals. Dr. Fitzpatrick shared invaluable insights on the importance of exit planning and how it can significantly impact the success of a sale. We also discussed the viability of both private and corporate sales, with Dr. Fitzpatrick highlighting that while corporate buyers often pay higher multiples, many veterinarians prefer selling to private individuals to maintain the essence of their practice. We also touched on the importance of understanding market trends and projections. Dr. Fitzpatrick emphasized the need for practice owners to attend town planning meetings to gain insights into local growth, which can be crucial when considering practice acquisitions. Additionally, she stressed the importance of early exit planning, ideally starting five years before a sale. This involves financial assessments, professional valuations, and preparing the business for a smooth transition. We also discussed the pros and cons of leasing versus owning real estate for veterinary practices, with ownership offering more control and stability. Moreover, Dr. Fitzpatrick shared strategies for enhancing practice value, such as diversifying services and leveraging technology. By investing in advanced diagnostic equipment and expanding service offerings, practices can increase their appeal to potential buyers. We also covered the impact of rising interest rates on practice sales and the challenges of recruitment and retention in the veterinary field. Dr. Fitzpatrick provided practical tips for effective marketing strategies, emphasizing the role of digital marketing and community engagement in attracting and retaining clients. Overall, this episode is packed with expert advice and actionable strategies for veterinary practice owners looking to navigate the complexities of selling their business.

In our latest episode, I had the pleasure of diving deep into the world of email marketing with some fantastic guests from Family Pet Health. Joining me were Michael Shirley, co-owner of Family Pet Health, Stephen Shirley, their Director of Operations, and Haley Cameron, who handles social media and public outreach. We explored how veterinary practices can harness the power of email marketing to not only attract new clients but also engage and retain existing ones. This episode is packed with actionable insights that any veterinary practice can implement to boost their email marketing game. We kicked things off by discussing the current state of email marketing at Family Pet Health. Michael shared how their email efforts have been somewhat sporadic, primarily focusing on informational content. However, they've recently ramped up their email frequency, sending out more emails in the last few months than they did in the previous nine months combined. The challenge, as Michael pointed out, has been incorporating strong calls to action in these emails. We then delved into their specific goals, like increasing dental compliance and raising awareness about their fear-free certification. Stephen highlighted the ongoing challenge of improving heartworm compliance, emphasizing the need for better communication with clients. We also touched on the tools they're using, like Pet Desk and Mailchimp, and how they plan to leverage these platforms more effectively. One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the importance of setting clear expectations with clients regarding email frequency and content. We discussed strategies like welcome sequences for new subscribers, win-back sequences for lapsed clients, and nurturing emails that provide valuable information while encouraging action. Michael stressed the need for educational content that guides clients on the next steps, whether that's booking an appointment or learning more about specific services. Haley shared her experiences with community outreach events and how email marketing plays a crucial role in promoting these initiatives. We wrapped up by discussing the value of client feedback and how being responsive can help create a collaborative relationship with clients. Overall, this episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for any veterinary practice looking to enhance their email marketing efforts.

In episode 287, I dive into some exciting strategies to help veterinary practices not just survive but truly thrive as we head into 2025. With my background in managing over $38 million in ad spend specifically for veterinary hospitals, I've gathered some valuable insights into effective marketing strategies, content creation, and client engagement. In this episode, I break down these strategies into actionable steps, aiming to guide you through the ever-evolving marketing landscape with confidence and clarity. One of the key topics I explore is the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing. While AI's evolution has been a bit slower than anticipated, its potential to revolutionize content creation and customer engagement is undeniable. I predict that 2025 will be a pivotal year for AI-driven tools, especially in areas like content automation and customer service chatbots. Imagine being able to generate blog posts, social media updates, and email newsletters effortlessly with AI tools like Jasper or Copy.ai. Plus, implementing AI chatbots on your website can handle common inquiries and appointment bookings, freeing up your staff for more complex tasks. But as AI makes content creation easier, the quality and relevance of your content become crucial. That's why I emphasize the importance of standing out by leveraging your unique experiences and insights to connect with clients on a deeper level. Whether it's through niche expertise or compelling storytelling, these strategies can help you build a loyal community around your practice. Another significant focus of the episode is on creating hyper-personalized offers. Understanding your clients' specific needs and preferences allows you to tailor services that truly resonate with them. By segmenting clients using your CRM based on factors like pet type, age, and health conditions, you can craft targeted offers that speak directly to each segment. Additionally, developing a value ascension ladder can guide clients from initial services to more comprehensive care options, encouraging them to explore additional services that benefit their pets. I also discuss the importance of retention marketing systems, such as personalized follow-up campaigns and client appreciation events, to nurture long-term relationships. Investing in a robust CRM system is crucial for automating follow-ups, managing client communications, and tracking engagement. By focusing on these strategies, you can enhance client engagement, drive growth, and ensure your practice is well-prepared for the future. If you're looking for more personalized advice, feel free to reach out to me via LinkedIn or through the Veterinary Marketing Podcast website. I'm here to help your practice succeed in the coming years!