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Peter & Phil's Courageous Conversations

Peter & Phil's Courageous Conversations

By Dr. Peter Weinstein & Dr. Phillip Nelson

A phone call, prompted by George Floyd's death, brings two veterinarians from two different races together to discuss their perspectives on pivotal issues affecting America today. Join Peter and Phil's Courageous Conversations Podcast - then start a courageous conversation of your own!
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What About Your Friends?

Peter & Phil's Courageous ConversationsApr 29, 2022

00:00
31:38
Veterinary Workforce Matters: Navigating Accreditation, Collaboration, and Leadership in Organized Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary Workforce Matters: Navigating Accreditation, Collaboration, and Leadership in Organized Veterinary Medicine

The conversation with Dr. Janet Donilon continues our conversation with various topics related to workforce issues in the veterinary profession. The chapters include discussions on the role of AVMA in accrediting new schools, the history and purpose of accreditation, the accreditation process and standards, provisional accreditation and ongoing compliance, the separation of motivation and accreditation, accreditation in a global context, considerations for adding new schools, the long-term impact of new schools on the workforce, challenges of building consistency in state practice acts, the importance of collaboration and communication in organized veterinary medicine, challenges of achieving uniformity in state practice acts, engaging the next generation and future leaders, the role of organized veterinary medicine in collaboration and communication, and the need for mentoring and leadership training.

Mar 21, 202428:48
Accrediting the Future: Dr. Janet Donlin on Shaping Vet Education and Employment

Accrediting the Future: Dr. Janet Donlin on Shaping Vet Education and Employment

Join us for part 2 this week as we talk all things workforce - from the current squeeze on workers to how the pandemic's shaken things up! Dr. Donlin lays out why it's crucial to think ahead about who we'll need in the veterinary world down the line. Plus, we get into the hot debate over the vet shortage. She highlights how vet organizations and big regulatory and accrediting bodies play their parts and how to make the most of vet teams for the long haul. Dr. Donlin is all about teamwork and mixing up strategies to tackle these challenges and we're excited to have her back to continue our conversation with her!

Mar 07, 202424:34
A Dialogue on Diversity, Well-being, and Change with Dr. Janet Donlin

A Dialogue on Diversity, Well-being, and Change with Dr. Janet Donlin

In this insightful installment join Dr. Peter Weinstein, Dr. Philip Nelson, and their esteemed guest, Dr. Janet Donlin, Executive Director of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), as they delve into critical discussions surrounding the veterinary field. This episode covers a wide range of pivotal topics including the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, the overall well-being of veterinary professionals, and the challenges facing the workforce today. Listen as Dr. Donlin recounts her unique journey into the world of veterinary science, highlighting the critical role of organized veterinary groups in molding the future of the profession. The conversation shines a light on the collective responsibility of professionals to foster change and cultivate a supportive and positive environment in veterinary workplaces. Join us!

Feb 22, 202425:55
Phil's Journey: The Next Chapter

Phil's Journey: The Next Chapter

Join us as we embark on a journey with Dr. Phil Nelson, who, after retiring from one academic institution, is now spearheading the establishment of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Chamberlain University. In this episode, we dive into the nuances and challenges of creating a new school from the ground up. Discover the critical importance of hands-on technical skills in the veterinary field and how the post-pandemic world opens doors for integrating advanced technology into education. Dr. Nelson shares his vision for making Chamberlain University a beacon of innovation and accessibility in veterinary training. Tune in to uncover the exciting prospects of new beginnings and transformative education in veterinary science!



Chapters


00:00 Introduction and Appreciation

01:02 Dr. Nelson's New Role at Chamberlain University

02:25 Chamberlain University and its Background

03:21 Experience in the Veterinary Field

04:47 Collaboration and Sharing of Faculty

06:15 Implementing Recommendations from the Pew Study

07:44 Advancements in Technology and Innovation

09:34 The Role of Technology in Education

10:28 PBL and Distributive Model in Education

13:54 Lessons Learned from the Pandemic

15:19 The Importance of Hands-on Technical Skills

17:39 Potential Expansion to Credential Technician School

19:06 Anticipated Graduation of the First Class

21:03 Innovations and Brainstorms for Chamberlain University

23:21 Investment and Conclusion


Feb 08, 202427:05
The Prism of Leadership

The Prism of Leadership

In this conversation, Peter and Phil discuss the challenges of leadership in various contexts, including business, government, and universities. They express their concerns about the lack of trust and faith in many global leaders and the need for strong leadership. The importance of effective communication in leadership is emphasized, with a focus on explaining the 'why' behind decisions. The concept of the prism of leadership is introduced, highlighting the distortion of messages and the need for active involvement in interpreting and sending messages.


Takeaways

  • Strong leadership is foundational to success in various domains, including business, government, and universities.
  • Effective communication is crucial in leadership, and leaders should explain the 'why' behind their decisions.
  • Messages from leaders can be distorted or misunderstood, and it is important for followers to actively seek the truth and question the messages they receive.
  • The current era presents challenges for leadership, and there is a need for better leaders and stronger communicators.


Jan 26, 202436:53
Economic Tails: The Evolving Economics of Vet Med Post-COVID

Economic Tails: The Evolving Economics of Vet Med Post-COVID

Welcome back! In this season 4 opener, Peter & Phil return to discuss the ever-changing cost of veterinary care debate and the economic impact COVID had on veterinary practices. Peter provides an in-depth analysis of the current economic landscape in veterinary medicine, highlighting how the pandemic has led to slower business and increased prices.

  • Shift in Operational Needs: The hosts discuss the evolving needs of veterinary practice staff, especially contrasting the expectations of the current workforce with those of the boomer generation. A notable focus is on the increased demand for family leave and other work-life balance measures.

  • Consumer Response to Rising Costs: Phil leads a conversation on how pet owners are responding to the heightened costs of veterinary care, including instances of pushback and how practices are managing these challenges.

  • Statistical Overview: Peter delves into relevant statistics that shed light on the trends and challenges faced by veterinary practices in the post-COVID era.


    Join us for all these talking points and more!

  • Jan 19, 202448:54
    From Israel to the Dinner Table: A Candid Chat with Tracy Dowdy

    From Israel to the Dinner Table: A Candid Chat with Tracy Dowdy

    In this year-end episode of Peter & Phil's Courageous Conversations, we're joined by special guest Tracy Dowdy for a discussion on Israel and Palestine.

    As the conversation unfolds, Peter steers the dialogue towards a topic that resonates with many during the holiday season: politics around the dinner table. Tracy shares her firsthand experiences from a visit to Israel and reflects on the intersections of Christianity and the region's geopolitical landscape.

    This episode is not just an exploration of international affairs but also a guide on handling politically charged conversations with family and friends during the holidays. It's a discussion filled with nuanced perspectives and courageous conversations that you won't want to miss. Join us for this enlightening episode that promises to close the year with new understandings.

    Dec 07, 202327:55
    Tracy Dowdy Talks Critical Race Theory and Family Ideals

    Tracy Dowdy Talks Critical Race Theory and Family Ideals

    In part 2 of our chat, Tracy Dowdy is back, and this time we're really getting into it! We're diving headfirst into Critical Race Theory, chatting about what it means for schools and society as a whole. But that's not all – we're also taking a look at the nuclear family and how it's changing. Expect some fiery but always respectful conversations. If you're into trending topics, this episode's got your name on it! 🎧🔥

    Nov 30, 202327:46
    Skewed Views : An Interview with Mark Cushing

    Skewed Views : An Interview with Mark Cushing

    In this interview, Peter and Phil interview Mark Cushing, JD, the Founder and CEO of the  Animal Policy Group, LLC., and discuss growing up seeing discrimination towards members of the Catholic church, and America's skewed views on immigration. This is a conversation you definitely won't want to miss.

    Nov 19, 202328:49
    The Courage To Disagree: A Conversation with Conservative Tracy Dowdy

    The Courage To Disagree: A Conversation with Conservative Tracy Dowdy

    Peter and Phil engage in a thought-provoking dialogue with special guest & veterinary consultant, Tracy Dowdy (who proudly identifies as a conservative Republican and devout Christian). This episode explores Tracy's upbringing and how her family values and faith have shaped her worldview.  


    In this episode, Peter and Phil have a respectful and candid discussion about Tracy's stances regarding critical race theory, religion, & vet medicine practices, allowing listeners to gain insights into differing perspectives. In addition, they all acknowledge the prevailing sentiment that controversial issues are often avoided in workplace conversations and the importance of challenging this norm.  Join us and see what happens when people are willing to engage in open and respectful conversations, even on divisive subjects.  It's an episode you won't want to miss! Join the conversation.

    Nov 16, 202332:18
    Shock Waves: Money, Media & Mindsets

    Shock Waves: Money, Media & Mindsets

    This week, join hosts Peter and Phil as they delve into the heart of Phil's recent journey back to his southern hometown in Mississippi. The trip takes an unexpected turn when Phil encounters the provocative rants of a local radio host, whose views on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) stir a deep discomfort. Phil challenges Peter's dismissal of the host as merely a profit-chaser, igniting a fiery debate between the two. Tune in for this raw and introspective session where no topic is off-limits and every conversation is a step towards understanding.

    Nov 09, 202341:47
    Bridging Beliefs: Perspectives on the Israel-Hamas Conflict

    Bridging Beliefs: Perspectives on the Israel-Hamas Conflict

    Peter & Phil delve into a candid courageous conversation that bridges the personal with the global. Peter opens up about his Jewish upbringing, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into the customs and significance of the Sabbath. They also address the ongoing conflict in Israel, providing a nuanced overview of the recent escalations between Hamas and Israel, and the impact on both Israeli and Palestinian lives. Throughout the discussion, they strive for a balanced perspective, underscoring the human element that often gets lost in the political narrative. This episode does not shy away from complexity so join us for another courageous conversation!

    Nov 03, 202352:29
    Get Your House in Order!

    Get Your House in Order!

    In this episode, Peter & Phil delve into the tumultuous events that unfolded in the House of Representatives last week, marked by a striking failure to elect a Speaker. Amidst the uncertainty, we discuss the various candidates who were in the running for the Speaker position and one party's unwillingness to vote. *This episode was recorded prior to the eventual vote on the Speaker, Mike Johnson of Louisiana - providing a real-time snapshot of the chaos and speculation swirling around Capitol Hill before Oct. 25, 2023. Tune in this week for a comprehensive analysis of one of the most dramatic moments in recent political history!

    Oct 27, 202341:00
    Courageous Connections: Tales from the Road
    Oct 20, 202338:53
    Melodies & Memories

    Melodies & Memories

    From vinyl records to digital streaming - Peter & Phil discuss the impact music has had on their lives, both past, present, and future. Join us for another fun, courageous conversation!

    Oct 12, 202333:19
    Discrimination: An Interview with Mark Cushing Part 2

    Discrimination: An Interview with Mark Cushing Part 2

    Peter & Phil continue their conversation with a very poignant question from Mark Cushing regarding discrimination. Tune in to listen to more of the conversation!

    Oct 06, 202322:58
    The Vocal Minority

    The Vocal Minority

    Peter explains his fear that the United States may be moving backward with its government handing more power to each state. Phil corrects him by stating that America never moved as far as we thought to begin with and there is more work needed. Join us in this episode as they discuss politics and the "loud minority."

    Sep 21, 202338:14
    The Current Civil War: All that Changed Was the Battlefield

    The Current Civil War: All that Changed Was the Battlefield

    Peter & Phil discuss how transgressions of yesterday have bled into a modern-day civil war. Join us for another courageous conversation!

    Sep 15, 202334:11
    Hi(s)tory is Confusing.

    Hi(s)tory is Confusing.

    Peter & Phil continue their conversation on age and delve into the many sides of history that aren't covered. When history becomes just his story can we trust it without looking at the different perspectives/ sides to it? This is truly another courageous conversation you won't want to miss.

    Sep 07, 202311:35
    Gracefully Aging

    Gracefully Aging

    Peter & Phil have an honest conversation about aging. Medical technology has come a long way, and people are living longer than previous generations. Thoughts on aging, or what is considered "old" has changed as well. Have your views changed on aging the older you've gotten? Tune in to this week's episode & then share your thoughts with us on all social media platforms @peterandphil.

    Sep 01, 202319:18
    Final Thoughts with Rob Best

    Final Thoughts with Rob Best

    Peter & Phil conclude their conversation with Rob Best and dive deeper into the profession of veterinary medicine.

    Aug 24, 202330:07
    A Color Blind Future? : An Interview with Rob Best (Part 2)

    A Color Blind Future? : An Interview with Rob Best (Part 2)

    Peter and Phil continue their conversation with Rob Best this week & discuss what it was like watching his black father navigate through the world. They also discuss the nonprofit youth organization Students for the Advancement of Global Leadership (more info at www.sageglobal.org and the great steps they have taken to help the future leaders of the world. It's another Courageous Conversation you won't want to miss!

    Aug 17, 202336:20
    Passing: An Interview With Rob Best

    Passing: An Interview With Rob Best

    Peter and Phil interview international keynote speaker, Rob Best, CVPM, CFN about growing up mixed race (black & white) yet passing more as white. In this interview, Rob discusses his address at the Hill's Juneteenth event and how speaking on his family history helped him learn even more about his roots. Rob also touches on how sports helped him to blend into different cultural environments as a child and the differences he now faces blending as an adult. It's truly a courageous conversation you do not want to miss!

    Aug 10, 202341:59
    The Round About

    The Round About

    Peter and Phil discuss the latest ruling on Affirmative Action and what it means for college admissions. Will it restrict access to quality education or will colleges step up and continue to take the lead? Phil also stresses the importance of reading the bills and decisions and making up one's own opinion versus accepting what is told to us via the news. Join us for another courageous conversation.

    Aug 03, 202355:26
    The MLK Influence

    The MLK Influence

    Phil tells Peter he was influenced by Martin Luther King, especially watching him as a child during the 60's. Grab the book King, A Life by Johnathan E.I.G. and join in this discussion as well!

    Jul 27, 202317:23
    From HS Student Government to a Politics?

    From HS Student Government to a Politics?

    Peter & Phil discuss Phil's leadership roles from high school through Vet Med School. Is Phil considering a political run in his hometown? Tune in to find out!

    Jul 20, 202333:32
    Not Black Enough?

    Not Black Enough?

    Phil starts discussing the book Eloquent Rage by Brittney Cooper, and Peter asks Phil if he was ever made to feel as though he wasn't "black enough" at any point himself. This leads them into another courageous conversation on the integration of Phil's high school and how he handled a Student Body President race that came down to only a few votes between him and his white opponent. It's an episode you won't want to miss!

    Jul 14, 202320:16
    Diversity in Vet Tech Programs with Beckie Mossor

    Diversity in Vet Tech Programs with Beckie Mossor

    Peter and Phil address diversity in the Vet Tech programs as well as other concerns with special guest Beckie Mossor. Join us for the second half of last week's discussion regarding the Vet Tech profession!

    Jul 06, 202339:04
    The Future of Vet Techs: An interview with Beckie Mossor

    The Future of Vet Techs: An interview with Beckie Mossor

    Peter & Phil bring in a special guest and Vet Tech, Beckie Mossor, RVT, to discuss the role of the Vet tech, reasons for the current Vet Tech shortage, and gain insight into this growing profession. Join us for another courageous conversation.

    Jun 30, 202301:00:48
    Telehealth in Vet Medicine

    Telehealth in Vet Medicine

    Peter & Phil have a discussion on the pros and cons of telehealth in the Vet med profession. Love it or hate it, it's here to stay. Join the discussion!

    Jun 22, 202314:12
    Peter & Phil's Three Year Anniversary: First Episode Recap

    Peter & Phil's Three Year Anniversary: First Episode Recap

    This week marks the 3rd anniversary of Peter & Phil's conversations, with over three years and seasons of courageous conversations! To honor their anniversary, this week will be a revisit to their initial discussion where Peter calls Phil to try to understand what is happening after George Floyd's death and protests. We welcome you to take a listen to the conversation that started it all and tell us - how much you think has changed since then. How much further do we still have to go?

    Jun 15, 202318:49
    The Future of Veterinary Medicine Education

    The Future of Veterinary Medicine Education

    Phil has retired and stepped down as Dean at Western University's Vet Med School. Peter & Phil discuss his next possible move, and the future of Vet Med education.

    Jun 09, 202333:19
    The Impact of Mentoring

    The Impact of Mentoring

    Mentoring has become such an important contribution to the vet med profession, Peter and Phil decided to dedicate a podcast to discuss it.  Join us this week for a discussion on mentors, a few who influenced their lives, and the overall incredible importance of mentoring!

    Jun 01, 202346:00
     Mental Health in Vet Medicine : An Interview with Dr. Andrew Maccabe, Director of AAVMC, Part 2

    Mental Health in Vet Medicine : An Interview with Dr. Andrew Maccabe, Director of AAVMC, Part 2

    Peter and Phil welcome back Dr. Andrew Maccabe, Director of AAVMC. The importance of one's mental health has become a national discussion, but just how important is it to make sure we have a conversation around it specifically in the Vet Med profession? Join us in today's episode as we discuss!

    May 25, 202330:47
    Part 1: Interview with Dr. Andrew Maccabe, Director of AAVMC on Diversity in Vet Medicine

    Part 1: Interview with Dr. Andrew Maccabe, Director of AAVMC on Diversity in Vet Medicine

    Peter and Phil welcome Dr. Andrew Maccabe, Director of AAVMC on today's podcast. Join us as they get his take on Diversity in Vet Medicine, his personal journey regarding the topic, and some insight on the importance of diverse mindsets in the profession. Take a listen to part one of the conversation and come back next week for part 2!

    May 18, 202301:10:15
    The Loudest Voices

    The Loudest Voices

    After another school shooting occurs in Nashville, Peter & Phil take on gun reform and the safety of our schools and children. Are the loudest voices in politics, truly the ones that represent the entire country, or is it politics over people as usual? Join us in another courageous conversation.

    May 12, 202339:53
    The Abandonment of Fair Play

    The Abandonment of Fair Play

    On April 6, 2023, Tennessee Republicans expelled two Democratic lawmakers from the state Legislature due to their protesting for more gun control. A one-vote margin narrowly spared a third Democrat. Peter & Phil give their take on the incident and discuss the abandonment of rules regarding fair play and the legislature. Join us this week for another courageous conversation!

    May 04, 202328:06
    Tenure & Term Limits

    Tenure & Term Limits

    Peter asks Phil, the recently retired former Dean of Western University, his thoughts on tenure for faculty and term limits in legislation. Is he for or against both? His answer may just surprise you! Join us for another courageous conversation and let us know your thoughts as well.

    Apr 28, 202344:18
    Part 2: Economics, Wellness, & DEI (With Special Guest Dr. Jose Arce)

    Part 2: Economics, Wellness, & DEI (With Special Guest Dr. Jose Arce)

    Peter & Phil continue last week's conversation with special guest Dr. Jose Arce discussing economics, wellness, & diversity. Join us for part 2 of last week's courageous conversation.

    Apr 20, 202345:43
    Part 1: Economics, Wellness, & DEI (With Special Guest Dr. Jose Arce)

    Part 1: Economics, Wellness, & DEI (With Special Guest Dr. Jose Arce)

    Peter & Phil invite special guest Dr. Jose Arce from the beautiful US island of Puerto Rico to join in a courageous conversation. They discuss the financing of vet med education, career outlooks in the field, DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion), and other significant matters Dr. Arce deems priorities in the profession. Join us for another courageous conversation!

    Apr 13, 202337:28
    The Ugly Truth about Banning Books

    The Ugly Truth about Banning Books

    Peter & Phil dive into the world of banned books this week and touch on states' interference in the public school curriculum. Is this gesture new or something we've seen before? Join us this week as we continue the courageous conversation on this and much more!

    Apr 06, 202326:30
     Freedom of Speech?

    Freedom of Speech?

    In this episode, Peter and Phil discuss what freedom of speech looks like in the modern day. With more access to social media platforms people have access to more people than ever before, but should there be boundaries set in place on these platforms? Peter & Phil discuss the Twitter takeover of Elon Musk, plus banning of books and critical race theory teachings. Join us for another courageous conversation!

    Mar 30, 202339:50
    Part 2: Lack of Diversity in the Veterinary Medicine Profession : An Interview with Lisa Greenhill

    Part 2: Lack of Diversity in the Veterinary Medicine Profession : An Interview with Lisa Greenhill

    This week Peter and Phil close out their interview by addressing the lack of diversity in the Vet Med profession. They propose changes to educational opportunities and increasing funding to "at-risk" communities (they also discuss why they oppose the use of the term "at-risk"). Dr. Lisa Greenhill also expresses her viewpoint on "resilience". Join us for part two of last week's courageous conversation!

    Mar 23, 202340:48
    Part 1: Lack of Diversity in the Vet Med Profession: An Interview with Dr. Lisa Greenhill

    Part 1: Lack of Diversity in the Vet Med Profession: An Interview with Dr. Lisa Greenhill

    Peter & Phil sit down and have a courageous conversation with Chief Diversity Officer and Senior Director for Institutional Research, Dr. Lisa Greenhill.  Joining the AAVMC in 1996 her work primarily focuses on the ongoing development and implementation of the DiVersity Matters initiative at the national and local levels and promoting the veterinary medical profession within underrepresented and marginalized communities.  Join us to discuss diversity within the Vet Med community and other social injustice initiatives!  It's a conversation you won't want to miss. 

    Mar 16, 202350:11
    The End of Affirmative Action?

    The End of Affirmative Action?

    The United States Supreme Court is set to decide the future of race-conscious admissions in higher education – and potentially alter or end affirmative action for students everywhere. Peter asks Phil his thoughts on the Supreme Court hearings around affirmative action and race-conscious admissions, and it leads into another thought-provoking courageous conversation between the two!  Tune in this week!

    Mar 09, 202322:04
    Access to Quality Care Pt. 2 (with special guests Dr. Emily Tincher & Dr. Jules Benson)

    Access to Quality Care Pt. 2 (with special guests Dr. Emily Tincher & Dr. Jules Benson)

    This week Peter & Phil continue their conversation with special guests from Nationwide, Dr. Emily Tincher & Dr. Jules Benson.   Join us in our Part 2 series, as we dive more in-depth into pet quality of life issues, available protection options for pet owners, and ways to change up the current veterinary business model so that it serves more people and veterinarians.  It's another great courageous conversation you'll want to tune into!

    Mar 02, 202351:15
    Access to Quality Pet Healthcare: Pt. 1 (with special guests Dr. Emily Tincher & Dr. Jules Benson)

    Access to Quality Pet Healthcare: Pt. 1 (with special guests Dr. Emily Tincher & Dr. Jules Benson)

    Peter & Phil welcome special guests Dr. Emily Tincher & Dr. Jules Benson from Nationwide.  In this episode, they address numerous topics affecting patrons of the vet med community, including access to pet healthcare, quality of care, and possible solutions to help evolve the healthcare profession in the future.  Follow us here for part 2 of the conversation (coming next week) where they discuss the standard of pet care and the current Vet Med business model in more depth!

    Feb 23, 202342:00
    The Denial of America's Dark Past

    The Denial of America's Dark Past

    Peter and Phil discuss the decline in movie-going, due to the uptick of streaming services.  When the conversation turns into recent documentaries, Phil shares one he saw on Indian children being separated from their families and abused in schools meant to 'beat the savage' out of them during the 1800s.  That leads to another discussion on America's dark past.  We learn about Stalin, Castro, & Hitler - why aren't we taught more about our own atrocities?  Peter and Phil dive right into another truly courageous conversation.  Join us!

    Feb 16, 202322:14
    It's Relatively Mental

    It's Relatively Mental

    Peter and Phil pick up last week's discussion on resiliency.  Join us this week as Phil discusses some of the challenges he faced when determining which Vet Med program to attend and how mental health is an important issue to undertake when helping people remain resilient in the face of adversity.  

    Feb 09, 202329:35
    Resilience Through Adversity (Pt. 1)

    Resilience Through Adversity (Pt. 1)

    A proud Peter shares his daughter's upcoming graduation from Vet Med School which leads into a conversation on resilience.  What trials and tribulations are the upcoming classes having to deal with?  Is the term resiliency overused or just misused?  Peter and Phil discuss this and more in this week's episode.  

    Feb 02, 202322:28