Smarter Vet Financial Podcast

Hosted by Florida Veterinary Advisors

Business EducationInterviews guestsExplicit

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Episodes

307

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Want to feel more confident and in control of your finances? The Smarter Vet Financial Podcast is your go-to resource for fresh, energizing perspectives on money—created just for veterinarians. Hosts Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett, founders of Florida Veterinary Advisors, break down personal and business financial topics in a way that’s easy to understand and fun to explore. With inspiring interviews and practical advice, you’ll gain the clarity you need to stress less and enjoy more of what you love in life and work.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 12, 202629 min

Episode 204 - 3 of 4: How to Turn Your Practice Sale Cash Into Income

Send us Fan MailSelling your veterinary practice can create a significant financial milestone—but it also introduces a new challenge: how do you turn that lump sum into reliable income?In Part 3 of this 4-part series, Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett break down what happens after the sale and why many veterinarians feel uncertain about their financial future. From income gaps and market risk to tax considerations and lifestyle changes, this episode explores the real concerns practice owners face.You’ll also learn a strategic framework designed to help create more clarity and confidence around income planning—so your next chapter feels as steady as the one you built.🎧 Tune in to start thinking differently about what comes next.Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances:5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment:Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice:Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

June 5, 202630 min

Episode 203 - 2 of 4: The 5 Years Before Selling Your Practice Matter Most

Send us Fan MailThe five years before you exit your veterinary practice matter more than you think—and waiting too long could cost you significantly.In this episode, CJ Burnett and Tom Seeko break down the critical planning window leading up to a sale and why many practice owners delay the process longer than they should. From improving profitability and cleaning up reporting to building a management team and planning for life after the sale, they walk through what actually drives practice value.They also highlight common mistakes owners make—like relying too heavily on revenue instead of profit, mixing personal expenses into the business, and underestimating the emotional side of selling.If you want to maximize your practice value and create a smoother transition, this episode will help you start thinking like a business owner—not just a veterinarian.Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances:5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment:Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice:Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

May 29, 202629 min

From Big Decisions to Bigger Impact: Leadership Lessons with Dr. Emily King

Send us Fan MailVeterinarians often feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, and unsure of how to lead effectively while maintaining balance—but it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, Tom sits down with Dr. Emily King, founder of All-Star Veterinary Clinic, to explore the leadership principles that helped her grow a thriving practice, build strong teams, and eventually navigate a successful transition to corporate partnership.Emily opens up about:How intentional leadership shaped her culture and successWhy veterinarians struggle with delegationWhat made 2021 the right year to sell her practiceHer growing social media influence and mission to bring positivity to vet medWhat she sees as the next big steps in her careerWhether you're a current owner, future owner, or a veterinarian searching for clarity, you’ll find powerful takeaways you can apply today.🎧 Listen to all episodes: https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances: 5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment: Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice: Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/ Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisors LinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisors YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

May 22, 202624 min

Episode 202 - 1 of 4: Is Your Veterinary Practice Actually Sellable?

Send us Fan MailMany practice owners assume their business will fund retirement — but the real question is: Is your practice actually sellable? In Part 1 of this 4-part series, Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett break down what buyers look for when purchasing a veterinary hospital, and what can quietly reduce practice value.You’ll hear how practice value is tied to what transfers to a buyer — including:Consistent profitabilityA strong, stable teamDocumented systems and processesA stable client baseClean financialsLimited owner dependenceThey also cover common value-killers like poor bookkeeping, unclear roles, high turnover, and a practice that can’t function without the owner.Reflection question: If you disappeared for 90 days… what happens?Explore more resources: flvetadvisors.com Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances:5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment:Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice:Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

May 15, 202624 min

Episode 201 - Why Two Veterinarians Can Earn the Same… But Build Completely Different Lives

Send us Fan MailTwo veterinarians can earn the same income, live a similar lifestyle, and still end up in completely different financial positions.In this episode of the Smarter Vet Podcast, Tom Seeko and CJ Burnett unpack why financial outcomes are rarely about income alone. They explore the role of perception, habits, and common money mindsets that quietly keep veterinarians stuck—like believing busy equals successful, assuming you’ll “catch up later,” or relying on a future practice sale as a retirement plan.This conversation challenges listeners to think differently about control, intentionality, and aligning their business and personal finances to create clarity and confidence.Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances:5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment:Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice:Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

May 8, 202626 min

Episode 200 - What Actually Matters Financially

Send us Fan MailThis episode marks a major milestone—200 episodes of the Smarter Vet Financial Podcast. To celebrate, CJ Burnett and Tom Seeko step back to reflect on what they’ve consistently seen work—and not work—for veterinarians over the past decade.They break down three common patterns that hold people back: lack of clarity, believing more income automatically equals progress, and the mindset of “I’ll figure it out later.” Then, they share the foundational principles that lead to real financial progress: clarity, consistent saving, and alignment between personal and practice goals.This conversation is about simplifying finances, building sustainable habits, and creating financial independence—without relying solely on practice sales or income growth.🔗 Learn more at: https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances:5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment:Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice:Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

May 1, 202620 min

Episode 199 - The Trials & Trivia of Practice Ownership

Send us Fan MailPractice ownership can feel like a rollercoaster — incredible highs, heavy responsibilities, and moments that make you question why you started in the first place.In this episode of the Smarter Vet Financial Podcast, CJ Burnett and Tom Seeko break down the real-world trials and trivia of veterinary practice ownership. From financial pressure and decision fatigue to emotional load and leadership challenges, they unpack the parts of ownership that often go unspoken.They also highlight the quieter wins: building a lasting culture, developing confident associates, creating optionality, and designing a practice that supports both your lifestyle and long-term financial goals.Whether you’re aspiring to own, currently owning and overwhelmed, or somewhere in between, this conversation offers clarity on what ownership actually looks like — and how structure and financial clarity can change everything.👉 Learn more and explore additional resources at: https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances:5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment:Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice:Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

April 24, 202627 min

Communication, Connection & Mental Health in Vet Med with Catherine Haskins

Send us Fan MailCommunication isn’t just announcements—it’s how veterinary teams connect, support each other, and deliver care. In this episode, Tom Seeko sits down with Catherine Haskins, founder/CEO of The Bridge Club and co‑founder of Project Sticker, to talk about the realities of communication inside practices, the shift toward smaller, more intentional networking, and practical ways leaders can support mental health on fast‑moving teams.We cover: • Why “more” communication isn’t always better—and when it isn’t enough • How to make connection intentional (and doable) in a packed schedule • The role of authenticity, conflict, and clarity in team culture • Project Sticker’s simple ideas (like 5‑minute buffers) to protect mental health • A quick win any practice can implement this week: notice → check in → follow upResources & Links:Florida Veterinary Advisors: https://flvetadvisors.comFull Episode (Audio): https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/The Bridge Club: https://thebridgeclub.com/Project Sticker: https://stickwithus.vetAVMA QPR Gatekeeper (free): https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/wellbeing/qpr-suicide-prevention-trainingEnjoying the show? Please rate/review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—this helps other veterinary professionals find us.Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5 part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances.5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessmentTest My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice.Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usCheck out our social media channelsFacebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube-https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAK-PzGDIch3vzKiAjWVrQQ

April 17, 202628 min

Episode 198 - The Hidden Cost of Financial Avoidance in Veterinary Medicine

Send us Fan MailVeterinary medicine isn’t about the money—but avoiding finances can quietly create stress, burnout, and long-term consequences.In this episode of the SmarterVet Financial Podcast, CJ Burnett and Tom Seeko unpack the hidden cost of financial avoidance in veterinary medicine. From subscription creep and pricing hesitation to discomfort around money conversations, they explore why so many veterinarians sidestep finances—and how that avoidance compounds over time.You’ll hear real-world examples of how ignoring financial decisions impacts personal stress, business stability, retirement readiness, and career flexibility. More importantly, CJ and Tom reframe financial clarity not as greed—but as a tool that supports better medicine, stronger practices, and long-term sustainability.If finances feel overwhelming, avoided, or emotionally charged, this conversation will help you see money through a clearer, more constructive lens.🎧 Listen now and start engaging with your finances—without losing your mission.Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5-part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances:5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessment:Test My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice:Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665

April 10, 202627 min

Solving HR, Retention & Culture Challenges in Vet Practices with Anthony LaPolla

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the SmarterVet Financial Podcast, Tom sits down with Anthony LaPolla, Founder & CEO of Empower Business Strategies, to explore one of the biggest challenges facing veterinary practices today: retention and HR structure.Anthony shares why so many clinics struggle to keep good people, the hidden causes behind turnover, what strong onboarding and training should look like, and why compliance is almost always the first place to start. They also discuss the importance of leadership, systems, consistency, and building a true people-first culture.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by HR, unsure about your training process, or curious why your team isn’t sticking around, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.🎧 Listen now and take one actionable step toward creating a more aligned, supported, and stable practice team.Smarter Vet Podcast-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/smarter-vet-financial-podcast/Watch the no cost 5 part video course to review your finances and see where you could be doing better in your finances.5 Foundational Steps to Financial Balance Video Course-http://series.flvetadvisors.com/Find out what you could be overlooking within your practice by taking our brief assessmentTest My Personal Financial IQ-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/personal-test/Sign up for a complimentary phone call to talk about how to get better use of all the cash inside your practice.Schedule a time-https://flveterinaryadvisors.com/contact-usCheck out our social media channelsInstagram-https://www.instagram.com/flveterinaryadvisors/Facebook-https://facebook.com/flvetadvisorsLinkedIn-https://linkedin.com/company/flvetadvisorsYouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@floridaveterinaryadvisors7665