Veterinary Blueprints Podcast
The Veterinary Blueprints Podcast is your essential guide to merging the world of veterinary care with business ownership and entrepreneurship. Our episodes will enlighten both budding and seasoned veterinary entrepreneurs, providing a roadmap to seamlessly combine clinical passion with business innovation.
Our expert lineup boasts professionals from inside the veterinary realm and seasoned entrepreneurs from diverse industries, offering a comprehensive look into business strategies and industry best practices.
If you're on a quest to refine your veterinary business, elevate its market presence, or grasp the entrepreneurial nuances of the vet world, look no further than Veterinary Blueprints.
Dive into the Veterinary Blueprints Podcast and construct your pathway to veterinary entrepreneurial excellence.
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Episode #17
May 28, 2024
Can independent veterinary practices really thrive alongside corporate giants? Join us live from the Western Veterinary Conference in Las Vegas as we challenge this myth with Tristyn Geis from Bank of America's practice lending division. Discover how a typical $750,000 loan can be a game-changer for aspiring veterinarians, providing the necessary funds for construction, equipment, and working capital. Tristan shares her wealth of knowledge on the financial durability of private practices and debunks misconceptions about their viability. Gain invaluable insight into the world of veterinary practice ownership, from crafting a solid business plan to the critical role of assembling an expert support team.
Tristyn Gies
Bank of America Practice Solutions
Regional Business Development Officer |Veterinary Division
Cell: 614-746-9431 | Fax: 312-453-2158
[email protected]
LindedIn - linkedin.com/in/tristyn-gies-ms
Bank of America - Veterinary Practice Lending
Episode #16
May 14, 2024
In this episode, we explore the critical elements of finding an ideal location for a veterinary practice. Joe Flick from Carr Commercial Realty lends his expertise to dissect the nuances of veterinary real estate, emphasizing the benefits of engaging a specialist. Joe provides valuable insights into the role of an advocate in high-stakes real estate transactions, empowering veterinarians with the essential knowledge to make well-informed decisions that shape the future of their practices.
Guest Info
JOE FLICK
Agent - FL Orlando
407.223.4128
[email protected]
LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/joe-flick-3b50b7b4
CARR - Joe Flick
Episode #15
April 30, 2024
Unlock the secrets to fortifying your veterinary practice against life's uncertainties with our latest podcast episode featuring Chris Steffl from Versatile Insurance. As we stroll down memory lane discussing our ten-year collaboration, we promise to equip you with the knowledge to navigate the insurance maze with confidence. Whether you're acquiring a new practice or planning for the long haul, our dialogue unveils critical insurance products and strategies that can provide a safety net for both your business and personal life.
Guest Information
Chris Steffl
612-600-7243
cts.visins.com
Christopher Steffl LinkedIn
Versatile Insurance
Episode #14
April 6, 2024
Embark on an inspiring journey with Dr. Samantha Vitale, veterinary neurologist and CEO of Stratocyte, as we explore the innovative world of veterinary teleconsulting. Samantha shares her voyage from hands-on clinic work to revolutionizing vet care delivery, offering an intimate glimpse into her passion for extending specialty care to pets far and wide. With Stratocyte leading the charge, we discuss the transformative effects this digital leap has on pets and practitioners in remote areas, ensuring that no companion animal goes without the expert care they deserve.
Guest Info
Samantha Vitale
[email protected]
linkedin.com/in/samantha-vitale-stratocyte
US only - (224) 526-7286
Outside US - (844) 947-4401 (Toll free)
https://stratocyte.com/
Episode #13
April 2, 2024
Unlock the potential of veterinary practice ownership with expert insights from Kelly Jackson of DVM Match, straight from the bustling atmosphere of the Western Vet Conference in Las Vegas! Our latest Veterinary Blueprint Podcast episode is a treasure trove for any veterinarian daring to dream of owning their practice. We dissect Kelly's journey from finance to the niche of working at veterinary practice brokerage. With Kelly's guidance, discover how DVM Match's unique approach of third-party business appraisals can lead to fair practice valuations, setting you up for success whether you're buying or selling.
Guest Information:
Kelly Jackson
206-491-2357
[email protected]
https://dvmmatch.com/
DVM Match Mountain West
Episode #12
March 19, 2024
Transform your veterinary practice's environment with the insightful revelations from Marie Pabst, an aficionado in Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace. This episode promises to take you on a journey through Marie's innovative strategies, honed from her seasoned background in animal health, to boost morale and strengthen the fabric of your team relationships. Discover the essence of heartfelt appreciation that transcends monetary incentives, and learn why nearly half the workforce cherishes words of affirmation. Marie's company, Other Centered Growth, presents a beacon of change, leading practice owners and managers to embrace the power of tailored recognition in cultivating a vibrant organizational culture.
Guest Info
Marie Pabst
Diagnostic Sales Manager
Antech Diagnostics
linkedin.com/in/mariepabst
Episode #11
March 5, 2024
Unlock the secrets to navigating the ever-changing legal landscape of small businesses with our latest guest, Michael Seltzer. As a seasoned attorney for veterinary professionals, he brings a treasure trove of insights into avoiding legal pitfalls and ensuring your practice thrives. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs who understand the value of being proactive in legal matters, whether you're reviewing commercial lease agreements, grappling with non-compete clauses in employment contracts, or staying compliant with the latest legislative changes like the Corporate Transparency Act.
GUEST INFO
Michael Salchert
Shareholder - Larkin Hoffman
Phone: 952-896-6712
[email protected]
larkinhoffman.com
linkedin.com/in/michael-salchert
Episode #10
February 14, 2024
Discover the secrets to a prosperous future in veterinary practice with Travis York of Three and One Veterinary Advisors, our latest guest on the Veterinary Blueprint podcast. Travis, a seasoned expert in veterinary practice transitions, shares his knowledge on acquisitions, expansions, and the essential strategies for a successful exit. With over 500 practices under his guidance, his advice is indispensable for veterinarians and practice managers aiming to navigate the complexities of significant wealth changes.
GUEST INFORMATION
Travis York
678-523-0234
www.threeandonevetadvisors.com
[email protected]
Episode #9
February 6, 2024
Veterinary care goes beyond the pets we nurture; it's about cultivating the people who heal them. That's the conviction Alyssa Mages from Empowering Veterinary Teams brings to our discussion, with a career spanning almost two decades dedicated to enriching the veterinary community.
Guest Info:
Alyssa Mages BS, CVT
Empowering Veterinary Teams
linkedin.com/in/acmcvt2019evt
e[email protected]
mpoweringveterinaryteams.com
Episode #8
January 23, 2024
Embark on an inspiring journey with Dr. Stephanie Morley, the trailblazing president of Vetlen Advanced Veterinary Devices, and uncover the diverse pathways a career in veterinary medicine can take. In this episode of Veterinary Blueprints, we sit down with Dr. Stephanie Morley, who shares the story of her remarkable transition from a small animal practice to leading a cutting-edge medical device company.
Guest Information
Dr. Stephanie Morley
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemorley/
Email - [email protected]
Vetlen - Advanced Veterinary Devices
https://vetlen.com/
RECEIVE A $5,000 RESEARCH AWARD!
Vetlen Research Resident Award - https://vetlen.com/resident-research-award/
Host Information
Bill Buter
Direct – 952-208-7220 https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill – Strategy Session
Episode #7
January 9, 2024
Unlock the secrets of veterinary practice success with Garth Jordan, CEO of the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), who joins Bill Butler, on a compelling journey through the landscape of veterinary innovation. We explore the future, peeking into how AI may soon revolutionize veterinary medicine. As Garth shares, embracing AI could mean personalized member experiences, optimizing the use of AAHA's resources, and possibly redefining the landscape of veterinary services.
Guest Info
Garth Jordan
CEO -American Animal Hospital Association - AAHA
[email protected]
https://www.aaha.org/
LinkedIn - Garth Jordan
Host Information
Bill Buter – Contact Information
Direct – 952-208-7220 https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill – Strategy Session
EPISODE #6
December 26, 2023
Let's change the way you perceive leadership with our conversation with Lieutenant Colonel retired Oakland McCullough. You might ask, what can the military teach us about leadership in the veterinary industry? As Oak shares, there's more common ground than you'd think. Drawing on his extensive experience in the US Army, Oak provides valuable insights into leadership principles, scope of control, and the importance of building strong networks.
Guest Info:
LTC Oakland (Oak) McCullouch Retired
Website - https://www.ltcoakmcculloch.com/
Speaking - https://www.ltcoakmcculloch.com/speaking
Phone - 386-290-8088 (Mobile)
LinkedIn -linkedin.com/in/oakland-mcculloch-34293256
Email - [email protected]
Facebook - facebook.com/ltcoakmcculloch (Company)
Host Information
Bill Buter – Contact Information
Direct – 952-208-7220
https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill – Strategy Session
EPISODE #5
December 12, 2023
Former Disney guest service manager, Christos Provistalis, reveals the key to Disney's exceptional customer service lies in selling not just a product, but an emotion. Drawing from his experience at Disney and his subsequent role as a speaker and thought leader, Christos emphasizes the transformative potential of genuine connections and kindness in the service industry.
Guest Info:
Christos Provistalis - www.christosspeaks.com
Phone: (860) 428-9314
Email: [email protected]
Linked In - Christos Speaks
Host Information
Bill Buter – Contact Information
Direct – 952-208-7220
https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill – Strategy Session
EPISODE #4
November 28, 2023
Prepare to be inspired as we sit down with Nona Nesseth, a veteran in the animal health industry with over two decades under her belt. Her infectious passion is evident as she opens up about her journey in everything from dentistry to cardiology and even pharmaceutical products. As an advocate for the fear-free initiative and a devoted volunteer for the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Foundation, Nona's commitment to enhancing animal care is truly commendable.
Guest Info:
Nona Nesseth – Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nona-nesseth-582b0ba
Host Information
Bill Buter – Contact Information
Direct – 952-208-7220
https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill – Strategy Session
EPISODE #3
November 14, 2023
Discover how to fortify your business against the relentless threats of cyber crimes as we converse with Daniel Metcalf, a seasoned technologist and managing partner at Cyber Fin. With two decades of experience under his belt, Daniel shares valuable insights on the gravity of cybersecurity for small businesses, particularly veterinary practices. We jump right into illuminating discussions on the risks that lurk in the digital world and the solutions that can help your business stay secure.
Guest Info
Daniel Metcalf – Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielmetcalf/
Email - [email protected]
Cyber Self Check - https://cyberfin.net/lp/cybersecurity-self-check/index.html
Host Information
Bill Buter – Contact Information
Direct – 952-208-7220
https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill – Strategy Session
EPISODE #2
October 31, 2023
In this episode of Veterinary Blueprints, host Bill Butler has an in depth conversation with nationally recognized Author, Speaker and Thought Leader Josh Vaisman on what positive leadership looks like in your practice.
Guest Info
Josh Vaisman – Contact Information
https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-vaisman-mappcp-pgd-8371877
Get a copy of Josh's Book - (also available in audio download!)
Lead to Thrive: The Science of Crafting a Positive Veterinary Culture
aaha.org/leadtothrivebookstore
Host Information
Bill Buter – Contact Information
Direct – 952-208-7220
https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill –Strategy Session
EPISODE #1
October 17, 2023
In this insightful episode of Veterinary Blueprints, host Bill Butler engages with Marie Pabst, a distinguished expert from Colonial Life, to unravel the significance of group benefits in the veterinary world.
Guest Info
Marie Pabst – Contact Information
https://www.othercenteredgrowth.com/
Host Information
Bill Buter – Contact Information
Direct – 952-208-7220
https://butlervetinsurance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/billbutler-cic/
Schedule a Strategy Session with Bill – Strategy Session
Bill Butler
CIC, CISR, CWCA
Host
Bill Butler is president of Butler & Associates Insurance Agency Inc. and founder of Butler Vet Insurance, focusing on insurance for the veterinary and pet services industry.
He spent twelve years in the military with the Minnesota Army National Guard and US Army, serving in various roles both in Minnesota and 101st Airborne Division, Ft. Campbell, Kentucky, before entering the insurance industry.
He is active in his local business community, veterinary associations, and Rotary Club, and is passionate about giving back to others. Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, he and his wife, Shannon, reside in Burnsville, Minnesota.
Today, Bill's team serves in a different role, protecting their customers with the same level of drive and dedication he had in the military. Since 2004 when Bill joined his parents at their independent insurance agency, he has made insurance education and protecting everything his clients have worked so hard for his number one priority.
We Wrote the Book on Vet Insurance
What is your biggest source of stress when it comes to insuring your practice?
Bill Butler has found when asking this question of practice owners and managers the answer he hears most often is that they don’t understand the insurance products they are already purchasing and what coverages they need. Veterinarians start their practice to help animals but quickly find out that there is so much more to running their business and insurance is just one piece of a confusing puzzle that can be costly if done wrong.
Butler Vet Insurance's
Protect Your Practice Blueprint
Find out why Veterinarians are working with Butler Vet Insurance
"A colleague recommended Bill Butler and Butler Vet Insurance and I am glad they did. Bill was able to fill some gaps in coverage and make sure my practice is insured properly."
Dr. Rick Cameron
Bass Lake Pet Hospital
"Bill's detailed knowledge of the veterinary field is evident, and is so valuable when it comes to insurance. We have also been impressed with his quick and thorough communication."
Dr. Leah Renne
DVM
"Bill took the time to help us with the special needs of house call practice. He let us know where we were already getting good rates and where we could improve. When I was declined for disability insurance for a policy through an association, Bill found a way for me to obtain policies for me and my practice. I will continue to use Bill for my insurance needs because of his honesty, integrity, and knowledge that he is looking out for me."
Dr. Ann M. Fischer, DVM
Practice Owner
"I met Bill at a veterinary association event. At the time I didn't give my insurance much thought, until my renewal came with a significant rate increase. He was able to help me save money and keep the same coverage""
Dr. Coral Riggs, DVM
Owner, North Paws Veterinary Clinic
"Since joining the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association as an Industry Partner Bill Butler has always been willing to help our Veterinarians when asked. We are grateful for Industry Partners like Bill and the support he has provided to MVMA over the years because it shows that he values everyone's success within the Minnesota Veterinary Community, this book is another example of that support."
Kelly Andrews
CAE, Executive Director, Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association
"Bill has been a part of the Minnesota Independent Insurance Agents Association as a member, an emerging leader, a legislative committee member, and now a trusted advisory agent owner. Bill has learned and advanced in his level of knowledge immensely over the past 18 years even during tough personal times. He is always striving to learn more to make his customers' lives more safe, sound and secure and is a valued member of the association."
April Goodin
Director of Operations, MN Independent Insurance Agents Association
"I know from my own experience coaching is the number one way for anybody to take things to the next level, Bill invested in coaching to help his team and his clients. This book is a product of that coaching."
Joe Theismann
President, JRT Associates, Inc.
"Bill Butler is a role model for other independent insurance agents when it comes to professionalism, responsiveness and caring"
Kevin Steiner
CEO & President, West Bend Mutual Insurance Company
"I was first introduced to Bill Butler during a VHA webinar on Worker's Compensation insurance. I have been a veterinary practice owner for over 15 years but did not have a good understanding of our insurance policies, especially Worker's Compensation. Bill's presentation was well-organized and provided me with a much better understanding. I invited him to do a full insurance review for my practice, and after a thorough discussion of my individual needs we switched all of our policies over to Butler Vet Insurance. I highly recommend Bill Butler and Butler Vet Insurance for all of your veterinary practice insurance needs!"
Jennifer Blair, DVM, CVA, CVFT, CTPEP
Hospital Administrator, Practice Owner, St Francis Animal Hospital / St Francis Integrative Services
"One of the most important decisions business owners make, but often take for granted, is who we are going to select to protect our greatest asset. It is my privilege to recommend the preeminent authority to protect your veterinary practice-Bill Butler and his team. Bill is the nationally recognized authority for the vet insurance industry, a speaker, author and a business leader. This book is revolutionary and reiterates why every veterinary practice owner must work with Butler Vet Insurance."
Mike Stromsoe
Insurance Agency Owner, Author, Speaker, Business Coach, The Unstoppable Profit Producer
"I have known Bill since 2014 and he is one of the best independent insurance agents in the industry. I have seen his growth as an agency owner and thought leader in the industry. The level of investment in himself is uncommon in the insurance industry and watching him take action to author this book has been impressive to watch."
Russ Castle
President, Insurance by Castle
"I am so thankful to have Bill as my insurance agent and appreciate his integrity and expertise. I have peace of mind knowing I have the coverage I need and am protected. Bill understands the veterinary industry and the concerns veterinarians face."
Dr. Amy Haarstad, DVM, DACVD
Practice Owner, Haarstad Veterinary Dermatology
"Bill and his team at Butler Vet Insurance are a huge asset to my practice. Over the past few years my business has grown, and I have always been able to rely on Bill to make sure my practice has the insurance it needs. Having a trusted insurance advisor like Bill is a must for every practice owner."
Dr. Sven Kohlmyer
DVM, Owner, Wayzata Pet Hospital
"Butler Vet Insurance takes care of our business needs, so we can take care of our patients"
Dr. Heather Taylor
Owner, Grand Avenue Veterinary Center
"This is a MUST READ for EVERY Veterinary Practice Owner! Bill Butler has written a simple guide for helping you protect your business and his ideas will have a major, positive difference in your life! I HIGHLY recommend Bill's book! If you're looking for an insurance agent who comes from the heart, truly cares about people and will put your best interest first, then do yourself a favor and work with Bill today! You will be Grateful you did!""
James Malinchak
Featured on ABCs Hit TV Show, "Secret Millionaire" (Viewed by 50 Million+ Worldwide) Authored 27 Books, Delivered 3,000+ Presentations & 2,000+ Business Consultations Best-Selling Author of Millionaire Success Secrets. Founder, www.BigMoneySpeaker.com
"We are so happy to have found Bill Butler to help us with our business insurance needs. He is knowledgeable and helpful at explaining products which may apply to our veterinary practice. I am glad to be working with someone who is part of my community. I feel confident that Bill will be there for us if we ever need him and that he is the right fit for our established St. Paul small business. Of course my favorite thing about Bill is how much he loves our clinic cat, Chou Chou!"
Anne Brownlee DVM/Owner
Grand Avenue Veterinary Center
"Bill recently took over our business insurance needs. Insurance is confusing and Bill explained things in a manner that made sense. I'm so happy we made the transition and highly recommend Bill and Associates!"
Amanda Foss
Practice Manager Grand Avenue Veterinary Center
"I had the pleasure of meeting Bill at the October VHA expo and was so happy that he followed up with us after our initial meeting. After meeting with Bill, we realized he is one who knows the veterinary insurance industry inside and out! He is an individual who is very thorough, provides easy to understand advice, and follows through with what he says! We switched our business and workman's comp insurance to the Butler agency due to the excellent service Bill provided in just the short time we have known him. Highly recommend Bill and the Butler Agency!"
Dr. Julie Berndt
DVM Minnesota Valley Pet Hospital
"Excellent communication, service, products and pricing. I highly recommend!!"
Dr Dan Soderberg
Blaine Central Veterinary Clinic
"We have worked with Bill Butler as our hospital and work comp insurance broker for the last few years, and we could not be more pleased with his service. He gives his honest opinion based on experience about where our dollars will be best spent and about the types of coverage we need, and when there have been disputes with our insurance company he has gone to bat on our behalf. For these reasons he has earned our loyalty and I don't foresee that changing, and I predict that other veterinary hospitals will have a similar experience if they do decide to work with him"
Kelby Howell Practice Manager
Blue Cross Animal Hospital
"Hi Bill, I just wanted to say thank you for coming out and giving me a quote for insurance. I really appreciate the time that you took to gather information and communicate with the underwriters about our coverage. You really took the time to educate me on our coverage and give me recommendations for the future. Even though I can’t make a change this year because we ran out of time, I will definitely have you come back next year. We will allow extra time next year. Thank you again for providing great customer service!"
Sherry Foster Practice Manager / Owner
Southview Animal Hospital
"I was interested in finding a new insurance agency to meet the needs of our business. I had been listening to the radio and heard of another company. I called them and they stated they did not work with the type of business that I have, and they recommended Butler Insurance. Oddly enough Bill had stopped by our business and dropped off some information the week before. I contacted Bill and after our first meeting, I knew I would be changing our insurance needs over to Butler Insurance. My goal was to find an excellent insurance agency, to find someone who would listen to my needs, and to educate me on what I needed, to keep my business and staff protected. Bill met all of this and has exceeded my expectations. I look forward to a long healthy business relationship!"
Dan Cederstom DVM
Park Grove Pet Hospital
"I have been impressed with Bill’s honest communication style; he’s a good guy who doesn’t pull any punches. He strikes me as very knowledgeable and hard-working, and I have no doubt that he does his absolute best for his clients."
Heidi Brenegan Chief Marketing
Office Animal Emergency & Referral Center of Minnesota
"I needed help with my insurance and Bill exceeded my expectations. His knowledge of my business (Veterinarian) needs helped me save a ton over last year. Thanks Bill!"
Sven Kohlmyer DVM/Owner
Wayzata Pet Hospital
"My wife and I have owned our veterinary clinic since the late 90's and have been in the business for over 40 years. Bill is the knowledgeable insurance agent I have ever know. When I met Bill, if I had not know he was an insurance professional, I could have easily been convinced that he owned a veterinary practice - he was that informed about our profession. Bill is hard working and thorough as well as ethical. I would highly recommend him for your insurance needs."
David Hermann DVM/ Owner
Cleary Lake Animal Hospital