Ep 252: From New Grad to Practice Owner: Dr. Pop's Mentorship Model, with Dr. Alexandru Pop

In this episode of "So You're a Vet, Now What?", host Dr. Moriah McCauley welcomes Dr. Alexandru Pop from Appalachian Vet Services. Dr. Pop, a practice owner and seasoned veterinarian, shares invaluable insights into the importance of vulnerability and mentorship in veterinary medicine. As a newly graduated vet in 2019, Dr. Pop had ambitious goals, including practice ownership. Fast forward six years, he now successfully leads a mixed animal multi-doctor practice and emphasizes the significance of cultivating a mentorship culture. Dr. Pop discusses the financial investments involved in hiring new graduates and why these are crucial for effective mentorship. Listeners will hear about Dr. Pop’s thoughtfully crafted mentorship model, which has evolved over the years, and understand why fostering a supportive environment is essential for the growth and success of new vets. This episode is a must-listen for final-year vet students and recent graduates looking for guidance and inspiration on their journey in veterinary medicine. Tune in to discover how embracing vulnerability and investing in mentorship can transform your veterinary career. Episode Outline [00:02:25] Financial implications of new grads. [00:03:58] Mentorship Investments in New Grads [00:09:52] A culture of mentorship. [00:12:11] Generational change and development. [00:16:32] Investment in new graduates [00:19:35] The relational side of practice [00:23:30] Mentorship model. [00:27:05] Gauging mentee readiness [00:30:50] Working interview importance. [00:34:12] Equine reproductive services expansion. [00:38:26] Mentorship-focused practice transformation. Episode Links See more from Dr. Moriah McCauley: Learn more about Appalachian Vet Services: Mentioned in this episode: So You're a Vet, Now What? - The Course Are you a new or recent veterinary graduate? If so, Dr. Dave’s course, ‘So You’re a Vet… Now What?’ has been put together specifically for you. The course focuses on non-clinical skills. This is not as dull as it sounds. In fact, almost every career problem that people face is due to not having well-developed, non-clinical skills. These are skills like client communication, so you have great relationships with clients. Emotional intelligence, so you've got great relationships with your teammates. Effective negotiation skills, so you can get paid what you are worth. Management of imposter syndrome, so you can have confidence in your abilities. And, how to build formidable resilience, so you can handle everything that comes your way. These are not just skills. They are prerequisites vital for success and financial and emotional wellbeing. This course serves as an essential stepping stone to your success. Dr. Dave will be your mentor as you go through 12-modules, helping you transition from being a student to a fully rounded veterinary professional. Visit to learn more.

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Ep 252: From New Grad to Practice Owner: Dr. Pop's Mentorship Model, with Dr. Alexandru Pop is an episode from Freewheelin' Veterinary Business Q&A Podcast by The Veterinary Career Success Show.

This episode is 42:32 long.

This episode was published on Mar 4, 2025.

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