Episode DescriptionIn this week’s Veterinary Leadership Success Show, Dr. Dave Nicol and Dr. Saya Clement delve into the significance of female leadership within the veterinary profession. Dr. Clement, an experienced veterinarian and former practice owner, shares her personal journey and insights, emphasizing the importance of women taking on leadership roles in the industry.Key Points:Representation MattersDr. Clement stresses that the veterinary profession is predominantly female, underscoring the necessity of strong female leadership for the industry's progress. Aspiring women should be encouraged to step into leadership positions, mentor students, and contribute to the profession's advancement.Challenges and Opportunities Dr. Clement acknowledges the hurdles she faced as a female veterinarian, including biases and self-doubt. However, she also highlights the opportunities for women to have a significant impact by owning practices, mentoring others, and engaging in speaking opportunities.Empowerment Through Action Dr. Clement motivates aspiring female leaders to push beyond their comfort zones and seize opportunities for growth and development. She emphasizes the importance of challenging oneself, even in the presence of imposter syndrome, to make a meaningful contribution to the veterinary profession.Innovation and Mentorship The episode also explores the role of innovation, particularly in utilizing technology like AI to enhance teaching and mentorship in veterinary practice. Dr. Clement underscores the value of mentorship and the influence of supportive role models in shaping one's career and leadership journey.ConclusionFemale leadership is not only crucial but also transformative in the veterinary profession. Aspiring women should be empowered to embrace leadership roles, challenge traditional norms, and contribute their unique perspectives to drive innovation and growth within the industry. By fostering a culture of mentorship, support, and empowerment, the veterinary profession can create a more inclusive and dynamic environment for female leaders to thrive.Episode Outline[00:01:04] Celebrating International Women's Day.[00:08:21] Balancing career and family.[00:09:27] Imposterism and self-doubt.[00:13:35] Leadership and decision-making skills.[00:18:46] Using technology to innovate mentoring.[00:20:23] The evolution of communication.Quotes00:02:23 - "I graduated in 1993 from the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph, Ontario, Canada. So old."00:03:36 - "So to quote my favorite musical right now, want to be in the room when it happens and hopefully"00:10:55 - "I can't stand the mutual wallowing in self pity that happens in a lot of these groups"00:12:58-00:13:09 - "We need people who can say that there is a better way."00:15:09-00:15:19 - "people who know how to fail and pick themselves up are actually really, to me, the most amazing people."00:21:43 - "The reality is that this is a female-dominated profession right now. And we need strong female leadership within the profession and we need people who are confident and we need women who are willing to say that they are"