Breaking the Perfectionism Trap That's Holding Women Vets Back: Leadership, Confidence & Career Growth
Jun 30, 2026
What if the biggest thing holding you back isn’t your skill, but your mindset?
Veterinary leadership, perfectionism in veterinary medicine, and career sustainability are at the heart of this episode with Dr. Cheryl York.
Dr. York shares her journey from self-doubt and fear of public speaking to becoming a confident leader and advocate in organized veterinary medicine. Together, we explore how perfectionism, vulnerability, and community shape career growth. This episode dives into leadership development, overcoming fear, and building meaningful connections so veterinarians can thrive—personally and professionally—without sacrificing themselves in the process.
In This Episode
β How perfectionism shows up in veterinary medicine—and how to overcome it
β Why vulnerability and community are essential for career growth
β How to step into leadership even when you feel unqualified or afraid
β Practical ways to build a sustainable, fulfilling veterinary career
Ready to evolve your veterinary career?
Explore coaching, programs, and resources designed to support alignment, leadership, and long-term sustainability in veterinary medicine at www.evolvedvets.com
Key Timestamps
- 00:00 Perfectionism and the hidden impact on veterinarians
- 01:45 Cheryl’s journey into veterinary medicine and career path
- 04:46 Overcoming fear of public speaking through challenging yourself to do the uncomfortable thing
- 06:40 Failing forward: persistence and earning a board position
- 09:00 The power of networking and community in vet med
- 13:34 Finding purpose and avoiding isolation in a demanding career
- 15:07 Perfectionism, fear of failure, and “life paralysis”
- 19:22 Advice for women in veterinary medicine navigating self-doubt
- 21:30 The importance of community and shared experiences
- 25:45 Life outside veterinary medicine: hobbies, balance, and self-care
Key Takeaways
πΉ Perfectionism is often rooted in fear and shame—and can limit growth if left unchecked
πΉ Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about stepping up despite fear and discomfort
πΉ Community and connection are critical to surviving and thriving in veterinary medicine
πΉ Self-compassion and vulnerability are essential for long-term career sustainability
If you enjoyed this episode, check out Dr. Bethany Weinheimer’s episode on perfectionism in veterinary medicine, overcoming self-doubt, and building a more sustainable veterinary career. Check it out here π https://youtu.be/-eyYOjtVWmw
About Dr. Cheryl York
Veterinarian & Medical Director
Dr. Cheryl York received her Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University in 2009, then went on to graduate from Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. She practiced in San Diego, California for several years prior to her move back to Texas in 2017 to be closer to family. She has been with the Bluebonnet family ever since, having practiced at all 3 locations! The Circle C location is her long term work home, where she is currently serving as their medical director.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-york-a6308bb0
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cyork32/?hl=en
Email: [email protected]
Resources Mentioned
Instagram: @EvolvedVets
YouTube: Evolved Vets
Twitter x.com/EvolvedVets
TikTok tiktok.com/@evolvedvets?lang=en
Website, Coaching & Membership: www.evolvedvets.com
Grab your FREE resources here: https://linktr.ee/evolvedvets
Quiz: https://app-evolved-vets.mykajabi.com/energy-quiz
