Category: Finances
Revolutionizing Veterinary Practices With Marcia Miller and Leah Parris (Ep. 9)

Revolutionizing Veterinary Practices With Marcia Miller and Leah Parris (Ep. 9)

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The veterinary profession is a noble and essential field, yet it is one fraught with challenges that often go unnoticed by the public, because of cute puppies, right?

In the latest episode of the Making Hay podcast, Marcia Miller welcomes Leah Parris, CVPM, LVT, CCFP, HABc, and Founder of Southern Meridian Veterinary Consulting. Leah shares her unexpected journey into veterinary medicine, sparked by adopting a neglected dog. She discusses her services aimed at improving veterinary practice operations and culture, her involvement with the nonprofit Not One More Vet, and her advocacy for mental health in the veterinary community. Leah also previews her upcoming American Veterinary Medical Conference talk on staff appreciation and title protection for licensed veterinary technicians. 

Strap in for a valuable guide packed with actionable strategies that aim to enhance the well-being of veterinary staff and their patients.

Marcia and Leah discuss: 

  • Leah’s background and journey into the veterinary space
  • Advice for young veterinarians and how to avoid burnout and compassion fatigue
  • Not One More Vet and advocacy for mental health in the veterinary community
  • And more

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

Connect with Leah Parris: 

About our Guest: 

With a trailblazing journey spanning over 15 years in the veterinary realm, I’ve cultivated an unwavering commitment to shaping the industry. My story began at Auburn University, where I ignited my passion for animal science, setting the stage for a dynamic career.

As a state veterinary technician with the prestigious Certified Veterinary Practice Manager title, Leah Parris is uniquely positioned at the crossroads of hands-on care and strategic leadership. This dual perspective provides me with an insightful vantage point to navigate the intricate landscape of veterinary practices.

Beyond the clinic, Leah has written contributions have graced esteemed veterinary publications, a testament to my dedication to thought leadership. In 2022, the Veterinary Hospital Management Association honored her with the Emerging Leader Scholarship, underscoring her commitment to driving positive change.

Dedicated to holistic well-being, Leah is a Certified Compassion Fatigue Professional—a beacon for veterinary professionals seeking balance and resilience. Her advocacy in this domain has earned her RACE approval as a speaker, amplifying her reach in promoting wellness.

Leah’s passion extends to co-founding the Not One More Vet Georgia Chapter in 2023, fostering a nurturing space for our community. This journey led her to establish Southern Meridian Veterinary Consulting, a platform through which she provides coaching, consultancy, and interim coverage, empowering veterinary professionals to thrive.

In her free time, Leah enjoys spending time at the lake, accompanied by her husband, a spirited toy poodle, and two tranquil turtles. She is also an avid reader, fitness enthusiast, culinary explorer, and devoted pet lover! 

Leah’s story reflects resilience, evolution, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting her fellow veterinary professionals. Her consultancy serves as a guiding light, shaped by empathy, experience, and a fervor for making a meaningful impact.

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How To Transform Money Mindsets for Women With Shannon Spotswood (Ep. 8)

How To Transform Money Mindsets for Women With Shannon Spotswood (Ep. 8)

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What if the key to financial success for women in veterinary medicine is just a mindset shift away?

Today on the ‘Making Hay Podcast,’ host Marcia Miller from RFG Advisory engages in a pivotal discussion with Shannon Spotswood, President of RFG Advisory Corporate. This crucial episode dives into the essence of financial empowerment for female veterinarians, a topic of vital importance given their substantial presence in the veterinary field. Shannon brings invaluable insights to this empowering dialogue, dedicated to guiding veterinarians towards skilled financial management.

Key Highlights:

  • Addressing Underrepresentation: Discover the prominent presence of women in veterinary medicine (80%) and the unique financial challenges they encounter
  • Breaking Mindset Barriers: Dive into the psychological obstacles women often face in finance, highlighting the need for confidence and challenging societal norms
  • Financial Freedom Perspectives: Shannon shares her expertise, advocating for women to approach finance fearlessly, and to rethink traditional money management and societal biases
  • “Strong Her Money” Initiative: The episode spotlights this initiative, co-created by Shannon, aiming to transform how women perceive and manage their finances
  • Real-Life Examples: Shannon provides personal stories to illustrate the stress and financial pressures in the field
  • Encouraging a Growth Mindset: Concluding the episode is a powerful call to adopt a positive, abundant mindset for a brighter financial and personal future
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

Connect with Shannon Spotswood:

 

About Shannon Spotswood:

Shannon Spotswood is a 25+ year industry veteran in financial services with an outstanding reputation built on leadership roles in professional management, investment banking, hedge fund management and business development. At RFG Advisory, Shannon oversees all aspects of RFG 2.0, a fully integrated platform designed for independent financial advisors and the implementation of strategic initiatives contributing to advisor success. Joining RFG Advisory in 2015, Shannon recognized the opportunity to combine her entrepreneurial experience with her passion to build an innovative, advisor-focused RIA of the future.

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Understanding Behavioral Biases in Veterinary Financial Planning With Dr. Jordan A. Hutchison (Ep. 7)

Understanding Behavioral Biases in Veterinary Financial Planning With Dr. Jordan A. Hutchison (Ep. 7)

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Have you ever thought about how your mind affects your money?

The “Making Hay” podcast, hosted by Marcia Miller, provides veterinarians with essential financial guidance tailored to their profession. In today’s discussion, Marcia teams up with Dr. Jordan A. Hutchinson, Vice President of Technology at RFG Advisory, to explore the critical role of investor behavior in financial planning, particularly for veterinarians.

Key Highlights:

  • “Dr. J’s” expertise in financial technology and planning, emphasizing the impact of emotions and biases on financial decisions
  • The DALBAR study’s insights into the ‘behavior gap’ in investment returns due to investor behavior, and the myth of the Fidelity study about frequent trading
  • The importance of understanding behavioral biases like action bias and confirmation bias in financial decision-making
  • The role of financial advisors in helping manage these biases and emotions, enhancing overall financial wellbeing
  • The discussion on the detrimental effects of herd mentality in investing and the benefits of a long-term investment perspective
  • Marcia Miller and Dr. J emphasize a personalized approach to investment that aligns with individual goals and aspirations
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

Connect with Dr. Jordan A. Hutchison:

About Dr. Jordan A. Hutchison:

Dr. Jordan A. Hutchison is the Vice President of Technology at RFG Advisory. His executive leadership expertise in WealthTech, human behavior, and financial planning strategy provide him with the ability to help financial professionals live extraordinary lives. He uses his deep understanding of financial advisors, practice management, and the wealth management business cycle to apply the proper needs to run a successful financial planning firm.

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Navigating the Financial Maze for Veterinarians (Ep. 6)

Navigating the Financial Maze for Veterinarians (Ep. 6)

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Ever wondered how veterinarians navigate the maze of student loans? 

Let’s unravel this mystery in the latest episode of the ‘Making Hay’ podcast with Marcia Miller as she welcomes back Matt Byars. Together, they share crucial insights and personal experiences that could change the way you think about your financial future. Discover why early financial planning isn’t just smart, it’s essential.

Key Highlights:

  • The difference between government and private student loans, with a focus on interest rates and repayment terms
  • The importance of budgeting and financial planning for debt repayment without compromising on life’s pleasures
  • An analysis of veterinarians’ debt-to-income ratio compared to national averages, highlighting better management potential due to higher starting salaries
  • Strategies for recent graduates and seasoned professionals to effectively manage and reduce student loan debt
  • The power of negotiation for a higher salary to improve the debt-to-income ratio
  • Practical advice for living within means and aiming to pay more than minimum on loans
  • The importance of avoiding unnecessary borrowing and investing wisely
  • Encouragement to seek professional financial planning help early in one’s career
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

Connect with Matthew Byars: 

 

About Matthew Byars: 

Matthew’s road to wealth management started in college, when he was majoring in Finance at UAB. There, he found his passion for the technical side of business, asset management, and the many other aspects of finance. From there, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career building value through the skills that I had developed in my studies, so he decided to go to business school at Clemson.

After earning his MBA, Matthew was fortunate to pursue an opportunity to realize one of his dreams to work on the institutional side of asset management for the London Stock Exchange in both Charlotte and New York City. After spending 5 years working in that field, he realized that there was something missing.

Matthew  decided to move back to Birmingham and pursue a career in wealth management and  was lucky enough to connect with Marcia. They work as a team. Marcia has been serving clients for over 25 years and Matthew brings institutional experience that gives clients insight and access to some of the technical skills that traditionally only corporations have had access to, really helping them to bring a holistic experience to their clients.

Outside of the office, Matthew’s main priority is spending time with his wife Amanda and their golden, Charlotte. In his free time, Matthew likes to go golfing and spend time with his friends and family at the lake.

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From Animal Care to Leadership With Keri Riddick (Ep. 5)

From Animal Care to Leadership With Keri Riddick (Ep. 5)

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Does a passion for animals ensure success in veterinary practice management? 

Step into the intriguing world of veterinary practice management with host Marcia Miller, a finance professional from RFG Advisory, as she welcomes Keri Riddick, former veterinarian and current executive director of the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association, to tackle this thought-provoking question.

Listen in as Keri recounts her journey from aspiring equine surgeon to leading a mixed animal practice and ultimately guiding a major veterinary association. The discussion sheds light on the often-overlooked business management challenges faced by veterinarians, especially those with limited business training.

Key Highlights:

  • Business Skills in Veterinary Practice: Gain insights into how business and negotiation skills can level the playing field for veterinarians
  • Emotional Challenges: Explore the delicate balance between emotional connections with animals and the pragmatic aspects of veterinary practice management
  • The Value of Support: Find out why a knowledgeable business advisor or partner is indispensable for making informed decisions in veterinary practice
  • Educational Insights: Follow Keri’s educational journey, highlighting how accounting classes were pivotal in her transition to a leadership role in veterinary medicine
  • Open Communication: Learn the importance of asking insightful questions and fostering open dialogue for growth and understanding in the veterinary field
  • Challenges in Veterinary Medicine: Dive into critical issues like staffing shortages and professional identity crises, and how organizations like GVMA are providing essential support
  • Networking and Community Support: Discover the transformative power of networking and relationship-building for professional development, with GVMA at the forefront of these efforts
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

Connect with Keri Riddick: 

 

About Keri Riddick: 

Dr. Keri Riddick received her Bachelor of Science in Microbiology in 1997 from Auburn University and her DVM from Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000. After veterinary training, she went to Birmingham, Alabama where she practiced mixed animal medicine for 2 years and then emergency medicine for 5 years. In 2008, she purchased a small animal hospital in Columbus, Georgia. Dr. Riddick has been an active member in the Georgia Veterinary Medical Association (GVMA) and following the sale of her practice she joined the GVMA team and has been serving as the Executive Director for the GVMA since 2022.

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Is Selling Your Practice Enough? With Rick Wedell (Ep. 4)

Is Selling Your Practice Enough? With Rick Wedell (Ep. 4)

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Have you ever questioned whether selling your veterinary practice (or any practice really)  is enough for a secure retirement?

Join us in the latest episode of the “Making Hay Podcast,” where host Marcia Miller invites Rick Wedell, Chief Investment Officer at RFG Advisory, for an insightful discussion on financial planning and retirement. This episode goes beyond conventional retirement advice, emphasizing the importance of early planning, accurate business valuation, and seeking professional financial guidance. 

Key Highlights:

  • Discover what attracts top buyers beyond your practice’s immediate success
  • Understand how your practice’s earnings and growth potential influence its market value
  • Find out how the cost of replacing your role can impact the sale of your practice
  • Identify hidden challenges in long-term commitments that could hinder selling your practice
  • Explore a range of exit strategies, from outright selling to forming partnerships
  • Learn about the trade-offs between a high selling price and maintaining control post-sale
  • Assess whether pursuing maximum profit aligns with your personal satisfaction and well-being
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

Connect with Rick Wedell: 

 

About Rick Wedell:
As the Chief Investment Officer for RFG Advisory Group, I am directly responsible for the direction and management of RFG’s investment strategies, setting the vision for our research capabilities, and managing a turn-key investment platform engineered to help our advisors and their clients with their most pressing investment needs. I previously spent over a decade at Bain Capital Credit, where I was the Head of the Consumer Group as well as an assistant Portfolio Manager for an $8bn CLO business.

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From Pet Care to Financial Planning With Marcia Miller (Ep. 3)

From Pet Care to Financial Planning With Marcia Miller (Ep. 3)

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Ever wondered how veterinary care intertwines with the intricacies of personal finance? 

In this captivating new episode, Marcia Miller, a seasoned financial advisor with over 25 years in financial services, opens the door to her dynamic team at RFG Advisory. The podcast is dedicated to the financial nuance of veterinarians, steered by Marcia’s enchanting blend of southern charm and a heart dedicated to service.

Don’t Miss Out On:

  • Introductions of team members Jennifer Lawrence and Matthew Byars 
  • The dance between Marcia’s rich experience and Matt’s innovative insights
  • The team’s client-centric three-step appointment process:
    • Get to Know You Meeting: A relaxed initial interaction without the burden of financial paperwork
    • Triage Meeting: A deep dive into the client’s financial aspirations and risk preferences
    • Diagnosis and Prescription Meeting: Crafting a bespoke financial strategy that mirrors a veterinarian’s care process
  • A sneak peek into the latest financial trends and explore how evaluations and smart tax planning can help shape your legacy
  • The importance of holistic financial planning 
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

Connect with Matthew Byars: 

Connect with Jennifer Lawrence: 

 

About Matthew Byars: 

Matthew’s road to wealth management started in college, when he was majoring in Finance at UAB. There, he found his passion for the technical side of business, asset management, and the many other aspects of finance. From there, he knew that he wanted to pursue a career building value through the skills that I had developed in my studies, so he decided to go to business school at Clemson.

After earning his MBA, Matthew was fortunate to pursue an opportunity to realize one of his dreams to work on the institutional side of asset management for the London Stock Exchange in both Charlotte and New York City. After spending 5 years working in that field, he realized that there was something missing.

Matthew  decided to move back to Birmingham and pursue a career in wealth management and  was lucky enough to connect with Marcia. They work as a team. Marcia has been serving clients for over 25 years and Matthew brings institutional experience that gives clients insight and access to some of the technical skills that traditionally only corporations have had access to, really helping them to bring a holistic experience to their clients.

Outside of the office, Matthew’s main priority is spending time with his wife Amanda and their golden, Charlotte. In his free time, Matthew likes to go golfing and spend time with his friends and family at the lake.

 

About Jennifer Lawrence: 

Jennifer, a lifelong resident of the Birmingham, AL area, currently calls Helena, AL home. She shares her life with her loving husband, a furry friend and two charming cats. Her journey began as a bank teller, a role she took on early in her career. However, since 2005, she has found her true calling in the world of asset management.

Jennifer’s professional journey saw her dedicating nearly 12 years to a previous Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) firm before she found her new home at RFG Advisory. Her dedication to her work shines through in her passion for client service. She strives to provide a pleasant experience for her clients, helping them feel supported and cared for..

Jennifer holds an associate degree in paralegal services, an achievement earned through an online college. As for her personal interests, she finds solace in the pages of a good book, cherishes quality time spent with family, enjoys the great outdoors with her dog, and has a wanderlust that leads her to explore new destinations whenever she can. Jennifer’s life is a blend of professional dedication and a deep appreciation for the simple joys of life.

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Money Matters for Vets with Marcia Miller (Ep. 2)

Money Matters for Vets with Marcia Miller (Ep. 2)

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Why do many veterinarians stumble financially? The answers might surprise you.

Fresh out of vet school? Find out the financial pitfalls most new grads overlook – and how to sidestep them. For the long-timers: Is selling your practice the golden ticket to retirement?

Jump into a riveting conversation with host Marcia Miller of RFG Advisory, who reveals the hidden intricacies of financial planning for veterinarians, from those fresh out of college to the seasoned pros! Drawing from her rich 25-year experience, Marcia pulls back the curtain on the unique hurdles faced by vets and unveils alternative routes to ensure a comfy retirement.

The can’t miss highlights from this episode include:

  • What happens in the first meetings with clients
  • The art of building trust from the get-go
  • Marcia sheds light on little-known strategies to boost financial efficiency
  • A glimpse into Marcia’s own journey and the surprising similarities between her challenges and those of a veterinarian
  • A refreshing perspective on financial planning where personalization isn’t just a buzzword, but the cornerstone of building successful financial strategies
  • And much more!

 

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

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Vet Your Finances With Marcia Miller (Ep. 1)

Vet Your Finances With Marcia Miller (Ep. 1)

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Is your financial plan tailored to your unique needs and life stage?

Planning your financial future isn’t just about numbers; it’s about living your best life. Financial advisor Marcia Miller talks candidly about her career journey, her specialization in advising veterinarians, and the wisdom she’s accumulated over 25 years in the industry.

In her inaugural episode of Making Hay, Marcia dives into:

  • Why veterinarians resonate with her due to their “servant’s heart”
  • Actionable steps for young and near-retirement professionals to make the most of their finances
  • The necessity of a holistic financial planning approach, including collaboration with CPAs and attorneys
  • The essence of her mantra “don’t quit,” and its role in finance and life
  • And much more!

Resources:

Connect with Marcia Miller: 

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Making Hay: Coming Soon!

Making Hay: Coming Soon!

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Welcome to the Making Hay podcast with Marcia Miller from RFG Advisory. In this podcast we help veterinarians, from new graduates to seasoned practitioners navigate the sometimes tricky waters of personal finance. We all know the saying “Making Hay While the Sun Shines”. As cheesy as it sounds, it represents a lot of what we help people do in their financial lives and businesses. We know each of you faces unique challenges, and we’re here to offer advice tailored just for you, anchored in service, stewardship, and a genuine understanding of your profession. Join Marcia Miller, your guide on this journey. Marcia has spent over 25 years in financial services, and her passion is helping vets like you get a handle on your finances. Tune into each episode as we meet at the intersection of veterinary practice and financial management. With help from experienced guests and insights from Marcia’s own expertise, we’re going to tackle your biggest financial questions head-on.

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