Evolving Beyond the Exam Room: Redefining Purpose, Wellbeing, and Innovation in Veterinary Medicine

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In this inspiring episode of the Veterinary Business Podcast, Dr. Mark Masaro—a veterinarian, technology leader, and mental health advocate—shares his transformative journey from clinical practice to impactful roles in technology, education, and professional well-being.

Dr. Masaro opens up about the identity challenges veterinarians face when stepping beyond traditional clinical paths, and how redefining what it means to serve the profession can unlock new purpose, fulfillment, and influence. With firsthand experience navigating burnout and self-doubt, he offers an honest and deeply relatable look into the emotional and professional shifts required to build a sustainable career in veterinary medicine.

This conversation explores how technology—particularly AI and practice efficiency tools—can reduce cognitive load, alleviate burnout, and empower veterinary professionals to perform at their best without compromising their well-being. Dr. Masaro also highlights the importance of community, vulnerability, mentorship, and intentional networking when exploring non-clinical opportunities.

Whether you’re a student questioning your future path, a doctor feeling the strain of practice life, or a leader shaping the next era of veterinary careers, this episode challenges traditional narratives and offers hope, strategy, and vision for a more flexible, mentally healthy, and tech-supported profession.

Tune in to discover how embracing innovation, empathy, and personal growth can unlock new possibilities inside—and far beyond—the exam room.

Key Takeaways & Time Stamps

• 00:00 – 05:30: Redefining Veterinary Identity
  The episode opens with Dr. Masaro sharing his transition from clinical practice to technology and advocacy. He explains how stepping outside of hands-on medicine doesn’t diminish the mission or meaning behind being a veterinarian. Instead, it expands impact into new arenas like software, education, and wellness.
• 05:30 – 12:00: Mental Health & Burnout in Veterinary Medicine
  Dr. Masaro openly discusses navigating imposter syndrome, stress, and anxiety throughout his career. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing mental health and dismantling the stigma around seeking support within the profession.
• 12:00 – 18:00: Technology as a Tool for Well-Being
  Rather than replacing veterinarians, technology enhances clinical and administrative efficiency. Dr. Masaro highlights AI and digital tools that minimize paperwork, reduce cognitive fatigue, and support better clinical decisions—ultimately strengthening mental health and career longevity.
• 18:00 – 23:00: Networking & Mindset for Non-Clinical Transitions
  Curiosity, courage, and community are key. Dr. Masaro shares practical advice on networking, leveraging LinkedIn groups, and cultivating a mindset that embraces new opportunities outside traditional practice pathways.
• 23:00 – 28:15: The Future: Technology, Empathy & Education
  The conversation concludes with a forward-looking vision—one where technology amplifies human skills, empathy remains central, and veterinary students are introduced early to diverse career pathways. Education, awareness, and mental health advocacy will shape a more sustainable, fulfilling future for veterinary professionals.

Dr. Mark Massaro

Founder/Moderator, NCVC: Non-Clinical Vet Med CareersVeterinary Advisor & Ambassador, Strata

Dr. Mark Massaro is a veterinarian and technology-driven leader dedicated to creating new opportunities for veterinary professionals beyond traditional clinical paths. With experience spanning clinical practice, hospital operations, software product management, and tech advisory roles, he bridges the gap between veterinary medicine and innovation.

After years working in his family’s veterinary hospital and completing a rotating internship, Dr. Massaro transitioned into the veterinary technology space, contributing to product development and operational strategy at leading platforms including Instinct, Digitail, VetRec (YC S23), Vetcelerator, and VetmEDUcate—supporting over 120 veterinarians across seven hospitals in his most recent director role.

Driven by his passion for empowering veterinary talent, Dr. Massaro founded NCVC (Non-Clinical Vet Med Careers), a free community and job platform that helps veterinary professionals explore non-clinical career paths. NCVC now includes multiple LinkedIn groups supporting non-clinical roles, tech-focused careers, networking, and hiring.

In addition to clinical work and career mentorship, Dr. Massaro serves as a Veterinary Advisor & Ambassador for Strata, helping the profession navigate the expanding landscape of veterinary business tools and services.

A proud New Jersey native, he now works as a veterinary technician while continuing to mentor veterinary professionals, champion career flexibility, and push forward the future of vet-med innovation. Outside of work, he enjoys competing in sports and exploring the outdoors with his wife and their three dogs.

Connect with Dr. Massaro:

• LinkedIn
• Website