AAHA launches new book on positive leadership

The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) has announced it will unveil a new book from renowned “positive change ninja” and co-founder of Flourish Veterinary Consulting, Josh Vaisman, MAPPCP (PgD) entitled “Lead to Thrive: The Science of Crafting a Positive Veterinary Culture.”

According to an association release, “Lead to Thrive” is a resource for happy, engaged, resilient veterinary teams. It presents case-based and evidence-guided solutions for creating and retaining successful workplaces. Activities and assessments following each chapter emphasize the 4 P’s of positive leadership¹: 

• Psychological Safety – creating a safe space for voice
• Purpose – enabling meaningful work experiences

• Path – celebrating and developing strengths
• Partnership – cultivating inclusion and belonging

“This book is an attempt to fill that gap for our profession, to teach us how we can lead in ways that let people be the best parts of who they are. So that work does actually contribute to fulfillment,” expressed Vaisman.¹ “And the result of that is it turns out that when people are really fulfilled and thriving in their work, they do really good work and we solve problems together and we make a meaningful difference in the world.”

Vaisman’s graduate degree is in applied positive psychology and coaching psychology. In his current role, he speaks to organizations and works with individual veterinary practices coaching, team building, and culture. He recently led AAHA’s Beyond Medicine Workshop (BMW), a series of virtual gatherings for all veterinary professionals, that centered on non-clinical skills including leadership, collaboration, and well-being. Over 800 BMW attendees took steps toward a healthier, happier veterinary career as Vaisman led them through the science of positive leadership. 

“Josh Vaisman lays out the case for why leaders must be focused on making people feel safe, valued, and heard at work in order for them to flourish,” said Debbie Boone, CVPM, owner of 2 Manage Vets Consulting.¹ 

“Lead to Thrive” is available in print and audiobook formats exclusively at aaha.org/store. It’s currently available for preorder and will be available for purchase on May 22, 2023.

Reference

‘Lead to Thrive’ for healthier, more effective veterinary teams. News release. American Animal Hospital Association. April 11, 2023. Accessed April 11, 2023.