Rapid Rounds: 5 ways to say “no”

Saying no can be one of the hardest skills to master in veterinary medicine, especially when the needs of patients, clients, colleagues, and the practice often come first. In this Rapid Rounds episode of The Resilient Vet: Mind and Body Strategies for Success, cohost Jennifer Edwards, DVM, ACC, CPC, ELI-MP, shares 5 practical ways to say no with clarity, confidence, and compassion, including when to offer an alternative, acknowledge someone else’s feelings, or stand firm. These bite-sized strategies offer practical language for setting healthier boundaries without guilt or overexplaining.

This episode closes out a series on saying yes when the answer is no, following “You said yes again, didn’t you?” and the 2-part “Wired to say yes” series on the inner and outer game of saying yes.

Below is a partial transcript, which has been edited for clarity.

Edwards: One word, 2 letters. So small, but so powerful, and somehow it is the hardest thing to say in veterinary practice. Of course, I am talking about the word no. Welcome to The Resilient Vet Podcast: Mind and Body Strategies for Success, where we talk about everything resilience in vet med. Because, well, we all know we need it, right? Physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually—it's all so important for us to be able to have long, fulfilling, happy, and healthy careers.

Today's episode is what we call “Rapid Rounds,” where we are giving 5 tips in 5 minutes. I'm Dr Jennifer Edwards. I was a practice owner for years, and I remember what it was like. It was so overwhelming. It was lonely. It was hard. I was one of those who really struggled with those difficult conversations. I would avoid them, and then if I finally had them, I would replay them. How did I come across? What did I say? It's just so hard sometimes as a leader, and to know how to build the cultures we're looking for, and to really have an empowering experience.

So, here I am. I am now an [International Coaching Federation]–certified leadership coach. I also do team development and public speaking, so I can now take my experience, my knowledge, and pay it forward to help you get through this journey of leadership. So, feel free to reach out. I'm here today with my cohost, Aaron Shaw. Aaron, tell us a little bit about [yourself].