Every veterinary professional brings their own experiences, beliefs, and assumptions into the workplace. While bias is a natural part of being human, it can quietly influence how we communicate with teammates, care for clients, and create a culture where people either thrive or withdraw. Susan Swendsen Harris joins me to explore how becoming aware of our biases can strengthen psychological safety, improve collaboration, and help teams build greater trust.

Drawing on her experience as a veterinary social worker and leadership coach, Susan explains the four common types of bias that commonly appear in veterinary medicine and why recognizing them is the first step toward creating healthier workplace relationships. Through relatable examples, we discuss how bias can affect everything from onboarding new team members to interacting with clients and collaborating across departments. Rather than judging ourselves for these natural tendencies, we explore how curiosity, self-awareness, and shared language can help teams move beyond assumptions and build stronger connections.

The conversation also explores the four elements of psychological safety and why creating an environment where people feel included, safe to learn, comfortable contributing, and empowered to respectfully challenge one another leads to healthier teams and better patient care. Susan reminds us that these are not soft skills. They are leadership skills that require practice, vulnerability, and courage. By slowing down, remaining curious, and choosing connection over judgment, veterinary professionals can build workplaces where people feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow together.

What’s Inside:

• How unconscious bias influences communication, teamwork, and client relationships
• The four types of bias that commonly show up in veterinary medicine
• The four elements of psychological safety and why they matter for every team
• Practical ways leaders can build trust through curiosity, accountability, and open dialogue

Mentioned in this Episode:

How to reduce bias in your workplace | The Way We Work, a TED series
Vet Med Wellness and Leadership Podcast
Full Circle Lab
Crystal Stokes on LinkedIn