The Cone of Shame Veterinary Podcast
364 - Fear and Honesty in Vet Medicine
Dr. Tina Neel joins Dr. Andy Roark to talk about the hard but essential rule she has lived by in her career: never, ever lie. From leading a 20-doctor hospital to surviving cancer three times, Dr. Neel shares how honesty, even in the most painful situations, builds trust, protects your reputation, and helps you sleep at night. She reflects on the lessons learned from decades in practice, the importance of mentoring young veterinarians to think independently, and what she wishes would change in the profession today. If you’ve ever wrestled with mistakes, ethics, or finding your footing as a leader in veterinary medicine, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with courage and truth. Gang, let’s get into this episode!
Rockstar Vets: https://tinaneel.com/about/
Dr. Tina Neel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-neel-dvm-ms-08297319/
Surviving Cancer Substack: https://substack.com/@drtinaneel
Dr. Andy Roark Charming the Angry Client Team Training Course
Dr. Andy Roark Swag: drandyroark.com/shop
All Links: linktr.ee/DrAndyRoark
Dr. Tina Neel is a nationally recognized veterinarian, entrepreneur, and mentor with over four decades of experience in clinical practice and veterinary business leadership. She has founded, owned, and sold 11 successful veterinary hospitals and currently coaches veterinarians on how to build profitable, sustainable practices without burning out.
Dr. Neel is also the co-founder and CEO of Angimal, Inc., a biotech startup advancing new cancer therapeutics for animals, and she serves on the board of Angiex, Inc., a clinical-stage company developing targeted therapies for human cancer.
Known for her honest, practical approach, Dr. Neel has helped countless veterinarians improve their business skills, communicate more effectively, and find joy in practice again. Her passion lies in empowering the next generation of veterinary professionals to think like owners and lead with heart.
When she’s not coaching or consulting, Dr. Neel publishes multiple newsletters on veterinary leadership, pet parent education, and cancer survival—drawing on her own journey as a two-time cancer survivor. She’s also a devoted grandmother, OSU fan, and herb-growing, quilt-making Oklahoma native.





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