In this episode, host Peter Tanella sits down with Dr. Justin Toth for a candid and thoughtful conversation about veterinary ownership, leadership, and what it truly takes to build a practice that lasts.
From a mechanically curious kid outside Atlanta to the owner of Dallas Highway Animal Hospital, Dr. Toth shares the journey that shaped his career — and the lessons that shaped his leadership.
With honesty and humility, he opens up about stepping into ownership at a young age, learning leadership through real-world mistakes, and discovering that strong culture and trust matter just as much as clinical excellence. His reflections offer a grounded look at what it means to lead with intention in a profession that continues to evolve.
In this episode, Dr. Toth reflects on:
✨ Finding his path into veterinary medicine — and the power of early mentorship
✨ Transitioning from associate to owner with the support of the right partner
✨ Learning leadership the hard way — and earning the “PhD” that comes from experience
✨ Why culture is one of the hardest — and most important — parts of practice ownership
✨ Building buy-in by listening, involving teams, and leading collaboratively
✨ The business realities behind wellness plans, pricing, and sustainability
✨ How technology and the evolving human-animal bond are reshaping expectations
✨ What ownership really means beyond finances — legacy, community, and impact
✨ Creating meaningful ownership pathways for associates
✨ Where veterinary medicine may be headed next — and why another reset could be coming
Whether you’re an associate considering ownership, a current practice owner refining your leadership style, or a veterinarian thinking about legacy and longevity, this episode delivers insight, reassurance, and hard-earned wisdom from someone who’s lived every chapter.
🎧 Tune in to hear Dr. Toth’s experience-driven perspective on leading a veterinary practice with adaptability, intention, and heart.
YouTube: https://youtu.be/X2ng4ZOCd-0
Apple Podcasts: https://bit.ly/4qCm8jf
Spotify: https://bit.ly/4tH04qo