In this special first episode of 2026, host Suzanne Thomas welcomes Ron Sosa, a certified veterinary practice manager, neurodivergent leadership coach, and author of the upcoming book 'Rewriting the Rules.' Ron shares his journey from meeting Suzanne in 2025 to discussing important topics like masking, authenticity, and neurodivergent leadership. Emphasizing that his work is about honoring neurodivergent individuals, Ron explains how he helps professionals stop masking, prevent burnout, and lead authentically. He underscores the significance of starting the year gently, focusing on authenticity, and resisting societal pressures for perfection. The conversation also highlights Ron's companion workbook designed to support neurodivergent leaders. Packed with reflective insights and strategies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to redefine leadership on their own terms.00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement00:48 Ron Sosa's Journey and Mission02:17 Deep Dive into Neurodivergent Leadership05:10 Authenticity and Masking08:48 Challenges and Insights in Leadership13:07 Understanding and Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals21:16 Interviewing and Hiring Practices24:51 Decision Making and Leadership Styles35:06 Psychological Safety and Team Dynamics36:33 Creating Safe Spaces for Team Disagreements39:43 The Importance of Celebrating Failures40:36 Personal Experiences with Mistakes and Learning42:54 Encouraging Authenticity and Safe Conversations44:51 Starting the New Year Gently45:54 The Pressure of New Year Resolutions48:17 Learning from Leadership Examples52:53 Understanding Motivations in Veterinary Medicine01:00:10 The Inspiration Behind 'Rewriting the Rules'01:04:25 Where to Find Ron's Work and Final Thoughts🌟 Connect with RonLinkedIn: @ronald-sosa-cvpm-ccfp-pgd-cld-53453797/www.syn-apt.meGet the Left Unattended Playbook: https://www.syn-apt.me/what-s-left-un…Pre-order Ron's book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/3ehRzjCor directly with his publisher, Press49: https://www.press49.com/catalog/p/rew…Check out the Episode on Rons Podcast: Left Unattended where Suzanne was his guest:    • S1 – E1 – I’M NOT BEING DIFFICULT with Suz…  🎧 Subscribe to Leading Veterinary Teams On Air for real talk, tactical tools, and conversations that challenge the old-school way of leading in vet med.Join the Leading Veterinary Teams Community: https://leading-veterinary-teams-comm…And if this episode resonates, share it with a colleague, Subscribe, and leave a review — it helps more veterinary leaders find the show and join the movement toward a more inclusive and empowered profession.