Speaking
What I Have to Say
Changing the Conversation in Veterinary Medicine
“I don’t give lectures. I start conversations — because conversations are what move people.”
The biggest threat to veterinary medicine isn’t the cost of care or even technology; it’s the risk of imploding from the inside out because of how we treat people. I don’t say this theoretically; I say this from a perspective of lived experience —the kind of experience that happens on the floor of a busy clinic or in quiet hallway conversations. Our people are our greatest resources, and when we invest in our teams, we can do extraordinary things for animals.
“My goal isn’t to make people feel bad about where they are — it’s to help them see what’s possible if we start with honesty and humanity.”
I approach every audience with the goal of having honest conversations, not founded in judgment or shame, but with the goal of reflection— resetting how we see and treat each other. There is often a fundamental breakdown in communication and understanding between people within veterinary medicine. This idea that roles are to be loaded with tasks rather than trust, purpose, and potential loses sight of the person behind the role. When the people behind the roles stop feeling seen, they burn out. This is the true cost of a misaligned workplace culture. Individuals who are burned out cannot bring their best to animal care; they can only bring what is left.
“The veterinary profession will thrive when every person — at every level — feels heard, valued, and part of the mission.”
Everything I speak about comes from experience. Whether it’s from being on a farm or leading teams at a corporate or independent workplace, my perspective is one that’s hard-earned and backed by results because I’ve lived the very challenges and made the same mistakes that I now help practices overcome.
My sessions aren’t designed to overwhelm audiences. They are designed to create a space for reflection, honesty, and growth. Together, we ask ourselves the tough questions and take the time to listen to the answers truly. Leaders, aspiring leaders, veterinary teams, and key decision makers will walk away with actionable tools they can start using right away.
My sessions aren’t designed to overwhelm audiences. They are designed to create a space for reflection, honesty, and growth. Together, we ask ourselves the tough questions and take the time to listen to the answers truly. Leaders, aspiring leaders, veterinary teams, and key decision makers will walk away with actionable tools they can start using right away.
“I’ve built my career around this truth: when we invest in the humans behind the medicine, everything else follows.”
Contact Me Today
Humanity and Empathy First
Dr. Marshall believes that great veterinary medicine starts with people, not policies, tasks, or protocols. Her approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and authenticity, helping teams reconnect with the human side of their work. She encourages every practice, leader, and key decision maker to look beyond roles and titles to see and show up for the whole person behind the job.
Honesty and Courage in Conversation
Dr. Marshall’s speaking style is conversational and transparent. She doesn’t talk at audiences, she talks with them. By creating a safe space for reflection and constructive discomfort, she encourages leaders and teams to ask the hard questions and face the truths that lead to genuine progress. Every conversation is grounded in lived experience and backed by real results. Attendees leave with clear, actionable steps they can start implementing the very next day.
Sustainable Change Through Connection and Culture
Dr. Marshall’s ultimate goal isn’t awareness, it’s transformation. She focuses on helping teams build trust, strengthen communication, and align purpose. Her sessions equip attendees with actionable tools that translate into real change when it comes to improving retention, engagement, and patient care.
What I can offer
Speaking Topics
Humans as Resources
Dr. Marshall challenges organizations to rethink how they view their teams and treat people as full humans, not just roles or job titles.
By valuing the whole person, practices unlock the full potential of their most valuable resource: their people.
By valuing the whole person, practices unlock the full potential of their most valuable resource: their people.
The Cost of Culture
Every open position, every resignation, and every disengaged employee has a price. Dr. Marshall helps leaders uncover the hidden costs of culture and guides them toward building teams that thrive through trust, purpose, and accountability.
The Veterinary Business Case for Belonging
Strong practices are built when every voice, across all roles, is heard. Through data and lived experience, Dr. Marshall demonstrates how inclusion, communication, and belonging directly impact performance, retention, and client satisfaction.
Inclusivity Above All
Real inclusivity isn’t a policy, it’s a practice. Dr. Marshall explores practical ways to build workplaces where every team member feels seen, valued, and supported in doing their best work, every day.
Everyday Leadership
Leadership isn’t confined to titles. Drawing from her own experience as a relief veterinarian, corporate leader, and consultant, Dr. Marshall shows teams how to lead from where they are, using empathy, awareness, and daily actions to influence positive change.
The Art of Retention and Recruitment
Three questions should come to mind when employers are thinking about retention and recruitment. In this session, Dr. Marshall shares those three questions and expands on how they make a difference in your workplace.
The Reviews
What Partners and Audiences Are Saying
“I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Kemba Marshall during my tenure as CEO of the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association. She was not only an exceptional presenter at our annual conference, but also a tireless and authentic advocate for veterinary medicine and the professionals who serve within it.
Dr. Marshall’s depth of experience and expertise is matched by her unwavering professionalism and genuine kindness. She has a rare ability to elevate both the conversation and the people around her, leaving the profession stronger and more forward-thinking as a result. A leading voice for meaningful change, she brings clarity, insight, and purpose to every engagement.”
Any organization would be fortunate to have Dr. Marshall represent them through her content, strategic vision, and leadership."
Dr. Marshall’s depth of experience and expertise is matched by her unwavering professionalism and genuine kindness. She has a rare ability to elevate both the conversation and the people around her, leaving the profession stronger and more forward-thinking as a result. A leading voice for meaningful change, she brings clarity, insight, and purpose to every engagement.”
Any organization would be fortunate to have Dr. Marshall represent them through her content, strategic vision, and leadership."
John Tramontana, Former CEO of Michigan Veterinary Medical Association
“I found the time spent with Kemba today very inspirational and empowering. She lived up to everything I’ve heard about her.”
Janet Donlin, DVM, CAE, Chief Executive Officer of the AVMA.
“Dr. Kemba Marshall is an extraordinary speaker and respected thought leader whose depth of knowledge and warmth leave a lasting impression. She brings insight, humor, and authenticity to every engagement, combining expertise with a genuine care for people. A true force in advancing veterinary medicine, and an absolute pleasure to work with.”
John Stevens, CEO, Ontario Veterinary Medical Association.
My Events
Events
Upcoming Events
AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference 2026
Chicago, IL Jan. 8-10, 2026]
Chicago, IL Jan. 8-10, 2026]
Orlando, FL Jan. 17- 21, 2026
Past Events
AVMA Veterinary Leadership Conference
2023, 2024, 2025
VMX
2022, 2023, 2024, 2025
Ontario Vet Med Association
2023
Portland Vet Med Association
Lincoln Memorial University College of Veterinary Medicine
2021 Commencement Address
Colorado State University College of Agriculture
2021 Commencement Address
*Note: Private Events are not listed here. Please reach out to determine current availability.
Get in touch
Book Dr. Kemba Marshall
Ready to bring Dr. Marshall to your next event or leadership gathering?
Whether you’re hosting a conference keynote, team development workshop, or panel discussion, Dr. Marshall brings real-world experience, energy, and a people-first approach to every audience. Reach out to start the conversation. She’d love to learn more about your goals and how she can make a meaningful impact on your event.
Contact Me TodayWhether you’re hosting a conference keynote, team development workshop, or panel discussion, Dr. Marshall brings real-world experience, energy, and a people-first approach to every audience. Reach out to start the conversation. She’d love to learn more about your goals and how she can make a meaningful impact on your event.
Let's talk
Book Dr. Kemba Marshall
Ready to bring Dr. Marshall to your next event or leadership gathering?
Whether you’re hosting a conference keynote, team development workshop, or panel discussion, Dr. Marshall brings real-world experience, energy, and a people-first approach to every audience.
Reach out to start the conversation. She’d love to learn more about your goals and how she can make a meaningful impact on your event.
602-309-8633klmdvmconsulting@gmail.comWhether you’re hosting a conference keynote, team development workshop, or panel discussion, Dr. Marshall brings real-world experience, energy, and a people-first approach to every audience.
Reach out to start the conversation. She’d love to learn more about your goals and how she can make a meaningful impact on your event.