Drat & Drake: Patti Eddington - Don't Look in the Freezer

Today we interview author and former journalist Patti Eddington, about her book "Don’t Look in the Freezer: The Very Strange Life of a Veterinarian’s Wife" (released in April 2026) and how it grew from early blog-era writing and workshops into a more honest memoir-like collection of stories. 

We discuss the realities of being constantly on call while building a practice, raising their daughter Molly around the clinic, a painful turning point during Patty’s foot surgery, and how respect, communication, and feeling “seen” sustain relationships in veterinary life. 

Patti reflects on changes in hiring and expectations across generations of veterinarians, and shares her current work with book events and free “Write Your Story” workshops, plus upcoming signings across Michigan, including Mackinac Island.

00:00 Meet Patty Eddington
01:15 Why This Book Hits
03:15 Origin Story of Freezer
07:09 Memoir Truth and Voice
09:08 When Emergencies Flip
10:00 Vets Are People Too
11:28 Marriage on Call
14:50 Clinic Kids and Critters
16:13 Foot Surgery Breaking Point
23:21 Money Struggles and Making It
24:17 No Choice But Success
25:36 When It Finally Felt Secure
27:14 Frugal Years And Gratitude
28:03 Waiting To Have Molly
29:35 Raising Molly Their Way
35:57 Grandparenting And James
38:59 Generations Of Veterinarians
45:11 Whats Next For The Family
48:09 Workshops Book Tours Farewell