Rehab Rebels: Alternative Career Paths for Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, & Speech Language Pathology Professionals

Tanner Welsch DPT
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  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
Rehab Rebels: Alternative Career Paths for Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, & Speech Language Pathology Professionals

Do you feel burned out, not appreciated, undervalued both financially & professionally? Realized working in the health industry is not all it was promised to be? Are numbers & the bottom line prioritized over your health, job satisfaction, & high quality patient care causing you to dread going into work?You want to make a non-traditional career change but face sunken tuition cost, judgment for wanting to leave a secure career in the health field, & unsure about which alternative career direction to take? But know there has to be a better work life balance. It is ok to want a career change, maybe even one outside of your profession. You are not a bad person for wanting this & you are not alone! My name is Tanner, and I'm a physical therapist myself, on a mission to uncover and document the world of alternative non-traditional careers & income opportunities for rehab professionals (OT, COTA, PT, PTA, & SLPs). My goal is to provide a guide(s) you can follow to a career or business with more freedom, income, and fulfillment.This podcast will help you discover, learn, & gain insights by having honest authentic conversations with therapists who felt: burnout, undervalued, dreaded going to work every morning, stuck with debt, guilt for wanting to leave their career, & unable to get out of a toxic work environment.  As they share the outcomes they achieved from their alternative career transitions: built a business that allowed them to spend more time with their family, be more fulfilled, have more autonomy, & build something for themselves. Or landed a job that truly made the most of their skills with less stress & more fulfillment. Other main topics you will hear in detail are: alternative income, personal finance, side hustles, & starting your own business. What are you waiting for? You have been thinking of this change for far too long. Click play to discover the next phase of your career and develop an actionable plan to make it a reality :)

  1. 11/21/2024

    Navigating the Realities of Podcasting for Passive Income with Rehab Rebels Journey 068

    Send us a text #068 Ever wondered if starting a podcast is your ticket to passive income? Today, I share my personal journey through the ups and downs of hosting Rehab Rebels. Despite the challenges and the realization that podcasting isn't a quick path to financial freedom, the past two and a half years have been an incredible ride filled with growth and learning. With nearly a thousand downloads in the last month, our community continues to thrive, thanks to listeners and guests who bring diverse perspectives on alternative career paths. As I step back to recharge, it's not goodbye forever but a pause to reflect and recalibrate. Through this heartfelt update, I express immense gratitude for everyone who has been a part of this journey. I've learned that having a digital presence and marketing strategy is crucial, something I didn't have when embarking on this podcast adventure. Nevertheless, the experience of connecting with fascinating individuals has been invaluable. While I'm taking an indefinite break, I remain hopeful for what's next and wish each of you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous 2025. Keep an eye out for future updates, and thank you for being part of the Rehab Rebels family! Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    4 min

  2. 11/07/2024

    Bringing a Healthcare Product to Market with Shehla Rooney PT 067

    Send us a text #067 Have you ever wondered what it takes to bring a physical product to market in the healthcare sector? Join us as we explore Shehla's inspiring journey from being a dedicated physical therapist to becoming the CEO of GoKnee LLC. She shares how her passion for helping knee replacement patients regain their mobility led her to develop a groundbreaking knee device and exercise program. In this episode, Shehla shares the complexities of product development and marketing, from obtaining a utility patent to understanding the intricacies of targeting the right audience. You will learn about creating a prototype, navigating the patent process, and making strategic decisions about bringing the product to market while balancing entrepreneurship with family demands. Shella discusses the transformation from clinician to entrepreneur and the importance of value-based pricing over cost-plus pricing. Despite her personal and professional challenges, Shehla's journey underscores the importance of seeking support, maintaining a resilient mindset, and staying true to one's vision.  Shella touches on the unique experiences of being a solopreneur, a woman and having an ethnic background in a predominantly male-dominated industry.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in healthcare entrepreneurship, product development, and the transformative power of innovation. For links and show notes, head to: https://rehabrebels.org/067 Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    44 min

  3. 10/24/2024

    Launching Online Programs Successfully with Sarah Good OT 066

    Send us a text #066 Imagine overcoming imposter syndrome and learning to value your unique skills as a therapist. Sarah, an Occupational Therapist (OT) and mindfulness teacher from Ottawa, Ontario, shares her transformative journey from traditional OT roles to launching her private practice during a global pandemic. This rapid shift to online consultations during the pandemic was one of the pivotal moments in her career.  In this episode, you will learn about the struggles of charging your worth, the importance of creating a supportive network of fellow therapists, the intricacies of implementing online programs, how she gauged interest to achieve a successful program launch, and the organizing strategies that helped her balancing this with her client caseloads and personal life. Sarah breaks down the process of taking her mindfulness-based symptom management curriculum online, from marketing challenges to managing group dynamics and overcoming technical issues. She dispels the myth that online services should be cheaper and underscores their true value, especially for patients with persistent pain. Whether you're considering a career shift in occupational therapy or looking for practical strategies to navigate online services, Sarah's invaluable advice is not to be missed. For links and show notes, head to: https://rehabrebels.org/066 Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    34 min

  4. 10/10/2024

    Building a Freelance Career in Medical Writing with Caitlyn Tivy DPT 065

    Send us a text #065 Do you feel trapped or burnt out in your current professional role? In this episode, we hear from Caitlyn, who faced burnout and dissatisfaction in her clinical rehab role and found a refreshing passion in medical writing and consulting, particularly within LGBTQ+ health companies. Caitlyn walks us through her initial struggles, the eureka moment that came from an online writing course, and how she navigated the subsequent career transition to become a successful freelancer. What started as a side hustle while working for a telehealth company evolved into a full-time career. In this episode, you will learn how Caitlyn started pitching clients and gradually built a successful freelance career, the financial insecurities and the mental struggles that come with freelancing, the idea of taking on part-time roles as a safety net, setting realistic timelines for business success and building supportive networks. Caitlyn shares a wealth of insights and inspiration for anyone contemplating a career shift or already in the throes of freelancing. Whether you're feeling burnt out in your current role or simply exploring new career possibilities, this episode provides practical advice and heartfelt encouragement to help you succeed in your journey. For links and show notes, head to: https://rehabrebels.org/065 Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    39 min

  5. 09/26/2024

    Entrepreneurial Challenges in Surf Therapy with Naomi Matanick OT 064

    Send us a text #064 What happens when you blend a love for the ocean with a dedication to neurodiverse children? Naomi Matanick, a passionate occupational therapist, reveals her inspiring journey from traditional therapy settings to starting a surf therapy business. Starting a new business is never easy, especially one as innovative as surf therapy. Naomi opens up about the early challenges of bootstrapping her business, from overcoming fear and analysis paralysis to coping with imposter syndrome. In this episode, you will learn how Naomi discovered surf therapy, the challenges she encountered early on in her practice, how to conduct surf therapy during the colder seasons, the logistics of growing the business, and the importance of adapting services based on client needs. Naomi’s story underscores the necessity of taking the plunge even when everything isn’t perfectly in place, providing an open look at the pressures entrepreneurs face and the importance of perseverance. We also discuss the importance of marketing and networking, the benefits of having a business coach, and the ongoing process of refining her business model. Naomi's journey offers invaluable insights for anyone looking to turn their passion into a thriving business, emphasizing the importance of following one's passions, adapting professional expertise, and persevering through challenges. Naomi's surf therapy business not only provides a unique therapeutic niche but also serves as an inspiration for others to explore unconventional paths in their careers. For links and show notes, head to: https://rehabrebels.org/064 Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    33 min

  6. 09/12/2024

    Hippotherapy and Aquatic Therapy in Private Practice with Gina Taylor OT 063

    Send us a text #063 Ready to break free from traditional rehab methods and create a practice that truly resonates with your passions? Gina Taylor is an occupational therapist who has successfully built her private practice by integrating hippotherapy and aquatic therapy. In this episode you will learn about her career transition, balancing motherhood, implementing innovative therapy strategies, and the importance of partnerships that prioritize community service over financial gain. She explains how she diversified her practice to include aquatic and nature-based therapies, overcoming initial challenges such as integrating hippotherapy and gradually building a consistent client base. Gina provides invaluable advice for rehab professionals contemplating their own private practice, highlighting the importance of hands-on experience in their chosen niche before committing fully, and meticulous financial tracking. Gina's story is a testament to the possibility of building a unique path in the rehab field while balancing a fulfilling personal life. Join us for an episode full of practical insights and encouragement to take those first steps toward your dream practice. For links and show notes, head to: https://rehabrebels.org/063 Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    33 min

  7. 08/29/2024

    Entrepreneurship and AI in Healthcare with Jonathon Lee DPT 062

    Send us a text #062 How can healthcare professionals transition from clinical practice to successful entrepreneurship? Join us as we chat with Jonathon Lee, a physical therapist who co-founded Pickle, an AI-powered job search platform for clinicians. The global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped his mission and vision for the healthcare industry and led him to create this AI-powered job search platform that helps clinicians find roles matching their skills and interests. In this episode, you will hear about Jonathon's journey through healthtech, medtech, pharma, and startups. And you will learn valuable insights into the critical steps necessary for launching a startup, from developing a network of supportive peers to acquiring essential non-clinical skills. Jonathon’s story highlights the importance of building a diverse startup team and finding mentors to maintain accountability and share knowledge. Join us and find the inspiration you need for your own entrepreneurial journey in the healthcare industry. For links and show notes, head to: https://rehabrebels.org/062 Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    39 min

  8. 08/15/2024

    From Occupational Therapist to Successful Recruiter with Wen Hung OT 061

    Send us a text #061 Prioritizing personal well-being and family needs is essential, even if it means transitioning to a completely different career path. Wen Hung, a former occupational therapist, reflects on the pivotal moments that led her to leave her rehab profession, including the challenges of inadequate maternity leave and the impact of COVID-19 on her work-life balance. Through a friend's advice, she found a new career that allowed her to prioritize her well-being and family, all while working from home. In this episode, you will learn the differences between the potential earnings and challenges of full-time and commission-based roles, the best platforms for finding job opportunities, the traits that make a successful recruiter, the harsh realities of the job market as a recruiter, and passive income sources such as rental properties. From Wen's initial role in patient education for medical devices to learning UX/UI design, she finally found her niche in recruiting. Emphasizing the importance of empathy and active listening, Wen provides actionable tips on building strong candidate relationships and navigating the complexities of career transitions. Don't miss our conversation which is packed with practical advice and insights for those considering becoming a recruiter. For links and show notes, head to: https://rehabrebels.org/061 Start your Rehab Rebel Journey! Receive access to FREE monthly progress updates, interview schedule, and a BONUS Top 25 Alternative Careers List for Rehab Professionals when you Start your Rebel Career and be part of the Rehab Rebels Tribe! Join us on Instagram and Facebook or your favorite social media @rehabrebels! Subscribe through Apple Podcast or Spotify! Support the show

    32 min
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5
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About

Do you feel burned out, not appreciated, undervalued both financially & professionally? Realized working in the health industry is not all it was promised to be? Are numbers & the bottom line prioritized over your health, job satisfaction, & high quality patient care causing you to dread going into work?You want to make a non-traditional career change but face sunken tuition cost, judgment for wanting to leave a secure career in the health field, & unsure about which alternative career direction to take? But know there has to be a better work life balance. It is ok to want a career change, maybe even one outside of your profession. You are not a bad person for wanting this & you are not alone! My name is Tanner, and I'm a physical therapist myself, on a mission to uncover and document the world of alternative non-traditional careers & income opportunities for rehab professionals (OT, COTA, PT, PTA, & SLPs). My goal is to provide a guide(s) you can follow to a career or business with more freedom, income, and fulfillment.This podcast will help you discover, learn, & gain insights by having honest authentic conversations with therapists who felt: burnout, undervalued, dreaded going to work every morning, stuck with debt, guilt for wanting to leave their career, & unable to get out of a toxic work environment.  As they share the outcomes they achieved from their alternative career transitions: built a business that allowed them to spend more time with their family, be more fulfilled, have more autonomy, & build something for themselves. Or landed a job that truly made the most of their skills with less stress & more fulfillment. Other main topics you will hear in detail are: alternative income, personal finance, side hustles, & starting your own business. What are you waiting for? You have been thinking of this change for far too long. Click play to discover the next phase of your career and develop an actionable plan to make it a reality :)

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