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If you have ever considered creating an online course, or if you are already a course creator, you have probably thought a lot about marketing. The challenge is how to be thoughtful and creative in marketing your course, which becomes a separate income stream for your business.

Starting a podcast is one of the best ways to market your course while creating a solid, compound income stream, and we are talking strategy in today's encore as I share what I’ve learned through my experience. Join us!

You’ll Learn:

• Why starting a podcast has been one of the most rewarding personal and professional endeavors of my life
• Why podcasts are the perfect way to produce authentic, evergreen content and establish trust
• How a podcast becomes a way to avoid burnout and take self-care breaks while staying consistent with releasing and re-releasing content
• How podcasts allow dynamic ads, which are pure magic (Captivate makes it easy!) and help build your email list
• How the podcasting format allows pre-roll, mid-roll, and end-roll ads to market your courses/resources consistently
• How the “flywheel effect” serves to compound your efforts over time if you leverage your existing course students on your podcast

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Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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In today's encore, we will cover two questions that confront me daily:

How big do I actually want to grow STC?

What is the purpose of STC in relation to my overall life?

Freedom is my most important value, and building my business around my life, family, and health is most important to me. Not every entrepreneur has the same goals, but these are questions for every entrepreneur to consider. Let’s take a closer look in today’s session!

You’ll Learn:

• How I was compromising to fit life around my business instead of optimizing the business to fit the life I wanted
• 5 key concepts I learned from Paul Jarvis in his book
• Companies of one reject limitless growth.
• We should set firm growth limits to keep opportunity costs small.
• Companies of one are okay with limited success.
• More profits mean more productivity, sales, customers, and infrastructure to manage.
• Develop your business out of a side gig.
• Your business needs time to incubate and grow so you can devote yourself to it full time.
• Target a specific audience to find your niche.
• The more specific your target is, the easier it is to connect, build trust, and distinguish your audience’s needs.
• Embrace the power of simplicity and personality.
• Amplify your uniqueness by sharing your most powerful asset: yourself and your personality.

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Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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Are you a course creator who wants to get better and better at your craft? Today's encore reflects on three non-negotiable meetings that I’ve implemented with my online courses.

This simple technique has played a massive role in making over $300K more than the original course. Join me!

You’ll Learn:

Three meetings course creators need:

• After-action review (AARS)--takes place after a launch.
• Ask and answer three questions: What went well? What did not go well? What was missing?
• This simple step has a massive impact on course growth and future scaling.
• Live chat–is a way to “put yourself out there”
• I recommend a quarterly live chat with existing students, whether one-on-one or in a group.
• This feedback gives you an idea of what’s working/what’s not and allows you to come up with better offers in the future.
• Learning time–is a way to be a student for life.
• Block off time weekly to get better at your course topic and related topics by learning more
• “Being a lifelong student of your course topic opens up a lifetime of opportunities.”

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Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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If you are considering launching an online course, today’s encore is for you!

I’ve learned a lot as a course creator, and I’m sharing an honest look at my biggest lessons learned and what I would tell anyone on this course creation path.

You’ll Learn:

• 5 things I want to share about launching an online course:
• Focus on what you already know and love to teach. (Stay within your niche!)
• Hear my thoughts on course creation and AI.
• Start small and build slowly. (Think about your “value ladder.”)
• Think about recurring offers related to your course.
• Validation is non-negotiable. (Validate your course idea before you proceed.)
• Download the free Course Creator Starter Kit.
• Embrace the tech, but don’t let it overwhelm you.
• Start with “good enough,” and upgrade your sound, lighting, and camera when you can.
• Hear my recommendations for basic tech for someone just starting out in course creation.
• Take a “defaulting to action” perspective rather than waiting for perfectionism.
• Build your audience early.
• Don’t wait until your course launch to build your email list.
• Use social media and discovery platforms.

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Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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Today’s encore is about leaving psychotherapy for coaching. This transition is one that many therapist colleagues have made, and the reality is that many more are shifting from the field of therapy into coaching.

Several major factors play into this decision, and my guest today gives a transparent look at his experience in this transition. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Corey Wilks

Dr. Corey Wilks is a good friend and licensed psychologist who joins us for an open and honest look at his transition from therapy to coaching. In giving a glimpse into the circumstances and perspectives that led him to make this decision and shift his career, he shares how his career goals have changed over the years, what autonomy means to him, and why it is important. We wrap up by discussing mistakes that therapists often make in this career change and the drawbacks to leaving a traditional career in mental health.

Corey's Website

You’ll Learn:

• Corey’s career goals back in grad school—and how they have changed
• Understanding autonomy, freedom, and why these are Corey’s top priorities
• Corey’s realizations about therapy, wellness, and burnout
• Considerations in making the shift to entrepreneurship
• The biggest mistake people make in turning from therapy to coaching
• The difference in coaching as a much more solo-based endeavor than therapy
• Corey’s advice to a therapist considering becoming a coach
• The distinction between the roles of therapist and coach—and how Corey navigates “the line”

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Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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Today’s encore is at the heart of the Quiet Builder philosophy. The question is, “How do we design a business that supports our lives, not swallows it?”

This becomes increasingly important as the world grows more uncertain and our responsibilities grow daily. This episode is for anyone building a business that fits into real life, and not the other way around.

You’ll Learn:

• My story of stepping back and reassessing my business
• 3 anchors for building a life-first business in an uncertain world:
• Design for margin, not maximum.
• Clarity comes from creating margin, not hustling.
• Designing for margin is how we stay well enough to serve others.
• Build products that don’t require your constant presence.
• Design for asymmetry, where value isn’t tied to one-to-one time.
• A life-first business scales impact, not just hours.
• Plan around what you can’t plan for.
• Your business should be designed to absorb disruption, not collapse under it.
• Strategies that work for me are “Walden months,” a hard growth ceiling on STC, and allowing maximum flexibility to travel when loved ones need extra help.
• To sum up today’s topic: “A resilient business doesn’t break when life happens; it bends with grace.”

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

Our next Accelerator, Building Authoritative Guides That Stand Out In The Age of AI, begins soon.

Learn more here: https://melvinvarghese.kartra.com/page/july2026

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Today’s encore is on what therapists often get wrong about selling their first online course, considering all the assumptions we make and the misconceptions we hold about online courses.

I’m bringing full transparency to today’s topic as I share what I’ve learned through my years of experience with online courses.

You’ll Learn:

• The guilt loop running in my head (“I became a therapist to help people, not to sell things.”)
• Mindset shift that made it all make sense to me
• Ethical selling: a path to transformation with deep care and clarity
• 3 sales mistakes therapists make—and what to do instead:
• Thinking “sales equals sleazing”
• Think of aligned sales as clear communication with a gentle and generous invitation.
• Avoiding the “ask” entirely
• If someone is clearly interested, don’t make them guess how to work with you. Give them a clear call-to-action.
• Not believing in the value of your course
• Your confidence comes from alignment. Focus on the transformation you can offer.

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

Our next Accelerator, Building Authoritative Guides That Stand Out In The Age of AI, begins soon.

Learn more here: https://melvinvarghese.kartra.com/page/july2026

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Today’s encore is from a live coaching call talking about the many nuances of online courses. I hope this episode will be helpful to you and bring new ideas if an online course is on your radar.

Our Featured Guest-Kristen Boice, LMFT

Kristen Boice is a therapist in private practice and a fellow podcaster. She has realized the need among her listeners for an online course. Her podcast, Close the Chapter, is about closing the chapter on certain things in our lives so we can open ourselves up to new opportunities. In today’s coaching call, I’ll share some lessons I’ve learned along the way about online courses. We’ll talk about the rationale behind creating a live course vs. a pre-recorded one. We will wrap up with a pre-launch strategy to help get buyers for your course before you launch.

Pathways To Healing Counseling

Kristen Boice

You’ll Learn

● Why Kristen started her podcast about two years ago to provide another opportunity for deeper work for her clients

● How an online course can help you get more information out to curious people

● The options for your course and other services

● Why niching down is a big challenge for therapists

● How Kristen sees the epidemic of people feeling “not good enough” and being scared to speak up

● How a niche can help you offer value and find your sweet spot

● How the best courses take people from one place to another

● Why Kristen focuses on helping with the hard conversations

● How to use phraseology that appeals to people and addresses their need

● Step-by-step actions to build your email list and create effective opt-ins

● How to create value on the front end of your course by validating your content

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

Our next Accelerator, Building Authoritative Guides That Stand Out In The Age of AI, begins soon.

Learn more here: https://melvinvarghese.kartra.com/page/july2026

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In today's encore, we're tapping into creative thinking. How are you at thinking outside the box?

This episode is perfect for everyone who has thought about creating, marketing, and selling a product. What is the process like? How do you take care of all the little details? What about the marketing piece of your product? We’re diving deep into these questions and more on today’s show.

My guest is Rosanne Marmor, LCSW, in Portland, Oregon. She created a Feelings Wheel as a way for clients to identify their feelings both inside and outside the therapy room. Rosanne went on a journey that took almost two years of gathering data, development, and production. She was finally able to put this tool in the hands of her clients and has been overwhelmed by its success.

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Today's encore is on the 400th episode of Selling the Couch!

It was truly surreal to think back to 2015 and the show’s humble beginnings; reaching this milestone is beyond anything I ever dreamed of 10 years ago. I wanted to use this milestone to reflect on a few meaningful thoughts about staying the course to reap the quiet rewards.

What does it mean to choose depth over scale and to build intentionally and slowly when the world often tells us to go fast? The truth in this concept of depth over scale is the most impactful lesson I’ve learned on this journey.

In this episode, I’m focusing on 3 reflections that I hope encourage you, especially if you are in a season of slow growth.

You’ll Learn:

• My experience: Feeling behind when everyone else seemed to be scaling faster: “Am I doing this wrong?”
• What clicked for me: “Speed makes noise, but depth builds roots.”
• 3 Quiet-Builder truths for longevity and depth:
• Slow growth is often the healthiest growth.
• We often think reputation comes from a single moment, but it comes from quiet consistency.
• Depth protects your nervous system. (“There is a cost for going fast. Depth is kinder.”)
• A business should give you life—not drain you.
• Want to know more about being a Quiet Builder? Check out The Quiet Builder Newsletter to get more of my reflective thoughts.

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Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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Are therapists focusing on the wrong kind of content in the age of AI?

In this episode, Mel explores one of the biggest shifts happening online right now: why Google and AI-powered search are quietly rewarding depth-first, human-centered, experience-based content, while most social media content disappears within 24–48 hours.

If you’re a therapist building:

• a private practice,
• a podcast,
• a course,
• a coaching business,
• or a thought leadership platform…

this conversation may completely change how you think about content creation moving forward.

In this episode, we discuss: Why social media content is a perishable asset * What Google’s new EEAT framework means for therapists * Why AI-generated “generic content” is getting buried * How clinicians have a unique advantage in AI search * The difference between a blog post and an authoritative guide * Why long-form, depth-filled content is quietly winning * How therapists can create evergreen content that compounds over time * What AI should actually* be used for in content creation * Why specificity and lived experience matter more than ever * How one well-built guide can become a podcast, YouTube video, workshop, and newsletter * Why therapists should stop waiting to feel like “experts” before publishing

“The guide you don’t write can’t help anyone. The one you do, it works while you sleep.”

The internet is changing.And for the first time in a long time, it may actually be shifting in therapists’ favor.

Because what Google increasingly rewards now is depth, specificity, real-world expertise, and trustworthy human insight.

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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What happens to your private practice if you suddenly become incapacitated… or pass away?

It’s a difficult question, and one most therapists never want to think about.

But in this deeply practical and important conversation, Mel sits down with Dr. Robin Miller to discuss one of the most overlooked responsibilities in private practice: creating a professional will.

Dr. Miller shares the personal story that led her to found TheraClosure after unexpectedly losing a close colleague and stepping in to manage the aftermath of her private practice, client care, records, and continuity planning.

This conversation is thoughtful, grounded, and incredibly relevant for every clinician in private practice.

In this episode, we discuss:* What a professional will actually is * Why every therapist in private practice should have one * What happens to client care and medical records if a clinician dies unexpectedly * The emotional and ethical impact on clients after sudden therapist loss * How professional wills differ for solo practitioners vs. group practices * Common mistakes therapists make when planning for continuity of care * Why “I’ll deal with this later” can create major problems for loved ones and clients * How retirement, incapacitation, and practice sales impact continuity planning * What therapists should think about regarding passwords, EHR access, payroll, and two-factor authentication * Why professional wills are about protecting clients — not just protecting businesses

A powerful idea from this conversation:

“We can’t prevent loss.

But we can prevent traumatic loss.”

Very few conversations ask: What happens if something happens to you?

This episode is an invitation to think proactively, ethically, and compassionately about continuity of care — for your clients, your loved ones, and your profession.

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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In this deeply personal episode, Mel shares an honest update on a new chapter he’s building: one that sits at the intersection of psychology, nervous system regulation, golf, performance under pressure, and the future of clinical work in the age of AI.

This is not a polished “success story.” It’s a real-time reflection on what AI is changing in mental health, why traditional private practice models no longer fit for some clinicians, and how to build work that feels deeply aligned with your life instead of consuming it.

In this episode, Mel shares: The childhood basketball story that shaped his understanding of pressure and performance * Why the same person can succeed under pressure one year and crumble the next * How AI is transforming therapy, healthcare, and human work * Why the future belongs to the irreplaceable parts of human connection * The difference between burnout from the work vs. burnout from the model * Why he chose not to return to traditional private practice * The vision behind a new golf-focused performance psychology retreat * How golf became a “laboratory” for understanding nervous system regulation under stress * Why experiences and human presence may become the most valuable forms of care in the AI era * The concept of building the one model only you could build*

Questions to reflect on:* What population have you spent the most time with, and what do they truly need that nobody is delivering? * What life experiences or non-clinical skills could become part of the intervention itself? * What would you build if you weren’t trying to make it look like what a therapist is “supposed” to offer?

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

View Details

Do therapist websites still matter in the age of AI?

With platforms like ChatGPT, Claude, Google AI Search, social media, and online directories changing how people search for support, many therapists are wondering:

Is it even worth investing in a website anymore?

In this episode, Mel sits down with Sarah Gershon of Strong Roots Web Design to explore why therapist websites may actually matter more than ever, especially in a world where AI is becoming the intermediary between clinicians and potential clients.

Together, they unpack how websites shape a client’s first impression, why authenticity matters more than “marketing,” and how therapists can create websites that feel safe, human, and deeply aligned with their values.

We cover:

• What potential clients are really looking for in the first few seconds on a therapist website * Why websites still matter in the AI era

• The difference between “rented” platforms (social media) vs. owned platforms (your website)

• How to write website copy that feels authentic instead of salesy

• Why therapists are uniquely positioned to create high-quality, human-centered content

• Google’s evolving EEAT standards

• A simple homepage audit exercise every therapist should do this month

Your website isn’t just a marketing tool.

It’s a place where potential clients can feel safe, understood, and begin building trust before they ever reach out.

If you want to improve your website this month: ask: Would a hurting person feel safe here?

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

View Details

Are therapists quietly leaving social media… on purpose?

In today’s episode, we explore a growing shift: not burnout, but intentional withdrawal from platforms that promise connection... but often create fragmentation.

If you’ve ever felt conflicted about social media—needing it for visibility but feeling drained by it—this conversation will hit close to home.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why social media isn’t a neutral tool, it’s a shaping force
• The “dysregulation paradox” therapists face online
• What social media actually does to your brain (especially as a clinician)
• Why intentional creators are stepping back, or redesigning their relationship with it
• How to market your work without handing over your nervous system
• A simple framework to decide if social media is still serving you

Key insights:

• We teach nervous system regulation… on platforms designed for dysregulation
• Social media often trains reactivity, comparison, and fragmented attention
• Leaving (or limiting) social media isn’t about productivity, it’s about protecting your attention
• You don’t owe any platform your presence
• The most meaningful work rarely comes from constant scrolling, it comes from depth, slowness, and focus

Because the real question isn’t just: “Should I be on social media?”

It’s: “What is this platform shaping me into?”

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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What does it actually look like to market your work… without losing your humanity?

In today’s episode of Selling the Couch, I’m joined by Shayna Vance Roman to explore a powerful and often overlooked idea: human-centric marketing—and how to apply it in a way that feels grounded, ethical, and aligned.

If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable with marketing… overwhelmed by social media… or unsure how to grow your practice without becoming someone you’re not, this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we explore:

• What human-centric marketing really means (and why it matters more than ever)
• Why marketing can start to feel “transactional” instead of relational
• The tension between running a business and staying values-driven
• The rise of therapist influencers, audience growth, and revenue pressure
• How to create content that feels authentic, not performative
• Practical ways to build connection, compassion, and trust online
• The role of AI in marketing and how to use it without losing your voice
• Why “less but better” content may be the future

A few key takeaways:

• People aren’t just “clients” or “data points”, they’re humans navigating real struggles
• Your website, social media, and content should meet people where they are
• You don’t need to post constantly (consistency ≠ overproduction)
• The goal of marketing isn’t just visibility, it’s trust and connection

At the end of the day… Marketing isn’t about getting more people in the door.

It’s about helping the right people feel seen, safe, and supported, before they ever reach out.

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RESOURCES

Connect with Shayna:

🌐 https://shaynavanceetc.com

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Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

View Details

Is AI actually giving us more freedom… or just more to do?

In this episode, I reflect on something I’ve been noticing lately, both in my own life and in conversations with other business owners:

Even though AI makes it easier to write, create, and move faster… many of us aren’t using that time to slow down.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why AI doesn’t actually create freedom (and what it creates instead)
• The subtle trap of turning efficiency into more work
• How “doing more” quietly pulls us away from the life we wanted to build
• The difference between efficiency vs. alignment
• Why protecting empty space is more important than ever
• How to define “enough” in a world where there’s always more you could do

Grounding reminders shared in this episode:

1. Efficiency is not alignment
2. Just because you can do more doesn’t mean you should.
3. Empty space is not a problem
4. That quiet time? That slower pace? That’s the whole point.
5. If you don’t define “enough,” it disappears
6. Without friction, there’s always one more thing to do.

The goal was never to do more. It's to build a life that feels like your own.

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

View Details

If you’ve been told to “just start a blog” to grow your private practice and be seen online, but you’re now wondering if AI has made that advice outdated... this episode is for you.

In this conversation, I sit down with Daniel Fava from Private Practice Elevation to explore what’s actually changed with blogging, SEO, and content creation, and what still works today.

In this episode, we cover:

• Why blogging has traditionally been such a powerful strategy for therapists
• The biggest shifts in SEO and content creation since the rise of AI
• What Google’s E-E-A-T framework really means, and why it favors therapists
• How to make your content stand out in an AI-saturated world
• The role of social signals in building authority
• A smarter way to approach blogging
• Where to start if you haven’t blogged in months (or ever)

Blogging isn’t dead, but generic blogging is. In an AI-driven world, storytelling is your unfair advantage.

Because blogging isn’t about writing on a weekly schedule. It’s about creating content that actually connects, builds trust, and compounds over time.

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Connect with Daniel & Private Practice Elevation:

Website: https://privatepracticeelevation.com

Free Clarity Call: https://privatepracticeelevation.com/kickoff

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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After 11 years, 400+ episodes, and nearly 2 million downloads, I thought I understood what drives podcast growth.

Then I saw the data, and it challenged a lot of assumptions.

In this episode, I break down what actually drives podcast downloads today, based on real-world insights and my own experience growing Selling the Couch into a top 0.5% podcast.

Because here’s the truth:

• Audience size doesn’t guarantee downloads
• Big-name guests aren’t the growth lever you think they are
• And visibility alone isn’t what moves the needle

In this episode, we cover:

• Why audience size ≠ downloads (and what matters more)
• The real difference between a “vitamin” vs. “painkiller” episode
• Why titles matter more than your guest list
• How to write titles that get 2–3x more downloads
• The ideal episode length
• How to think about podcast guesting strategically (not randomly)
• The strategy that beats social media for growth
• Your best discovery tool
• The biggest shift in downloads

Plus, we'll go over a simple experiment to try to see what your audience actually responds to, and how to double down on it.

If your podcast isn’t growing the way you expected, it may not be your consistency. It may be your alignment—between your title, your topic, and the real problems your listeners are trying to solve.

If you found this helpful, consider sharing it with a friend or colleague who is building (or thinking about starting) a podcast.

And don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on podcasting, online business, and building something that compounds quietly over time.

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RESOURCES

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Ready to launch (or grow) your online course?

Haven is our membership for therapists who want to turn their expertise into sustainable online income through courses, content, and simple systems that actually work.

You’ll get access to trainings, live accelerators, and a community that supports you every step of the way.

Get on the waitlist: sellingthecouch.com/haven

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Today’s encore is covering creating and selling an E-Course. Since creating Healthcasters, I’ve definitely made many mistakes that I’m happy to share with you.

Statistics show that the self-improvement industry is a $10-11 billion industry, so we know that there are a lot people who crave knowledge and want to learn.

Join me for more!

--

Want to launch your online course?

Our new membership is open for enrollment! Find out more and join Haven here

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If there is one thing I’ve learned as a small business owner, it’s that it takes courage to show up imperfect. We want so badly to be perfect and put together in front of our audience, but perfectionism makes us less authentic and connected. Join us to learn more about being OK with being imperfect.

Samara Stone is a return guest to the podcast, and I’m thrilled to welcome her back! In addition to her work as a therapist, Samara is a branding expert who has a curated community, Be Full Grown, for black women over 40 who are ready to imagine, create, and live a life of their own design. Samara is in the process of launching a podcast, and she has already proven her courage in showing up imperfect through some major life difficulties. We will discuss how we, as clinicians, can show up imperfect when perfectionism always has a pull on us. Samara also shares helpful guidelines for sharing appropriately on social media, which is something we all need to keep in mind.

Be Full Grown

You’ll Learn:

1. How things have changed in our field in beautiful ways; “Your Saturday self CAN show up on Monday morning.”
2. Why many therapists struggle with perfectionism and are afraid to show up as 100% human
3. Why clients appreciate transparency because it conveys a non-judgmental attitude
4. Why there is a huge shift happening in how we understand marketing and our personal brand
5. How therapists need to share enough about the real dynamic of themselves so clients can see the healing possibilities
6. How Samara decided to share on social media the experience of her divorce a few years ago
7. Why we have to be polarizing at times in order to find our true audience–and that’s OK
8. The importance of realizing that you can’t and won’t appeal to everyone
9. How to use your clear purpose and intention to determine how much of your life to share on social media

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Want to launch your online course?

Our new membership is open for enrollment! Find out more and join Haven here.

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We use video for meetings, live sessions, live-streaming, and other content, so it’s important to have the best quality possible.

Michael Rothermel is my videographer who filmed the welcome video for STC. We were part of the same faith community while Michael lived in the Philly area.

Join us to learn his top tips to improve the quality of live videos.

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Want to launch your online course or YouTube channel?

Save your spot for our free live webinar:The Calm YouTube Flywheel here!

Or check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

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Since the beginning of this podcast in 2015, I’ve thought a lot about how I can use YouTube to maximize the impact of STC. I’ve pondered many questions about the sustainability of this endeavor and whether I should be creating separate content on YouTube or simply repurposing these podcast episodes on YouTube.

As a result of coaching, taking courses, and obsessively (nerdily) studying YouTube, I have decided to finally leap into YouTube in 2024. In today’s session, I’ll share what went into this decision for me and what you should consider as a current or aspiring therapist podcaster.

You’ll Learn:

1. How our fears are usually rooted in some sort of trauma or feeling unseen or unheard
2. Top considerations for me in starting out on YouTube:
3. YouTube is intentionally appealing to podcasters and is becoming an ever more popular podcast platform.
4. Putting a video editing team in place makes the jump to YouTube much easier.
5. YouTube (owned by Google) is very beneficial for discoverability and SEO.
6. I plan to use the best of both playlists (podcasts, YouTube) and feed platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn).
7. I plan to use “Walden months” to prioritize self-care and big projects. (My inspiration is the commitment to be a fully present family man and what I learned from Tim Ferris’ 2020 blog, 11 Reasons Not To Become Famous.)
8. How I plan to keep you updated and document my YouTube journey in the weekly STC Newsletter
9. Why I’m grateful for the support of STC listeners on this new path that has me feeling vulnerable, nervous, and fearful

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Want to launch your online course or YouTube channel?

Save your spot for our free live webinar:The Calm YouTube Flywheel here!

Or check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

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“If you build a great course, they’ll come.”

I wish that were true.

Over the past decade, both as a course creator (since 2015) and as a teacher helping therapists launch their own courses, I’ve seen something surprising:

Great content alone is rarely enough.

In this episode, we talk about why most online courses fail, even when the material inside is research-backed, thoughtful, and genuinely helpful.

Because the truth is:

Content is only one part of the equation.

Completion, clarity, and connection build a real course business.

Inside this video, I break down:

1. Why the most important video in your course isn’t what you think
2. The 80/20 mistake most course creators make
3. Why your course is competing with everything (not just other courses)
4. The hidden anxiety that leads to overstuffed, overwhelming modules
5. How to simplify your curriculum without losing depth
6. A practical way to map and refine your modules (using tools like Miro)
7. How gentle gamification (completion badges, progress nudges) increases completion rates
8. Why the clearest courses—not the deepest ones—tend to win

If you’re a therapist or clinician thinking about creating an online course (or wondering why yours isn’t gaining traction), this episode will help you shift your focus from perfection → to promotion → to sustainable momentum.

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Resources:

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Want to launch your online course?

Save your spot for our free live webinar:The Calm YouTube Flywheel here!

Or check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

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Most conversations about private practice are highlight reels.

But what about the parts no one posts about?

In today’s episode of Selling the Couch, I’m joined by my friend Dr. Justin Dodson, a group practice owner in Memphis, Tennessee, for an honest, real-world conversation about what it actually takes to run (and sustain) a small business as a therapist.

Justin is heading into year 6 of private practice, and I’m in year 11 with STC—so we wanted to pull back the curtain on the things therapists often learn the hard way: pricing, confidence, leadership, loneliness, burnout, and what success really looks like after the early hustle phase.

In this conversation, we cover:

1. Why most therapists start with zero business training (and what to do anyway)
2. The “version 1 vs version 10” trap therapists fall into
3. How Justin set his first fee (and why he’ll never haggle again)
4. A realistic approach to raising rates without spiraling
5. Why “don’t base your business on someone else’s secret” matters more than ever
6. The hidden loneliness of entrepreneurship (no-shows, cancellations, declined cards, overhead)
7. How becoming a business owner changes you—emotionally, mentally, and relationally
8. Managing burnout + anxiety while still showing up for clients
9. The leadership challenges that come with scaling and relinquishing control
10. How to build trust in yourself by keeping your word to yourself

If you’re in private practice, thinking about starting one, or navigating the messy middle of business ownership... this episode will feel like a deep exhale.

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Resources:

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

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Most podcasts never make a dollar.

Not because the host isn’t talented.

Not because their strategy is bad.

But because they quit too soon, or they measure ROI the wrong way.

In this episode, I break down what 11 years of podcasting (and nearly 2 million downloads) have taught me about building a podcast that actually pays off.

The 3 Forms of Podcast ROI1️⃣ Trust – Deep relational credibility that compounds quietly over time

2️⃣ Longevity – Most quit early; sustainable rhythm wins

3️⃣ Assets – Turn episodes into evergreen SEO infrastructure

Podcasting is not about going viral.

It’s about building something that compounds.

If you’re a therapist building a podcast (or considering it), this episode will help you think beyond downloads, and design something sustainable, profitable, and aligned.

Resources:

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

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In this deeply honest and practical conversation, I’m joined by fellow clinician and creative coach TJ Walsh as we explore what it means to evolve your brand in real time — especially when your identity as a therapist is shifting.

TJ introduces a simple but powerful framework:

Push. Pull. Propel.

It’s a guide for navigating professional discomfort, emerging desires, and the momentum that comes from integrating both.

We talk about:

• Why branding is worked out in real time

• Letting go of perfectionism and overthinking

• The emotional cost of being “the product” in therapy work

• How to know when it’s time to pivot

• Building Quiet Builder and navigating multiple identities

• Intuitive practices for clarity and alignment

• Why slow growth is often the greatest gift

If you're in a season of change — whether it's launching a new offer, exploring a new part of yourself, or simply wondering “what’s next?” — this one is for you.

Resources:

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

--

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

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In today’s episode, I’m diving into a topic many therapists and thoughtful professionals wrestle with: the pressure to be seen on social media, and what it means to opt out.

Over the past decade of building Selling the Couch, I’ve had a front-row seat to both the power and the cost of online visibility. And lately, I’ve been asking myself: What does success look like without the performance? What if we chose privacy over performance, resonance over reach?

In this episode, I share 3 core insights I’ve learned from personal experience and from conversations with fellow clinicians:

🧠 The illusion that fame heals insecurity

📉 The emotional weight of influence

🕵️ Privacy as the hidden cost of visibility

I also reflect on how slow growth gave me space to emotionally regulate, why I’m focusing more on deeper offline conversations (including my golf journey 👀), and how I’ve come to define enough in business and life.

Whether you're feeling burned out from social media, questioning your relationship to personal branding, or just wondering if there's a quieter way to grow, I hope this episode offers encouragement and clarity.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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AI can be an incredible tool to save time, boost creativity, and streamline your content, but how do you use it without losing your authentic voice?

In this episode, I’m joined by Dan Cumberland, founder of Dan Cumberland Labs, to explore how therapists, coaches, and small business owners can use AI tools like ChatGPT or Claude without sounding robotic or generic.

We cover:

• Common therapist concerns about using AI

• How to treat AI as a collaborator (not a replacement)

• The POWER Framework: How to get better AI output

• Building a brand voice guide

• How AI frees up time for life, family, and creative work

• Using AI to repurpose podcast & YouTube content

• Dan’s tips for delegating content without losing your voice

This episode is packed with practical tips if you're looking to scale your message, free up your schedule, and still sound like you.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site! Find out more and get on the Haven Waitlist here.

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Whether you're in grad school for psychology, counseling, social work—or mentoring someone who is—this episode is for you.

After 20+ years in the mental health field and over a decade running Selling the Couch, I'm sharing 5 things I wish I had done during grad school to set up a more sustainable, meaningful, and flexible career.

I also share one bonus tip that’s been the most important for long-term success (especially if you want to avoid burnout and build a career that supports your life, not consumes it).

This episode covers:

1: Don’t Just Learn—Build Something

2: Say Yes to What Scares You

3: Learn the Language of Business

4: Build Relationships, Not Just a Resume

5: Don’t Burn Bridges (Ever)

And tune in to get the BONUS tip!

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site that just opened! Find out more and join us in Haven here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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What is emotional fitness, and why is it more important than ever for therapists, helpers, and quiet leaders?

In this episode of Selling the Couch, I’m joined by psychologist and author Dr. Emily Anhalt to explore how we can strengthen our emotional muscles to prevent burnout, set boundaries, and lead with compassion (without losing ourselves in the process).

We break down:

The difference between emotional intelligence and emotional fitness

The 7 traits of emotionally fit people

The early warning signs of burnout—and how to prevent it

Why boundaries are the blueprint for sustainability

How playfulness improves therapy outcomes (and leadership!)

A powerful "emotional push-up" you can try today

Whether you're in private practice, leadership, or building something new, this episode will help you stay grounded and grow with intention.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site that's starting in January! Find out more and join us in Haven here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Melvin kicks off Season 11 of Selling the Couch with a powerful and timely conversation on how therapists and online educators can AI-proof their online courses in 2026 and beyond.

If you’re worried that AI tools might replace the need for your course, this episode will help you rethink that fear, and give you a framework to build something deeply human, emotionally intelligent, and resilient.

Learn the 3 keys to future-proofing your course:

Sustainable Community – Build connection that lasts beyond the launch

Blue Ocean Positioning – Create a course that stands alone in your niche

Meaningful Gamification – Design experiences that transform, not just inform

You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how Melvin made the difficult decision to retire his previous programs, and what led to the creation of Haven, a calm, supportive community for therapists moving into online income.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join us in Haven here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s show is a coaching call about online courses and the imposter syndrome that sneaks in with fear and doubt. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call:

Nikki Sewell, LCSW

Nikki was ready to get her pilot students into her course, but she has encountered a lot of fear around charging her worth for her grief course for therapists. Nikki built a successful private practice focusing on the niche of grief counseling, motivated by losing her father to suicide during her grad school years and suddenly losing her husband at age 41 back in 2013. Join the coaching call with Nikki and Melvin!

Nikki Sewell

You’ll Learn:

●How Nikki found her niche in grief counseling with widows, suicide survivors, and orphaned adults

●Why Nikki views her grief counseling work as something beautiful that empowers people to see “what’s lost, what’s left, and what’s possible”

●How Nikki decided to create her online course to help other grief and trauma therapists

●Why the best online courses combine clinical training with personal experience–like Nikki is doing

●How money blocks, shame, and internal voices get in the way to create imposter syndrome for Nikki

●The new perspective: Nikki’s course is helping clinicians to become better clinicians, help their clients more fully, and become better business owners (who make more money)

●Why we struggle with shame in charging what we are worth because we are a “helping profession”

●How Nikki can implement the same steps in charging for her online course that she employed in establishing her private practice

●How to take a “ladder view” of our expertise and experience, realizing that there are always people on lower rungs who need your help

●Why it’s better to take the tortoise approach and pace yourself in launching a course

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join us in Haven here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Many clinicians are left wondering if their best work lies in the clinical field or the coaching/consulting arena. I’ve felt this dilemma myself, pondering how to balance my interests, endeavors, and the evolution of family life. I realized that I couldn’t sustain multiple paths, and I made the hard decision to give up my clinical work.

If you are struggling along those same lines, I hope today’s show gives you insights, clarity, and encouragement. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Angela Williams, LCSW

Angela Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Orlando, Florida. She has made the transition from clinician to coach, and she now works with other therapists who are making the same change in their lives. Angela shares her thoughts about why so many clinicians are leaving for the world of coaching, along with the biggest roadblocks that may come up on this path. She gives her best tips for overcoming those big roadblocks and recommends several books as helpful resources.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• Why so many therapists are becoming coaches
• How the therapy field, with its inherent regulations, contains many barriers to providing services to clients—and coaching is different
• The biggest mental roadblock for Angela in moving from clinician to coach
• Why each clinician feels like the “insecure expert” and has to intentionally build up their confidence
• Why it’s challenging to become an online, visible brand rather than a care provider
• What holds clinicians back the most and presents the biggest roadblocks
• How a mindset coach can help us rewrite our roadblocks into our success story
• How perfectionism, fear of failure, and standards of success can prevent us from taking action
• Why money blocks and financial literacy play into our beliefs about money
• Why the fear of success can be just as crippling as the fear of failure
• Books recommended by Angela: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks, Get Rich, Lucky Bitch by Denise Duffield-Thomas, and You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join us in Haven here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s topic is a fascinating one for me. As therapists, we are wired for stories, but telling an effective story online is a struggle for many of us. Fortunately for us, my guest has wisdom and tips to share to help us become awesome storytellers. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Kieran Drew

Kieran Drew lives in Leeds, England, and is my writing coach for Twitter. In an interesting career twist, he was a dentist who left behind his stressful, work-filled life to become a copywriter/storyteller. My first connection to Kieran came through the viral story he wrote about his unique medical experiences as a teenager. He is a talented storyteller who has helped my writing immensely, and I know his insights will be helpful to anyone looking to improve their writing.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• Why Kieran made the unconventional transition from dentist to copywriter/storyteller
• An overview of Kieran’s spinal issues involving a tumor, surgeries, and titanium rods—this is the experience that helped him discover storytelling and a new love for life
• 3 tips to become a better storyteller:
• Make a story bank by writing down everything that happens to you with specific details.
• Cut through the noise to impart a lesson.
• Even in sales, start every point with a story.
• How specific details make your stories more impactful
• How to draw a “lesson” from each story
• How storytelling breaks down skepticism and improves your selling ability
• How storytelling can be your differentiator in the online world
• A storytelling template: what happened/the lesson, why people should care, and a call to action
• How Kieran reviews his story bank to choose his next story

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Join our Free 90-Minute Workshop happening on December 10th: Will AI Make My Course Irrelevant? Save your spot at sellingthecouch.com/aiwebinar

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join the interest list for Haven.

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I’ve been focused on building a life around my family and self-care rather than fitting those things around a career. I’ve learned that there is much wisdom in slowing down and not keeping up a crazy pace. One thing that has helped me accomplish these goals is creating an online course. Even though I’m super grateful and blown away by the success, I made a lot of mistakes along the way. Join me as I share my insights and lessons learned.

You’ll Learn:

• The 10 biggest mistakes I made as an online course creator:
• 1–I didn’t understand how my childhood trauma affected my course pricing.
• Check out these resources: “The Psychological Price of Entrepreneurship” (Inc Magazine), We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers, and courses by Tiffany McLain.
• 2–I gave my students lifetime access to coaching and community.
• This caused me to feel resentment for not charging more for that kind of access to me.
• 3–I focused too much on gear instead of creating a steady marketing system.
• I have learned that marketing, which is not my strength, is all about authenticity and connection.
• 4–I focused on being in the “middle of the pack” on pricing instead of in the upper tier.
• Ask yourself, “Do you want to be the Apple or the Walmart in your niche?”
• 5–I didn’t realize that I could invite students into other experiences beyond my course.
• Options include a mastermind, cohort-based course, and other recurring income buckets.
• 6–I realized that looking at my bank account doesn’t drive sales as testimonials do.
• 7–I thought I’d be stuck on one business model, so I built a “strip mall model.”
• 8–I thought having a mentor with a similar course meant that I couldn’t create one.
• When someone else has a similar course, you can niche down into a more specific message.
• 9–I was too concerned about the sale over the relationship.
• This came from a poverty mindset instead of the abundance mindset to which I aspire.
• 10–I didn’t think about the one-off sale on the front end and the recurring invitation on the back.
• A certain number of students will want a more in-depth experience with us.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Join our Free 90-Minute Workshop happening on December 10th: Will AI Make My Course Irrelevant? Save your spot at sellingthecouch.com/aiwebinar

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join the interest list for Haven.

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Our Featured Guest for today’s call: Heather McKenzie, LCMHCS

Heather McKenzie came through Online Course School as a beta student back in the fall of 2021. Online Course School is a live, eight-week experience that takes your online course from a simple idea all the way through the development stages so that you are ready to record. Heather created a course specifically focused on anxiety that can be found at Dial Down Anxiety. Like most of us who create an online course, she faced a common struggle about how to handle marketing time and costs to promote her course. Join us to hear the coaching call!

McKenzie Counseling

You’ll Learn:

• How to handle logistical challenges in the online presentation of your course
• Why Heather’s course is an eight-week course to help people understand anxiety and DBT emotion regulation skills
• How marketing options for an online course can be overwhelming for most people
• How to pinpoint your own superpowers in teaching and the style that works best for you
• How to structure the content levels for promoting your course in six-month blocks:
• Start with webinars, both free and paid.
• Offer a downloadable guide or cheat sheet.
• Use a core blog post as a stand-alone feature that blows people away.
• Tips from Melvin about content levels:
• Offering too many things can confuse people, so stick with one core webinar.
• Less is more!
• Be thoughtful about using the words “webinar” and “workshop” so as not to intimidate people.
• Link your blog post videos to YouTube to drive more traffic back to your webinar.
• Consider that high-quality offerings through webinars, guides, and blog posts help to establish your authority as an expert and give people value that keeps them returning.
• How podcasting can help with future promotion by giving a call-to-action to your webinar
• Why you need to take notes during the first offering of your course with beta students to know what content resonates the most; that content can be used for future free webinars
• In summary, five tools to market an online course that have evergreen potential:
• Webinar (start with live ones and then transition to evergreen ones)
• Downloadable guides or cheat sheets
• Core blog post
• Select podcast episodes
• Mini-podcast

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Join our Free 90-Minute Workshop happening on December 10th: Will AI Make My Course Irrelevant? Save your spot at sellingthecouch.com/aiwebinar

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join the interest list for Haven.

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Today’s episode takes a closer look at a major passion of mine: online courses. Let’s talk about the important questions to ask–and answer–before launching an online course. Join me!

You’ll Learn:

• How online courses can help fill in the gap for those who need mental health services
• 7 Questions to Ask Before Launching an Online Course:
• Have people paid me one-on-one for this course idea?
• Can I see myself being in this space for 10+ years?
• Is this course idea confronting a “massive pain” vs. an “annoying inconvenience” for my audience?
• Can this population afford the course I’m selling? Do they have purchasing power?
• Is this a population that is easy to target and find online?
• Is my course idea a growing concern/need for my audience?
• Are there others out there creating information products for this niche?

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join the interest list for Haven.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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The perfect recipe for burnout is to work in a caring profession, be a slave to perfectionism, and neglect your needs. As clinicians, we realize that we work in a flawed healthcare system in the US, but how do we exist in this environment to do good work and sustain ourselves from a holistic perspective that goes way beyond basic self-care? We are diving into this topic with today’s guest. Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Jessi Gold

Dr. Jessi Gold is the first Chief Wellness Officer for the University of Tennessee System, which comprises five campuses and more than 60,000 students. Also serving as an associate professor of psychiatry, Dr. Gold is a speaker, media advocate, author, and mental health consultant. She recently wrote How Do You Feel? One Doctor's Search for the Humanity in Medicine. In today’s session, Jessi shares her experience in teetering on the edge of burnout and what she learned about herself.

Dr. Jessi Gold

You’ll Learn:

• The basics of Dr. Jessi’s role with the University of Tennessee and what it means to be a Chief Wellness Officer
• The differences and barriers from campus to campus in a university system
• “Silo-breaking” as it relates to mental health
• The difficulty in caring for ourselves while caring for others
• Perfectionism, burnout, and why “it’s OK not to be OK”
• The pandemic’s part in training us to wear a “badge of honor” for not caring for ourselves and our mental health
• We are human—and we forget that very often.
• The event that was the impetus for Dr. Jessi’s book—and why it left her feeling horrible
• Signs of early burnout that Dr. Jessi only noticed in hindsight
• Making the shift to navigate perfectionist tendencies to prevent burnout
• The importance of having self-compassion and reframing the mean things we say to ourselves
• The value of timeout for ME

Resources:

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join the interest list for Haven.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Here we are at the last episode of 2025, our 10th year of the podcast. For the last episode of the year, I usually try to focus on reflections about lessons learned, tough decisions, and pivots that are happening. My intent today is to be transparent and share in a “fireside chat” format. Take a pause with me, sit back, and think about your business as we approach the end of 2025.

You’ll Learn:

• The underlying question to ask: “How do I build something that lasts without losing myself in the process?”
• Announcement about closing STC Elite, our mastermind that has lasted for 4 years
• Closing the mastermind, all related to my stress level, focus, and mental clarity
• “Sometimes, the highest ROI decision we can make in our businesses is subtraction.”
• Feedback about concerns over the $9K investment
• Highlights of a new membership site, Haven, launching in January 2026 (A much more affordable option!) Find out more and join the interest list.
• The Quiet Builder Newsletter: How this movement resonates with so many people
• What’s coming up for me in the form of courses, books, and new platforms to create space for my clinical skills
• My tip: Create your first course to support your enduring identity.
• Factors in life that go beyond business
• Choosing clarity over complexity
• Legacy, stewardship, and charitable giving
• My passion to help those who’ve been rescued from sex trades
• Thank you for your support over these past 10 years!

Resources:

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist looking to transition from clinical to online course income, we have a specialized mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Check out our new membership site that’s launching in January! Find out more and join the interest list for Haven.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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What does it mean to have an “anti-racist practice”? With all the changes taking place regarding DEI and the current US political climate, this is a challenging endeavor for clinicians. Join us for a closer look at this important topic in today’s session.

Our Featured Guest

Kenya Crawford

Kenya Crawford is a licensed therapist and trained facilitator who works with individuals, companies, and therapists to create healing spaces for our collective liberation. In today’s conversation, Kenya provides a behind-the-scenes look at the current state of DEI programs and discusses how to balance DEI and anti-racist work with running a sustainable business. This is a practical conversation around building and designing practices and businesses with strategic intentionality.

Kenya's Website

Cultivated Healers Community

You’ll Learn:

• The current state of DEI work: It’s not dead, but it has shifted.
• Our companies reflect our communities.
• Kenya’s focus from 2020-2025, aiming for overall sustainability in her practice
• Kenya’s personal example of navigating life with an “All money is not good money” philosophy
• “Is it really worth it to do work that doesn’t align with my values?”
• Considerations in a fee structure that make therapy more accessible
• Actions to cultivate space, community, and gratitude
• First steps in starting an anti-racist practice
• An anti-racist practice is intentional in every touch point in your business.
• Finding your community (and accountability partners) with a shared vision
• Balancing anti-racist work with running a sustainable business
• Challenges in the differing language used to describe “psychological safety”
• Kenya’s perspectives on the removal of DEI language from websites, publications, etc.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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This session is the second part of a series called “Podcasting for Therapists.” You can check out the first part of the series on launching your podcast with this link. Today’s focus is on what happens after you launch your podcast. More specifically, how do you strategically and thoughtfully turn your podcast into a platform that leads to more income, impact, and invitations to do the work that lights you up? This is an aspect of podcasting that is often overlooked. You start a podcast to serve others, but it gradually becomes a bridge to other opportunities, like online courses, book deals, speaking gigs, retreats, and relationships you could have never imagined. If you’ve ever wondered if you can really build a business through a podcast, this episode is your roadmap!

You’ll Learn:

• There was no grand vision or monetization plan when I began back in 2015.
• The #1 recurring question I’m asked: “How did you launch a podcast?”
• My journey into online courses—how it began and grew (To date, that first course has generated over $340,000 in revenue!)
• The STC podcast, which started with just the basics in my home office, was the foundation to show people they could trust me.
• My view of a podcast as a “channel of authenticity,” when it’s built with care and intention
• 3 anchors for turning your podcast into a platform:
• Listen closely to what your audience asks for.
• Create soft invitations, not hard pitches.
• Build systems behind the scenes.
• My approach to calls-to-action at the end of each podcast episode (invitation-based, not pressure-based)
• Want to know more about starting YOUR podcast? Check out our FREE Podcasting Workshop.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s session is about shutting down your private practice, which is an inevitable step in the journey for many therapists. The two main options are to sell their private practice or shut it down, which can be the best choice for a therapist who wants to pursue other avenues and achieve more freedom in their life. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Jen Blanchette

Dr. Jen Blanchette is a licensed psychologist, podcaster, speaker, career coach, and business consultant. Her passion is helping therapists and other caring professionals say goodbye to burnout culture and find the support they need. In the early years of the pandemic, Dr. Jen made the decision to close the private practice she had worked hard to build; a combination of burnout and the realization that she wanted to focus on other things fueled her decision. In today’s conversation, we cover the real, emotional side of shutting down a private practice, which includes terminating relationships with clients and handling logistical challenges. Guilt and shame accompany this difficult decision, and Dr. Jen shares what she wishes she had known back then. She gives her insight into other details of the closing process, along with an optimal timeline for closing.

Website: drjenblanchette.com

You’ll Learn:

• Considering what comes “on the other side”---finding freedom and clarity
• Tips for planning to shut down
• How to communicate with clients about closing
• The grief element for you AND your clients requires time to heal
• Dr. Jen’s hindsight into what she wishes she had done in the process of shutting down her private practice
• Ethical questions about the termination of treatment
• Top 3 logistical tasks in shutting down your private practice:
• Contacting your liability insurance carrier
• Handling records appropriately
• Contacting your state board
• Considerations for choosing an appropriate attorney
• Most common mistakes therapists make: not having the support they need and trying to handle it all solo
• Dr. Jen’s advice: What she wishes every therapist knew about closing down a private practice
• Visit Dr. Jen’s website, drjenblanchette.com, for information about the Ethical Practice Closure Course, her free Quick Start Guide, and The Therapist Burnout Podcast.

Resources:

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist looking to transition from clinical to online course income, we have a specialized mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s session is all about designing a therapist-friendly course that actually gets finished. This is the third in our series, The Therapist’s Path to a Successful Online Course. A lesser-known fact about online courses is that they have a notoriously low completion rate. The real challenge for course creators is to include content that is engaging yet concise, so that people stay engaged until completion. Since we've invested time and effort in creating a transformational online course experience, we want people to complete the entire course.

You’ll Learn:

• Course building strategies that don’t overload your students
• Building a course for them, not me
• In course creation, look for the most straightforward path from A to B.
• “A finished course is more powerful than a perfect one.”
• 3 anchors for course design to improve completion rates:
• Design for real-life energy, not ideal circumstances.
• Layer-in accountability and gentle community to serve “one to many” over 1:1.
• Keep the path simple and straightforward. Don’t overwhelm people with too many options or resources.
• “Clarity builds momentum; confusion kills it.”
• Check out our free email course, The Course Creator Starter Kit.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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This is the 400th episode of Selling the Couch! It is truly surreal to think back to 2015 and the show’s humble beginnings; reaching this milestone is beyond anything I ever dreamed of 10 years ago. I want to use this milestone to reflect on a few meaningful thoughts about staying the course to reap the quiet rewards. What does it mean to choose depth over scale and to build intentionally and slowly when the world often tells us to go fast? The truth in this concept of depth over scale is the most impactful lesson I’ve learned on this journey. In this episode, I’m focusing on 3 reflections that I hope encourage you, especially if you are in a season of slow growth.

You’ll Learn:

• My experience: Feeling behind when everyone else seemed to be scaling faster: “Am I doing this wrong?”
• What clicked for me: “Speed makes noise, but depth builds roots.”
• 3 Quiet-Builder truths for longevity and depth:
• Slow growth is often the healthiest growth.
• We often think reputation comes from a single moment, but it comes from quiet consistency.
• Depth protects your nervous system. (“There is a cost for going fast. Depth is kinder.”)
• A business should give you life—not drain you.
• Want to know more about being a Quiet Builder? Check out The Quiet Builder Newsletter to get more of my reflective thoughts.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s topic strikes fear into the hearts of many clinicians. We are talking about branding, not in the sales-y way that feels icky, but with authenticity, heart, and grace. Whether intentional or not, you have a brand; why not make it one to be proud of? Want to be an influential thought leader? Your personal brand should reflect your heart and core values. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Adrienne Wilkerson

Adrienne Wilkerson is a personal friend and the CEO of Beacon Media + Marketing, a marketing agency that works closely with practices and clinicians in the mental health field. Our conversation begins with the starting point in thinking of yourself as a “brand,” clarifying and communicating who you are and what you stand for, and how clinicians can become thought leaders. Adrienne shares insights about branding principles to follow in building a platform and sharing a message that feels true and genuine. We conclude with a look at how to stay authentic in branding and content in today’s AI-dominated world.

Beacon Media + Marketing

You’ll Learn:

• To think of yourself as a brand, start by telling your story!
• Clarifying and communicating who you are without being sales-y and fake
• The intersection of social media content, branding, and authentic connection
• Authentic vs. fake (“Perfect comes across as fake.”)
• Heart and intention connect people through the know, like, and trust factor (Don’t be afraid to share!)
• Things to consider in AI content vs. authenticity (AI is thought support, not a thought leader.)
• Adrienne’s branding principles
• Ways to stand out in a busy, crowded place
• Adrienne’s book, Digital Marketing for Mental Health: From Complex to Clarity

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s solo episode is the second of a three-part series we call The Therapist’s Path to a Successful Online Course. Today’s focus is on what therapists often get wrong about selling their first online course, considering all the assumptions we make and the misconceptions we hold about online courses. I’m bringing full transparency to today’s topic as I share what I’ve learned through my years of experience with online courses.

You’ll Learn:

• The guilt loop running in my head (“I became a therapist to help people, not to sell things.”)
• Mindset shift that made it all make sense to me
• Ethical selling: a path to transformation with deep care and clarity
• 3 sales mistakes therapists make—and what to do instead:
• Thinking “sales equals sleazing”
• Think of aligned sales as clear communication with a gentle and generous invitation.
• Avoiding the “ask” entirely
• If someone is clearly interested, don’t make them guess how to work with you. Give them a clear call-to-action.
• Not believing in the value of your course
• Your confidence comes from alignment. Focus on the transformation you can offer.
• Want to learn more about developing an online course? Find our FREE 7-day email course, The Course Creator Starter Kit, by clicking the link.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

How you can find Heather’s course, free webinar, and other resources at www.lovefilledlife.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Welcome to our fall season of new episodes! After a busy summer of family time and travel, I’m excited to be back with you on the podcast. Today’s conversation is an important one about mindful language in conversations touching on race and culture. Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Nathalie Edmond

Dr. Nathalie Edmond is a licensed psychologist and the author of Mindful Race Talk: Building Literacy, Fluency, and Agility. She is the perfect guest to help us approach race as clinicians in the therapy room and in our advocacy work. We are covering topics such as what it means to have an “embodied” conversation about race, the importance of our language, and how we can strike a balance between honesty and accountability. Our discussion includes the elements of conversations that are truly beneficial in light of today’s racially charged climate of cancel culture and “colorblindness.” We wrap up with a look at how clinicians can build cross-racial solidarity.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• The impetus and inspiration for writing Mindful Race Talk
• An “embodied conversation” about race—What does that mean?
• The importance of practicing to balance compassion and accountability
• Not talking about race is NOT the answer!
• The danger that clinicians face regarding multicultural awareness
• The myth of “colorblindness” vs. living with an attitude of racial and cultural awareness
• Steps to build racial competence, literacy, and agility
• The “charge” associated with the topic of race
• Dr. Nathalie’s advice for clinicians about tuning in and developing mindfulness and awareness
• Actions clinicians can take to develop cross-racial solidarity—What does this look like?

Resources:

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.

With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.

You support your clients. Alma supports you.

Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE–an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s session is a conversation about how to navigate guest appearances on podcasts. Whether you have future aspirations to launch a podcast or desire to grow your visibility by appearing on podcasts, this will be a helpful session for you! Podcasting offers possibilities for interesting connections and unimaginable opportunities. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dustin Riechmann

Dustin Riechmann is a new friend with whom I connected on LinkedIn. From an engineering background, Dustin has become an internet marketing and copywriting whiz. His entire niche is focused on helping entrepreneurs pitch themselves to bigger and bigger podcasts, which is a huge accelerant to business growth. Podcasting appearances help you establish social proof and open the doors to partnerships you could never imagine. Dustin shares his background story of coming to this niche and what he has learned along the way. He gives practical insights into crafting pitches to podcasters and much more valuable information on this topic.

You’ll Learn:

• The steps Dustin took as an engineer, consultant, entrepreneur, and digital marketer before his COVID-forced entrance into the podcasting world
• Why Dustin began guesting on established podcasts instead of starting his own
• How Dustin has used his three elements of a podcast pitch (relational anchors, clear service to the audience, and a clear and friendly call to action) to an 80% success rate
• Why Dustin sees podcast guesting as a specific part of the umbrella of partnership marketing
• Dustin’s mindset shift: “No one else has to lose for me to win. We can all win together!”
• How Dustin approaches his podcast pitch with his three elements, customizing the relational anchors to connect with the host on an authentic and personal level
• An overview of Dustin’s work and the Podcast Pitch Playbook

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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If you have ever considered creating an online course, or if you are already a course creator, you have probably thought a lot about marketing that course. The challenge is how to be thoughtful and creative in marketing your course, which becomes a separate income stream for your business. Starting a podcast is one of the best ways to market your course while creating a solid, compound income stream, and we are talking strategy today as I share what I’ve learned through my experience. Join us!

You’ll Learn:

• Why starting a podcast has been one of the most rewarding personal and professional endeavors of my life
• Why podcasts are the perfect way to produce authentic, evergreen content and establish trust
• How a podcast becomes a way to avoid burnout and take self-care breaks while staying consistent with releasing and re-releasing content
• How podcasts allow dynamic ads, which are pure magic (Captivate makes it easy!) and help build your email list
• How the podcasting format allows pre-roll, mid-roll, and end-roll ads to market your courses/resources consistently
• How the “flywheel effect” serves to compound your efforts over time if you leverage your existing course students on your podcast

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

How you can find Heather’s course, free webinar, and other resources at www.lovefilledlife.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s session is about leaving psychotherapy for coaching. This transition is one that many therapist colleagues have made, and the reality is that many more are shifting from the field of therapy into coaching. Several major factors play into this decision, and my guest today gives a transparent look at his experience in this transition. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Corey Wilks

Dr. Corey Wilks is a good friend and licensed psychologist who joins us for an open and honest look at his transition from therapy to coaching. In giving a glimpse into the circumstances and perspectives that led him to make this decision and shift his career, he shares how his career goals have changed over the years, what autonomy means to him, and why it is important. We wrap up by discussing mistakes that therapists often make in this career change and the drawbacks to leaving a traditional career in mental health.

Corey's Website

You’ll Learn:

• Corey’s career goals back in grad school—and how they have changed
• Understanding autonomy, freedom, and why these are Corey’s top priorities
• Corey’s realizations about therapy, wellness, and burnout
• Considerations in making the shift to entrepreneurship
• The biggest mistake people make in turning from therapy to coaching
• The difference in coaching as a much more solo-based endeavor than therapy
• Corey’s advice to a therapist considering becoming a coach
• The distinction between the roles of therapist and coach—and how Corey navigates “the line”

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

How you can find Heather’s course, free webinar, and other resources at www.lovefilledlife.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s session is a coaching call, and our main focus is on a struggle that many course creators face. When you are an expert in your course content, how do you find the balance in presenting information without overwhelming your students? I feel sure that every course creator has felt this struggle, so I hope you find today’s call to be helpful.

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call:

Heather England, Ph.D., LCP, LCPC, CST, CDWF

Dr. Heather England is a coach, certified sex therapist, and licensed clinical psychotherapist in Overland Park, Kansas. She is part of our online course mastermind, which you can explore at www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind. Heather is in the process of creating a course on erectile dysfunction, and she has already learned a lot in preparation to launch her course. Her biggest question is how to present her course without information overload for her students. You are invited to listen to the coaching call with Heather and Melvin!

Love Filled Life

You’ll Learn:

• How Heather evolved as a sex therapist and realized the need for more information
• How Heather found the niche for her online course in helping men with erectile issues
• A common mistake that our colleagues make in creating an online course
• How the STC Mastermind course has fast-tracked Heather’s course creation and launch (scheduled to begin in a few short weeks!)
• How Heather’s four-week course is structured with videos, downloadable resources, and a coaching call
• Why Heather is being intentional to allow her students to maintain anonymity if they prefer
• Tool options that can be used to allow students to submit questions to Dr. Heather privately
• Why Heather is struggling to uphold her standards of competency and concrete research without overwhelming her students with information and exercises
• How Heather is approaching a particular module of her course that includes a lot of information
• How to pare down exercises and activities to the most important “Aha moment” for students
• The value of using a survey to get feedback at the end of EACH module–rather than waiting until the end of the entire course
• Heather’s top takeaways from this coaching call and how she plans to implement what she has learned

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

How you can find Heather’s course, free webinar, and other resources at www.lovefilledlife.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s session is all about rebranding. We are taking a behind-the-scenes look at how different circumstances might affect the business you’ve established and force you to rebrand. Should you view this kind of pivot as a failure? Absolutely not! Let’s explore this topic together.

Our Featured Guest

Kevon Cheung

Kevon Cheung is the founder and head teacher at Small School. He was a previous guest on the podcast several years ago, and I’ve taken his Build in Public Mastery Course to help overcome my fears about posting on social media. I learned a lot of helpful information about creating effective posts on LinkedIn, YouTube, and the STC podcast. Kevon’s wisdom and practical knowledge have helped me lean into vulnerability in many areas. In light of his rebranding from Public Lab to Small School, Kevon shares the pain and difficulties in business building and rebranding, why he felt the need to rebrand, and what he teaches in his online “small courses.” He also explains where he sees course creators stumbling the most.

Small School

You’ll Learn:

• The painful parts of Kevon’s rebranding process (Changing your identity and “rebuilding what you’re known for”)
• Kevon’s thoughts about working through the inevitable feelings of failure when a change became necessary (How to reframe your mindset about a pivot)
• The biggest mistake course creators make
• Kevon’s #1 piece of advice for entrepreneurs and course creators
• Kevon’s reasoning behind his “all in” attitude about online courses
• Knowing when to add a course as a new offering (Have you validated your expertise with your audience?)
• Where course creators stumble the most–and why the goal is to create an experience that connects, surprises, and delights
• Kevon’s perspective on what a “small course” is

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

View Details

Many therapists have created online courses or have thought about creating an online course. It’s one of the best ways to increase your visibility, establish your expertise, and expand your audience and impact in the world. The course creation journey is not an easy one, and it’s full of challenges and ups and downs. Join us for a transparent look at the process from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Linda Murphy, MEd, MA, LMHC

Linda Murphy is a group practice owner in Florida, and she’s a member of the STC Online Course Mastermind group for therapists. Linda is the founder of the Banana Man Society and the Relationship and Divorce Counseling Center. She developed her idea to create a course for dealing with a difficult person because she saw that topic come up often for her clients, and she realized over time that there had to be a better way to distill and share information beyond 1:1 therapy. She created “Banana Man” as a metaphor for dealing with a difficult person–and the Banana Man Society was born. In this session, Linda gives an open, honest look at her course creation journey, along with insights into how she refined her idea. She shares tips and strategies she has learned that might be helpful to others in the course creation process.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to embrace the mindset of connection, support, and collaboration
• How Linda realized in her first career, as a teacher, that connection is more important than content
• How Linda developed the idea for her online course
• The origins of Banana Man as a metaphor for options in dealing with difficult people
• Why Linda created an animated video of the Banana Man story (through the STC Mastermind group)
• Linda’s best tips for others about creating a successful online course:
• Lean into who you are and be authentic.
• Market yourself and be creative with social media.
• Where Linda sees her course going in the future with a specifically targeted niche
• Linda’s thoughts about the impact and benefits of the STC Online Course Mastermind group

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Today’s session is in response to a frequent question about optimizing your LinkedIn profile. I don’t pretend to be a LinkedIn expert, but I have learned some valuable lessons in the past two years of using this platform. As I share screens and info with you today, you may find it more helpful to watch the YouTube video rather than simply listen to the audio. So many people are curious about LinkedIn and how to use it best, so I’m happy to share some of my insights today!

You’ll Learn:

• View your profile as a landing page, not a sales page.
• Tips for your banner (Canva is a great resource!), profile picture, text, and graphics
• My philosophy when trying something new: “Get going, get good, and then get smart.”
• Including credibility and social proof in your LI profile
• Beware of playing the analytics game!
• Taplio is a great resource for scheduling LI posts.
• Structure your “About” section with an emphasis on storytelling.
• Gauge your level of engagement with your ideal client.
• Be clear and simple about your call to action.
• Connect with your audience on a deeper level through your “Featured” section.
• Thoughts about maximizing the impact of your “Activity” section
• Tips for other sections on your LI profile

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you truly want can feel overwhelming. That’s why Alma is here—to help you create not just any practice, but your private practice.With Alma, you’ll get the tools and resources you need to navigate insurance with ease, connect with referrals that are the right fit for your style, and streamline those time-consuming administrative tasks. That means less time buried in the details and more time focused on delivering exceptional care to your clients.You support your clients. Alma supports you.Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma and get 2 months FREE—an exclusive offer for STC listeners.

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Creating an affiliate program for your online course can make a huge difference in your sales, but there are important things to consider. Being ready to start an affiliate program has prompted me to ask for a lot of advice from creators whose values align with mine. Do you want to know what they told me? Join me for this episode to learn more!

You’ll Learn:

• My explanation of the basics of an affiliate program and how it works
• 5 things successful creators told me to think about:
• Start with a small group of beta testers and get their valuable feedback. (I’m starting with a group of four people.)
• Establish your affiliate’s tax status from the start. (You’ll need to fill out the proper forms.)
• Set up auto payouts and refunds. (Take advantage of systems that make these processes easier. We use Kartra.)
• Think of your course as a way to build a “microphone” for your student, their message, and their social media/email marketing. (This makes it easier to bring in affiliate income.)
• Consider the 80/20 principle. The top 80-90% of your sales will come from the top 20% of your affiliates. (Ask, “What can I create to fuel the top 20% of my affiliates?”)

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

The Quiet Builder

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If you've ever thought about starting a podcast but felt overwhelmed by the idea of keeping it up long-term, this episode is for you! Whether you're still dreaming of launching or you've already started and are feeling burnout, I'm here to share the habits that have completely transformed my approach to podcasting. Podcasting can be an incredibly powerful tool to extend your reach and grow your impact beyond the therapy room, but without a sustainable strategy, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. In today’s episode, I'll walk you through the 7 simple yet impactful habits that have changed my relationship with podcasting and made this endeavor sustainable for the long haul. Get ready to hear how you can implement these practices into your own podcasting journey and finally create a process that works for YOU!

You’ll Learn:

• 7 habits that have changed everything for me:
• Design for longevity, not growth.
• Learn how I structure my podcast schedule around the life I want.
• Capture ideas daily.
• I use a private Slack channel to keep podcast ideas and give me a pipeline of new content.
• Follow a repeatable episode outline.
• Establish a framework for solo and guest episodes, and use solo episodes to invite people to your products and services.
• Batch record on off-months.
• I record January and February episodes in November and December and keep 3-6 episodes “in the bank” to create a buffer and flexibility.
• Warm up my voice and energy before recording.
• There are simple habits (tea, deep breathing, diction exercises, etc.) that work to help me treat my podcast like a speaking engagement.
• Promote my own offers first, and not just sponsors.
• Research shows that podcasters are the most trusted media personalities, and inviting people in through dynamic ads is a game changer. (Check out Captivate and the discount available for STC listeners.)
• Engage with listeners on a regular basis.
• Ask listeners what topics they want you to cover. Podcasting is not a one-way street!

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

The Quiet Builder

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How do you know if your idea for an online course is a good one? Today’s session kicks off a three-part series about online courses and how to build a sustainable online course as a therapist. The most common question I get is about ideas for online courses. If you’ve thought about launching an online course but have some hesitancy, this episode will be helpful for you. I remember going through the dilemma of choosing course ideas and wondering which ones are good. It was overwhelming, but I found a way to determine if a course idea is good, and I’m sharing what I’ve learned.

You’ll Learn:

• The best course ideas aren’t invented but are discovered in the questions your people are already asking.
• Three anchors for validating a good course idea:
• Your audience is already dropping clues.
• Pay attention to how you are seen as an expert.
• If someone asks you the same question three times or more, that’s a signal.
• Validate before you build.
• Don’t spend time creating slides without validating your idea.
• Put together a poll or Google form to get feedback. (Fathom.video is a helpful resource!)
• Don’t chase what’s trending; choose what’s enduring.
• Ask, “Will this course idea still be relevant 10-15 years from now?”
• Use AI tools to gather information.
• If you’re looking for a great free resource about your online course, check out our Course Creator Starter Kit.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

The Quiet Builder

View Details

Many therapists have created online courses or have thought about creating an online course. It’s one of the best ways to increase your visibility, establish your expertise, and expand your audience and impact in the world. The course creation journey is not an easy one, and it’s full of challenges and ups and downs. Join us for a transparent look at the process from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Linda Murphy, MEd, MA, LMHC

Linda Murphy is a group practice owner in Florida, and she’s a member of the STC Online Course Mastermind group for therapists. Linda is the founder of the Banana Man Society and the Relationship and Divorce Counseling Center. She developed her idea to create a course for dealing with a difficult person because she saw that topic come up often for her clients, and she realized over time that there had to be a better way to distill and share information beyond 1:1 therapy. She created “Banana Man” as a metaphor for dealing with a difficult person–and the Banana Man Society was born. In this session, Linda gives an open, honest look at her course creation journey, along with insights into how she refined her idea. She shares tips and strategies she has learned that might be helpful to others in the course creation process.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to embrace the mindset of connection, support, and collaboration
• How Linda realized in her first career, as a teacher, that connection is more important than content
• How Linda developed the idea for her online course
• The origins of Banana Man as a metaphor for options in dealing with difficult people
• Why Linda created an animated video of the Banana Man story (through the STC Mastermind group)
• Linda’s best tips for others about creating a successful online course:
• Lean into who you are and be authentic.
• Market yourself and be creative with social media.
• Where Linda sees her course going in the future with a specifically targeted niche
• Linda’s thoughts about the impact and benefits of the STC Online Course Mastermind group

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

The Quiet Builder

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Many of us have thought about creating continuing education courses and wondered how the process works and what factors are involved. Who better to learn from than someone who has successfully done this? Being successful in creating CEU courses requires innovation, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Join us for informative insights from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Matthew Bierds

Matt Bierds, from Duke City Counseling, is a licensed professional counselor, course creator, and professional speaker who does in-person and virtual counseling and LPC supervision in Texas and New Mexico. As far back as ten years ago, Matt realized that the world of online education was expanding, and he recognized the potential for LPCs in the field of online courses. After jumping into this arena, Matt went through a “failing forward” phase before making a few tweaks and creating a course for LPC supervisors. In today’s session, Matt shares the lessons learned along his fascinating journey and the mistakes and successes that have brought him to where he is today.

Matt's Website

You’ll Learn:

• Matt’s wisdom: “I learned the hard way that selling general continuing education courses online is pointless and a waste of time and money.”
• The value in pivoting and niching down when something isn’t working
• Discovering the sweet spot: How Matt created a course designed for a specific person in a specific situation
• Course creation is successful when you see the need and solve the pain point.
• Matt’s path to building trust and cultivating repeat customers
• The progression and development of Matt’s 40-hour course and 6-hour refresher courses
• The challenges in maintaining compliance and navigating changes in licensing requirements
• Course creation challenges: creating content and incorporating more video interaction and student engagement
• Matt’s biggest mistakes and successes in marketing his courses

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

The Quiet Builder

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Here we are, all set for the final episode of 2024. We will fill the next few weeks with replays of popular episodes and be back in 2025 with exciting new episodes. During this hiatus, I’ll be using these “Walden months,” as I call them, for extra rest and taking time to work on specific projects, like my online course. If you are considering launching an online course, today’s episode is for you! I’ve learned a lot over the last 9 years as a course creator, and I’m sharing an honest look at my biggest lessons learned and what I would tell anyone on this course creation path.

You’ll Learn:

• 5 things I want to share about launching an online course:
• Focus on what you already know and love to teach. (Stay within your niche!)
• Hear my thoughts on course creation and AI.
• Start small and build slowly. (Think about your “value ladder.”)
• Think about recurring offers related to your course.
• Validation is non-negotiable. (Validate your course idea before you proceed.)
• Download the free Course Creator Starter Kit.
• Embrace the tech, but don’t let it overwhelm you.
• Start with “good enough,” and upgrade your sound, lighting, and camera when you can.
• Hear my recommendations for basic tech for someone just starting out in course creation.
• Take a “defaulting to action” perspective rather than waiting for perfectionism.
• Build your audience early.
• Don’t wait until your course launch to build your email list.
• Use social media and discovery platforms.
• Use these affiliate links for more information: Teachable, ConvertKit, and Cartra

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

The Quiet Builder

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Today’s topic is at the heart of the Quiet Builder philosophy. The question is, “How do we design a business that supports our lives, not swallows it?” This becomes increasingly important as the world grows more uncertain and our responsibilities grow daily. This episode is for anyone building a business that fits into real life, and not the other way around.

You’ll Learn:

• My pandemic story of stepping back and reassessing my business
• 3 anchors for building a life-first business in an uncertain world:
• Design for margin, not maximum.
• Clarity comes from creating margin, not hustling.
• Designing for margin is how we stay well enough to serve others.
• Build products that don’t require your constant presence.
• Design for asymmetry, where value isn’t tied to one-to-one time.
• A life-first business scales impact, not just hours.
• Plan around what you can’t plan for.
• Your business should be designed to absorb disruption, not collapse under it.
• Strategies that work for me are “Walden months,” a hard growth ceiling on STC, and allowing maximum flexibility to travel when loved ones need extra help.
• To sum up today’s topic: “A resilient business doesn’t break when life happens; it bends with grace.”
• Need help in this area? Check out 50 Free ChatGPT Prompts for Quiet Builders on our website.
• Sign up here for our new newsletter, The Quiet Builder, that comes out twice monthly.

Free Resources for Quiet Builders, Podcasters, and Course Creators

Validate Your Online Course Idea

Get our free 7-day email course for therapists

sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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Today’s session focuses on therapy work with men who struggle with “nice guy syndrome.” If you aren’t familiar with the term or wonder how that niche works in a private practice, join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Jonathan Rudiger, PsyD

Jonathan Rudiger is a licensed psychologist who lives and works in the Nashville, TN, area. He was one of my clinical supervisors when I was at Vanderbilt, and he’s become a dear friend and mentor who helped shape me into who I am today. Besides his time at Vanderbilt, he has spent a number of years working at the VA and in various capacities in private practice. One of his areas of focus is with clients with “nice guy syndrome,” and he’s sharing about his work in this conversation. We will take a look at this unusual niche through a clinical lens and a business perspective. We wrap up with common mistakes therapists make when working with men who present as “nice guys” but are actually in a lot of pain.

LinkedIn (Website coming soon!)

You’ll Learn:

• Jonathan’s path to finding a niche and designing a private practice around it
• Characteristics of the “nice guy syndrome” and typical patterns in relationships
• Issues inherent in “nice guy syndrome” include low self-esteem, shame, fear of rejection, and a fundamental dishonesty with themselves.
• Niching down defines the best space for your work and the place with the least chance of burnout.
• Going from a clinical explanation to real-world language in marketing (Storytelling is key!)
• Framing psychotherapy with storytelling empowers people to tell their stories.
• Common mistakes therapists make when working with “nice guy syndrome” clients:
• They assume that the nice demeanor means things are okay.
• Neglecting the role of shame

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

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Today’s session covers strategies for setting boundaries, managing client expectations, and raising rates. All of these tasks can be uncomfortable for clinicians, but we have expert tips for adjusting your mindset and understanding your value. Join us for more!

Our Featured Guest

Melody Wilding

Melody Wilding, LMSW, has been in the coaching space for the past few years, doing amazing work through speaking engagements, workshops, and coaching. She recently wrote Managing Up: How to Get What You Need From the People in Charge. “Managing up” refers to the process of navigating relationships and improving trust with people who have more power than you. We all want to lead well, but there are many opportunities to learn and improve in our leadership. Melody helps us discover how to set boundaries around our availability and tackle the uncomfortable process of raising rates. She shares the necessary mindset shifts to make in advocating for our value while keeping relationships intact, which is one of the most delicate situations for most clinicians.

Website and Book

You’ll Learn:

• The clinician’s role in setting boundaries while providing customer service
• Importance of understanding power dynamics as a clinician
• Practical strategies for managing client expectations with clarity
• Key conversation elements to “manage up,” beginning with alignment
• Why hesitancy is normal around raising rates: How to have “the money conversation”
• Difference in the value you’ve already provided vs. the potential ROI going forward
• Clear communication regarding raising your rates
• Mindset shifts to empower you to raise your rates
• Creativity in adding value for clients without increasing your live time with them

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

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How do you know if your idea for an online course is a good one? Today’s session kicks off a three-part series about online courses and how to build a sustainable online course as a therapist. The most common question I get is about ideas for online courses. If you’ve thought about launching an online course but have some hesitancy, this episode will be helpful for you. I remember going through the dilemma of choosing course ideas and wondering which ones are good. It was overwhelming, but I found a way to determine if a course idea is good, and I’m sharing what I’ve learned.

You’ll Learn:

• The best course ideas aren’t invented but are discovered in the questions your people are already asking.
• Three anchors for validating a good course idea:
• Your audience is already dropping clues.
• Pay attention to how you are seen as an expert.
• If someone asks you the same question three times or more, that’s a signal.
• Validate before you build.
• Don’t spend time creating slides without validating your idea.
• Put together a poll or Google form to get feedback. (Fathom.video is a helpful resource!)
• Don’t chase what’s trending; choose what’s enduring.
• Ask, “Will this course idea still be relevant 10-15 years from now?”
• Use AI tools to gather information.
• If you’re looking for a great free resource about your online course, check out our Course Creator Starter Kit.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

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Are you a clinician in private practice who has considered taking insurance–but you just aren’t sure? Maybe you already take insurance, but are overwhelmed with navigating denials and rejections. Either way, today’s session is packed with helpful information and strategic tips. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Jeremy Zug

Jeremy Zug is a partner at Practice Solutions, which offers support and insurance billing for therapists and private practices. Their mission is to partner with and empower providers to focus on patient care by removing the burden of billing. Jeremy shares information about denials and rejections, the difference between the two, and how to fix them. He also shares the top three reasons for denials and rejections. We are thrilled to welcome Jeremy as a returning guest to STC!

Practice Solutions

You’ll Learn:

• What is a denial?
• The tricky layers of denials
• What is a rejection? (This is better than a denial and is usually fixable in a short amount of time.)
• Assessing your risk tolerance (low, medium, or high?)
• Fact: Some insurance companies are easier to work with than others. (Check their denial rates!)
• Insurance companies’ tactics to “control the spend”
• Jeremy’s advice about denials and appeals, especially for solo practitioners
• The top three reasons for denials: duplicate claim and service, coordination of benefits, and “denied for medical necessity”
• The top three reasons for rejections: credentialing issues, patient demographics, and “modifier inconsistent with place of service”
• The top actions therapists can take to fix denials and rejections: track them, look for a pattern/cause, and manage your insurance mixture
• An overview of Practice Solutions and their services (book, billing, and billing department support) Use this link for 20% off any of their services for STC listeners!

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Today’s session revolves around the phrase “quiet builder.” We are discussing the concept behind this phrase, as well as why this mindset is so vitally important in this day of political uncertainty, escalating AI technology, etc. You may wonder how you can build something meaningful without being loud, fast, and constantly online, and I honestly think about this concept very often. When I started Selling the Couch in 2015, I knew that I didn’t want to build my business like everyone else; my definition of success differs from what society pressures us to do to be successful as entrepreneurs. I wanted to embody a more holistic definition of success and well-being, and my purpose remains much bigger than simply building a successful business. Join me as we explore the idea of being a quiet builder.

You’ll Learn:

• 3 Marks of a Quiet Builder:
• Quiet builders create from depth, not noise.
• They focus on long-form content.
• Quiet builders design their businesses around their lives, not the other way around.
• They ask, “How do I build something I won’t resent 5-10 years from now?”
• Building with “margin” has become my goal.
• Quiet builders play the long game.
• They focus on timeless principles, like service, trust, and consistency as they look to cultivate a legacy.
• For building a values-driven, life-first business that goes against hustle culture messaging, join our new premium newsletter that is published twice monthly. Learn more aboutThe Quiet Builder Newsletter.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

Want to launch your podcast?

Please check out our free podcasting workshop called from Therapist To Thought Leader: Why Podcasting Could Be Your Next Big Move at https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Welcome to this session about AI and SEO, very relevant topics to consider in today’s world of constantly evolving technology. SEO is what most clinicians have focused on for many years, but the online world is changing rapidly in the face of new advancements in AI. With these advances come new levels of fear, excitement, and uncertainty about AI’s role in content creation, SEO, and more. If you feel lost and need direction around these topics, today’s podcast session will be helpful and informative.

Our Featured Guest

Mary Walker

Mary Walker is the new owner of Simplified SEO Consulting, a firm dedicated to helping therapists and other professionals grow their practices through strategic search engine optimization. In this conversation, Mary explains how AI is enhancing SEO, how she sees website SEO evolving with AI, and some of the biggest mistakes therapists make with SEO and AI.

Simplified SEO Consulting

You’ll Learn:

• Words of encouragement to clinicians about SEO
• Ways that AI is enhancing SEO (what we need to understand)
• Thoughts on changing your perspective if you’ve been fearful of AI
• Benefits of using social media and AI searches together
• Mary’s tips for maximizing SEO content on all platforms (Find out why YouTube is her #1 choice!)
• Don’t discount the effectiveness of video posts to share content and engage with your audience.
• Wisdom in balancing the frequency of social media posts and using AI tools to repurpose existing content (Mary recommends Pictory AI for easy video creation.)
• The scoop on schema markup–what it is and what it does (Find out more at schema.org.)
• Top SEO mistakes therapists make in the world of AI:
• Resisting change and being unwilling to adapt
• Writing content at a higher level, which AI doesn’t like
• Learn more about SEO with a free course and YouTube video series. Click here.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Welcome! Today’s session kicks off a two-part series on podcasting for therapists. Today’s focus is on how podcasting can help you build something bigger than just a business and help establish you as a trusted voice that resonates far beyond the therapy room. If you are a therapist who has been wondering whether it’s time to expand your reach, this episode is for you. As I’ve grown as a podcaster, I’ve learned lessons about thinking of this skill set as a tool for reaching far beyond clinical work in serving others and growing a business. Even though I was initially surprised that people would even listen to my podcast, I’ve come to understand that podcasting for me wasn’t just about sharing content. It is simply “credibility building” in slow motion, but it’s not the loud credibility that permeates social media. It is the quiet kind that is built through consistency, trust, and service.

You’ll Learn:

• In a noisy world, depth builds trust, and podcasting creates space for depth.
• Three ideas about using podcasting to build your thought leadership:
• Thought leadership begins with trust, and podcasting builds trust–one episode at a time.
• People follow voices that they trust, and podcasting gives them the time and space to be human and not just polished. Authenticity is a strength!
• Podcasting helps you organize and articulate your ideas.
• You learn to refine frameworks, language, and points of view.
• Podcasting positions you as a thoughtful voice in a noisy world.
• You don’t need to be the loudest; you need to be the most aligned. Going viral and building a massive audience has a lot of downsides.
• Therapists who podcast consistently become trusted voices.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Welcome to a new season of STC after a break of several weeks. I’m excited to be back with new sessions! Today’s topic to explore is the all-important question of why some offers sell well and others flop. I’m joined by my friend Prerna Malik!

Our Featured Guest

Prerna Malik

Prerna has worked with well-known entrepreneurs like Pat Flynn as a conversion copywriter. She and I connected on LinkedIn, and I immediately saw that she comes from a place of integrity and wisdom. In this session, we discuss what offers are and the top three conversion secrets that make offers sell like crazy. You’ll find our conversation informational and inspirational.

Prerna's Website and Free Email Course

You’ll Learn:

• What is an offer? (and what is it not?)
• Five key elements to an offer:
• The core offer
• Your unique mechanism
• Trust builders
• Desire drivers
• Objection demolishers
• Prerna’s top three conversion secrets to strong offers:
• Lead with emotion, simplicity, and clarity.
• Use specific messaging and positioning.
• Use user-based urgency.
• Maximizing the impact of your copy on your audience
• The most common mistakes entrepreneurs make in their offers
• A conversion mistake most people make without realizing it
• Thoughts on bonus offers: “Every bonus should have a purpose; otherwise, it’s just fluff.”

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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If you've ever thought about starting a podcast but felt overwhelmed by the idea of keeping it up long-term, this episode is for you! Whether you're still dreaming of launching or you've already started and are feeling burnout, I'm here to share the habits that have completely transformed my approach to podcasting. Podcasting can be an incredibly powerful tool to extend your reach and grow your impact beyond the therapy room, but without a sustainable strategy, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. In today’s episode, I'll walk you through the 7 simple yet impactful habits that have changed my relationship with podcasting and made this endeavor sustainable for the long haul. Get ready to hear how you can implement these practices into your own podcasting journey and finally create a process that works for YOU!

You’ll Learn:

• 7 habits that have changed everything for me:
• Design for longevity, not growth.
• Learn how I structure my podcast schedule around the life I want.
• Capture ideas daily.
• I use a private Slack channel to keep podcast ideas and give me a pipeline of new content.
• Follow a repeatable episode outline.
• Establish a framework for solo and guest episodes, and use solo episodes to invite people to your products and services.
• Batch record on off-months.
• I record January and February episodes in November and December and keep 3-6 episodes “in the bank” to create a buffer and flexibility.
• Warm up my voice and energy before recording.
• There are simple habits (tea, deep breathing, diction exercises, etc.) that work to help me treat my podcast like a speaking engagement.
• Promote my own offers first, and not just sponsors.
• Research shows that podcasters are the most trusted media personalities, and inviting people in through dynamic ads is a game changer. (Check out Captivate and the discount available for STC listeners.)
• Engage with listeners on a regular basis.
• Ask listeners what topics they want you to cover. Podcasting is not a one-way street!

Resources:

Try our FREE Podcasting Workshop to learn more.

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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If you’ve ever thought about creating an online course or made preparations to launch a course, today’s show should bring you clarity and inspiration. We are discussing five indicators that you are ready to launch that course you’ve considered. Join us to learn more!

You’ll Learn:

• My online course journey and how it all began for me
• The biggest lessons I learned from my multiple fears of getting started
• Are you ready to launch your online course? Here are five signs to help you say YES!
• You are looking for a scalable impact. (Do you have a bigger vision?)
• You have mastered a specific skill or have become a known expert in a particular niche.
• You have a passion for teaching.
• You are open to learning new skills.
• You are willing to validate your idea.
• My belief: “Every therapist has an online course inside them.”
• Our free email course can help you become a course creator! Find it here.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Private practice is often seen as the golden goose that brings everything clinicians hope for. However, there are many nuances to consider, as well as factors that can add significant stress to your life. This stress can lead to overwhelm, burnout, and questions about why you chose this route in the first place. Join us for today’s conversation!

Our Featured GuestJames Childress

James Childress is a CPA whose practice primarily focuses on working with therapists, giving him a unique perspective on today’s topic. In this episode, we cover the top three uncomfortable aspects of private practice that can lead to imbalance and big problems. James shares insights that help us better understand business ownership, financial stability, and the seasonal nature of private practice.

James' Website

You’ll Learn:* Common factors that lead clinicians into private practice and entrepreneurship * Key considerations before launching into private practice * The importance of trusting your gut and paying attention to the data

Uncomfortable Truths About Private Practice Finances:1. There is a size of private practice that is inherently unstable. (This is a normal phase to pass through.) 2. Assessing your supervisor/admin load is critical to maintaining balance. 3. Therapists often strive to succeed in every area and “want it all.”

Additional Insights:* The need for balanced growth and attracting more people into the field * Ensuring the external environment aligns with the internal environment * Achieving product-market fit for long-term sustainability

Resources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! here!

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you’re a seasoned therapist transitioning from clinical work to online course income, join our mastermind group! We meet to build, grow, and scale online courses. Learn more here.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Today’s session covers a topic that many clinicians are pondering. Many, like me, are having conversations with themselves in their heads about the available opportunities and the most efficient and ethical ways not to be left behind as technology presents new options in our field. The issue is how we can navigate the world of mental health tech startups that are available to join us to support our good work. Examples of what these startups provide are electronic health records, website design, marketing, and more. The truth is that the pandemic changed everything and catapulted the tech startup world into the range of billions of dollars. Don’t miss my enlightening conversation with today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Michael Fulwiler

Michael Fulwiler is Head of Brand Marketing at Heard, a company that assists therapists with bookkeeping and financial needs. I’ve come to rely on Mike’s expertise as a good friend as I navigate the aspects of STC, trying to be a protector of our field while staying in alignment with my values. In this session, Mike and I discuss the mindblowing numbers around the multitude of mental health tech startups and how clinicians can be informed about which ones are most likely to succeed or fail. We also discuss the vitally important topic of client data privacy and the top three considerations we should have before signing up for a product or service.

Heard Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to view tech startups in the mental health industry in terms of “headwind” and “tailwind” tendencies since the COVID-19 pandemic
• What the data shows about tech startups: 90% will fail!
• Why the big risk also comes with big opportunities in the startup world
• What happens when a clinician contracts with a mental health tech startup
• Why client data privacy is a valid concern when working with a tech startup (Hear Mike’s advice about watching out for red flags!)
• Top three considerations for a therapist about a tech startup:
• How they handle the data
• Whether or not there is a mental health professional on their team who helps with decisions and development
• How compensation for therapists is structured
• Mike’s advice about doing your due diligence when contacted by a tech startup
• An overview of Mike’s work and mission at Heard and what they provide for therapists

Resources:

Interested in starting a podcast?

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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This will be the last episode for a month or so as I take a break to get ahead on some projects and take extra time to recharge. Today’s session is in response to a frequent question about optimizing your LinkedIn profile. I don’t pretend to be a LinkedIn expert, but I have learned some valuable lessons in the past two years of using this platform. As I share screens and info with you today, you may find it more helpful to watch the YouTube video rather than simply listen to the audio. So many people are curious about LinkedIn and how to use it best, so I’m happy to share some of my insights today!

You’ll Learn:

• View your profile as a landing page, not a sales page.
• Tips for your banner (Canva is a great resource!), profile picture, text, and graphics
• My philosophy when trying something new: “Get going, get good, and then get smart.”
• Including credibility and social proof in your LI profile
• Beware of playing the analytics game!
• Taplio is a great resource for scheduling LI posts.
• Structure your “About” section with an emphasis on storytelling.
• Gauge your level of engagement with your ideal client.
• Be clear and simple about your call to action.
• Connect with your audience on a deeper level through your “Featured” section.
• Thoughts about maximizing the impact of your “Activity” section
• Tips for other sections on your LI profile

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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I’ve thought a lot about this topic and want to share more about it today. You might wonder why I don’t want to become social media famous since being active in thought leadership and content creation seems to require a certain degree of social media involvement. People “hang out” on social media platforms, but my impact on the world is not dependent on being a social media influencer. Let’s explore this topic!

You’ll Learn:

• Fame is more accessible than ever today.
• The path I’ve chosen values peace, depth, and privacy over chasing online recognition.
• Three key reasons why I don’t seek social media fame (and powerful reflection questions for you to consider):
• The illusion of fame as a solution to personal insecurities
• The lesson: If you aren’t grounded before you attract attention, more attention will only amplify your struggles.
• The emotional toll of public exposure
• The lesson: When you have a platform, you aren’t simply sharing content, but you are influencing people’s emotions, choices, and mental health.
• The erosion of personal privacy
• The lesson: Privacy is precious, and I want to build a business that supports my life, not one that makes me feel like I’m on display.
• My thoughts here are influenced by an impactful 2007 blog post by Tim Ferriss. You can check it out here.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

The Quiet Builder

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If you've ever thought about starting a podcast but felt overwhelmed by the idea of keeping it up long-term, this episode is for you! Whether you're still dreaming of launching or you've already started and are feeling burnout, I'm here to share the habits that have completely transformed my approach to podcasting. Podcasting can be an incredibly powerful tool to extend your reach and grow your impact beyond the therapy room, but without a sustainable strategy, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. In today’s episode, I'll walk you through the 7 simple yet impactful habits that have changed my relationship with podcasting and made this endeavor sustainable for the long haul. Get ready to hear how you can implement these practices into your own podcasting journey and finally create a process that works for YOU!

You’ll Learn:

• 7 habits that have changed everything for me:
• Design for longevity, not growth.
• Learn how I structure my podcast schedule around the life I want.
• Capture ideas daily.
• I use a private Slack channel to keep podcast ideas and give me a pipeline of new content.
• Follow a repeatable episode outline.
• Establish a framework for solo and guest episodes, and use solo episodes to invite people to your products and services.
• Batch record on off-months.
• I record January and February episodes in November and December and keep 3-6 episodes “in the bank” to create a buffer and flexibility.
• Warm up my voice and energy before recording.
• There are simple habits (tea, deep breathing, diction exercises, etc.) that work to help me treat my podcast like a speaking engagement.
• Promote my own offers first, and not just sponsors.
• Research shows that podcasters are the most trusted media personalities, and inviting people in through dynamic ads is a game changer. (Check out Captivate and the discount available for STC listeners.)
• Engage with listeners on a regular basis.
• Ask listeners what topics they want you to cover. Podcasting is not a one-way street!

Resources:

Try our FREE Podcasting Workshop to learn more.

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Today’s session highlights important questions to ask for solo or group practices about hiring an intake coordinator. Is this a smart move for your practice? Let’s dive into this topic and discuss barometers by which to measure and consider if an intake coordinator makes sense for your practice right now.

Our Featured Guest

Uriah Guilford

Uriah Guilford is a group practice owner based in northern California. He also owns Productive Therapist, which provides virtual assistants and intake coordinators for therapy practices. Uriah has been a group practice owner since 2015 and has a lot of wisdom to share about the journey to hire and train an intake coordinator. We cover all the bases on this topic, including if hiring an intake coordinator makes sense for your practice and the most common responsibilities of an intake coordinator that can help you reclaim valuable hours in your day. We also cover data privacy, how an intake coordinator should handle this, and the top mistakes clinicians make in hiring for this role. We wrap up with the metrics in determining when an intake coordinator is a great fit for your practice.

Productive Therapist

You’ll Learn:

• The purpose and role of an intake coordinator
• Trends in intake processes—what works best?
• Too many options confuse and overwhelm people looking for therapy.
• Is it time for me to hire an intake coordinator? How do I know? (Take Uriah’s quiz to find out!)
• How an intake coordinator can help you grow your practice
• Uriah’s opinion on the importance of an intake coordinator: “Your Intake Coordinator is the MVP of your practice.”
• Understanding when to delegate to your intake coordinator
• Uriah’s journey of letting go and transitioning responsibilities to his intake coordinator
• Top responsibilities of an intake coordinator
• Considerations about data privacy for your practice and your intake coordinator
• Solutions when your intake coordinator is sick or away on vacation
• Uriah’s advice on hiring (and retaining) intake coordinators for growing practices
• Top mistakes therapists make in hiring an intake coordinator
• Important considerations in training an intake coordinator
• Solid metrics to determine if an intake coordinator is right for you
• Uriah’s course, The Intake Coordinator Starter Pack: Find the course here and use the discount code “STC” for 25% off!

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

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If you’ve ever thought about creating an online course or made preparations to launch a course, today’s show should bring you clarity and inspiration. We are discussing five indicators that you are ready to launch that course you’ve considered. Join us to learn more!

You’ll Learn:

• My online course journey and how it all began for me
• The biggest lessons I learned from my multiple fears of getting started
• Are you ready to launch your online course? Here are five signs to help you say YES!
• You are looking for a scalable impact. (Do you have a bigger vision?)
• You have mastered a specific skill or have become a known expert in a particular niche.
• You have a passion for teaching.
• You are open to learning new skills.
• You are willing to validate your idea.
• My belief: “Every therapist has an online course inside them.”
• Our free email course can help you become a course creator! Find it here.

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

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Private practice is often seen as the golden goose that brings everything clinicians hope for. However, there are many nuances to consider, as well as factors that can add significant stress to your life. This stress can lead to overwhelm, burnout, and questions about why you chose this route in the first place. Join us for today’s conversation!

Our Featured GuestJames Childress

James Childress is a CPA whose practice primarily focuses on working with therapists, giving him a unique perspective on today’s topic. In this episode, we cover the top three uncomfortable aspects of private practice that can lead to imbalance and big problems. James shares insights that help us better understand business ownership, financial stability, and the seasonal nature of private practice.

James' Website

You’ll Learn:* Common factors that lead clinicians into private practice and entrepreneurship * Key considerations before launching into private practice * The importance of trusting your gut and paying attention to the data

Uncomfortable Truths About Private Practice Finances:1. There is a size of private practice that is inherently unstable. (This is a normal phase to pass through.) 2. Assessing your supervisor/admin load is critical to maintaining balance. 3. Therapists often strive to succeed in every area and “want it all.”

Additional Insights:* The need for balanced growth and attracting more people into the field * Ensuring the external environment aligns with the internal environment * Achieving product-market fit for long-term sustainability

Resources:Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more! here!

Want to launch your online course?

Check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you’re a seasoned therapist transitioning from clinical work to online course income, join our mastermind group! We meet to build, grow, and scale online courses. Learn more here.

Mentioned in this episode:

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If you’ve been thinking about posting more on LinkedIn or if you’re curious about how to best use this social media platform, today’s show is for you. It took me a long time to understand the purpose of LinkedIn and how it can be beneficial in connecting me to the right followers. Join me for an honest look at my experience and the biggest lessons learned.

You’ll Learn:

• 5 lessons learned over the last 2 years on LinkedIn:
• The magic is in the DMs.
• Focusing on thoughtful relationships is better than chasing followers.
• LinkedIn’s search tool is amazingly helpful for making connections.
• The algorithm will always change.
• Don’t chase trends, but focus on consistency and diversified content.
• Experiment on LinkedIn, but don’t overthink the metrics.
• Watch out for growth gurus.
• Be wary of those who over-promise and under-deliver.
• I’m more interested in posting things that will help a young therapist like I used to be.
• Followers are less relevant than you think.
• It’s about the right people—not ALL people.
• Try creator mode and curate your network intentionally.
• The daily posting game is a slow burn.
• I’ve learned to pace myself in posting.
• I would rather focus on slower growth in followers and have consistency and sustainability.
• Connect with me on LinkedIn!

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

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Today’s topic will resonate with many of us in private practice as we focus on burnout. Therapists are faced with many questions around how they want to conduct their businesses and structure their lives—and no one wants to face the reality of burnout. Let’s take a closer look with today’s guest.

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Jennifer Blanchette is a licensed psychologist, podcaster, speaker, career coach, and business consultant. She helps therapists get unstuck in their careers and lives. In this episode, Dr. Jen discusses the hazards of our profession, how it’s changing, and the emphasis on certain markers around revenue and numbers. Jen gives a sense of why we can't talk about burnout very often, along with telltale signs she noticed in her personal experience with burnout. We also discuss the strange juxtaposition of finding freedom in private practice but taking on more administrative roles, experiencing isolation, and bearing the heavy emotional toll. We close with honest insights about tuning into our bodies and learning to listen. Jen gives practical advice for any therapist who could be teetering on the edge of burnout.

Website (and The Therapist Burnout Podcast)

You’ll Learn:

• Burnout—why we are afraid to talk about it
• Unexpected isolation and the need to find community
• Private practice offers freedom, right??
• Learning to listen to your body
• Factoring your body into major decisions in life and giving yourself space for rest
• Jen’s private practice experience during the COVID-19 pandemic
• Managing our resources, energy, and our ability to give
• Telltale signs of burnout for Jen
• It’s okay to ask for help!
• Looking at all aspects of private practice and the actual costs
• Jen’s perspective on burnout today and what therapists need to look for
• Burnout prevention vs. burnout recovery
• Jen’s advice to therapists who are teetering on the edge of burnout

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

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This is the first episode of 2025, which marks the ten-year milestone for the STC podcast! It’s incredible that, despite my fears and uncertainties, this podcast began as a small dream of mine to use our skill sets beyond the therapy room and learn to build successful businesses. I’ve loved documenting my journey of transitioning from psychologist to online creator, podcaster, and public speaker, and I’m eternally grateful to you, each listener. It is a humbling experience that’s given me way more encouragement in return than I could have ever imagined.

This episode is an honest look at my decision in 2024 to return to private practice, which I detailed in a podcast episode and on social media posts. I’m being extremely vulnerable in explaining why I’ve decided to pause my private practice journey for now. It’s tough for any people pleaser like myself to realize that others may be disappointed in my decision, so I want to explain. Join me for this solo episode as I lay out the details.

You’ll Learn:

• The reality is that we don’t build a business in a vacuum, and external factors are always in play.
• Three significant life events impacting my decision:
• Susan’s job changes mean more home responsibilities for me.
• Aging parents–and their need for more consistent care
• More church responsibilities in leading a small group
• A look at my typical daily schedule
• My commitment to viewing parenting as a privilege–and what that looks like for me as a dad
• My simple insights about the totality of life and my next steps:
• Income is only one part of success.
• My brain is not wired for the mental load of running two businesses.
• I’m hitting my “enough” number with STC revenue.
• Caregiving for our parents is on the horizon, and I have the most flexibility in our family to do this.
• I’m realizing how I can best leverage what we’ve built with STC to bring the maximum benefit to our field and the world.
• My big dreams to do good and effect meaningful change to help more people

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Here we are, all set for the final episode of 2024. We will fill the next few weeks with replays of popular episodes and be back in 2025 with exciting new episodes. During this hiatus, I’ll be using these “Walden months,” as I call them, for extra rest and taking time to work on specific projects, like my online course. If you are considering launching an online course, today’s episode is for you! I’ve learned a lot over the last 9 years as a course creator, and I’m sharing an honest look at my biggest lessons learned and what I would tell anyone on this course creation path.

You’ll Learn:

• 5 things I want to share about launching an online course:
• Focus on what you already know and love to teach. (Stay within your niche!)
• Hear my thoughts on course creation and AI.
• Start small and build slowly. (Think about your “value ladder.”)
• Think about recurring offers related to your course.
• Validation is non-negotiable. (Validate your course idea before you proceed.)
• Download the free Course Creator Starter Kit.
• Embrace the tech, but don’t let it overwhelm you.
• Start with “good enough,” and upgrade your sound, lighting, and camera when you can.
• Hear my recommendations for basic tech for someone just starting out in course creation.
• Take a “defaulting to action” perspective rather than waiting for perfectionism.
• Build your audience early.
• Don’t wait until your course launch to build your email list.
• Use social media and discovery platforms.
• Use these affiliate links for more information: Teachable, ConvertKit, and Cartra

Resources:

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy Notes! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH” to get 50% off for the first three months!

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

📬 The Quiet Builder: A premium newsletter for therapists, founders & leaders building thoughtful work + lives.

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Hosting a retreat sounds like a great idea, right? When you stop and think about all the logistical and financial details, that’s when many fears and questions come to the surface. Perhaps the biggest fear is whether enough people will pay for your retreat to make it a success. Join us as we dive into this topic with today’s expert guest!

Our Featured Guest

Megan Gunnell

In addition to being a business owner, author, and triathlete, Megan Gunnell is a Clinical Social Worker who has been hosting 1-day retreats, workshops and weekend/week long retreats for 20+ years.

She hosted her first one at a local community center–complete with harp music! From these humble beginnings, Megan’s retreats have evolved into weekend retreats and international retreats that started in 2012 in Costa Rica, Italy, France, and other places around the globe.

In this episode, we discuss why therapists find it so appealing to consider hosting a retreat, along with common fears related to the risk of hosting your first retreat.

Megan explains how to find suitable venues that offer 100% refund options and points out the important legal and logistical considerations. We wrap up our conversation by discussing retreat marketing, which is vital to the success of your retreat. Megan shares what she has learned along her journey as a retreat host.

Megan's Website and Thriving Therapists ® Facebook Group

You’ll Learn:

• Megan’s inspiration to expand beyond private practice into hosting retreats
• Megan’s #1 lesson learned: Start small and grow later.
• The attraction of retreats? They are transformative spaces for people to pull away from everyday life and reinvigorate their passion and purpose.
• The major differences between private practice work and group retreats as income sources
• Legal considerations around liability, disclaimers, emergencies, etc.
• Megan’s low-risk tips for hosting retreats:
• Start small with a test audience and test venue with a half-day or one-day retreat.
• Look for 100% refundable venues through a certain date prior to the event.
• Do the math and “beta-test” your audience.
• Making your retreat a profitable venture
• Finding 100% fully refundable venues—and why international properties are desirable
• Megan’s top marketing strategies for retreats:
• Be very clear about your intentions. (Who is this for, and what is the purpose?)
• Think about your runway. (Make sure it is long enough to “land the plane.”)
• Build a warm excitement with your audience around the date for open registration.
• Handling the cancellation or rebooking of your retreat with flexibility and transparency

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast? Check out our free podcasting workshop

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

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Many therapists have created online courses or have thought about creating an online course. It’s one of the best ways to increase your visibility, establish your expertise, and expand your audience and impact in the world. The course creation journey is not an easy one, and it’s full of challenges and ups and downs. Join us for a transparent look at the process from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Linda Murphy, MEd, MA, LMHC

Linda Murphy is a group practice owner in Florida, and she’s a member of the STC Online Course Mastermind group for therapists. Linda is the founder of the Banana Man Society and the Relationship and Divorce Counseling Center. She developed her idea to create a course for dealing with a difficult person because she saw that topic come up often for her clients, and she realized over time that there had to be a better way to distill and share information beyond 1:1 therapy. She created “Banana Man” as a metaphor for dealing with a difficult person–and the Banana Man Society was born. In this session, Linda gives an open, honest look at her course creation journey, along with insights into how she refined her idea. She shares tips and strategies she has learned that might be helpful to others in the course creation process.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to embrace the mindset of connection, support, and collaboration
• How Linda realized in her first career, as a teacher, that connection is more important than content
• How Linda developed the idea for her online course
• The origins of Banana Man as a metaphor for options in dealing with difficult people
• Why Linda created an animated video of the Banana Man story (through the STC Mastermind group)
• Linda’s best tips for others about creating a successful online course:
• Lean into who you are and be authentic.
• Market yourself and be creative with social media.
• Where Linda sees her course going in the future with a specifically targeted niche
• Linda’s thoughts about the impact and benefits of the STC Online Course Mastermind group

Resources:

Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

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Today’s session is all about rebranding. We are taking a behind-the-scenes look at how different circumstances might affect the business you’ve established and force you to rebrand. Should you view this kind of pivot as a failure? Absolutely not! Let’s explore this topic together.

Our Featured Guest

Kevon Cheung

Kevon Cheung is the founder and head teacher at Small School. He was a previous guest on the podcast several years ago, and I’ve taken his Build in Public Mastery Course to help overcome my fears about posting on social media. I learned a lot of helpful information about creating effective posts on LinkedIn, YouTube, and the STC podcast. Kevon’s wisdom and practical knowledge have helped me lean into vulnerability in many areas. In light of his rebranding from Public Lab to Small School, Kevon shares the pain and difficulties in business building and rebranding, why he felt the need to rebrand, and what he teaches in his online “small courses.” He also explains where he sees course creators stumbling the most.

Small School

You’ll Learn:

• The painful parts of Kevon’s rebranding process (Changing your identity and “rebuilding what you’re known for”)
• Kevon’s thoughts about working through the inevitable feelings of failure when a change became necessary (How to reframe your mindset about a pivot)
• The biggest mistake course creators make
• Kevon’s #1 piece of advice for entrepreneurs and course creators
• Kevon’s reasoning behind his “all in” attitude about online courses
• Knowing when to add a course as a new offering (Have you validated your expertise with your audience?)
• Where course creators stumble the most–and why the goal is to create an experience that connects, surprises, and delights
• Kevon’s perspective on what a “small course” is

Resources:

Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

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Many of us have thought about creating continuing education courses and wondered how the process works and what factors are involved. Who better to learn from than someone who has done this successfully? Being successful at CEU course creation takes innovation, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Join us for informative insights from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Matthew Bierds

Matt Bierds, from Duke City Counseling, is a licensed professional counselor, course creator, and professional speaker who does in-person and virtual counseling and LPC supervision in Texas and New Mexico. As far back as ten years ago, Matt realized that the world of online education was expanding, and he knew there were interesting opportunities for LPCs in the area of online courses. After jumping into this arena, Matt went through a “failing forward” phase before making a few tweaks and creating a course for LPC supervisors. In today’s session, Matt shares the lessons learned along his fascinating journey and the mistakes and successes that have brought him to where he is today.

Matt's Website

You’ll Learn:

• Matt’s wisdom: “I learned the hard way that selling general continuing education courses online is pointless and a waste of time and money.”
• The value in pivoting and niching down when something isn’t working
• Discovering the sweet spot: How Matt created a course designed for a specific person in a specific situation
• Course creation is successful when you see the need and solve the pain point.
• Matt’s path to building trust and cultivating repeat customers
• The progression and development of Matt’s 40-hour course and 6-hour refresher courses
• The challenges in maintaining compliance and navigating changes in licensing requirements
• Course creation challenges: creating content and incorporating more video interaction and student engagement
• Matt’s biggest mistakes and successes in marketing his courses

Resources:

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.

But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.

Simplified SEO Consulting is a team of mental health professionals who genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.

Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo.

**Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any online, DIY SEO courses, and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

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If you’ve had a standoff with perfectionism in starting something new, you’ll want to join us for this coaching call in today’s session. Like most clinicians who are branching out with an online course, my guest is struggling with her fears about this new endeavor and whether she will get it right. Join us to hear the conversation.

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call

Katie Lear, LCMHC, RPT, RDT

Katie Lear is a therapist in solo private practice near Charlotte, NC. She was part of the Online Course School Live Cohort, and she’s part of the Online Course School Mastermind this year. She is preparing for the beta group launch of her course, and her next step will be to record the digital version. This process gives a chance to collect feedback from beta students on the lessons and modules before creating the digital version. Join us for this open and honest conversation around fear and perfectionism.

Katie's Website

You’ll Learn:

• A look at how Katie arrived at her private practice niche working with preteens and tweens around anxiety and OCD symptoms
• Why Katie decided to jump into the online course world
• How an online course income stream helps clinicians build a balanced life outside their career, have more time and capacity for family, and utilize another way to reach clients
• The starting point for content in Katie’s course: teaching about coping skills
• How Katie is looking to incorporate a playful element into her course
• How Katie is dealing with “blank-page syndrome” in creating her course slides
• Tips for Katie in distilling and refining the content for her course
• Why heart and intent matter more in an online course than “Hollywood-level” production
• Why there is great value in teaching with the structure of three tips, three steps, and common mistakes

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Quiet Builder!

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In today’s busy online world, virtual presentations are everything in how you are received AND perceived. If you put forth the effort to create an online course, webinar, or speaking engagement, you want to show up authentically and masterfully to engage your audience. This is an important area in which there is always room for improvement! My guest today is a proven expert in virtual presentation, and she’s here to share her knowledge with us. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Lorraine K. Lee

Lorraine Lee is a top career and business virtual keynote speaker who has been featured in several publications and on podcasts with numerous accomplishments and awards throughout her career. She has worked in several editorial roles at LinkedIn and Prezi and has built a LinkedIn following of over 300,000, so she is very much immersed in the world of virtual presentations and online learning. She is the perfect person to help us understand more about improving our virtual presentations.

Lorraine's Website

You’ll Learn:

• How virtual presentations give you access to a wider audience and help you stand out in your expertise
• Why the entertainment factor of virtual presentations cannot be ignored
• Examples of different types of virtual presentations
• Lorraine’s tips for improving your virtual presentations:
• Add movement to your presentations and incorporate “state changes.”
• Curate your background with features that are calming, positive, personable, and professional.
• Include visuals on your screens to help people learn and remember. (90% of the information processed by our brains is visual!)
• Use eye contact to improve your connection to your audience.
• How to implement visuals like logos, color gradients, and simple info on your screen
• How to use artwork, photos, and personal elements to cultivate a deeper connection
• How to set up your monitor, camera, laptop, etc. to maximize eye contact with your audience
• Lorraine’s tips for introverts in showing up better in visual presentations
• An overview of Lorraine’s expanding consulting business

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Psych Careers!

Today's podcast is supported by the American Psychological Association's Psych Careers. If you are a psychology professional looking to advance your career or thinking about a pivot, definitely encourage you to check out Psych Careers, which is the career center from the American Psychological Association Services, Inc. There are over 400 positions available. It's the perfect time to create a free account, upload your resume, and set up job alerts. sellingthecouch.com/APA

Try Psych Careers!

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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Here we are, all set for the final episode of 2024. We will fill the next few weeks with replays of popular episodes and be back in 2025 with exciting new episodes. During this hiatus, I’ll be using these “Walden months,” as I call them, for extra rest and taking time to work on specific projects, like my online course. If you are considering launching an online course, today’s episode is for you! I’ve learned a lot over the last 9 years as a course creator, and I’m sharing an honest look at my biggest lessons learned and what I would tell anyone on this course creation path.

You’ll Learn:

• 5 things I want to share about launching an online course:
• Focus on what you already know and love to teach. (Stay within your niche!)
• Hear my thoughts on course creation and AI.
• Start small and build slowly. (Think about your “value ladder.”)
• Think about recurring offers related to your course.
• Validation is non-negotiable. (Validate your course idea before you proceed.)
• Download the free Course Creator Starter Kit.
• Embrace the tech, but don’t let it overwhelm you.
• Start with “good enough,” and upgrade your sound, lighting, and camera when you can.
• Hear my recommendations for basic tech for someone just starting out in course creation.
• Take a “defaulting to action” perspective rather than waiting for perfectionism.
• Build your audience early.
• Don’t wait until your course launch to build your email list.
• Use social media and discovery platforms.
• Use these affiliate links for more information: Teachable, ConvertKit, and Cartra

Resources:

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy Notes! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH” to get 50% off for the first three months!

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Try Psych Careers!

Try Psych Careers!

Today's podcast is supported by the American Psychological Association's Psych Careers. If you are a psychology professional looking to advance your career or thinking about a pivot, definitely encourage you to check out Psych Careers, which is the career center from the American Psychological Association Services, Inc. There are over 400 positions available. It's the perfect time to create a free account, upload your resume, and set up job alerts. sellingthecouch.com/APA

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If you are a therapist in private practice in the US, this episode will be helpful for you. We are breaking down the new legal requirements under the Corporate Transparency Act. This act requires that you comply by the end of 2024, so time is running out. This act is part of an effort to reduce money laundering by shell companies, focusing on business ownership. If you have an LLC or an S-corp, please take the time to listen and learn more.

Our Featured Guests

Dan Mayer and Dr. David Yood

Dan Mayer is an attorney who works with many mental health and healthcare practitioners. Dr. David Yood is a licensed psychologist and private practice owner who gives his perspective of the Corporate Transparency Act and its requirements. Dan and Dave co-host the Protecting Your Practice Podcast for mental health practitioners. In this session, they use simple language to explain what the CTA is, what the filing requirements and processes are, the implications of non-compliance, and the constitutionality of the act.

Dan's website

Dave's website

Protecting Your Practice Podcast

You’ll Learn:

• What is the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA)?
• Dave’s perspective about the CTA, his private practice, and compliance requirements
• A look at the compliance requirements of the CTA (mostly about ownership of companies)
• Who needs to register under the CTA? (Get professional help if you aren’t sure!)
• Thoughts on the constitutionality of the CTA
• Dave’s perspective on what the CTA requires of him
• Consequences of not filing under the CTA
• Dan’s recommendations for business owners
• Find out more about the CTA and how to file (in just a few minutes): fincen.gov

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Psych Careers!

Try Psych Careers!

Today's podcast is supported by the American Psychological Association's Psych Careers. If you are a psychology professional looking to advance your career or thinking about a pivot, definitely encourage you to check out Psych Careers, which is the career center from the American Psychological Association Services, Inc. There are over 400 positions available. It's the perfect time to create a free account, upload your resume, and set up job alerts. sellingthecouch.com/APA

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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If you have aspirations to be a keynote speaker of any kind, this episode is for you! I recently had the opportunity to speak at my first conference, the Mental Health Marketing Conference, in Franklin, TN. This conference is for clinicians and marketing tech people in the mental health field, and it was a fantastic gathering of about 300 in-person participants. I’m sharing what I wish I had known earlier about speaking at conferences. I hope you find this episode helpful!

You’ll Learn:

• 7 things I wish I had known earlier about speaking at conferences:
• Know the setup.
• This varies from conference to conference. Know about rehearsal opportunities, Green Room, mic/sound/slides check, timekeeping, etc.
• Find a place to rest and re-center before you go backstage.
• I didn’t do a great job at this, and I should have made other arrangements.
• Make sure the mic doesn’t hit your clothes when you move.
• I’ll be more careful with this and test it better next time.
• Use social media to share “before/after” posts to document your journey.
• I did LinkedIn posts and selfies and had friends in the crowd take pictures during my presentation.
• Have a small squad of friends sit near the front in the crowd.
• This 100% helped give me confidence.
• Start with a story that people will remember.
• Leading with a story makes an impact and connects you to your audience. (Hint: Be clear about your topic.)
• Understand the crazy power in public speaking. Pace yourself.
• The endorphin rush of being “in flow” brings an amazing level of external validation. I loved it!

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Try Psych Careers!

Try Psych Careers!

Today's podcast is supported by the American Psychological Association's Psych Careers. If you are a psychology professional looking to advance your career or thinking about a pivot, definitely encourage you to check out Psych Careers, which is the career center from the American Psychological Association Services, Inc. There are over 400 positions available. It's the perfect time to create a free account, upload your resume, and set up job alerts. sellingthecouch.com/APA

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The perfect recipe for burnout is to work in a caring profession, be a slave to perfectionism, and neglect your needs. As clinicians, we realize that we work in a flawed healthcare system in the US, but how do we exist in this environment to do good work and sustain ourselves from a holistic perspective that goes way beyond basic self-care? We are diving into this topic with today’s guest. Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Jessi Gold

Dr. Jessi Gold is the first Chief Wellness Officer for the University of Tennessee System, which comprises five campuses and more than 60,000 students. Also serving as an associate professor of psychiatry, Dr. Gold is a speaker, media advocate, author, and mental health consultant. She recently wrote How Do You Feel? One Doctor's Search for the Humanity in Medicine. In today’s session, Jessi shares her experience in teetering on the edge of burnout and what she learned about herself.

Dr. Jessi Gold

You’ll Learn:

• The basics of Dr. Jessi’s role with the University of Tennessee and what it means to be a Chief Wellness Officer
• The differences and barriers from campus to campus in a university system
• “Silo-breaking” as it relates to mental health
• The difficulty in caring for ourselves while caring for others
• Perfectionism, burnout, and why “it’s OK not to be OK”
• The pandemic’s part in training us to wear a “badge of honor” for not caring for ourselves and our mental health
• We are human—and we forget that very often.
• The event that was the impetus for Dr. Jessi’s book—and why it left her feeling horrible
• Signs of early burnout that Dr. Jessi only noticed in hindsight
• Making the shift to navigate perfectionist tendencies to prevent burnout
• The importance of having self-compassion and reframing the mean things we say to ourselves
• The value of timeout for ME

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

If you are a seasoned therapist who wants to move from clinical to online course income, we have a specific mastermind for you. We meet together to build, grow, and scale our online courses. You can learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals that are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma (Special offer for STC listeners through link.)

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

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Have you thought about starting a podcast? If you run a busy private practice, you might wonder how you could take on such an endeavor in addition to all the other things you do. I feel your concerns, as I’m coming up on ten years as a clinician-turned-podcaster. I’ve learned a lot, and I want to share five unique ways you can launch and run a successful podcast without it feeling like another “job” you have to do. Join me in this session to learn more!

You’ll Learn:

• Fact: Podcasting has made my life a lot easier in many ways.
• Five unexpected insights into podcasting as a beneficial addition:
• Batch record and automate.
• This will save you a ton of time, which is your most precious asset.
• Look at your schedule and identify a 2-3 hour block of time for recording episodes. (Captivate makes it easier!)
• Bonus tip: Stack this by creating a podcast on your live schedule so you don’t have to record new episodes every week/month.
• Repurpose your existing content.
• Look for common themes and pain points with your clients.
• Capture ideas during the course of your day with notes or a notes app.
• Bonus tip: My private Slack subchannel helps me.
• Use podcasting as a client-attraction tool.
• Your podcast can reduce your marketing workload and attract clients and customers organically.
• Podcasters are the most trusted media personalities.
• Podcasts are evergreen and have binge potential.
• Bonus tip: Create episodes around questions clients ask that are related to your niches and specialties.
• Keep episodes short and impactful.
• Shorter episodes are easier for you AND the listener. (15-25 minutes is an ideal length.)
• Bonus tip: Set a 20-minute timer and cover one question relating to a common struggle within your niche.
• Outsource editing to free up your time.
• You don’t have to be the editor; hire someone!
• Outsourcing allows you to focus on your zone of genius and not get bogged down with the technical side.
• Bonus tip: Reach out to local colleges and universities for students who are looking for work.
• Check out the free workshop, Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business. Click here.

Resources:

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy Notes! Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH” to get 50% off for the first three months!

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals that are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma (Special offer for STC listeners through link.)

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Today’s topic is one we’ve danced around but never tackled head-on. We’re covering the transition from being a solo practitioner to a private pay group practice. There are many things to consider in making this shift, and today’s guest shares an open and honest look at his experience. Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Adam Assoian

Dr. Adam Assoian is a licensed clinical psychologist and the owner of Ally Psychological Services. His full private-pay group practice began in 2019 and now employs more than eight clinicians. They experienced their busiest month this past summer when there is traditionally a seasonal slowdown. Adam joins us to share his transition from solo practitioner to private practice group practice and why he did not go the insurance route, which is seen as the “safer” move. We get Adam’s take on logistical tips about finding office space, finding clients, marketing, and payment options. Our conversation wraps up with a discussion of sustainability during uncertain economic situations.

Adam’s Website: Ally Psych

You’ll Learn:

• An overview of Ally Psych’s growth over the last five years
• Factors in Adam’s decision to be private pay vs. insurance
• Tips on maintaining a “people over profits” mentality
• Considerations in choosing a physical space and location for an office
• The importance in figuring out the numbers for sustainability in a group practice
• Adam’s commitment to prioritizing the comfort of the client as part of the entire therapy experience
• Adam’s perspective on what his clinicians charge for therapy services
• The biggest stressor for Adam as a practice owner
• Factors in Adam’s diversified marketing approach
• The importance of networking relationships and referrals
• Common mistakes therapists make in this transition
• Adam’s structure for accepting payments at Ally Psych
• How Adam prepares for sustainability in his practice during seasonal slowdowns and an uncertain economy

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Try Alma!

Building and managing the practice you want can be challenging. That’s why Alma offers tools and resources to help you build not just any practice, but your private practice. They’ll help you navigate insurance, access referrals that are the right fit for you, and efficiently manage administrative tasks — so you can spend less time on the details, and more time delivering great care. You support your clients. Alma supports you. Learn more at sellingthecouch.com/alma (Special offer for STC listeners through link.)

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The act of decluttering sounds like a simple thing, but it can be loaded with emotions, triggers, and feelings of overwhelm. Today’s guest takes us through this process which can be a beneficial supplement to therapy.

Our Featured Guest

Sarah Mueller

Sarah Mueller is a friend I’ve known for several years. She started The Decluttering Club to teach people to declutter in a way that doesn’t create burnout, lets them keep the things they love, and actually lasts for the long term. She has grown a huge online following based on the concept of decluttering. It’s a relatable problem that we all face, and learning to let things go is important. Sarah discusses why decluttering is part of her story and part of who she is. She explains what decluttering is, what the benefits are, and how to declutter even when you feel overwhelmed. We wrap up by covering how decluttering can be an advantageous supplement to therapy.

The Decluttering Club

You’ll Learn:

• Sarah’s story that led her to create The Decluttering Club
• Sarah’s tagline: “Less stuff, more life!”
• The impacts of the personal and professional growth for Sarah as she fulfills the needs of others
• Decluttering defined: “Letting go of anything that doesn’t serve me”
• Being honest about what serves you and what “is clutter and needs to go”
• The internal work around stories, emotions, and our attachments that goes along with decluttering
• Benefits of decluttering
• Decluttering when you feel overwhelmed
• Sarah’s tips for decluttering books
• How letting go of sentimental items can be part of healing
• Working with a decluttering expert can supplement therapy in many ways
• Why decluttering is a combination of practical work and emotional work to boost someone’s self-worth

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Selling the Couch Newsletter

Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

Try Upheal!

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

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Today’s session is about leaving psychotherapy for coaching. This transition is one that many therapist colleagues have made, and the reality is that many more are shifting from the field of therapy into coaching. Several major factors play into this decision, and my guest today gives a transparent look at his experience in this transition. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Corey Wilks

Dr. Corey Wilks is a good friend and licensed psychologist who joins us for an open and honest look at his transition from therapy to coaching. In giving a glimpse into the circumstances and perspectives that led him to make this decision and shift his career, he shares how his career goals have changed over the years, what autonomy means to him, and why it is important. We wrap up by discussing mistakes that therapists often make in this career change and the drawbacks to leaving a traditional career in mental health.

Corey's Website

You’ll Learn:

• Corey’s career goals back in grad school—and how they have changed
• Understanding autonomy, freedom, and why these are Corey’s top priorities
• Corey’s realizations about therapy, wellness, and burnout
• Considerations in making the shift to entrepreneurship
• The biggest mistake people make in turning from therapy to coaching
• The difference in coaching as a much more solo-based endeavor than therapy
• Corey’s advice to a therapist considering becoming a coach
• The distinction between the roles of therapist and coach—and how Corey navigates “the line”

Resources:

Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Upheal!

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

Selling the Couch Newsletter

Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

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I want to take this opportunity to talk about a big decision we made recently to shut down and archive our 10,000-member STC Facebook group. In this session, I intend to pull back the curtain and give an authentic glimpse into the thought process and motives behind this move. In early August, about a month ago, we made this decision concerning our Facebook group that has been in existence since 2015. I never expected the group to grow as it did, and it required a great deal of time and energy to maintain the group at a high level of engagement. The reality is that decisions like this are multi-layered and complex.

Join me in this episode as I discuss the factors in this decision.

You’ll Learn:

The six major considerations in making this decision:

• The impending season of caregiving for aging parents and the role of business in my family life
• My original goal for STC and my changing definition of success (“Do I want the successful version of this?”)
• The sustainable cadence and level of social engagement I’ve found with the STC podcast, YouTube, and the STC newsletter
• Managing a large Facebook community takes a lot of emotional bandwidth and leadership.
• The realization that I can’t be everywhere on social media and need to “do less but in a better way”
• My manageable strategy and goals for social media posts on discovery platforms and relationship-deepening platforms

I’m still alive, well, and active on social media! Please find me on YouTube and LinkedIn!

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more!

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit for Therapists at https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit.

Mentioned in this episode:

Selling the Couch Newsletter

Our newsletter is absolutely FREE! Join us for tips, the latest podcast, and more at sellingthecouch.com/newsletter.

Try Upheal!

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy NotesGo to sellingthecouch.com/upheal - Use code COUCH to get 50% off Upheal for the first 3 months.

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Today’s session is all about rebranding. We are taking a behind-the-scenes look at how different circumstances might affect the business you’ve established and force you to rebrand. Should you view this kind of pivot as a failure? Absolutely not! Let’s explore this topic together.

Our Featured Guest

Kevon Cheung

Kevon Cheung is the founder and head teacher at Small School. He was a previous guest on the podcast several years ago, and I’ve taken his Build in Public Mastery Course to help overcome my fears about posting on social media. I learned a lot of helpful information about creating effective posts on LinkedIn, YouTube, and the STC podcast. Kevon’s wisdom and practical knowledge have helped me lean into vulnerability in many areas. In light of his rebranding from Public Lab to Small School, Kevon shares the pain and difficulties in business building and rebranding, why he felt the need to rebrand, and what he teaches in his online “small courses.” He also explains where he sees course creators stumbling the most.

Small School

You’ll Learn:

• The painful parts of Kevon’s rebranding process (Changing your identity and “rebuilding what you’re known for”)
• Kevon’s thoughts about working through the inevitable feelings of failure when a change became necessary (How to reframe your mindset about a pivot)
• The biggest mistake course creators make
• Kevon’s #1 piece of advice for entrepreneurs and course creators
• Kevon’s reasoning behind his “all in” attitude about online courses
• Knowing when to add a course as a new offering (Have you validated your expertise with your audience?)
• Where course creators stumble the most–and why the goal is to create an experience that connects, surprises, and delights
• Kevon’s perspective on what a “small course” is

Resources:

Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants). Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop.

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Upheal!

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy Notessellingthecouch.com/upheal - Couch25 for 25% for the first 2 months

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Today’s session covers the unusual topic of securing contracts from different agencies for mental health services. This aspect of therapy work is not what we normally think about as clinicians, but the connection between private practice and federal funding for programs that can be a wonderful niche. Whether you’ve ever thought about this topic or this is brand new to you, today’s conversation will be food for thought about opening new doors and opportunities in the therapy world. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Ajita Robinson

Dr. Ajita Robinson is a dear friend, a highly respected colleague, and a sister in the faith. She has secured many millions in government contracts both for her private practice and in coaching other clinicians to do the same. In sharing her wealth of knowledge today, Ajita explains how to build relationships with government agencies and the top three things she looks for in available contracts. She shares the biggest mistakes our colleagues make in securing contracts and her unusual perspective on contracts that appear to already be given out. We wrap up our discussion with a transparent look at how Ajita’s strong faith influences her work and impacts the contracts she pursues.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• How working in marginalized communities led Ajita to pursue contracts with local and federal governments–and solved a problem she was passionate about
• How Ajita leveraged what she knew firsthand about social programs, combined with her research skills, to access available systems
• Where a clinician should begin in forming connections and relationships that lead to government funding opportunities
• How state-level certifications position a clinician for government contracts and can assist in the corporate contracting market
• Why the biggest barrier to securing government contracts is mismanaging money and not having your books in order
• What business insurance is required to become a government subcontractor
• The top three things Ajita considers with any contract opportunity: the scope of work, payable terms, and whether the contract is renewable or not
• How Ajita has been able to strategically position herself to recover contracts when they have fallen through for others
• The biggest mistakes our colleagues make around securing government contracts: they think they aren’t qualified to pursue them, they aren’t open to partnering with others, and they get stuck in DIY-mode
• How Ajita’s Christian faith aligns with the contracts she pursues, how she operates as a therapist, and how she functions as a Black, female business owner
• An overview of The Purposeful and Profitable Therapist Summit, an annual conference focused on diversifying income scheduled for July (2024) in Washington, DC

Resources:

Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Try Upheal!

Try Upheal Secure AI Therapy Notessellingthecouch.com/upheal - Couch25 for 25% for the first 2 months

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As I’ve learned and grown as an entrepreneur, I have tried to study and learn from those who are further along on the journey. I’ve come to understand that I can learn as much from their hard lessons and challenges as I can from their successes. Today’s session is based on a podcast interview I listened to a couple of months ago. It featured Ali Abdaal and Sahil Bloom, two online creators who have built 7-figure businesses and audiences of over 6 million followers. In their insightful interview done in two parts, they talked a lot about life and business; I’m sharing seven lessons I picked up from them that I’m implementing in my business and personal life.

You’ll Learn:

• 7 Lessons I Learned from Ali and Sahil:
• Change the wealth scoreboard.
• Don’t define self-worth based on net worth.
• A new definition of success bases “wealth” on health, relationships, and the time I have for the things I enjoy.
• Set daily non-negotiables.
• Live with intention by identifying 3-5 things that must happen each day for me to be at my best.
• Friends over followers
• The quality of my relationships greatly impacts my health.
• Schedule time to connect with genuine friends.
• More growth equals more haters.
• Sharing my message attracts people with a lot of pain, so I should default to empathy.
• Don’t be a slave to social media.
• Be careful about posting pictures of kids and sharing revenue numbers.
• This is difficult to navigate while still establishing credibility and the human connection that people crave.
• Build micro-businesses.
• These can generate cash flow with minimal involvement.
• An example: having an in-house agency along with doing a podcast.
• Connection over mass content
• With AI, content is easier than ever to create, but connection and authenticity help others know, like, and trust me.

Resources:

Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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Today’s session covers a topic that many clinicians are pondering. Many, like me, are having conversations with themselves in their heads about the available opportunities and the most efficient and ethical ways not to be left behind as technology presents new options in our field. The issue is how we can navigate the world of mental health tech startups that are available to join us to support our good work. Examples of what these startups provide are electronic health records, website design, marketing, and more. The truth is that the pandemic changed everything and catapulted the tech startup world into the range of billions of dollars. Don’t miss my enlightening conversation with today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Michael Fulwiler

Michael Fulwiler is Head of Brand Marketing at Heard, a company that assists therapists with bookkeeping and financial needs. I’ve come to rely on Mike’s expertise as a good friend as I navigate the aspects of STC, trying to be a protector of our field while staying in alignment with my values. In this session, Mike and I discuss the mindblowing numbers around the multitude of mental health tech startups and how clinicians can be informed about which ones are most likely to succeed or fail. We also discuss the vitally important topic of client data privacy and the top three considerations we should have before signing up for a product or service.

Heard Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to view tech startups in the mental health industry in terms of “headwind” and “tailwind” tendencies since the COVID-19 pandemic
• What the data shows about tech startups: 90% will fail!
• Why the big risk also comes with big opportunities in the startup world
• What happens when a clinician contracts with a mental health tech startup
• Why client data privacy is a valid concern when working with a tech startup (Hear Mike’s advice about watching out for red flags!)
• Top three considerations for a therapist about a tech startup:
• How they handle the data
• Whether or not there is a mental health professional on their team who helps with decisions and development
• How compensation for therapists is structured
• Mike’s advice about doing your due diligence when contacted by a tech startup
• An overview of Mike’s work and mission at Heard and what they provide for therapists

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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To keep you informed, this will be the last session before I take a summer break. Along with taking time for much-anticipated rest, I’ll be busy with my family and many STC-related projects! STC will still be here, though, as we run replays of our best episodes for you during this time. I look forward to returning in a few weeks with another great season of podcast sessions for you!

As I prepare to see clients very soon in my return to private practice, I’ve been given unique opportunities to do two talks related to mental health for folks near my childhood home of Dallas, Texas. Through a childhood friend, I became connected to a nonprofit there and was asked to share my personal experience with mental health. As a high-achiever, I grew up as a South Asian kid in the US, struggling with anxiety and depression. It was REAL and led me to see a psychologist, prompting my love for psychology and changing the course of my life. I shared my story with parents of high-achieving kids through this nonprofit and led a Q & A session with them; it was truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I was subsequently asked to do a second talk with another organization on a similar topic, focusing on risk factors for kids/teens growing up in hyper-competitive public and private schools. These kids are in what I call “the gilded pressure cooker,” feeling enormous pressure to achieve almost impossible feats. In today’s session, I want to share the three biggest lessons I’ve learned as a result of these unexpected opportunities to talk about the intersection of my experiences, passions, and callings.

You’ll Learn:

• My three biggest takeaways after doing these talks:
• Leaning into social media platforms, podcasting, and teaching workshops has helped me refine my speaking skills and learn to enjoy public speaking. (I’ve learned to silence my ever-present inner critic!)
• Doing talks like these takes a LOT of work and planning. (These were pro bono talks, but I will charge a fee in the future because of the multiple hours required. I don’t want to focus on revenue but on reach)
• For every talk I do in the future, I will capture the email addresses of the audience members to expand my community. (Adding people to your email list takes them from a “rented” audience on social media to an “owned” audience.)
• My thoughts and plans for the future in creating community, products, and services for this niche of families of high-achievers
• This is a new area for me, but I would love to connect with more groups and organizations around this topic of high-achieving kids and their parents. If you have a contact for me, please email me!

Resources:

Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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More is not always better. We often find that what we are chasing in our pursuit of success is not what we thought it was. Entrepreneurship for private practice clinicians naturally attracts many high achievers and recovering perfectionists, so we need to take a pause and periodically reassess and redefine what success looks like. Join us for a closer look at this important topic!

Our Featured Guest

Jeanetta Garrison, LCSW

Jeanetta Garrison is an anxiety therapist in private practice in Charlotte, NC. She is the perfect person to share insights into today’s topic. In this episode, Jeanetta shares a personal story about what she learned about money during her childhood, along with how we navigate our aspirations and what we go after to achieve success. We wrap up with a discussion of knowing what is “enough” and being cautious about who we follow after as mentors and examples.

Crown Counseling & Consulting

You’ll Learn:

• Common characteristics of entrepreneurs in private practice
• Jeanetta’s family story of how she learned about money from her upbringing
• Having big hearts of service sets us up to allow boundaries to be crossed
• The need for clarity in communication with clients about cancellations and no-shows
• Chasing the proverbial “carrot” to reach success
• Jeanetta’s advice: “Remember your WHY and center your head, heart, and spirit around it.”
• Think about your success in terms of what you are sacrificing for it!
• Navigating the ebbs and flows that are inherent in entrepreneurship
• How Jeanetta grounds herself with what is “enough” for her in her business
• Thinking about money in terms of what it symbolizes to us (“All money is not good money.”)

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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One of the most common questions I’m asked is about the gear needed to begin podcasting. I will honestly admit that it’s a difficult decision when you’re just starting because you want reliable equipment that does a great job, but you are also hesitant to break the bank for it. As you progress, several factors complicate the choices of gear, such as how you conduct guest interviews and whether you have a co-host. In today’s session, I’m walking you through four common podcasting scenarios and the gear I recommend for each. All of this information is compiled in the Buying Guide found inside our Healthcasters course.

You’ll Learn:

• My gear setup as I started the STC podcast in 2015 with a teeny, tiny budget
• My advice for beginning podcasters: “Don’t go out and purchase all the gear I mention, but go with the basics as you focus on building and honing your storytelling and interviewing skills.”
• Four podcasting scenarios and the recommended equipment:
• 1- A single host with solo episodes and guest interviews via the Internet.
• I recommend the Samsung Q2U dynamic mic, Koolertron mic shock mount, OnStage foam windscreen, pop filter, mic stand, and Rode PSA mic arm.
• 2- A single host who interviews guests in person.
• In addition to the basic equipment in Scenario #1, I recommend a 2-3 camera set-up (very expensive!), Calendly to coordinate interviews, 2 tabletop stands/mic arms, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for recording, and XLR cables.
• 3- Co-hosts who connect and interview guests via the Internet.
• I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host, along with a recording platform, like Zoom or Ecamm Live.
• 4- Co-hosts who get together in-person to interview guests in person. This is a dream set-up, but it is very expensive and complicated.
• I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host and guest (Yes, that is at least three of everything!), along with the Rodecaster Pro (the Rodecaster Pro II or Pro Mini), 32 GB SD card, and XLR cables.
• My advice: “Start with a lean setup. My current gear costs around $5000, but I didn’t upgrade for several years when I started out.”
• Check out the free workshop, Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business.

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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If you’ve ever thought about writing a book, you’ve realized that the process is intimidating. Just knowing where to begin and how to proceed pose big challenges. We are tackling this topic with today’s guest and uncovering the things nobody tells you about writing a book. Join us to get real and learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Raj Lulla

Raj Lulla is a StoryBrand Certified designer and strategist. He and his partner, Ben Lueders, are the co-owners of Fruitful Design & Strategy, where they “create and grow compelling brands.” Raj has spent the last few years writing a book called The Caring House, and he joins us to dive deeper into the book-writing process. He shares why he chose to write a fiction book, how he approached the publishing aspect, and the financial outlay for a project like this. We wrap up with Raj’s perspective on the things no one tells you about marketing a book and Raj’s best tips for anyone who wants to write a book.

Fruitful Design and Raj Lulla

You’ll Learn:

• Raj’s choice: fiction vs. nonfiction?
• Big questions to confront around the grief-processing journey
• Raj’s idea for The Caring Houseas part of his personal healing process
• Writing to answer the question, “What is this book for?”
• Narrowing your purpose to the “most important thing”
• Understanding the publishing dilemma: a traditional publisher, indie/hybrid publishing, or self-publishing?
• Differences in the pitching/publishing process between a fiction vs. nonfiction book
• Financial considerations in the book-writing process
• Details about the “print-on-demand” publishing option and the hard work required to market a self-published book
• Raj’s advice to aspiring writers

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out PsycCareers!

If you’re a psychology professional who is ready to take the next step in their career, check out PsycCareers, the American Psychological Association Services, Inc’s career center. PsycCareers is home to over 400 open positions tailored specifically for psychology professionals. Start your journey today by exploring opportunities that inspire and challenge you at sellingthecouch.com/apa.

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Podcast sponsorship is often seen as the “golden goose” of podcasting. We started working with sponsors on STC a few years ago, and they have generated over $95k to this point. However, I’ve learned that relying solely on sponsorships is not the wisest stance because your success rides the ebbs and flows of another company’s marketing budget. I’m very grateful for the sponsors who have worked with us, but I don’t want to depend on them for the main source of income for STC. Today, I’m sharing three ways you can make money from your podcast from Day One, without having to depend on securing sponsors down the road. Join me for a closer look!

You’ll Learn:

• The increasing responsibility I feel to be a good steward in today’s podcasting environment
• Three ways to make money from your podcast from Day One:
• One-on-one work–I share how to use analytics to pinpoint your niche and impact to specialize your focus and offerings. (I use and recommend Fathom Analytics.)
• Scalable work–This includes things you can continue to do for the next 8-10 years, like paid speaking engagements, coaching groups, therapy groups, writing books, and establishing a “private podcast” feed.
• Online courses–The time and energy investment comes on the front end, but they become an asset into which you can invite others.
• It’s best to view podcast sponsorship as “the cherry on the top” that may come to you, but not as the financial foundation to depend on from month to month.
• Our free podcasting workshop can help you launch your podcast!

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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Hosting a retreat sounds like a great idea, right? When you stop and think about all the logistical and financial details, that’s when many fears and questions come to the surface. Perhaps the biggest fear is whether enough people will pay for your retreat to make it a success. Join us as we dive into this topic with today’s expert guest!

Our Featured Guest

Megan Gunnell

In addition to being a business owner, author, and triathlete, Megan Gunnell is a Clinical Social Worker who has been hosting 1-day retreats, workshops and weekend/week long retreats for 20+ years.

She hosted her first one at a local community center–complete with harp music! From these humble beginnings, Megan’s retreats have evolved into weekend retreats and international retreats that started in 2012 in Costa Rica, Italy, France, and other places around the globe.

In this episode, we discuss why therapists find it so appealing to consider hosting a retreat, along with common fears related to the risk of hosting your first retreat.

Megan explains how to find suitable venues that offer 100% refund options and points out the important legal and logistical considerations. We wrap up our conversation by discussing retreat marketing, which is vital to the success of your retreat. Megan shares what she has learned along her journey as a retreat host.

Megan's Website and Thriving Therapists ® Facebook Group

You’ll Learn:

• Megan’s inspiration to expand beyond private practice into hosting retreats
• Megan’s #1 lesson learned: Start small and grow later.
• The attraction of retreats? They are transformative spaces for people to pull away from everyday life and reinvigorate their passion and purpose.
• The major differences between private practice work and group retreats as income sources
• Legal considerations around liability, disclaimers, emergencies, etc.
• Megan’s low-risk tips for hosting retreats:
• Start small with a test audience and test venue with a half-day or one-day retreat.
• Look for 100% refundable venues through a certain date prior to the event.
• Do the math and “beta-test” your audience.
• Making your retreat a profitable venture
• Finding 100% fully refundable venues—and why international properties are desirable
• Megan’s top marketing strategies for retreats:
• Be very clear about your intentions. (Who is this for, and what is the purpose?)
• Think about your runway. (Make sure it is long enough to “land the plane.”)
• Build a warm excitement with your audience around the date for open registration.
• Handling the cancellation or rebooking of your retreat with flexibility and transparency

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast? Check out our free podcasting workshop

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out PsycCareers!

If you’re a psychology professional who is ready to take the next step in their career, check out PsycCareers, the American Psychological Association Services, Inc’s career center. PsycCareers is home to over 400 open positions tailored specifically for psychology professionals. Start your journey today by exploring opportunities that inspire and challenge you at sellingthecouch.com/apa.

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About a month ago, I shared that I’ve decided to go into private practice, in addition to keeping STC running and growing. There are three main reasons for this decision: I miss the therapy room, a clinical arm to my business is a wise move, and I’ll be able to more strategically diversify my income. I think this venture will offer new opportunities for the future that are beneficial in many ways, but, to be honest, this decision has brought me some anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

I’m addressing these issues with my wonderful therapist, and I’m doing all the things that we therapists tell our clients to do. My worries and fears are probably normal for someone who feels the pressure to be successful in multiple businesses and endeavors. In today’s solo session, I’m sharing my insights on finding my private practice niche. Join me for a closer look!

You’ll Learn:

• What is a niche, and how did I choose my niche for private practice? Who do I want to work with?
• My top four insights on finding my private practice niche:
• Niches are living and breathing things that evolve over time.
• Family and friends will always recommend people outside your niche.
• There is a relational component to marketing beyond your website.
• Even though my niche focuses on tech and business founders, working within other branches of these niches will add diversity to my work. (These last two insights come from my friends, Raj Lulla and Ben Lueders, the founders of Fruitful Design.)

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out PsycCareers!

If you’re a psychology professional who is ready to take the next step in their career, check out PsycCareers, the American Psychological Association Services, Inc’s career center. PsycCareers is home to over 400 open positions tailored specifically for psychology professionals. Start your journey today by exploring opportunities that inspire and challenge you at sellingthecouch.com/apa.

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Today’s session is all about brainspotting, a powerful and fascinating psychotherapy technique that I have personally found to be helpful. Specifically, we discuss the technique as it is used to help performance athletes. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Thad Frye, LCSW

Thad Frye is a licensed clinical social worker in Boulder, CO. As a certified brainspotting consultant, Thad has gone through multiple levels of training in this therapy technique. In our conversation, Thad explains why he was motivated to pursue training in brainspotting after previously focusing his work with families through hospice care and end-of-life journeys. He describes the technical aspects of brainspotting and how he uses it in his work with athletes, specifically in those with the “yips,” a puzzling phenomenon of the loss of an ability.

Thad Frye Counseling and Brainspotting Coaching for Athletes

You’ll Learn:

• Why Thad pursued training in brainspotting in 2016 as a way to serve families better
• How Thad experienced the somatic connection with his personal grief in new and real ways during his brainspotting training
• How brainspotting differs from EMDR
• Technical aspects of “inside window” and “outside window” reflexes within brainspotting
• How different clients might respond during a brainspotting session
• How training phases are structured in the brainspotting certification process
• Why Thad chose to use brainspotting with performance athletes
• How Thad uses brainspotting with athletes who experience muscle-guarding and the “yips”

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out PsycCareers!

If you’re a psychology professional who is ready to take the next step in their career, check out PsycCareers, the American Psychological Association Services, Inc’s career center. PsycCareers is home to over 400 open positions tailored specifically for psychology professionals. Start your journey today by exploring opportunities that inspire and challenge you at sellingthecouch.com/apa.

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Today’s session covers a topic that many clinicians are pondering. Many, like me, are having conversations with themselves in their heads about the available opportunities and the most efficient and ethical ways not to be left behind as technology presents new options in our field. The issue is how we can navigate the world of mental health tech startups that are available to join us to support our good work. Examples of what these startups provide are electronic health records, website design, marketing, and more. The truth is that the pandemic changed everything and catapulted the tech startup world into the range of billions of dollars. Don’t miss my enlightening conversation with today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Michael Fulwiler

Michael Fulwiler is Head of Brand Marketing at Heard, a company that assists therapists with bookkeeping and financial needs. I’ve come to rely on Mike’s expertise as a good friend as I navigate the aspects of STC, trying to be a protector of our field while staying in alignment with my values. In this session, Mike and I discuss the mindblowing numbers around the multitude of mental health tech startups and how clinicians can be informed about which ones are most likely to succeed or fail. We also discuss the vitally important topic of client data privacy and the top three considerations we should have before signing up for a product or service.

Heard Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to view tech startups in the mental health industry in terms of “headwind” and “tailwind” tendencies since the COVID-19 pandemic
• What the data shows about tech startups: 90% will fail!
• Why the big risk also comes with big opportunities in the startup world
• What happens when a clinician contracts with a mental health tech startup
• Why client data privacy is a valid concern when working with a tech startup (Hear Mike’s advice about watching out for red flags!)
• Top three considerations for a therapist about a tech startup:
• How they handle the data
• Whether or not there is a mental health professional on their team who helps with decisions and development
• How compensation for therapists is structured
• Mike’s advice about doing your due diligence when contacted by a tech startup
• An overview of Mike’s work and mission at Heard and what they provide for therapists

Resources:

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.

But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.

Simplified SEO Consulting is a team of mental health professionals who genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.

Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo.

**Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any online, DIY SEO courses, and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out PsycCareers!

If you’re a psychology professional who is ready to take the next step in their career, check out PsycCareers, the American Psychological Association Services, Inc’s career center. PsycCareers is home to over 400 open positions tailored specifically for psychology professionals. Start your journey today by exploring opportunities that inspire and challenge you at sellingthecouch.com/apa.

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Many of us have thought about creating continuing education courses and wondered how the process works and what factors are involved. Who better to learn from than someone who has done this successfully? Being successful at CEU course creation takes innovation, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Join us for informative insights from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Matthew Bierds

Matt Bierds, from Duke City Counseling, is a licensed professional counselor, course creator, and professional speaker who does in-person and virtual counseling and LPC supervision in Texas and New Mexico. As far back as ten years ago, Matt realized that the world of online education was expanding, and he knew there were interesting opportunities for LPCs in the area of online courses. After jumping into this arena, Matt went through a “failing forward” phase before making a few tweaks and creating a course for LPC supervisors. In today’s session, Matt shares the lessons learned along his fascinating journey and the mistakes and successes that have brought him to where he is today.

Matt's Website

You’ll Learn:

• Matt’s wisdom: “I learned the hard way that selling general continuing education courses online is pointless and a waste of time and money.”
• The value in pivoting and niching down when something isn’t working
• Discovering the sweet spot: How Matt created a course designed for a specific person in a specific situation
• Course creation is successful when you see the need and solve the pain point.
• Matt’s path to building trust and cultivating repeat customers
• The progression and development of Matt’s 40-hour course and 6-hour refresher courses
• The challenges in maintaining compliance and navigating changes in licensing requirements
• Course creation challenges: creating content and incorporating more video interaction and student engagement
• Matt’s biggest mistakes and successes in marketing his courses

Resources:

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.

But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.

Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo.

**Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any online, DIY SEO courses, and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Check Out PsycCareers!

If you’re a psychology professional who is ready to take the next step in their career, check out PsycCareers, the American Psychological Association Services, Inc’s career center. PsycCareers is home to over 400 open positions tailored specifically for psychology professionals. Start your journey today by exploring opportunities that inspire and challenge you at sellingthecouch.com/apa.

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To keep you informed, this will be the last session before I take a summer break. Along with taking time for much-anticipated rest, I’ll be busy with my family and many STC-related projects! STC will still be here, though, as we run replays of our best episodes for you during this time. I look forward to returning in a few weeks with another great season of podcast sessions for you!

As I prepare to see clients very soon in my return to private practice, I’ve been given unique opportunities to do two talks related to mental health for folks near my childhood home of Dallas, Texas. Through a childhood friend, I became connected to a nonprofit there and was asked to share my personal experience with mental health. As a high-achiever, I grew up as a South Asian kid in the US, struggling with anxiety and depression. It was REAL and led me to see a psychologist, prompting my love for psychology and changing the course of my life. I shared my story with parents of high-achieving kids through this nonprofit and led a Q & A session with them; it was truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life. I was subsequently asked to do a second talk with another organization on a similar topic, focusing on risk factors for kids/teens growing up in hyper-competitive public and private schools. These kids are in what I call “the gilded pressure cooker,” feeling enormous pressure to achieve almost impossible feats. In today’s session, I want to share the three biggest lessons I’ve learned as a result of these unexpected opportunities to talk about the intersection of my experiences, passions, and callings.

You’ll Learn:

• My three biggest takeaways after doing these talks:
• Leaning into social media platforms, podcasting, and teaching workshops has helped me refine my speaking skills and learn to enjoy public speaking. (I’ve learned to silence my ever-present inner critic!)
• Doing talks like these takes a LOT of work and planning. (These were pro bono talks, but I will charge a fee in the future because of the multiple hours required. I don’t want to focus on revenue but on reach)
• For every talk I do in the future, I will capture the email addresses of the audience members to expand my community. (Adding people to your email list takes them from a “rented” audience on social media to an “owned” audience.)
• My thoughts and plans for the future in creating community, products, and services for this niche of families of high-achievers
• This is a new area for me, but I would love to connect with more groups and organizations around this topic of high-achieving kids and their parents. If you have a contact for me, please email me!

Resources:

Mentioned in this session: Sign up for the newsletter for high-achievers!

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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As I’m moving back into clinical work, I’m compelled to do more clinical-related podcasts. Today’s session fits that bill as it delves into psychedelic psychotherapy, an area of clinical work that is exploding with interesting potential. There is a lot to navigate within this topic; join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Keith Kurlander

Keith Kurlander is the co-founder of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute (IPI) and the co-host of the Higher Practice Podcast. The IPI is the largest training provider of clinicians in psychedelic psychotherapy. In this conversation, we explore psychedelic psychiatry, the drugs available for use, and the causes of the recent surge in this field. We also discuss the practical cautions and considerations for therapists.

Keith's Website and The Integrative Psychiatry Institute

You’ll Learn:

• A simple definition that helps us understand psychedelic psychotherapy
• Causes of the recent surge of interest in this field and a briefing on the history and current research
• The current mental health crisis is changing the landscape of mental health care!
• Right now is an opportune time for therapists to get on board with psychedelic psychotherapy and get their training.
• The differences between traditional talk therapy modalities and psychedelic psychotherapy
• A glimpse into the often uncomfortable intensity of a psychedelic psychotherapy session
• The logistics of a psychedelic psychotherapy session around the length of sessions and payment/insurance parameters
• Common psychedelic psychotherapy medications: ketamine, psilocybin, and LSD
• The type of client who is well-suited for psychedelic psychotherapy

Resources

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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More is not always better. We often find that what we are chasing in our pursuit of success is not what we thought it was. Entrepreneurship for private practice clinicians naturally attracts many high achievers and recovering perfectionists, so we need to take a pause and periodically reassess and redefine what success looks like. Join us for a closer look at this important topic!

Our Featured Guest

Jeanetta Garrison, LCSW

Jeanetta Garrison is an anxiety therapist in private practice in Charlotte, NC. She is the perfect person to share insights into today’s topic. In this episode, Jeanetta shares a personal story about what she learned about money during her childhood, along with how we navigate our aspirations and what we go after to achieve success. We wrap up with a discussion of knowing what is “enough” and being cautious about who we follow after as mentors and examples.

Crown Counseling & Consulting

You’ll Learn:

• Common characteristics of entrepreneurs in private practice
• Jeanetta’s family story of how she learned about money from her upbringing
• Having big hearts of service sets us up to allow boundaries to be crossed
• The need for clarity in communication with clients about cancellations and no-shows
• Chasing the proverbial “carrot” to reach success
• Jeanetta’s advice: “Remember your WHY and center your head, heart, and spirit around it.”
• Think about your success in terms of what you are sacrificing for it!
• Navigating the ebbs and flows that are inherent in entrepreneurship
• How Jeanetta grounds herself with what is “enough” for her in her business
• Thinking about money in terms of what it symbolizes to us (“All money is not good money.”)

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Thrizer

Thrizer can help private pay therapists transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience to help you attract and retain private pay clients! First, Thrizer can help you instantly verify your client's out-of-network benefits ahead of their first session using Thrizer's free Instant Benefits Calculator. Then, just by charging clients via Thrizer's payment platform, you can automatically submit claims for them and even let your clients just pay their co-insurance for sessions (similar to in-network copays) to help them afford therapy upfront and skip the reimbursement wait post-deductible. Thrizer covers the rest of your fees upfront and waits for reimbursement on their behalf! They also have a Superbill Uploads feature if you'd like to instead offer your clients a resource to manage their own superbills. They manage all claims end-to-end so you or your clients don't need to deal with any of the insurance stress. Please visit the Thrizer link below and enter the promo code “STC” and receive waived fees for your first $2500 in charges.

Learn More About Thrizer

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One of the most common questions I’m asked is about the gear needed to begin podcasting. I will honestly admit that it’s a difficult decision when you’re just starting because you want reliable equipment that does a great job, but you are also hesitant to break the bank for it. As you progress, several factors complicate the choices of gear, such as how you conduct guest interviews and whether you have a co-host. In today’s session, I’m walking you through four common podcasting scenarios and the gear I recommend for each. All of this information is compiled in the Buying Guide found inside our Healthcasters course.

You’ll Learn:

• My gear setup as I started the STC podcast in 2015 with a teeny, tiny budget
• My advice for beginning podcasters: “Don’t go out and purchase all the gear I mention, but go with the basics as you focus on building and honing your storytelling and interviewing skills.”
• Four podcasting scenarios and the recommended equipment:
• 1- A single host with solo episodes and guest interviews via the Internet.
• I recommend the Samsung Q2U dynamic mic, Koolertron mic shock mount, OnStage foam windscreen, pop filter, mic stand, and Rode PSA mic arm.
• 2- A single host who interviews guests in person.
• In addition to the basic equipment in Scenario #1, I recommend a 2-3 camera set-up (very expensive!), Calendly to coordinate interviews, 2 tabletop stands/mic arms, the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for recording, and XLR cables.
• 3- Co-hosts who connect and interview guests via the Internet.
• I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host, along with a recording platform, like Zoom or Ecamm Live.
• 4- Co-hosts who get together in-person to interview guests in person. This is a dream set-up, but it is very expensive and complicated.
• I recommend the basic equipment in Scenario #1 for EACH co-host and guest (Yes, that is at least three of everything!), along with the Rodecaster Pro (the Rodecaster Pro II or Pro Mini), 32 GB SD card, and XLR cables.
• My advice: “Start with a lean setup. My current gear costs around $5000, but I didn’t upgrade for several years when I started out.”
• Check out the free workshop, Using Podcasting to Grow Your Business.

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Thrizer

Thrizer can help private pay therapists transform out-of-network therapy into an in-network experience to help you attract and retain private pay clients! First, Thrizer can help you instantly verify your client's out-of-network benefits ahead of their first session using Thrizer's free Instant Benefits Calculator. Then, just by charging clients via Thrizer's payment platform, you can automatically submit claims for them and even let your clients just pay their co-insurance for sessions (similar to in-network copays) to help them afford therapy upfront and skip the reimbursement wait post-deductible. Thrizer covers the rest of your fees upfront and waits for reimbursement on their behalf! They also have a Superbill Uploads feature if you'd like to instead offer your clients a resource to manage their own superbills. They manage all claims end-to-end so you or your clients don't need to deal with any of the insurance stress. Please visit the Thrizer link below and enter the promo code “STC” and receive waived fees for your first $2500 in charges.

Learn More About Thrizer

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If you’ve ever thought about writing a book, you’ve realized that the process is intimidating. Just knowing where to begin and how to proceed pose big challenges. We are tackling this topic with today’s guest and uncovering the things nobody tells you about writing a book. Join us to get real and learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Raj Lulla

Raj Lulla is a StoryBrand Certified designer and strategist. He and his partner, Ben Lueders, are the co-owners of Fruitful Design & Strategy, where they “create and grow compelling brands.” Raj has spent the last few years writing a book called The Caring House, and he joins us to dive deeper into the book-writing process. He shares why he chose to write a fiction book, how he approached the publishing aspect, and the financial outlay for a project like this. We wrap up with Raj’s perspective on the things no one tells you about marketing a book and Raj’s best tips for anyone who wants to write a book.

Fruitful Design and Raj Lulla

You’ll Learn:

• Raj’s choice: fiction vs. nonfiction?
• Big questions to confront around the grief-processing journey
• Raj’s idea for The Caring Houseas part of his personal healing process
• Writing to answer the question, “What is this book for?”
• Narrowing your purpose to the “most important thing”
• Understanding the publishing dilemma: a traditional publisher, indie/hybrid publishing, or self-publishing?
• Differences in the pitching/publishing process between a fiction vs. nonfiction book
• Financial considerations in the book-writing process
• Details about the “print-on-demand” publishing option and the hard work required to market a self-published book
• Raj’s advice to aspiring writers

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Thrizer

Thrizer is a payment platform designed for private pay therapists, built to help clients automatically tap into their out-of-network benefits and save on therapy upfront. Thrizer can help instantly verify clients’ out-of-network benefits ahead of a client’s first session, so they get the transparency upfront on their out-of-pocket costs. When therapists charge their clients via Thrizer, an out-of-network claim is automatically submitted for them, so no need to deal with superbills. Best part? After meeting their deductible, clients have the option to just pay their co-insurance portion for sessions while Thrizer floats the rest of the therapist’s fee and waits for reimbursement on the client’s behalf, helping clients afford therapy upfront. Please visit sellingthecouch.com/thrizerand enter the promo code “STC” and receive waived fees for your first $2500 in charges.

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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Podcast sponsorship is often seen as the “golden goose” of podcasting. We started working with sponsors on STC a few years ago, and they have generated over $95k to this point. However, I’ve learned that relying solely on sponsorships is not the wisest stance because your success rides the ebbs and flows of another company’s marketing budget. I’m very grateful for the sponsors who have worked with us, but I don’t want to depend on them for the main source of income for STC. Today, I’m sharing three ways you can make money from your podcast from Day One, without having to depend on securing sponsors down the road. Join me for a closer look!

You’ll Learn:

• The increasing responsibility I feel to be a good steward in today’s podcasting environment
• Three ways to make money from your podcast from Day One:
• One-on-one work–I share how to use analytics to pinpoint your niche and impact to specialize your focus and offerings. (I use and recommend Fathom Analytics.)
• Scalable work–This includes things you can continue to do for the next 8-10 years, like paid speaking engagements, coaching groups, therapy groups, writing books, and establishing a “private podcast” feed.
• Online courses–The time and energy investment comes on the front end, but they become an asset into which you can invite others.
• It’s best to view podcast sponsorship as “the cherry on the top” that may come to you, but not as the financial foundation to depend on from month to month.
• Our free podcasting workshop can help you launch your podcast!

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast?

Check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists (and therapists turned coaches and consultants)

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

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Hosting a retreat sounds like a great idea, right? When you stop and think about all the logistical and financial details, that’s when many fears and questions come to the surface. Perhaps the biggest fear is whether enough people will pay for your retreat to make it a success. Join us as we dive into this topic with today’s expert guest!

Our Featured Guest

Megan Gunnell

In addition to being a business owner, author, and triathlete, Megan Gunnell is a Clinical Social Worker who has been hosting 1-day retreats, workshops and weekend/week long retreats for 20+ years.

She hosted her first one at a local community center–complete with harp music! From these humble beginnings, Megan’s retreats have evolved into weekend retreats and international retreats that started in 2012 in Costa Rica, Italy, France, and other places around the globe.

In this episode, we discuss why therapists find it so appealing to consider hosting a retreat, along with common fears related to the risk of hosting your first retreat.

Megan explains how to find suitable venues that offer 100% refund options and points out the important legal and logistical considerations. We wrap up our conversation by discussing retreat marketing, which is vital to the success of your retreat. Megan shares what she has learned along her journey as a retreat host.

Megan's Website and Thriving Therapists ® Facebook Group

You’ll Learn:

• Megan’s inspiration to expand beyond private practice into hosting retreats
• Megan’s #1 lesson learned: Start small and grow later.
• The attraction of retreats? They are transformative spaces for people to pull away from everyday life and reinvigorate their passion and purpose.
• The major differences between private practice work and group retreats as income sources
• Legal considerations around liability, disclaimers, emergencies, etc.
• Megan’s low-risk tips for hosting retreats:
• Start small with a test audience and test venue with a half-day or one-day retreat.
• Look for 100% refundable venues through a certain date prior to the event.
• Do the math and “beta-test” your audience.
• Making your retreat a profitable venture
• Finding 100% fully refundable venues—and why international properties are desirable
• Megan’s top marketing strategies for retreats:
• Be very clear about your intentions. (Who is this for, and what is the purpose?)
• Think about your runway. (Make sure it is long enough to “land the plane.”)
• Build a warm excitement with your audience around the date for open registration.
• Handling the cancellation or rebooking of your retreat with flexibility and transparency

Resources:

Want to launch your podcast? Check out our free podcasting workshop

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworshop

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

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About a month ago, I shared that I’ve decided to go into private practice, in addition to keeping STC running and growing. There are three main reasons for this decision: I miss the therapy room, a clinical arm to my business is a wise move, and I’ll be able to more strategically diversify my income. I think this venture will offer new opportunities for the future that are beneficial in many ways, but, to be honest, this decision has brought me some anxiety, insomnia, and depression.

I’m addressing these issues with my wonderful therapist, and I’m doing all the things that we therapists tell our clients to do. My worries and fears are probably normal for someone who feels the pressure to be successful in multiple businesses and endeavors. In today’s solo session, I’m sharing my insights on finding my private practice niche. Join me for a closer look!

You’ll Learn:

• What is a niche, and how did I choose my niche for private practice? Who do I want to work with?
• My top four insights on finding my private practice niche:
• Niches are living and breathing things that evolve over time.
• Family and friends will always recommend people outside your niche.
• There is a relational component to marketing beyond your website.
• Even though my niche focuses on tech and business founders, working within other branches of these niches will add diversity to my work. (These last two insights come from my friends, Raj Lulla and Ben Lueders, the founders of Fruitful Design.)

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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Many of us have thought about creating continuing education courses and wondered how the process works and what factors are involved. Who better to learn from than someone who has done this successfully? Being successful at CEU course creation takes innovation, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Join us for informative insights from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Matthew Bierds

Matt Bierds, from Duke City Counseling, is a licensed professional counselor, course creator, and professional speaker who does in-person and virtual counseling and LPC supervision in Texas and New Mexico. As far back as ten years ago, Matt realized that the world of online education was expanding, and he knew there were interesting opportunities for LPCs in the area of online courses. After jumping into this arena, Matt went through a “failing forward” phase before making a few tweaks and creating a course for LPC supervisors. In today’s session, Matt shares the lessons learned along his fascinating journey and the mistakes and successes that have brought him to where he is today.

Matt's Website

You’ll Learn:

• Matt’s wisdom: “I learned the hard way that selling general continuing education courses online is pointless and a waste of time and money.”
• The value in pivoting and niching down when something isn’t working
• Discovering the sweet spot: How Matt created a course designed for a specific person in a specific situation
• Course creation is successful when you see the need and solve the pain point.
• Matt’s path to building trust and cultivating repeat customers
• The progression and development of Matt’s 40-hour course and 6-hour refresher courses
• The challenges in maintaining compliance and navigating changes in licensing requirements
• Course creation challenges: creating content and incorporating more video interaction and student engagement
• Matt’s biggest mistakes and successes in marketing his courses

Resources:

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.

But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.

Simplified SEO Consulting is a team of mental health professionals who genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.

Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo.

**Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any online, DIY SEO courses, and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

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If you’ve had a standoff with perfectionism in starting something new, you’ll want to join us for this coaching call in today’s session. Like most clinicians who are branching out with an online course, my guest is struggling with her fears about this new endeavor and whether she will get it right. Join us to hear the conversation.

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call

Katie Lear, LCMHC, RPT, RDT

Katie Lear is a therapist in solo private practice near Charlotte, NC. She was part of the Online Course School Live Cohort, and she’s part of the Online Course School Mastermind this year. She is preparing for the beta group launch of her course, and her next step will be to record the digital version. This process gives a chance to collect feedback from beta students on the lessons and modules before creating the digital version. Join us for this open and honest conversation around fear and perfectionism.

Katie's Website

You’ll Learn:

• A look at how Katie arrived at her private practice niche working with preteens and tweens around anxiety and OCD symptoms
• Why Katie decided to jump into the online course world
• How an online course income stream helps clinicians build a balanced life outside their career, have more time and capacity for family, and utilize another way to reach clients
• The starting point for content in Katie’s course: teaching about coping skills
• How Katie is looking to incorporate a playful element into her course
• How Katie is dealing with “blank-page syndrome” in creating her course slides
• Tips for Katie in distilling and refining the content for her course
• Why heart and intent matter more in an online course than “Hollywood-level” production
• Why there is great value in teaching with the structure of three tips, three steps, and common mistakes

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

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Welcome to a brand new season of Selling the Couch! After an extended sabbatical of several months, it’s good to be back on STC with new, exciting shows. Today’s topic is one that we have all contemplated to some degree. I imagine that many coffee shop conversations and therapy sessions have included discussions around how we think about work and integrate our work into our post-pandemic lives. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dan Cumberland

Dan Cumberland is a creative, catalyst, and collaborator at The Meaning Movement. He created this blog and community to help people pursue a deeper meaning in what they do beyond simply earning a paycheck. From his personal experience, he knows what it’s like to sacrifice too much for work and face burnout and hopelessness. He is intensely passionate about helping others wrestle with the big questions around work, meaning, and purpose. In this conversation, Dan inspires us to find meaning without letting work become our identity, along with his top tips for finding a healthy balance between work and life.

You’ll Learn:

• Why entrepreneurs are programmed to find meaning in their work through the areas of people, product, process, and profit
• Why pursuing your passion usually means sacrificing something else
• How Dan came to a watershed moment with his passion, The Meaning Movement
• Why entrepreneurship is a constant reimagining of yourself and your purpose
• Why there is never a clean line between who you are and what you do
• Dan’s top tips for finding a balance between work and life
• How to assess your happiness and satisfaction
• Info about Dan’s beta cohort assessment for finding balance in life

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Connect with Dan

Website and Burnout Assessment

Mentioned in this episode:

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One of the new things for STC this year is the incorporation of coaching calls into the podcast from time to time. Join us for a glimpse into today’s coaching call about online courses.

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call

Heather McKenzie, LCMHCS

Heather McKenzie came through Online Course School as a beta student back in the fall of 2021. Online Course School is a live, eight-week experience that takes your online course from a simple idea all the way through the development stages so that you are ready to record. Heather created a course specifically focused on anxiety that can be found at Dial Down Anxiety. Like most of us who create an online course, she faced a common struggle about how to handle marketing time and costs to promote her course. Join us to hear the coaching call!

McKenzie Counseling

You’ll Learn:

• How to handle logistical challenges in the online presentation of your course
• Why Heather’s course is an eight-week course to help people understand anxiety and DBT emotion regulation skills
• How marketing options for an online course can be overwhelming for most people
• How to pinpoint your own superpowers in teaching and the style that works best for you
• How to structure the content levels for promoting your course in six-month blocks:
• Start with webinars, both free and paid.
• Offer a downloadable guide or cheat sheet.
• Use a core blog post as a stand-alone feature that blows people away.
• Tips from Melvin about content levels:
• Offering too many things can confuse people, so stick with one core webinar.
• Less is more!
• Be thoughtful about using the words “webinar” and “workshop” so as not to intimidate people.
• Link your blog post videos to YouTube to drive more traffic back to your webinar.
• Consider that high-quality offerings through webinars, guides, and blog posts help to establish your authority as an expert and give people value that keeps them returning.
• How podcasting can help with future promotion by giving a call-to-action to your webinar
• Why you need to take notes during the first offering of your course with beta students to know what content resonates the most; that content can be used for future free webinars
• In summary, five tools to market an online course that have evergreen potential:
• Webinar (start with live ones and then transition to evergreen ones)
• Downloadable guides or cheat sheets
• Core blog post
• Select podcast episodes
• Mini-podcast

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!

➡️ Want to launch your online course?Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit ➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast?Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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Today’s show focuses on one of my favorite topics, which is personal finance. Investing can be overwhelming and very confusing. Join us to learn how anyone can approach investing with knowledge and confidence.

Our Featured Guest:

Andy Gupta

Andy Gupta and I have become good friends over the past couple of months. He is a kind and genuine person who worked for 20 years on Wall Street. He is a graduate of Harvard Business School who understands the ins and outs of investing, and he wants to make investing more approachable for average people. Andy has a particular passion for helping women understand investing, and he looks to use his wealth in ways that help others.

Andy’s 30-day investing course: Anyone Can Invest Now

Andy's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/418356686326993

Andy's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/andy-gupta

You’ll Learn:

• Andy’s background of growing up in a family without wealth in Mumbai, India, and then going to college in the US while holding multiple jobs to make ends meet
• Why Andy feels that his mission is to help others with investing so they can achieve financial security and freedom
• Why Andy’s definition of financial freedom revolves around increased time spent with his family, creating a financial safety net for them, and making a positive impact on others
• Three mistakes that the average investor makes:
• Trying to “time” the market
• “This is a fool’s errand. The difference in trying to time the market vs. staying in for the long haul is astronomical.”
• Believing that cash in the bank is safe
• You are guaranteed to lose money every year because of inflation.
• Taking on too much risk by overexposing themselves in one area
• It's best to mix asset classes to reduce your risk and potentially increase your return for the level of risk
• Andy’s tips for investing smartly:
• Have a cash reserve on hand.
• Diversity by investing in asset classes that don’t “move together.”

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

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Today’s session covers a topic that many clinicians are pondering. Many, like me, are having conversations with themselves in their heads about the available opportunities and the most efficient and ethical ways not to be left behind as technology presents new options in our field. The issue is how we can navigate the world of mental health tech startups that are available to join us to support our good work. Examples of what these startups provide are electronic health records, website design, marketing, and more. The truth is that the pandemic changed everything and catapulted the tech startup world into the range of billions of dollars. Don’t miss my enlightening conversation with today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Michael Fulwiler

Michael Fulwiler is Head of Brand Marketing at Heard, a company that assists therapists with bookkeeping and financial needs. I’ve come to rely on Mike’s expertise as a good friend as I navigate the aspects of STC, trying to be a protector of our field while staying in alignment with my values. In this session, Mike and I discuss the mindblowing numbers around the multitude of mental health tech startups and how clinicians can be informed about which ones are most likely to succeed or fail. We also discuss the vitally important topic of client data privacy and the top three considerations we should have before signing up for a product or service.

Heard Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to view tech startups in the mental health industry in terms of “headwind” and “tailwind” tendencies since the COVID-19 pandemic
• What the data shows about tech startups: 90% will fail!
• Why the big risk also comes with big opportunities in the startup world
• What happens when a clinician contracts with a mental health tech startup
• Why client data privacy is a valid concern when working with a tech startup (Hear Mike’s advice about watching out for red flags!)
• Top three considerations for a therapist about a tech startup:
• How they handle the data
• Whether or not there is a mental health professional on their team who helps with decisions and development
• How compensation for therapists is structured
• Mike’s advice about doing your due diligence when contacted by a tech startup
• An overview of Mike’s work and mission at Heard and what they provide for therapists

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo*Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any of our online, DIY SEO courses and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off of your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

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I have big news! I’m going back into private practice! Don’t worry, though, because STC remains, and I’ll be adding 1-2 days of clinical work each week. In today’s session, I’m pulling back the curtain on my thought process as I’ve pondered this decision for quite a while. Do I have all the bits and pieces organized and figured out? The answer is NO, and that’s okay. I want to give you a glimpse into the messy middle of this decision and the three main reasons I have made this choice.

You’ll Learn:

• What my life was like when STC began in 2015 when I was working in a group practice
• Why I feel a responsibility to provide mental health support in today’s world
• Three reasons I feel drawn to private practice:
• I genuinely miss clinical work.
• The mental health landscape is changing like no other due to COVID-19, AI tools, and heavily financed mental health startups.
• A “hub and spoke model” can keep things in perspective for me.
• How I’m structuring my “hub and spoke model” with a flagship offering as the “hub” and other offerings as “spokes”
• Questions that I’m thinking about and weighing in my mind about private practice:
• Is the insurance route or private pay route better?
• Do I have a niche for private practice work?
• How I’m confronting my fears about taking this new step
• The hopes and dreams I have about stepping into a new phase

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo*Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any of our online, DIY SEO courses and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off of your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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Today’s session is all about brainspotting, a powerful and fascinating psychotherapy technique that I have personally found to be helpful. Specifically, we discuss the technique as it is used to help performance athletes. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Thad Frye, LCSW

Thad Frye is a licensed clinical social worker in Boulder, CO. As a certified brainspotting consultant, Thad has gone through multiple levels of training in this therapy technique. In our conversation, Thad explains why he was motivated to pursue training in brainspotting after previously focusing his work with families through hospice care and end-of-life journeys. He describes the technical aspects of brainspotting and how he uses it in his work with athletes, specifically in those with the “yips,” a puzzling phenomenon of the loss of an ability.

Thad Frye Counseling and Brainspotting Coaching for Athletes

You’ll Learn:

• Why Thad pursued training in brainspotting in 2016 as a way to serve families better
• How Thad experienced the somatic connection with his personal grief in new and real ways during his brainspotting training
• How brainspotting differs from EMDR
• Technical aspects of “inside window” and “outside window” reflexes within brainspotting
• How different clients might respond during a brainspotting session
• How training phases are structured in the brainspotting certification process
• Why Thad chose to use brainspotting with performance athletes
• How Thad uses brainspotting with athletes who experience muscle-guarding and the “yips”

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo*Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any of our online, DIY SEO courses and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off of your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

You're Invited to Join the Mastermind!

Looking for a group of likeminded clinicians to help you grow your practice? You're in the right place. Check it out at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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As I’ve learned and grown as an entrepreneur, I have tried to study and learn from those who are further along on the journey. I’ve come to understand that I can learn as much from their hard lessons and challenges as I can from their successes. Today’s session is based on a podcast interview I listened to a couple of months ago. It featured Ali Abdaal and Sahil Bloom, two online creators who have built 7-figure businesses and audiences of over 6 million followers. In their insightful interview done in two parts, they talked a lot about life and business; I’m sharing seven lessons I picked up from them that I’m implementing in my business and personal life.

You’ll Learn:

• 7 Lessons I Learned from Ali and Sahil:
• Change the wealth scoreboard.
• Don’t define self-worth based on net worth.
• A new definition of success bases “wealth” on health, relationships, and the time I have for the things I enjoy.
• Set daily non-negotiables.
• Live with intention by identifying 3-5 things that must happen each day for me to be at my best.
• Friends over followers
• The quality of my relationships greatly impacts my health.
• Schedule time to connect with genuine friends.
• More growth equals more haters.
• Sharing my message attracts people with a lot of pain, so I should default to empathy.
• Don’t be a slave to social media.
• Be careful about posting pictures of kids and sharing revenue numbers.
• This is difficult to navigate while still establishing credibility and the human connection that people crave.
• Build micro-businesses.
• These can generate cash flow with minimal involvement.
• An example: having an in-house agency along with doing a podcast.
• Connection over mass content
• With AI, content is easier than ever to create, but connection and authenticity help others know, like, and trust me.

Resources:

Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

So you’ve probably heard that blogging is one of the best ways to attract your ideal clients as a therapist.But I know that it can be intimidating to SEO optimize your blog post so that it’s actually getting found by your current and future clients.Simplified SEO Consulting is team of mental health professionals genuinely want to help you attract more of your ideal clients using a proven on-page SEO process.Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/simplifiedseo*Use the code “MELVIN” to get 20% off any of our online, DIY SEO courses and mention Melvin during your consultation for $100 off of your onboarding fee for Done-For-You SEO services!

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Today’s session covers the unusual topic of securing contracts from different agencies for mental health services. This aspect of therapy work is not what we normally think about as clinicians, but the connection between private practice and federal funding for programs that can be a wonderful niche. Whether you’ve ever thought about this topic or this is brand new to you, today’s conversation will be food for thought about opening new doors and opportunities in the therapy world. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dr. Ajita Robinson

Dr. Ajita Robinson is a dear friend, a highly respected colleague, and a sister in the faith. She has secured many millions in government contracts both for her private practice and in coaching other clinicians to do the same. In sharing her wealth of knowledge today, Ajita explains how to build relationships with government agencies and the top three things she looks for in available contracts. She shares the biggest mistakes our colleagues make in securing contracts and her unusual perspective on contracts that appear to already be given out. We wrap up our discussion with a transparent look at how Ajita’s strong faith influences her work and impacts the contracts she pursues.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• How working in marginalized communities led Ajita to pursue contracts with local and federal governments–and solved a problem she was passionate about
• How Ajita leveraged what she knew firsthand about social programs, combined with her research skills, to access available systems
• Where a clinician should begin in forming connections and relationships that lead to government funding opportunities
• How state-level certifications position a clinician for government contracts and can assist in the corporate contracting market
• Why the biggest barrier to securing government contracts is mismanaging money and not having your books in order
• What business insurance is required to become a government subcontractor
• The top three things Ajita considers with any contract opportunity: the scope of work, payable terms, and whether the contract is renewable or not
• How Ajita has been able to strategically position herself to recover contracts when they have fallen through for others
• The biggest mistakes our colleagues make around securing government contracts: they think they aren’t qualified to pursue them, they aren’t open to partnering with others, and they get stuck in DIY-mode
• How Ajita’s Christian faith aligns with the contracts she pursues, how she operates as a therapist, and how she functions as a Black, female business owner
• An overview of The Purposeful and Profitable Therapist Summit, an annual conference focused on diversifying income scheduled for July (2024) in Washington, DC

Resources:

Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

You're Invited to Join the Mastermind!

Looking for a group of likeminded clinicians to help you grow your practice? You're in the right place. Check it out at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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If you have ever considered creating an online course, or if you are already a course creator, you have probably thought a lot about marketing that course. The challenge is how to be thoughtful and creative in marketing your course, which becomes a separate income stream for your business. Starting a podcast is one of the best ways to market your course while creating a solid, compound income stream, and we are talking strategy today as I share what I’ve learned through my experience. Join us!

You’ll Learn:

• Why starting a podcast has been one of the most rewarding personal and professional endeavors of my life
• Why podcasts are the perfect way to produce authentic, evergreen content and establish trust
• How a podcast becomes a way to avoid burnout and take self-care breaks while staying consistent with releasing and re-releasing content
• How podcasts allow dynamic ads, which are pure magic (Captivate makes it easy!) and help build your email list
• How the podcasting format allows pre-roll, mid-roll, and end-roll ads to market your courses/resources consistently
• How the “flywheel effect” serves to compound your efforts over time if you leverage your existing course students on your podcast

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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Are you using an email sequence in your practice? In today’s session, we are exploring the question of why more clinicians don’t create email sequences, which I believe is a smart and logical move. I have found that most of our STC sales come via our email list, and not through social media platforms. I’ve learned the hard lessons about this topic, so I hope this conversation will help you avoid some of my mistakes in this area. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Avivit Fisher

Avivit Fisher is the founder and owner of REdD Strategy and a marketing and business coach for therapists in private practice. Her work with therapists helps them attract their ideal clients through branding, digital marketing, and advertising. We will discuss what an email sequence is, why many clinicians aren’t creating it, and how you can repurpose existing content in your email sequence. We will cover why this tool makes sense in many ways and can be helpful to get more clients in the door.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• What an email sequence is
• How an email sequence welcomes someone to your email list and draws them into your circle
• Why more clinicians aren’t taking advantage of an email sequence
• Why your email list is a better way to build your audience–as opposed to social media platforms
• How to pick a topic for an email sequence and strategically offer a lead magnet
• Why an email sequence should be useful to your subscribers and keep their interests in mind
• Avivit’s example of her email welcome sequence
• Details about ideal email sequences for solo and group practitioners
• How to handle the fear of unsubscribers
• The top mistake therapists make in using an email sequence

Resources:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Well, meet Upheal, a new AI-powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or in

person, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates treatment plans with SMART goals included!

Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Many therapists have created online courses or have thought about creating an online course. It’s one of the best ways to increase your visibility, establish your expertise, and expand your audience and impact in the world. The course creation journey is not an easy one, and it’s full of challenges and ups and downs. Join us for a transparent look at the process from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Linda Murphy, MEd, MA, LMHC

Linda Murphy is a group practice owner in Florida, and she’s a member of the STC Online Course Mastermind group for therapists. Linda is the founder of the Banana Man Society and the Relationship and Divorce Counseling Center. She developed her idea to create a course for dealing with a difficult person because she saw that topic come up often for her clients, and she realized over time that there had to be a better way to distill and share information beyond 1:1 therapy. She created “Banana Man” as a metaphor for dealing with a difficult person–and the Banana Man Society was born. In this session, Linda gives an open, honest look at her course creation journey, along with insights into how she refined her idea. She shares tips and strategies she has learned that might be helpful to others in the course creation process.

Website

You’ll Learn:

• How to embrace the mindset of connection, support, and collaboration
• How Linda realized in her first career, as a teacher, that connection is more important than content
• How Linda developed the idea for her online course
• The origins of Banana Man as a metaphor for options in dealing with difficult people
• Why Linda created an animated video of the Banana Man story (through the STC Mastermind group)
• Linda’s best tips for others about creating a successful online course:
• Lean into who you are and be authentic.
• Market yourself and be creative with social media.
• Where Linda sees her course going in the future with a specifically targeted niche
• Linda’s thoughts about the impact and benefits of the STC Online Course Mastermind group

Resources:

Interested in becoming part of our affiliate program? Learn more at

https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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Today’s session is a conversation about how to navigate guest appearances on podcasts. Whether you have future aspirations to launch a podcast or desire to grow your visibility by appearing on podcasts, this will be a helpful session for you! Podcasting offers possibilities for interesting connections and unimaginable opportunities. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dustin Riechmann

Dustin Riechmann is a new friend with whom I connected on LinkedIn. From an engineering background, Dustin has become an internet marketing and copywriting whiz. His entire niche is focused on helping entrepreneurs pitch themselves to bigger and bigger podcasts, which is a huge accelerant to business growth. Podcasting appearances help you establish social proof and open the doors to partnerships you could never imagine. Dustin shares his background story of coming to this niche and what he has learned along the way. He gives practical insights into crafting pitches to podcasters and much more valuable information on this topic.

You’ll Learn:

• The steps Dustin took as an engineer, consultant, entrepreneur, and digital marketer before his COVID-forced entrance into the podcasting world
• Why Dustin began guesting on established podcasts instead of starting his own
• How Dustin has used his three elements of a podcast pitch (relational anchors, clear service to the audience, and a clear and friendly call to action) to an 80% success rate
• Why Dustin sees podcast guesting as a specific part of the umbrella of partnership marketing
• Dustin’s mindset shift: “No one else has to lose for me to win. We can all win together!”
• How Dustin approaches his podcast pitch with his three elements, customizing the relational anchors to connect with the host on an authentic and personal level
• An overview of Dustin’s work and the Podcast Pitch Playbook

Resources:

Connect with Melvin On LinkedIn

Want to launch your podcast soon?

Please check out our free podcasting workshop for therapists

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists:

Connect with Dustin Riechmann:

Website: Simple Success Coaching

LinkedIn

Get Dustin’s FREE Podcast Pitch Playbook!

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Today’s topic is one that many clinicians have navigated, are navigating, or will navigate in the future. It’s the idea of increasing fees with existing clients. I’ve seen this topic come up repeatedly in online groups for therapists, and I know it brings anxiety and confusion. Let’s dig into it together!

Our Featured Guests

Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer

Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer are therapists, private practice owners, and the founders of ZynnyMe, where they teach and train therapists to build valuable and gratifying businesses. Their year-long training program, Business School Bootcamp, is a super-powerful system that teaches therapists everything they wish they had learned in grad school about running a successful private practice. In this episode, Kelly and Miranda will discuss the idea that we are betraying our client if we increase fees, along with ways to work through that mindset. We will cover the nitty-gritty of how to communicate fee increases to clients with all the logistical nuances. Our conversation wraps up with simple scripts you can use during sessions to stay on track, be clear, and affirm your clients without causing feelings of abandonment.

www.zynnyme.com

Starting a Counseling Practice Podcast

You’ll Learn:

• Why the idea of increasing fees is intimidating even though many therapists are leaving a lot of money on the table
• Why increasing fees ties into mixed messages in our minds about our self-worth and value
• How the cumulative effect of a sliding scale adds up to significant amounts over time and reflects bias that we usually guard against
• How automation in today’s world allows us to avoid those difficult conversations
• Why the recommendation is to create a letter but have the conversation with the client in session; give them the letter after the conversation (or email virtual clients)
• Why the letter is a transitional object and shouldn’t make excuses for the fee increase
• Ideas for scripting the notification letter and stating the fee increase
• The need for us to be honest with our clients to be able to continue providing great care
• The misconception that schedules and fees should always stay the same; these are unrealistic expectations!
• How to present workable options to clients without feeling like you’re abandoning them
• Why clinicians have to do what it takes to care for themselves before they can care for their clients
• Highlights in the conversation with clients about increasing fees:
• Own your emotions about it.
• Let the client know the relationship with them is valuable to you.
• Check in with the client’s feelings and options moving forward.
• Why the window of notice should be long enough to prepare for termination or referral

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Have you ever considered writing a children’s book? I’ll admit that I’ve thought about it, and it might be a new endeavor in my future. Writing a children’s book takes creativity and planning, and much perseverance is required to navigate the publishing process. Join me as I talk to a longtime friend who has been through the process and published two children’s books.

Our Featured Guest

Amy Jivani

Amy is a childhood friend of mine who has become a children’s book author. Her latest book, Meera’s Flowers, tells the story of a young girl celebrating an Indian holiday while living in America. She also wrote More Than Words: A Book About Body Language, a story about body language and feelings. Amy is a former first-grade teacher who is inspired by her students and her cultural background to write children’s books with ethnically diverse characters. Amy shares with us where she gets ideas for books and how the creative process works. We also discuss the concept of self-publishing compared to the traditional publishing route. We wrap up with Amy’s insights into the hardest part about writing and releasing a book during a pandemic.

www.amyjivani.com

You’ll Learn:

• Where Amy’s inspiration came from for Meera’s Flowers
• Amy’s advice for other aspiring writers:
• Write something you can champion.
• Storyboard your ideas as you begin.
• How the traditional publishing route requires resilience and seems like a “closed club”
• Why Amy decided not to self-publish her first book
• How Amy realized that creative stories could teach and reinforce important concepts to children in more memorable ways
• How Amy gives herself creative space to think and produce rather than setting aside a disciplined time slot
• The hardest part of what Amy has accomplished: getting publishers to see the quality of what she wrote and releasing a book during a pandemic when typical book promotion is a no-go
• How Amy handles the newfound attention of being a published author with humility

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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What would it be like to own and run your own group therapy practice--including the building? And to complicate matters, what if the whole endeavor is getting off the ground during a global pandemic? It might sound crazy, but you’ll hear the details from today’s guest who is making it all happen after facing down all the obstacles. Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Karen Grayson, PhD, LPC

Dr. Karen Grayson had a vision a few years ago of owning a therapy practice building, so she followed through with the big purchase in 2018. She’s here to help us navigate through the challenges of owning a therapy practice building during a pandemic. The Center for Inner Transformation, in St. Louis, is a place where Karen combines philosophy, therapy, and spirituality on an integrated pathway to her clients’ personal and collective development, and it’s also home for the practices of three other clinicians. She shares where the idea of buying a building came from, how she went into the process, along with practical steps that she took during the pandemic. We wrap up today’s conversation with four pieces of advice that Karen would give to her younger self about this undertaking.

www.thecenterstl.com

You’ll Learn:

• How Karen began with the dream to purchase a therapy building
• How she moved from vision to implementation through finding comfort in the unknown
• How Karen’s journey unfolded from her teaching role to group therapy
• How Karen purchased her office building in 2018, dealt with two colleagues who backed out after the purchase and endured a difficult neighbor in the office park
• Why Karen learned to be gentle with herself and fierce in her purpose, staying grounded in the uncertainty
• How the drawbacks in the process led to feelings of failure and depression for Karen
• How she persevered with a deep commitment to her purpose and a willingness to fail
• How Karen learned the value in having support people in place from STC
• How the pandemic has affected Karen and her endeavors
• How word-of-mouth referrals have benefitted Karen’s business
• Why we need to know what our strengths are
• How Karen deals with her core wound of not being good enough
• How things worked out for Karen when she “let go and listened”
• Karen’s pieces of advice to her younger self about purchasing the building during a pandemic:
• Everything is an invitation for growth.
• The birthing process is always a hard thing.
• I’m not in charge of time.
• Be open to a larger container.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Today’s show is about navigating long-haul COVID symptoms and life as a private practitioner. I wanted to have a non-academic conversation about this intriguing topic from a real-life perspective. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Robert Cox, MA, LPC, NCC

Robert Cox is a private practitioner in Kentucky. He contracted COVID back in December. After a few weeks, he noticed that his symptoms improved a little but then continued. You’ll hear Robert’s story of his long-haul COVID symptoms and navigating through it as a private practitioner, especially regarding what to disclose to clients.

Tristn Jevon Center for Recovery

You’ll learn:

• What it means to have “long-haul COVID”
• How long-haul COVID symptoms can vary with dementia-like brain fog, heart problems, physical exhaustion, night sweats, etc.
• Robert’s story of contracting COVID last December from his daughter and facing moments of panic because of his asthma
• How Robert’s symptoms were complicated by the death of his son in February 2021
• How Robert learned to deal with long-haul COVID by taking more time off and learning to be more efficient, organized, and focused
• How Robert’s exhaustion and fatigue are impacting his daily life and activity level
• Why there is no standard treatment protocol for long-haul COVID
• How Robert is using meditation to cope with the daily challenges of life and work
• What Robert has learned about having limits and setting boundaries
• How Robert decided to share openly with his clients about his experience
• What Robert has learned about his resilience because of the support from his wife
• How Robert is functioning better because of the system changes he has put in place
• Why Robert’s #1 message to everyone is to get the COVID vaccine

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Today’s show is about one of my most favorite topics in the world: sleep. I’ll admit that my thinking about sleep has changed a lot over the years as I’ve learned more. Whether you’re a champion sleeper or someone who needs to pay more attention to rest, today’s show has helpful information and expert tips for you. Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Liz Slonena

Liz Slonena is a psychologist in Asheville, NC. She has expertise in sleep and insomnia, and I wanted to have her share her insights with us. Pandemic stressors and the blurred lines between work life and home life have been contributing factors to sleep problems for many therapists. We will discuss why quality sleep matters, the basics of sleep cycles, and how our hustle culture has impacted our sleep. We’ll finish up with practical tips about improving sleep.

www.drlizlistens.com

Use code #STC for premium access to Aura, an all-in-one wellness app

Find Dr. Liz’s free mindful hypnosis videos on YouTube

You’ll Learn:

• What happens during the normal sleep cycles: light, restful, deep, and REM
• How disruptions can affect sleep cycles
• The connection between quality sleep and mood
• How sleep helps your immune system, neurogenesis, and muscle growth and repair
• How deep sleep is the “washing cycle” for brain and body, flushing out negative thoughts and toxins
• How hustle culture and internalized capitalism (the belief that our worth is tied to our productivity and what we DO) can compound our sleep difficulties
• Why sleep is the first thing we cut away when cramped for time, even though it’s really our most effective superpower
• The specific challenges of entrepreneurship in getting enough sleep
• The intricacies of racism and stereotypes related to internalized capitalism
• Why rest is rebellious and radical empowerment
• The importance of finding peace and balance in life through prioritizing rest
• Liz’s tips for improved sleep:
• Clearly communicate boundaries to clients and colleagues about your hours and availability.
• Have a physical wind-down ritual for your body and mind to signal the transition from work.
• Write a gratitude or “win” list each night before bed.
• What’s up next for Dr. Liz? Become a Better Sleeper course and the podcast are coming soon!

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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So much of what we do as clinicians revolves around leadership, even though we may not be comfortable thinking of ourselves that way. If we are truly leaders in what we do, it makes sense to learn all we can about making ourselves the best leaders possible. The world needs good leaders! Join us as we discuss all things leadership development in today’s show

Our Featured Guest

Jevin Koleth

Jevin Koleth is a leadership coach who happens to be a childhood friend of mine. He has vast experience in what it means to be a leader through his time as a regional manager for a major healthcare system in Texas. I want you to hear Jevin’s insights about why leadership needs to be developed first at the individual level before implementing the more popular team approach. We also dive into how leadership has changed as a result of the pandemic, and we wrap up with personal and real-life experiences from Jevin that can help you in your growth as a leader.

Jevin Koleth

You’ll Learn:

• Why effective leadership development has to begin at the individual level with a solid foundation
• The first steps in an individualized approach to leadership training:
• Identify the person’s personal purpose and mission
• Identify the person’s barriers to being their best self
• How Jevin becomes an accountability coach in helping people develop long-term habits
• Why the mass team approach to leadership training needs to FOLLOW after the foundational individual approach
• Why it’s good to develop one’s self as a leader to be the best version of yourself
• How an impactful leader will come across with consistency
• How leadership has changed during the pandemic in the three areas of remote leadership, interpersonal skills, and team culture
• Jevin’s pearls of wisdom about going back to work in the office
• Why a leader’s goal should be positive outcomes from difficult conversations
• Highlights of Jevin’s current work as a leadership coach

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists.

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Today’s show is about building an online directory, which is hugely relevant to every clinician. Whether you’ve used an online directory to refer clients or thought about creating a directory to help other clinicians and clients, you know that it is a valuable resource that makes it easier to find a therapist who can help with very specific needs. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Laura Reagan, LCSW-C

Laura Reagan is a clinical social worker and integrative trauma specialist in Maryland who had the idea to create a directory for trauma therapists, Trauma Therapist Network. She’s a trauma survivor who has specifically worked around trauma for the past 19 years. Through her years of experience, she has learned a lot about the nuances of trauma therapy, the services available, and what services are lacking. Laura gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how her idea for the directory evolved, the logical steps in the creation process, and the helpful resources that are available in creating an online directory. We wrap up today’s conversation with a look at what has gone well in Laura’s process and the things that are being constantly tweaked along the way.

Trauma Therapist Network

You’ll Learn:

• How Laura got the idea to create an online directory of trauma therapists
• How Laura saw the need and made the leap to create the online directory
• How the directory helps people find the specific therapy focus that aligns with their trauma
• How the directory goes beyond finding a therapist but also helps inform and educate people about trauma and its effects
• The first steps Laura took to take the online directory from an idea to reality
• Why Laura was willing to make the intentional commitment of time, effort, and money (lots of money!) to make the directory a thoroughly usable resource that helps people feel safe, hopeful, and reassured
• How Laura conveys the important message through the directory that trauma doesn’t define a person and that there is hope to improve and make a better life
• Why Laura had to allow herself to receive help and support in the development process
• How creating the directory has been similar to giving birth to a child and watching it grow and develop into what it was meant to be

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Welcome to a new season of STC! Today’s conversation is different from the typical STC session, as it was inspired by a thread created in the STC community about healthcare providers dismissing legitimate medical concerns. This situation is one that you might encounter personally or with your clients, so I hope you’ll find our conversation helpful and informative. Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Danielle Hughes, MA, LPC

Danielle Hughes is in private practice in Loveland, CO. Danielle shared her perspective in the STC community as someone with a chronic illness who struggled for 12 years to get a proper diagnosis. She interacted with several healthcare providers who didn’t believe that her physical issues could be attributed to anything other than stress and trauma.

It’s been quite a journey for Danielle, who was just recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that truly affects her energy levels on a daily basis. In today’s session, Danielle shares her story and the challenges she has overcome

with the fortitude to keep going when doctors attributed her problems to psychological issues. We also dive deep into practical questions you can ask in

sessions with clients who have chronic illnesses and related psychological concerns.

Find Danielle Hughes on Facebook and Instagram, @daniellehughesLPC

You’ll Learn:

• About Danielle’s health journey that began with joint pain and fatigue in college
• How she was dismissed by the medical community as her physical concerns were attributed to stress for 12 years
• How Danielle found the fortitude to keep pushing forward with multiple doctors and specialists to get a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease
• About the route Danielle took with her PCP, the VA system, and multiple specialists
• Danielle’s advice for clinicians dealing with clients with physical issues in addition to psychological concerns
• Why it’s important to believe the client and not relate everything to trauma or anxiety
• How clinicians can be most helpful by asking questions and being supportive to understand the whole of the client’s life
• Why we should respond with compassion and curiosity when we are tempted to assume there’s nothing wrong with someone who appears “fine”
• About a typical day/week for Danielle, a clinician in private practice with a chronic autoimmune disease
• How Danielle deals with days when she struggles to function as a clinician

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Today’s episode is a valuable one if you are thinking about launching an online course sometime soon or in the future. My encouragement to you is to do it! Get started! Join me for this solo episode in which we discuss the basics.

You’ll Learn

• The most common reasons to launch an online course: to put your message out there to impact more people in different locations, to feel more fulfilled in your purpose, to diversify income streams, and to spark more creativity
• The highlights of my online course creation story that began in 2015---complete with all the doubts and fears
• How my first online course has surpassed my wildest dreams in passing the $200K mark in revenue
• What it means to me to build a successful online course:
• I can build a life around my loved ones and self-care instead of fitting my loved ones and self-care around my career.
• We as a family can contribute time and resources to organizations that make the world a better place.
• I can create my ideal retirement schedule years before I actually retire.
• Why I want you to write down the completion to this statement: “A successful online course for me would mean . . .”

Five pieces of advice to help you avoid the mistakes I made:

1. Online course creation is a long road---don’t rush it!
2. Don’t pick an online course platform because it’s cheap or free.
3. The first version of your online course will not be the final version.
4. See your online course as part of a larger value ladder rather than a one-off offering.
5. Build your course in community with others.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Creating an affiliate program for your online course can make a huge difference in your sales, but there are important things to consider. Being ready to start an affiliate program has prompted me to ask for a lot of advice from creators whose values align with mine. Do you want to know what they told me? Join me for this episode to learn more!

You’ll Learn:

• My explanation of the basics of an affiliate program and how it works
• 5 things successful creators told me to think about:
• Start with a small group of beta testers and get their valuable feedback. (I’m starting with a group of four people.)
• Establish your affiliate’s tax status from the start. (You’ll need to fill out the proper forms.)
• Set up auto payouts and refunds. (Take advantage of systems that make these processes easier. We use Kartra.)
• Think of your course as a way to build a “microphone” for your student, their message, and their social media/email marketing. (This makes it easier to bring in affiliate income.)
• Consider the 80/20 principle. The top 80-90% of your sales will come from the top 20% of your affiliates. (Ask, “What can I create to fuel the top 20% of my affiliates?”)

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Welcome! Today’s topic is relevant to every clinician and business owner. How do we create and build a business according to our values and sense of fulfillment rather than based on what society says should fulfill us? Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Erin Gibb

Erin Gibb is a group practice owner, podcast host, and coach who specializes in helping therapists navigate the societal and systemic factors that impact their businesses. She helps people build businesses and lives in alignment with who they are meant to be. In today’s session, we dive into how the words we say have a great impact on others, things that are happening at a systemic level, and why many therapists are suffering in silence because of self-sacrificial attitudes.

You’ll Learn:

• How Erin got into her line of work focused on mentoring, supervising, and coaching therapists
• Why Erin’s mission now is to show the difference between success and fulfillment
• Why Erin calls her work a “mental health revolution”
• Why we get trapped in equating our self-worth with our revenue
• How our “broken system” needs to change
• How Erin sees imposter syndrome play out for her clients
• Highlights of Erin’s work, podcast, and available resources

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists

Connect with Erin Gibb

Website

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

View Details

Two questions confront me daily: How big do I actually want to grow STC? What is the purpose of STC in relation to my overall life? Freedom is my most important value, and building my business around my life, family, and health is most important to me. Not every entrepreneur has the same goals, but these are questions for every entrepreneur to consider. Let’s take a closer look in today’s session!

You’ll Learn:

• How I was compromising to fit life around my business instead of optimizing the business to fit the life I wanted
• 5 key concepts I learned from Paul Jarvis in his book, Company of One:
• Companies of one reject limitless growth.
• We should set firm growth limits to keep opportunity costs small.
• Companies of one are okay with limited success.
• More profits mean more productivity, sales, customers, and infrastructure to manage.
• Develop your business out of a side gig.
• Your business needs time to incubate and grow so you can devote yourself to it full time.
• Target a specific audience to find your niche.
• The more specific your target is, the easier it is to connect, build trust, and distinguish your audience’s needs.
• Embrace the power of simplicity and personality.
• Amplify your uniqueness by sharing your most powerful asset: yourself and your personality.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Many therapists are interested in diversifying their income streams beyond their clinical work. We focus today’s session on a very specific aspect of supplemental income, mainly around AirBnb rentals. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Mando Sallavanti III

Armando “Mando” Sallavanti III is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ with a wealth of wisdom to share. We met and connected through LinkedIn, and we’ve had several conversations in recent months. In this session, he shares his expert opinion on owning AirBnb rental properties as compared to long-term rentals, along with the nuances of setting boundaries as a rental property owner. He is open to sharing mistakes he has made along the journey and what he finds rewarding in his role as a rental property owner.

You’ll Learn:

• Why real estate became the natural pivot for Mando to diversify his income
• How Mando and his fiancé became the owners of a triplex home, living in one unit and renting out the other two
• Why investing in real estate is a common denominator for wealthy people
• How AirBnb rental management differs from traditional long-term rentals
• How Mando maintains boundaries with tenants living in such close proximity to his home
• Why Mando works with a rental management company for AirBnb rentals, cleaning, maintenance, etc.
• How Mando’s AirBnb rental properties bring in significantly more money monthly than the same units did previously as long-term rentals
• Mando’s mistakes in not knowing what his expenses would actually be on his older property
• Mando’s advice to others: “Whether you purchase a property as a primary residence or for a rental, have an emergency fund set up to cover repairs and maintenance. There will always be unexpected issues that come up.”
• What Mando sees as the hardest part of owning rental properties

Armando Sallavanti is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC. Supervisory Office: 2 Bala Plaza, Ste 901, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004. Tel: 610.766.3000. Discussion of real estate investing is informational only and is not a service of MML Investors Services, LLC. or its affiliate companies.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

View Details

Since the beginning of this podcast in 2015, I’ve thought a lot about how I can use YouTube to maximize the impact of STC. I’ve pondered many questions about the sustainability of this endeavor and whether I should be creating separate content on YouTube or simply repurposing these podcast episodes on YouTube.

As a result of coaching, taking courses, and obsessively (nerdily) studying YouTube, I have decided to finally leap into YouTube in 2024. In today’s session, I’ll share what went into this decision for me and what you should consider as a current or aspiring therapist podcaster.

You’ll Learn:

• How our fears are usually rooted in some sort of trauma or feeling unseen or unheard
• Top considerations for me in starting out on YouTube:
• YouTube is intentionally appealing to podcasters and is becoming an ever more popular podcast platform.
• Putting a video editing team in place (Flocksy) makes the jump to YouTube much easier.
• YouTube (owned by Google) is very beneficial for discoverability and SEO.
• I plan to use the best of both playlists (podcasts, YouTube) and feed platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn).
• I plan to use “Walden months” to prioritize self-care and big projects. (My inspiration is the commitment to be a fully present family man and what I learned from Tim Ferris’ 2020 blog, 11 Reasons Not To Become Famous.)
• How I plan to keep you updated and document my YouTube journey in the weekly STC Newsletter
• Why I’m grateful for the support of STC listeners on this new path that has me feeling vulnerable, nervous, and fearful

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists:

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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Many of us aspire to add public speaking as a way to grow our impact beyond the therapy room, but it can be overwhelming to get started. Join us to learn more from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Jasmin Haley

Jasmin Haley has an interesting career that blossomed from her years in healthcare doing public speaking around the topics of substance use and HIV. From that platform, she launched her business consulting business to help others become better public speakers by honing in on their legacy messages. Her framework, the Heart Framework, emphasizes crafting your public speaking message to align with your heart and your authentic self. Our conversation covers why the public speaking platform can be so impactful, Jasmin’s practical tips about storytelling, and how to seamlessly merge podcasting with public speaking.

Website and Free Resources

You’ll Learn:

• Why public speaking is currently a trendy thing to do, fueled by social media exposure
• Why your voice is an impactful marketing tool from the moment you start a business
• How Jasmin learned humility and honed her communication skills to reach different segments of the population
• Why public speaking success depends on how well you know your audience and can reach their hearts
• How Jasmin learned to speak with power and humility
• Why a podcaster/business owner should enter the world of public speaking
• Jasmin’s tips for becoming a better storyteller and transformational speaker
• How to figure out your “path of least resistance” to best position yourself to leverage your message
• How Jasmin got clarity about her niche as a speaker consultant by asking, “What is it that I want to be known for?”

Resources:

Connect with Jasmin:

Website

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists:

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

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It’s not unusual for a podcaster to rebrand and head in a new direction after podcasting for a while. The big questions in this transition are around the logistics of the rebranding process. Today’s session is a coaching call with a member of our Healthcasters Podcasting Course who is unsure about the best way to handle this big transition. Join us as we talk it out and figure out her best next steps!

Our Featured Guest for Today’s Coaching Call:

Marie Vakakis, MA, AMHSW

Marie Vakakis is the founder of The Therapy Hub, and she’s a group practice owner who lives in Australia. She has been doing her podcast, Inside Social Work, for about five years, but she’s decided to rebrand to reach a bigger audience. We will discuss whether she should start a whole new podcast since she has chosen to go in a different direction. We’ll also talk about monetization strategies around podcasting and lining up specific episodes with paid endeavors, such as speaking engagements and online courses. I think you’ll enjoy this look at the entrepreneurial journey, content creation, and podcasting.

You’ll Learn:

• How Marie became a podcaster and learned to be courageous and vulnerable
• Why Marie wants to change and rebrand with a different podcast name and target the general public instead of early-career social workers
• Why Marie needs to pinpoint her new vision and assess the long-term sustainability
• The two tiers to Marie’s new goal: intentionally grow her practice and intentionally grow her transition to public speaker, educator, and course creator
• Melvin’s suggestions for creative ways Marie can grow her practice around content creation
• Melvin’s advice for Marie about introducing her new mission
• How Marie can model for her clients why it is important to embrace change in the rebranding process
• How Marie can coordinate podcast content with courses, public speaking, and coaching calls in ways that plug her individual products and services and help her stand out with her established expertise
• What Marie sees as her next important big step

Resources:

Marie's Website

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

Struggling with documentation and progress notes? Meet Upheal.

A new AI- powered, HIPPA-compliant platform that creates automated session notes and analytics for busy mental health professionals. Whether online or inperson, Upheal captures your sessions and creates pre-drafted progress notes and insights that you can simply review and edit. And, it even creates Treatment plans with SMART goals included!Visit https://sellingthecouch.com/upheal and enter the promo code “COUCH25” for a special 25% off a paid plan for the first 2 months just for STC fans.

View Details

Building relationships with journalists can be an open door to having your work featured, spotlighted, and available to a wider audience. The opportunities and possibilities are endless, but how do we build those authentic relationships? I hope this session will be helpful and informative for you as we learn more from today’s guest!

Our Featured Guest

Aisha R. Shabazz

Aisha R. Shabazz is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Philadelphia area. In addition, she is a private practice strategist, business coach, and strategic consultant for leaders in the mental health industry. In today’s conversation, she shares her business journey and how imposter syndrome plagued her as she put her talents out into the world. She discusses pitfalls that therapists encounter, along with how we can work through our insecurities in building relationships with journalists.

You’ll Learn:

• How the pursuit of her dream job naturally progressed into Aisha’s learning to promote herself in media coverage
• How a comment on a LinkedIn post by Arianna Huffington became the impetus for Aisha to fulfill her dreams
• Why “the page is not judging you” and “start small” became overriding mindsets in Aisha’s writing endeavors
• What kept holding Aisha back from putting her writing out into the world
• How HARO (Help A Reporter Out) provides an outlet for bloggers and business owners to get featured in publications and news outlets
• Three tips from Aisha on building relationships with journalists:
• Starting with HARO is advantageous because there is an established structure to the process.
• Realize that there is no guarantee of a good ROI with every opportunity you pursue; look at it as “planting seeds” and waiting for long-term results.
• Realize that not every opportunity will contribute to your SEO; some will boost your positive impact in the world.
• Why your goal should be to serve a larger purpose in the world rather than to seek constant external validation for your work
• Why the best starting point is something that lights you up with excitement
• What Aisha’s goals are for her podcast, Beyond the Session

Resources:

Connect with Aisha: Website

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!

➡️ Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast? Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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Today’s topic is a popular one that affects many people. I’m not ashamed to say that I have struggled with mental health and depression. It’s especially important to know how to balance mental health and the challenges of entrepreneurship. Join us for this incredibly open and honest conversation.

Our Featured Guest-Rebekah Shackney, LCSW

Rebekah Shackney has struggled with depression, which runs on both sides of her family. She’s here to share her story and how her life and business have been impacted. She will help guide us and share what she has learned in building a successful practice around therapy and DBT groups. If you hear those voices of doubt and fear in your head, join us to hear Rebekah’s helpful insight about the delicate dance of managing mental health and the demands of entrepreneurship.

Rebekah Shackney

You’ll Learn:

● How Rebekah’s struggle with genetic depression began

● Why one of the worst parts of depression is believing the lies that depression tells you

● How motherhood intensified depression for Rebekah as she experienced postpartum depression as she tried to balance work and parenthood

● How Rebekah started out in private practice but didn’t feel successful or “good enough”

● How she was paralyzed by envy of others and their success

● How she found the energy and determination to make changes and adjustments

● Why Rebekah started a podcast, A Therapist Takes Her Own Advice

● How she changed her money mindset to squelch the voices of doubt and fear

● Techniques that Rebekah has used to confront fear and get through it

● How Rebekah can show up and do what she wants to do in life to serve and help others

● How DBT can help people take ownership, accept their situation, and take steps to make changes

● Rebekah’s #1 piece of advice to clinicians: “Pay for the supervision you need and deserve.”

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

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I have to admit that the topic of personal finance excites the nerd in me. I love reading and learning more about all things around finance! Investing intelligently and planning for retirement are often intimidating areas in which we can always benefit from expert advice. Join us to learn how you can make solid investment decisions and better prepare for your future.

Our Featured Guest-Dave Frank, Certified Financial Planner

Dave Frank is the founder of Turning Point Financial Life Planning, which focuses on helping clinicians in private practice manage their retirement and finances. Dave has the heart to empower therapists around money and finances so they can be more present and centered in all areas of personal and professional life. In today’s show, we will begin by looking at the information and misinformation about investing that have come forward during the pandemic. Dave shares strategies for financial management, including why investing in the stock market is a good idea. Our conversation turns to retirement options for solo and group practitioners and a brief look at cryptocurrency.

Turning Point Financial Life Planning

Use the promo code “STC” for 20% off Dave’s Quick Start Coaching Intensive!

You’ll Learn

● Why most people don’t know the basics of sound investing

● Why “passively managed, low-cost, tax-efficient mutual funds” are the best tools for long-term investing---(Dave explains the terminology!)

● The difference between investing and gambling for long-term financial goals

● The important question about investing: What are my goals?

● The basics of mutual funds

● A sound and simple investing strategy that Dave recommends

● Why your allocations should shift to funds with less volatility and less return as you near retirement age

● Dave’s investment advice for beginners about getting started with target-date accounts and emergency savings

● Why solo practitioners should be careful not to overcontribute to a retirement account

● Dave’s opinion about investing in cryptocurrency--does it make sense for therapists?

I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work.

Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting started: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course.

Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops from Mel and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done.

By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, have a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course.

We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with six members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a

part of, please check out my free A to Z Online Course Guide.

The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and the lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021.

Resources:

Want to launch your online...

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Today’s show is a live coaching call regarding a topic that has been very relevant to me recently. We are talking about the many nuances of online courses. I hope this episode will be helpful to you and bring new ideas if an online course is on your radar.

Our Featured Guest-Kristen Boice, LMFT

Kristen Boice is a therapist in private practice and a fellow podcaster. She has realized the need among her listeners for an online course. Her podcast, Close the Chapter, is about closing the chapter on certain things in our lives so we can open ourselves up to new opportunities. In today’s coaching call, I’ll share some lessons I’ve learned along the way about online courses. We’ll talk about the rationale behind creating a live course vs. a pre-recorded one. We will wrap up with a pre-launch strategy to help get buyers for your course before you launch.

Pathways To Healing Counseling

Kristen Boice

You’ll Learn

● Why Kristen started her podcast about two years ago to provide another opportunity for deeper work for her clients

● How an online course can help you get more information out to curious people

● The options for your course and other services

● Why niching down is a big challenge for therapists

● How Kristen sees the epidemic of people feeling “not good enough” and being scared to speak up

● How a niche can help you offer value and find your sweet spot

● How the best courses take people from one place to another

● Why Kristen focuses on helping with the hard conversations

● How to use phraseology that appeals to people and addresses their need

● Step-by-step actions to build your email list and create effective opt-ins

● How to create value on the front end of your course by validating your content

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!

➡️ Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast? Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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Staying true to our values is important in the work we do as clinicians. True business success for us is not based solely on the revenue we generate but on many other important aspects, such as working in a way that our genuine gifts and talents show forth in the meaningful and purposeful work that we do. Join us to learn more.

Our Featured Guest-Jennifer Kasey, PsyD

Jennifer Kasey is a good friend, mentor, and sister in the Christian faith. She and I met way back in 2009 in Nashville, and I’m thrilled that she’s joining us today. She’ll share her perspective on making a slow and intentional transition to full-time private practice. She started as a psychologist at Vanderbilt’s University Counseling Center and then transitioned to a large healthcare system with a small private practice on the side. Over this decade of transitional change, Jennifer has learned many valuable lessons. She will share the logical steps she took in her transition to full-time private practice, the hard moments in the journey, and what she has cherished most about the process.

Redirection

Counseling

You’ll Learn

●Why the first logical step toward private practice for Jennifer was a whiteboard with color-coded short-term and long-term goals

●How she took the next steps of applying for her LLC, creating her website, setting up her business account, downloading bookkeeping software, updating her Psychology Today profile, and more

●A breakdown of Jennifer’s items included on her whiteboard--and why she still looks at it every day in her office

●How Jennifer’s mindset has changed as she gained confidence and let go of fear

●How the hard moments in private practice showed her to learn from the NOs

●How Jennifer learned to stay true to herself, her goals, and values and not live in the “shoulds”

●How Jennifer finds contentment in being herself and staying with her “true North”

●Why you can’t follow after someone else’s definition of success

●What Jennifer cherishes most about building her practice slowly and intentionally: freedom, creativity, and a sense of empowerment

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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In any solo episode, I love to be transparent in sharing the behind-the-scenes processes in the entrepreneurial journey. On social media, we see highlights and the finished product, but we rarely see the struggle and obstacles in getting there.

Today’s focus is on confronting and overcoming fear as I go through the process of building a new product. My hope is that this episode will give you encouragement and inspiration to keep going in whatever new endeavors you undertake.

You’ll Learn

Three ways to combat the voices of doubt and fear:

Work on showing the imperfect side of building something vs. just the finished product

Learning and growing “in the open” helps others learn from both your failures and successes. (From Show Your Work, see Resources)

Bringing what you fear will be judged by others can help dissipate the fear and bring encouragement and support.

• Realize that the first version of anything will not be the final version.
• Putting out beta versions during the development process reduces the pressure to “get it perfect.”
• Getting feedback on beta versions is not an indictment of my expertise. (Use Survey Monkey, see Resources)
• Create an emotional and brainstorming safety net.
• Using layers of family, friends, and colleagues will create a support circle for you.
• Getting emotional, practical, and technical support will vary according to the stages in which you find yourself.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in the show:

Show Your Work by Austin Kleon

Survey Monkey

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If the topic of building your personal brand on social media brings feelings of anxiety and insecurity, then today’s show is for you. As clinicians, we know it makes sense to have a digital footprint in the online world, but it’s difficult to know just how to establish yourself with authenticity and transparency. There are so many nuances to the intimidating world of social media! Today’s conversation will give you valuable insight and practical tips to help people get to know, like, and trust you. Join us to learn more.

Our Featured Guest-Lisa Mustard, LMFT

Lisa Mustard is a personal brand coach, psychoeducator, therapist, podcaster, and self-described personal development junkie in South Carolina. This mom of two has created an awe-inspiring presence on social media around topics like fitness, health, mindset, and goals. Recording with her phone, Lisa proves that a high-quality, high-dollar studio is not a requirement for building your personal brand, and she does it in very unique and authentic ways. Lisa joins us to talk about what personal branding is, how much to share, and that all-important line between OK and TMI. We’ll wrap up with the most common mistake people make in personal branding and three tips that you can utilize today to start building your personal brand on social media.

Lisa Mustard

You’ll Learn

● What is a personal brand? Your reputation, what people say about you, and what you’re known for

● The best way to narrow your brand down to three specific things is to identify your top values and priorities

● Why you have to be clear and specific about how you want to move forward on social media

● How to decide how much to share online

● The most common mistake people make is----not taking the time to build a personal brand

● Three tips for a clinician who wants to build a personal brand:

○ Identify your strengths, uniqueness, and how you help people

○ Know your values and what you stand for

○ Know where you want to go and what you want to accomplish

● Why you should realize that not everyone will resonate with your message---and that’s OK

● Why social media is the best place to build your personal brand

Resources

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!

➡️ Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast? Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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Today’s show is about a topic that has been a struggle for much of my life and career.

I’ve fallen victim to comparing myself to others and feeling like I’m not measuring up.

It’s taken a lot of personal work for me to learn to compare in healthy ways that don’t cripple and stifle my creativity and purpose.

Are you in the same boat? Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest - Supriya Blair, PsyD

Dr. Supriya Blair is a psychologist in Albany, NY. We have connected through the STC community, and I wanted to get her input on the topic of comparing ourselves to others.

We’ll start by discussing how comparison comes too easily for many of us and how Supriya noticed this

comparison impacting her life until she was able to reframe her perspective.

We will consider an all-too-familiar scenario in which a colleague’s success triggers insecurity in our lives, along with helpful tips and resources to navigate the tricky field of comparison to others.

Dr. Supriya

You’ll Learn

● Why comparison is so prevalent in the helping professions

● Three ways we compare ourselves to our colleagues:

○ Seeing someone else’s path and journey as THE template for success

○ Not recognizing my authenticity as a source of empowerment

○ Not allowing for different business models in finding my unique path

● How to handle the pushback when we launch into our own path

● Navigating the difficult moments when someone else experiences success or achieves the milestone that we want

● Why the ability to serve is the most important thing

● Practical help in the area of comparison to others:

○ Brene՛ Brown’s book, I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn't): Making the Journey from "What Will People Think?" to "I Am Enough"

○ Don Miguel Ruiz’s book, The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book)

○ Meditation practice

Resources

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!

➡️ Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast? Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

View Details

What if I told you that there is something simple and free that most of us can do daily for an hour or less that yields amazing physical and mental benefits? Would you want to know what it is? Since the pandemic has forced us to take a closer look at our habits and make some changes, I want to share this life-changing activity that has become an almost daily habit for me. It’s hiking!

Incorporating a midday hike several times each week helps me sleep better at night and stay centered for daily tasks. My inner “research nerd” got curious and took a deeper look at the intersection of hiking, mental health, and entrepreneurship, and I want to share with you what I’ve found.

You’ll Learn

● Why hike? What are the benefits?

○ Hiking helps keep our minds sharp and agile.

○ Hiking helps us to focus better.

○ HIking can spark serious creativity.

● If you’re a hiker, please share with the STC Community what benefits you’re seeing in your personal and professional life. I’m very interested to hear about your results!

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Also mentioned: Successful Aging by Daniel Levitin

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!

➡️ Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast? Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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Many of us find the concept of networking to be an intimidating endeavor. Even though it’s a vital element of business success, it can feel scary and shady, and a little too sales-y. Join us to learn more about what you should be focusing on in your networking relationships.

Our Featured Guest

Patrick Casale, MA, LCMHC, LCAS

Patrick Casale is a clinician in Asheville, NC. He provides coaching for clinicians who are transitioning from a group practice or agency to a solo practice. He’s here to talk about networking in authentic ways. We’ll discuss what authentic networking means to Patrick and how to make your networking relationships count. We will also examine different scenarios that might be a win-loss situation, a win-win situation, and the most common mistakes that happen in the networking space.

Casale Coaching

Resilient Mind Counseling

You’ll Learn

● How clinicians aren’t taught to use collaborative communication to support each other’s businesses in reciprocal ways

● What is networking? Getting to know people as people and learning about their lives and passions

● Why networking can feel artificial, very “surface level,” and inauthentic

● Some authentic questions to ask in networking situations include questions about family, passions, how they ended up here, fears of entrepreneurship, etc.

● How to have reciprocity in relationships by making the other person the priority and supporting them

● Why you should ask, “How can I help this person be successful? And not, how can this person help me?”

● Why Patrick says, “A lot of networking opportunities feel like awkward first dates.”

● Why a win-lose scenario would be talking too much about yourself and not listening actively; a win-win scenario means talking and getting to know each other with connection and trust

The most common mistakes in networking:

○ Not having clear strategy and intention

○ Scheduling too many networking events in one day

○ Making networking one-sided in your requests

● Why your networking strategy should include colleagues who don’t work with the same client population, those who do work with the same, and client groups, and psychiatric providers

● The best action step for you to take in applying the wisdom of today’s episode

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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Overwhelmed. That’s the best word to describe how most podcasters feel as they take the leap and start on their podcasting journey. Perhaps the biggest source of overwhelm is confusion about the gear needed to get going, and I remember this well from my beginning in 2015. I didn’t have a pro-level setup when I began, and I wondered and worried about how I would be perceived in this new world. In all honesty, I had about $100 in gear, the biggest part of that being a $60 mic.

Things have changed since those early days, and STC has blossomed from nine downloads initially to over 1 million today. The tech-junkie part of me has enjoyed being able to upgrade my gear, and those upgrades have been a process of learning and experimenting. Even though your gear IS important for podcasting, I believe strongly that the most important keys are consistency and personality–and you don’t have to spend a fortune to have those elements. In today’s episode, I’m discussing my tech stack, what I use now, and what I recommend to other podcasters. Join me!

You’ll Learn:

• The three-prong fork in the road on the podcasting journey: the basic starter set of gear, incremental upgrades as the budget allows, and the decision to “go all in” with podcasting
• Why I invested about $2K into gear upgrades in 2021–and how I made this decision
• My current tech stack:
• The Shure SM7B mic
• Many podcasting pros use this mic because it is top-notch quality; it runs about $400 on Amazon.
• The RODECaster Pro all-in-one podcasting studio
• It gives more nuanced control of the mic and headphone sound levels. The Pro I runs around $400, and the Pro II is about $700. A less expensive starter piece that I recommend is the Samson Q, for about $60.
• The Cloudlifter CL-1 signal booster
• This elevates the signal from your mic to give quality sound, and it costs about $150.
• Mogami Gold XLR cables
• These are about $60 each and are top-quality cables.
• The Gator Frameworks tabletop mic stand
• I pair this with the Rode PSA1 mic arm. It’s worth it to spend more for quality because it stays in place and doesn’t shift or droop.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M50x studio headphones
• These connect to the RODECaster Pro and give consistent sound; they cost about $190.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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Today I’m sharing what I’m using for no-code tools and my tech stack as an online course creator. Believe me, I’ve experimented with a lot of different things, and I’m always willing to share what I’ve learned and what I recommend to others. If you aren’t familiar with the term “no-code,” it simply refers to tools that don’t require a code or advanced programming to use. I hope this information is helpful to anyone who is creating a course or thinking about this endeavor in the future. Join me to learn more!

You’ll Learn:

11 no-code tools I’m using to create online courses:

• Kartra is an all-in-one platform with features that fit our needs.
• Circle provides a place for community outside mainstream social media.
• Stripe allows us to take payments within Kartra.
• Loom is great for recording online course videos because there are many recording options.
• Notion helps with lesson planning because there are lesson and template options that make it easy to repurpose content later.
• Testimonial.to makes it easy to gather testimonials from students; a downside is that it is expensive.
• Smarter Queue helps with social media management because it integrates with Facebook groups and LinkedIn, and it recycles posts.
• Canva is amazing because there are many clean and modern slide templates with animation and graphics.
• Headline Studios helps create engaging course titles with built-in AI and feedback.
• Captivate is great for podcast hosting because of dynamic ads insertion.
• Easy Webinar makes the webinar sign-up process easy for students.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

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Are you a course creator who wants to get better and better at your craft? I launched my first online course back in 2015, and I’m glad I did it and started on this journey. The truth is that I had no clue what I was doing! I feel like I’ve learned so much since then, and I’m happy to share those things with all of you. In today’s session, I’m discussing three non-negotiable meetings that I’ve implemented with my online courses. This simple technique has played a massive role in making over $300K more than the original $2K I made from the same course in 2015. Are you curious to hear more? Join me!

You’ll Learn:

Three meetings course creators need:

• After-action review (AARS)--takes place after a launch.
• Ask and answer three questions: What went well? What did not go well? What was missing?
• This simple step has a massive impact on course growth and future scaling.
• Live chat–is a way to “put yourself out there”
• I recommend a quarterly live chat with existing students, whether one-on-one or in a group.
• This feedback gives you an idea of what’s working/what’s not and allows you to come up with better offers in the future.
• Learning time–is a way to be a student for life.
• Block off time weekly to get better at your course topic and related topics by learning more
• “Being a lifelong student of your course topic opens up a lifetime of opportunities.”

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

View Details

When I was a first-time course creator in 2015, I was excited and scared at the same time. The tension around building fast or building thoughtfully was difficult to navigate. In today’s session, I’m discussing three important questions that I wish I had asked myself back then.

You’ll Learn:

3 questions to ask before launching your online course:

Do I want a “strip mall or a skyscraper”? (This concept comes from a session with Nathan Barry of ConvertKit and Jay Klaus of Creator Science.)

• Both models require energy in different ways, and both have several benefits and challenges.
• The key question to ask: What do I want to optimize for?
• Why I have gone from a strip mall to a skyscraper mode

Where should I focus my marketing?

• Focus on one platform at a time.
• Remember that it takes time to build trust and rapport.

How can I validate my online course?

• The secret is to validate with paying students each step of the way.
• Take a long-term view and grow slowly with care, intention, and thoughtfulness.

Resources:

Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!

➡️ Want to launch your online course? Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

➡️ Looking to launch a successful podcast? Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

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As clinicians and entrepreneurs, we are always looking to use our skills more creatively and expand our offerings and services. We recently released the STC Online Course Creator Kit, which is a 7-day free email course. In today’s session, I want to share the framework and strategies we used and explain why we are giving them away for free. Curious? Join us!

Our Featured Guest

Daniel Bustamante

Daniel Bustamante is an entrepreneur who helps content creators build high-converting sales funnels. He is the Head of Ops and Automation at Ship 30 for 30, a cohort-based writing course that teaches the fundamentals of online writing. Daniel and I met on Twitter, and he is the one I turned to for this online course project. We explore how an email course differs from a traditional email opt-in, how to visualize the purpose of the course and give you a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. We also highlight the tech used in the course creation, along with why I take the unpopular approach that it’s better to give our best stuff away for free.

You’ll Learn:

• How an email course functions as a hybrid of an opt-in and a course to deliver a lead magnet
• How an email course uses an automated drip sequence
• When it makes sense to create an email course
• How an email course helps you build an email list and generate leads
• How Daniel uses a “boats and islands” metaphor to illustrate the power of lead magnets (What are your “boats and islands”?)
• How Daniel began the process to build STC’s free email course as a precursor to the STC Mastermind
• How to avoid a common trap for course creators and realize that what you are selling are outcomes
• Highlights of the tech tools we used in building our email course: Kartra, Survey Monkey, and Calendly
• The #1 mistake people make in creating free email courses
• How the email course is a logical, sequential roadmap
• What the numbers are showing about the success of the STC course: almost 300 subscribers, 52% opt-in rate, and 67% open rate

Resources:

Daniel on Twitter

Sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

coursecreatorstarterkit.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Join the Newsletter!

It's at this point now trusted by over 2700 clinicians. And each week we share the latest podcast episode some of the writing that I'm doing on LinkedIn, with regard to my journey as a course creator and making this transition from psychologist and clinical practice to all mine creator and owner of an online business. And we also included a brand new section called on Mel's Mind where I break down a blog post or a video or something that's inspiring me to become a better person and a better business owner. If any of that sounds interesting and would love to have you sign up, you can sign up over at https://sellingthecouch.com/newsletter. Get the FREE A to Z Online Course Guide just for signing up today!

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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If you’ve thought about getting more active on LinkedIn and building an audience there to increase the number of referral sources for your private practice or to move from clinical to online income, today’s session will be helpful for you. Since my very first LinkedIn post a few months ago, I’ve gone from 789 to 1864 followers and from 1000 to over 245,000 views.

The growth has been phenomenal! Throughout this process, I’ve done some things right and a lot of things wrong, and I hope you can learn from my experiences.

In today’s session, I’m sharing the mistakes I’ve made in the past six months in writing on LinkedIn and the best lessons I’ve learned along the way.

You’ll Learn:

• Why I started writing on LinkedIn in November 2022–and was shocked at the views on my very first post
• My best tips for writing on LinkedIn:
• Turn on Creator Mode when you begin.
• Make narrowly-focused carousel posts related to your paid offerings–and this process can evolve over time. (Use these links to find out more about Shield and Flocksy.)
• Engage with targeted accounts to create an informal tribe.
• Post on a schedule that fits with your energy and mental health, even if it means you play the long game.
• My biggest challenges in writing on LinkedIn:
• Feeling pressure to post more often than I’m comfortable with doing.
• Overcoming perfectionism in artwork and graphics in my posts.
• Being on the “content-creation treadmill.”
• Determining whether I want the successful version of this endeavor–and the issues that accompany that success.

I would love to connect with you on LinkedIn!

We'd LOVE To Partner With You!💻 Want to launch your online course?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

🎙️ Looking to launch a successful podcast?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop for therapists:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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In today’s busy online world, virtual presentations are everything in how you are received AND perceived. If you put forth the effort to create an online course, webinar, or speaking engagement, you want to show up authentically and masterfully to engage your audience. This is an important area in which there is always room for improvement! My guest today is a proven expert in virtual presentation, and she’s here to share her knowledge with us. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Lorraine K. Lee

Lorraine Lee is a top career and business virtual keynote speaker who has been featured in several publications and on podcasts with numerous accomplishments and awards throughout her career. She has worked in several editorial roles at LinkedIn and Prezi and has built a LinkedIn following of over 300,000, so she is very much immersed in the world of virtual presentations and online learning. She is the perfect person to help us understand more about improving our virtual presentations.

Lorraine's Website

You’ll Learn:

• How virtual presentations give you access to a wider audience and help you stand out in your expertise
• Why the entertainment factor of virtual presentations cannot be ignored
• Examples of different types of virtual presentations
• Lorraine’s tips for improving your virtual presentations:
• Add movement to your presentations and incorporate “state changes.”
• Curate your background with features that are calming, positive, personable, and professional.
• Include visuals on your screens to help people learn and remember. (90% of the information processed by our brains is visual!)
• Use eye contact to improve your connection to your audience.
• How to implement visuals like logos, color gradients, and simple info on your screen
• How to use artwork, photos, and personal elements to cultivate a deeper connection
• How to set up your monitor, camera, laptop, etc. to maximize eye contact with your audience
• Lorraine’s tips for introverts in showing up better in visual presentations
• An overview of Lorraine’s expanding consulting business

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Welcome to today’s session, which is a conversation/coaching call with a member of our Online Course Mastermind.

We focus today on the dilemma that comes along with social media. While social media is a fantastic way to connect with people and build your online presence, it can be a major source of distraction, comparison, and even addiction.

How do you handle the tension that comes with social media if you don’t really like being there? This is a common struggle for many clinicians, including me, and this makes me think more intentionally about how to show up while guarding my time against a social media takeover.

Join us as we explore the hidden dangers and potential benefits of social media and learn how to handle the tension that comes with it.

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call

Elizabeth Penela, Ph.D.

Dr. Elizabeth Penela (Eli) is a licensed psychologist in Florida who works primarily with families of anxious kids. In helping those with anxiety and OCD, she offers compassionate and effective treatment that goes way beyond traditional talk therapy.

Appointments at her practice for adults and children are available in English and Spanish with both in-person and telehealth options.

In today’s session, you’ll hear our conversation around Eli’s new online course, how she is engaging on social media now, and helpful advice about protecting her time, energy, and privacy on social media platforms.

Dr. Penela’s Website (Wise Mama Bears)

You’ll Learn:

• Why Eli decided to create her online course for parents of children who struggle with anxiety
• How an online course gives a greater opportunity to help more people in a group format with a parent-friendly schedule
• Why Eli is planning to launch her course with an 8-week live cohort and let it evolve over time to a more pre-recorded version
• How Eli realized that social media (even though it’s NOT her thing) is important in the course-building world to increase her visibility and expertise
• How social media tension for Eli is an “energy” matter of having to show up regularly, read comments, respond, etc.
• How Eli is using Instagram and LinkedIn right now
• Melvin’s advice to Eli about protecting her time and energy on social media:
• Limit notifications that come through on your phone.
• Use time-blocking techniques and focus on a few people for quality engagements–instead of connecting with everyone.
• Tune into your energy levels and guard the privacy of yourself and your family.
• Don’t feel pressure to live on social media because everyone else is doing it.

WANT TO PARTNER WITH US?

Want to launch your online course, but not sure if people will buy it?

Please check out our free 7-Day Course Creator Starter Kit For Therapists: https://sellingthecouch.com/coursekit

Looking to launch a successful podcast but not sure where to start?

Please check out our free "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business" workshop:

https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop

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The pandemic has dramatically shifted and shaped the world of therapy, and it’s prompted all of us to take a close look at our work and how we can do it best. We have learned that we, as therapists, can deploy our unique skill set in different realms than we originally planned, such as moving from the therapy room to bringing in online course income. This transition brings a struggle that is common to many clinicians, and it causes a tremendous amount of fear and imposter syndrome. Join us for this open and honest conversation.

Our Featured Guest

Mineela Chand

Mineela Chand is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Wayne, PA. Besides being a corporate leadership coach and a certified brain spotting therapist who also has a divinity degree, she is a dear friend and colleague of several years. Since 2022, I have done monthly brain spotting sessions with Mineela, which I’ve found to be extremely beneficial. In today’s session, we are discussing the three biggest roadblocks in going from clinical to online course income. Mineela has worked with a lot of therapists and online course creators, and she uses her background and experience to walk us through the mindset shifts in this transition.

Mineela’s LinkedIn and Email

You’ll Learn:

• How we can focus on our unique skills as therapists instead of the “role” we take on
• Why the caring and helping professions are difficult to transition from–and leave us feeling guilty for wanting to do something else
• The three mindset roadblocks in the transition away from therapy to online course income:
• Visibility--How am I going to be seen?
• Ability–Can I do this?
• Stability–Will I have the finances to make it work?
• Why doing our work outside the privacy of the therapy room takes us outside our comfort zone
• How our personal trauma keeps us from showing up with a new level of visibility
• How Mineela handled “the fear monster” when it showed up for her
• How it helps to “create a bridge” between what you read/learn and what you DO (Mineela explains how to create a bridge between what you know about therapy and what you want to do with an online course.)

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Is your goal to build a business that brings in $1 million each year? I used to be that entrepreneur, too, but something’s changed. Even though I always feel some vulnerability in sharing the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, I find joy and feel a sense of responsibility in being honest about my journey in building STC with the simple hope to inspire others. I’m sharing five realizations about why I don’t have that same goal anymore. Join me for this solo session!

You’ll Learn:

• Five realizations that came to me about striving to build a $1 million/year business:
• I can’t build a lifestyle business and a high-revenue one. It is OK to choose to optimize lifestyle over revenue.
• I don’t actually need that much money. Living a life congruent with my values is more important to me.
• More growth equals more complexity. Entrepreneurial growth brings me more stress and anxiety, and it is OK to want simplicity.
• My self-worth is not tied to a number, even though excellence has always been my calling card. Being excellent all the time is exhausting.
• I had to redefine what success means to me, and it is no longer purely financial. Winning at what I do is not tied to revenue.
• Practical aspects of my entrepreneurial journey around income, expenses, taxes, charitable giving, and living a healthy and holistic life
• Why each product you launch and market costs energy and effort
• Why it’s important to me to grow less in my business so I have more time to be the husband, father, friend, and person I want to be in the world
• How capping business growth causes the pressure needed to optimize and accomplish new goals in the future

Mentioned in this episode:

Dr. Ali Abdaal on YouTube: "How I Failed in 2022"

The Old Man & the Three podcast by JJ Redick

The Healthcasters Course

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Everyone loves a good story! Just think how your marketing could be transformed by using the same captivating pull of a good story! This concept takes the intimidating world of marketing and makes it fun, exciting, and accessible to every entrepreneur. Want to know more? Join us in today’s session!

Our Featured Guest

Brent Stutzman

Brent is a former church pastor turned brand marketing expert, and he is StoryBrand Certified through Donald Miller’s StoryBrand Framework. As the only non-therapist in the STC Online Course Mastermind, he genuinely desires to use his knowledge and expertise to help the group members. He approaches brand marketing from the perspective of story, which resonates with many people. Brent will share how we can use the technique of story in ethical ways and integrate this approach into the marketing process. He gives simple steps that you can take today to transform your marketing!

Website

You’ll Learn:

• The connection between story and business growth
• Why confusion is the #1 villain in the marketing process
• How to analyze what your website is saying to people (Are you helping them survive and thrive?)
• Why simplicity works to capture attention to your website in the first three seconds
• How to “Play the Guide, not the Hero” with empathy and authority
• How a problem opens a curiosity gap (story loop) that will engage the brain until the problem is solved
• Brent’s personal example of identifying a problem and opening a story loop that needs to be solved
• How to open story loops and solve problems on your website, speeches, etc.
• Why you need a clear and easily accessible call-to-action
• How the StoryBrand Framework works: character, problem, guide, plan, call to action, success, and failure

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

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If you’ve had a standoff with perfectionism in starting something new, you’ll want to join us for this coaching call in today’s session. Like most clinicians who are branching out with an online course, my guest is struggling with her fears about this new endeavor and whether she will get it right. Join us to hear the conversation.

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call

Katie Lear, LCMHC, RPT, RDT

Katie Lear is a therapist in solo private practice near Charlotte, NC. She was part of the Online Course School Live Cohort, and she’s part of the Online Course School Mastermind this year. She is preparing for the beta group launch of her course, and her next step will be to record the digital version. This process gives a chance to collect feedback from beta students on the lessons and modules before creating the digital version. Join us for this open and honest conversation around fear and perfectionism.

Katie's Website

You’ll Learn:

• A look at how Katie arrived at her private practice niche working with preteens and tweens around anxiety and OCD symptoms
• Why Katie decided to jump into the online course world
• How an online course income stream helps clinicians build a balanced life outside their career, have more time and capacity for family, and utilize another way to reach clients
• The starting point for content in Katie’s course: teaching about coping skills
• How Katie is looking to incorporate a playful element into her course
• How Katie is dealing with “blank-page syndrome” in creating her course slides
• Tips for Katie in distilling and refining the content for her course
• Why heart and intent matter more in an online course than “Hollywood-level” production
• Why there is great value in teaching with the structure of three tips, three steps, and common mistakes

Mentioned in this episode:

Need Community Support? Join the Mastermind

If you are a seasoned therapist, and you are wanting to move from clinical to online course income, we actually have a specific mastermind for therapists who are doing this. We meet together to build and grow and scale our online courses. You can learn more about that mastermind over at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

If you like what you hear, subscribe to the show!

Never miss an episode! Subscribe to the show where ever you listen to your podcast. This will keep you up to date on all the latest releases and news going on in the STC world!

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Welcome to a brand new season of Selling the Couch! After an extended sabbatical of several months, it’s good to be back on STC with new, exciting shows. Today’s topic is one that we have all contemplated to some degree. I imagine that many coffee shop conversations and therapy sessions have included discussions around how we think about work and integrate our work into our post-pandemic lives. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest

Dan Cumberland

Dan Cumberland is a creative, catalyst, and collaborator at The Meaning Movement. He created this blog and community to help people pursue a deeper meaning in what they do beyond simply earning a paycheck. From his personal experience, he knows what it’s like to sacrifice too much for work and face burnout and hopelessness. He is intensely passionate about helping others wrestle with the big questions around work, meaning, and purpose. In this conversation, Dan inspires us to find meaning without letting work become our identity, along with his top tips for finding a healthy balance between work and life.

You’ll Learn:

• Why entrepreneurs are programmed to find meaning in their work through the areas of people, product, process, and profit
• Why pursuing your passion usually means sacrificing something else
• How Dan came to a watershed moment with his passion, The Meaning Movement
• Why entrepreneurship is a constant reimagining of yourself and your purpose
• Why there is never a clean line between who you are and what you do
• Dan’s top tips for finding a balance between work and life
• How to assess your happiness and satisfaction
• Info about Dan’s beta cohort assessment for finding balance in life

Connect with Dan:

Website and Burnout Assessment

Mentioned in this episode:

We'd Like to Thank Today's Sponsor

Just because you own a private practice, it doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice. There's a lot of nuts and bolts to getting great outcomes and a stellar income. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. You need a rock solid plan that is actionable, measurable and doable! On Sept. 19-22, Kelly and Miranda from zynnyme are hosting a free training on how to create a business plan in less than one hour. This live series contains a specialized training for each phase of practice from starting a counseling practice or growing a private practice to loving your successful practice, and transforming your group practice. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you're there, you can also join the interest list for their Business School for Therapists - an all-in-one resource for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

zynnyme

Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide!

Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

Online Course Guide

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Today’s show is about a topic I’ve wanted to cover for a while. It’s about something many of us might have wanted to do in our practices. We are talking about retreats and mini-retreats, and I have the perfect person to fill us in on the details.

Mikella Millen is an art therapist in NYC. She has taken a great idea and made it reality by creating retreats focused on self-care for clinicians. She’s sharing with us how she developed this idea and validated the fact that people would want to sign up. We’ll talk about what went well and what didn’t go well, along with Mikella’s lessons learned along the way.

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So much of what we do as clinicians revolves around leadership, even though we may not be comfortable thinking of ourselves that way. If we are truly leaders in what we do, it makes sense to learn all we can about making ourselves the best leaders possible. The world needs good leaders! Join us as we discuss all things leadership development in today’s show

Our Featured Guest

Jevin Koleth

Jevin Koleth is a leadership coach who happens to be a childhood friend of mine. He has vast experience in what it means to be a leader through his time as a regional manager for a major healthcare system in Texas. I want you to hear Jevin’s insights about why leadership needs to be developed first at the individual level before implementing the more popular team approach. We also dive into how leadership has changed as a result of the pandemic, and we wrap up with personal and real-life experiences from Jevin that can help you in your growth as a leader.

Jevin Koleth

You’ll Learn:

●Why effective leadership development has to begin at the individual level with a solid foundation

●The first steps in an individualized approach to leadership training:

○Identify the person’s personal purpose and mission

○Identify the person’s barriers to being their best self

●How Jevin becomes an accountability coach in helping people develop long-term habits

●Why the mass team approach to leadership training needs to FOLLOW after the foundational individual approach

●Why it’s good to develop one’s self as a leader to be the best version of yourself

●How an impactful leader will come across with consistency

●How leadership has changed during the pandemic in the three areas of remote leadership, interpersonal skills, and team culture

●Jevin’s pearls of wisdom about going back to work in the office

●Why a leader’s goal should be positive outcomes from difficult conversations

●Highlights of Jevin’s current work as a leadership coach

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY

Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide

🖥️ The A To Z Online Course

MY COURSES:

🎧 The Healthcasters (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers):

💻 Online Course School (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!):

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 My Podcast Hosting Platform (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial):

🚀 My All In One Online Business Platform (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial):

🤖 What I Use For Evergreen Webinars (Easy Webinar)

🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount)

🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ STC Home Office Tour!

📔 My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear

🎥 My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room.

The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries.

You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. =

Or simply click below for ease =).

SUBSCRIBE HERE

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter (trusted by over 7k colleagues)

🌍 My website / blog

📸 Instagram (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY?

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online creator living in Philadelphia, PA.

In 2014, I began to think about how to use the therapy skills we learn in grad school, and in our clinical work into different realms (e.g., podcasting, consulting, online course creation, etc).

This allows us to serve others on larger scales while diversifying our income beyond 1 to 1 work.

I make podcasts and videos about business, tech, productivity, and lessons I'm learning from becoming the CEO of a lean, mean 5 person 100% remote team (we're not really mean..it just rhymed =P).

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Do you love learning new things but struggle to retain the information you’d like to remember for later use? This problem is an ever-present obstacle in my nerdy quest to accumulate knowledge. The good news? I’ve found something that works for me, and I’m sharing it in today’s show. Join me to learn more.

This is a solo episode about building a second brain. You may or may not have heard of this concept, but it has revolutionized my life. As I stick to my commitment of setting aside two hours every day to learn new things, I find that I can grow as a business owner, gain knowledge and expertise, become more proficient in offering valuable products and services, and improve my physical and mental health. The problem is that I can’t always remember everything I read, hear, and think. That’s where the magic of the second brain comes in to help. Let’s dive in.

You’ll Learn:

● How note-taking helps me remember things and stay organized

● How I was introduced to the “second brain concept” through the work of Ali Abdaal, a physician in England

● The basics of the second brain: Instead of feeling pressure to store accumulated knowledge in my brain, I can store it online in a digital brain

● How the second brain principles of productivity were developed by world-renowned productivity expert Tiago Forte, who has a free 10-part podcast on the topic (see Resources)

● Ten Principles in Building a Second Brain:

○ Borrowed creativity

○ The capture habit

○ Idea recycling

○ Projects over categories

○ Slow burns

○ Start with abundance

○ Intermediate packets

○ You only know what you make

○ Make things easier for your future self

○ Keep your ideas moving

● “The key is not to just consume content, but to personalize and recycle it.”

Resources mentioned:

Ali Abdaal

Forte Labs

Find the 10-part podcast series on Building a Second Brain at Forte Labs

Apps and tools recommended by Melvin:

For live transcription of Mastermind groups: Otter

For pulling highlights from Kindle books: Readwise

For capturing snippets of podcasts: Airr

For pulling highlights from blog posts: Instapaper

To use a central repository for information: Notion or Evernote or Roam Research.com

Transcript:Melvin:

Hey friends, welcome to session 264 of Selling the Couch, I hope that you are having a wonderful day. So today's episode is a solo one. And I wanted to start this episode by sharing a story or rather a scenario. As you may have figured out based on these podcasts episodes, I’m a little bit of a nerd when it comes to learning new things. And in fact, as Selling the Couch has grown and as I've really worked hard to create a schedule that's conducive to both doing things as well as ample time learning.

What I have actually tried to do is set aside two hours each afternoon to simply learn. And these days, I'm learning about podcasting, because, as you know, I'm a podcaster, and the world of podcasting is constantly growing. And so I think a lot about how to grow the STC podcast. I also have a course called Healthcasters, which helps you create and launch a successful podcast. And I'm learning a lot about online courses as well, because Healthcasters is an online course, and I'm constantly trying to figure out how to tweak things and all of those different things.

Then I actually have my second online course that's coming out in the future, with hopefully three to four more in the pipeline. And it's a course that's actually focused on helping you create, plan, launch and scale a successful online course. I know that most of us are really nerdy, and we're probably nerds just walking around as therapists.

I imagine, for you, if you're like me, which I imagine you are, you read through a lot of clinical stuff, a lot of business books, you go to a lot of trainings and conferences, and maybe you watch YouTube videos or live streams, or you listen to podcasts, or you read blog posts, or watch webinars, or however, the many ways that you can consume content. And I do this in the same way as you do so that I can grow as a business owner, I can get proficient when I offer products and services and gain knowledge and expertise that way, or just to improve my own physical or mental health.

Now I have a little bit of a confession which is; when I go to these things, generally I try to take notes, just because I find that taking notes and actively engaging with that material helps me to remember things a lot better. So I might jot down some notes at a conference or a training on some paper, or a Word document, or I might even - if I've got my laptop near me, I'll pull up the Notes app on my Mac, and just take some notes there.

Sometimes I use Evernote, or something like that to summarize a blog post that I want to incorporate into a future podcast episode or something for an online course or if I'm providing direct services, just something that I can reference later. Other times, I might even just put it in like a Google Drive document.

So here's the confession part in this episode; I try to take a lot of pride in just being organized, I find that just being organized makes business a lot easier, and my mental health just a lot better. But honestly, how I take notes and more specifically how I connect my past, current and future learning is not really very organized and in fact, I would say it's almost chaotic. And if I'm just being completely honest, there are times where I've taken notes in the past that I keep thinking, “Okay, I'm going to remember this and I got a reference this for something for the future,” and then I actually never do that, and it’s okay, I guess in some scenarios.

But to me, one is I’m just being honest, I don't have like the greatest memory where I can access all of this, like accumulated knowledge at the drop of a hat, and so I have to kind of take notes and in order to just remember things. I think, personally for me, and this is just something I've realized as a business owner, having a great way to take notes, and being able to access these notes when needed is really important. Because as healthcare professionals and business owners, we're knowledge workers, people seek our services based on our knowledge and expertise. We're also knowledge shares. So in other words, we accumulate this shared knowledge and we share it through various free mediums and through paid products and services.

So for example, let's say you go to a brain spotting training and you read an article later on brain spotting. And then later, you might listen to a podcast interview on somebody that has built a successful practice based on brain spotting. How do you take all of that knowledge? So how do you connect your past knowledge, your current knowledge and your future knowledge, so that you can make it easier to access this knowledge for your future self in however you want to use it, whether it's to incorporate it into a therapy session, or let's say you end up doing consults on brain spotting, or you want to plan some future content, or maybe you want to do some sort of a webinar or something just to explain, or even just create a simple video just explain to potential clients what brain spotting is.

But how do you do that? How do you take that knowledge and store it in an organized way so that you can access it when you need it? As I shared kind of at the beginning, this is something I've been thinking a lot about, especially now that I'm six years into my small business journey, I've crossed the five year mark, and I think one of the most important lessons I've learned as a small business owner, and as an online creator is that you have to optimize your environment and schedule for learning.

I came across this YouTube video in late 2020, from Ali Abdol, who when it was all about something called the second brain. Ali is actually a physician based in Cambridge, England, and he has over a million subscribers and the channel is a great one to check out, especially if you're interested in tech and productivity and learning and all of these different things. And I've been fortunate to actually meet Ali and we actually got on a zoom call fairly recently and it was just really nice just to be able to connect with him and just learn about some of the things that he's doing in the world.

And the second brain that Ali mentioned is simply this idea that instead of feeling all of this pressure to store accumulated knowledge in our brains, why not store this online in our digital brain in an organized way, so that we can maximize our output with it. And this way we maximize productivity, we maximize creativity, all of these different things.

The second brain concept is actually based on the work of Tiago Forte. His website is over at fortelabs.com, which is another blog that I highly recommend checking out. Tiago actually has this crazy expensive online course that goes into the second brain concept. I've heard really good things about it. Honestly just haven't had the financial resources to take it yet, I'm hoping to one day, because I tried to be really discretionary in terms of just taking online courses. But this is one of these things that it's absolutely changed the way that I look at my business and more specifically, it's absolutely changed the way that I look at learning.

Tiago also has a free 10 part podcast, like a mini podcasts. And I'll link to in the show notes for this episode that's well worth listening to. I've listened to those series; they're just basically 10 minute episodes. And I've listened to that about four or five times just to really wrap my mind around this. Today, I actually want to share the 10 principles, of how you can build a second brain and just briefly share how I'm actually employing this in my own business so that it can help you as well.

The first principle is something called borrowed creativity. Borrowed creativity is basically this idea that creativity is less about original ideas, but more about blending existing ideas to create novel connections. Basically, you take things that you see here and watch. You see them through your experience and perspectives and connect them in new and unique ways. For example, I didn't realize I was doing this at the time. But my first online course was, as I mentioned was a course on how to plan launch and generate income from podcasting. So I took notes that I had learned from going to a bunch of podcasting conferences, from mentors that I had done consult with, from people that I consider experts in the podcasting space. And then I used all my own experiences in creating and growing the Selling the Couch podcast.

But by having these notes digitally, I could then visually see things and form patterns and create. Then when I was ready to create the course I could create the course based on my unit bent and my own unique experiences.

Principle two is called the capture habit. And one of the most honoring things that I think we can all do as business owners is to write down every idea that pops up in our brain without judgment, just the act of saying, “Hey, this is a great idea brain, I'm going to write this down,” is so powerful. So the capture habit is basically this idea that every time you have an idea that comes in your mind, no matter how silly or any of those things that it seems, at the time, trying to just find a good and simple system to be able to write these things down. This does not come naturally for me, because I have a very strong critical voice that often says, “Oh, Melvin, that's a really dumb idea, or, oh, no one's going to pay for that. Or someone's already thought of that. So why are you trying to do that again?”

Or sometimes I convince myself, “Oh, Mel, this is a good idea. You can remember it later.” But the reality is, I hardly ever remember it later and so it usually then ends up getting lost. Now I'm still trying to figure out a great way to have a good capture habit, but I wanted to at least share a little bit about how I'm capturing ideas depending on where I am.

So I get a lot of ideas in the shower, and I keep shower markers to write things down that come to mind, because I noticed that my mind goes into creativity hyper drive when I'm in the shower; I'm calm, I'm relaxed and all of those different things. And shower markers are basically these markers that you can use to write on glass, or on tile. And the cool thing is they wash off when you're done. Usually what I do is I'll jot down ideas and on the tile, and then after I'm done taking a shower or whatever, I will take my phone and take a picture of it, and then I'll wash it or whatever. The shower is actually how I came up with the name Selling the Couch, and so I really do try to think about how I can alter that shower type.

The second thing is I usually do masterminds with various folks during the week talking a walk. Specifically I try to do many of these when taking a walk. I'll do a future episode on this. But there are a lot of benefits of hiking, and creativity. And so what I've been trying to do, actually pretty much most days of the week is I do a 1pm hike and that's usually my mastermind time as well. And what I do is we usually meet on zoom, and I use otter.ai to do live transcription of what we're talking about during the mastermind. After the mastermind, I have a fairly flawless script; otter.ai uses artificial intelligence. So it's not like a real person transcribing. But it's pretty accurate and I can then use this transcript to pull things from. I can then go back later or do this even in real time and highlight things and pull things into my central repository.

So usually during masterminds, what I'm doing is I'm asking a question that I'm struggling with in my business, and I'm getting feedback from my mastermind friends. Then I take that piece of advice and then I put that into my central repository. I use an app called Readwise to pull highlights from Kindle books that I'm reading. I use an app called Airr, A-I-R-R to capture snippets of podcasts that I hear. I capture blog posts using Instapaper, which is a really cool app that lets you clip blog posts and videos that you want to check out later, perhaps during your own learning time. I believe Instapaper is still something I've just recently downloaded. But I also believe you can actually copy or you can actually like clip tweets, things that you might find on Pinterest, all of these into like a central repository.

So basically what I'm trying to do is I'm trying to use these different pieces of software to capture ideas in environments that I'm usually in, and then I'm taking those ideas into a central repository. And that central repository that I use is called Notion, N-O-T-I-O-N. There are a bunch of different ones. Evernote is a really common one as well. There's one called Roam Research that is well worth checking out. I like Notion because I feel like for me, I like having structure and I also like having a little bit of unstructured or chaos in structure and so I feel like Notion is kind of a good balance of those kind of things.

So principle three is this idea of idea of recycling. So in other words, you can reuse or repurpose ideas in multiple ways. So for example, I've spent quite a bit of time researching and scripting for this podcast episode. I'm doing this because I'm planning on using second brain concepts into future videos that I might create, or as part of an online course. So for example, as part of my Healthcasters course, one of the pieces of content I'll likely create is how do you come up with new podcast episode ideas without starting with a blank canvas?

The best way to think about idea recycling is I was trying to figure out a good image. And when I was a kid I used to love Connex. I don't know if you remember Connex, but they're like Legos, but they have blocks, rods, and these various different shapes and you can use them to create things like a simple car, or a Ferris wheel.

The only reason I remember this is my AP physics teacher passed away really recently, and I saw social media posts and it reminded me of this project I did in AP Physics, when I had Mr. Renshaw. And it was, I created a mousetrap car out of connects and connects comes with these gear sets and so I basically use like CDs, to create this mousetrap car, and got this mousetrap car to go down this hallway using gears and stuff. But so think of your ideas like pieces of Connex or Legos, and you can then swap out those ideas in and out of like different situations.

Principle four is projects over categories. One of the roadblocks that I was having with my previous way of taking notes was how I organize things. So for example, let's say I wanted to learn more about Instagram, what I used to do was I have a folder called Instagram, and then I put a bunch of stuff in there and that's where it set me never looking at it again. Instead, what second brain says is thinking projects. So what I should do is if I have my Healthcasters online course folder. I should have a folder called Healthcasters online course, and then put the content that I find into those, because it will further enrich that course.

And going back to principle one of borrowed creativity, I can more easily form connections between ideas. So another example of this would be let's say that you are creating a productivity course for entrepreneurs who are held back by their trauma. Instead of separate folders for productivity and trauma, you actually create a folder for your online course, and put related ideas in there. And that way, you are accumulating all of this store's knowledge over time, and when you are ready to create that course, you actually have a nice repository to work from. And it's literally like then, like pieces of Legos or Connex, where you're just connecting these pieces in order to form your online course.

Principle five is called slow burn. So think of your business products and services as slow burns versus heavy lifts. This is what the language that

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Today’s show covers a topic that always brings out the nerd in me. If you are an STC regular, then you know the importance I place on my video and audio gear. With the future of our field being that telehealth is here to stay, a quality home studio setup can help you stand out in your field. For me, the quality of my studio has evolved over the years as I’ve had more money to invest. Join the conversation to learn how to take your videos to the next level by building a dream home studio.

Our Featured Guest

Kevin Shen

Kevin Shen is a consultant who has been producing online videos for more than ten years, doing most of his work on YouTube. He has developed courses to teach what he has learned about making powerful videos and building a professional quality studio. He shares why a professional studio matters, along with practical considerations to make if building a home studio is on your radar for the future.

Dream Studio Course

You’ll Learn:

Why a professional video studio matters

Why online video content is like time travel and space travel

How a video studio for therapy helps people who haven’t been served well by traditional talk therapy

Three tips for creating a dream home studio:

Design your studio around your needs for your workflow.

Realize that video allows you to create a space for viewers as you get their attention to your face.

Lighting should create depth through a large, diffused light source.

How your video components can work to create trust from someone you have never met before

Kevin’s course, Dream Studio Course, a cohort that teaches the structure and steps of building a dream home studio

Additional resources mentioned:

Find out about my gear and software: Kit.co/mvarghese

You can purchase Kevin’s course AND help STC: Dream Studio Course

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)

MY FREE GUIDES:🎤 Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide

🖥️ The A To Z Online Course

MY COURSES:🎧 The Healthcasters (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers):

💻 Online Course School (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!):

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:🧳 My Podcast Hosting Platform (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial):

🚀 My All In One Online Business Platform (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial):

🤖 What I Use For Evergreen Webinars (Easy Webinar)

🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount)

🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:❤️ STC Home Office Tour!

📔 My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear

🎥 My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room.

The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries.

You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. =

Or simply click below for ease =).

SUBSCRIBE HERE

LET'S BE FRIENDS:💌 Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter (trusted by over 7k colleagues)

🌍 My website / blog

📸 Instagram (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online creator living in Philadelphia, PA.

In 2014, I began to think about how to use the therapy skills we learn in grad school, and in our clinical work into different realms (e.g., podcasting, consulting, online course creation, etc).

This allows us to serve others on larger scales while diversifying our income beyond 1 to 1 work.

I make podcasts and videos about business, tech, productivity, and lessons I'm learning from becoming the CEO of a lean, mean 5 person 100% remote team (we're not really mean..it just rhymed =P).

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As rewarding as it is to start your own podcast and share your knowledge and expertise with the world, there is one thing that makes it even better--and that’s monetizing your podcast. Wouldn’t it be a dream come true to make money from your podcast? You might think it’s the impossible dream, but today’s show brings practical information and simple tips for monetization that can expand your reach, extend the life of your podcast, and free up more of your time for quality content creation.

Christy Haussler is the founder of Team Podcast, a full-service podcast editing and production company. She’s been my podcast editor since 2015, when I realized I needed help with podcast editing. Christy and her team work behind the scenes to produce, edit, and upload podcasts, and they are the main reason the STC podcast goes out each week. Christy began her podcast editing service around the same time as STC, and her team currently edits about 60 different podcasts and about 300 episodes each month. Christy has a unique and interesting perspective on what people are doing to create income through podcasting, and she’s here to share those insights with us.

Mentioned in this episode:

You're Invited to Join the Mastermind!

Looking for a group of likeminded clinicians to help you grow your practice? You're in the right place. Check it out at https://sellingthecouch.com/mastermind.

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What are your “money stories”? This is a topic many of us struggle with related to the stories we tell ourselves about money. Our money beliefs affect everything about our practice, our work as business owners, and how we view and work with our clients. Let’s dig in and address the issues around our money beliefs so that we can better serve our clients and ourselves.

Deb Lyman, LCSW, has a private practice in Oakland, CA. She does a lot of work with clinicians, helping them work through their money stories to charge what they are worth. In today’s conversation, Deb explains why we need to understand our money stories and how to set private practice fees in order to honor our stories and our emotions. She shares an interesting conceptualization of money in the personal, business, and clinical realms. We wrap up today’s show with Deb’s helpful tips about money. Join us!

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In this episode of Selling the Couch, we have our first repeat guest - Ker Nola.  Keri is back today to discuss ways to grow your practice through retreats, workshops and groups.  She shares a lot of great ideas about this new revenue stream for your practice.

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Welcome! My guest today is Dana Hampson, who is inprivate practice in Alabama. Our topic is increasing efficiency in the day to day operation of a private practice. Efficiency is not a common topic, but the lack of it can waste time, lead to burnout, etc. Dana has had to learn how to run an efficient practice, as she employs four other clinicians. She readily admits to being an “efficiency nerd,” so let’s hear what Dana has to say!

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Welcome! I’m glad to be back on the podcast after a break over the holidays, and I wish you each a Happy 2017 as we start off this year together! My guest today is Cathy Hanville, LCSW, in Albany, NY. Cathy is very knowledgeable about websites and SEO, and I think her expertise will be helpful to anyone in private practice. Join us now!

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The concept of using telemedicine for mental health clinicians has become very relevant due to the coronavirus pandemic. Unfortunately, meeting clients this way is something that is not just temporary; clinicians need to make this transition and set themselves up for successful telemedicine for the future.

Roy Huggins has been at the forefront of telemedicine and how to do it ethically. In today’s show, he’ll share practical measures to take, like setting up your computer and tablet. He’ll also share tips around the expectations of telemedicine mental health and how to reframe those expectations for our new normal.

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Chances are you’ve thought about today’s topic at least once, or you may have your own similar experience. Many clinicians have gone through the transition from a full-time job into private practice. Today’s show is all about navigating the ups and downs of this important move.

Tricia Miller is a LIcensed Professional Counselor in Houston, Texas. She has a unique background, with an undergrad degree in business, a job as a business analyst, and a stint as a school counselor. It was here that she realized she wanted to take the next step and start her private practice. Today’s show covers the steps in Tricia’s journey, what she’s learned along the way, and what the transition looked like for her. Tricia also shares how she worked through the fine line of disclosure.

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I can’t believe it’s here----Episode 200! I’m thrilled to have made it this far in my journey and to have so many of you along with me. Podcasting has made me more confident as a person and a speaker, and I’m thankful for the ways I’ve grown on this path. Today’s topic is one I’m very passionate about, and you’ve heard it mentioned many times on the show. We’re discussing what a clinician needs to have in place before scaling to multiple income streams.

Nicole Liloia, LCSW, practices in New Jersey. She’s someone whose advice I trust regarding creating multiple income streams, which is becoming more and more common for those in private practice. We don’t often think about the groundwork that needs to be laid before we take that step, but systems and processes must be in place for things to flow smoothly. Each income stream brings its own level of stress, which must be managed. In today’s conversation, we’re discussing the biggest advantages to creating additional income streams, things to be aware of, and the most important things to have in place before branching out.

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Today’s show is a live coaching call regarding a topic that has been very relevant to me recently. We are talking about the many nuances of online courses. I hope this episode will be helpful to you and bring new ideas if an online course is on your radar.

Our Featured Guest-Kristen Boice, LMFT

Kristen Boice is a therapist in private practice and a fellow podcaster. She has realized the need among her listeners for an online course. Her podcast, Close the Chapter, is about closing the chapter on certain things in our lives so we can open ourselves up to new opportunities. In today’s coaching call, I’ll share some lessons I’ve learned along the way about online courses. We’ll talk about the rationale behind creating a live course vs. a pre-recorded one. We will wrap up with a pre-launch strategy to help get buyers for your course before you launch.

Pathways To Healing Counseling

Kristen Boice

You’ll Learn

● Why Kristen started her podcast about two years ago to provide another opportunity for deeper work for her clients

● How an online course can help you get more information out to curious people

● The options for your course and other services

● Why niching down is a big challenge for therapists

● How Kristen sees the epidemic of people feeling “not good enough” and being scared to speak up

● How a niche can help you offer value and find your sweet spot

● How the best courses take people from one place to another

● Why Kristen focuses on helping with the hard conversations

● How to use phraseology that appeals to people and addresses their need

● Step-by-step actions to build your email list and create effective opt-ins

● How to create value on the front end of your course by validating your content

Today's Sponsor: Online Course School

I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work.

Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting started: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course.

Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops from Mel

and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done. By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course.

We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with six members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a part of, please check out my free A to Z Online Course Guide.

The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021.

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY

Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide

🖥️ The A To Z Online Course

MY COURSES:

🎧 The Healthcasters (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers):

💻 Online Course School (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!):

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 My Podcast Hosting Platform (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial):

🚀 My All In One Online Business Platform (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial):

🤖 What I Use For Evergreen Webinars (Easy Webinar)

🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount)

🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ STC Home Office Tour!

📔 My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear

🎥 My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room.

The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries.

You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. =

Or simply click below for ease =).

SUBSCRIBE HERE

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter (trusted by over 7k colleagues)

🌍 My website / blog

📸 Instagram (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY?

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online creator living in Philadelphia, PA.

In 2014, I began to think about how to use the therapy skills we learn in grad school, and in our clinical work into different realms (e.g., podcasting, consulting, online course creation, etc).

This allows us to serve others on larger scales while diversifying our income beyond 1 to 1 work.

I make podcasts and videos about business, tech, productivity, and lessons I'm learning from becoming the CEO of a lean, mean 5 person 100% remote team (we're not really mean..it just rhymed =P).

View Details

With today’s technology, most people rely on online reviews when it comes to products, services, restaurants, hotels, and much more. When it comes to clinicians and clients, online reviews can reveal a lot, but is that a good thing? Do people mainly leave online reviews when they are upset or dissatisfied with the service they have received? Join us for a deeper look at this issue on today’s show.

Dr. Keely Kolmes is a Licensed Psychologist in California. They did research via anonymous surveys about the experience of therapy clients who had accessed personal or professional information about therapists. We’re taking a close look at the results of the survey, how these results are interpreted, and how these results can help improve your private practice.

www.sellingthecouch.com/session223

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Today’s show is the first of a two-part series about livestreaming. I jumped somewhat hesitantly into this world a few months ago, and surprisingly, I’ve enjoyed this new outlet. Join me as I share what I’ve learned about livestreaming.

I was nervous about starting The STC Online Income Stream because I am usually self-conscious on video. I’ve become more comfortable and more familiar with being in front of the camera over these months of livestreaming. My livestream focuses on podcasting and online courses, but I have plans to expand into other content areas. The current format is set for 15-minute talks about growing our impact and income beyond the therapy room, sharing tips and strategies that have proven to be successful. Today’s episode is all about the technical gear needed to set up a livestream, and next week’s Part 2 will focus on livestream content creation.

www.sellingthecouch.com/session258

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This is the follow-up to last week’s podcast about creating a professional livestream. We’ve already covered the gear you’ll need, so today’s show focuses on creating the content for your livestream. Join me for Part 2!

If you listened to Episode 258, you might be saying, “OK, Melvin, I have the gear, so what else do I need to do to prep for my livestream?” I’m glad you asked! After only doing livestreams for a few months, I’ve already learned a lot (including some very cool timesaving hacks and helpful tools), and I’m eager to share those experiences with you.

www.sellingthecouch.com/session259

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Welcome to Session 300! I never even imagined reaching this point, and I’m very grateful to be at this milestone. I love everything about connecting with people through podcasting, so thank you for joining me on this journey. Today’s show is a coaching call about online courses and the imposter syndrome that sneaks in with fear and doubt. Join us to learn more!

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call:

Nikki Sewell, LCSW

Nikki Sewell was part of our beta group for Online Course School’s eight-week live experience where we went through each step from start to finish in setting up your online course. Nikki is ready to get her pilot students into her course, but she has encountered a lot of fear around charging her worth for her grief course for therapists. Nikki built a successful private practice focusing on the niche of grief counseling, motivated by losing her father to suicide during her grad school years and suddenly losing her husband at age 41 back in 2013. Join the coaching call with Nikki and Melvin!

Nikki Sewell

You’ll Learn:

● How Nikki found her niche in grief counseling with widows, suicide survivors, and orphaned adults

● Why Nikki views her grief counseling work as something beautiful that empowers people to see “what’s lost, what’s left, and what’s possible”

● How Nikki decided to create her online course to help other grief and trauma therapists

● Why the best online courses combine clinical training with personal experience–like Nikki is doing

● How money blocks, shame, and internal voices get in the way to create imposter syndrome for Nikki

● The new perspective: Nikki’s course is helping clinicians to become better clinicians, help their clients more fully, and become better business owners (who make more money)

● Why we struggle with shame in charging what we are worth because we are a “helping profession”

● How Nikki can implement the same steps in charging for her online course that she employed in establishing her private practice

● How to take a “ladder view” of our expertise and experience, realizing that there are always people on lower rungs who need your help

● Why it’s better to take the tortoise approach and pace yourself in launching a course

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):?️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

? How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)

MY FREE GUIDES:? Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide

?️ The A To Z Online Course

MY...

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One of the new things for STC this year is the incorporation of coaching calls into the podcast from time to time. Join us for a glimpse into today’s coaching call about online courses.

Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call

Heather McKenzie, LCMHCS

Heather McKenzie came through Online Course School as a beta student back in the fall of 2021. Online Course School is a live, eight-week experience that takes your online course from a simple idea all the way through the development stages so that you are ready to record. Heather created a course specifically focused on anxiety that can be found at Dial Down Anxiety. Like most of us who create an online course, she faced a common struggle about how to handle marketing time and costs to promote her course. Join us to hear the coaching call!

McKenzie Counseling

You’ll Learn:

• How to handle logistical challenges in the online presentation of your course
• Why Heather’s course is an eight-week course to help people understand anxiety and DBT emotion regulation skills
• How marketing options for an online course can be overwhelming for most people
• How to pinpoint your own superpowers in teaching and the style that works best for you
• How to structure the content levels for promoting your course in six-month blocks:
• Start with webinars, both free and paid.
• Offer a downloadable guide or cheat sheet.
• Use a core blog post as a stand-alone feature that blows people away.
• Tips from Melvin about content levels:
• Offering too many things can confuse people, so stick with one core webinar.
• Less is more!
• Be thoughtful about using the words “webinar” and “workshop” so as not to intimidate people.
• Link your blog post videos to YouTube to drive more traffic back to your webinar.
• Consider that high-quality offerings through webinars, guides, and blog posts help to establish your authority as an expert and give people value that keeps them returning.
• How podcasting can help with future promotion by giving a call-to-action to your webinar
• Why you need to take notes during the first offering of your course with beta students to know what content resonates the most; that content can be used for future free webinars
• In summary, five tools to market an online course that have evergreen potential:
• Webinar (start with live ones and then transition to evergreen ones)
• Downloadable guides or cheat sheets
• Core blog post
• Select podcast episodes
• Mini-podcast

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)

MY FREE GUIDES:🎤

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Today’s show covers lessons I have learned from launching a successful cohort-based course (CBC). The process takes a lot of work but is very rewarding, so if a CBC is in your future, don’t miss this episode.

You’ll Learn:

● How I launched my first online course, The Healthcasters, in 2015, even though I felt like an inadequate novice

● How Online Course School launched in late 2021, with 16 workshops for nine colleagues in the beta cohort group

● Ten lessons learned from my CBC launch:

○ Get your beta students through your email list, previous courses, and Mastermind class colleagues.

○ Screen the participants well. (I did this through one-on-one Zoom calls.)

○ Do welcome calls with breakout rooms, so the students get to know each other.

○ Keep the CBC length around 6-8 weeks, or structure a break after a few weeks if it is longer.

○ Have an assistant with you on all workshops.

○ Tier your support for students at multiple levels.

○ Start with the “I do/we do/you do” framework for teaching.

○ Prep your lessons ahead of time before the cohort begins–not at the same time.

○ Don’t get too high with the highs or too low with the lows.

○ Charge your worth.

Resources mentioned:

Accelerator programs through Maven

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)

MY FREE GUIDES:🎤 Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide

🖥️ The A To Z Online Course

MY COURSES:🎧 The Healthcasters (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers):

💻 Online Course School (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!):

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:🧳 My Podcast Hosting Platform (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial):

🚀 My All In One Online Business Platform...

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This episode is the last one before I take an extended break for a few months. The plan is to be back in April 2023, with exciting, brand-new STC episodes. I think rest is important in the human journey AND the entrepreneurial journey, so I’m looking forward to some extra downtime after podcasting regularly for seven years and hitting the 1.5 million download mark. Unbelievable! Thank you from the bottom of my heart! This is my life’s work and my great privilege to serve you, my colleagues.  Today’s episode takes a closer look at a major passion of mine: online courses. Let’s talk about the important questions to ask–and answer–before launching an online course. Join me! You’ll Learn: How online courses can help fill in the gap for those who need mental health services 7 Questions to Ask Before Launching an Online Course: Have people paid me one-on-one for this course idea? Can I see myself being in this space for 10+ years? Is this course idea confronting a “massive pain” vs. an “annoying inconvenience” for my audience? Can this population afford the course I’m selling? Do they have purchasing power? Is this a population that is easy to target and find online? Is my course idea a growing concern/need for my audience? Are there others out there creating information products for this niche? Further details about thehttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind ( STC Elite Mastermind) for therapists who are creating online courses (The next launch is scheduled for Spring 2023.) 

If you aren’t ready for the mastermind-level commitment, check out myhttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseworkshop ( FREE Webinar) about creating online courses.

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Today’s topic is very relevant in our post-pandemic world. Many clinicians are left wondering if their best work lies in the clinical field or the coaching/consulting arena. I’ve felt this dilemma myself, pondering how to balance my interests, endeavors, and the evolution of family life. I realized that I couldn’t sustain multiple paths, and I made the hard decision to give up my clinical work. If you are struggling along those same lines, I hope today’s show gives you insights, clarity, and encouragement. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Angela Williams, LCSW Angela Williams is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Orlando, Florida. She has made the transition from clinician to coach, and she now works with other therapists who are making the same change in their lives. Angela shares her thoughts about why so many clinicians are leaving for the world of coaching, along with the biggest roadblocks that may come up on this path. She gives her best tips for overcoming those big roadblocks and recommends several books as helpful resources. 

https://angelamarie.co/ (Website)

You’ll Learn:

Why so many therapists are becoming coaches How the therapy field, with its inherent regulations, contains many barriers to providing services to clients—and coaching is different The biggest mental roadblock for Angela in moving from clinician to coach Why each clinician feels like the “insecure expert” and has to intentionally build up their confidence Why it’s challenging to become an online, visible brand rather than a care provider What holds clinicians back the most and presents the biggest roadblocks How a mindset coach can help us rewrite our roadblocks into our success story How perfectionism, fear of failure, and standards of success can prevent us from taking action Why money blocks and financial literacy play into our beliefs about money Why the fear of success can be just as crippling as the fear of failure Books recommended by Angela:  The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks, Get Rich, Lucky Bitch by Denise Duffield-Thomas, and You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero

Mentioned in this episode: We'd Like to Thank Today's Sponsor Just because you own a private practice, it doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice. There's a lot of nuts and bolts to getting great outcomes and a stellar income. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. You need a rock solid plan that is actionable, measurable and doable! On Sept. 19-22, Kelly and Miranda from zynnyme are hosting a free training on how to create a business plan in less than one hour. This live series contains a specialized training for each phase of practice from starting a counseling practice or growing a private practice to loving your successful practice, and transforming your group practice. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you're there, you can also join the interest list for their Business School for Therapists - an all-in-one resource for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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I think often about legacy in providing STC as a resource for our field and being of service to our colleagues. The same desire for a lasting legacy drives me to connect with good people who are doing great things in the world, which is what this podcast is all about. Today’s conversation, with two of those good people, focuses on a common issue for clinicians in referring out clients. If you are looking to do referrals in a better way, this session will give you valuable information. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guests Anna O’Brien  Jim Pasquarella Anna O’Brien and Jim Pasquarella live and work locally in the Philly area as a clinician and commercial real estate developer, respectively. They have created a resource called The Consult List, which addresses a common problem for clinicians. “Referring out” clients to other colleagues is something every clinician faces, but what’s the best way to do it?  Anna and Jim will share with us how they created The Consult List for clinicians to use in making sure the clients we serve are getting appropriate and helpful referrals. This resource allows clinicians to harness the power of their community and streamline the referral process. They will explain how the resource handles issues like data privacy and protection, and we will discuss how they are monetizing this free resource.

http://theconsultlist.com/ (Website)

You’ll Learn:

The story behind The Consult List and how it came to be as Anna and Jim teamed up to improve access to mental health services How Jim’s efforts are inspired by the memory of his mom’s tireless dedication in caring for others How Anna and Jim met through the shared vision of making a vacant building into an affordable wellness center to serve the local community What The Consult List is and how it helps clinicians with referrals How the client can interact with The Consult List What a prospective clinician would have access to on The Consult List in keeping safety and privacy in mind for the prospective client How the location parameters are set for clinicians and clients on The Consult List Why The Consult List is free in its essential version and offers a premium membership with extra features How data is protected on this referral platform

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I think often about legacy in providing STC as a resource for our field and being of service to our colleagues. The same desire for a lasting legacy drives me to connect with good people who are doing great things in the world, which is what this podcast is all about. Today’s conversation, with two of those good people, focuses on a common issue for clinicians in referring out clients. If you are looking to do referrals in a better way, this session will give you valuable information. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guests Anna O’Brien  Jim Pasquarella Anna O’Brien and Jim Pasquarella live and work locally in the Philly area as a clinician and commercial real estate developer, respectively. They have created a resource called The Consult List, which addresses a common problem for clinicians. “Referring out” clients to other colleagues is something every clinician faces, but what’s the best way to do it?  Anna and Jim will share with us how they created The Consult List for clinicians to use in making sure the clients we serve are getting appropriate and helpful referrals. This resource allows clinicians to harness the power of their community and streamline the referral process. They will explain how the resource handles issues like data privacy and protection, and we will discuss how they are monetizing this free resource.

http://theconsultlist.com/ (Website)

You’ll Learn:

The story behind The Consult List and how it came to be as Anna and Jim teamed up to improve access to mental health services How Jim’s efforts are inspired by the memory of his mom’s tireless dedication in caring for others How Anna and Jim met through the shared vision of making a vacant building into an affordable wellness center to serve the local community What The Consult List is and how it helps clinicians with referrals How the client can interact with The Consult List What a prospective clinician would have access to on The Consult List in keeping safety and privacy in mind for the prospective client How the location parameters are set for clinicians and clients on The Consult List Why The Consult List is free in its essential version and offers a premium membership with extra features How data is protected on this referral platform

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I still call myself a Twitter newbie because I haven’t been there for very long, but I’ve been honored to connect with amazing people holding full and varied skill sets. I’m chatting with one of them in today’s session, someone who has helped me learn what I was doing wrong on Twitter and how I can improve. If you need Twitter help, too, join us to learn more about standing out on Twitter! Our Featured Guest Aadit Sheth Aadit Sheth is a 21-year-old engineering student who started on Twitter only a couple of years ago. He has built a following of over 200,000 by focusing on the life optimization habits of top entrepreneurs. Aadit shares with us about Twitter threads and how they work to make this social media platform one of the top ways to network and stay current with technology, productivity, and business.

http://www.aaditsheth.com (Website)

You’ll Learn:

How Aadit decided that Twitter would be his “place” How Aadit began by engaging with people he admired on Twitter and finding ways to provide value to them How to build strong connections through a “permission-less action” approach A basic understanding of Twitter threads vs. single tweets Aadit’s best tips for writing threads and hooks on Twitter–”80% of the performance of a thread is driven by the hook.” Why you should identify the emotion you want to evoke and the purpose of your thread hook (i.e. counterintuitive, suspenseful, successes, novelty) An example of a thread idea in a specific niche for mental health providers How to use templates to help find a balance between perfectionism and spontaneity in writing Twitter threads How to combat the crippling pressure to write the perfect Twitter thread by repurposing your content An overview of Aadit’s work, including the Maker’s Mark agency and course on audience building for creators and founders

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s topic is inspired by a Twitter thread I wrote about a life-changing event in our family when our daughter began preschool recently. Since she was born prematurely, going through the NICU experience four years ago coupled with the demands of entrepreneurship brought me to the realization that things had to change. The season of life that was one of the hardest things became the best thing to help me reevaluate and realign my life and goals. As much as I love my work, I wanted my life to be about much more than my work. Join me to learn how shifting my work week has made me a better entrepreneur, husband, father, and person.  You’ll Learn:

Business becomes more complicated with more time.  “You don’t have to suffer in order to succeed.” For any task, look to automate, delegate, eliminate, or systemize. There are more metrics than money.  “Not everything that counts can be counted.” The time I’ve spent and the memories I’ve made with my daughter are priceless. Creativity time is essential. Time to explore and be curious should be an intentional part of the day/week.  Giving your mind time for creativity and play will help you make better business decisions. Business doesn’t have all the answers. Work will not fulfill you in every aspect of life.  “Don’t build your life around your business; build your business to support your life.” Simplicity is key. Concise communication is essential for people to understand you. “Be clear, not clever.” Seasons don’t last. Entrepreneurship is a roller coaster ride, but time will pass quickly. “Focus on the present and be grateful for now.” The courage of a child is inspiring. Be resilient like a child, and get back up when you fall down. “The only way to fail in building a business is by refusing to get back up.”

Mentioned in this episode: We'd Like to Thank Today's Sponsor Just because you own a private practice, it doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice. There's a lot of nuts and bolts to getting great outcomes and a stellar income. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. You need a rock solid plan that is actionable, measurable and doable! On Sept. 19-22, Kelly and Miranda from zynnyme are hosting a free training on how to create a business plan in less than one hour. This live series contains a specialized training for each phase of practice from starting a counseling practice or growing a private practice to loving your successful practice, and transforming your group practice. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you're there, you can also join the interest list for their Business School for Therapists - an all-in-one resource for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s topic is inspired by a Twitter thread I wrote about a life-changing event in our family when our daughter began preschool recently. Since she was born prematurely, going through the NICU experience four years ago coupled with the demands of entrepreneurship brought me to the realization that things had to change. The season of life that was one of the hardest things became the best thing to help me reevaluate and realign my life and goals. As much as I love my work, I wanted my life to be about much more than my work. Join me to learn how shifting my work week has made me a better entrepreneur, husband, father, and person.  You’ll Learn:

Business becomes more complicated with more time.  “You don’t have to suffer in order to succeed.” For any task, look to automate, delegate, eliminate, or systemize. There are more metrics than money.  “Not everything that counts can be counted.” The time I’ve spent and the memories I’ve made with my daughter are priceless. Creativity time is essential. Time to explore and be curious should be an intentional part of the day/week.  Giving your mind time for creativity and play will help you make better business decisions. Business doesn’t have all the answers. Work will not fulfill you in every aspect of life.  “Don’t build your life around your business; build your business to support your life.” Simplicity is key. Concise communication is essential for people to understand you. “Be clear, not clever.” Seasons don’t last. Entrepreneurship is a roller coaster ride, but time will pass quickly. “Focus on the present and be grateful for now.” The courage of a child is inspiring. Be resilient like a child, and get back up when you fall down. “The only way to fail in building a business is by refusing to get back up.”

Mentioned in this episode: We'd Like to Thank Today's Sponsor Just because you own a private practice, it doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice. There's a lot of nuts and bolts to getting great outcomes and a stellar income. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. You need a rock solid plan that is actionable, measurable and doable! On Sept. 19-22, Kelly and Miranda from zynnyme are hosting a free training on how to create a business plan in less than one hour. This live series contains a specialized training for each phase of practice from starting a counseling practice or growing a private practice to loving your successful practice, and transforming your group practice. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you're there, you can also join the interest list for their Business School for Therapists - an all-in-one resource for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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“Will anyone listen to it? How can I grow my audience?” These are the questions that badger everyone who starts a podcast, and even though I am a veteran podcaster of several years, I know there is a lot of room to grow. The good news is that there are people who can help us learn by sharing their knowledge and experience. My guest today has answers to your biggest questions about growing and marketing your podcast. It’s easier than you think! Join us! Our Featured Guest Jeremy Enns

Jeremy Enns is a podcast marketing strategist for scrappy brands, networks, and creators who are looking to punch above their weight. He has helped his clients generate over 50 million podcast downloads and millions of dollars in revenue. By working with many different podcasters, Jeremy has learned what works best in podcast growth, and he’s here to share his top tips for growing a podcast strategically and intentionally. 

https://counterweightcreative.co/ (Website)

You’ll Learn:

Jeremy’s outlook on the fate of the podcasting industry–Is podcasting here to stay? Why people from different platforms are getting into podcasting to build long-term engagement Jeremy’s tips for beginning podcasters: Have realistic expectations. “The root of unhappiness is misaligned expectations.” Think of podcasting as a five-year plan for learning a new skill—and appreciate the intangibles. Think of marketing as just another way of creatively communicating ideas to help the people you want to serve. Find ways to make marketing fun for you. Use the writing methods that work best for you. Be an active participant in communities where you feel comfortable and always look for one-on-one conversation opportunities. “Go live in the world where your people already are.”

An overview of Jeremy’s upcoming workshop, The Minimalist Podcast Marketing Method, and his flagship course, Podcast Marketing Academy Mentioned in this episode: We'd Like to Thank Today's Sponsor Just because you own a private practice, it doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice. There's a lot of nuts and bolts to getting great outcomes and a stellar income. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. You need a rock solid plan that is actionable, measurable and doable! On Sept. 19-22, Kelly and Miranda from zynnyme are hosting a free training on how to create a business plan in less than one hour. This live series contains a specialized training for each phase of practice from starting a counseling practice or growing a private practice to loving your successful practice, and transforming your group practice. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you're there, you can also join the interest list for their Business School for Therapists - an all-in-one resource for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s topic is a fascinating one for me. As therapists, we are wired for stories, but telling an effective story online is a struggle for many of us. Fortunately for us, my guest has wisdom and tips to share to help us become awesome storytellers. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Kieran Drew

Kieran Drew lives in Leeds, England, and is my writing coach for Twitter. In an interesting career twist, he was a dentist who left behind his stressful, work-filled life to become a copywriter/storyteller. My first connection to Kieran came through the viral story he wrote about his unique medical experiences as a teenager. He is a talented storyteller who has helped my writing immensely, and I know his insights will be helpful to anyone looking to improve their writing. 

https://www.kierandrew.com/ (Website)

You’ll Learn: Why Kieran made the unconventional transition from dentist to copywriter/storyteller An overview of Kieran’s spinal issues involving a tumor, surgeries, and titanium rods—this is the experience that helped him discover storytelling and a new love for life 3 tips to become a better storyteller: Make a story bank by writing down everything that happens to you with specific details. Cut through the noise to impart a lesson.  Even in sales, start every point with a story.  How specific details make your stories more impactful How to draw a “lesson” from each story How storytelling breaks down skepticism and improves your selling ability How storytelling can be your differentiator in the online world A storytelling template: what happened/the lesson, why people should care, and a call to action How Kieran reviews his story bank to choose his next story

Mentioned in this episode: We'd Like to Thank Today's Sponsor Just because you own a private practice, it doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice. There's a lot of nuts and bolts to getting great outcomes and a stellar income. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. You need a rock solid plan that is actionable, measurable and doable! On Sept. 19-22, Kelly and Miranda from zynnyme are hosting a free training on how to create a business plan in less than one hour. This live series contains a specialized training for each phase of practice from starting a counseling practice or growing a private practice to loving your successful practice, and transforming your group practice. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you're there, you can also join the interest list for their Business School for Therapists - an all-in-one resource for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s session is a coaching call, and our main focus is on a struggle that many course creators face. When you are an expert in your course content, how do you find the balance in presenting information without overwhelming your students? I feel sure that every course creator has felt this struggle, so I hope you find today’s call to be helpful. Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call:

Heather England, Ph.D., LCP, LCPC, CST, CDWF

Dr. Heather England is a coach, certified sex therapist, and licensed clinical psychotherapist in Overland Park, Kansas. She is part of our online course mastermind, which you can explore athttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind ( www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind). Heather is in the process of creating a course on erectile dysfunction, and she has already learned a lot in preparation to launch her course. Her biggest question is how to present her course without information overload for her students. You are invited to listen to the coaching call with Heather and Melvin!

https://www.lovefilledlife.com (Love Filled Life)

You’ll Learn: How Heather evolved as a sex therapist and realized the need for more information How Heather found the niche for her online course in helping men with erectile issues A common mistake that our colleagues make in creating an online course How the STC Mastermind course has fast-tracked Heather’s course creation and launch (scheduled to begin in a few short weeks!) How Heather’s four-week course is structured with videos, downloadable resources, and a coaching call Why Heather is being intentional to allow her students to maintain anonymity if they prefer Tool options that can be used to allow students to submit questions to Dr. Heather privately Why Heather is struggling to uphold her standards of competency and concrete research without overwhelming her students with information and exercises How Heather is approaching a particular module of her course that includes a lot of information How to pare down exercises and activities to the most important “Aha moment” for students The value of using a survey to get feedback at the end of EACH module–rather than waiting until the end of the entire course Heather’s top takeaways from this coaching call and how she plans to implement what she has learned

How you can find Heather’s course, free webinar, and other resources athttp://www.lovefilledlife.com ( www.lovefilledlife.com)  Mentioned in this episode: We'd Like to Thank Today's Sponsor Just because you own a private practice, it doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice. There's a lot of nuts and bolts to getting great outcomes and a stellar income. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. You need a rock solid plan that is actionable, measurable and doable! On Sept. 19-22, Kelly and Miranda from zynnyme are hosting a free training on how to create a business plan in less than one hour. This live series contains a specialized training for each phase of practice from starting a counseling practice or growing a private practice to loving your successful practice, and transforming your group practice. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you're there, you can also join the interest list for their Business School for Therapists - an all-in-one resource for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how

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Hello! Welcome to a brand new season of STC that will take us through September and October before I take an extended sabbatical of several months. Today’s session is a fascinating conversation about considering the greater purpose of our businesses beyond merely generating income. How can our businesses be a vehicle for much, much more in the world? Let’s discuss this topic with today’s guest! Our Featured Guest Ariana Lloyd, LCSW

Ariana Lloyd is a licensed clinical social worker in Portland, Oregon. She runs eight-week live cohorts to help therapists coming into private practice set up their businesses in ways that are focused on personal growth, creativity, and social justice. In this conversation, we talk about the ways her business has been a means of personal growth and healing, along with how to offer programs with intentionality and meaningful service to clients. Ariana tells us how she exercises her creative muscles through her business, and we wrap up with ways to tackle social justice issues and advocacy with intention, care, and cultural humility. 

You’ll Learn:

How Ariana’s business became a source of healing and personal growth  How even the practical tasks in business-building can help heal past wounds How to find balance between personal healing and being of service to clients How Ariana has tapped into her creativity by offering her unique programs to clients What works best for Ariana in exercising her creativity muscles: writing and talking to a trusted friend when facing a new project Why clinicians have unique opportunities to step into leadership, advocacy, and empowerment for social justice issues How the business-building process can incorporate more radical values that address systemic change for social good Why Ariana offers free training on specific topics and donates to organizations doing good in the world How social justice applies to the sense of duty Ariana feels to help others An overview of Lloyd Collective offerings and the help offered to private practitioners

Mentioned in this episode:https://amzn.to/3ebopCm ( Barbara Love), author, and researcher https://www.lloydcollective.com/ (Connect) with Ariana

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Like many of you, I’m looking forward to a different 2021, but I am grateful for what we’ve learned about ourselves, our businesses, and our resilience. Today’s topic is more relevant than ever, as we all want to learn more about improving our private practice website. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Daniel FavaDaniel Fava, from Private Practice Elevation, is my friend and an expert in website design. I trust his insight and advice, and I rely heavily on him for everything website-related. Daniel is here to share what is working for private practice websites post-pandemic. Much of what we think about our private practice websites has shifted greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what used to serve us well may not be working now. As many of us are transitioning to full-time online counseling or at least some increased element of online therapy, Daniel’s advice is relevant and timely. https://my.captivate.fm/www.privatepracticeelevation.com (Website) https://my.captivate.fm/www.privatepracticeelevation.com/roi (ROI Report) https://my.captivate.fm/www.privatepracticeelevation.com/stc-audit (Website Audit) You'll Learn:What has changed about websites and online traffic since the pandemic began Three things that are working well for private practice websites: A professional website is more important than ever. People are searching online, so you need to have a presence there that stands out. Content is the foundation for getting found online. Foundational content includes your home page, service pages, and specialty pages. Online therapy has become an essential part of private practice. Your website audience is now expanded throughout your entire state, instead of just your local vicinity.  How to incorporate non-written content, like videos and podcasts, into your website Why you should take this opportunity to view your website through new eyes

Transcript:Melvin: Hello, welcome to session 262 of Selling the Couch. I hope you are having a good start to the New Year. Man after the fun adventure that was 2020 I am really looking forward to a different 2021. At the same time, I feel like I'm so grateful. As hard as this has been that in some ways that we were able to go through this because I think it's definitely taught all of us just how resilient we are; especially if you have been able to manage a business and during a pandemic, you're pretty legit. So today's podcast session is with my good friend Daniel Fava from Private Practice Elevation. Daniel is an expert when it comes to website design. It's someone I rely on for both STC and my private practice website. And Daniel is here to share three of the things that are working for private practice websites post-pandemic. I know that how we think about private practice and even how we think about our private practice websites has shifted in the midst of this pandemic.

There are just things that were working in the past that are not working as well now and we've learned a lot of insights and key things in terms of what could work and what will be working going forward. Especially as many of us transition either fully to online counseling or maintain some element of online counseling in our practices. I think there are just a lot of different things there. So we'll get right to today's conversation. Here is my conversation with Daniel Fava from privatepracticeelevation.com.

Hey, Daniel, welcome back to Selling the Couch.

Daniel:

Hey Melvin, how's it going? Thanks so much for having me back.

Melvin:

You're welcome. And Happy New Year, because by the time this releases, it'll be the New Year.

Daniel:

That's right. That's always the interesting and strange part of recording podcasts is the timing bit because we're recording before Christmas, but we're saying Happy New Year.

Melvin:

Yes, absolutely. We have to get it all in our mind.

Daniel:

Yeah.

Melvin:

I'm really excited...

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Today’s show takes on a very niched perspective, but the information and wisdom are useful in many aspects of our work as clinicians and business owners. We are specifically discussing how to move from an online course to a membership model. Maybe you’ve wondered about these components of your practice and how to make the transition. Join us for expert advice! Our Featured Guest Jennifer McGurk, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S Jennifer McGurk is a registered dietitian in NY whose specialty is helping clients with eating disorders. She made the transition from an online course to a membership model, so she is sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly of such a move. I hope our discussion will be helpful to you if you’re considering a similar transition. https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/theecourse/ (Website) You’ll Learn: ●     How membership sites can help a clinician accomplish career goals ●     Details of Jennifer’s journey in private practice from an online course to a membership model ●     The benefits to therapist and client of a membership model over a one-time course model ●     How imposter syndrome can crop up when creating a membership site ●     How it’s helpful to see others reaching their goals in transitioning from an online course to a membership site ●     Common mistakes in this transition ●     What the business gurus DON’T tell you about your online course as a passive income stream ●     The components of Jennifer’s membership site: Dietitian Business School ●     Jennifer’s advice to a clinician either launching an online course or making the transition to a membership site Today's Podcast Sponsor:

https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (Hushmail) - Hushmail is a safe and secure way to email and send secure forms (e.g., intake packets and consent forms) to potential and current clients. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail) and please let them know Mel sent you =). TRANSCRIPT Melvin: Hi Jennifer, welcome back to Selling the Couch. Jennifer: Hi, Melvin; thank you for having me. I'm so excited to talk to you. Melvin: I really enjoyed our last conversation. I'm so grateful that you reached out, you are doing just so many neat things in the world, so many out of the box things. And I'm just grateful when you reached out and then two, just to hear about the journey and share all the lessons and all those things that you've learned. Jennifer: Yeah, thank you so much. I'm so grateful for your work, too. We were talking before we hit record about how mental health is so needed right now and therapists are doing such an awesome job. So anyone out there listening, thank you for your work too. It's a time where people really need mental health services. Melvin: Yeah, absolutely; I do feel so grateful to be part of this profession. I don't know who could have imagined something like this. But I think one of the things that's really been on my mind, especially through this pandemic, I think it was there before but it's kind of accelerated it is this question of like, what do I want my career to look like? And where do I want to focus my energy? And one of the things that I've kind of realized is, I actually want to eventually just completely pull back on one on one work or if I have to it's kind of more higher-priced and it's very limited. And I think one of the ways that you can do that is through online courses and membership sites. I think there's like a lot of information online about how to do these, all of that kind of stuff. But I wanted to hear from you, because you had an online course, you transitioned into a membership site, you're actually doing it and yeah, I'm just so grateful, I think for

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If the topic of building your personal brand on social media brings feelings of anxiety and insecurity, then today’s show is for you. As clinicians, we know it makes sense to have a digital footprint in the online world, but it’s difficult to know just how to establish yourself with authenticity and transparency. There are so many nuances to the intimidating world of social media! Today’s conversation will give you valuable insight and practical tips to help people get to know, like, and trust you. Join us to learn more. Our Featured Guest-Lisa Mustard, LMFT Lisa Mustard is a personal brand coach, psychoeducator, therapist, podcaster, and self-described personal development junkie in South Carolina. This mom of two has created an awe-inspiring presence on social media around topics like fitness, health, mindset, and goals. Recording with her phone, Lisa proves that a high-quality, high-dollar studio is not a requirement for building your personal brand, and she does it in very unique and authentic ways. Lisa joins us to talk about what personal branding is, how much to share, and that all-important line between OK and TMI. We’ll wrap up with the most common mistake people make in personal branding and three tips that you can utilize today to start building your personal brand on social media. https://lisamustard.com/ (Lisa Mustard) You’ll Learn ●     What is a personal brand? Your reputation, what people say about you, and what you’re known for ●     The best way to narrow your brand down to three specific things is to identify your top values and priorities ●     Why you have to be clear and specific about how you want to move forward on social media ●     How to decide how much to share online ●     The most common mistake people make is----not taking the time to build a personal brand ●     Three tips for a clinician who wants to build a personal brand: ○     Identify your strengths, uniqueness, and how you help people ○     Know your values and what you stand for ○     Know where you want to go and what you want to accomplish ●     Why you should realize that not everyone will resonate with your message---and that’s OK ●     Why social media is the best place to build your personal brand Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Headway https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/episode/sellingthecouch.com/headway (Headway): Headway is building a new mental healthcare system by using cutting-edge software to connect clients with therapists who accept insurance, helping providers to expand their practices, and individuals to finally find a therapist they can afford. Solo and group practices in network through Headway can get better rates, get paid automatically twice per month (no more rejected claims or delayed payments), and get complimentary billing and admin support so you can focus on serving your clients. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Solo and group practices out of network through Headway also get full admin support and access to the vast pool of potential clients who need to use their insurance to pay for care. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Learn More at https://sellingthecouch.com/headway (https://sellingthecouch.com/headway) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an...

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Have you ever considered writing a children’s book? I’ll admit that I’ve thought about it, and it might be a new endeavor in my future. Writing a children’s book takes creativity and planning, and much perseverance is required to navigate the publishing process. Join me as I talk to a longtime friend who has been through the process and published two children’s books. Our Featured Guest Amy Jivani Amy is a childhood friend of mine who has become a children’s book author. Her latest book, Meera’s Flowers, tells the story of a young girl celebrating an Indian holiday while living in America. She also wrote More Than Words: A Book About Body Language, a story about body language and feelings. Amy is a former first-grade teacher who is inspired by her students and her cultural background to write children’s books with ethnically diverse characters. Amy shares with us where she gets ideas for books and how the creative process works. We also discuss the concept of self-publishing compared to the traditional publishing route. We wrap up with Amy’s insights into the hardest part about writing and releasing a book during a pandemic. http://www.amyjivani.com/ (www.amyjivani.com)  You’ll Learn: ● Where Amy’s inspiration came from for Meera’s Flowers ● Amy’s advice for other aspiring writers: ○ Write something you can champion. ○ Storyboard your ideas as you begin. ● How the traditional publishing route requires resilience and seems like a “closed club” ● Why Amy decided not to self-publish her first book ● How Amy realized that creative stories could teach and reinforce important concepts to children in more memorable ways ● How Amy gives herself creative space to think and produce rather than setting aside a disciplined time slot ● The hardest part of what Amy has accomplished: getting publishers to see the quality of what she wrote and releasing a book during a pandemic when typical book promotion is a no-go ● How Amy handles the newfound attention of being a published author with humility RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business))

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For...

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Today’s solo episode is the last one before we take an extended summer break for August. We will return with new episodes in September and October before I plan a sabbatical of several months. Today’s focus is on cohort-based courses, which are becoming very popular in the world of online education. It’s a very powerful model that I truly love. Join me for a closer look as I share what I’ve learned so far!

5 lessons I’ve learned about CBCs: It truly gets easier the second time around, but the first time is a lot of work. There are tweaks you may have to make in real-time.  Guest workshops are very high leverage.  Use the “I-do, we-do, you-do” framework. Realize that a CBC is a lot of work, so beware of having multiple endeavors go on at the same time.  

Check out ourhttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide ( Online Course Guide) for more information! Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Before I started this podcast in 2015, I had rolled the idea around in my head over and over again. The problem was that I was full of fears and apprehension, and I just wasn’t sure that I could make it work like I wanted. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to help almost 300 of my colleagues build their online businesses through podcasting, and I’ve learned what to do and what not to do. I’m sharing helpful tips today to help you transform your podcast into a money-making machine. Join me to learn more! You’ll Learn:

9 Ways to Turn Your Podcast into a Money-Making Machine Record coaching calls. This is a way to use interactions with current clients/students to drive future sales, share your expertise, and genuinely connect with someone. Introduce solo episodes.  This is a powerful way to build authority on topics that highlight your expertise while promoting your product or service. Show your humanity. This is a way to show your personality and connect with others authentically. Use private podcast episodes. These are targeted, independent episodes on very specific topics. (Example: Build a Second Brain by Tiago Forte) Use dynamic ads. These are dynamic ads used across all your podcast episodes, which translates to higher sales and higher relevance. (Check outhttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate ( www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate)) Demonstrate value elsewhere. You can point your audience to a free guide, webinar, course, ebook to create more value and make you more valuable to your audience. Use strategic invitations.  Try to find strategic partnerships in your niche and promote high-value speakers for your audience. Collect emails early. An email list is your online business’ secret weapon to create an audience you own and collect customer research through surveys. Create a consistent schedule. A schedule creates routines that your audience can count on.

I hope these tips are helpful for you! If you want to know more, sign up for my podcasting workshop: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop ( www.sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop). Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s topic is relevant to many different types of businesses and entrepreneurs, and it’s something I have pondered along my own journey. We are taking a look at owning an audience compared to “renting” an audience through social media platforms. Social media can be overwhelming with many challenges, and the number of followers is not always a reflection of the success of a business. Join us to learn strategies to help you own your audience! Our Featured Guest Craig Morris Craig Morris works with creators to monetize their knowledge. He has worked at Google for the past seven years, and we connected through our mutual friend Kevin Shen, a previous STC guest. Craig has learned a lot about the power of social media, email lists, and more, and he’s sharing his tips and strategies with us. If you’ve debated the merits of creating an email list and wondered if it’s worthwhile, you will find today’s conversation helpful and informative. As a reminder, please note that Craig is sharing his opinions and insights and not necessarily those of his employer. 

https://ca.linkedin.com/in/craig-ag-morris (LinkedIn)

You’ll Learn: Why focusing on the numbers of your social media following may not be best because of the risks Why relying too heavily on your social media following means you are “renting” your audience Craig’s recommended strategies for owning the audience you have created via social media: “If they are only a social media follower, they are one extra step away from being converted to a customer.” Ideas about creating an email list or opt-in, while understanding you typically need to give something away in exchange for that information Craig’s thoughts on platforms for email automation, lead generation, landing pages, etc. (https://www.apollo.io (Apollo),https://www.sendinblue.com ( Sendinblue), andhttps://www.hubspot.com/ ( Hubspot) are a few options.) Practical tips for top converting strategies to use, both proactive and more passive formats How to find contentment and satisfaction in knowing how much is “enough”

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s session is atypical and very specific, but I think it’s a relevant and timely focus. The topic of supporting incarcerated men has been something I’ve thought about for a long time because the need is great, and I have a heart for those clinicians who do this difficult work. I want to learn and understand more about this field, so I hope you’ll join me for today’s conversation. 

Our Featured Guest Robert Fields, LPA

Robert Fields is a Licensed Psychological Associate in Durham, NC. His 15-year career has included a variety of clients, including veterans, adjudicated youth in the juvenile justice system, and individuals with developmental disabilities. His current focus is on incarcerated men within the prison system. Ever active in his community with youth and adults, he works to educate and reduce the stigma by making mental health a more relatable, useful, and transparent topic. Robert and I recently connected on Twitter, and I’m excited to learn more about his work in this field. 

https://twitter.com/robertfieldslpa?lang=en (Twitter) andhttps://www.instagram.com/robertfieldslpa/?hl=en ( Instagram)

You’ll Learn:

Why Robert chose to work with incarcerated men, despite his initial hesitancy How Robert figured out that being present is the most important element in his work, whether working with juveniles or adults How Robert depends on his personal experience to understand how people make poor choices Robert’s advice to those who want to work with incarcerated individuals: Don’t lose sight of their humanity. Be consistent, respectful, and fair above all else.  Have well-defined boundaries. How Robert maintains optimism in this challenging environment

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s session is all about building a breathwork app. It’s an interesting and nuanced process that most of us don’t understand. Breathwork can be a vital part of any therapy practice, and it is a tool that we should better understand. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest

Brian Von Ancken

Brian Von Ancken is Head of Partnerships at Othership.us. Brian and I met on Twitter, which has been a great place for me to connect and engage with many amazing people. Brian’s app is one of the top products on Product Hunt, and I’m curious about why he created an app like this that focuses on health and wellness. We will also talk about the technical aspects of creating a breathwork app. 

https://www.othership.us/ (Website) Get a discounted price on Othership by using the link: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/othership ( www.sellingthecouch.com/othership). 

You’ll Learn:

Brian’s personal journey, finding wellness after difficulties, that led him to Othership How Brian’s law degree benefits him in the entrepreneurial world The biggest mental roadblocks that were in Brian’s way Lessons learned in putting yourself “out there” on social media How Brian connected with the Othership founder and ended up partnering together How Brian’s breathwork app gained popularity through Product Hunt, a website that features new and useful products  How Othership is trying to fuel a movement toward peak experiences and elevated wellness How the app material is recorded by breathwork facilitators in a high-quality production process How Brian has struggled to remain authentic along the journey

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Even with seven years or so of course-building under my belt, I certainly do not claim to be an expert with all the answers. Always the student, I’m constantly learning and tweaking the process, and I’m always happy to share my tips and valuable lessons with you. There are so many tools, equipment, formats, etc.--- and it can all be very intimidating! In today’s solo session, I’m sharing tips about my favorite recording tool, https://www.loom.com (Loom). Join me now! You’ll Learn: Why Loom is my favorite recording tool for online courses and the STC podcast My tips for using Loom to record your online course videos: Alter the sharing style. You can record your screen, your voice, or both. I recommend a combination of all three for variety. Don't be afraid to show your fce on camera! Stick with one big idea per video. The “Show Recording Time” feature in Loom helps you avoid overwhelming your audience with long sessions. I try to stick to 4-7 minutes. Decide beforehand your format for each video. My advice is to start with what problem you’ll solve, give three tips, and share a common mistake from your personal experience. Create a custom thumbnail. Loom helps do this beautifully. Create folders in Loom before recording. It’s 100x better to organize them from the beginning. Invest in a mic to boost the sound quality. “Small improvements in quality lead to a big impact.” Record with a digital DSLR. The quality will be 100x better than what a webcam will give. You have to buy a USB Capture Card to allow the DSLR to shoot video. Have a very, very clear call to action. Whether the next step is to watch the next video or complete a workbook or exercise, be clear about it for your audience.

Resources:

See my gear recommendations! http://www.kit.co/mvarghese ( www.kit.co/mvarghese)  

Check out the Mastermind!http://www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind ( www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind)    Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s session is very relevant to the season of life that I’m currently navigating. How far do we keep going as entrepreneurs as we reach our goals? How far is enough that our lives and responsibilities are balanced by the work we do and not pushed aside by work? How big do we want our business and our revenue goals to be? Join us for a closer look at “enough” in today’s podcast! Our Featured Guest Keri Nola Keri Nola is a good friend and a repeat guest on the podcast, even though it’s been far too long since she has joined us here. After more than a decade of growing a prosperous practice as a licensed psychotherapist, Keri expanded her work into other avenues. She’s a best-selling author, podcaster, and founder of the Abundance Activator for Healing Entrepreneurs. Her global practice allows her to mentor healers as they conquer fear and doubt so they can step into their power and serve abundantly. Keri helps us dive into what “enough” is and why so many clinicians tell their clients that having more stuff doesn’t equal happiness—but they fall short in following their own advice as small business owners. Keri shares her internal thought process about building new products and services and her decision-making process. 

https://kerinola.com/ (Website) Use coupon code “sellingthecouch” athttp://www.theabundanceactivator.com ( www.theabundanceactivator.com) to lock in current rates on Keri’s Abundance Activator for the remainder of 2022. 

You’ll Learn: Why it’s tempting and seductive to build bigger and have more How your “more” should be aligned with your season of life, personality, and energy How to evaluate your desire to grow–Where is it coming from? The difference in feeling the slow simmer of a divine pull vs. the frantic need to compare and compete with others Why it’s important to look for alignment, both in ourselves and in others we might follow Why you have to welcome abundance as a resource to help you (and your team) relax and take care of yourselves Why it’s OK to want to create something new in a way that serves others and helps you How care, attunement, and mindfulness are involved in deciding who should work with us (It’s OK to say NO to working to some people–for their own good.) How Keri has learned to figure out her “enough” by deciding what is true and checking in with herself for peace and alignment Why you need to ask, “Am I living what is true for me?” An overview of Keri’s Abundance Activator, her membership community for healing entrepreneurs

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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These past few years, I’ve been focused on building a life around my family and self-care rather than fitting those things around a career. I’ve learned that there is much wisdom in slowing down and not keeping up a crazy pace. One thing that has helped me accomplish these goals is creating an online course. Even though I’m super grateful and blown away by the success of the Healthcaster’s course, I made a lot of mistakes along the way. Join me as I share my insights and lessons learned.  You’ll Learn: The 10 biggest mistakes I made as an online course creator: 1–I didn’t understand how my childhood trauma affected my course pricing.  Check out these resources: “https://www.inc.com/magazine/201309/jessica-bruder/psychological-price-of-entrepreneurship.html (The Psychological Price of Entrepreneurship”) (Inc Magazine), We Should All Be Millionaires by Rachel Rodgers, and courses byhttps://www.heytiffany.com ( Tiffany McLain). 2–I gave my students lifetime access to coaching and community. This caused me to feel resentment for not charging more for that kind of access to me. 3–I focused too much on gear instead of creating a steady marketing system.  I have learned that marketing, which is not my strength, is all about authenticity and connection. 4–I focused on being in the “middle of the pack” on pricing instead of in the upper tier. Ask yourself, “Do you want to be the Apple or the Walmart in your niche?” 5–I didn’t realize that I could invite students into other experiences beyond my course. Options include a mastermind, cohort-based course, and other recurring income buckets. 6–I realized that looking at my bank account doesn’t drive sales as testimonials do. Follow me onhttps://twitter.com/mvarghese5?lang=en ( Twitter) for more information on this topic. 7–I thought I’d be stuck on one business model, so I built a “strip mall model.” I didn’t realize that offering several products requires a lot of work, so I’m moving to a “skyscraper model.” Find out more athttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind ( www.sellingthecouch.com/mastermind). 8–I thought having a mentor with a similar course meant that I couldn’t create one. When someone else has a similar course, you can niche down into a more specific message. 9–I was too concerned about the sale over the relationship. This came from a poverty mindset instead of the abundance mindset to which I aspire.  10–I didn’t think about the one-off sale on the front end and the recurring invitation on the back.  A certain number of students will want a more in-depth experience with us. 

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s topic is a relevant one for many clinicians as telehealth services have become a widespread, vital, and normal part of the healthcare field. Specifically, we are focusing on how Search Engine Optimization (SEO) changes when you practice telehealth across your state or even in multiple states. I’m continually fascinated by SEO and how it works, and it’s something I’m still learning. If you are like me, join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Jessica Tappana, MSW, LCSW Jessica Tappana is the founder of Simplified SEO Consulting, a firm that helps private practice owners build their businesses through Search Engine Optimization. She’s a group practice owner in Missouri and an SEO nerd who loves taking therapy websites to the top in Google rankings. In today’s session, Jessica talks about the biggest considerations in SEO as telehealth becomes the norm, as well as tips to improve SEO in practicing telehealth. We wrap up with Jessica’s insights about SEO as it relates to location-based services. https://simplifiedseoconsulting.com/ (Website) 

You’ll Learn:

The biggest difference in approaching SEO as telehealth becomes the norm Why content generation is the solution to improve SEO for telehealth provider Why there is less work required to maintain an SEO ranking once you achieve it Jessica’s tips for telehealth practitioners to improve SEO: Create a unique location page for each state in which you are relevant. Have a technically-sound website. Blog regularly. (The optimal frequency depends heavily on your location and level of competition.) The value in truly useful content for our clients that ALSO improves SEO Why SEO doesn’t like “psycho-babble” but notices readability

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s solo episode is the second in a two-part series about the lessons I’ve learned as a course creator. I launched The Healthcasters course back in 2015, and it recently passed the $300K revenue mark. Those results are far more than I could have ever imagined, and as I’ve reflected, I realize that I have learned a lot through this journey. I hope some of my lessons learned will be helpful for you! Join me for today’s session where I’ll cover #6-10 of my top ten lessons learned.  Lessons learned as a course creator (#6-10) Social media marketing can be intimidating. Focusing on webinars makes more sense in many ways.  Webinars magnify your strengths as a teacher. Webinars make it easy for viewers to sign up for your course. Webinars can be evergreen, and you can sprinkle in live ones whenever you want. (EasyWebinar makes the process simple. Check it out athttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar ( www.sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar).) In webinars, focus on sharing your story, your WHY, and your expertise. “Low prices attract tire-kickers.” A higher price will make you want to over-deliver to your students. A higher price limits impulse buyers and attracts more of the students you want. Charging a higher price allows you to reinvest more money into better quality gear for the future. Don’t compete on price. Offering discounts and lower prices will affect the quality of your students.  Consider offering time-limited bonuses, like a group coaching call, video series, etc., rather than offering discounts.  Have an easy way to gather testimonials. (Check out testimonial.to athttp://www.sellingthecouch.com/testimonial ( www.sellingthecouch.com/testimonial).)  Students can choose a video or text testimonial about their experience. Separate your course success from your self-worth. Your course isn’t who you are, but it’s just one thing you do. Don’t compare your course success to someone else’s. “Comparison is poison.”

You can check out all of my 10 Lessons Learned (with video!) in myhttps://twitter.com/mvarghese5/status/1513503190410481669 ( Twitter) thread! Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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I’m the fortunate podcast host with two guests today, which is a first for me! They are long-time friends of mine from grad school who have taken a unique idea and brought it to fruition in starting their company and launching their first online course. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to hear all about it, so join us to hear their story! Our Featured Guests Jordana Mortimer, PhD Erin Avirett, PhD

Jordana Mortimer and Erin Avirett are both child neuropsychologists with independent private practices. They have been friends for 15 years since their days in grad school, and they always had the idea to start a business together. Even though they live in different cities in Texas (Jordana in Fort Worth/Erin in Amarillo), they made things happen this year in starting their company, Mind and Child. In addition, they developed and launched their first online course, Parenting 101, for parents with kiddos under the age of twelve. The course takes their experiential parenting lessons and merges it with solid research and data. In this session, Jordana and Erin share how this business idea originated, how they approached marketing, and how they are handling the practical challenges of working together. Even though close friends don’t always make good business partners, they share with us how they are navigating that intersection and overcoming the odds to make it work well for their families.  

Mind and Childhttps://www.mindandchild.com/ ( Website) Erin’s practicehttps://www.erinavirettphd.com/ ( Website) Jordana’s practicehttp://www.brainstormlearningllc.com ( Website)

You’ll Learn:

How Jordana and Erin first developed the idea for Mind and Child with the overall goal to help parents and families on a larger scale  How their roles as testing psychologists helped Jordana and Erin to follow through on their dream of starting a business together The hardest parts of creating their online course How they promoted the course with social media, blogs, and ads How the course feels genuine and authentic with their mission and purpose Why they consulted with advertising experts to know which social media platforms were best for marketing their course How they have navigated challenges with marketing their business but setting boundaries to protect family time How Jordana and Erin coordinate their social media interactions by alternating weeks to handle posts and engagements Why Jordana and Erin hired a friend’s video production company to film their course, which was more complicated than they had envisioned Specifics of the filming process, set design, using a teleprompter, speaking succinctly, etc.  Why being close friends and business partners has been beneficial in every way without any real hardships or friendship-threatening challenges for Jordana and Erin A few details about their website, course, and private practices

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s solo episode is the first in a two-part series about the lessons I’ve learned as a course creator. I launched The Healthcasters course back in 2015, and it just passed the $300K revenue mark. Those results are far more than I could have ever imagined! Join me for today’s session where I’ll cover the first five of my ten lessons learned.  Lessons learned as a course creator: Decide between a skyscraper or a strip mall model for your online business. This concept comes from Nathan Barry, the CEO of ConvertKit. Find out more from his appearance on thehttps://www.creativeelements.fm/nathan-barry/ ( Creative Elements podcast) hosted by Jay Clouse.  A strip mall model offers multiple products that diversity your income, while a skyscraper model features a single, scalable flagship product. I started STC with a strip mall model, but I’ve decided to move to a skyscraper model and use my mastermind as my single product. Focus on one marketing channel instead of jumping around to several.  Find the sweet spot where you enjoy hanging out and where your ideal audience can be found.  Check outhttps://www.edisonresearch.com/the-infinite-dial/ ( Infinite Dial) for free analytics on social media trends.  Think about going from a “rented audience” to an “owned audience” as you seek to build your email list. Less is more when it comes to course content.  Teach content that gives a concrete roadmap to help your students get from point A to point B. Be a niche of one.  I definitely didn’t do this very well in trying to reach too wide of a variety of healthcare providers with my first course. I know better now! Don’t stress over your gear initially. Start simple. I recommendhttps://www.loom.com/ ( Loom) for recording and the Rode VideoMic NTG, which is an affordable mic with quality sound.  You can save for future equipment upgrades by setting aside a small percentage of your income over time. 

Mentioned in this episode: Ready to create your own course? Download the FREE Online Course Guide! Learn how to create and market your own online course in Melvin's unique online course guide. Download the FREE online course guide today!

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/onlinecourseguide (Online Course Guide )

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Today’s session is special because our guest is a friend and colleague from our internship days at Vanderbilt. He has accomplished many things in his career, one of which is co-authoring a book to grow his group practice. It is an innovative endeavor that definitely qualifies as “outside-the-box” thinking. Tom’s insight will be helpful if writing a book is in your future! Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest: Tom McDonagh, PsyD Tom McDonagh is in group practice in San Francisco, where his work focuses on anxiety, stress, burnout, and other related issues that are common for many people. Tom went the traditional route to publish the book which he co-authored, 101 Ways to Conquer Teen Anxiety. In today’s session, he shares why he wrote the book as a co-author, along with the structure, format, and challenges of choosing that route. He also shares wisdom about the traditional publishing process as it relates to marketing a book. https://goodtherapysf.com/ (www.goodtherapysf.com) https://www.amazon.com/101-Ways-Conquer-Teen-Anxiety/dp/1612435637 (101 Ways to Conquer Teen Anxiety by Dr. Tom McDonagh and Jon Patrick Hatcher) You’ll Learn: Why Tom wanted to write a book as a creative way to get his message out How Tom and Jon Patrick Hatcher decided to team up and co-author this book together (after shelving their original idea for a “break-up” book aimed at men) How co-authoring brings an opportunity to give a different, complementary perspective to your ideas The basics of the traditional publishing process How Tom and Jon divided up the tasks to produce the content for the book in a week-by-week process What Tom would change about the publishing process in hindsight, and why he would choose to self-publish if he could go back Why Tom wishes they had been given more time for editing and rewriting  How Tom’s practice has been thriving with a virtual therapy format since the beginning of the pandemic, helping people deal with anxiety and feelings of disconnection

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Today’s topic is very specific, but it’s one that makes a big difference in your private practice and has a meaningful impact on your clients. We are talking about creating an epic welcome video for your practice website. If making a welcome video isn’t part of your website already, don’t miss today’s episode about showing up authentically in ways that connect you to your clients. Our Featured Guest Bryan Nixon, MA, LPC Bryan Nixon is a group practice owner in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His welcome video on his website stands out in my mind as a beautiful and powerful example of what we’re bringing forward in today’s show. Bryan will break down the process of creating such a video, along with things a clinician might overlook when creating such a video. We will wrap up with helpful tips if creating an engaging welcome video is on your to-do list. https://www.mindfulcounselinggr.com/ (Website) You’ll Learn ●     How a video can bring intentionality to your sacred work of therapy in a visual experience ●     How Bryan identified the vibe he wanted to communicate about his practice ●     Why Bryan decided to feature an old, scarred dresser in his welcome video and the symbolism it presents to clients ●     What a client really wants to know about a therapist: Will you see me? Will you hear me? Will you connect with me? ●     Why Bryan felt the importance of “telling the story” through narration for his video ●     Three tips for creating an impactful welcome video: ○     Be willing to do your own work with authenticity before you think about a video ○     Connect to your purpose and your WHY in the world ○     Present your authenticity, but don’t be afraid to show your mistakes ●     Bryan’s continuing ed program, Relationally-Focused Psychodynamic Therapy ●     How restorative healing comes about as a result of the relationship between the client and the therapist Today’s Podcast Sponsor:https://www.tidemarkva.com/ (Tidemark VA Services) provides billing, credentialing, client scheduling, and social media management services to therapists in private practice. The owner, Brittany, is a group practice owner who knows the ins and outs of our field. Learn more about the services that Tidemark provides at https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark (https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark). Additional resources:

Learn about Bryan’s two-year, post-grad program: http://www.theseattleschool.edu/ (The Seattle School)  https://matchframecreative.com/ (Match Frame Creative) (the company that created Bryan's video) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream, 6-Figure Business)) https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)) MY FREE GUIDES: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course) MY COURSES:...

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What if I told you that there is something simple and free that most of us can do daily for an hour or less that yields amazing physical and mental benefits? Would you want to know what it is? Since the pandemic has forced us to take a closer look at our habits and make some changes, I want to share this life-changing activity that has become an almost daily habit for me. It’s hiking! Incorporating a midday hike several times each week helps me sleep better at night and stay centered for daily tasks. My inner “research nerd” got curious and took a deeper look at the intersection of hiking, mental health, and entrepreneurship, and I want to share with you what I’ve found. You’ll Learn ●     Why hike? What are the benefits? ○     Hiking helps keep our minds sharp and agile. ○     Hiking helps us to focus better. ○     HIking can spark serious creativity. ●     If you’re a hiker, please share with the STC Community what benefits you’re seeing in your personal and professional life. I’m very interested to hear about your results! Today's Podcast Sponsor: HeadwayShow Sponsor:https://headway.co/ ( Headway) Headway is building a new mental healthcare system that’s rewired for access and affordability through innovative software. Patients are connected with therapists who accept their insurance, and providers can experience yet another way to expand their private practices. Headway helps patients find the therapist that they can afford, and they handle all the administrative paperwork for providers, making Headway the win-win choice for both patients and providers. Find out more about Headway through this link: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/headway (Headway)  https://sellingthecouch.com/selfcare (Mel's Self Care Kit) Also mentioned:  https://geni.us/8WW16 (Successful Aging) by Daniel Levitin RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐...

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Today’s show takes on a very niched perspective, but the information and wisdom are useful in many aspects of our work as clinicians and business owners. We are specifically discussing how to move from an online course to a membership model. Maybe you’ve wondered about these components of your practice and how to make the transition. Join us for expert advice! Our Featured Guest Jennifer McGurk, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S Jennifer McGurk is a registered dietitian in NY whose specialty is helping clients with eating disorders. She made the transition from an online course to a membership model, so she is sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly of such a move. I hope our discussion will be helpful to you if you’re considering a similar transition. https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/theecourse/ (Website) You’ll Learn: ●     How membership sites can help a clinician accomplish career goals ●     Details of Jennifer’s journey in private practice from an online course to a membership model ●     The benefits to therapist and client of a membership model over a one-time course model ●     How imposter syndrome can crop up when creating a membership site ●     How it’s helpful to see others reaching their goals in transitioning from an online course to a membership site ●     Common mistakes in this transition ●     What the business gurus DON’T tell you about your online course as a passive income stream ●     The components of Jennifer’s membership site: Dietitian Business School ●     Jennifer’s advice to a clinician either launching an online course or making the transition to a membership site Today's Podcast Sponsor:

We do not have a sponsor this month. TRANSCRIPT Melvin: Hi Jennifer, welcome back to Selling the Couch. Jennifer: Hi, Melvin; thank you for having me. I'm so excited to talk to you. Melvin: I really enjoyed our last conversation. I'm so grateful that you reached out, you are doing just so many neat things in the world, so many out of the box things. And I'm just grateful when you reached out and then two, just to hear about the journey and share all the lessons and all those things that you've learned. Jennifer: Yeah, thank you so much. I'm so grateful for your work, too. We were talking before we hit record about how mental health is so needed right now and therapists are doing such an awesome job. So anyone out there listening, thank you for your work too. It's a time where people really need mental health services. Melvin: Yeah, absolutely; I do feel so grateful to be part of this profession. I don't know who could have imagined something like this. But I think one of the things that's really been on my mind, especially through this pandemic, I think it was there before but it's kind of accelerated it is this question of like, what do I want my career to look like? And where do I want to focus my energy? And one of the things that I've kind of realized is, I actually want to eventually just completely pull back on one on one work or if I have to it's kind of more higher-priced and it's very limited. And I think one of the ways that you can do that is through online courses and membership sites. I think there's like a lot of information online about how to do these, all of that kind of stuff. But I wanted to hear from you, because you had an online course, you transitioned into a membership site, you're actually doing it and yeah, I'm just so grateful, I think for this conversation. Jennifer: Yeah, thank you so much for letting me to share my story. Yes, I did have a course and I was in the same situation that you have just said, I was seeing clients and I had been seeing clients at that point for probably seven years or so in private...

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This is the last episode until September while I take some time off to focus on self-care before the summer ends. Today’s episode is a valuable one if you are thinking about launching an online course sometime soon or in the future. My encouragement to you is to do it! Get started! Join me for this solo episode in which we discuss the basics. You’ll Learn ● The most common reasons to launch an online course: to put your message out there to impact more people in different locations, to feel more fulfilled in your purpose, to diversify income streams, and to spark more creativity ● The highlights of my online course creation story that began in 2015---complete with all the doubts and fears ● How my first online course has surpassed my wildest dreams in passing the $200K mark in revenue ● What it means to me to build a successful online course: ○ I can build a life around my loved ones and self-care instead of fitting my loved ones and self-care around my career. ○ We as a family can contribute time and resources to organizations that make the world a better place. ○ I can create my ideal retirement schedule years before I actually retire. ● Why I want you to write down the completion to this statement: “A successful online course for me would mean . . .” ● Five pieces of advice to help you avoid the mistakes I made: ○ Online course creation is a long road---don’t rush it! ○ Don’t pick an online course platform because it’s cheap or free. ○ The first version of your online course will not be the final version. ○ See your online course as part of a larger value ladder rather than a one-off offering. ○ Build your course in community with others. ● Why you might want to join my newest online course that will launch soon! Resources mentioned: The online course platform that I use: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/cartra (www.sellingthecouch.com/cartra) Today's Sponsor: Online Course School I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course, whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work. Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting started: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course. Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops from Mel and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done. By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course. We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with six members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a part of, please check out my free http://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (A to Z Online Course Guide). The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your...

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At the beginning of this month, we reached our seven years of podcasting milestone here at Selling the Couch. That’s pretty crazy when statistics show that three out of every four new podcasts die after only seven episodes. Join us to learn what it takes to beat the odds and keep your podcast going. When I started the show back in 2015, podcasts were new. I am naturally introverted, so podcasting does not come easily to me. I remember being fearful on multiple levels and wondering how long I would be able to maintain sustainability with the podcast. We experienced slow and steady growth over time, however, and we currently average anywhere between 21,000 and 26,000 downloads in a month. Today’s session is a solo episode in which I share five tips that have helped me keep the podcast going. Stay tuned to learn more! You’ll Learn: You have to have done a decent amount of podcast episodes to hit hockey stick growth Tip #1: Focus on building systems initially rather than releasing a mass of episodes.  Notice your energy levels when you speak about certain topics. Hone in on topics that light you up. Set up a dedicated space to do your podcasting. It will make things a lot easier. Notice the formats of podcasting that energize you versus those that drain you. (You might start with one format and later move to a different one.) Tip # 2: Block out months in which you will not release any new podcasts. That means you won’t have to drop the podcast when other important things come up in your life. Tip #3: Think about monetizing your podcast before you launch it. (Brainstorm ways to make money besides having sponsors.) Tip # 4: Plan and employ good systems. (James Clear said: “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.”) Figure out the things you can delegate to create a model for long-term sustainability. I use one central subscribe page where everything is available. (http://www.sellingthecouch.com/listen (www.sellingthecouch.com/listen) ) Tip # 5: Hire a podcast editor.

Links: https://prettylinks.com/ (Pretty Links) A free podcasting workshop http://www.sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop (www.sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop) The Healthcasters Podcasting Course http://www.sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (www.sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters)   When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life.  And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes.  Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop.  Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes.  Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout.  While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice.  Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world. 

Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to

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If there is one thing I’ve learned as a small business owner, it’s that it takes courage to show up imperfect. We want so badly to be perfect and put together in front of our audience, but perfectionism makes us less authentic and connected. Join us to learn more about being OK with being imperfect. Samara Stone is a return guest to the podcast, and I’m thrilled to welcome her back! In addition to her work as a therapist, Samara is a branding expert who has a curated community, Be Full Grown, for black women over 40 who are ready to imagine, create, and live a life of their own design. Samara is in the process of launching a podcast, and she has already proven her courage in showing up imperfect through some major life difficulties. We will discuss how we, as clinicians, can show up imperfect when perfectionism always has a pull on us. Samara also shares helpful guidelines for sharing appropriately on social media, which is something we all need to keep in mind.  https://www.befullgrown.com/ (Be Full Grown) You’ll Learn: How things have changed in our field in beautiful ways; “Your Saturday self CAN show up on Monday morning.” Why many therapists struggle with perfectionism and are afraid to show up as 100% human Why clients appreciate transparency because it conveys a non-judgmental attitude Why there is a huge shift happening in how we understand marketing and our personal brand How therapists need to share enough about the real dynamic  of themselves so clients can see the healing possibilities How Samara decided to share on social media the experience of her divorce a few years ago  Why we have to be polarizing at times in order to find our true audience–and that’s OK The importance of realizing that you can’t and won’t appeal to everyone How to use your clear purpose and intention to determine how much of your life to share on social media

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your...

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Today’s session covers the power of building in public, which has been a new concept for me in the last few months. This is a way for business owners to build their products and services in public on social media while others come along for the journey. It’s not easy for those of us who don’t want to display our messiness, but it is a very powerful strategy. Think of building in public as a marketing technique that doesn’t feel like marketing. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest: Kevon Cheung Kevon Cheung is a friend who I have learned a lot from watching him build in public on Twitter. I went through his Build in Public Mastery Cohort last winter, and I learned so much! Kevon will explain this concept, what it means, and why it’s important for us as business owners. We will wrap up with Kevon sharing his FUEL framework, a method to use in creating social media posts. https://publiclab.co/ (Public Lab) https://buildinpublicmastery.com/ (Build in Public Mastery)

You’ll Learn:

What it means to “build in public” along the entrepreneurial journey–and why it’s a good idea How showing up with flaws and vulnerability helps build a following and establish a connection with others Why consistency is the key in showing people your commitment and intentions Why choosing the platform on which to build in public depends on who and where your audience is How making connections and giving “behind-the-scenes” glimpses will turn people into big fans Kevon’s FUEL framework for creating social media posts: Facts, Unfold, Emotion, and Learnings How to write lines that trigger curiosity without being “clickbait” (Remember, the goal of your first line is to get people to read the second line!) Highlights of Kevon’s course, Build in Public

Mentioned in this episode: Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for...

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Today’s session features a coaching call about how to build an email list simultaneously with an online course. You’ve probably heard that social media is the best option for building an email list, but is it? There are pros and cons to consider. Join us as we discuss this topic that is relevant to many people. I hope it’s helpful for you! Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call: Tami Zak, AMFT Tami Zak was part of our first beta group for Online Course School last fall. Her practice is based in northern California, but she works virtually with clients from all over the state. To broaden her reach and the help she wants to offer couples, Tami launched her podcast, Marriage Breakdown, in 2021. Tami now faces the dilemma of developing her email list along with her online course, and she is overwhelmed with where and how to begin. You are invited to listen to the coaching call with Tami and Melvin!

https://affinitycouplescounseling.com/ (Affinity Couples Counseling) https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marriage-breakdown/id1565837597 (Marriage Breakdown podcast)

You’ll Learn:

Tami’s online course idea to further develop her podcast topics and help couples communicate better Why an email list is important alongside an online course Why depending on social media alone to build a loyal following is not altogether sufficient How Tami feels overwhelmed and intimidated about where to start and where to spend money to build an email list Melvin’s tip #1: “There isn’t one solution to building an email list, but it’s more about what aligns with your creative energy.” How to focus on building “your island” in the social media “ocean” How Tami uses her lead magnet on her podcast and website to help build her email list–and she’s ready to dive into social media to some degree Melvin’s tip #2: “Think of offering your lead magnet as the beginning of a layering process to go from podcast, website, and then on to social media.” Why it’s overwhelming to dive into content creation and send out a newsletter Melvin’s tip #3: “Don’t feel obligated to send out too many newsletters; even once a month is OK when getting started. You can change things up at any time. “ Why it’s important to be consistent at whatever stage of development you are in Melvin’s tip #4: “Think of how you can batch content with short tip videos to include in your newsletter.” Options in using podcast content for quotes, tips, etc. to use in a newsletter and on social media Why Tami feels that her next steps will be around leveraging her content in a newsletter

Mentioned in this episode: Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful,...

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This session covers an important topic in today’s world. I had an unsettling experience personally with the issue of privacy regarding my personal information. It has been a big, bad mess all the way around that has taken a lot of time and effort to straighten out. I’ve become a big believer in the importance of knowledge and awareness about online security. As being in the online world becomes the norm for practitioners and business owners, how can we protect our personal information? Join us for this informative conversation! Our Featured Guest Kyle Krzeski Kyle Krzeski is the co-founder of Removaly, a company that removes private information from the internet on an initial and ongoing basis. Kyle helps us understand how companies get access to our private information, what those most common pieces of information are, and the practical steps you can take to keep yourself safe and secure. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/removaly (Selling The Couch: Removaly) You’ll Learn: ● How companies get access to our personal information like addresses, phone numbers, and more ● What “data brokers” are, how they operate, and why they have your personal info ● How the CCPA (California Consumer Protection Act) requires data brokers to register and allows consumers to opt-out (several other states are adopting similar policies) ● Common pieces of information to be found include names, addresses, phone numbers, previous addresses/phone numbers, relatives, background info, email addresses, etc. ● The story of Removaly and how it was started with co-founders Kyle and John ● Three tips to keep your personal information secure: ○ Be proactive, not reactive about data privacy and protection. ○ Separate your personal and business information. ○ Get your personal information off data broker sites. (You can do this yourself or pay for Removaly to do it.) ● How Removaly keeps clients’ info safe and secure ● What Removaly does to help clients with automated software, personal attention, and daily scans to remove recurring information from the internet Mentioned in this episode: Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep...

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Today’s session is a solo episode in which I share details about why I have made the $4K investment in studio lighting for my home office since 2019. This session is prompted by a Twitter feed that has gone viral about this subject. You can check it out on Twitter and see lots of pictures of my lighting gear, including before and after examples that really show the improvements. Even though this gear can be pricey, you can follow my tips, start small, and add quality equipment over time to take your videos and online presence to the next level. You’ll Learn: ● My top five tips for lighting your home studio: ○ Invest in a key light to create a natural look. ■ Pro Tip: look for a key light with remote control intensity settings and invest in a heavy duty light stand. ■ My gear: the Aperture 120D + Light Dome 2 ○ Invest in a fill light to keep you from looking like an evil villain. ■ Pro Tip: Use a 10-ft. USB-C to USB cable so it doesn’t turn off in the middle of something important. ■ My gear: the Falcon Eyes f7 ○ Invest in a hair light so you “pop out” from the background. ■ Pro Tip: Look for one with a magic arm and clamp. ■ My gear: a second Falcon Eyes f7 (placed at the right angle) ○ Invest in practical lights to create intrigue, depth, and atmosphere. ■ Pro Tip: Buy a light with a dimmer switch (or attach a separate dimmer switch) so that you can control the intensity. Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s topic is one of great interest to me because of my journey through life. It can be difficult and very challenging to balance fatherhood and entrepreneurship in a way that feels like you are giving your best to both roles. Maybe you find yourself in a similar situation. Join me for today’s conversation to learn more! Our Featured Guest: Ryan Spence Ryan Spence is a father of two, a former corporate lawyer turned entrepreneur, and a life coach who helps others show up as their best selves to live their best lives. Ryan and I connected through Rachel Rodgers’ The Club, and I quickly grew to respect his intentionality around fatherhood and entrepreneurship. Ryan’s oldest child is neurodivergent, so he faces some unique parenting challenges. In today’s session, we are having an open and honest conversation about the nuances of balancing fatherhood with entrepreneurship, along with how to best handle work disruptions and challenges that come with being a parent. Ryan is full of practical advice that can help others navigate the parenting journey that leaves us all wondering if we are giving our best to our kids. https://www.iamryanspence.com/ (I am Ryan Spence) You’ll Learn: ● How Ryan navigated the transition from corporate law to entrepreneurship as a dad to small children ● Why Ryan was able to follow his heart and leave his law career ● How yoga and personal development have helped Ryan clarify his values and priorities ● How Ryan reconnected with layers of himself after “going through the motions” for several years ● Why we usually default to what seems easy and comfortable ● Why autonomy and creativity became important aspects of life for Ryan ● How Ryan handles day-to-day disruptions in his work ● How giving his kids space in his time and meditating every morning help him be a better dad ● Why it’s important to keep end goals in mind regarding the balance of entrepreneurship and fatherhood, particularly when irritated ● Why the little things are most often the big things ● A sneak peek at Ryan’s new book, coming in April: The Triple C Method: Gain Clarity, Boost Confidence, and Build Courage so You Can Live Life Lit Today's Sponsor: https://sellingthecouch.com/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ) Turning Point HQ is a financial life planning service designed specifically for therapists. Here are some of the things they can help with •Make an intentional + strategic decision about using tax deductions for your practice + what structure (LLC, S-Corp) is best for you. •Learn how to keep your LLC in good standing •Develop an achievable plan to get rid of student load debt. •Make sure you're appropriately having for your child's college education. •Strategically invest your practice income into retirement + wealth building To learn more and connect with Dave + get $200 off any service, please take a moment to download the FREE 7 Money Mistakes That Hold Therapists Back: https://sellingthecouch.com/turningpointhq (https://sellingthecouch.com/turningpointhq) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your...

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Welcome to Session 300! I never even imagined reaching this point, and I’m very grateful to be at this milestone. I love everything about connecting with people through podcasting, so thank you for joining me on this journey. Today’s show is a coaching call about online courses and the imposter syndrome that sneaks in with fear and doubt. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call: Nikki Sewell, LCSW Nikki Sewell was part of our beta group for Online Course School’s eight-week live experience where we went through each step from start to finish in setting up your online course. Nikki is ready to get her pilot students into her course, but she has encountered a lot of fear around charging her worth for her grief course for therapists. Nikki built a successful private practice focusing on the niche of grief counseling, motivated by losing her father to suicide during her grad school years and suddenly losing her husband at age 41 back in 2013. Join the coaching call with Nikki and Melvin! https://milfordgrieftherapist.com/ (Nikki Sewell) You’ll Learn: ● How Nikki found her niche in grief counseling with widows, suicide survivors, and orphaned adults ● Why Nikki views her grief counseling work as something beautiful that empowers people to see “what’s lost, what’s left, and what’s possible” ● How Nikki decided to create her online course to help other grief and trauma therapists ● Why the best online courses combine clinical training with personal experience–like Nikki is doing ● How money blocks, shame, and internal voices get in the way to create imposter syndrome for Nikki ● The new perspective: Nikki’s course is helping clinicians to become better clinicians, help their clients more fully, and become better business owners (who make more money) ● Why we struggle with shame in charging what we are worth because we are a “helping profession” ● How Nikki can implement the same steps in charging for her online course that she employed in establishing her private practice ● How to take a “ladder view” of our expertise and experience, realizing that there are always people on lower rungs who need your help ● Why it’s better to take the tortoise approach and pace yourself in launching a course RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY

Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

?️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

? https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

? https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) ?️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

? https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): ? https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

? https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): ?...

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If you are struggling to build your email list, today’s show can help! With over 300 STC newsletters and 5K subscribers, I’ve learned a few lessons about what works–and what doesn’t. We are fortunate that the STC newsletter has a much higher “open rate” than the 20% average, which can be attributed to what I have discovered along the way. Join me as I go solo today to share my insights that you can put into practice right now. You’ll Learn: ● Why your mindset should be to make recipients excited to open your weekly newsletter ● My tips for building your email list through newsletters: ○ Spend time crafting the subject line. (The https://www.headliner.app/ (Headliner) app helps!) ○ Write to one person. (Picture yourself sitting with a friend around a campfire.) ○ Use the intro section to share a personal story. (Have boundaries and safety considerations in place; I don’t say anything that would embarrass Grandma!) ○ Stick to a consistent format. (We use sections for an intro, top tool, podcast info, and top STC community posts. The https://alltop.com/ (Alltop) and https://www.airr.io/ (Airr) apps help!) ○ Figure out how you can consume content throughout the schedule of your day, like during a commute, workout, daily hike, etc. Resources mentioned in this episode: https://www.headliner.app/ (Headliner), https://alltop.com/ (Alltop), and https://www.airr.io/ (Airr) PODCAST SPONSOR: TURNING POINT HQDavid Frank is the Financial Planner for therapists whose goal is to help us transform your relationship with money. Dave and his team provide help for a range of things including helping us navigate student loans, strategic investing, and retirement. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/turningpointhq (sellingthecouch.com/turningpointhq) to download "The 7 Money Mistakes That Therapists Make" + to get $200 off any listed service just for STC fans. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔...

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Today’s show covers lessons I have learned from launching a successful cohort-based course (CBC). The process takes a lot of work but is very rewarding, so if a CBC is in your future, don’t miss this episode. You’ll Learn: ● How I launched my first online course, The Healthcasters, in 2015, even though I felt like an inadequate novice ● How Online Course School launched in late 2021, with 16 workshops for nine colleagues in the beta cohort group ● Ten lessons learned from my CBC launch: ○ Get your beta students through your email list, previous courses, and Mastermind class colleagues. ○ Screen the participants well. (I did this through one-on-one Zoom calls.) ○ Do welcome calls with breakout rooms, so the students get to know each other. ○ Keep the CBC length around 6-8 weeks, or structure a break after a few weeks if it is longer. ○ Have an assistant with you on all workshops. ○ Tier your support for students at multiple levels. ○ Start with the “I do/we do/you do” framework for teaching. ○ Prep your lessons ahead of time before the cohort begins–not at the same time. ○ Don’t get too high with the highs or too low with the lows. ○ Charge your worth. Resources mentioned: Accelerator programs through http://www.maven.com/ (Maven) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts,...

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Today’s show covers a topic that always brings out the nerd in me. If you are an STC regular, then you know the importance I place on my video and audio gear. With the future of our field being that telehealth is here to stay, a quality home studio setup can help you stand out in your field. For me, the quality of my studio has evolved over the years as I’ve had more money to invest. Join the conversation to learn how to take your videos to the next level by building a dream home studio. Our Featured Guest Kevin Shen Kevin Shen is a consultant who has been producing online videos for more than ten years, doing most of his work on YouTube. He has developed courses to teach what he has learned about making powerful videos and building a professional quality studio. He shares why a professional studio matters, along with practical considerations to make if building a home studio is on your radar for the future. http://www.dreamstudiocourse.com/ (Dream Studio Course) You’ll Learn: Why a professional video studio matters Why online video content is like time travel and space travel How a video studio for therapy helps people who haven’t been served well by traditional talk therapy Three tips for creating a dream home studio: Design your studio around your needs for your workflow. Realize that video allows you to create a space for viewers as you get their attention to your face. Lighting should create depth through a large, diffused light source. How your video components can work to create trust from someone you have never met before Kevin’s course, Dream Studio Course, a cohort that teaches the structure and steps of building a dream home studio Additional resources mentioned: Find out about my gear and software: http://www.kit.co/mvarghese (Kit.co/mvarghese) You can purchase Kevin’s course AND help STC: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/dreamstudiocourse (Dream Studio Course) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️...

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One of the new things for STC this year is the incorporation of coaching calls into the podcast from time to time. Join us for a glimpse into today’s coaching call about online courses. Our Featured Guest for today’s coaching call Heather McKenzie, LCMHCS Heather McKenzie came through Online Course School as a beta student back in the fall of 2021. Online Course School is a live, eight-week experience that takes your online course from a simple idea all the way through the development stages so that you are ready to record. Heather created a course specifically focused on anxiety that can be found at http://www.dialdownanxiety.com/ (Dial Down Anxiety). Like most of us who create an online course, she faced a common struggle about how to handle marketing time and costs to promote her course. Join us to hear the coaching call! http://www.mckenziecounseling.org/ (McKenzie Counseling)  You’ll Learn: How to handle logistical challenges in the online presentation of your course Why Heather’s course is an eight-week course to help people understand anxiety and DBT emotion regulation skills How marketing options for an online course can be overwhelming for most people  How to pinpoint your own superpowers in teaching and the style that works best for you How to structure the content levels for promoting your course in six-month blocks: Start with webinars, both free and paid. Offer a downloadable guide or cheat sheet. Use a core blog post as a stand-alone feature that blows people away. Tips from Melvin about content levels: Offering too many things can confuse people, so stick with one core webinar. Less is more! Be thoughtful about using the words “webinar” and “workshop” so as not to intimidate people. Link your blog post videos to YouTube to drive more traffic back to your webinar. Consider that high-quality offerings through webinars, guides, and blog posts help to establish your authority as an expert and give people value that keeps them returning. How podcasting can help with future promotion by giving a call-to-action to your webinar Why you need to take notes during the first offering of your course with beta students to know what content resonates the most; that content can be used for future free webinars In summary, five tools to market an online course that have evergreen potential: Webinar (start with live ones and then transition to evergreen ones) Downloadable guides or cheat sheets Core blog post Select podcast episodes Mini-podcast 

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)) MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide

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I’m excited to begin a new year and a new season with you! While we were on the holiday break, STC hit a huge milestone of 1.2 million downloads, which is unbelievable to me. I’m so grateful for the success of STC and being able to offer this resource. Today’s show focuses on one of my favorite topics, which is personal finance. Investing can be overwhelming and very confusing. Join us to learn how anyone can approach investing with knowledge and confidence. Our Featured Guest: Andy Gupta Andy Gupta and I have become good friends over the past couple of months. He is a kind and genuine person who worked for 20 years on Wall Street. He is a graduate of Harvard Business School who understands the ins and outs of investing, and he wants to make investing more approachable for average people. Andy has a particular passion to help women understand investing, and he looks to use his wealth in ways that help others. Andy’s 30-day investing course: http://www.maven.com/andy-gupta/anyone-can-invest-now (Anyone Can Invest Now) Andy's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/418356686326993 (https://www.facebook.com/groups/418356686326993) Andy's LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/andy-gupta (http://linkedin.com/in/andy-gupta) You’ll Learn: ● Andy’s background of growing up in a family without wealth in Mumbai, India, and then going to college in the US while holding multiple jobs to make ends meet ● Why Andy feels that his mission is to help others with investing so they can achieve financial security and freedom ● Why Andy’s definition of financial freedom revolves around increased time spent with his family, creating a financial safety net for them, and making a positive impact on others ● Three mistakes that the average investor makes: ○ Trying to “time” the market ■ “This is a fool’s errand. The difference in trying to time the market vs. staying in for the long haul is astronomical.” ○ Believing that cash in the bank is safe ■ You are guaranteed to lose money every year because of inflation. ○ Taking on too much risk by overexposing themselves in one area ■ It's best to mix asset classes to reduce your risk and potentially increase your return for the level of risk ● Andy’s tips for investing smartly: ○ Have a cash reserve on hand. ○ Diversity by investing in asset classes that don’t “move together.” Today's Podcast Sponsor: https://sellingthecouch.com/wellerz (Wellerz)Wellerz is an innovative idea that addresses two big problems that therapists have when it comes to office space. First, if you own office space, being able to rent it out for hours you're not using it in order to supplement our therapy income. Second, if you're looking for office space, being able to rent it by the hour vs. a chunk of time like .5 day of full-day, which may not make sense and/or is cost-prohibitive (e.g., if you're just starting out in private practice). Wellerz addresses both through an easy-to-navigate website where therapists can list their office space, easily screen clinicians who would be using it, and get paid. Listing is office space is free + Wellerz only makes money if an office space is booked. And if you're a clinician looking for office space, Wellerz makes it easy to find + rent office space by the hour. To learn more + get a 1-hour free credit to book anywhere (for STC fans only), please check out https://sellingthecouch.com/wellerz (https://sellingthecouch.com/wellerz) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A...

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Today’s solo episode topic may be one you’ve thought a lot about, or it may be something that hasn’t crossed your mind. We are discussing the ins and outs of creating a membership site, something that comes up frequently in discussions in the STC Facebook community. It’s something I’ve been trying to figure out over the past 13 months. We are talking about what goes into creating a membership site, how to launch it, how to create it, and more. I’m sharing the lessons I’ve learned along the way, and I really hope this closer look at creating a membership site is helpful for you, either right now, or as something you might utilize in the future.Join us! RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life...

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When it comes to your business, how much is ENOUGH? How do you even know what enough is? These are questions we can all use some clarity about, along with evaluating the success of our business. Today’s show is a solo episode and the last one before I take the month of August off for a time of self-care and refreshment before returning with new shows in September. I’ve begun doing this a few times each year and have seen great benefit in the downtime. This particular break has added meaning, as we prepare to welcome our first baby in just a few weeks. I know that this transition to parenthood will mean changes in my personal life and in my business, so it’s a very fitting time to take a reflective look at this concept of ENOUGH. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸...

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What techniques have you found that help you stay on task each day? Maybe you have some tried and true habits, or maybe you recognize the need to put in place a little more structure. Either way, there is inspiration waiting for you in today’s show! Solo episodes are always fun for me because I love getting to share with you what I’m learning. Today’s topic is about the habits I’ve incorporated to maximize my productivity on a week-to-week basis. For many of us, our self-worth is measured by how much we get done, and it’s taken work for me to get past that judgmental place. I’ve found some things that work well for me; some are based on experience, learning, and tweaking, and some are based on research. I hope my tips will inspire you to evaluate your productivity and see what might work better for you. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍...

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Today’s topic is one that puzzles many clinicians and leaves us feeling uncomfortable. We’ve approached setting fees on past episodes, but today we are diving deeper into setting fees that ensure our profitability. How do we make sure our business is growing, thriving, and allowing for future expansion? Join us as we learn more with today’s guest. Reina Lombardi is an art therapist based in Florida. She has a wealth of experience and knowledge about debt, building a business, and setting fees. Reina understands the many challenges in owning a private practice, and she knows that we need to be profitable. I hope our conversation gives you a practical perspective on using objective data, and not emotions, to figure out where your numbers should be. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸...

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Today’s show is about search engine optimization (SEO), an essential aspect of your private practice website. The truth is that you can have the most beautifully designed website on the planet, but it won’t help your practice if it doesn’t attract people. If you’re confused about trying to navigate the world of SEO, then this is the show you don’t want to miss! Dr. Maelisa Hall is a licensed psychologist and digital marketing expert. She’s here to break down the intimidating world of SEO with language that’s easy to understand. She covers her three foundational tips and the things we need to do to beef up our website content to make sure our website has what it takes to attract those ideal clients. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly...

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As a clinician, do you have a social media policy? Is it something you’ve ever considered? If not, then this show may open your eyes to this topic. How can we as clinicians create a sound social media policy while navigating the intersection of our personal and professional lives? Dr. Keely Kolmes is a psychologist, speaker, consultant, writer, researcher, and innovator in San Francisco and Oakland, CA. Dr. Keely’s work covers many areas, but the development of a social media policy is one specific area of expertise. Let’s hear more about this interesting topic from Dr. Keely! RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? 

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD),...

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Since STC usually focuses on aspects of the journey into private practice, today’s show is different. We are talking to someone who decided to take her skill set in another direction and move away from private practice. A traditional talk-therapy practice isn’t for everyone, and there are other therapeutic healing modalities that can be fulfilling and meaningful. Join us to learn more! Hayley Hansen is a body-centered healer based in Phoenix, Arizona. She was a Licensed Professional Counselor who became fascinated with bodywork healing methods through yoga; Hayley decided to give up her LPC license to pursue her calling. She shares her journey with us and what she’s learned along the way, including the early indicators that a traditional talk therapy practice just wasn’t the right fit for her. We will also discuss how she worked through internal and external struggles and decided to focus on bodywork healing methods. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course...

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We are tackling another topic relevant to the pandemic crisis. This particular time is a good chance to think about private practice in different ways than ever before. If you’ve ever considered blogging as a way to build your practice and expand your reach to your ideal clients, then this is the show for you. Lauren Hahn is a licensed mental health counselor in Orlando, Florida. She has built a successful private practice through blogging. In this episode, Lauran shares the process that she’s gone through for the past several years in starting her blog and evolving that blog to cater to her ideal clients. She explains where she finds inspiration and content for her posts that are now released regularly each week. We wrap up the conversation by discussing the most important lessons she’s learned along the way. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍...

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During times like these, it’s essential to think outside the box, but every decision has business and financial implications. One way to survive the pandemic shutdown is to pull back from one-on-one work and create income streams that aren’t dependent on being there in person. If you’re curious to know more, then join us for this episode. Jackie Flynn teaches therapists how to integrate EMDR Therapy and Play Therapy techniques, and she is launching a membership site this year. In this episode, Jackie and I will discuss what I’ve learned through my experiences, and we’ll brainstorm the process of launching a membership site. Jackie talks about her struggles regarding creating content and how to best release it, and we’ll discuss how to handle testimonials legally and ethically. This conversation takes a deep dive, and we have lots of helpful information to share. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter)...

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This is the last podcast episode for this year as I take some extra time off to refresh, recharge, and get new episodes ready for 2022. In this solo episode, I’m reflecting and sharing the top five business lessons I have learned this year and what I’ll be focusing on for the upcoming year. You’ll Learn: ● How I was intentional about taking an indefinite sabbatical from clinical work to focus fully on STC (See Episode 210 for the full story.) ● Why humbling realizations came to me about the difficulties in running two businesses, delivering clarity about my calling, and my desire to build a life around my family ● How this decision has significantly improved my mental health and sleep quality ● Five Business Lessons I’ve Learned this Year: ○ #1--”I don’t want to keep swapping Corelle plates.” ■ I’m focusing now on four things: the STC podcast, The Healthcasters course and community, Online Course School, and a high-level Mastermind group--and this feels right to me. ○ #2--What is ENOUGH? ■ Success and personal worth are not solely measured in finances, and there are other aspects of life that are higher priorities. ○ #3--I love teaching and want to create more space for that. ■ Creating exercises to help students learn brings me great satisfaction and happiness. ○ #4--I value a few deep and authentic relationships with fellow creators. ■ I love these friendships and the connection we have to do life and our business journeys together. ○ #5--Slow and steady growth is fine. ■ This pace of life makes sense to me and suits me, and I couldn’t ask for anything more than this meaningful and purposeful life. ● My primary goals for 2022: ○ Work intentionally on my money stuff. ○ Focus on making Online Course School an amazing experience for therapists. One of the questions I get asked all the time as a podcaster is “what podcasts do you listen or subscribe to?” This might surprise you, but there's really only one show that I absolutely have to listen to . . . every week. Actually, every day. Like, I'll literally drop what I'm doing (unless I'm with the family of course) and listen to each episode when it drops. The show is Tesla Daily, which is why I couldn't be more thrilled to have its host Rob Maurer on the show today! If you want a behind-the-curtain peek at how someone with over 100,000 YouTube subscribers produces a hard-hitting podcast every day, you're in the right place. Rob built this show from the ground up and incredibly, launched his first episode from concept to publish in just 48 – 72 hours. Even more impressive is how Rob's built a trust-worthy brand in such a crowded space. What does it take to keep up production with a daily show like this? Why does Rob do what he does and how did he get started? How do you combine an audio-first podcast with the power of YouTube? And what does Rob do when Elon Musk posts a controversial tweet? All that and more today — press play, y'all! Our Featured Guest Rob MaurerRob Maurer has been a Tesla retail investor since 2013 and started the Tesla Daily podcast in 2017 to help people understand the company and contextualize the flurry of news surrounding Tesla. In 2019, Rob expanded the podcast to YouTube, amassing 100,000 subscribers in less than a year. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgYkuL87rUwiBl7tqfN53Eg (YouTube) https://www.twitter.com/teslapodcast (Twitter)

You'll Learn:How a gap in mainstream reporting and the pursuit of neuroplasticity led to Tesla Daily Why producing his podcast on top of a full-time job led Rob to a critical decision point How Rob 10X'd his audience by taking Tesla Daily to YouTube Rob's workflow, end-to-end, for producing a podcast episode for podcast platforms and YouTube What Rob focuses on when researching material for his podcast How Rob handles stress and pressure from the growth of his show Why naming his podcast Tesla Daily became a source of motivation for Rob Where Rob's revenue...

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Today’s topic is one that many clinicians have navigated, are navigating, or will navigate in the future. It’s the idea of increasing fees with existing clients. I’ve seen this topic come up repeatedly in online groups for therapists, and I know it brings anxiety and confusion. Let’s dig into it together! Our Featured Guests Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer are therapists, private practice owners, and the founders of ZynnyMe, where they teach and train therapists to build valuable and gratifying businesses. Their year-long training program, Business School Bootcamp, is a super-powerful system that teaches therapists everything they wish they had learned in grad school about running a successful private practice. In this episode, Kelly and Miranda will discuss the idea that we are betraying our client if we increase fees, along with ways to work through that mindset. We will cover the nitty-gritty of how to communicate fee increases to clients with all the logistical nuances. Our conversation wraps up with simple scripts you can use during sessions to stay on track, be clear, and affirm your clients without causing feelings of abandonment. http://www.zynnyme.com/ (www.zynnyme.com)  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/starting-a-counseling-practice-with-kelly-miranda/id1398391639 (Starting a Counseling Practice Podcast) You’ll Learn: ● Why the idea of increasing fees is intimidating even though many therapists are leaving a lot of money on the table ● Why increasing fees ties into mixed messages in our minds about our self worth and value ● How the cumulative effect of a sliding scale adds up to significant amounts over time and reflects bias that we usually guard against ● How automation in today’s world allows us to avoid those difficult conversations ● Why the recommendation is to create a letter but have the conversation with the client in session; give them the letter after the conversation (or email virtual clients) ● Why the letter is a transitional object and shouldn’t make excuses for the fee increase ● Ideas for scripting the notification letter and stating the fee increase ● The need for us to be honest with our clients to be able to continue providing great care ● The misconception that schedules and fees should always stay the same; these are unrealistic expectations! ● How to present workable options to clients without feeling like you’re abandoning them ● Why clinicians have to do what it takes to care for themselves before they can care for their clients ● Highlights in the conversation with clients about increasing fees: ○ Own your emotions about it. ○ Let the client know the relationship with them is valuable to you. ○ Check in with the client’s feelings and options moving forward. ● Why the window of notice should be long enough to prepare for termination or referral One of the questions I get asked all the time as a podcaster is “what podcasts do you listen or subscribe to?” This might surprise you, but there's really only one show that I absolutely have to listen to . . . every week. Actually, every day. Like, I'll literally drop what I'm doing (unless I'm with the family of course) and listen to each episode when it drops. The show is Tesla Daily, which is why I couldn't be more thrilled to have its host Rob Maurer on the show today! If you want a behind-the-curtain peek at how someone with over 100,000 YouTube subscribers produces a hard-hitting podcast every day, you're in the right place. Rob built this show from the ground up and incredibly, launched his first episode from concept to publish in just 48 – 72 hours. Even more impressive is how Rob's built a trust-worthy brand in such a crowded space. What does it take to keep up production with a daily show like this? Why does Rob do what he does and how did he get started? How do you combine an audio-first podcast with the power of YouTube? And what does Rob do...

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Have you ever considered writing a children’s book? I’ll admit that I’ve thought about it, and it might be a new endeavor in my future. Writing a children’s book takes creativity and planning, and much perseverance is required to navigate the publishing process. Join me as I talk to a longtime friend who has been through the process and published two children’s books. Our Featured Guest Amy Jivani Amy is a childhood friend of mine who has become a children’s book author. Her latest book, Meera’s Flowers, tells the story of a young girl celebrating an Indian holiday while living in America. She also wrote More Than Words: A Book About Body Language, a story about body language and feelings. Amy is a former first-grade teacher who is inspired by her students and her cultural background to write children’s books with ethnically diverse characters. Amy shares with us where she gets ideas for books and how the creative process works. We also discuss the concept of self-publishing compared to the traditional publishing route. We wrap up with Amy’s insights into the hardest part about writing and releasing a book during a pandemic. http://www.amyjivani.com/ (www.amyjivani.com)  You’ll Learn: ● Where Amy’s inspiration came from for Meera’s Flowers ● Amy’s advice for other aspiring writers: ○ Write something you can champion. ○ Storyboard your ideas as you begin. ● How the traditional publishing route requires resilience and seems like a “closed club” ● Why Amy decided not to self-publish her first book ● How Amy realized that creative stories could teach and reinforce important concepts to children in more memorable ways ● How Amy gives herself creative space to think and produce rather than setting aside a disciplined time slot ● The hardest part of what Amy has accomplished: getting publishers to see the quality of what she wrote and releasing a book during a pandemic when typical book promotion is a no-go ● How Amy handles the newfound attention of being a published author with humility RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host...

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What would it be like to own and run your own group therapy practice--including the building? And to complicate matters, what if the whole endeavor is getting off the ground during a global pandemic? It might sound crazy, but you’ll hear the details from today’s guest who is making it all happen after facing down all the obstacles. Join us! Our Featured Guest Karen Grayson, PhD, LPC Dr. Karen Grayson had a vision a few years ago of owning a therapy practice building, so she followed through with the big purchase in 2018. She’s here to help us navigate through the challenges of owning a therapy practice building during a pandemic. The Center for Inner Transformation, in St. Louis, is a place where Karen combines philosophy, therapy, and spirituality on an integrated pathway to her clients’ personal and collective development, and it’s also home for the practices of three other clinicians. She shares where the idea of buying a building came from, how she went into the process, along with practical steps that she took during the pandemic. We wrap up today’s conversation with four pieces of advice that Karen would give to her younger self about this undertaking. https://thecenterstl.com/ (www.thecenterstl.com ) You’ll Learn: ● How Karen began with the dream to purchase a therapy building ● How she moved from vision to implementation through finding comfort in the unknown ● How Karen’s journey unfolded from her teaching role to group therapy ● How Karen purchased her office building in 2018, dealt with two colleagues who backed out after the purchase, and endured a difficult neighbor in the office park ● Why Karen learned to be gentle with herself and fierce in her purpose, staying grounded in the uncertainty ● How the drawbacks in the process led to feelings of failure and depression for Karen ● How she persevered with a deep commitment to her purpose and a willingness to fail ● How Karen learned the value in having support people in place from STC ● How the pandemic has affected Karen and her endeavors ● How word-of-mouth referrals have benefitted Karen’s business ● Why we need to know what our strengths are ● How Karen deals with her core wound of not being good enough ● How things worked out for Karen when she “let go and listened” ● Karen’s pieces of advice to her younger self about purchasing the building during a pandemic: ○ Everything is an invitation for growth. ○ The birthing process is always a hard thing. ○ I’m not in charge of time. ○ Be open to a larger container. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you

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Today’s show is about navigating long-haul COVID symptoms and life as a private practitioner. I wanted to have a non-academic conversation about this intriguing topic from a real-life perspective. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Robert Cox, MA, LPC, NCC Robert Cox is a private practitioner in Kentucky. He contracted COVID back in December. After a few weeks, he noticed that his symptoms improved a little but then continued. You’ll hear Robert’s story of his long-haul COVID symptoms and navigating through it as a private practitioner, especially regarding what to disclose to clients. https://tjrecovery.org/ (Tristn Jevon Center for Recovery) You’ll learn: ● What it means to have “long-haul COVID” ● How long-haul COVID symptoms can vary with dementia-like brain fog, heart problems, physical exhaustion, night sweats, etc. ● Robert’s story of contracting COVID last December from his daughter and facing moments of panic because of his asthma ● How Robert’s symptoms were complicated by the death of his son in February 2021 ● How Robert learned to deal with long-haul COVID by taking more time off and learning to be more efficient, organized, and focused ● How Robert’s exhaustion and fatigue are impacting his daily life and activity level ● Why there is no standard treatment protocol for long-haul COVID ● How Robert is using meditation to cope with the daily challenges of life and work ● What Robert has learned about having limits and setting boundaries ● How Robert decided to share openly with his clients about his experience ● What Robert has learned about his resilience because of the support from his wife ● How Robert is functioning better because of the system changes he has put in place ● Why Robert’s #1 message to everyone is to get the COVID vaccine RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online...

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Today’s show is about one of my most favorite topics in the world: sleep. I’ll admit that my thinking about sleep has changed a lot over the years as I’ve learned more. Whether you’re a champion sleeper or someone who needs to pay more attention to rest, today’s show has helpful information and expert tips for you. Join us! Our Featured Guest Liz Slonena Liz Slonena is a psychologist in Asheville, NC. She has expertise in sleep and insomnia, and I wanted to have her share her insights with us. Pandemic stressors and the blurred lines between work life and home life have been contributing factors to sleep problems for many therapists. We will talk about why quality sleep matters, the basics of sleep cycles, and how our hustle culture has impacted our sleep. We’ll finish up with practical tips about improving sleep. http://www..drlizlistens.com/ (www.drlizlistens.com)  Use code #STC for premium access to Aura, an all-in-one wellness app Find Dr. Liz’s free mindful hypnosis videos on https://www.youtube.com/c/yourzenwithinrelaxwithdrliz/search (YouTube) You’ll Learn: ● What happens during the normal sleep cycles: light, restful, deep, and REM ● How disruptions can affect sleep cycles ● The connection between quality sleep and mood ● How sleep helps your immune system, neurogenesis, and muscle growth and repair ● How deep sleep is the “washing cycle” for brain and body, flushing out negative thoughts and toxins ● How hustle culture and internalized capitalism (the belief that our worth is tied to our productivity and what we DO) can compound our sleep difficulties ● Why sleep is the first thing we cut away when cramped for time, even though it’s really our most effective superpower ● The specific challenges of entrepreneurship in getting enough sleep ● The intricacies of racism and stereotypes related to internalized capitalism ● Why rest is rebellious and radical empowerment ● The importance of finding peace and balance in life through prioritizing rest ● Liz’s tips for improved sleep: ○ Clearly communicate boundaries to clients and colleagues about your hours and availability. ○ Have a physical wind-down ritual for your body and mind to signal the transition from work. ○ Write a gratitude or “win” list each night before bed. ● What’s up next for Dr. Liz? Become a Better Sleeper course and podcast are coming soon! Today’s Sponsor:https://sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme ( Zynnyme)Zynnyme was founded in 2010 by therapists and private practice owners Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer. Kelly and Miranda have become good friends of mine who have helped me immensely on my business journey + they've helped over 50k of our colleagues. I credit their Business School Boot Camp for helping build the business and life that I imagined. Their values align with mine in helping clients build valuable and gratifying businesses while living healthy, happy, and sustainable lives. Check out their website for a wealth of resources and services + sign up for a free four-day, live private practice marketing masterclass they're putting together to help us establish a private practice with the best outcomes and income at https://www.sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme (sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻...

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So much of what we do as clinicians revolves around leadership, even though we may not be comfortable thinking of ourselves that way. If we are truly leaders in what we do, it makes sense to learn all we can about making ourselves the best leaders possible. The world needs good leaders! Join us as we discuss all things leadership development in today’s show Our Featured Guest Jevin Koleth Jevin Koleth is a leadership coach who happens to be a childhood friend of mine. He has vast experience in what it means to be a leader through his time as a regional manager for a major healthcare system in Texas. I want you to hear Jevin’s insights about why leadership needs to be developed first at the individual level before implementing the more popular team approach. We also dive into how leadership has changed as a result of the pandemic, and we wrap up with personal and real-life experiences from Jevin that can help you in your growth as a leader. https://www.instagram.com/jevinkoleth/?hl=en (Jevin Koleth ) You’ll Learn: ● Why effective leadership development has to begin at the individual level with a solid foundation ● The first steps in an individualized approach to leadership training: ○ Identify the person’s personal purpose and mission ○ Identify the person’s barriers to being their best self ● How Jevin becomes an accountability coach in helping people develop long-term habits ● Why the mass team approach to leadership training needs to FOLLOW after the foundational individual approach ● Why it’s good to develop one’s self as a leader to be the best version of yourself ● How an impactful leader will come across with consistency ● How leadership has changed during the pandemic in the three areas of remote leadership, interpersonal skills, and team culture ● Jevin’s pearls of wisdom about going back to work in the office ● Why a leader’s goal should be positive outcomes from difficult conversations ● Highlights of Jevin’s current work as a leadership coach Today’s Sponsor:https://sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme ( Zynnyme)Zynnyme was founded in 2010 by therapists and private practice owners, Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer. Kelly and Miranda have become good friends of mine who have helped me immensely on my business journey + they've helped over 50k of our colleagues. I credit their Business School Boot Camp for helping build the business and life that I imagined. Their values align with mine in helping clients build valuable and gratifying businesses while living healthy, happy, and sustainable lives. Check out their website for a wealth of resources and services + sign up for a free 4 day, live private practice marketing masterclass they're putting together to help us establish a private practice with the best outcomes and income at https://www.sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme (sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧...

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Today’s show is about building an online directory, which is hugely relevant to every clinician. Whether you’ve used an online directory to refer clients or thought about creating a directory to help other clinicians and clients, you know that it is a valuable resource that makes it easier to find a therapist who can help with very specific needs. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Laura Reagan, LCSW-C Laura Reagan is a clinical social worker and integrative trauma specialist in Maryland who had the idea to create a directory for trauma therapists, Trauma Therapist Network. She’s a trauma survivor who has specifically worked around trauma for the past 19 years. Through her years of experience, she has learned a lot about the nuances of trauma therapy, the services available, and what services are lacking. Laura gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how her idea for the directory evolved, the logical steps in the creation process, and the helpful resources that are available in creating an online directory. We wrap up today’s conversation with a look at what has gone well in Laura’s process and the things that are being constantly tweaked along the way. https://traumatherapistnetwork.com/ (Trauma Therapist Network) You’ll Learn: ●     How Laura got the idea to create an online directory of trauma therapists ●     How Laura saw the need and made the leap to create the online directory ●     How the directory helps people find the specific therapy focus that aligns with their trauma ●     How the directory goes beyond finding a therapist but also helps inform and educate people about trauma and its effects ●     The first steps Laura took to take the online directory from an idea to reality ●     Why Laura was willing to make the intentional commitment of time, effort, and money (lots of money!) to make the directory a thoroughly usable resource that helps people feel safe, hopeful, and reassured ●     How Laura conveys the important message through the directory that trauma doesn’t define a person and that there is hope to improve and make a better life ●     Why Laura had to allow herself to receive help and support in the development process ●     How creating the directory has been similar to giving birth to a child and watching it grow and develop into what it was meant to be Today’s Sponsor:https://sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme ( Zynnyme)Zynnyme was founded in 2010 by therapists and private practice owners, Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer. Kelly and Miranda have become good friends of mine who have helped me immensely on my business journey + they've helped over 50k of our colleagues. I credit their Business School Boot Camp for helping build the business and life that I imagined. Their values align with mine in helping clients build valuable and gratifying businesses while living healthy, happy, and sustainable lives. Check out their website for a wealth of resources and services + sign up for a free 4 day, live private practice marketing masterclass they're putting together to help us establish a private practice with the best outcomes and income at https://www.sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme (sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using...

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Welcome to a new season of STC! Today’s conversation is different from the typical STC session, as it was inspired by a thread created in the STC community about healthcare providers dismissing legitimate medical concerns. This situation is one that you might encounter personally or with your clients, so I hope you’ll find our conversation helpful and informative. Join us! Our Featured Guest Danielle Hughes, MA, LPC Danielle Hughes is in private practice in Loveland, CO. Danielle shared her perspective in the STC community as someone with a chronic illness who struggled for 12 years to get a proper diagnosis. She interacted with several healthcare providers who didn’t believe that her physical issues could be attributed to anything other than stress and trauma. It’s been quite a journey for Danielle, who was just recently diagnosed with an autoimmune disease that truly affects her energy levels on a daily basis. In today’s session, Danielle shares her story and the challenges she has overcome with the fortitude to keep going when doctors attributed her problems to psychological issues. We also dive deep into practical questions you can ask in sessions with clients who have chronic illnesses and related psychological concerns. Find Danielle Hughes on Facebook and Instagram, @daniellehughesLPC You’ll Learn: ●     About Danielle’s health journey that began with joint pain and fatigue in college ●     How she was dismissed by the medical community as her physical concerns were attributed to stress for 12 years ●     How Danielle found the fortitude to keep pushing forward with multiple doctors and specialists to get a diagnosis of an autoimmune disease ●     About the route Danielle took with her PCP, the VA system, and multiple specialists ●     Danielle’s advice for clinicians dealing with clients with physical issues in addition to psychological concerns ●     Why it’s important to believe the client and not relate everything to trauma or anxiety ●     How clinicians can be most helpful by asking questions and being supportive to understand the whole of the client’s life ●     Why we should respond with compassion and curiosity when we are tempted to assume there’s nothing wrong with someone who appears “fine” ●     About a typical day/week for Danielle, a clinician in private practice with a chronic autoimmune disease ●     How Danielle deals with days when she struggles to function as a clinician Today’s Sponsor:https://sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme ( Zynnyme)Zynnyme was founded in 2010 by therapists and private practice owners, Kelly Higdon and Miranda Palmer. Kelly and Miranda have become good friends of mine who have helped me immensely on my business journey + they've helped over 50k of our colleagues. I credit their Business School Boot Camp for helping build the business and life that I imagined. Their values align with mine in helping clients build valuable and gratifying businesses while living healthy, happy, and sustainable lives. Check out their website for a wealth of resources and services + sign up for a free 4 day, live private practice marketing masterclass they're putting together to help us establish a private practice with the best outcomes and income at https://www.sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme (sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I...

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As STC has grown, I’ve been wanting to address this topic of getting on other podcasts as a guest. In a typical week, I receive several requests from people wanting to be a guest on STC.  There are several reasons why I cannot accept every one of those requests, and there are things to consider in remaining authentic while seeking podcast appearances. In this solo episode, we discuss some tips to follow if you want to increase your exposure by appearing on podcasts. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? 

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online creator living in Philadelphia, PA. In 2014, I began to think about how to use the

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This is the follow-up to last week’s podcast about creating a professional livestream. We’ve already covered the gear you’ll need, so today’s show focuses on creating the content for your livestream. Join me for Part 2! If you listened to Episode 258, you might be saying, “OK, Melvin, I have the gear, so what else do I need to do to prep for my livestream?” I’m glad you asked! After only doing livestreams for a few months, I’ve already learned a lot (including some very cool timesaving hacks and helpful tools), and I’m eager to share those experiences with you. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? 

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and...

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As rewarding as it is to start your own podcast and share your knowledge and expertise with the world, there is one thing that makes it even better--and that’s monetizing your podcast. Wouldn’t it be a dream come true to make money from your podcast? You might think it’s the impossible dream, but today’s show brings practical information and simple tips for monetization that can expand your reach, extend the life of your podcast, and free up more of your time for quality content creation. Christy Haussler is the founder of Team Podcast, a full-service podcast editing and production company. She’s been my podcast editor since 2015, when I realized I needed help with podcast editing. Christy and her team work behind the scenes to produce, edit, and upload podcasts, and they are the main reason the STC podcast goes out each week. Christy began her podcast editing service around the same time as STC, and her team currently edits about 60 different podcasts and about 300 episodes each month. Christy has a unique and interesting perspective on what people are doing to create income through podcasting, and she’s here to share those insights with us.

RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. =

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The pandemic and months of quarantine have many of us relying more than ever on video. We use video for meetings, live sessions, live-streaming, and other content, so it’s important to have the best quality possible. Join us to learn more. Michael Rothermel is my videographer who filmed the welcome video for STC back in 2017. We were part of the same faith community while Michael lived in the Philly area, and I can’t believe I haven’t had him on the show until now. He’ll share his top tips to improve the quality of live videos. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? 

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online creator living in

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This is the last episode until September while I take some time off to focus on self-care before the summer ends. Today’s episode is a valuable one if you are thinking about launching an online course sometime soon or in the future. My encouragement to you is to do it! Get started! Join me for this solo episode in which we discuss the basics. You’ll Learn ● The most common reasons to launch an online course: to put your message out there to impact more people in different locations, to feel more fulfilled in your purpose, to diversify income streams, and to spark more creativity ● The highlights of my online course creation story that began in 2015---complete with all the doubts and fears ● How my first online course has surpassed my wildest dreams in passing the $200K mark in revenue ● What it means to me to build a successful online course: ○ I can build a life around my loved ones and self-care instead of fitting my loved ones and self-care around my career. ○ We as a family can contribute time and resources to organizations that make the world a better place. ○ I can create my ideal retirement schedule years before I actually retire. ● Why I want you to write down the completion to this statement: “A successful online course for me would mean . . .” ● Five pieces of advice to help you avoid the mistakes I made: ○ Online course creation is a long road---don’t rush it! ○ Don’t pick an online course platform because it’s cheap or free. ○ The first version of your online course will not be the final version. ○ See your online course as part of a larger value ladder rather than a one-off offering. ○ Build your course in community with others. ● Why you might want to join my newest online course that will launch soon! Resources mentioned: The online course platform that I use: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/cartra (www.sellingthecouch.com/cartra) Today's Sponsor: Online Course School I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course, whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work. Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting started: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course. Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops from Mel and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done. By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course. We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with six members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a part of, please check out my free http://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (A to Z Online Course Guide). The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2...

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Today’s topic is a popular one that affects many people. I’m not ashamed to say that I have struggled with mental health and depression. It’s especially important to know how to balance mental health and the challenges of entrepreneurship. Join us for this incredibly open and honest conversation. Our Featured Guest-Rebekah Shackney, LCSW Rebekah Shackney has struggled with depression, which runs on both sides of her family. She’s here to share her story and how her life and business have been impacted. She will help guide us and share what she has learned in building a successful practice around therapy and DBT groups. If you hear those voices of doubt and fear in your head, join us to hear Rebekah’s helpful insight about the delicate dance of managing mental health and the demands of entrepreneurship. Rebekah Shackney You’ll Learn: ● How Rebekah’s struggle with genetic depression began ● Why one of the worst parts of depression is believing the lies that depression tells you ● How motherhood intensified depression for Rebekah as she experienced postpartum depression as she tried to balance work and parenthood ● How Rebekah started out in private practice but didn’t feel successful or “good enough” ● How she was paralyzed by envy of others and their success ● How she found the energy and determination to make changes and adjustments ● Why Rebekah started a podcast, A Therapist Takes Her Own Advice ● How she changed her money mindset to squelch the voices of doubt and fear ● Techniques that Rebekah has used to confront fear and get through it ● How Rebekah can show up and do what she wants to do in life to serve and help others ● How DBT can help people take ownership, accept their situation, and take steps to make changes ● Rebekah’s #1 piece of advice to clinicians: “Pay for the supervision you need and deserve.” Today's Sponsor: Online Course School I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course, whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work. Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting started: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course. Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops from Mel and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done. By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course. We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with six members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a part of, please check out my free http://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (A to Z Online Course Guide). The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream...

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I have to admit that the topic of personal finance excites the nerd in me. I love reading and learning more about all things around finance! Investing intelligently and planning for retirement are often intimidating areas in which we can always benefit from expert advice. Join us to learn how you can make solid investment decisions and better prepare for your future. Our Featured Guest-Dave Frank, Certified Financial Planner Dave Frank is the founder of Turning Point Financial Life Planning, which focuses on helping clinicians in private practice manage their retirement and finances. Dave has a heart to empower therapists around money and finances so they can be more present and centered in all areas of personal and professional life. In today’s show, we will begin by looking at the information and misinformation about investing that have come forward during the pandemic. Dave shares strategies for financial management, including why investing in the stock market is a good idea. Our conversation turns to retirement options for solo and group practitioners and a brief look at cryptocurrency. https://turningpointhq.com/ (Turning Point Financial Life Planning) Use the promo code “STC” for 20% off Dave’s Quick Start Coaching Intensive! You’ll Learn ●     Why most people don’t know the basics of sound investing ●     Why “passively managed, low-cost, tax efficient mutual funds” are the best tools for long-term investing---(Dave explains the terminology!) ●     The difference between investing and gambling for long-term financial goals ●     The important question about investing: What are my goals? ●     The basics of mutual funds ●     A sound and simple investing strategy that Dave recommends ●     Why your allocations should shift to funds with less volatility and less return as you near retirement age ●     Dave’s investment advice for beginners about getting started with target-date accounts and emergency savings ●     Why solo practitioners should be careful not to overcontribute to a retirement account ●     Dave’s opinion about investing in cryptocurrency--does it make sense for therapists? Today's Sponsor: Online Course SchoolI know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work. Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting started: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course. Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops from Mel and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done. By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course. We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with six members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a part of, please check out my free http://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (A to Z Online Course Guide). The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021. RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are...

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Today’s show is a live coaching call regarding a topic that has been very relevant to me recently. We are talking about the many nuances of online courses. I hope this episode will be helpful to you and bring new ideas if an online course is on your radar. Our Featured Guest-Kristen Boice, LMFT Kristen Boice is a therapist in private practice and a fellow podcaster. She has realized the need among her listeners for an online course. Her podcast, Close the Chapter, is about closing the chapter on certain things in our lives so we can open ourselves up to new opportunities. In today’s coaching call, I’ll share some lessons I’ve learned along the way about online courses. We’ll talk about the rationale behind creating a live course vs. a pre-recorded one. We will wrap up with a pre-launch strategy to help get buyers for your course before you launch. http://www.pathwaystohealingcounseling.com/ (Pathways To Healing Counseling)  http://www.kristendboice.com/ (Kristen Boice) You’ll Learn ●     Why Kristen started her podcast about two years ago to provide another opportunity for deeper work for her clients ●     How an online course can help you get more information out to curious people ●     The options for your course and other services ●     Why niching down is a big challenge for therapists ●     How Kristen sees the epidemic of people feeling “not good enough” and being scared to speak up ●     How a niche can help you offer value and find your sweet spot ●     How the best courses take people from one place to another ●     Why Kristen focuses on helping with the hard conversations ●     How to use phraseology that appeals to people and addresses their need ●     Step-by-step actions to build your email list and create effective opt-ins ●     How to create value on the front end of your course by validating your content Today's Sponsor: Online Course SchoolI know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work. Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting started: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course. Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops from Mel and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done. By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course. We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with six members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a part of, please check out my free http://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (A to Z Online Course Guide). The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021.  RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field....

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Staying true to our values is important in the work we do as clinicians. True business success for us is not based solely on the revenue we generate but on many other important aspects, such as working in a way that our genuine gifts and talents show forth in the meaningful and purposeful work that we do. Join us to learn more. Our Featured Guest-Jennifer Kasey, PsyD Jennifer Kasey is a good friend, mentor, and sister in the Christian faith. She and I met way back in 2009 in Nashville, and I’m thrilled that she’s joining us today. She’ll share her perspective on making a slow and intentional transition to full-time private practice. She started as a psychologist at Vanderbilt’s University Counseling Center and then transitioned to a large healthcare system with a small private practice on the side. Over this decade of transitional change, Jennifer has learned many valuable lessons. She will share the logical steps she took in her transition to full-time private practice, the hard moments in the journey, and what she has cherished most about the process. https://www.redirectioncounseling.com/ (Redirection) https://www.redirectioncounseling.com/ (Counseling) You’ll Learn ●     Why the first logical step toward private practice for Jennifer was a whiteboard with color-coded short-term and long-term goals ●     How she took the next steps of applying for her LLC, creating her website, setting up her business account, downloading bookkeeping software, updating her Psychology Today profile, and more ●     A breakdown of Jennifer’s items included on her whiteboard--and why she still looks at it every day in her office ●     How Jennifer’s mindset has changed as she gained confidence and let go of fear ●     How the hard moments in private practice showed her to learn from the NOs ●     How Jennifer learned to stay true to herself, her goals, and values and not live in the “shoulds” ●     How Jennifer finds contentment in being herself and staying with her “true North” ●     Why you can’t follow after someone else’s definition of success ●     What Jennifer cherishes most about building her practice slowly and intentionally: freedom, creativity, and a sense of empowerment Today's Sponsor: Online Course SchoolI know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to share our message with a larger audience or to diversify our income beyond 1:1 work. Speaking from personal experience, I also know that there are a ton of barriers to getting starting: the tech, the mental hurdles, being unsure of whether our course will make money, or even how to market and grow our online course. Online Course School is a live 8-week cohort-based experience where you'll gather with other therapist course creators to create your online course. It includes teaching workshops Mel and the STC team, weekly assignments, and opportunities to work together to get things done. By the end of our time together, you'll have your lessons and modules outlined, know what tech, software, and platform you need to record your online course, a working sales page, and have a concrete growth plan for your online course. We'll be launching our first cohort in Sept 2021 with 6 members. If this sounds like something you'd love to be a part of please check out my free http://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (A to Z Online Course Guide). The guide will help you learn from my mistakes over the past 6+ years of being an online course creator and lessons I've learned from moving the Healthcasters podcasting course from a $297 first sale to over 275 students and passing the $200k revenue mark in 2021/ https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (DOWNLOAD THE ONLINE COURSE GUIDE)...

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In any solo episode, I love to be transparent in sharing the behind-the-scenes processes in the entrepreneurial journey. On social media, we see highlights and the finished product, but we rarely see the struggle and obstacles in getting there. Today’s focus is on confronting and overcoming fear as I go through the process of building a new product. My hope is that this episode will give you encouragement and inspiration to keep going in whatever new endeavors you undertake. You’ll Learn ●     Three ways to combat the voices of doubt and fear: ○     Work on showing the imperfect side of building something vs. just the finished product ■     Learning and growing “in the open” helps others learn from both your failures and successes. (From Show Your Work, see Resources) ■     Bringing what you fear will be judged by others can help dissipate the fear and bring encouragement and support. ○     Realize that the first version of anything will not be the final version. ■     Putting out beta versions during the development process reduces the pressure to “get it perfect.” ■     Getting feedback on beta versions is not an indictment of my expertise. (Use Survey Monkey, see Resources) ○     Create an emotional and brainstorming safety net. ■     Using layers of family, friends, and colleagues will create a support circle for you. ■     Getting emotional, practical, and technical support will vary according to the stages in which you find yourself. Resources: Mentioned in the show: https://www.amazon.com/Show-Your-Work-Austin-Kleon/dp/076117897X (Show Your Work by Austin Kleon) https://www.surveymonkey.com/ (Survey Monkey) Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Headway https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/episode/sellingthecouch.com/headway (Headway): Headway is building a new mental healthcare system by using cutting-edge software to connect clients with therapists who accept insurance, helping providers to expand their practices, and individuals to finally find a therapist they can afford. Solo and group practices in network through Headway can get better rates, get paid automatically twice per month (no more rejected claims or delayed payments), and get complimentary billing and admin support so you can focus on serving your clients. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Solo and group practices out of network through Headway also get full admin support and access to the vast pool of potential clients who need to use their insurance to pay for care. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Learn More at https://sellingthecouch.com/headway (https://sellingthecouch.com/headway) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️...

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If the topic of building your personal brand on social media brings feelings of anxiety and insecurity, then today’s show is for you. As clinicians, we know it makes sense to have a digital footprint in the online world, but it’s difficult to know just how to establish yourself with authenticity and transparency. There are so many nuances to the intimidating world of social media! Today’s conversation will give you valuable insight and practical tips to help people get to know, like, and trust you. Join us to learn more. Our Featured Guest-Lisa Mustard, LMFT Lisa Mustard is a personal brand coach, psychoeducator, therapist, podcaster, and self-described personal development junkie in South Carolina. This mom of two has created an awe-inspiring presence on social media around topics like fitness, health, mindset, and goals. Recording with her phone, Lisa proves that a high-quality, high-dollar studio is not a requirement for building your personal brand, and she does it in very unique and authentic ways. Lisa joins us to talk about what personal branding is, how much to share, and that all-important line between OK and TMI. We’ll wrap up with the most common mistake people make in personal branding and three tips that you can utilize today to start building your personal brand on social media. https://lisamustard.com/ (Lisa Mustard) You’ll Learn ●     What is a personal brand? Your reputation, what people say about you, and what you’re known for ●     The best way to narrow your brand down to three specific things is to identify your top values and priorities ●     Why you have to be clear and specific about how you want to move forward on social media ●     How to decide how much to share online ●     The most common mistake people make is----not taking the time to build a personal brand ●     Three tips for a clinician who wants to build a personal brand: ○     Identify your strengths, uniqueness, and how you help people ○     Know your values and what you stand for ○     Know where you want to go and what you want to accomplish ●     Why you should realize that not everyone will resonate with your message---and that’s OK ●     Why social media is the best place to build your personal brand Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Headway https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/episode/sellingthecouch.com/headway (Headway): Headway is building a new mental healthcare system by using cutting-edge software to connect clients with therapists who accept insurance, helping providers to expand their practices, and individuals to finally find a therapist they can afford. Solo and group practices in network through Headway can get better rates, get paid automatically twice per month (no more rejected claims or delayed payments), and get complimentary billing and admin support so you can focus on serving your clients. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Solo and group practices out of network through Headway also get full admin support and access to the vast pool of potential clients who need to use their insurance to pay for care. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Learn More at https://sellingthecouch.com/headway (https://sellingthecouch.com/headway) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an...

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Today’s show is about a topic that has been a struggle for much of my life and career. I’ve fallen victim to comparing myself to others and feeling like I’m not measuring up. It’s taken a lot of personal work for me to learn to compare in healthy ways that don’t cripple and stifle my creativity and purpose. Are you in the same boat? Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest - Supriya Blair, PsyD Dr. Supriya Blair is a psychologist in Albany, NY. We have connected through the STC community, and I wanted to get her input on the topic of comparing ourselves to others. We’ll start by discussing how comparison comes too easily for many of us and how Supriya noticed this comparison impacting her life until she was able to reframe her perspective. We will consider an all-too-familiar scenario in which a colleague’s success triggers insecurity in our lives, along with helpful tips and resources to navigate the tricky field of comparison to others. http://www.drsupriya.com/ (Dr. Supriya) You’ll Learn ●     Why comparison is so prevalent in the helping professions ●     Three ways we compare ourselves to our colleagues: ○     Seeing someone else’s path and journey as THE template for success ○     Not recognizing my authenticity as a source of empowerment ○     Not allowing for different business models in finding my unique path ●    How to handle the pushback when we launch into our own path ● Navigating the difficult moments when someone else experiences success or achieves the milestone that we want ●     Why the ability to serve is the most important thing ●     Practical help in the area of comparison to others: ○     Brene՛ Brown’s book, https://geni.us/buOy0u (I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn't): Making the Journey from "What Will People Think?" to "I Am Enough") ○     Don Miguel Ruiz’s book, https://geni.us/1ZHXGNt (The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book)) ○     Meditation practice Today's Podcast Sponsor: Headway

Headway: Headway is building a new mental healthcare system by using cutting-edge software to connect clients with therapists who accept insurance, helping providers to expand their practices, and individuals to finally find a therapist they can afford. Solo and group practices in network through Headway can get better rates, get paid automatically twice per month (no more rejected claims or delayed payments), and get complimentary billing and admin support so you can focus on serving your clients. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Solo and group practices out of network through Headway also get full admin support and get access the vast pool of potential clients who need to use their insurance to pay for care. And the best part...Headway is paid by insurance companies, so it’s free for us to use. Learn More at https://sellingthecouch.com/headway (https://sellingthecouch.com/headway) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business) 💻...

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What if I told you that there is something simple and free that most of us can do daily for an hour or less that yields amazing physical and mental benefits? Would you want to know what it is? Since the pandemic has forced us to take a closer look at our habits and make some changes, I want to share this life-changing activity that has become an almost daily habit for me. It’s hiking! Incorporating a midday hike several times each week helps me sleep better at night and stay centered for daily tasks. My inner “research nerd” got curious and took a deeper look at the intersection of hiking, mental health, and entrepreneurship, and I want to share with you what I’ve found. You’ll Learn ●     Why hike? What are the benefits? ○     Hiking helps keep our minds sharp and agile. ○     Hiking helps us to focus better. ○     HIking can spark serious creativity. ●     If you’re a hiker, please share with the STC Community what benefits you’re seeing in your personal and professional life. I’m very interested to hear about your results! Today's Podcast Sponsor: HeadwayShow Sponsor:https://headway.co/ ( Headway) Headway is building a new mental healthcare system that’s rewired for access and affordability through innovative software. Patients are connected with therapists who accept their insurance, and providers can experience yet another way to expand their private practices. Headway helps patients find the therapist that they can afford, and they handle all the administrative paperwork for providers, making Headway the win-win choice for both patients and providers. Find out more about Headway through this link: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/headway (Headway)  https://sellingthecouch.com/selfcare (Mel's Self Care Kit) Also mentioned:  https://geni.us/8WW16 (Successful Aging) by Daniel Levitin RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY...

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Many of us find the concept of networking to be an intimidating endeavor. Even though it’s a vital element of business success, it can feel scary and shady and a little too sales-y. Join us to learn more about what you should be focusing on in your networking relationships. Our Featured Guest Patrick Casale, MA, LCMHC, LCAS Patrick Casale is a clinician in Asheville, NC. He provides coaching for clinicians who are transitioning from a group practice or agency to a solo practice. He’s here to talk about networking in authentic ways. We’ll discuss what authentic networking means to Patrick and how to make your networking relationships count. We will also examine different scenarios that might be a win-loss situation, a win-win situation, and the most common mistakes that happen in the networking space. http://www.casalecoaching.com/ (Casale Coaching)  http://www.resilientmindcounseling.com/ (Resilient Mind Counseling)  You’ll Learn ●     How clinicians aren’t taught to use collaborative communication to support each other’s businesses in reciprocal ways ●     What is networking? Getting to know people as people and learning about their lives and passions ●     Why networking can feel artificial, very “surface level,” and inauthentic ●     Some authentic questions to ask in networking situations include questions about family, passions, how they ended up here, fears of entrepreneurship, etc. ●     How to have reciprocity in relationships by making the other person the priority and supporting them ●     Why you should ask, “How can I help this person be successful? And not, how can this person help me?” ●     Why Patrick says, “A lot of networking opportunities feel like awkward first dates.” ●     Why a win-lose scenario would be talking too much about yourself and not listening actively; a win-win scenario means talking and getting to know each other with connection and trust ●     The most common mistakes in networking: ○     Not having clear strategy and intention ○     Scheduling too many networking events in one day ○     Making networking one-sided in your requests ●     Why your networking strategy should include colleagues who don’t work with the same client population, those who do work with the same , and client groups, and psychiatric providers ●     The best action step for you to take in applying the wisdom of today’s episode

Today's Podcast Sponsor: Online Course School

Online Course School: I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to diversify our income or share our knowledge and serve others on larger levels. But I also know that the thought of launching an online course can be super intimidating whether it's the tech, the fear that no one will buy, or figuring out how to market and scale it in an honest and ethical way. I launched the Healthcasters online course back in 2015 and have learned A TON of lessons from the very first $297 sale to a course that will pass $200k in earnings this year (and currently brings in over $3k/month in recurring income). Online Course School is a live, 6 week experience we're launching in 2022 where we'll spend each week learning and implementing. It's a great chance to work with me and to join with other helpers/healers who are also launching online courses. Seats are going to be extremely limited (just so that I can give you personalized attention), and the cost will be around $997. Please feel free to download the FREE A to Z Online Course Guide if this is something you would LOVE support with, and I'll email you when we're live....

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Today’s show is different from any previous STC episode. I’m doing a live coaching call, a new podcast format for me that is still in the experimental stage. If you’ve thought about starting your own podcast for even five minutes, then your brain has probably been bombarded with many questions. Join us as we discuss tips and advice for those who want to start a podcast. Our Featured Guest Steve Bisson, LMHC Steve Bisson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. He’s written a book, Finding Your Way Through Therapy, and now he’s looking to start a podcast by the same name. Join us for this coaching call, where we cover many relevant topics. We’ll talk about whether to begin with a mission statement or business plan, how far out to record episodes, how to get guests, and more. We also discuss how you can promote your podcast in authentic ways. Join us for this live coaching call session! http://www.stevebissonlmhc.com/ (www.stevebissonlmhc.com)  You’ll Learn ●     Why Steve decided to start a podcast, Finding Your Way Through Therapy, geared to those who want to go into therapy or refresh their energy as therapists ●     Why the following questions and answers are important to consider: ○     Do I need to create a mission statement and business plan or leave things open and fluid? ■     Answer: Start with a plan for the podcast, but hold it loosely and allow evolution and growth. ○     How far in advance should podcast episodes be planned? ■     Answer: Try to plan 4-6 weeks ahead, but plan to take specific months off to take a break and get ahead on interviews. ○     How should I approach diversifying my income through my podcast? ■     Think about how your podcast topics can be monetized, look for ways to build your email list, and find ways to be of service to your audience. ○     How do I promote my podcast other than through a mailing list? ■     Create a podcast launch team from your phone contacts and Facebook friends. ○     How do I maintain the intimate feel to my podcast and keep “letting people in”? ■     Let your “sharing” be guided by what is helpful to others without embarrassing your loved ones. ○     How should I handle music bumpers for my podcast, or is that really important in the beginning? ■     Music adds uniqueness, personality, and flavor to your podcast, so it’s always a beneficial addition. ○     How should I go about lining up guests for my podcast? ■     Start with your local professional referral network, but then ask each guest for their personal suggestions of other relevant guests to contact.  Today's Podcast Sponsor: Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business Free Workshop

Podcasting Workshop: If you enjoyed today's session and have been thinking about launching a podcast for your business, just wanted to pass along the "Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business Workshop." This webinar is 90 minutes, absolutely free, and contains many of the lessons that I've learned from growing the Selling The Couch podcast from 9 downloads back in 2015 to now over 1.1 million. https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingworkshop (LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP HERE) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a

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Today’s show is a special one because we are joined by the first female-identified electrician in the state of Oregon. Breaking into an overwhelmingly male-dominated field, along with other obstacles, gave her the motivation to keep going when faced with roadblocks. Join us to hear more about this fantastic journey.    Our Featured Guest Deb Marinos, MS, CRC, LPC   Deb Marinos has a varied career path with many diversions along the way. As a rehabilitation counselor and current LPC intern, Deb helps clients through her work as a trainer, coach, and counselor. Progressive vision loss has provided her with yet another outlet for her teaching methods and practical experiences to help others achieve their goals and be successful. Her multifaceted journey has given her a wealth of knowledge to share with us.    http://adaptabilityforlife.com/ (Adaptability For Life)   You’ll Learn   ●     How Deb followed in her father’s footsteps into the electrician world, not realizing he would have to file a lawsuit to get her into the program for licensure ●     The mind-boggling fact: Only 2% of electricians in the US are female! ●     How the skills of troubleshooting and puzzle-building in the electrical field carried over into Deb’s many other life endeavors ●     How a vision loss problem led to a significant career change for Deb late in life ●     What it was like to have to give up driving as an independent business owner and busy mom of three teenagers ●     How seeing a counselor helped lay the groundwork for Deb’s work as a counselor, after forays into work as a teacher, business owner, advocate, and EMT ●     How advocacy work for youth internships led to Deb’s advocacy for blindness and vision issues and led her to get her Master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling ●     How Deb describes progressive vision loss and its effect on daily life and tasks ●     What colleagues should consider when affirming and creating an environment for those with progressive vision loss: ○     Ask, “What do I need to know to give you information that is useful to you?” ○     Believe that people can be successful, even with progressive vision loss   *Visit Deb’s website to learn more about her services, free giveaways, classes, and YouTube channel. Today's Podcast Sponsor: Online Course School

Online Course School: I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to diversify our income or share our knowledge and serve others on larger levels. But I also know that the thought of launching an online course can be super intimidating whether it's the tech, the fear that no one will buy, or figuring out how to market and scale it in an honest and ethical way. I launched the Healthcasters online course back in 2015 and have learned A TON of lessons from the very first $297 sale to a course that will pass $200k in earnings this year (and currently brings in over $3k/month in recurring income). Online Course School is a live, 6 week experience we're launching in 2022 where we'll spend each week learning and implementing. It's a great chance to work with me and to join with other helpers/healers who are also launching online courses. Seats are going to be extremely limited (just so that I can give you personalized attention), and the cost will be around $997. Please feel free to download the FREE A to Z Online Course Guide if this is something you would LOVE support with, and I'll email you when we're live. https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (DOWNLOAD THE A TO Z ONLINE COURSE GUIDE) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY

Disclosures: Please note that all...

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It can be a scary thing to truly pursue your calling. Today’s guest has beaten the odds to create brainspotting training specifically for the BIPOC community. He’s finding increased success and receiving positive feedback, so if you’re curious about what it takes to set up a training program, join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest: John Edwards, LCSWJohn Edwards is a therapist in Oakland, CA. In 2019, he went through brainspotting training and experienced a pivotal shift as he saw the need to bring this training to the BIPOC community. We’ll hear about John’s journey in creating a training program from the ground up, how he became interested in brainspotting and became aware of the need within the BIPOC community. John shares his tips and lessons with us in today’s episode. http://www.westcoastpsychotherapy.com/ (West Coast Psychotherapy) You’ll Learn ●     The realization that came to John in a pre-pandemic brainspotting training in March 2019--when he was the only black man out of 120 people ●     The experience that led John to develop trainings exclusively for BIPOC communities ●     What John wishes he had done differently with the very first training (December 2019) ●     Why patience and focus are the two elements necessary for success in building a training program ●     How the BIPOC community responded to John’s training as both facilitators and participants ●     Why John feels a certain hypervigilance when he attends non-BIPOC trainings ●     John’s observations about the differences in a BIPOC training for the participants ●     John’s tips for creating a training program: ○     Be clear about why you’re doing the training ○     Be willing to fall down---and then refocus

Today's Podcast Sponsor: Online Course School

Online Course School: I know that many of us want to launch a successful online course whether it's to diversify our income or share our knowledge and serve others on larger levels. But I also know that the thought of launching an online course can be super intimidating whether it's the tech, the fear that no one will buy, or figuring out how to market and scale it in an honest and ethical way. I launched the Healthcasters online course back in 2015 and have learned A TON of lessons from the very first $297 sale to a course that will pass $200k in earnings this year (and currently brings in over $3k/month in recurring income). Online Course School is a live, 6 week experience we're launching in 2022 where we'll spend each week learning to help you launch and grow a successful online course. It's a great chance to work with me and to join with other helpers/healers who are also launching online courses. Seats are going to be extremely limited (just so that I can give you personalized attention), and the cost will be around $997. Please feel free to download the FREE A to Z Online Course Guide if this is something you would LOVE support with, and I'll email you when we're live. https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (DOWNLOAD THE A TO Z ONLINE COURSE GUIDE) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY

Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These can be watched at a date/time that works for you):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million...

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My guest today is Jason Weiland, who operates his therapy practice in Florida. He is dedicated to helping clients through wilderness retreats and workshops. Jason shares how he has combined his practice and his love of nature in thinking outside the box. His first large-scale wilderness workshop is coming up in June against the beautiful backdrop of the Colorado Rockies. Join us to hear more about this unique offshoot of Jason’s therapy practice! RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? 

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online creator living in Philadelphia, PA. In 2014, I began to think about how to use the therapy skills we learn

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My guest today is Benjamin Reisterer, LPC, in Grand Rapids, MI. He has successfully accomplished something that is a frequent topic of discussion in the STC Facebook community: he designed and created an app. It’s called MetaFi, and it’s a more efficient way for clients to track emotions on a daily basis. He had to think outside the box and take action to see this idea become a reality. We’ll discuss the process he went through and the lessons he’s learned. Join us for more! http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session112 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session112) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? 

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online...

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How are you at thinking outside the box? As private practitioners, that kind of creative thinking is vital, but we know that any journey has its bumps in the road. This episode is perfect for everyone who has thought about creating, marketing and selling a product. What is the process like? How do you take care of all the little details? What about the marketing piece of your product? We’re diving deep into these questions and more on today’s show. My guest is Rosanne Marmor, LCSW, in Portland, Oregon. She created a Feelings Wheel as a way for clients to identify their feelings both inside and outside the therapy room. Rosanne went on a journey that took almost two years of gathering data, development, and production. She was finally able to put this tool in the hands of her clients and has been overwhelmed by its success. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session152 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session152) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide +...

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Welcome to the final episode of 2019! I try to be intentional about the mindful breaks I take to keep myself refreshed and focus on producing quality content for STC. The plan is for the show to return in January with helpful and informative content for you. Today’s episode is a very personal topic of dealing with depression and anxiety, which has been a lifelong struggle for me. I knew that becoming more public with my practice and the podcast would force me to balance the daily pressures of life with my mental health. The past year has been particularly tricky with the premature birth of our daughter, which has brought scheduled feeding times and much sleep deprivation. Let’s talk about this topic and the ways I’ve found to combat depression and anxiety in my life. I hope my tips are helpful to you!  You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session211 (Session212) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course...

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Grief, mourning, and loss---they aren’t topics we usually enjoy discussing, but whether we like it or not, they are processes that we all have to go through at some point in life. For a therapist, how do you build your private practice while dealing with these intense feelings, and what would prompt you to find your niche within this realm? Today’s guest answers these questions and more as we delve into this topic to begin a new season of STC. Nikki Sewell, LCSW, has tackled building a private practice through the loss of a loved one. She and her husband, Andrew, built a private practice together with his psychiatry work and her social work. Shortly after establishing the practice, he had complications following an extensive surgery and passed away unexpectedly. Nikki was only 30 years old when she became a widow and had to endure grief, loss, and the practical steps involved in moving forward. In today’s conversation, Nikki shares candidly about what inspired them to form a joint practice, how she felt the strength and resolve to keep going, and how her vision for the practice has changed. She also shares how her personal experiences with grief and loss have factored into the niche she has chosen for her practice. You can read the full show notes at : http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session169 (Session169) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These can be watched at a date/time that works for you):🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business) 💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)) MY FREE GUIDES:🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

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🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

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Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The...

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Today’s show is a special episode about the changes on both personal and professional levels since the beginning of the pandemic. The field of mental health therapy has been flipped upside-down in many ways, and there have been numerous and unexpected positive outcomes. We can all benefit from collective learning and the sharing of our stories, so let’s listen as twenty of my colleagues answer the following question: How has the pandemic changed you as a business owner? You’ll hear from: ●     Alice Rizzi, PsyD in NY, from http://www.dralicerizzi.com/ (Dr. Alice Rizzi) ○     Alice has learned to value creativity as she’s found her entrepreneurial side and opened a private practice in NYC that focuses on mindfulness. Visit her website for a free mindfulness worksheet. ●     Monet Goldman, LMFT in CA, from http://www.videogamecounseling.com/ (Video Game Counseling) ○     Monet realized that video games could be used therapeutically and deliver therapy interventions effectively. Monet helps gamers and parents live healthier lifestyles and connect socially. ●     Tatyana Kholodkov, psychologist in WY and NC, from http://www.therapymindfully.com/ (Therapy Mindfully) and http://www.theprojectyes.com/ (The Project Yes) ○     Tatyana has realized that you have to learn to say NO. ●     Jill Johnson-Young, LCSW in CA, from http://www.jilljohnsonyoung.com/ (Jill Johnson Young) and http://www.centralcounselingservices.com/ (Central Counseling Services) ○     Jill has learned that her business can be managed remotely and allow her more quality time at home with her family. She has learned that telehealth allows her to reach a bigger audience with her message about grief. ●     Debra Gottschalk, LPC and Art Therapist in CT, from http://www.creatementalwellness.com/ (Create Mental Wellness)  ○     Debra says the pandemic has taught her that there is no time to waste. She launched her private practice to help others heal on their grief journey. ●     Nicole McNelis, LPC in PA, from http://www.nicolemcnelis.com/ (Nicole McNelis) ○     Because of the pandemic, Nicole realized the need to diversify her income streams and provide services to a broader audience. ●     Sovann Pen, LPC in OR, from http://www.sovannpen.com/ (Sovann Pen) ○     Sovann realized that investing in equipment upgrades to make sessions more comfortable is a form of self-care that is helpful for therapists and clients. The pandemic has helped him produce meaningful online content and grow through continuing education. ●     Mary Bicknell, LCSW in OR, from http://www.marybicknell.com/ (Mary Bicknell) ○     Mary recognized that she needed to stop waiting and not live with regret. She’s learned to take action in creating what she wants and helping others develop revenue streams. ●     Lisa Mustard, LMFT in SC, from http://www.lisamustard.com/ (Lisa Mustard) ○     Lisa truly wanted to build a business that can be done virtually from anywhere. She loves not being tied to specific hours at a specific location and serving her community better by making continuing education convenient, affordable, and fun. ●     Irene Summers Temple, Licensed Psychologist in Germany, from http://www.irenestphd.com/ (Irene Summer Temple PhD)  ○     Irene isn’t sure that she ever wants to return to her clinical practice after spending more time with her spouse and children. She doesn’t want to be responsible for others’ mental health but would like to focus more on...

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Today’s topic is very specific, but it’s one that makes a big difference in your private practice and has a meaningful impact on your clients. We are talking about creating an epic welcome video for your practice website. If making a welcome video isn’t part of your website already, don’t miss today’s episode about showing up authentically in ways that connect you to your clients. Our Featured Guest Bryan Nixon, MA, LPC Bryan Nixon is a group practice owner in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His welcome video on his website stands out in my mind as a beautiful and powerful example of what we’re bringing forward in today’s show. Bryan will break down the process of creating such a video, along with things a clinician might overlook when creating such a video. We will wrap up with helpful tips if creating an engaging welcome video is on your to-do list. https://www.mindfulcounselinggr.com/ (Website) You’ll Learn ●     How a video can bring intentionality to your sacred work of therapy in a visual experience ●     How Bryan identified the vibe he wanted to communicate about his practice ●     Why Bryan decided to feature an old, scarred dresser in his welcome video and the symbolism it presents to clients ●     What a client really wants to know about a therapist: Will you see me? Will you hear me? Will you connect with me? ●     Why Bryan felt the importance of “telling the story” through narration for his video ●     Three tips for creating an impactful welcome video: ○     Be willing to do your own work with authenticity before you think about a video ○     Connect to your purpose and your WHY in the world ○     Present your authenticity, but don’t be afraid to show your mistakes ●     Bryan’s continuing ed program, Relationally-Focused Psychodynamic Therapy ●     How restorative healing comes about as a result of the relationship between the client and the therapist Today’s Podcast Sponsor:https://www.tidemarkva.com/ (Tidemark VA Services) provides billing, credentialing, client scheduling, and social media management services to therapists in private practice. The owner, Brittany, is a group practice owner who knows the ins and outs of our field. Learn more about the services that Tidemark provides at https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark (https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark). Additional resources:

Learn about Bryan’s two-year, post-grad program: http://www.theseattleschool.edu/ (The Seattle School)  https://matchframecreative.com/ (Match Frame Creative) (the company that created Bryan's video) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream, 6-Figure Business)) https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)) MY FREE GUIDES: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

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Today’s solo episode is a show I’ve wanted to do, but it’s a vulnerable topic for me. This show highlights a moment of joy because it means I’m listening to my hopes and dreams and not my fears. Our Featured Guest Melvin Varghese, PhD During this last year, I’ve made the decision not to be a therapist in private practice any longer but to dedicate 100% of my time to STC, serving our field and our colleagues in this way. I’ll give you a behind-the-scenes look at this decision, share these big and painful moments in the business journey, and provide encouragement for anyone who is sitting on a dream in fear of moving forward. I’m sharing my professional story, the reasons that led to this decision, and answer questions that you might have for me. You’ll Learn: ●     My story of starting as a pre-med major to be a pediatrician before switching to psychology ●     How I felt that psychology was my life’s calling ●     How I was fascinated with therapists in clinical work in very exciting and unusual fields ●     How I learned valuable lessons about multiple streams of income and seeing my acquired skills applicable in other domains outside the therapy room ●     How I realized that having two businesses was in conflict with my core values about ease and flow in life ●     Five realizations that led to my decision: ○     I learned that managing and growing just one business is really hard. ○     I have clear clarity on my life’s calling, which is serving through STC. ○     I want to keep my ideal schedule. ○     I want to create more margin in my life to enjoy the business journey. ○     I want to do more consulting and coaching. ●     Questions you may have about my psychology license, my future, STC and the podcast, and regrets Today’s Podcast Sponsor

https://www.tidemarkva.com/ (Tidemark VA Services) provides billing, credentialing, client scheduling, and social media management services to therapists in private practice. I especially like that the owner, Brittany, is a group practice owner as well, so she knows the ins and outs of our field. Learn more about the services Tidemark provides athttps://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark. ( )https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark (https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark)https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark. (.)   Be sure to use the code “STC2021” for a 15% discount for the first three months.  RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream, 6-Figure Business)) https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course)) MY FREE GUIDES: https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

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https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers):...

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The fear of being seen is something we all face at one time or another. When we feel called to serve in bigger and better ways, we can’t be afraid to show up authentically. Today’s conversation brings the message that we can’t let fear hold us back. The world needs the good things that we can bring. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Cyndi Doyle, LPC-S, NCC, CDWF, CCISM Cyndi Doyle is a counselor, speaker, and author who had a big vision to work with couples in which one or both partners are in law enforcement. With a partner in law enforcement, Cyndi is familiar with the unique stressors that come to the individual and family from this line of work. She founded Code4Couples, which provides information and training to help law enforcement officers and their spouses remain connected and resilient. She recognizes the role that fear plays when your passion calls you to step into something new and unknown. Cyndi shares with us how she shows up to share her message and overcomes the fears and insecurities that come with being seen. https://www.cyndidoyle.com/home.html (Website) You’ll Learn: ●     How Cyndi uses her gifts and abilities in areas of service ●     How she has learned to honor “BIF,” her big idea fairy in her life and work ●     Why we have to learn to embrace and live with fears to make forward progress ●     How Cyndi pays attention to the signals from her body that come from fear, anxiety, and “head trash” ●     How Cyndi’s Code4Couples idea came about to help other law enforcement couples ●     How Cyndi became more clear about the mission for Code4Couples in 2017---and faced the fear in beginning something new ●     Cyndi’s steps for navigating through fear: ○     Acknowledge the purpose for the pain ○     Accept failure as a part of life ○     Reframe anxiety and fear as elements of your love language Today’s Podcast Sponsor

https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark (Tidemark VA Services) provides billing, credentialing, client scheduling, and social media management services to therapists in private practice. T The owner, Brittany Wagner, is a group practice owner who knows the ins and outs of our field. Learn more about the services that Tidemark provides at https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark (https://sellingthecouch.com/tidemark). Be sure to use the code "STC2021" for a 15% discount for the first 3 months.

Additional resources http://www.code4couples.com/ (Code4Couples) (This is Cyndi's website where she works with law enforcement). Cyndi’s book: https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Line-Protecting-Enforcement-Relationship-ebook/dp/B08TPRTY9G (Hold the Line: The Essential Guide to Protecting Your Law Enforcement Relationship) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration (Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream, 6-Figure Business)) https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

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https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The...

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Today’s show takes on a very niched perspective, but the information and wisdom are useful in many aspects of our work as clinicians and business owners. We are specifically discussing how to move from an online course to a membership model. Maybe you’ve wondered about these components of your practice and how to make the transition. Join us for expert advice! Our Featured Guest Jennifer McGurk, RDN, CDN, CEDRD-S Jennifer McGurk is a registered dietitian in NY whose specialty is helping clients with eating disorders. She made the transition from an online course to a membership model, so she is sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly of such a move. I hope our discussion will be helpful to you if you’re considering a similar transition. https://pursuingprivatepractice.com/theecourse/ (Website) You’ll Learn: ●     How membership sites can help a clinician accomplish career goals ●     Details of Jennifer’s journey in private practice from an online course to a membership model ●     The benefits to therapist and client of a membership model over a one-time course model ●     How imposter syndrome can crop up when creating a membership site ●     How it’s helpful to see others reaching their goals in transitioning from an online course to a membership site ●     Common mistakes in this transition ●     What the business gurus DON’T tell you about your online course as a passive income stream ●     The components of Jennifer’s membership site: Dietitian Business School ●     Jennifer’s advice to a clinician either launching an online course or making the transition to a membership site Today's Podcast Sponsor:

https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (Hushmail) - Hushmail is a safe and secure way to email and send secure forms (e.g., intake packets and consent forms) to potential and current clients. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail) and please let them know Mel sent you =). TRANSCRIPT Melvin: Hi Jennifer, welcome back to Selling the Couch. Jennifer: Hi, Melvin; thank you for having me. I'm so excited to talk to you. Melvin: I really enjoyed our last conversation. I'm so grateful that you reached out, you are doing just so many neat things in the world, so many out of the box things. And I'm just grateful when you reached out and then two, just to hear about the journey and share all the lessons and all those things that you've learned. Jennifer: Yeah, thank you so much. I'm so grateful for your work, too. We were talking before we hit record about how mental health is so needed right now and therapists are doing such an awesome job. So anyone out there listening, thank you for your work too. It's a time where people really need mental health services. Melvin: Yeah, absolutely; I do feel so grateful to be part of this profession. I don't know who could have imagined something like this. But I think one of the things that's really been on my mind, especially through this pandemic, I think it was there before but it's kind of accelerated it is this question of like, what do I want my career to look like? And where do I want to focus my energy? And one of the things that I've kind of realized is, I actually want to eventually just completely pull back on one on one work or if I have to it's kind of more higher-priced and it's very limited. And I think one of the ways that you can do that is through online courses and membership sites. I think there's like a lot of information online about how to do these, all of that kind of stuff. But I wanted to hear from you, because you had an online course, you transitioned into a membership site, you're actually doing it and yeah, I'm just so grateful, I think for

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As a business owner, if you’re baffled by the world of bookkeeping, then today’s show will be helpful to you. Maybe you’re a solo practitioner considering starting a group practice, or perhaps you want to learn more about efficient financial systems and processes. Join us! Our Featured GuestMichael Spencer Michael Spencer has an interesting career background as a CPA who became a licensed clinician in private practice. Recently, she started a bookkeeping practice to serve helpers and healers in the healthcare profession. Michael has a gentle presence that brings comfort and safety, and she brings a unique perspective as a therapist with an accounting background. http://www.mspencerbooks.com/ (Website) You’ll Learn:

●     How Michael transitioned from being a CPA to becoming a LPC, then went on to coaching before starting a bookkeeping business on the side ●     What’s involved in bookkeeping, which means tracking and recording all the financial transactions in a business ●     How to understand your “numbers” and what they mean for your business ●     Three financial tips in considering starting a group practice: ●     Take an honest but gentle assessment of your current bookkeeping system, relationship with finances, and business goals. ●    Have a bookkeeping system and some sort of payroll system or service. ●     Create monthly or weekly bookkeeping rituals to stay up-to-date and reliable. ●     Why bookkeeping will become overwhelming and challenging if you try to “do it all” when you don’t enjoy it ●     The importance of realizing where our strengths and weaknesses are found as business owners ●     The need to develop and expand our business that meets needs and serves the world PODCAST SPONSOR

Hushmail: Hushmail is a secure, HIPAA-compliant way to communicate with clients via email and to fill out clinical forms like intake packets securely. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (sellingthecouch.com/hushmail) and let them know that Mel sent you =). TRANSCRIPTMelvin: Hey, Michael, welcome back to Selling the Couch. Michael: Oh, thank you so much, Melvin. It's great to be here. Melvin: I'm just one grateful for our friendship and two just for the privilege and honor to be able to see the ways that you have both grown as a person and as a business owner. You and I have gotten to know each other through the health casters community, and then through our mastermind community as well. And so I'm just so grateful for you. Michael: Yeah, thank you. And I'm really grateful for you, too. You've been a real constant over the past couple years as I've gone through all sorts of different changes professionally, so I really appreciate you. Melvin: You're so welcome. For folks that don't know you, you are a therapist, but you had a career prior to that. What was that career? Michael: Yeah. So right out of college, I was in accounting and auditing. I was a certified public accountant. My license is currently on inactive status. But I did hold that license from 2001 to 2008; and I did auditing of nonprofit organizations and governments, as well as some small business bookkeeping. Melvin: Nice. And then what happened in 2008? Michael: I guess it was a little bit earlier than that my license was still active and in 2006, 2007, I was just kind of becoming unfulfilled with that work. It wasn't really speaking to my soul and so I decided to go back to school for my Master's in mental health counseling. And I pursued that career, I loved that career, I was a licensed professional counselor and that license right now is also an on inactive status. And so I'm not currently practicing in the field. And what happened there was I was doing a lot of...

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We all want to have entrepreneurial confidence as we run our business. Today’s topic is how we connect our mindset to systems to achieve that confidence. Join us to learn more about translating an entrepreneurial mindset into systems and processes that will boost your profitability. Our Featured GuestKasey Compton, M.Ed, LPCC-S Kasey Compton from https://www.kaseycompton.com/ (KaseyCompton), lives and works in KY, where she has built a very successful, seven-figure group practice. When I thought about a show highlighting systems and processes, I knew Kasey would be the perfect person to cover this topic for us. We’ll discuss the dangerous trap we get stuck in as business owners, thinking that we can only be successful if we do everything ourselves. We’ll also get Kasey’s thoughts on why running your business as a therapist is not the wisest idea. We will break down a system and process that Kasey developed that’s based on the work of Mike Michalowicz and his Healthcare Hierarchy of Needs (HHN). Using this tool will help you target three areas of focus in your practice for profitability and peace of mind. https://www.kaseycompton.com/ (Website) You’ll Learn: ●     Why running your business like a therapist is NOT the best idea ●     Why we lose sight of the goal of our business, which is profitability, when we neglect foundational pieces that are crucial in operating a business ●     How “systems” are defined, and how they are connected to confidence, freedom, and peace in the health of a business ●     The Top Three Indicators of Business Health: leads, profitability, and order ●     How the two levels of leads for group practices, clients and therapists, work to balance prospect-provider attraction ●     How to determine priorities using Michalowicz’s Healthcare Hierarchy of Needs and channel the overwhelm of being a business owner ●     Kasey’s advice for the overwhelmed therapist/business owner ●     Why you should treat the core need of the business and not just the symptom ●     Why your to-do list is probably full of symptoms and not core issues ●     How to combat overwhelm in implementing new systems through a three-step process PODCAST SPONSOR Hushmail: Hushmail is a secure, HIPAA-compliant way to communicate with clients via email and to fill out clinical forms like intake packets securely. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (sellingthecouch.com/hushmail) and let them know that Mel sent you =). Transcript:Melvin: Hey Kasey, welcome to Selling the Couch. Kasey: Thank you for having me. I'm so excited to be here. Melvin: We were talking about this right before we got started, but I feel like we have been in the same like orbit, maybe for the past several years, but we haven't yet connected. And I'm just so grateful. For one, all of the things that you are doing for our profession and just all of the things that you're doing in the world. You're an extremely busy person. And I really am just grateful for our time together. Kasey: Well, thank you so much. I mean, right back at you, I’ve been following some of the things that you've been doing, and I love this podcast. So it's an honor to be here and be a guest. Melvin: When we connected end of 2020 -- thank god 2020 is over by the way, I was thinking a lot about, like what we should talk about, and I felt like one of the most common struggles that a lot of health care providers, mental health providers folks outside of the mental health space have is connecting this idea of like an entrepreneurial mindset. But how do you actually connect that to systems? And how do you implement some of that stuff in your business? And I'm so glad you reached out because you are definitely the...

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Many of us are wondering what our careers are going to look like in 2021 and beyond. We know the therapy model of 2019 as we knew it is not coming back. How do we pivot and move forward? We are answering this question in today’s show. Our Featured Guest Brant Thomsen Brant Thomsen is a therapist in private practice in the twin cities area of MN. He has an interesting life and career because he became a social worker after training at a music school in high-level piano performance. He is now making the move into less therapy and more coaching. Through interesting and unexpected circumstances, Brant was forced to make a quick transition to telehealth during the early days of the 2020 pandemic. He’s here to share what he considered and what he encountered, along with three lessons learned during the transition. Connect with Brant: http://www.onlinepracticebuilder.com/ (Online Practice Builder)   You’ll Learn: ●     How 2020 played out for Brant when he was abruptly quarantined because of a client’s positive exposure ●     How Brant transitioned smoothly to telehealth in 48 hours’ time ●     What it was like to quarantine in his room for two weeks, and why Brant calls it a focused, peaceful, almost monastic experience that brought increased connection with clients and colleagues ●     How Brant’s diverse range of careers helped prepare him mentally for his transition ●     How Brant navigated the struggle to be authentic in his online presence and realize what he can give to others ●     Three life lessons learned in Brant’s transition to online therapy: ●   “I realized how much passion, focus, and readiness I have in supporting other therapists in a coaching role.” ●   “I realized the importance of staying connected to the natural environment around me.” ●    “I realized the lack of permanence in our lives and that what we give each other is temporary.” ●     How Brant is handling the day-to-day stress of the pandemic PODCAST SPONSOR https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (Hushmail): Hushmail is a secure, HIPAA-compliant way to communicate with clients via email and to fill out clinical forms like intake packets securely. Please visit https://sellingthecouch.com/hushmail (sellingthecouch.com/hushmail) and let them know that Mel sent you =).

Transcript:Melvin: Hello, welcome to session 265 of Selling the Couch, I hope that you are having a wonderful day I'm actually recording this at the very tail end of December; December 30. I know how difficult Well, I don't know, the individual stories, but on the collective whole, I know how hard of a year 2020 has been for so many of us. And I know that many of us are ready to make this transition into 2021. So I hope that when this session airs that you are doing well, that you are making this transition and we have more clarity with regard to vaccines and all of those different things. Today’s conversation is with Brant Thomsen from onlinepracticebuilder.com. Brant is actually a therapist in private practice in the Twin Cities in Minnesota. And Brant has a pretty interesting life career. So he's a social worker, but his original major in college was high level like piano performance, and so he actually went to a music school and was going to become a professional musician and then decided to make this transition into social work and has done some pretty amazing stuff throughout his career. But I wanted to have Brant on the podcast, we've been friends for a number of years and Brant decided as for many of us who have made this transition this past year to Telehealth, Brant had a pretty crazy situation, which you'll hear on the podcast about just how real this became. In short, he had to make a really quick...

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Do you love learning new things but struggle to retain the information you’d like to remember for later use? This problem is an ever-present obstacle in my nerdy quest to accumulate knowledge. The good news? I’ve found something that works for me, and I’m sharing it in today’s show. Join me to learn more. This is a solo episode about building a second brain. You may or may not have heard of this concept, but it has revolutionized my life. As I stick to my commitment of setting aside two hours every day to learn new things, I find that I can grow as a business owner, gain knowledge and expertise, become more proficient in offering valuable products and services, and improve my physical and mental health. The problem is that I can’t always remember everything I read, hear, and think. That’s where the magic of the second brain comes in to help. Let’s dive in. You’ll Learn: ●     How note-taking helps me remember things and stay organized ●     How I was introduced to the “second brain concept” through the work of Ali Abdaal, a physician in England ●     The basics of the second brain: Instead of feeling pressure to store accumulated knowledge in my brain, I can store it online in a digital brain ●     How the second brain principles of productivity were developed by world-renowned productivity expert Tiago Forte, who has a free 10-part podcast on the topic (see Resources) ●     Ten Principles in Building a Second Brain: ○     Borrowed creativity ○     The capture habit ○     Idea recycling ○     Projects over categories ○     Slow burns ○     Start with abundance ○     Intermediate packets ○     You only know what you make ○     Make things easier for your future self ○     Keep your ideas moving ●     “The key is not to just consume content, but to personalize and recycle it.” Resources mentioned: http://www.aliabdaal.com/ (Ali Abdaal) http://www.fortelabs.com/ (Forte Labs)  Find the 10-part podcast series on Building a Second Brain at https://fortelabs.co/blog/basbpodcast/ (Forte Labs) Apps and tools recommended by Melvin: For live transcription of Mastermind groups: http://www.otter.ai/ (Otter) For pulling highlights from Kindle books: http://www.readwise.io/ (Readwise)  For capturing snippets of podcasts: http://www.airr.io/ (Airr)  For pulling highlights from blog posts: http://www.instapaper.com/ (Instapaper)  To use a central repository for information: http://www.notion.so/ (Notion) or http://www.evernote.com/ (Evernote) or http://www.roamresearch.com/ (Roam Research.com)   Transcript:Melvin: Hey friends, welcome to session 264 of Selling the Couch, I hope that you are having a wonderful day. So today's episode is a solo one. And I wanted to start this episode by sharing a story or rather a scenario. As you may have figured out based on these podcasts episodes, I’m a little bit of a nerd when it comes to learning new things. And in fact, as Selling the Couch has grown and as I've really worked hard to create a schedule that's conducive to both doing things as well as ample time learning. What I have actually tried to do is set aside two hours each afternoon to simply learn. And these days, I'm learning about podcasting, because, as you know, I'm a podcaster, and the world of podcasting is constantly growing. And so I think a lot about how to grow the STC podcast. I also have a course called Healthcasters, which helps you create and launch a successful podcast. And I'm learning a lot about online courses as well, because Healthcasters is an online course, and I'm...

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Today’s topic is a relevant one for any clinician interested in diversity and multiculturalism. It can be fulfilling and empowering to show up in authentic ways for your clients, especially with today’s increased awareness of diversity and social justice. I hope you’ll join us to learn more. Our Featured GuestDr. Lindsey Brooks Dr. Lindsey Brooks is a licensed psychologist. In these times of racial injustice, many of us wonder how to be a clinician in private practice who shows up in multicultural identities. Lindsey is here to share what she’s learned along the way in her niche of underrepresented achievers. We’ll talk about how Lindsey came upon that niche and how she gathers ideas to speak to that population on her website. She has helpful tips for taking and transcribing voice notes. Lindsey shares what a multicultural practice looks like for her and common mistakes she sees other clinicians make. http://drlindseytherapy.com/ (Website) https://sexual.empowerment.school/ (Sexual Empowerment School) You'll Learn:●     How Lindsey determined to present herself as authentic and genuine with her clients ●     How Lindsey connects with those whom she serves ●     How Lindsey goes “old school” and transcribes voice memos as if she’s having a conversation with a client ●     How Lindsey decided to work with underrepresented achievers ●     How to determine which parts of yourself to hold back in private practice and how much personal detail to share ●     Why Lindsey is intentional about serving a multicultural and diverse community in her practice ●     A practical first step toward a multicultural practice is to have a small group community (For Lindsey, it’s a book club) to learn and grow regarding social justice issues ●     Common mistakes that clinicians make in developing a multicultural practice: ○     Not doing the ongoing work required ○     Not “talking the talk” when opportunities arise to use your voice ●     Lindsey’s sexual empowerment groups for women Transcript:Melvin: Hello, hello, welcome to session 262 of Selling the Couch. I hope you are doing well having a good start to the New Year. I'm actually recording this in late December, two days before Christmas. And yeah, I am doing well given everything I know that vaccines have started to roll out and I'm hoping by the time this episode starts, it becomes live that more of us will be able to get the vaccine; if you would like to get the vaccine, of course. And yeah, just more than anything, just wanted to encourage you to continue to lean on your loved ones, your social support, lean on our side of the couch community as we navigate all of this. Today's podcast session is with Dr. Lindsey Brooks. Lindsey is a licensed psychologist; her website is at drlindseytherapy.com. And we're talking all about developing a multi-cultural niche in private practice. I know that especially given everything that has happened in our country, particularly this year, and definitely in years past, but I think really has been magnified with racial injustice, the continued murders of black men and women and all of those different things. I know that many of us are thinking about what it looks like to be a clinician in private practice, and how do we show up in our multicultural identities, I guess is what I'm trying to say. And so Lindsey is here to share some of the things that she has learned along the way. Her niche is underrepresented achievers. We're going to be talking about how Lindsey came upon that niche, how she gathers ideas, to be able to speak to that population, on her website, and all of those different things, including some really cool tips for like taking voice notes, and...

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Like many of you, I’m looking forward to a different 2021, but I am grateful for what we’ve learned about ourselves, our businesses, and our resilience. Today’s topic is more relevant than ever, as we all want to learn more about improving our private practice website. Join us to learn more! Our Featured Guest Daniel FavaDaniel Fava, from Private Practice Elevation, is my friend and an expert in website design. I trust his insight and advice, and I rely heavily on him for everything website-related. Daniel is here to share what is working for private practice websites post-pandemic. Much of what we think about our private practice websites has shifted greatly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and what used to serve us well may not be working now. As many of us are transitioning to full-time online counseling or at least some increased element of online therapy, Daniel’s advice is relevant and timely. Website ROI Report Website Audit You'll Learn:What has changed about websites and online traffic since the pandemic began Three things that are working well for private practice websites: A professional website is more important than ever. People are searching online, so you need to have a presence there that stands out. Content is the foundation for getting found online. Foundational content includes your home page, service pages, and specialty pages. Online therapy has become an essential part of private practice. Your website audience is now expanded throughout your entire state, instead of just your local vicinity.  How to incorporate non-written content, like videos and podcasts, into your website Why you should take this opportunity to view your website through new eyes

Transcript:Melvin: Hello, welcome to session 262 of Selling the Couch. I hope you are having a good start to the New Year. Man after the fun adventure that was 2020 I am really looking forward to a different 2021. At the same time, I feel like I'm so grateful. As hard as this has been that in some ways that we were able to go through this because I think it's definitely taught all of us just how resilient we are; especially if you have been able to manage a business and during a pandemic, you're pretty legit.

So today's podcast session is with my good friend Daniel Fava from Private Practice Elevation. Daniel is an expert when it comes to website design. It's someone I rely on for both STC and my private practice website. And Daniel is here to share three of the things that are working for private practice websites post-pandemic. I know that how we think about private practice and even how we think about our private practice websites has shifted in the midst of this pandemic.

There are just things that were working in the past that are not working as well now and we've learned a lot of insights and key things in terms of what could work and what will be working going forward. Especially as many of us transition either fully to online counseling or maintain some element of online counseling in our practices. I think there are just a lot of different things there. So we'll get right to today's conversation. Here is my conversation with Daniel Fava from privatepracticeelevation.com.

Hey, Daniel, welcome back to Selling the Couch.

Daniel:

Hey Melvin, how's it going? Thanks so much for having me back.

Melvin:

You're welcome. And Happy New Year, because by the time this releases, it'll be the New Year.

Daniel:

That's right. That's always the interesting and strange part of recording podcasts is the timing bit because we're recording before Christmas, but we're saying Happy New Year.

Melvin:

Yes, absolutely. We have to get it all in our mind.

Daniel:

Yeah.

Melvin:

I'm really excited for our conversation because this pandemic this past year has up ended so many things. Even I think about like just across but especially in the mental health field. Many of us have had to...

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I’m hoping 2021 will be a new year of great experiences and opportunities after what we went through in 2020. Today’s show covers one specific way that clinicians have had to adapt to new ways of doing things because of difficult circumstances. Join us to learn more. Roseann Capanna-Hodge is an integrative and pediatric mental health expert. She’s the founder and director of the Global Institute for Children’s Mental Health and Dr. Roseann and Associates.  Roseann had a simple idea during the pandemic about doing therapeutic activities via Zoom and telehealth sessions. This realization led to her writing the first-ever book on the subject. She’s here to share about her book, its inspiration, and the mental shifts that have become necessary. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session261 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session261) Transcript:  Melvin: Hello, welcome to session 261 of selling the couch; Happy New Year. I hope that you are doing well. It's so good to be back with you. With the way 2020 was I'm really hoping that 2021 would just be a new year, year of new opportunities and new experiences and new podcasts episodes. This is my wish for all of us because I feel like I shared this toward the end of last year in our community. But I felt like one is just how resilient we have all been in the midst of all of what's happened with the pandemic and even as I'm recording this right now we're in mid-November. And here in Philly, we are about to go into a second modified lockdown and trying to navigate all of this and so even I, I'm hoping when this episode releases that we'll just be in a different space, that there will be vaccine ready and that distribution channels and all that stuff will have been figured out and navigated through and all of those different things. Today's podcast session is a special episode. My guest is Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge. Roseann is a integrative and pediatric mental health expert. She's the founder and director of the Global Institute for Children's Mental Health, as well as Dr. Roseann and Associates. Roseann had a simple idea during the midst of this pandemic, which is many of us are doing zoom sessions and using various other online platforms to do telehealth, and how do we do activities in a zoom session? So she did a quick search on Amazon and discovered that there weren't any options out there, and so she decided to create the first ever book on Teletherapy, therapeutic activities, and we're actually talking about the process of creating this book, where her inspiration came from, and some of the mental shifts that Roseann had to really consider and own in the midst of this pandemic. Roseann was actually super busy; as you'll hear on this podcast. She actually wrote four books in the midst of this pandemic, which is just an amazing feat. So we'll get right to today's podcast session. Here's my conversation with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge. Hey, Roseann, welcome to Selling the Couch. Roseann: Well, thank you for having me Melvin. Melvin: I'm so grateful that Christy connected us; shout out to Christy. Roseann: We love Christy. Melvin: We do. We really do love Christy. Selling the Couch would not function and exist without Christy's editing. So thank you Christy, for connecting us and Roseann, I'm really excited for our conversations. You are doing so much in the world and including creating the first ever book on Teletherapy therapeutic activities. You've been busy. Roseann: I have been busy Melvin during what I call my Corona creative period, I wrote four bucks. Melvin: Oh my Gosh! That's crazy. Roseann:  Yeah, and I did a bunch of other things including; getting a podcast of my own, which is how we both know Christy. Melvin: Yeah, absolutely. I wanted to ask you; maybe we can even start there. With this pandemic, I feel like a lot of clinicians when it happened, it was almost like you got sideswiped right? Roseann: Absolutely! Melvin: How in the world...

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Every once in a while, you’ll hear the success story of someone who breaks the mold and goes against the norms. Today’s show highlights the story of a therapist who bucks the trend of everything we normally learn on the podcast and is the direct opposite of what the experts say about building a private practice. Katie Zimmerman, LMFT, practices in Arroyo Grande, CA. She endured some crazy circumstances that led to her leaving one job and having to quickly figure out how to create and open her private practice---in about two weeks! She found office space that was appropriately perfect, established a name for her practice, and got it going with some foundational clients. It may sound impossible, but it speaks to the importance of intentionality and relationships. Katie shares reflections on the reasons for her success, the narratives we struggle with about what we can accomplish, and the importance of certain training modalities. Join us! You can read the full show notes at: Session163 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Balance sheet, profit/loss statements, cash flow, business expense----do these terms send you into a sudden state of anxiety and panic? If so, then this is the perfect show for you! The entire topic of keeping accurate records for your business can be ultra-intimidating for any clinician. Let’s try to make sense of it all together! Greg Higdon is the founder of Grow the Books. He’s here to discuss the biggest bookkeeping blunders that clinicians make and offer solutions that make sense. If looking at your numbers makes you sweat, or if you’ve taken the ostrich approach of hiding your head in the sand, then I hope this episode will make things more manageable and less stressful for you. Join us! You can read the full show notes at: Session180 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show is one that I’ve looked forward to for a long time. We are covering a topic that comes up frequently in the STC community, which is the process of hiring a virtual assistant. I’ve been through this process more than once, and it was a rocky road before finding Nicole three years ago. Hiring a VA teaches you about your strengths, weaknesses, and communication skills. I’ve learned what tasks I can delegate and what help I need for long-term sustainability in my business. Today you’ll meet Nicole Denison, who is my awesome VA. I found her through my colleague, Laura Reagan, who raved about Nicole and her abilities. I’m so thankful to have found Nicole three years ago, and I can honestly say that STC wouldn’t exist as it does today without Nicole’s hard work and dedication. www.sellingthecouch.com/session232 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s episode is a solo session in which I discuss Smart Ways to Repurpose Blog Content. I tried doing a Facebook Live recently on this topic, but there were technical difficulties. I knew it would be a great topic for the STC podcast, so we’re talking about taking existing content and presenting it in different ways. Join me!   You can read the full show notes at www.sellingthecouch.com/session135 Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show is a little different than normal. We’re highlighting the first online marketplace exclusively for mental health professionals to buy and sell their original products. We’re talking to one of the founders of Practikat about her journey--and how this platform might be just what you’re looking for! Katie Englert has a group practice in Paducah, Kentucky, and fills her time with counseling, consulting, and public speaking. Today’s show focuses on her newest endeavor, Practikat, which came about because Katie was looking for a hub of resources for clinicians. She shares how she came up with the name and the branding advice she received from experts and attorneys. Katie explains how to go about setting up something like Practikat, how revenue is generated, how to test it out, and the logistics of the development process. Katie wraps up our time by sharing the advice she would give to herself in the past and the future. You can read the full show notes at: Session196 Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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As clinicians, we often think about creative outlets for our messages of hope and healing. One of those that you might not have considered is creating a conference. It may sound like an overwhelming task, but it’s one that can be effective and fulfilling. Let’s discuss it in today’s show! Mercedes Samudio, LCSW, does a lot of good work around all things related to parenting. She’s written Shame-Proof Parenting and has created The Diversity in Parenting Conference, which explores the diverse ways that clinicians work with parents and families. The conference is coming up soon on September 13-14 in Anaheim, CA. In today’s show, Mercedes takes us behind the scenes to learn what it takes to put together a conference of this magnitude. Mercedes is excited to share with all of us what she’s learned from this first-time experience. She’ll share about the planning process and why she chose a conference as the medium to share her message instead of a webinar. Mercedes also fills us in on how she selected speakers and set fees for the event, along with the biggest lessons she’s learned along the way. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session201 (Session201) Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Have you heard much about “sales funnels”? If you have, the phrase might have conjured up visions of slick and slimy marketing schemes that haven’t left you with a positive feeling. Today’s show is all about building a funnel in an ethical way, along with things to think about regarding using funnels to grow your business--without the slick and slimy schemes. Joel Louis is the founder of Integrator and Co., where he focuses on funnel-building with his clients, helping them to grow their businesses in profound ways. He’s here to break funnels down so we can understand how to use them to attract our ideal customers. We will cover several funnel-related topics, including the essential pieces to building a sales funnel and why an email list is so important in growing your business. You can read the full show notes at: Session208 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Many clinicians think about creating online courses, and some may even feel pressured to take this step. Online courses are sometimes portrayed as the “golden egg” for clinicians and the pinnacle of achievement. While this is certainly a product with much potential, the key is in balancing online courses with the other aspects of your practice while making sure you are motivated by the right reasons. Learn more in today’s show! Miranda Palmer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from ZinniMe.com. She’s a good friend who is very knowledgeable about the transition from clinical work to online courses. Miranda has helped develop three online courses, so we are having an honest conversation about the good, the bad, and the ugly of online courses. It’s easy to get sucked into feeling obligated to create online courses, but there are unique challenges to be faced. We’ll also get Miranda’s perspective on the hazards and roadblocks inherent in this transition. www.sellingthecouch.com/session222   Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show covers an interesting topic that has come up in the STC community. We discuss multiple income streams frequently, but what is the best way to put those in place? Do I need to build my therapy practice before I launch a second income stream? Let’s answer these questions and more with today’s guest. Annie Schuessler lives in the San Francisco Bay area. She’s been in private practice for 20 years, and she’s mentored other therapists for 10 years. She has insights learned along the way in her journey, and she’s here to share those secrets with us. We’ll discuss why it’s important to have additional income streams as a clinician, and Annie shares the three minimum steps to take before launching into other income streams. Join us for more from Annie! www.sellingthecouch.com/session227 Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show wraps up this season of new episodes for 2020. STC will feature replays of our most popular episodes through November and December. I’ll be taking some extra time for self-care and family activities during the holiday months, along with putting together exciting new shows for 2021. This show keeps with that theme of following your heart and finding compassion for yourself. Join us! Tori Press is a writer, artist, and therapy enthusiast. She has an Instagram following of over 250,000 people! Tori is here to discuss her journey from a long career in graphic design to where she is today, along with what it took to give up that career and move forward. Tori explains why her art focuses on cartoons, and we’ll wrap up by discussing how business owners can employ more self-love and self-compassion. www.sellingthecouch.com/session260     Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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This is the follow-up to last week’s podcast about creating a professional livestream. We’ve already covered the gear you’ll need, so today’s show focuses on creating the content for your livestream. Join me for Part 2! If you listened to Episode 258, you might be saying, “OK, Melvin, I have the gear, so what else do I need to do to prep for my livestream?” I’m glad you asked! After only doing livestreams for a few months, I’ve already learned a lot (including some very cool timesaving hacks and helpful tools), and I’m eager to share those experiences with you. www.sellingthecouch.com/session259   Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show is the first of a two-part series about livestreaming. I jumped somewhat hesitantly into this world a few months ago, and surprisingly, I’ve enjoyed this new outlet. Join me as I share what I’ve learned about livestreaming. I was nervous about starting The STC Online Income Stream because I am usually self-conscious on video. I’ve become more comfortable and more familiar with being in front of the camera over these months of livestreaming. My livestream focuses on podcasting and online courses, but I have plans to expand into other content areas. The current format is set for 15-minute talks about growing our impact and income beyond the therapy room, sharing tips and strategies that have proven to be successful. Today’s episode is all about the technical gear needed to set up a livestream, and next week’s Part 2 will focus on livestream content creation. www.sellingthecouch.com/session258     Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

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How can the concept of coworking spaces apply to the world of therapy? Can a coworking space sufficiently meet the needs of clinicians? We’re exploring this topic in today’s show. Join us to learn more. Connor McClenahan is a licensed psychologist in Los Angeles. He had a realization that some of the most successful clinicians were leaving group practices, so he wanted to do things a bit differently. He decided to create a coworking space for therapists where they share the costs by paying a flat fee. Connor shares how he devised this system, how it’s working, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. www.sellingthecouch.com/session257   Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show covers a topic we’ve talked about before, but there are many aspects for a clinician to consider around money. The topic carries many nuances and emotional ties, so we need to have continuing conversations about how we feel and think about money. Michael Spencer is a holistic declutter coach. She has an interesting background in the accounting/auditing space prior to transitioning to a career in the mental health field. Surprisingly, Michael found that she wasn’t very grounded in her thoughts around money, and she’s open and willing to share her experiences with us. Struggling to charge for her worth impacted her creativity and overall work. In today’s show, we’ll break down what Michael was taught about money as she grew up, how these realizations impacted her career, and what she has learned about the deeper work around money. Michael also shares how she’s moving forward in what she’s learned.

http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session256 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session256)

Mentioned in this episode: We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show focuses on the importance of doing our own work in therapy to be effective as business owners and good people in the world. In light of all the difficulties in navigating 2020, this topic has been extremely relevant, and I’ve seen firsthand the value of therapy in my own life. Join us to learn more. Elizabeth (“Biz”) Cush is a good friend who knows the value of doing her own work. She’s a psychotherapist in Annapolis, Maryland, who joins us to talk about how and why she got into therapy and how that has benefitted her as a business owner. She’s also transparent in sharing lessons learned along her journey. www.sellingthecouch.com/session255       Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Wellerz Don't waste money on traditional office space that you pay for no matter how many clients you need to see. Instead, only pay for the actual time you need to see clients with Wellerz. You can schedule the time you need inside the Wellerz scheduling portal and it's easy and cost effective to use! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/sellers (Wellerz)

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With all that’s going on in the world around us, dealing with grief in various forms and degrees has become extremely relevant. Additionally, we all know people who are hurting through the loss of a loved one, so wisdom from an expert is timely and helpful. Besides, it’s always fun to have a good friend on the podcast! Join us! Dr. Sonya Lott is a local psychologist in my hometown of Philadelphia. We met years ago at a meetup group for therapists, and we’ve stayed in touch and become good friends. Sonya has become a valuable part of the STC community as a moderator, and her clinical specialty is complicated grief. She obtained advanced training in complicated grief from the Center for Complicated Grief at Columbia University’s School of Social Work. She’s one of a small but growing group of complicated grief therapists here in the US. Sonya is also the CEO and founder of CEMPSYCH, a continuing education company in multicultural psychology. Many of us want to do more work around grief in this season of COVID-19 and racial injustice because we’ve had powerful realizations around grief. We are talking with Sonya about what complicated grief is, what made her choose this niche, and how she manages and balances a small but diversified caseload with a business mindset. We’ll wrap up with a discussion of why a multicultural orientation is important in grief work. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session254 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session254)

Mentioned in this episode: Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show is an interesting conversation about how unexpected things can happen, even in the world of private practice. You just never know what the future may hold! Laura Vaillancourt previously appeared on STC to discuss her group private practice that focused on the elderly and their caregivers. Since that time, she was approached by a corporate company about selling her practice. It’s something she never imagined, but the offer came at the perfect time for Laura. She’s here today to tell us what happened in this unusual process and what she learned through it all. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session253 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session253)

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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As we enter a new STC season, we are all aware of the challenges for clinicians during the coronavirus pandemic. Many practitioners have pivoted and transitioned into the world of telehealth, which still presents obstacles. Join us to learn more in today’s show. Dr. Adina Silvestri works as an addictions therapist and has a podcast called Atheists in Recovery. The global pandemic presents unique challenges for someone in addiction recovery. Adina saw a golden opportunity to serve her audience while continuing to grow her business. In today’s show, we are discussing her growth journey during this time, along with topics related to the pandemic, such as conquering fears and serving others. Adina shares how she generates content for her podcast and provides resources and support while expanding her professional network and referral network. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session252 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session252)

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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How do you succeed in marketing your practice when you tend toward introversion? So many clinicians are not extroverts and don’t feel comfortable with the traditional networking that is required in marketing. There are challenges to face, and fortunately, there are non-traditional forms of marketing that can be done. This show will give you some valuable information and practical insights about marketing for non-extroverts. Patricia Young, LCSW, is based in California, but also offers teletherapy sessions for her clients. Her practice focuses on helping HSP’s (highly sensitive people) experience more ease and peace and thrive with less overwhelm and fatigue. In today’s show, Patricia discusses marketing and the fears around it, along with how we can honor who we really are and still present our business in authentic ways. She shares with us three non-traditional marketing methods that have worked well for her that might be just what you’re looking for! You can read the full show notes at : http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session171 (Session171) Mentioned in this episode: Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a millionaire? Most of us have probably spent some time dreaming about how we would use that kind of wealth, but you might be surprised to learn that millionaires don’t live and spend the way we think they do. The show will take a short break for the month of April. This is because I like to practice what I preach about self-care; to stay at my optimal health, I’ll take this break and then return with more shows in May. Today’s show centers around topics presented in a book I read recently, The Millionaire Next Door: The Surprising Secrets of America’s Wealthy, by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko. Let’s dive into the best takeaways from this book! http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session155 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session155) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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With the growth of the telemedicine industry in recent years, have you considered using this technology in your private practice? If your curiosity is piqued, then you might wonder about the differences in marketing online counseling vs. a traditional private practice. Join us to learn more about this intriguing concept. Shelly Smith, LMFT, shares a private practice with her business partner, Jennifer. They have ventured into online counseling with their practice, United Counseling Wellness, based in Minneapolis and Milwaukee. Shelly will share what she has learned in this endeavor and how the therapy field is changing. She will also answer a few listener questions about online counseling, liabilities, and client screening. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session172 (Session172) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Where do your ideal clients hang out? Who are the people and organizations that are serving them? These are questions you should answer as you consider narrowing your focus and attracting your ideal clients. Today’s show dives into the practical steps you can take to accomplish these important goals. Keri Nola is a dear friend who has been on the show before. Keri has branched out of her psychotherapy background to mentor, awaken, and support healers of all kinds through her newly established practice in San Diego. She has a lot of answers to the questions we might ask about attracting ideal clients. She explains why it’s best to focus on the ideal client, how to find those ideal clients, and why those ideal clients need the services you offer.

This will be the final episode of 2018, as I take some time to focus on my new responsibility as a father and enjoy the holidays with my family. I hope you’ll plan to join us for more great conversations in 2019!

You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session177 (Session177) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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In this last episode before the usual August break for STC, I wanted to highlight my colleagues and valued listeners. So much knowledge and wisdom have been shared in these first few years of the podcast, and today’s show includes clips from other clinicians sharing what they have learned and how they have implemented those lessons into their practice. I’ll wrap up the compilation with my top personal takeaways. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session251 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session251)

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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The pandemic and months of quarantine have many of us relying more than ever on video. We use video for meetings, live sessions, live-streaming, and other content, so it’s important to have the best quality possible. Join us to learn more. Michael Rothermel is my videographer who filmed the welcome video for STC back in 2017. We were part of the same faith community while Michael lived in the Philly area, and I can’t believe I haven’t had him on the show until now. He’ll share his top tips to improve the quality of live videos.

http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session250 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session250)

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show is a special episode as we celebrate STC hitting the ONE MILLION downloads’ milestone. When I started the podcast, I thought one million downloads was a reasonable 20-year-goal, but here we are, just five years along in the journey. To mark this occasion, I’m going solo today with advice to the younger me, or what I wish I had known five years ago. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session249 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session249) RESOURCES TO GUIDE YOUR BUSINESS JOURNEY Disclosures: Please note that all opinions are my own and based on my personal experience. Sponsors are acknowledged. Some links in the description are affiliate links where if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I use these funds to continue to create helpful content to serve our field. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

MY FREE ONLINE WORKSHOPS (These Can Be Watched At A Date/Time That Works For You):

🎙️ Using Podcasting To Grow Your Business (Lessons Learned From 9 Downloads On Day 1 To 1.2 Million And a 7 Income Stream Business)

💻 https://sellingthecouch.easywebinar.live/registration-3 (How To Launch And Grow A Successful Online Course (Lessons Learned From A $297 First Sale To $150k Online Course))

MY FREE GUIDES:

🎤 https://sellingthecouch.com/podcastingguide (Start your Podcast: The QuickStart Guide) 🖥️ https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (The A To Z Online Course)

MY COURSES:

🎧 https://sellingthecouch.com/jointhehealthcasters (The Healthcasters) (A podcasting course + community for helpers/healers): 💻 https://sellingthecouch.com/onlinecourseguide (Online Course School) (A course to create, sell, and grow a successful online course): COMING IN 2022 (please feel free to download the online guide course above and I can keep you updated as I'm trying to build this with ample input and care including a chance to work 1 on 1 with me!): 

MY FAVORITE SOFTWARE:

🧳 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/captivate (My Podcast Hosting Platform) (Captivate-Includes 7 Day Free Trial): 🚀 https://www.sellingthecouch.com/kartra (My All In One Online Business Platform) (Kartra-Includes 14 Day Free Trial): 🤖 https://sellingthecouch.com/easywebinar (What I Use For Evergreen Webinars) (Easy Webinar) 🌐 My Website Host (SiteGround-Includes Discount) 🎨 My WebSite Theme (Divi)

MY FAVORITE GEAR:

❤️ https://youtu.be/iYBrAhrdVDY (STC Home Office Tour! ) 📔 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-online-counseling-coaching-kit (My Online Counseling + Coaching Gear) 🎥 https://kit.co/mvarghese/my-live-streaming-kit (My YouTube + Live Streaming Camera Gear)

SUBSCRIBE TO THE STC PODCAST:

Since 2015, I've hosted a weekly podcast where I interview successful therapists in private practice and other business owners to help us grow our impact + income in and beyond the therapy room. The podcast has been downloaded over 1.2 million times and is heard in over 140 countries. You can find also it by searching “Selling The Couch” on any podcast app (eg: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify etc) or simply saying "Alexa, listen to Selling The Couch" on your Amazon device. = Or simply click below for ease =). https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/listen (SUBSCRIBE HERE)

LET'S BE FRIENDS:

💌 https://my.captivate.fm/sellingthecouch.com/newsletter (Sign up to receive the free A To Z Online Course Guide + receive the weekly STC email newsletter) (trusted by over 7k colleagues) 🌍 https://www.sellingthecouch.com (My website / blog) 📸 https://www.instagram.com/melvinvarghesephd/ (Instagram) (I mainly post "behind the scenes" stuff about my life and business)

WHO'S THIS GUY? 

Hi. I'm Melvin. I'm a psychologist (PhD), entrepreneur, and online creator living in Philadelphia, PA. In 2014, I began to think about how to use the therapy skills we learn

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As rewarding as it is to start your own podcast and share your knowledge and expertise with the world, there is one thing that makes it even better--and that’s monetizing your podcast. Wouldn’t it be a dream come true to make money from your podcast? You might think it’s the impossible dream, but today’s show brings practical information and simple tips for monetization that can expand your reach, extend the life of your podcast, and free up more of your time for quality content creation. Christy Haussler is the founder of Team Podcast, a full-service podcast editing and production company. She’s been my podcast editor since 2015, when I realized I needed help with podcast editing. Christy and her team work behind the scenes to produce, edit, and upload podcasts, and they are the main reason the STC podcast goes out each week. Christy began her podcast editing service around the same time as STC, and her team currently edits about 60 different podcasts and about 300 episodes each month. Christy has a unique and interesting perspective on what people are doing to create income through podcasting, and she’s here to share those insights with us.

http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session248 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session248)

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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July is an exciting month because STC will hit one million downloads! It’s something I could never have imagined during these first few years. As STC has grown, we’ve added new team members and made significant changes. One of the biggest changes to date is happening now, and we’re taking a closer look in today’s show. Nicole Denison has been my virtual assistant for the past three years. You may remember that she joined us in Episode 232 to talk about the benefits of having a VA. Nicole is back to discuss the changes taking place as we move all of our STC content into an all-in-one platform. Maybe a move like this is something you’ve considered because it’s tough to manage different content on several pieces of software at once. We began this journey about two months ago, so Nicole and I will share why we are making this transition, why we are excited about this new step for STC, and how this move fits into our dreams for the future. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at STC!

http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session247 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session247) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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During times like these, it’s essential to think outside the box, but every decision has business and financial implications. One way to survive the pandemic shutdown is to pull back from one-on-one work and create income streams that aren’t dependent on being there in person. If you’re curious to know more, then join us for this episode. Jackie Flynn teaches therapists how to integrate EMDR Therapy and Play Therapy techniques, and she is launching a membership site this year. In this episode, Jackie and I will discuss what I’ve learned through my experiences, and we’ll brainstorm the process of launching a membership site. Jackie talks about her struggles regarding creating content and how to best release it, and we’ll discuss how to handle testimonials legally and ethically. This conversation takes a deep dive, and we have lots of helpful information to share. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session246 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session246)

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) We'd like to thank our Sponsor, zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Since STC usually focuses on aspects of the journey into private practice, today’s show is different. We are talking to someone who decided to take her skill set in another direction and move away from private practice. A traditional talk-therapy practice isn’t for everyone, and there are other therapeutic healing modalities that can be fulfilling and meaningful. Join us to learn more! Hayley Hansen is a body-centered healer based in Phoenix, Arizona. She was a Licensed Professional Counselor who became fascinated with bodywork healing methods through yoga; Hayley decided to give up her LPC license to pursue her calling. She shares her journey with us and what she’s learned along the way, including the early indicators that a traditional talk therapy practice just wasn’t the right fit for her. We will also discuss how she worked through internal and external struggles and decided to focus on bodywork healing methods. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session245 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session245)

Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Today’s show is different from the regular topics of business and entrepreneurship, and it may be one of the most important issues of all. Join us to learn some golden nuggets to help you in your relationships. Roger Nygard is best known for his highly acclaimed and successful documentary called Trekkies. Today’s conversation is focused on Roger’s latest documentary, The Truth About Marriage. He wanted to figure out what makes happy relationships, so he started out by reading a lot of books on the topic. Roger didn’t stop there because he went on to interview many of the world’s leading relationship experts about the insights they have learned. No matter our circumstances, we are all in relationships of various kinds, whether a romantic relationship, friendships, business relationships, etc. Roger is here to share what he’s learned about connection, expectations, conflict, and more. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session244 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session244)

Mentioned in this episode: Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor is Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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We are tackling another topic relevant to the pandemic crisis. This particular time is a good chance to think about private practice in different ways than ever before. If you’ve ever considered blogging as a way to build your practice and expand your reach to your ideal clients, then this is the show for you. Lauren Hahn is a licensed mental health counselor in Orlando, Florida. She has built a successful private practice through blogging. In this episode, Lauran shares the process that she’s gone through for the past several years in starting her blog and evolving that blog to cater to her ideal clients. She explains where she finds inspiration and content for her posts that are now released regularly each week. We wrap up the conversation by discussing the most important lessons she’s learned along the way. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session243 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session243)   Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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The concept of using telemedicine for mental health clinicians has become very relevant due to the coronavirus pandemic. Unfortunately, meeting clients this way is something that is not just temporary; clinicians need to make this transition and set themselves up for successful telemedicine for the future. Roy Huggins has been at the forefront of telemedicine and how to do it ethically. In today’s show, he’ll share practical measures to take, like setting up your computer and tablet. He’ll also share tips around the expectations of telemedicine mental health and how to reframe those expectations for our new normal. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session242 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session242) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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As clinicians, we occupy a unique role as we hold space for the grief of our clients while still navigating our own grief and disappointment in a time like this pandemic crisis. These times make us think differently about how we serve our clients, which makes today’s show about text-based therapy very relevant. Can it be used in an ethical and effective way? Bill Hudenko is a professor at Dartmouth College in the Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences. He also teaches at Dartmouth’s School of Medicine and is the CEO of Trusst Health, a company that developed an app called Trusst. The app came about as the result of research Bill conducted at Dartmouth about the efficacy of text-based therapy and whether it can work well for certain populations. Our conversation brings fascinating knowledge and insight as we cover a range of topics. Bill explains his research, how the Trusst app works, and what the benefits are to using this medium.

http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session241 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session241)

Mentioned in this episode: Thanks to our Sponsor, Zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme) Today's Sponsor: zynnyme When you open a private practice you become an entrepreneur- but that doesn't mean you magically know how to run a successful, sustainable solo or group practice and still enjoy life. And the truth is, when your business isn't working properly it WILL impact your joy, energy, and your clinical outcomes. Therapists are among the world's paid master's degrees and it is time for it to stop. Kelly & Miranda at zynnyme are two therapists who care deeply about ensuring therapists can have sustainable incomes and practices that get exemplary outcomes. Check out their free Private Practice Masterclass where they'll be diving into the core issues that keep even full practice owners from being truly profitable and protected from burnout. While you are at it, get on the waitlist for their Business School for Therapists-your one-stop-shop for growing, revamping, or launching your sustainable, impactful solo or group practice. Business School for Therapists has the perfect blend of personalized support, ready to go content when you need it, and an amazing community all over the world.

https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/zynnyme (zynnyme)

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Even though today’s topic is very specific, it’s one that applies to many clinicians. We are discussing the unique situation of restarting a private practice after a military deployment. We include many helpful tips if you find yourself in that situation, or if your niche involves working with the military population. Chad Welch has a private practice outside St. Louis. He has an amazing story of deployment to the Middle East until July of last year and then restarting his private practice just one month later. We take a deep dive into his mindset about the valuable lessons he’s learned during his military service, as well as the special nuances to working with members of the military. Chad shares how he serves the military community with his practice regarding marketing, referrals, additional training, and the huge need that exists in this population. www.sellingthecouch.com/session240

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Today’s show is about search engine optimization (SEO), an essential aspect of your private practice website. The truth is that you can have the most beautifully designed website on the planet, but it won’t help your practice if it doesn’t attract people. If you’re confused about trying to navigate the world of SEO, then this is the show you don’t want to miss! Dr. Maelisa Hall is a licensed psychologist and digital marketing expert. She’s here to break down the intimidating world of SEO with language that’s easy to understand. She covers her three foundational tips and the things we need to do to beef up our website content to make sure our website has what it takes to attract those ideal clients. www.sellingthecouch.com/session239

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It’s a challenge to open up and be vulnerable about what you’ve learned along your journey. Often, it’s that authenticity that is most effective in helping others learn from what YOU have learned. Today’s guest is an example of openness and vulnerability. Katie Leikam, LCSW, has a private practice in Decatur, GA. She is sharing with transparency about how she went from zero clients after the first four months to a thriving $100,000 practice. There is wisdom to be found in Katie’s experience, in the difficulties of building a business and the struggle to get the results you want. Katie opens up today about why and how she opened her private practice--even to zero clients, what she learned, and how she maintained a positive mindset. She also talks about the unique marketing strategies she has used to build relationships along the path to building her practice. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session184 (Session184)

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Welcome to a solo episode about a very important topic: Focusing on Your ONE Thing. This episode is an outgrowth of one of my personal goals for 2017, which is to read one business-related book per month. I’ve already read a book that has impacted me greatly and changed the way I approach my business. The book is The One Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth Behind Extraordinary Results by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan. The book hones in on the principle that successful businesses with innovative products and services focus on one project at a time, instead of going in many different directions at once. Learn how these principles can positively impact your business. Join me!   You can read the full show notes at www.sellingthecouch.com/session108

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This episode features . . . .you! Nineteen of our listeners took the time to record their tips for getting referrals, which just happens to be the most-asked question for clinicians. This episode is bittersweet for me because it’s the last one of this season. I’m taking some time off to focus on being a husband and daddy and to take some much-needed time for self-care. But before I say goodbye, for now, let’s listen to these great ideas for getting those coveted referrals! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session190 (Session190)

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Today’s topic is one that puzzles many clinicians and leaves us feeling uncomfortable. We’ve approached setting fees on past episodes, but today we are diving deeper into setting fees that ensure our profitability. How do we make sure our business is growing, thriving, and allowing for future expansion? Join us as we learn more with today’s guest. Reina Lombardi is an art therapist based in Florida. She has a wealth of experience and knowledge about debt, building a business, and setting fees. Reina understands the many challenges in owning a private practice, and she knows that we need to be profitable. I hope our conversation gives you a practical perspective on using objective data, and not emotions, to figure out where your numbers should be.

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Today’s show is about something a bit different, even though we’re in the middle of the coronavirus crisis. I’ve learned that we should have a virtual aspect of our business in place for scenarios like this. I’ve also learned how important diverse income streams can be when your regular practice is interrupted. I can’t maintain my business health if I rely solely on my clients. Five years ago, I launched my first online course, so now I’m sharing lessons learned over that time, especially about gear. Remember, though, that gear should help you achieve your goals and not just be another way to spend money. www.sellingthecouch.com/session233

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Today’s show is one that I’ve looked forward to for a long time. We are covering a topic that comes up frequently in the STC community, which is the process of hiring a virtual assistant. I’ve been through this process more than once, and it was a rocky road before finding Nicole three years ago. Hiring a VA teaches you about your strengths, weaknesses, and communication skills. I’ve learned what tasks I can delegate and what help I need for long-term sustainability in my business. Today you’ll meet Nicole Denison, who is my awesome VA. I found her through my colleague, Laura Reagan, who raved about Nicole and her abilities. I’m so thankful to have found Nicole three years ago, and I can honestly say that STC wouldn’t exist as it does today without Nicole’s hard work and dedication. www.sellingthecouch.com/session232

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Today’s show is about a topic I’ve wanted to cover for a while. It’s about something many of us might have wanted to do in our practices. We are talking about retreats and mini-retreats, and I have the perfect person to fill us in on the details. Mikella Millen is an art therapist in NYC. She has taken a great idea and made it reality by creating retreats focused on self-care for clinicians. She’s sharing with us how she developed this idea and validated the fact that people would want to sign up. We’ll talk about what went well and what didn’t go well, along with Mikella’s lessons learned along the way. www.sellingthecouch.com/session231

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Today’s topic is a new one in the STC community. Have you ever thought about renting or subleasing extra office space? Whether you might be a prospective owner or renter, today’s show has great wisdom about how that extra office space can be put to good use in serving other clinicians and your community. Elena Clemente has a practice in North Tampa. She has learned many lessons through renting out parts of her four-person office suite. In today’s show, Elena shares how she found this office space and what kinds of contracts she uses with colleagues who are interested in leasing the space. She’ll also share lessons learned along the way, specifically about features of the office and managing busy schedules. If you’ve thought about sharing office space in this way, then this podcast might be helpful for you. A Special Thank You to Today's Sponsor: To check out the brand new FREE 4 Part Masterclass offered for therapists by ZynnyMe, go to http://sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme (sellingthecouch.com/zynnyme) www.sellingthecouch.com/session230

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As STC has grown, I’ve been wanting to address this topic of getting on other podcasts as a guest. In a typical week, I receive several requests from people wanting to be a guest on STC.  There are several reasons why I cannot accept every one of those requests, and there are things to consider in remaining authentic while seeking podcast appearances. In this solo episode, we discuss some tips to follow if you want to increase your exposure by appearing on podcasts. www.sellingthecouch.com/session229

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Today’s conversation focuses on an interesting topic. We’ve often discussed the nuances of a private pay practice, but today we are going deeper. Is it possible to build a successful private pay group practice in an area where most other clinicians take insurance? Join us as we explore this question together. Deborah Duley has a practice in Maryland, which she manages remotely from her new home in Atlanta. Deborah has learned a lot along the journey in which she began as a solo practitioner in a private pay practice in 2013. She then went to a group practice where she niched down to work with women and girls. Deborah shares some of the mistakes made and lessons learned, her biggest fear in the transition from solo to group practice, and whether certain niches are better suited for private pay. She tells us how she focuses on self-care to combat the unique stressors of being a group practice owner. www.sellingthecouch.com/session228

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Today’s show covers an interesting topic that has come up in the STC community. We discuss multiple income streams frequently, but what is the best way to put those in place? Do I need to build my therapy practice before I launch a second income stream? Let’s answer these questions and more with today’s guest. Annie Schuessler lives in the San Francisco Bay area. She’s been in private practice for 20 years, and she’s mentored other therapists for 10 years. She has insights learned along the way in her journey, and she’s here to share those secrets with us. We’ll discuss why it’s important to have additional income streams as a clinician, and Annie shares the three minimum steps to take before launching into other income streams. Join us for more from Annie! www.sellingthecouch.com/session227

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Today’s topic is one that puzzles many clinicians and leaves us feeling uncomfortable. We’ve approached setting fees on past episodes, but today we are diving deeper into setting fees that ensure our profitability. How do we make sure our business is growing, thriving, and allowing for future expansion? Join us as we learn more with today’s guest. Reina Lombardi is an art therapist based in Florida. She has a wealth of experience and knowledge about debt, building a business, and setting fees. Reina understands the many challenges in owning a private practice, and she knows that we need to be profitable. I hope our conversation gives you a practical perspective on using objective data, and not emotions, to figure out where your numbers should be. www.sellingthecouch.com/session226

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Welcome to a solo episode! I wanted to take this opportunity to discuss how I’ve revamped my private practice website. The process has been very intentional for me, and I’ve enlisted the help of several other people. Maybe you are considering changes to your website, but you aren’t sure where to begin. I hope today’s “inside look” at a private practice website is helpful to you. www.sellingthecouch.com/session225

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Have you felt the pull of private practice? Maybe you’ve considered taking the leap into private practice, but are hesitant about the first steps to take. Today’s show takes an authentic look at the big picture, along with basic procedures to get you started. Our guest shares how she followed her intuition and took the risk that comes with starting a business. Montoyia McGowan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Memphis, Tennessee area. She and I have connected online for about four years, since the early days of the STC community. Montoyia left a job she loved at the VA to go into private practice, and she celebrates four years in that practice this year. We are discussing what made her start her private practice, how she honed in on a niche, and how she networked and found referral sources. We’ll wrap up with an honest analysis of what has gone well for Montoyia and what she wishes she had done differently. I hope you enjoy this action-packed episode with many pearls of wisdom and insights. www.sellingthecouch.com/session224

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With today’s technology, most people rely on online reviews when it comes to products, services, restaurants, hotels, and much more. When it comes to clinicians and clients, online reviews can reveal a lot, but is that a good thing? Do people mainly leave online reviews when they are upset or dissatisfied with the service they have received? Join us for a deeper look at this issue on today’s show. Dr. Keely Kolmes is a Licensed Psychologist in California. They did research via anonymous surveys about the experience of therapy clients who had accessed personal or professional information about therapists. We’re taking a close look at the results of the survey, how these results are interpreted, and how these results can help improve your private practice. http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session223 (www.sellingthecouch.com/session223)

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Many clinicians think about creating online courses, and some may even feel pressured to take this step. Online courses are sometimes portrayed as the “golden egg” for clinicians and the pinnacle of achievement. While this is certainly a product with much potential, the key is in balancing online courses with the other aspects of your practice while making sure you are motivated by the right reasons. Learn more in today’s show! Miranda Palmer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from ZinniMe.com. She’s a good friend who is very knowledgeable about the transition from clinical work to online courses. Miranda has helped develop three online courses, so we are having an honest conversation about the good, the bad, and the ugly of online courses. It’s easy to get sucked into feeling obligated to create online courses, but there are unique challenges to be faced. We’ll also get Miranda’s perspective on the hazards and roadblocks inherent in this transition. www.sellingthecouch.com/session222

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Welcome to the first episode of 2020! It’s been nice to have some extra time for rest and family time around the holidays, but now I’m ready to get going again with wonderful guests and helpful episodes as we step into a new year. Curt Widhalm, LMFT, is a friend based in Los Angeles. He works with high-achieving teens in his practice. I wanted Curt to share how he chose this niche and what he’s learned along the way. It’s also cool that Curt is a marathon runner who ran competitively in high school and now works as a trainer with US Track & Field. In this conversation with Curt, we talk about the power of sub-niching within a niche, lessons learned by Curt along the way, and how he discusses his $225/hr fees with parents. www.sellingthecouch.com/session221

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Do you “have it all together” when it comes to your business finances? My hat’s off to you if you do, but for most of us, the painful truth is that any business journey comes with its own set of challenges and lessons, some of which must be learned the hard way. Like many of you, I like to pretend that I have it all together, but today’s show is all about transparency and baring it all---the good, the bad, and the ugly. Every few weeks I like to a solo session to share with you what I’m learning along with my business journey because I believe my experiences--the good AND the bad--can help others. I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t, and I’m willing to share those lessons with you with humility. Let’s talk about the money pitfalls that come with business success. www.sellingthecouch.com/session220

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Today’s guest is Debra Roberts, LCSW, who is in private practice specializing in relationship therapy. Our topic today is one that many clinicians have probably pondered at one time or another. We’re discussing how to take our clinical expertise and turn it into some kind of digital product that extends far beyond the therapy room. Over 20+ years in private practice, Debra realized that she was having success with her clients and finally mustered the courage to write a book that has since branched into a course, training, webinars and more. Debra shares her journey, what she’s learned about her strengths, and some practical aspects to consider about creating a webinar. Join us! www.sellingthecouch.com/session219

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When you’ve talked with as many people as I have, you tend to learn a lot of lessons and gain great insights into what it takes to build a successful private practice. Today’s show is a solo episode inspired by a presentation I did recently. We are focusing on three lessons I’ve learned, along with key takeaways and the biggest mistake for each lesson. www.sellingthecouch.com/session218

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Welcome to this solo episode! I’m talking today about all the things I thought I knew about podcasting that turned out NOT to be true. I want to help you avoid these mistakes if you’re considering embarking on your own podcasting journey. My podcasting journey spans almost 2-1/2 years now, which is still hard for me to believe. So, here we go; let’s jump right into Five Podcasting Myths and How to Avoid Them. www.sellingthecouch.com/session217

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Welcome! Can you build a private pay counseling private practice in this day and age? That is the question that therapist and business coach Keri Nola and I explore in Session 4 of the Selling the Couch podcast.    www.sellingthecouch.com/session216

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Today’s guest is Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, a psychologist in private practice in Decatur, GA. She is the creator of the website, blog, and podcast, Therapy for Black Girls. Her practice mainly focuses on African-American women who have gone through breakups. Dr. Joy and I are discussing how she has built this therapy and brand, and how she developed it while staying authentic and true to herself and her calling. www.sellingthecouch.com/session215

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Where do your ideal clients hang out? Who are the people and organizations that are serving them? These are questions you should answer as you consider narrowing your focus and attracting your ideal clients. Today’s show dives into the practical steps you can take to accomplish these important goals. Keri Nola is a dear friend who has been on the show before. Keri has branched out of her psychotherapy background to mentor, awaken, and support healers of all kinds through her newly established practice in San Diego. She has a lot of answers to the questions we might ask about attracting ideal clients. She explains why it’s best to focus on the ideal client, how to find those ideal clients, and why those ideal clients need the services you offer. This will be the final episode of 2018, as I take some time to focus on my new responsibility as a father and enjoy the holidays with my family. I hope you’ll plan to join us for more great conversations in 2019! You can read the full show notes at www.sellingthecouch.com/session214

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Today’s podcast is a solo episode about My Struggle with Chasing the Shiny Objects in Business. I’ve experienced this struggle as I’ve built STC and gone through the challenges of entrepreneurship. My desire is to encourage all of you by being transparent about this issue. You can read the full show notes at www.sellingthecouch.com/session213

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Welcome to the final episode of 2019! I try to be intentional about the mindful breaks I take to keep myself refreshed and focus on producing quality content for STC. The plan is for the show to return in January with helpful and informative content for you. Today’s episode is a very personal topic of dealing with depression and anxiety, which has been a lifelong struggle for me. I knew that becoming more public with my practice and the podcast would force me to balance the daily pressures of life with my mental health. The past year has been particularly tricky with the premature birth of our daughter, which has brought scheduled feeding times and much sleep deprivation. Let’s talk about this topic and the ways I’ve found to combat depression and anxiety in my life. I hope my tips are helpful to you!  You can read the full show notes at: Session212

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Today’s topic is a new one for the podcast. We’ve never tackled the subject of religious abuse before, even though it pops up in news stories frequently. Building a private practice around working with this population may not be anything you’ve ever imagined, but you’ll hear from someone who is doing it successfully. Connie Baker is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington. She’s found her niche in religious abuse recovery. Like many clinicians, Connie came to this field of work because of her personal experience of sexual abuse at the hand of religious clergy. Connie determined that the abuse wouldn’t stop her or prevent her from healing, and now she works with others who have endured the same abuse. In today’s conversation, we’ll learn how Connie came to this niche and how she markets it. We’ll learn about the amazing things she’s doing to expand into webinars, online courses, and writing books. Connie shares how she has branched out and built her successful practice. This episode is chock full of information about the benefits of focus niching. You can read the full show notes at: Session211

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Today’s topic is one that brings fear into the hearts of many: giving a presentation. Although many clinicians aspire to speak in front of peers on the topics with which we have the most passion, there is still the immense fear of those public speaking moments. How do we balance out that fear to impart the knowledge we want to give? We’re covering all aspects of this topic on today’s show. Marie Vakakis, LCSW, is a clinician in Australia. She’s here to share some of the things she has learned in her presentations specifically to teens and youth about a range of topics, including mental health first aid and non-suicidal self-injury. Our focus today is on mindset as we balance our desire to give presentations with the fears that we have about that undertaking. You can read the full show notes at: Session210

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Today’s show covers a topic that we’ve dealt with before, but I wanted to take a deeper dive into Immigration Hardship Evaluations. Let’s learn more together with today’s guest! Juan Santos is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Greensboro, NC. He’s here to talk about what he has learned about these evaluations and how to conduct, market, and charge for them. Our conversation gets to the real heart of the issue, based on Juan’s experiences in his clinical work. If you’ve been curious about these evaluations and wondered if you are qualified to do them, then this show will answer your questions and give you the relevant information.  You can read the full show notes at: Session209

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Have you heard much about “sales funnels”? If you have, the phrase might have conjured up visions of slick and slimy marketing schemes that haven’t left you with a positive feeling. Today’s show is all about building a funnel in an ethical way, along with things to think about regarding using funnels to grow your business--without the slick and slimy schemes. Joel Louis is the founder of Integrator and Co., where he focuses on funnel-building with his clients, helping them to grow their businesses in profound ways. He’s here to break funnels down so we can understand how to use them to attract our ideal customers. We will cover several funnel-related topics, including the essential pieces to building a sales funnel and why an email list is so important in growing your business. You can read the full show notes at: Session208

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Today’s show is a solo episode inspired by a recent roundtable that I led with some local therapists here in the Philadelphia area. A question came up that I’m asked often: “How do I know when I’m ready to launch a podcast?” There is no set time that’s right for everyone, but there are several factors to consider. That’s where today’s discussion takes us. You can read the full show notes at: Session207

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Today’s show is full of very practical tips that I hope will be helpful to you. We are talking about the nuances of building a sustainable practice with someone who has a wealth of knowledge. Laura Northrup is a Marriage and Family Therapist in Oakland, CA. She’s here to discuss a wide range of topics, including the biggest factors to consider before setting up a practice in a saturated area. We’ll discuss the most common mistakes new clinicians make when jumping into private practice, how to market and strategically build relationships with referral sources, and the struggles in niching. Laura also shares some top tips she’s learned along the way in her private practice journey. You can read the full show notes at: Session206

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Today’s topic is one that I’m excited to share with you. We are discussing using a combination of blogging and Pinterest to explode our website traffic. There is so much for us to learn! Daniel Fava is a previous guest on the show, and he’s become a good friend on whom I rely for input about website strategy and marketing. Many of us, as therapists, wonder how we can use Pinterest more effectively and utilize all that this platform has to offer. Daniel shares with us specific strategies like identifying your target audience, along with tips about the best ways to structure your Pinterest account. We’re discussing the best use of automation tools and keywords to maximize our use of Pinterest. Join me for a show that’s packed full of useful tips! You can read the full show notes at: Session205

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Welcome to a new season of STC! During the time off, I focused on rest, self-care, and family. I also spent time working on the STC Directory, trying to bring improvements that will benefit all of us. Today’s conversation is a relevant topic for every business owner. We’re discussing how to optimize your business in light of your tax situation. Opher Ganel is a previous guest on the show, as he was here last time to talk about setting fees. His wife is a therapist in private practice, so he has helped set up her practice and has vast experience in setting up small businesses. Opher has a wealth of knowledge, even though he is not an accountant. The information in today’s show is presented for educational purposes only. We are discussing why it is important to optimize our tax setup and whether you should be classified as a sole proprietor, an LLC, or an S-corp. I hope the show brings you helpful guidance and clarity. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session204 (Session204)

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As we wrap up this season, it’s a good time to evaluate where we are in our businesses. I thought it would be good to talk about how I structure my days and weeks to maximize productivity, focus on self-care, and stay intentional about working ON my business and not IN it. As a self-proclaimed productivity nerd, I’ve learned these things through trial and error and trying new things and tweaking them until they work best for me. I hope there are some good ideas here that will work for you! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session203 (Session203)

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How is your sleep? Sleep is a vitally important part of our lives that is often overlooked. We don’t usually think about the ways we cheat ourselves out of good sleep and how the quality of our sleep impacts every part of our day. Today’s show focuses on sleep as it relates to private practitioners and small business owners. Let’s explore how we can improve the quality of our sleep! Dr. Yishan Xu is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Los Altos, CA. She’s an expert on sleep and runs therapy groups on insomnia. Her podcast, Deep into Sleep, is launching soon, so she’s a great person to help us cover this topic. We’re discussing why sleep is so important and what an ideal night of sleep should look like. Yishan explains why people struggle with insomnia, how quality sleep impacts us as private practitioners, and the biggest mistakes small business owners make regarding sleep. She wraps up our conversation by giving us her best tips for great sleep from her work, training, and experience. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session202 (Session202)

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As clinicians, we often think about creative outlets for our messages of hope and healing. One of those that you might not have considered is creating a conference. It may sound like an overwhelming task, but it’s one that can be effective and fulfilling. Let’s discuss it in today’s show! Mercedes Samudio, LCSW, does a lot of good work around all things related to parenting. She’s written Shame-Proof Parenting and has created The Diversity in Parenting Conference, which explores the diverse ways that clinicians work with parents and families. The conference is coming up soon on September 13-14 in Anaheim, CA. In today’s show, Mercedes takes us behind the scenes to learn what it takes to put together a conference of this magnitude. Mercedes is excited to share with all of us what she’s learned from this first-time experience. She’ll share about the planning process and why she chose a conference as the medium to share her message instead of a webinar. Mercedes also fills us in on how she selected speakers and set fees for the event, along with the biggest lessons she’s learned along the way. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session201 (Session201)

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I can’t believe it’s here----Episode 200! I’m thrilled to have made it this far in my journey and to have so many of you along with me. Podcasting has made me more confident as a person and a speaker, and I’m thankful for the ways I’ve grown on this path. Today’s topic is one I’m very passionate about, and you’ve heard it mentioned many times on the show. We’re discussing what a clinician needs to have in place before scaling to multiple income streams. Nicole Liloia, LCSW, practices in New Jersey. She’s someone whose advice I trust regarding creating multiple income streams, which is becoming more and more common for those in private practice. We don’t often think about the groundwork that needs to be laid before we take that step, but systems and processes must be in place for things to flow smoothly. Each income stream brings its own level of stress, which must be managed. In today’s conversation, we’re discussing the biggest advantages to creating additional income streams, things to be aware of, and the most important things to have in place before branching out. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session200 (Session200) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Wellerz Don't waste money on traditional office space that you pay for no matter how many clients you need to see. Instead, only pay for the actual time you need to see clients with Wellerz. You can schedule the time you need inside the Wellerz scheduling portal and it's easy and cost effective to use! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/sellers (Wellerz)

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I never thought I’d have to do an episode like this one, but unfortunate events have brought me face-to-face with reality. One of my team members, Karen, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer earlier this year. Although she was undergoing chemo and radiation, she passed away a few weeks ago. Karen was an important part of the STC team who helped me a lot, especially in handling Facebook ads. The challenge for me has been balancing the grieving process while trying to carry on and pick up the pieces of Karen’s work. In this solo episode, we’re looking at things I’ve had to consider in new ways that might spur you to think about planning ahead in very practical ways. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session199 (Session199) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Today’s topic is one that I’m very passionate about, and I’m finding more and more clinicians who are making lifestyle changes and getting on board with self-care. Specifically, today’s show covers how we make self-care a regular and necessary part of our lifestyle. Lanie Smith is an integrative art therapist who is the perfect person with whom to have this discussion. It’s so easy for clinicians to think of self-care as an afterthought, especially during stressful times, but how do we go about integrating self-care into our lifestyle and not have it as just another item on the to-do list? Join us for more with Lanie! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session198 (Session198) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Today’s show covers a topic that is very important to clinicians, but it’s one that we don’t often talk about. We’re focusing on how we survive the day-to-day grind of private practice both as clinicians and business owners. I think the best way to face these struggles is to talk about them with colleagues and realize that we aren’t alone in whatever we face. Chris Griffin, LPC, went from solo to a group practice with five clinicians in the Greater Hartford, CT area. Chris joins me for an honest conversation about the day-to-day grind of private practice and the emotional ebbs and flows of the business. We discuss staying in the middle and how Chris stays hyper-focused, not getting too high with the highs or too low with the lows. We also discuss the vital importance of self-care for clinicians and what Chris does to keep up his self-care commitment. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session197 (Session197) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Today’s show is a little different than normal. We’re highlighting the first online marketplace exclusively for mental health professionals to buy and sell their original products. We’re talking to one of the founders of Practikat about her journey--and how this platform might be just what you’re looking for! Katie Englert has a group practice in Paducah, Kentucky, and fills her time with counseling, consulting, and public speaking. Today’s show focuses on her newest endeavor, Practikat, which came about because Katie was looking for a hub of resources for clinicians. She shares how she came up with the name and the branding advice she received from experts and attorneys. Katie explains how to go about setting up something like Practikat, how revenue is generated, how to test it out, and the logistics of the development process. Katie wraps up our time by sharing the advice she would give to herself in the past and the future. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session196 (Session196) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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In today’s solo episode, I’m sharing a book that has stood out in my life and might be helpful to you. Reading books about leadership and business is a cost-effective way to expand my knowledge and improve myself. I’ve set monthly reading goals for myself, and my Audible subscription has been a huge help in reaching those goals. See the Resources section for a link to give Audible a try. This book that I’ve read several times and is the topic of today’s discussion is The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session195 (Session195) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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The concept of “niching down” in your private practice is one we frequently discuss on STC. With that discussion come the questions about being specific enough---or maybe too specific. Is there such a thing? Today’s conversation is with someone who has wisdom to share from her own practice journey, which includes building a practice focused on treating self-harm in teens. Bess Child, LICSW, practices in Northborough, Massachusetts. She shares what she has learned on her journey to private practice and how she decided to work with teens who struggle with self-harm. We also discuss the marketing mistakes that some clinicians make, where she focuses her energy in terms of referrals, and how she employs out-of-the-box thinking to market her services. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session194 (Session194) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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It’s always interesting to learn how clinicians bring themselves into alignment with their deeper purpose and values. When this happens, the clinician will feel greater satisfaction and fulfillment in the work they do. Today’s show is another that focuses on ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Training) as we talk to today’s guest about his experience as he transitioned into private practice. David Teachout is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, Washington, although he has branched out to a full-service online practice that incorporates acceptance and commitment therapy. We’re discussing his journey and how he transitioned into private practice from community mental health. David shares what it was like for him to take an uncertain leap from something familiar and comfortable, and how he incorporates ACT into his conversations with clients in big and small ways. David also tells about starting his online counseling practice and how that aligns perfectly with his values. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session193 (Session193) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Wellerz Don't waste money on traditional office space that you pay for no matter how many clients you need to see. Instead, only pay for the actual time you need to see clients with Wellerz. You can schedule the time you need inside the Wellerz scheduling portal and it's easy and cost effective to use! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/sellers (Wellerz)

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Being a private practice owner and running your own business can be a daunting process with many things to learn. We are diving into the nuances of entrepreneurship today with someone willing to take the risk of failure and learn the lessons there. Lee-Chaix McDonough, LCSW, is here to discuss the mindset required to be a private practice owner and business owner. Lee’s book, Act on Your Business, is Amazon’s #1 new release in business entrepreneurship. In this episode, she explains the fear of failure and the fear of success, because success brings with it the fear of not being able to sustain it. Lee discusses the integration of our skillset and mindset and how to bring mindfulness into the entrepreneurial journey, through her “3 M’s of Entrepreneurship.”  You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session192 (Session192) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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It’s a new season for Selling the Couch, and I’m excited to be back after a few weeks off! We have a cool topic to discuss today, and it’s one we see frequent questions about in the STC Community. We’re discussing how to use G Suite as a tool for managing a private practice. Join us to learn more! Gordon Brewer, LMFT, is based in Kingsport, TN. He has a wealth of knowledge and experience with G Suite. We are discussing the G Suite tools available, best ways to use them in private practice, and Gordon’s course for training therapists to use G Suite to their advantage. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session191 (Session191) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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This episode features . . . .you! Nineteen of our listeners took the time to record their tips for getting referrals, which just happens to be the most-asked question for clinicians. This episode is bittersweet for me because it’s the last one of this season. I’m taking some time off to focus on being a husband and daddy and to take some much-needed time for self-care. But before I say goodbye, for now, let’s listen to these great ideas for getting those coveted referrals! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session190 (Session190) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Have you ever been called a perfectionist? It’s admirable to have high standards and be highly motivated, but perfectionism is a trap that many clinicians fall into. In today’s show, we’ll talk about how perfectionism impacts us in private practice and as business owners. Sharon Martin, LCSW, was a previous guest on the show, but that was WAY back in August 2015 (Episode 37), where she talked about blogging. Sharon revisits today to talk about her recent book, The CBT Workbook of Perfectionism. We’ll discuss how Sharon defines perfectionism and why so many in our field struggle with it. We’ll talk about some overt and covert ways that perfectionism shows up, and get Sharon’s tips and strategies for working through perfectionism and becoming more aware of it. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session189 (Session189) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Wellerz Don't waste money on traditional office space that you pay for no matter how many clients you need to see. Instead, only pay for the actual time you need to see clients with Wellerz. You can schedule the time you need inside the Wellerz scheduling portal and it's easy and cost effective to use! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/sellers (Wellerz)

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Today’s topic is one that you’ve probably not considered, but it’s immensely relevant in many areas of the US today. I’m excited to explore with you the ins and outs of establishing a bilingual practice, and we’ll consider what goes into that process with someone who has successfully navigated through it. Dr. Carmen Roman is a psychologist in San Jose, CA. She has an amazing story in that she has been a psychologist for over 25 years in an established group practice in Mexico. She then came to the US, went to grad school, and opened a practice in CA. We’re taking an interesting look at some of her insights from her practice in Mexico and the nuances of starting practices in two different countries. We’ll discuss how she markets a bilingual practice and what she enjoys about being a bilingual clinician, along with her perspective on niching. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session188 (Session188) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Wellerz Don't waste money on traditional office space that you pay for no matter how many clients you need to see. Instead, only pay for the actual time you need to see clients with Wellerz. You can schedule the time you need inside the Wellerz scheduling portal and it's easy and cost effective to use! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/sellers (Wellerz)

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Chances are you’ve thought about today’s topic at least once, or you may have your own similar experience. Many clinicians have gone through the transition from a full-time job into private practice. Today’s show is all about navigating the ups and downs of this important move. Tricia Miller is a LIcensed Professional Counselor in Houston, Texas. She has a unique background, with an undergrad degree in business, a job as a business analyst, and a stint as a school counselor. It was here that she realized she wanted to take the next step and start her private practice. Today’s show covers the steps in Tricia’s journey, what she’s learned along the way, and what the transition looked like for her. Tricia also shares how she worked through the fine line of disclosure. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session187 (Session187) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Today’s solo episode is an honest look at my journey as a business owner, especially concerning finances and business expenses. I always try to be transparent with you about my successes, and I think it’s equally important to be honest about the struggles, too. As we take a look back at how I structured my business to pay myself and track my expenses, you’ll see that I became less cautious with my spending. It was the principles set forth in a popular book that set this personal finance junkie on the happy path to saving money, managing profit, and finding peace. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session186 (Session186)   Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Today’s topic is one we haven’t covered before---building a sex therapy practice. Believe it or not, there aren’t that many clinicians who are specializing in this field. My guest today is an expert who has built a practice focused on this important niche. Nazanin Moali, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist in Torrance, CA. She’s here to share what she’s learned along the way, how she opened her private practice, and why she focused on sexuality. We are also discussing unique ways she is marketing her niche from a place of service. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session185 (Session185) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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It’s a challenge to open up and be vulnerable about what you’ve learned along your journey. Often, it’s that authenticity that is most effective in helping others learn from what YOU have learned. Today’s guest is an example of openness and vulnerability. Katie Leikam, LCSW, has a private practice in Decatur, GA. She is sharing with transparency about how she went from zero clients after the first four months to a thriving $100,000 practice. There is wisdom to be found in Katie’s experience, in the difficulties of building a business and the struggle to get the results you want. Katie opens up today about why and how she opened her private practice--even to zero clients, what she learned, and how she maintained a positive mindset. She also talks about the unique marketing strategies she has used to build relationships along the path to building her practice. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session184 (Session184) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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What have you heard about brainspotting? Is it something you’ve been curious about or may be considered for additional training? We’re on a mission today to learn more about this technique and how we can use it. Beth Medina, LMHC, also does coaching in her practice in Florida. She shares with us today what brainspotting is and how she got to the point where she knew this technique aligns with what she wants to do. Beth talks about the relationship between EMDR and brainspotting, how she’s created a business centered around brain spotting and the specific niches she’s chosen. We’ll also learn from Beth why brainspotting is an effective tool for clinicians. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session183 (Session183) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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What techniques have you found that help you stay on task each day? Maybe you have some tried and true habits, or maybe you recognize the need to put in place a little more structure. Either way, there is inspiration waiting for you in today’s show! Solo episodes are always fun for me because I love getting to share with you what I’m learning. Today’s topic is about the habits I’ve incorporated to maximize my productivity on a week-to-week basis. For many of us, our self-worth is measured by how much we get done, and it’s taken work for me to get past that judgmental place. I’ve found some things that work well for me; some are based on experience, learning, and tweaking, and some are based on research. I hope my tips will inspire you to evaluate your productivity and see what might work better for you. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session182 (Session182) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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As a clinician, do you have a social media policy? Is it something you’ve ever considered? If not, then this show may open your eyes to this topic. How can we as clinicians create a sound social media policy while navigating the intersection of our personal and professional lives? Dr. Keely Kolmes is a psychologist, speaker, consultant, writer, researcher, and innovator in San Francisco and Oakland, CA. Dr. Keely’s work covers many areas, but the development of a social media policy is one specific area of expertise. Let’s hear more about this interesting topic from Dr. Keely! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session181 (Session181) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Balance sheet, profit/loss statements, cash flow, business expense----do these terms send you into a sudden state of anxiety and panic? If so, then this is the perfect show for you! The entire topic of keeping accurate records for your business can be ultra-intimidating for any clinician. Let’s try to make sense of it all together! Greg Higdon is the founder of Grow the Books. He’s here to discuss the biggest bookkeeping blunders that clinicians make and offer solutions that make sense. If looking at your numbers makes you sweat, or if you’ve taken the ostrich approach of hiding your head in the sand, then I hope this episode will make things more manageable and less stressful for you. Join us! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session180 (Session180) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Wounded healer---it’s a term used frequently in our field, and one that resonates deeply with so many therapists. Time and time again, we hear of those drawn to the therapy field because of a desire to help others, which comes as an outgrowth of dealing with our personal pain. Today’s show is about the “wounded healer” in private practice and how we create a successful practice while owning our pain. Tacha Kasper, MFT Associate, has battled chronic pain and illness for over 12 years. Add to that the fact that she’s a breast cancer survivor, and you’ll see that she has a wealth of knowledge about our topic. Formerly in the corporate world, Tacha transitioned to counseling because of her health concerns and the overriding desire to use her experiences to help others heal from their pain. Join us to hear more from Tacha! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session179 (Session179) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Welcome to the first episode of 2019! This show is a little different, as I’m being interviewed by Patricia Young, whom you may remember as a previous STC guest. She’s been here before, discussing highly sensitive people and how she built her niche as an LCSW. Today’s show is an open and honest look at the life events of the past year and the lessons learned by yours truly. You may remember that we welcomed our first child into our family in 2018, and with her early arrival, there have been big changes in my life. Life doesn’t stop as we are busy building a business and a career, so how do we balance it all and keep things going simultaneously? I hope our authentic conversation is a source of encouragement for the changes and challenges that you may face in the coming year. You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session178 (Session178) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Where do your ideal clients hang out? Who are the people and organizations that are serving them? These are questions you should answer as you consider narrowing your focus and attracting your ideal clients. Today’s show dives into the practical steps you can take to accomplish these important goals. Keri Nola is a dear friend who has been on the show before. Keri has branched out of her psychotherapy background to mentor, awaken, and support healers of all kinds through her newly established practice in San Diego. She has a lot of answers to the questions we might ask about attracting ideal clients. She explains why it’s best to focus on the ideal client, how to find those ideal clients, and why those ideal clients need the services you offer. This will be the final episode of 2018, as I take some time to focus on my new responsibility as a father and enjoy the holidays with my family. I hope you’ll plan to join us for more great conversations in 2019! You can read the full show notes at: http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session177 (Session177) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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If you heard Episode 175, then you know that we are continuing the discussion about peer supervision groups. We discussed how to structure the group, who should be included, and what you should cover when you meet. Today’s discussion goes a step further, and we discuss the pros and cons for charging for the group, how often your group should meet, and the logistics of where the group should meet. Jill Kaufman, MSW, LCSW, has a private practice in Princeton, NJ. She has experienced the challenges of starting a peer supervision group and has great words of wisdom to share about what she has figured out. Join us for the second part of this series to learn more! You can read the full show notes at: Session176 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Have you thought about starting a peer supervision group? It’s a great way to get feedback from colleagues, combat the isolation of a private practice, and even gain cross-referrals. Where do you start? How do you structure the group? What do you cover in the group? Who needs to be in the group? You can see that this topic gives way to many questions about making it work. Today’s show dives into the nuts and bolts of a peer supervision group. Now’s your chance to learn more! Jill Kaufman, MSW, LCSW, has a private practice in Princeton, NJ. She’s here to talk about how to start and build the format for a peer supervision group. We’ll discuss how to know what topics to cover, how many members you should have, common formats and structures, and the pros and cons of a topic-based group. Today’s episode is the first in a two-part series with Jill on this topic, so don’t miss Episodes 175 and 176! You can read the full show notes at: Session175 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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As business owners, we want freedom and flexibility, but as we evolve, we encounter the difficulties of life. Sometimes we find ourselves out of balance with what’s really important and we are obligated and overextended in ways we didn’t envision. Today’s show is all about respecting the life seasons in which we find ourselves and giving ourselves permission to say YES or NO to the demands on our time. Naphtali Roberts, LMFT, is based in Montrose, CA. She is a busy private practice therapist, wife, and mother. She shares how her life and her business have looked when she has respected--and NOT respected--the seasons of life. Additionally, she helps us take an honest look at pace, structure, and scheduling to help us realize that those tools do not equal lazy and unintentional. You can read the full show notes at: Session174 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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How do the worlds of immigration and LCSW intersect? It may not be a connection that you think of, but the need is there for immigration evaluations to be done, and this is where my guest today has stepped in and found her niche. Cecilia Racine, LCSW, has a private practice in Fairfax, Virginia. Even though she didn’t start out in the immigration field, she came upon this niche through specific circumstances. Today she shares how she got started with her first client and what the immigration evaluation process looks like. She also explains how she sets fees and the systems and processes that she uses most. We will learn how she markets her practice and how you can get started if you’re interested in making immigration evaluations a part of your therapy practice. You can read the full show notes at : Session173 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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With the growth of the telemedicine industry in recent years, have you considered using this technology in your private practice? If your curiosity is piqued, then you might wonder about the differences in marketing online counseling vs. a traditional private practice. Join us to learn more about this intriguing concept. Shelly Smith, LMFT, shares a private practice with her business partner, Jennifer. They have ventured into online counseling with their practice, United Counseling Wellness, based in Minneapolis and Milwaukee. Shelly will share what she has learned in this endeavor and how the therapy field is changing. She will also answer a few listener questions about online counseling, liabilities, and client screening. You can read the full show notes at: Session172 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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How do you succeed in marketing your practice when you tend toward introversion? So many clinicians are not extroverts and don’t feel comfortable with the traditional networking that is required in marketing. There are challenges to face, and fortunately, there are non-traditional forms of marketing that can be done. This show will give you some valuable information and practical insights about marketing for non-extroverts. Patricia Young, LCSW, is based in California, but also offers teletherapy sessions for her clients. Her practice focuses on helping HSP’s (highly sensitive people) experience more ease and peace and thrive with less overwhelm and fatigue. In today’s show, Patricia discusses marketing and the fears around it, along with how we can honor who we really are and still present our business in authentic ways. She shares with us three non-traditional marketing methods that have worked well for her that might be just what you’re looking for! You can read the full show notes at : Session171 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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No doubt you’ve heard questions---and experienced some confusion about how to get credentialed and get on insurance panels. We have had many questions about this topic in the STC community, so today’s show seeks to dispel some of the mystery surrounding this process. Jeremy Zug, from Practice Solutions, works with clinicians with insurance billing issues. He handles your insurance billing problems so you can focus on providing superior care for your patients. In today’s conversation, we learn what “getting credentialed and paneled” means, we break down terms that can be confusing, and Jeremy walks us through the major steps in the process and the top mistakes that clinicians make.  You can read the full show notes at : Session170 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Grief, mourning, and loss---they aren’t topics we usually enjoy discussing, but whether we like it or not, they are processes that we all have to go through at some point in life. For a therapist, how do you build your private practice while dealing with these intense feelings, and what would prompt you to find your niche within this realm? Today’s guest answers these questions and more as we delve into this topic to begin a new season of STC. Nikki Sewell, LCSW, has tackled building a private practice through the loss of a loved one. She and her husband, Andrew, built a private practice together with his psychiatry work and her social work. Shortly after establishing the practice, he had complications following an extensive surgery and passed away unexpectedly. Nikki was only 30 years old when she became a widow and had to endure grief, loss, and the practical steps involved in moving forward. In today’s conversation, Nikki shares candidly about what inspired them to form a joint practice, how she felt the strength and resolve to keep going, and how her vision for the practice has changed. She also shares how her personal experiences with grief and loss have factored into the niche she has chosen for her practice. You can read the full show notes at : http://www.sellingthecouch.com/session169 (Session169) Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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When it comes to your business, how much is ENOUGH? How do you even know what enough is? These are questions we can all use some clarity about, along with evaluating the success of our business. Today’s show is a solo episode and the last one before I take the month of August off for a time of self-care and refreshment before returning with new shows in September. I’ve begun doing this a few times each year and have seen great benefit in the downtime. This particular break has added meaning, as we prepare to welcome our first baby in just a few weeks. I know that this transition to parenthood will mean changes in my personal life and in my business, so it’s a very fitting time to take a reflective look at this concept of ENOUGH. You can read the full show notes at: Session168 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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Have you ever neglected your own needs to work with your clients? Have you sacrificed time for personal self-care to squeeze in “one more client”? Most clinicians are probably guilty of this behavior, called Sacrificial Helping Syndrome. I know what it is because I have lived it, as most other clinicians have done also. Let’s address this common problem in today’s conversation. My guest is Katie Vernoy, LMFT, in Torrance, CA. Many clinicians struggle with giving so much of themselves because they see overexerting themselves and taking on too much as a badge of honor. They also see it as a measure of competence and success. Katie sheds insight on this common problem and how we can see it in ourselves and be honest in addressing it. We also discuss how to maintain the balance of being a helper and a healer with a kind heart and being a business owner at the same time. You can read the full show notes at: Session167 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)

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How can a clinician deal with chronic illness? Is it possible to continue running your business and furthering your career? This is a topic I’ve wanted to dive into because I know many of my private practice colleagues are dealing with some form of chronic illness or chronic pain. We all know that life and your business don’t stop when illness strikes, so let’s jump into this discussion. Daniela Paolone, MS, LMFT, is a counselor in Westlake Village, CA. She’s here to discuss her journey with chronic illness while maintaining her private practice and to teach us what she’s learned. There are some good pearls of wisdom in our conversation around having self-compassion and not falling prey to comparisons. You can read the full show notes at: Session166 Mentioned in this episode: Today's Sponsor is Turning Point HQ Don't let your own money blocks rob you of your future financial security. Turning Point HQ is a financial planning company specifically for therapists. They've created a free guide to help you avoid the 7 money mistakes that most therapists make. Download the free guide today! https://selling-the-couch.captivate.fm/turningpointhq (Turning Point HQ)