
Selling the Couch
Selling the Couch is a top career podcast for mental health private practitioners. Hosted by psychologist Melvin Varghese, it features interviews with successful therapists and business experts on building a private practice. Topics include referrals, growth strategies, overcoming fears, and generating income beyond therapy. The podcast has been featured in Psychology Today and Psych Central.
Episodes
ENCORE: A Live vs. Pre-Recorded Online Course
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, LMFTKristen 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 Chap
ENCORE: The Process of Creating and Marketing Your Product Using the Feelings Wheel
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 R
ENCORE: The Power of Depth Over Scale
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 intent
423: Why Google Is Done With Your Reels (And What Smart Therapists Are Creating Instead)
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 coa
422: What Happens to Your Clients If Something Happens to You?
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
421: A Quick Clinical + Life Update
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
420: How A Therapist's Website Shapes A Client's First Impression
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
419: Why Smart, Thoughtful Professionals Are Pulling Back From Social Media
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
418: Human-Centric Marketing: Choosing Connection Over Algorithms
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
417: Is Ai Killing Our Ability To Protect Time?
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 instea
416: Is Blogging Still Worth It In The AI Age?
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 blo
415: What Actually Drives Podcast Downloads Based on Real Data
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 gua
ENCORE: Researching and Finding an Audience for Your E-Course
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 fo
ENCORE: How to Show Up Imperfect In Your Marketing
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
ENCORE: Pro Tips To Improve The Quality Of Live Videos
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.--Want to launch your online course or YouTube c
ENCORE: How I’m Thinking About YouTube as a Podcaster (and Dad)
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 ha
414: Why Most Online Courses Fail (Even If the Content Is Good)
“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
413: What They Don’t Tell Therapists About Owning a Small Business
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 pr
412: How to Create a Podcast That Actually Pays Off
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 compo
411: Making Peace with Your Becoming: Navigating Brand Evolution as a Therapist
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 i
410: Why Many Therapists Quietly Reject Social Media Fame
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 i
409: How to Use AI for Content Creation—Without Losing Your Voice
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 concern
408: If I Were in Grad School Again: 5 Career Shifts I'd Make
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-ter
407: How to Build Emotional Fitness as a Therapist and Quiet Leader
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 emo
406: How to AI-Proof Your Online Course as a Therapist
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
ENCORE: Charging Premium Prices For Your Online Course (Money Blocks + Fears)
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, LCSWNikki 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 practic
ENCORE: Mental Roadblocks Of Going From Clinician To Coach with Angela Williams, LCSW
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
ENCORE: 3 Tips To Become An Awesome Storyteller Online
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 GuestKieran DrewKieran Drew lives in Leeds, England, and is my writing coach for Twitter. In an interesting career
ENCORE: The 10 Biggest Mistakes I Made As An Online Course Creator
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
ENCORE: Where Should I Focus My Online Course Marketing?
Our Featured Guest for today’s call: Heather McKenzie, LCMHCSHeather 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
ENCORE: 7 Questions to Ask Before Launching an Online Course
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 services7 Questions to Ask Before Launching an Online Course:Have people paid me one-on-one for this course idea?Can I see myse
ENCORE: Burnout in High-Achieving Mental Health Professionals
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
405: I’m Shutting Down Our $9K Mastermind. Here’s Why.
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
404: Building an Anti-Racist Practice in Times Like These
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 GuestKenya CrawfordKenya Crawford is a licensed therapist and trained facilitator who works with individuals, companies, and t
403: Turning Your Podcast into a Deeper Platform for Courses, Your Book, and Speaking
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 l
402: Closing Your Private Practice: What Therapists Need to Know
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 GuestDr. Jen BlanchetteDr. Jen Blanchette is a
401: How To Create An Online Course That Actually Gets Finished
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
400: The Power of Depth Over Scale
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 slow
399: How to Create a Personal Brand With Authenticity, Heart, and Grace with Adrienne Wilkerson
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 Gue
398: What Therapists Get Wrong About Selling Their First Online Course
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
397: Mindful Race Talk: How Clinicians Can Use Language For Conversations That Matter
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 GuestDr. Nathalie EdmondDr. Nathalie Edmond is a licensed psychologist and the author of Mindful Race Talk: Building Literacy, Fl
ENCORE: How to (Correctly) Pitch Podcasts with Dustin Riechmann
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 GuestDustin RiechmannDustin Ri
ENCORE: Why Every Course Creator Should Start A Podcast
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 stre
ENCORE: Leaving Therapy for Coaching with Dr. Corey Wilks
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 GuestDr. Corey WilksDr
ENCORE: How To Avoid Information Overload In Your Online Course
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:Heathe
ENCORE: Behind The Scenes Of A Rebrand
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 GuestKevon CheungKevon Cheung is the founder and head teacher at Small School. He was a previous guest on
ENCORE: When An Idea For An Online Course Comes From Therapy Sessions
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 Gue
ENCORE: How To Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
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 Linke
ENCORE: The Beginners Guide To Launching A Course Affiliate Program
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 affili
ENCORE: 7 Daily Habits That Changed My Relationship With My Podcast (And Made It Sustainable)
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 im
ENCORE: Is Your Course Idea Any Good? Here’s How To Tell
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 th
ENCORE: When An Idea For An Online Course Comes From Therapy Sessions
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 Gue
ENCORE: What I Learned from Creating a Course for CEUs with Matthew Bierds
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 GuestMatthew BierdsMatt Bi
ENCORE: If I Were Launching An Online Course Soon, I'd Do This...
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!
396: Designing a Life-First Business In An Uncertain World
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 stepp
395: Building a Private Practice Around The “Nice Guy Syndrome” Niche
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 GuestJonathan Rudiger, PsyDJonathan 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
394: How To Set Boundaries With Clients By Managing Up
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 GuestMelody WildingMelody Wilding, LMSW, has been in the coaching space for the past few years, doing amazing work through spe
393: Is Your Course Idea Any Good? Here’s How To Tell
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 th
392: Insurance Denials and Rejections: Why Do They Happen, and How Do You Fix Them?
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 GuestJeremy ZugJeremy Zug is a partner at Practice Solutions, which offers support and
391: Why Quiet Builders Are The Future
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
390: How Will AI Impact Website SEO
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 f
389: Why Podcasting Is Still One Of The Best Ways For Therapists To Build A Trusted Voice
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
388: Why Some Offers Sell and Others Flop
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 GuestPrerna MalikPrerna has worked with well-known entrepreneurs like Pat Flynn as a conversion copywriter. She and I connected on LinkedIn, and
ENCORE: 7 Daily Habits That Changed My Relationship With My Podcast (And Made It Sustainable)
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 im
ENCORE: 5 Signs You're Ready To Launch Your Online Course
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 meThe biggest lessons I learned from my multiple fears of getting star
ENCORE: Uncomfortable Truths About Private Practice Finances
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 ChildressJames Childress is a
ENCORE: What Therapists Should Know As Billions Are Invested In Mental Health Startups
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 ou
387: How To Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile
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 m
386: Why I Don’t Want To Be Social Media Famous
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 explo
385: 7 Daily Habits That Changed My Relationship With My Podcast (And Made It Sustainable)
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 im
384: Should I Hire An Intake Coordinator For My Private Practice?
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 GuestUriah GuilfordUriah Guilford is a group practice owner based in northern Cal
383: 5 Signs You're Ready To Launch Your Online Course
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 meThe biggest lessons I learned from my multiple fears of getting star
382: Uncomfortable Truths About Private Practice Finances
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 ChildressJames Childress is a
381: 5 Lessons from 2 Years on LinkedIn
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 la
380: Why Are Therapists Burning Out Of Private Practice?
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 GuestDr. Jennifer Blanchette is a licensed psychologist, podcaster, speaker, career coach,
379: Why I'm Pausing My Private Practice
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,
ENCORE: If I Were Launching An Online Course Soon, I'd Do This...
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!
ENCORE: Low Risk Ways To Host Your First Retreat with Megan Gunnell
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 GuestMegan GunnellIn addition to being a busine
ENCORE: When An Idea For An Online Course Comes From Therapy Sessions
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 Gue
ENCORE: Behind The Scenes Of A Rebrand
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 GuestKevon CheungKevon Cheung is the founder and head teacher at Small School. He was a previous guest on











