The Dr.Des Show

▶ Free Workshop: Public Health Consulting 101The last piece of the puzzle is knowing how to get in front of the people who can pay you. Dr. Des is teaching a free live workshop — Public Health Consulting 101 — on June 16th AND June 17th. Two days. Same content. Come live.👉 Save your seat at https://www.publichealthclub.com/public-health-consulting-trainingResources MentionedFree LinkedIn Guide — Step-by-step profile optimization, thought leadership strategy, and copy-paste DM templates for pitching clients. Free inside The Public Health Club at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Six Figure Public Health Consultant Playbook — Workbook companion for the PHC Consulting 101 class. Free inside PHC at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Public Health Consulting 101 — Free live workshop, June 16 + June 17. Register at https://www.publichealthclub.com/public-health-consulting-trainingSubcontracting to Six Figures (S26F) — Special member offer ends June 15th. General public doors open June 16th. https://www.publichealthclub.com/courseApplying to RFPs isn't the only way to land consulting contracts — and for Dr. Des, it's not even the primary one anymore. In Day 5 of Public Health Consulting Week, she breaks down how to use LinkedIn to position yourself in front of potential clients, what thought leadership content actually looks like in a public health consulting context, and the exact approach to go from following someone to getting a call on their calendar.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy LinkedIn is non-negotiable if you want contracts to come to youThe most common LinkedIn mistakes that keep consultants invisibleWhy you don't need a business page — your personal profile can do the workWhat thought leadership content looks like for a public health consultantWhy one month of posting is not enough — and what the real timeline looks likeHow to find, follow, engage with, and pitch the people who can hire youTimestamps[00:00] Welcome to Day 5 — wrapping up the week and what comes next[01:30] How Dr. Des stopped applying to RFPs and what replaced it[03:00] The $25K project management contract that came from an old boss[04:30] Why LinkedIn is the first place to start if you want inbound contracts[06:00] The most common LinkedIn profile mistakes consultants make[07:30] Personal page vs. business page — what Dr. Des actually uses[08:30] What thought leadership content looks like for PH consultants[10:00] How long consistency actually takes — and what realistic expectations look like[11:30] How to find potential clients and slide into the right DMs[13:00] Free LinkedIn Guide + Six Figure Consultant Playbook inside PHC[14:30] S26F club member special — offer ends June 15thFrequently Asked QuestionsDo you need a business LinkedIn page to land consulting contracts?No. Dr. Des built her consulting practice  from her personal LinkedIn page without ever creating a business profile for Strickland Health Consulting. If you're the one doing the work and showing up as the consultant, your personal page is enough. Start there.What kind of content should public health consultants post on LinkedIn?Post thought leadership tied to your niche. If you specialize in evaluation, share findings from a project, discuss methodology, or weigh in on a relevant study. The goal is to make it visible that you know what you're doing — so that when potential clients see your profile, they already trust your expertise before you reach out.How long does it take to start landing contracts through LinkedIn?Longer than most people expect. Dr. Des recommends giving it at least six months of consistent posting before measuring results. The people who give up after a month never see the payoff. Consistency is the variable most consultants underestimate — not the platform itself.About The Dr. Des ShowThe Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

▶ Free Workshop: Public Health Consulting 101Partnering on contracts is one of the fastest ways to go after bigger opportunities — but only if you do it right. Dr. Des is teaching a free live workshop — Public Health Consulting 101 — on June 16th AND June 17th. Come with your questions. Leave with a plan.👉 Save your seat at https://www.publichealthclub.com/public-health-consulting-trainingResources MentionedFree Contract Partnership Playbook — Interview questions, MOU guidance, and everything you need to structure a consulting partnership. Free inside The Public Health Club at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Six Figure Public Health Consultant Playbook — Workbook companion for the PHC Consulting 101 class. Free inside PHC at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Public Health Consulting 101 — Free live workshop, June 16 + June 17. Register at https://www.publichealthclub.com/public-health-consulting-trainingSubcontracting to Six Figures (S26F) — Open now for PHC members. General public doors open June 16th. https://www.publichealthclub.com/coursePartnering is one of the smartest moves you can make when going after a contract — but most people do it wrong. In Day 4 of Public Health Consulting Week, Dr. Des breaks down how to identify the right partner, why complementary skills matter more than shared ones, how to structure the relationship legally before a single dollar is awarded, and what needs to be in writing before anyone starts the work.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy you should look for complementary skills — not duplicate ones — in a partnerHow to properly vet a potential partner before committing to a joint proposalWhy you should always apply under one business name (and what prime awardee vs. subcontractor means)What a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is and when to use oneWhat needs to be in a formal contract once you've been awarded fundsWhy project management experience is one of the most valuable assets a consultant can haveTimestamps[00:00] Welcome to Day 4 — and why partnering is one of Dr. Des's favorite topics[01:30] S26F update — open for PHC members today; general public June 16th[03:00] The most common partnering mistake people make in the PHC community[04:30] How to identify exactly what skills you need in a partner[06:00] Complementary vs. duplicate skills — and why the difference matters[07:30] How to vet a partner: Google Form + 30-minute interview[09:30] Apply under one business name — prime awardee and subcontractor explained[11:00] What an MOU is and why you need one before the award[12:30] What to include in a formal contract once funds are awarded[14:00] Payment terms, deliverables, and hour tracking — handle it upfront[15:30] Free Contract Partnership Playbook + Six Figure Consultant Playbook inside PHCFrequently Asked QuestionsHow do you find the right partner for a public health consulting contract?Start by reviewing the RFP and identifying exactly what skills it requires that you don't already have. Then look specifically for someone who fills those gaps — not someone who does the same things you do. Post a specific ask, collect applications via a Google Form, and do a 30-minute interview before committing to anything.Should two consultants apply under separate business names?No. Apply under one business. The client will cut one check and work with one point of contact — two separate business names on a contract creates confusion and can hurt your chances. One person serves as the prime awardee; the other operates as a subcontractor underneath them. Decide who takes which role before you submit.What is an MOU and do you need one when partnering on a contract?An MOU — Memorandum of Understanding — is a legal document that outlines the terms of your partnership before any money changes hands. It has no financial obligation attached, but it establishes who is responsible for what. Once you're awarded the contract, follow it up with a formal subcontractor agreement that specifies payment amounts, timelines, deliverables, and how hours are tracked.About The Dr. Des ShowThe Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Resources MentionedFree Niche Development Worksheet — Helps you identify your consulting specialty and articulate it clearly to clients. Free inside The Public Health Club at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Free Skills Translation Guide — From Day 1. Translate your PH skills into consulting language. Inside PHC at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Free RFP Go/No-Go Checklist — From Day 2. Inside PHC at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Public Health Consulting 101 — Free live workshop, June 16 + June 17. Register at https://www.publichealthclub.com/public-health-consulting-trainingSubcontracting to Six Figures (S26F) — Doors open June 16th. Six weeks, step-by-step. https://www.publichealthclub.com/courseHow to Find Your Public Health Consulting Niche | The Dr. Des Show Ep. [#]Trying to do everything in public health is exactly what's keeping you from landing contracts. In Day 3 of Public Health Consulting Week, Dr. Des breaks down what a consulting niche actually is, why being a generalist works against you, and the two questions that will help you identify your specialty fast. She also tackles the myth that multiple revenue streams mean doing five things at once — and why it almost never works that way.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy "I do health equity" is not a niche — and what to say insteadHow being a generalist gets your proposal skipped overThe two questions that reveal your consulting nicheWhy doing work you actually enjoy makes building a business significantly easierHow multiple revenue streams actually develop — and why you start with oneHow to talk about your niche confidently in networking conversations and at conferencesTimestamps[00:00] Welcome to Day 3 — and why niche is today's focus[01:30] What a niche actually is and why public health training works against us[03:00] Why "I can do everything" loses contracts[04:30] The two questions: what do you like to do, and what are you good at?[06:30] How Dr. Des's own niche evolved — from health equity trainings to PHC[08:00] Multiple streams of revenue: the real way it happens[09:30] How to talk about your niche in a live networking moment[11:00] Free Niche Development Worksheet inside PHC + S26F doors opening June 16thFrequently Asked QuestionsWhat is a consulting niche in public health?A niche is the specific service you offer — not a topic area, a deliverable. "Health equity" is a topic. "Health equity-focused program evaluation for nonprofits" is a niche. Clients hire consultants for specific projects, and if they can't quickly identify what you do and how it benefits them, your proposal gets passed over.How do I figure out my public health consulting niche?Start with two questions: What do you actually enjoy doing in public health? And what do other people consistently come to you for or compliment you on? Where those two answers overlap is usually your niche. If you're still unsure, the free Niche Development Worksheet inside PHC walks you through it step by step.Do I need multiple services to build a consulting business?No. Multiple revenue streams almost always start from one strong one. Pick the service you do best, build a track record with it, then branch off from there. Trying to launch multiple offers at once splits your focus and makes it harder to win anything. Start with one. Get a client. Then grow.About The Dr. Des ShowThe Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Free RFP Go/No-Go Checklist — Inside The Public Health Club. Download at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Free Skills Translation Guide — From Day 1. Translate your PH skills into consulting language. Inside PHC at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Digital Portfolio Workshop — Learn to build a portfolio that gets you hired. Inside PHC at https://www.publichealthclub.com/Public Health Consulting 101 — Free live workshop, June 16 + June 17. Register at https://www.publichealthclub.com/publ...Subcontracting to Six Figures (S26F) — Dr. Des's six-week course for landing your first contract. https://www.publichealthclub.com/courseNot every RFP deserves a proposal. In Day 2 of Public Health Consulting Week, Dr. Des walks through the exact questions to ask before you invest time writing a submission — from whether you actually have the expertise to whether the budget is even worth your time. She also covers when and how to partner with colleagues on larger contracts, and why vetting your partners is just as important as vetting the opportunity itself.In This Episode, You'll LearnThe difference between "can I do this" and "can I prove I've done this" — and why it mattersWhy public health consultants need at least five years of direct experience before pursuing contractsHow to evaluate whether the client type matches your backgroundWhat to do when the budget doesn't match the scope of workHow to assess whether the timeline is realistic before you commitHow to partner with colleagues on contracts — and how to vet them firstFrequently Asked QuestionsHow do you decide if an RFP is worth responding to?Run it through four questions: Does it fit your expertise? Can you prove you've done this work before? Does the budget match the scope? Does the timeline work? If you're thinking "I could probably figure this out" — that's a no-go. Clients hire consultants to come in and lead. They don't have time to train you.How much public health experience do you need before consulting?At minimum, five years of direct public health work — not school, not occasional volunteering. Consulting clients are paying for expertise they can deploy immediately. They need you to come in, do the work, and deliver. Less than five years makes it hard to demonstrate that level of independence.Is it okay to partner with a colleague on a consulting contract?Yes — partnering is one of the best ways to go after larger contracts. But vet your partner the way you'd vet a hire. If they're working under your business, your name and reputation are on the line. Meet with them, assess their work, and confirm they can deliver before you attach your name to a joint proposal.About The Dr. Des ShowThe Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Resources Mentioned:Free Translation Guide — Translates your public health skills into consulting language for nonprofits, health systems, and private organizations. Free inside The Public Health Club: https://www.publichealthclub.com/Public Health Consulting 101 — Free live workshop, June 16 + June 17. Register at https://www.publichealthclub.com/publ...Subcontracting to Six Figures (S26F) — Dr. Des's six-week course for landing your first contract. Learn more at https://www.publichealthclub.com/courseThe fastest way to lose a consulting contract before it starts? Walk in talking like you're applying for a job. In this episode — kicking off Public Health Consulting Week — Dr. Des breaks down the language shift every new public health consultant needs to make, why your grant-writing instincts will backfire with nonprofits, and how two S26F students translated their skills into a $67,000 contract for a library.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy switching from "I" to "we" is the first move you need to make as a consultantHow to translate public health terminology into language your clients actually useWhy writing proposals like a federal grant will get you rejected by smaller clientsThe two paths to landing contracts — and which one Dr. Des shifted toward after burning out on RFPsHow public health skills like strategic planning and facilitation transfer to non-traditional sectorsWhat Dr. Des's first three contracts looked like — $40K, $7K, $85K — all while fully employedFrequently Asked QuestionsHow do you start speaking the consulting language as a public health professional?Shift from "I" to "we." Refer to your business by name — "Strickland Health Consulting provides..." — even as a solo consultant. It positions you as a business, not a job applicant. Exception: when a client specifically requests a solo contractor.Why do public health consultants struggle to win contracts with nonprofits?Most PH professionals are trained to write long federal grants. Smaller nonprofits can't absorb a 50-page proposal — and academic language signals a mismatch. Write shorter, outcome-focused proposals and translate your terminology. "Impact reporting" lands; "evaluation" often doesn't.Do I need to leave my full-time job to start consulting?No. Dr. Des's first contract — $40,000 — came while she was fully employed. Her second was $7,000, her third was $85,000, all alongside a full-time job. The best time to start is while your salary still covers the bills.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Register for the Public Health Consulting 101 Training on June 16th & 17th: https://www.publichealthclub.com/public-health-consulting-trainingJoin The Public Health Club | publichealthclub.comWhy You Haven't Landed Your First Consulting Client | The Dr. Des ShowIf you're a public health professional who keeps applying for contracts and coming up empty, the problem probably isn't your qualifications — it's a few fixable mistakes you don't even know you're making. In this solo episode, Dr. Des breaks down the real reasons public health consultants struggle to land their first client or build consistent work: writing proposals like federal grants, leading with credentials instead of outcomes, and showing up without a portfolio that actually proves what you can do. She also shares how to use AI tools to sharpen your one-sentence pitch and why getting out of the house to network might be the most underrated move in consulting right now.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy treating a nonprofit proposal like a federal grant application is costing you contracts — and what to do insteadHow to lead with your expertise (not your degrees) when you're in the room with potential clientsThe one-sentence pitch formula that makes your services instantly clear to non-technical buyersHow to use AI tools like Claude and ChatGPT to build a client-specific portfolio fastWhy your resume and portfolio need to be outcomes-based — not task-basedThe mindset shift around rejection that keeps Dr. Des applying even after "no"Resources MentionedSubcontracting to Six Figures — Dr. Des's consulting course; join the waitlist at the link belowThe Public Health Club — publichealthclub.com (7-day free trial; RFP opportunities, workshops on demand, mentorship sessions)Claude — AI tool Dr. Des uses for proposal writing, portfolio building, and pitch refinement (claude.ai)ChatGPT — voice recording feature recommended for dictating and refining your one-sentence pitchWisper — AI voice-to-text tool for recording your pitch in any software; installable on desktopAbout The Dr. Des ShowThe Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.Connect with Dr. Des:Join The Public Health Club: publichealthclub.comInstagram: @DesireeCourtneyJ | @the_publichealthclubLinkedIn: Dr. Desiree Strickland | The Public Health Clubhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Sign up for the FREE Public Health Consulting 101 Workshop: https://www.publichealthclub.com/public-health-consulting-trainingJoin The Public Health Club and access millions in consulting opportunities, workshops to help get you started and a community of professionals and resources to help you get to the next level | https://www.publichealthclub.com/Starting a public health consulting business doesn't require a perfect website, a full team, or years of prep — but it does require the right foundation. In this solo episode, Dr. Des breaks down exactly how to build a public health consulting business, drawing from her own journey of launching Strickland Health Consulting seven months pregnant and landing her first contract before her daughter was born. You'll learn the minimum experience you need, why an LLC matters (and what it protects you from), the two assets that are non-negotiable before you apply anywhere, and the two paths to landing your first client. No fluff, no gatekeeping — just the real starting point.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy you need at least five years of direct work experience before you start consulting — and how to translate any niche into contractsThe real reason to form an LLC before you sign your first contract (hint: it's not about looking professional)How to pick a consulting niche even if you can do "all the things"The two minimum assets every new public health consultant needs before applying anywhereThe two paths to landing your first client: marketing your services vs. applying to RFPs — and how to chooseWhere to find 80+ non-federal RFPs every single month as a club memberWhy you don't need a website to make hundreds of thousands in consultingResources MentionedSubcontracting to Six Figures — Dr. Des's signature course for building and landing consulting contracts; join the waitlist Most In-Demand Consulting Skills Report — free download at publichealthclub.com → Resources → Free ResourcesVanessa Da Costa's Consulting Resume Workshop — available on-demand inside The Public Health ClubDr. Des's Digital Portfolio Workshop — available on-demand inside The Public Health ClubThe Public Health Club — publichealthclub.com (7-day free trial)About The Dr. Des ShowThe Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.Connect with Dr. Des:Join The Public Health Club: publichealthclub.comInstagram: @DesireeCourtneyJ | @the_publichealthclubLinkedIn: Dr. Desiree Strickland | The Public Health Clubhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

▶ Join The Public Health ClubYou graduated — now what? The Public Health Club has everything you need to land your first public health job: resume workshops, a digital portfolio workshop, career coaching, interview prep, the Public Health Pivot course, and a community of professionals who actually want to see you win. Seven days free, then $29.99/month.👉 Start your free trial at publichealthclub.comGraduation is a milestone — but nobody tells you what the job search actually looks like on the other side of it. In this episode, Dr. Des breaks down the full post-graduation playbook for public health grads at every level: when to start applying (hint: six months before you walk across the stage), what the hiring timeline really looks like at large organizations, how to build a resume that gets callbacks instead of silence, why you need a digital portfolio and what goes in it, and the job titles in health economics and biopharma that your professors never mentioned — but that you can absolutely get with your degree. She also shares the story of her own first public health interview, why she knew she didn't get the job the moment she left the room, and what she changed to start getting offers.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy Dr. Des recommends starting your job search six months before graduation — and how to handle it if you get hired while you're still in schoolThe full hiring timeline at large organizations (it's longer than you think — and now you'll know what to expect)What an outcomes-based resume actually looks like, with a concrete public health exampleWhy you need a different resume for every track you're applying to — data, policy, program management, evaluationWhat a digital portfolio is, how it differs from a resume, and what to put in it as a new gradHow to use AI to build your resume — and why you need to know what a good resume looks like before you let AI touch itThe six-figure job titles in health economics, outcomes research, and real world evidence that public health grads are overlooked for — and how to get themDr. Des's first public health interview story: what went wrong and what she did differently afterResources MentionedThe Public Health Club — publichealthclub.com (7-day free trial, then $29.99/month; career coaching, mentorship sessions, workshops on demand, job postings, consulting opportunities, 12+ Impact Lead chapters)Resume Development Workshop (two versions on demand) — inside The Public Health ClubBuilding Your Resume with AI Workshop — inside The Public Health Club; includes Dr. Des's custom GPT and Claude skills for resume buildingDigital Portfolio Workshop — inside The Public Health Club (AI-updated version coming soon)Interview 101 Workshop — inside The Public Health Club (revamp in progress)Public Health Pivot Course — inside The Public Health Club; teaches how to translate PH skills into healthcare, biopharma, and adjacent industries using their language and keywordsCareer Coaches inside PHC — office hours available for career and consulting coaching; Khaliah Fleming, Allie Piatkowski, Kristi Brown, Vanessa Da CostaAbout The Dr. Des ShowThe Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.Connect with Dr. Des:Join The Public Health Club: publichealthclub.comInstagram @the_publichealthclubhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join The Public Health Club to access the Public Health Pivot Course to help you pivot into different industries, along with resume development workshops, mentorship and more! https://www.publichealthclub.com/🎙️ Episode SummaryIn this National Public Health Week episode of The Dr. Des Show, we’re diving into one of the most important conversations in the field right now—nontraditional public health careers.If you’ve ever felt boxed into government roles, nonprofit work, or underpaid positions, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible beyond the traditional path.Dr. Des breaks down how public health professionals can leverage their skills in consulting, tech, entrepreneurship, strategy, and beyond to build careers that offer both impact AND income.This episode is your permission slip to think bigger about your career—and your earning potential.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ What “nontraditional public health careers” actually mean✔️ Why traditional public health roles often limit income growth✔️ High-paying, nontraditional career paths you should consider✔️ How to pivot your skills into consulting, business, or tech roles✔️ The mindset shift required to explore new career opportunities✔️ Why public health professionals are uniquely positioned for entrepreneurship✔️ How to align your career with both purpose AND profit💡 Key Takeaways (Career + Income Strategy)You are NOT limited to traditional public health jobsYour skillset is transferable across multiple high-paying industriesNontraditional paths often lead to more flexibility, freedom, and incomeThe biggest barrier is not opportunity—it’s awareness and mindset2025–2026 is a major opportunity window for public health professionals to pivot🧠 Real Talk MomentsThis episode addresses the realities many public health professionals face:Feeling stuck in low-paying rolesLack of exposure to alternative career pathsBurnout in traditional systemsThe fear of stepping outside the “expected” career trackDr. Des challenges listeners to stop playing small and start exploring opportunities that align with both their skills and financial goals.👩🏽‍⚕️ About Dr. DesDr. Desiree Strickland is the Founder & CEO of The Public Health Club, where she helps public health professionals build careers that increase their income, expand their impact, and create long-term wealth.🚀 Resources & Next Steps👉 Join The Public Health Club to learn how to pivot into consulting or entrepreneurship👉 Follow Dr. Des for weekly insights on career growth + income building👉 Share this episode with someone ready to explore nontraditional opportunities⭐ Subscribe to The Dr. Des Show⭐ Leave a review to support more public health professionals⭐ Share this episode with a colleague who needs to hear thisJoin The Public Health Club! https://www.publichealthclub.com/https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

🎥 WATCH THE FREE AI WORKSHOP REPLAYDr. Des walked through her exact AI workflows live — and built a working website on the spot using AI. Watch the full replay free.👉 https://aireplay.publichealthclub.com🚨 The 4-Day AI Intensive starts May 11 — doors close May 64 days live with Dr. Des. Building websites, custom GPTs, AI employees, and the automations she runs every day. Replay included.👉 https://aicourse.publichealthclub.comMost public health professionals are using AI wrong — or not at all. In this episode, Dr. Des breaks down the 3 ways she's using AI to run The Public Health Club and her consulting business: automating her CEO weekly reset, replacing repetitive VA tasks, and building custom GPTs for her team. She also explains why she's moving from ChatGPT to Claude (Anthropic), what an "AI employee" actually is, and how solo public health consultants can run their businesses like a team of ten — without hiring one.IN THIS EPISODE- The 3 main ways Dr. Des uses AI in her public health business- How to automate your weekly CEO reset in 5 minutes- Why she's switching her team from ChatGPT to Claude- The Otter + Claude + Asana workflow for automatic team action items- How to build custom GPTs for email copy and proposal writing- Why "human approver" is non-negotiable in every AI workflowTIMESTAMPS00:00 — Why public health is slow to adopt AI03:30 — Large language models 10108:15 — Use #1: Automating your CEO weekly reset09:00 — Use #2: AI as your virtual assistant14:00 — Otter + Claude + Asana team workflow16:30 — Use #3: Custom GPTs for your team18:15 — Why prompting alone isn't enough21:30 — Inside the AI Intensive23:25 — How to join before May 6RESOURCES- Free AI Workshop Replay: https://aireplay.publichealthclub.com- The AI Intensive: https://aicourse.publichealthclub.com- The Public Health Club: https://publichealthclub.com- 2026 Most In-Demand Consulting Skills Report: https://publichealthclub.com/free-resources- Tools: Claude, ChatGPT, Otter, Asana, Circle, Claude DesignCONNECT WITH DR. DES- https://publichealthclub.com- Instagram @the_publichealthclub—The Dr. Des Show is the go-to podcast for public health career development, consulting, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Dr. Desiree "Dr. Des" Strickland — DrPH, public health CEO, and founder of The Public Health Club.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join The Public Health Club!In this special National Public Health Week episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Desiree Strickland is joined by Dr. Brittny Wells (Doc B) for a powerful conversation on public health careers, consulting, and entrepreneurship.If you’ve ever wondered how to make more money in public health, transition into consulting, or build a career that goes beyond traditional roles, this episode breaks it all down.Dr. Des and Dr. Wells share their real journeys into entrepreneurship, how they started their consulting businesses, and what public health professionals need to know to increase income while still doing meaningful work.This episode is perfect for anyone ready to elevate their public health career, explore consulting, and build long-term financial growth in the field.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ How Dr. Des built a public health consulting business from scratch✔️ Dr. Brittny Wells’ journey into consulting starting during her MPH program✔️ How to turn your public health skills into paid consulting opportunities✔️ Why public health professionals need to focus on income growth + career elevation✔️ The truth about traditional public health jobs vs entrepreneurship✔️ How mentorship, networking, and visibility can open doors in your career✔️ Why now is the BEST time to explore consulting in public health💡 Key TakeawaysPublic health careers don’t have to be limited to low-paying rolesConsulting is one of the fastest ways to increase income in public healthYour existing skills (evaluation, research, program management) are highly valuableEntrepreneurship in public health is growing—and there is space for YOUYou can build a career that aligns with both your passion AND your financial goals👩🏽‍⚕️ About the SpeakersDr. Desiree StricklandFounder & CEO of The Public Health Club + Strickland Health ConsultingHelping public health professionals grow careers, build income, and launch consulting businessesDr. Brittny Wells (Doc B)CEO & Founder of Insight ConsultingPublic health consultant with over a decade of experience in evaluation, research, and business strategy🚀 Resources & Next Steps👉 Join the Public Health Club for career support, networking, and consulting resources👉 Follow Dr. Des for weekly strategies on public health careers + entrepreneurship👉 Share this episode with a public health professional ready to level upIf you enjoyed this episode:⭐ Subscribe to The Dr. Des Show⭐ Leave a review to help more public health professionals find this content⭐ Share this episode with someone ready to increase their income in public healthhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join The Public Health Club: https://www.publichealthclub.com/ In this powerful panel episode of The Dr. Des Show, we dive into one of the most pressing topics facing public health professionals today: job searching in the current political and economic landscape.Featuring a dynamic panel of leaders across policy, academia, and community health, this conversation unpacks what’s really happening behind the scenes in the public health job market—from funding shifts and policy changes to career pivots and emerging opportunities.You’ll hear insights from experts who have worked across federal government, CDC, academia, healthcare systems, and consulting, giving you a well-rounded understanding of where the field is headed—and how to position yourself to succeed.Whether you're navigating layoffs, considering entrepreneurship, or trying to secure your next role, this episode gives you the clarity and strategy you need.👩🏽‍⚕️ Meet the SpeakersDr. Angelica Hardee (Host)Vice President of Community Impact at the American Heart Association, APHA Section Chair, and Adjunct Professor. Leads multi-million dollar community health initiatives across regions.Ryann HillFounder & CEO of Indigo Hill Strategies. Former leader at the Federation of American Hospitals and Scan Health Plan with deep expertise in Medicare, aging policy, and government relations.Dr. Ashley TownesAssistant Professor at Texas Woman’s University and former CDC professional. Expert in social epidemiology, health equity, and Black women’s health, recently transitioned roles in today’s evolving landscape.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ Current public health job market trends and why many professionals feel stuck✔️ How political shifts and funding changes are impacting hiring✔️ Where the money is still flowing in public health (and how to follow it)✔️ Real examples of career transitions from CDC, academia, and consulting✔️ The rise of entrepreneurship and consulting as alternative career paths✔️ How organizations like The Public Health Club are helping professionals land roles✔️ What skills and strategies you need to stay competitive in 2026🚨 Key TakeawaysThe public health job market is not shrinking—it’s shiftingUnderstanding policy and funding flows gives you a major advantageCareer pivots (government → academia → consulting) are becoming more commonEntrepreneurship is no longer optional—it’s a strategic advantageCommunity, networking, and positioning matter more than ever🎯 Who This Episode Is ForPublic health professionals struggling to land jobsMPH graduates navigating today’s competitive marketCDC, government, or nonprofit professionals considering a pivotAspiring public health consultants and entrepreneursAnyone looking to increase income and career stability in public health📌 Resources & Next Steps👉 Join The Public Health Club for job leads, consulting opportunities & career support👉 Connect with today’s speakers on LinkedIn to expand your network👉 Start exploring consulting if traditional roles feel limited💬 Let’s Continue the ConversationWhat trends are YOU seeing in the public health job market right now?Drop your thoughts in the comments or share this episode with a colleague navigating their next career move.🔔 Don’t Miss OutSubscribe to The Dr. Des Show for weekly insights on:✔️ Public health careers✔️ Consulting & entrepreneurship✔️ Income growth strategies✔️ Industry trends & opportunitiesJoin The Public Health Club: https://www.publichealthclub.com/https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Register for the Business of Public Health Summit![April 10, 2026, Atlanta, GA]In this podcast conversation, Dr. Desiree “Dr. Des” Strickland and Dr. Brittny Wells (Doc Bee) explored what it really means to scale a public health consulting business—and why many consultants remain stuck trading time for money. The discussion began by unpacking what solo consulting often looks like in practice: professionals securing contracts while still maintaining full-time roles, with income directly tied to the number of hours they personally work. While consulting can offer flexibility and additional income, the speakers emphasized that it does not automatically eliminate burnout. Without clear boundaries and thoughtful decision-making, consultants can still take on too much work or commit to contracts that do not align with their long-term goals.The conversation then shifted to what scaling actually means for public health consultants. Rather than simply working more, scaling involves increasing impact and revenue without proportionally increasing personal workload. Dr. Des and Doc Bee discussed the signs that a consultant may be ready to scale, including consistent demand, repeat clients, a clearly defined area of expertise, and established credibility. They also highlighted practical ways consulting businesses grow beyond solo work, such as hiring subcontractors, developing structured service offerings, implementing repeatable systems, and strategically expanding the client base. Ultimately, scaling requires an identity shift—from consultant to firm owner, and from operator to leader. The episode concluded by connecting these concepts to the upcoming summit, where attendees will learn the foundational business strategies necessary before attempting to scale a consulting practice.5 Key TakeawaysSolo consulting often means trading time for money. Many consultants increase income by taking on more contracts, but their earning potential remains tied to the hours they personally work.Consulting doesn’t automatically prevent burnout. Without careful consideration of contract scope, workload, and capacity, consultants can still experience the same pressures as traditional employment.Scaling means increasing impact without increasing personal workload. True growth happens when systems, services, and teams allow work to expand beyond one individual’s time.Clear signals show when it’s time to scale. Consistent demand, repeat clients, a defined expertise area, and established credibility often indicate that a consulting practice is ready to grow.Scaling requires an identity shift. Moving from consultant to firm owner means transitioning from doing all the work yourself to leading people, systems, and strategy.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Register for the Business of Public Health Summit![April 10, 2026, Atlanta, GA]In this podcast conversation, Dr. Desiree “Dr. Des” Strickland and Dr. Brittny Wells (Doc Bee) explored how public health careers are evolving—and why the future public health professional will likely rely on multiple income streams rather than a single traditional role. The discussion highlighted broader shifts happening across the field, including funding instability, limited job openings, and a growing reliance on contract-based work. Without focusing on partisan politics, the speakers acknowledged that many organizations are navigating changing budgets and priorities, which has made hiring more competitive and less predictable. As a result, more agencies, nonprofits, and institutions are turning to consultants and short-term contracts to meet their public health needs.Dr. Des and Doc Bee emphasized that diversification is becoming a practical career strategy rather than a luxury. Relying on one role or funding stream can be risky when organizations restructure, programs lose funding, or opportunities for advancement are limited. Drawing from their own professional experiences, they shared examples of how public health professionals can diversify their work across consulting, contract work, advisory roles, teaching and training, speaking engagements, and program evaluation. Together, these roles allow professionals to expand their impact while building more stable and sustainable careers. The conversation concluded by connecting these ideas to the upcoming summit, where speakers from consulting, academia, entrepreneurship, and leadership will share practical strategies for building diversified public health careers.5 Key TakeawaysPublic health careers are becoming more flexible and contract-based. As funding and organizational priorities shift, many agencies are relying more on consultants and short-term contracts to complete public health work.One income stream is often no longer enough. Funding losses, organizational restructuring, and limited advancement opportunities make it increasingly risky to rely on a single role for long-term career stability.Diversification can strengthen both income and impact. Public health professionals can expand their careers through consulting, advisory roles, teaching, speaking, contract work, and evaluation.Your expertise can translate across multiple types of work. Skills developed in traditional public health roles—such as program evaluation, strategy, and community engagement—can support a variety of professional opportunities.Building a diversified career requires intentional positioning. Learning how to package and present your expertise allows you to access opportunities across multiple sectors and income streams.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Register for the Business of Public Health Summit![April 10, 2026, Atlanta, GA]In this podcast conversation, Dr. Desiree “Dr. Des” Strickland and Dr. Brittny Wells(Doc Bee) explored a topic many public health professionals avoid but ultimately need to understand: how to sell consulting services without feeling “salesy.” The discussion reframed sales as an extension of public health practice—identifying problems and offering solutions—rather than persuasion or transactional pitching. Dr. Des and Doc Bee emphasized that most public health professionals are already solving complex problems through program design, evaluation, policy work, and community engagement. The missing piece is not capability, but the ability to clearly communicate that value to organizations that need those solutions.The conversation also unpacked why sales feels uncomfortable for many in the field. Academic culture often discourages self-promotion, and many professionals fear appearing transactional in a mission-driven space. However, the speakers explained that consulting opportunities rarely come from aggressive pitching. Instead, clients typically find consultants through referrals, prior work, reputation, and visibility in the right professional spaces—such as networking events and industry mixers. They also discussed what builds trust with potential clients: clearly defined expertise, confidence in delivery, and professional presence. The episode closed by emphasizing that effective sales is rooted in listening and problem-solving, not convincing, and by connecting these lessons to the upcoming summit, where speakers and sessions will focus on helping public health professionals position themselves so opportunities naturally come their way—including through structured networking and the summit’s pitch competition.5 Key TakeawaysSales in public health is service, not persuasion. At its core, sales is about identifying a problem and presenting a clear solution—something public health professionals already do in their everyday work.Discomfort with sales often comes from academic culture. Many professionals avoid promoting their expertise because public health training discourages self-promotion and frames sales as transactional.Consulting opportunities usually come through relationships. Referrals, prior work, reputation, and being visible in the right spaces—such as professional mixers—are how most clients find consultants.Trust comes from clarity and confidence. Clients are more likely to work with consultants who clearly articulate their expertise, demonstrate professionalism, and communicate how they will deliver results.Focus on fit, not forcing the sale. Effective consulting conversations prioritize listening, understanding the client’s problem, and presenting a practical solution—or referring them to someone else if it’s not the right fit.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Register for the Business of Public Health Summit [Atlanta Ga - April 10th, 2026!]In this podcast episode Dr. Desiree “Dr. Des” Strickland was joined by Dr. Brittny Wells (Doc Bee), public health strategist and founder, for an honest discussion about the business skills public health school never taught—but that professionals need to succeed today. Together, they unpacked a hard truth: most public health programs are designed to prepare students for traditional employment pathways, not entrepreneurship, consulting, or ownership. Even newer programs rarely center business development, leaving a gap between technical expertise and financial sustainability. In today’s political and economic climate—where even highly decorated and experienced professionals are being passed over for competitive federal and state roles—that gap has become more visible and more urgent.Dr. Des and Doc Bee walked through three core skills that can close that gap: sales, positioning, and systems. They reframed sales as relationship-building rooted in trust, not persuasion, and emphasized that public health professionals already possess many of the foundational skills required—they simply need to learn how to articulate and demonstrate value. The conversation challenged attendees to think about the difference between being capable and being known, encouraging them to turn academic assignments into work samples and to use their voice strategically, both online and in rooms that matter. They also discussed the importance of systems and operations in protecting time, scaling impact, and moving from reactive work to sustainable business practices. The episode concluded by tying these themes to the upcoming summit, where experienced consultants, founders, and public health leaders will teach participants how to operationalize these skills in practical, actionable ways.5 Key TakeawaysPublic health programs train employees—not business owners. Without business skill development, even highly qualified professionals can struggle to create stable, well-compensated careers.Sales is about explaining value through trust. Relationship-based sales aligns naturally with public health because the field is already grounded in credibility, integrity, and community trust.Positioning shapes opportunity. Being capable is not the same as being visible. How you describe your work determines whether decision-makers see you as an expert or just another applicant.Your training can become your portfolio. Projects, evaluations, and academic assignments can be reframed as work samples that demonstrate readiness for consulting or contract work.Systems create sustainability. Structured processes and operational clarity allow you to move beyond a one-person hustle and build a business—or career—that protects your time and energy.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join the Public Health Club In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Desiree “Dr. Des” Strickland challenges the narrow narratives that often define public health career paths. Speaking directly to professionals who feel boxed into government, nonprofit, or academic roles, Dr. Des opens the door to biopharmaceutical careers that meaningfully align with public health training—while also offering expanded influence, competitive compensation, and long-term growth.This episode goes beyond simply naming alternative roles. Dr. Des focuses on the strategic repositioning required to move into biopharma, emphasizing that success is less about acquiring new skills and more about learning how to translate existing public health experience into industry-relevant language. Listeners are guided through how to reframe their work so it resonates with hiring managers, recruiters, and cross-functional teams in the biopharmaceutical space.Dr. Des breaks down three specific biopharma roles—Real World Evidence Scientist, Medical Science Liaison, and Patient Advocacy & Engagement Lead—explaining what each role actually involves and why public health professionals are well suited for them. A recurring theme throughout the episode is intentional preparation over blind applying. Rather than abandoning public health values, Dr. Des shows how professionals can pivot strategically while maintaining their commitment to equity, evidence, and population-level impact.5 Key TakeawaysPublic health careers extend beyond traditional sectors, with biopharma offering roles that value public health expertise when it is positioned effectively.Real World Evidence roles heavily leverage public health skills such as study design, data analysis, and translating findings into actionable insights.Medical Science Liaison roles are not sales positions, but strategic scientific communication roles that reward strong stakeholder engagement and data storytelling.Patient Advocacy and Engagement roles closely align with public health values like equity, access, and lived experience, but require industry-specific framing.The biggest barrier to entering biopharma is not lack of qualifications, but failure to translate public health experience into outcomes-, evidence-, and strategy-focused language.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join the Public Health Club In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Desiree “Dr. Des” Strickland breaks down one of the most misunderstood—and anxiety-producing—topics for new and aspiring public health consultants: the Request for Proposals (RFP). Using clear, accessible language and practical examples, Dr. Des explains what an RFP actually is, how it differs from an RFQ, and why understanding that difference matters before you ever decide to apply.Rather than treating RFPs as paperwork hurdles, this episode reframes them as strategic decision-making tools. Dr. Des walks listeners through how to read an RFP with intention—evaluating fit, capacity, and opportunity—so consultants can make confident, informed choices instead of chasing every available contract.Using a real public health RFP from the Connecticut Health Foundation as a case study, Dr. Des unpacks each major section, including the scope of services, timeline, budget, proposal requirements, and submission details. She highlights what experienced funders are really asking for, where applicants often misstep, and why strong proposals are built on demonstrated expertise—not potential. By the end of the episode, listeners walk away with a practical framework for evaluating RFPs, positioning their value clearly, and avoiding common mistakes that cost otherwise qualified consultants the opportunity.5 Key TakeawaysAn RFP functions like a job description for consultants, outlining a defined problem and expected outcomes while relying on your expertise to shape the solution.RFPs and RFQs are not interchangeable: RFPs focus on strategy and approach, while RFQs prioritize pricing for already-defined work.The scope of services is the most critical section of any RFP and should be reviewed first to assess true fit based on experience and expertise.Timelines and budgets are decision tools, not just details—they determine feasibility, pricing, and whether collaboration or subcontracting is needed.Strictly following proposal instructions (format, page limits, deadlines) is non-negotiable and often determines whether a proposal is reviewed or rejected.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join the Public Health ClubIn this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Desiree “Dr. Des” Strickland addresses one of the most common questions she hears from public health professionals: Where are the consulting contracts—and is there really money in public health?Drawing from her lived experience as a public health consultant and firm owner, Dr. Des breaks down where consulting opportunities actually exist, the different forms they take, and how professionals should think strategically about pursuing contracts—especially when they are new to consulting. She explains why many people feel stuck or discouraged, and how the issue is often not a lack of opportunities, but a lack of clarity around where to look and how to position themselves.The conversation contrasts curated, non-federal consulting opportunities—such as those available through professional communities—with federal contracting pathways, including subcontracting. Dr. Des walks listeners through how these opportunities differ, what makes each accessible, and why understanding the landscape is essential for long-term consulting success.By the end of the episode, listeners gain a clearer framework for navigating consulting pathways, approaching contracts with intention, and writing proposals that align with the expectations of different audiences—moving from overwhelm to strategy.Key TakeawaysPublic health consulting opportunities exist across nonprofits, foundations, and community-based organizations, not just within federal systems.Curated, non-federal contracts are often more accessible for solo consultants and small teams and can serve as a strong entry point into consulting.Federal contracting is a long-term strategy that requires preparation, relationship-building, and often begins through subcontracting rather than prime contracts.Subcontracting provides a lower-risk way to gain experience, build past performance, and get paid while learning the federal contracting landscape.Successful proposals are audience-specific—community organizations respond to clear, value-driven language, while federal opportunities require more technical and structured writing.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join the CEO CircleEnrollment Closes February 6th, 2026 and will not open again until next year!In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des took listeners behind the scenes of the Public Health CEO Circle, explaining why it exists, how it works, and who it is designed to serve. Drawing from her own experience as a public health entrepreneur, Dr. Des reflected on the isolation many public health business owners face when trying to scale impact-driven work in spaces that don’t understand grants, contracts, government systems, or equity-centered missions. The episode centered on the importance of being in the right room—one where CEO-level strategy, revenue conversations, and long-term planning are normalized rather than avoided.Throughout the episode, Dr. Des walked through the structure of the CEO Circle, including quarterly expert-led workshops, ongoing strategy sessions she personally facilitates, the CEO Book Club, and monthly accountability meetings. She emphasized that the Circle is intentionally designed as a year-long commitment, not a drop-in community, to support sustained growth and real business building. For listeners considering entrepreneurship or already running public health-focused businesses, the session clarified how the CEO Circle differs from general professional development spaces by focusing squarely on operations, scaling, and leadership at the CEO level.5 Key TakeawaysThe Public Health CEO Circle was created to meet a specific gap: public health entrepreneurs need business strategy support that understands social impact, equity work, and complex systems.Being in consistent community with other CEOs helps normalize strategic thinking, revenue planning, and scaling conversations that are often missing in public health spaces.The CEO Circle combines Dr. Des’s leadership with external experts in finance, marketing, legal, and operations to provide well-rounded, practical guidance.Learning inside the Circle is application-focused, from the CEO Book Club to hands-on workshops and tools members can immediately use in their businesses.Monthly accountability meetings foster real CEO-to-CEO dialogue, collaboration, and problem-solving beyond surface-level check-ins.Sign up for Public Health Clubhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Links Mentioned:Join CEO BootcampGet on the CEO Circle WaitlistJoin the Public Health ClubIn this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how I scaled my public health business in 2025—what changed, what didn’t, and why shifting into true CEO leadership led to a 118% increase in revenue.This wasn’t about grinding harder or adding more to my plate. It was about making a strategic decision to stop operating like an employee inside my own business and start leading it like a CEO. Once that shift happened, the growth followed.I also share why I created CEO Bootcamp and who it’s actually for. If you attended the Public Health CEO Summit, this episode explains why Bootcamp is the next step. If you’re still casually exploring entrepreneurship, I’m honest about why this may not be the right season yet.We talk strategy, AI implementation in public health businesses, burnout prevention, and what it really takes to scale—whether your business is full-time or currently a side hustle.This episode is for public health professionals who are serious about building sustainable businesses, increasing revenue, and leading with intention in 2025.Key Topics Covered -How to scale a public health business in 2025-CEO vs employee mindset in entrepreneurship-Public health business strategy and revenue growth-Avoiding burnout while scaling a service-based business-Using AI to support business operations and decision-making-Who CEO Bootcamp is for (and who should wait)Listeners will walk away able to:Understand the mindset shift required to scale a public health businessIdentify CEO-level strategies that directly impact revenue growthRecognize how burnout shows up when entrepreneurs operate without systemsSee how AI can be applied practically in public health businessesDecide whether they are ready to operate as a CEO or need more foundation firsthttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Register for the CEO Summit: https://www.publichealthclub.com/ceo-summit-2026Upgrade to VIp & Access the CEO Bootcamp: https://www.publichealthclub.com/ceo-bootcamp-welcome-1a456e-1-1Kit For Email Newsletters: https://partners.kit.com/5hnworu6rcadIn this first episode back for the new year, Dr. Des breaks down how public health professionals can build multiple revenue streams without creating another full-time job for themselves.This episode is for consultants, entrepreneurs, and aspiring CEOs who want to increase income, create time freedom, and scale impact — all while staying rooted in public health and social impact work.Dr. Des shares how she turned one consulting business into several revenue streams and walks through practical, realistic ways you can do the same in 2026.You’ll Learn:Why your consulting business should be your anchor, not your only incomeSimple ways to add revenue streams without overcomplicating your businessHow newsletters, digital products, and speaking fit naturally into public healthThe role of marketing, systems, and AI in scaling sustainablyHow to stop operating like an employee and start thinking like a CEOIf you’re ready to work smarter, protect your time, and grow your income — this episode is for you.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join The Public Health ClubCEO Circle Waitlist In this powerful and personal episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des opens up about what it really looked like to start and grow a public health consulting business at the exact same time she became a mother. From launching her business while seven months pregnant to landing a $40K consulting contract days after giving birth, this episode takes you behind the scenes of entrepreneurship, motherhood, resilience, and building systems that work.If you’ve ever tried to build a business, juggle a demanding public health career, raise kids, or simply keep yourself afloat while pursuing your purpose — this episode will speak directly to you.This is honest, funny, vulnerable, and deeply relatable for every public health professional who’s trying to “do it all” while still becoming the highest version of themselves.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ The reality of starting a public health consulting business while pregnant✔️ The day everything went wrong during her public health CEO Bootcamp✔️ How entrepreneurship and motherhood grew side-by-side✔️ The importance of support systems in business AND motherhood✔️ The mindset shifts that changed everythinghttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join The CEO Circle Waitlist Join the Public Health Club In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des takes you inside the CEO Circle book club and breaks down her biggest takeaways from Rewrite Your Rules by the creator of AfroTech and founder/CEO of Blavity.This isn’t a “was the book good or bad?” type of review. Instead, Dr. Des shares how this book completely shifted the way she thinks about:Her purpose principle as a public health entrepreneurWhat a truly wealthy life looks like (beyond a six-figure job or seven-figure business)Why knowing your numbers and KPIs is non-negotiableHow to build a team and SOPs so your business can run without youThe reality of fear of success and rewriting the rules of your life—again and againIf you’re a public health professional, consultant, or CEO who is tired of being “the glue” holding everything together, this episode will give you mindset shifts and practical strategies you can implement right away.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode1. The Power of a Purpose PrincipleWhy you can’t say yes to everything just because it’s a “good opportunity”2. Wealthy Life vs. Rich LifeWhy a six-figure job or multi–six figure business doesn’t automatically equal a wealthy life3. Why You Must Know Your Numbers (KPIs)How public health professionals understand data for programs—but often ignore it in their businesses4. Building Your Team Like a CEO (Not an Employee)What it feels like to be “the glue” in your business—and why that’s not sustainable 5. Step-Change Goals (Not Small, Safe Ones)What “step-change goals” are and why they matter(Example: Not “I want to hit $1M,” but “What if I aim for $5M or $10M?”)6. Work–Life Integration (Because Balance Is a Myth)Why “work–life balance” wasn’t working for Dr. Des7. Fear of Success & Rewriting Your Rules (Again and Again)Why many entrepreneurs quietly fear success, not just failurehttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Learn More About Black Friday: https://www.publichealthclub.com/blackfridayIn this special episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des breaks down all 5 days of her Black Friday deals designed specifically for public health professionals who want to increase their income, grow their consulting business, or advance their career in 2025 and beyond.Whether you’re exploring entrepreneurship, trying to pivot into a higher-paying career path, or looking for templates and strategy guides to work smarter—not harder—this episode gives you a full walkthrough of what’s included, who it’s for, and how to get early access before the deals expire.This is the only Black Friday sale of the year, and each deal is available for 24 hours only.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ The full breakdown of all 5 Black Friday dealsIncluding:The Public Health Power Bundle (LinkedIn Brand Guide + ChatGPT Resume Guide + Entrepreneurship Guide)The Entrepreneurship Power Bundle (consulting templates, capability statement, CEO Playbook & more)The Digital Course Workshop (50% off)The Public Health Club membership dealsCyber Monday repeat deals & new bonuses✔️ How to choose the best Black Friday deal for your 2025 goalsIf your goal is:A higher-paying public health jobA new consulting businessA salary increaseA personal brand makeoverConsistent consulting clientsBreaking into non-traditional careers—Dr. Des walks you through what to grab.✔️ How to use ChatGPT + these digital products to customize your entire strategyIncluding:How to upload guides into ChatGPTHow to turn them into personalized career or business plansHow to build posts, resumes, or portfolios from all included templates✔️ Why 2025–2026 is a MAJOR opportunity for public health professionalsDr. Des explains:Shifting funding patternsThe rise of consulting demandDemand for digital skillsWhy LinkedIn visibility matters more than everhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Sign Up For Our Black Friday Takeover Join The Public Health Club In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des fires up every public health professional feeling discouraged or stuck in this wild job market. If you’ve been applying to hundreds of roles with no response — it’s NOT you. The market is tougher, more saturated, and more competitive than ever… but there ARE strategies that work.Dr. Des breaks down the three most powerful ways to stand out in 2025–2026:✔️ Building a digital portfolio that proves your impact✔️ Showing up as a thought leader on LinkedIn (without dancing, pointing, or being an “influencer”)✔️ Networking strategically — not awkwardly or aimlesslyPlus, she shares real examples from her own career, why visibility matters more than ever, and how recruiters actually find candidates today.This is a high-energy, practical, note-taking episode that will help you take control of your job search — and stop relying on luck or hope.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

📚 Mentioned in This EpisodeDigital Course Workshop (available inside The Public Health Club)The Public Health Club Free Black Friday waitlist (for 50% off the course workshop)KIT.com for email list buildingIn this episode, Dr. Des goes deeper into what it really takes to build a profitable digital course as a public health professional. After launching several courses—including her signature program Subcontracting to Six Figures, which doubled enrollment during its most recent launch—she breaks down the business, marketing, and psychology behind course creation.Too many public health professionals create brilliant courses that change lives… but bring in little to no income. Why? Because we approach course creation like a program manager instead of a CEO.This episode helps you shift that.💡 What You’ll Learn✔️ Why your first course didn’t sell (even if it was amazing)✔️ The CEO Mindset You Must Have Before Creating a Course✔️ Building an Audience Before Building the Course✔️ Marketing Psychology for Public Health Pros✔️ How to Price Your Digital Course Confidently✔️ The Behind-the-Scenes Story of Subcontracting to Six Figures✔️ Low Ticket vs. High Ticket Courses✔️ Evergreen Courses vs. Live Courseshttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join The Public Health ClubSign Up For Black Friday Deals!In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des pulls back the curtain on why so many public-health professionals stay stuck — not because they lack skill, but because their resumes don’t showcase it.She shares her personal story of reworking her resume (and helping others do the same), common mistakes most professionals make, and the small changes that can drastically improve your callbacks.You’ll learn:Why your resume alone won’t get you hired in today’s marketHow to translate your skills into measurable accomplishmentsThe power of quantifying your impactWhy volunteer work and side projects countResume formatting rules that help you beat applicant-tracking systems (ATS)How to leverage ChatGPT the right way for resume writingHow the Public Health Club’s Resume Workshop and mentorship sessions can accelerate your job search🔗 Join the Public Health Club for mentorship, resume templates, and on-demand career workshops: PublicHealthClub.com🎧 Listen and take notes—then get ready to apply what you learn!https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

What if your data could speak for itself—and move funders, partners, and policymakers to act? In this conversation with Dr. Zenobia Bryant, Founder of Black Health, Black Wealth, we explore how to transform public health data into stories that create measurable impact.From designing better surveys to increasing community trust, Zenobia breaks down her Bridge Method—a framework that connects the gap, bridge, and arrival of every program story. She shares how consultants and health leaders can:Design surveys that actually match their missionAdd context to quantitative data with community voiceUse creative visuals (beyond bar charts) in Canva and FlourishImprove participation with transparency and trustPackage your expertise as a consultant without burnoutWhether you lead a program, run a small firm, or simply want your data to do more, this episode gives you practical tools to make metrics matter.Subscribe to Zenobia's Newsletter: https://www.blackhealthblackwealth.org/subscribeCheck out Her Website: https://www.blackhealthblackwealth.org/https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

In this candid episode, Dr. Des shares what she and her team learned after reviewing 500+ internship applications for The Public Health Club. If you’re a recent grad, current student, or anyone applying for early-career roles, this is your cheat code. We cover the fast ways reviewers narrow a massive stack—and how to make sure you land in the interview pile, not the reject pile.Want help building your resume, portfolio, and interview strategy? Join The Public Health Club for workshops, on-demand trainings, and real-world feedback.You’ll learn:Why typos and grammar are instant filters—and easy ways to prevent themHow to avoid one-sentence answers and write concise, relevant responsesThe right way to use AI (and the red flags that got apps tossed)How to pick one focus area (and argue it well) instead of checking everythingWhy honesty about memberships and experience matters (yes, we check)How to research the org before you apply (and what we can tell when you don’t)Interview basics: check your email, respond fast, be on time, and communicateWhat to upload as additional documents (and what not to bother with)Why employers look at your LinkedIn even if you didn’t submit itThe kind of digital portfolio that actually tips decisions in your favorhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Enrollment For Subcontracting to 6 Figures Closes Friday (10/3/25)...It doesn't open again until 365 days from now....bet on yourself..>>Enroll HereIn this episode of The Dr. Des Show, I’m joined by Clishe Larke,M.Ed., PMP, PSMI founder of LC Business Services LLC and alum of Subcontracting to Six Figures. With a background in education, Clishe never imagined herself as a consultant — but her pivot into project management changed everything. After submitting 30+ proposals, she finally landed her first $8,000 consulting contract with the City of Lansing, opening the door to even bigger opportunities.We talk about:Her transition from education into entrepreneurshipHow she leveraged project management skills to build a consulting businessThe persistence it took to get that first “yes” (after 30+ proposals!)Why small contracts can be the launchpad to major dealsHow she’s now helping small businesses and nonprofits adopt AI + automation in their workflowsIf you’ve been wondering whether your current skills can translate into consulting — this story proves it’s possible.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Enroll in Subcontracting to 6 FiguresIn this alumni spotlight, Dr. Des sits down with Ghecora Boyd, Founder & CEO of the Public Health Nurse Collaborative (PHN Collaborative) and graduate of Subcontracting to Six Figures. Ghecora shares how she launched PHN Collaborative just weeks after finishing the course, why she intentionally bridges nursing, public health, and patient experience strategy, and the wins she’s seen so far—from abstract reviews for national/international conferences to RFP collaborations sparked through the community. You’ll hear practical advice for nurses exploring public health consulting, what clinical skills translate seamlessly, and how to build momentum on LinkedIn without waiting for “perfect.” Finally, Dr. Des closes with a clear call: if you’re ready to build your consulting business, enroll before doors close (or join the waitlist if you’re listening later). What you’ll learnHow to combine nursing, public health, and patient experience into a differentiated consulting offer. The course modules and decisions that helped Ghecora package her business model (LLC vs. other structures, niche clarity, early strategy). Wins post-course: conference abstract reviews, expanded network, and RFP collaboration opportunities through the Club. Practical steps for nurses pivoting into public health consulting (where to look beyond hospital settings, how to “bridge” skills). LinkedIn momentum: announcing your business, engaging intentionally, and inviting collaboration—without waiting until it’s perfect. Mindset + operations: time-blocking, building support systems, and growing while in a DNP program.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Enroll In Subcontracting to 6 Figures Before Doors Close: https://www.publichealthclub.com/courseWhat happens when two public health consultants meet inside a community, build systems, and refuse to quit? For Jamie Zimmerman, DrPH(c), MPH, CHES (Faithful Public Health Consulting), and Prabhneet Girn, MPH, LSSGB (Arize Care Consulting), the answer was a $67,000 public health contract.In this episode, they share how they connected through The Public Health Club and the Subcontracting to Six Figures course, teamed up to create a two-person proposal machine, and turned rejections into fuel for the next win. You’ll hear the exact tools and systems they used to streamline RFP submissions, why consistency beats perfection, and how building visibility online led to opportunities—even without an RFP.Whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale, this episode proves that partnerships and persistence can pay off big in public health consulting.👉 Enrollment for Subcontracting to Six Figures is now open—join the cohort and access alumni-led trainings like the RFP Writing Workshop featured in this episode.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Enroll In Subcontracting to 6 Figures & Let's Land Your First Client: https://www.publichealthclub.com/courseWhat does owning a cleaning business have to do with public health consulting? For Shambria Davis, the answer was everything. In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Shambria—an alum of Subcontracting to Six Figures and co-founder of S&R Consulting, LLC—shares how she applied what she learned to land paid speaking opportunities, turn her employer into a client, and grow her consulting business with confidence.You’ll hear the exact steps she took to translate everyday experience into consulting wins, why RFPs became a roadmap for her business, and how mindset shifts opened the door to new opportunities. If you’ve ever wondered whether your skills are “enough” to start consulting, this success story proves that you can create impact and income—on your own terms.🎧 Tune in now and get inspired to bet on yourself. 🚀 Enrollment for Subcontracting to Six Figures is open—learn the blueprint and join the community that helped Shambria build her success.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Learn More About Subcontracting to 6 Figures- https://www.publichealthclub.com/courseIn this episode, Dr. Des takes you inside her 5-week course, Subcontracting to Six Figures—built for mid- to senior-level public health professionals with ~5+ years of direct experience who want to start (or formalize) a consulting business and land their first client. You’ll hear the full module breakdown, how the weekly live Q&As work, what “lifetime access” really means, why you don’t need a website to get started, and exactly how students learn to find contracts, get subcontracted by established firms, and write winning proposals. Enrollment opens September 25 and will only be open for about a week—then not again until next September.Key takeawaysYou don’t need a website to start; you do need a strong capabilities statement, digital portfolio, and sharp LinkedIn.Learn where the money flows (state/global contracts and subcontracting with firms) and how to become visible to prime contractors.Proposal writing is a skill you can master—often in 2–5 pages—if you hit the right components and price with confidence.Weekly live Q&As + lifetime access mean you get real-time coaching now and come back for refreshers later.Proof of possibility: Dr. Des earned $135K on the side in a year before going full-time—this course reverse-engineers that path.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:Public Health Consulting Pricing Guide – Public Health ClubJoin the free “Building Your Public Health Consulting Business” Workshop on September 25th.In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des breaks down exactly how to start and grow a consulting business while keeping your full-time job. From checking your employee handbook and avoiding conflicts of interest, to managing your time, subcontracting tasks, and pricing your services confidently—this episode is your roadmap to building consulting income without sacrificing financial stability. Dr. Des shares her own journey of running multiple side hustles, growing her consulting practice alongside her career, and finally transitioning full-time into entrepreneurship. Whether you want a steady side hustle or dream of eventually going full time, this episode gives you the strategies, tools, and mindset to make it happen.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why consulting is the perfect side hustle for public health professionals.How to use your 9-to-5 paycheck to fund and stabilize your consulting business.The importance of checking your employee handbook to stay ethical and compliant.Practical time management strategies (like time-blocking and email scheduling).How and when to subcontract work to protect your time and energy.Smart ways to price your services and avoid undercharging.Tips for those who need to move in silence while keeping their day job.How Dr. Des knew she was financially and mentally ready to go full-time.Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:Public Health Consulting Pricing Guide – Public Health ClubJoin the free “Building Your Public Health Consulting Business” Workshop on September 25th.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join the FREE Public Health Consulting Workshop on 9/25/25 In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, I get real about what it means to be a consultant — and how I turned a job rejection into a thriving consulting business. After being told I didn’t have “enough consulting experience,” I had to step back and redefine what a consultant actually is. Spoiler: it’s not about the title, it’s about solving problems, managing projects, and delivering results.I share:My story of being rejected from a consulting firm job and why that moment changed everything.The truth about what separates an employee from a consultant (hint: it’s not as different as you think).Practical steps to start positioning yourself as a consultant — even if you’ve never had a client before.Why you don’t need permission to start, and how I landed my first $40K contract while pregnant.The mindset shifts and strategic moves that helped me grow my consulting business beyond a side hustle.If you’ve ever doubted whether you’re “ready” to consult, this episode will show you that you already have the skills — you just need to claim them.👉 Stay tuned until the end where I share details about my free workshop: Building Your Public Health Consulting Business happening on September 25th.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Join the waitlist for Dr. Des’s upcoming Digital Course Workshop Join the Public Health Club to access the Digital Portfolio Workshop.In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des gets real about her journey with digital courses — from making just $3K in two years with her first course to hitting $40K in one year with her Subcontracting to Six Figures program. She shares everything she learned the hard way, including why messaging matters more than you think, why you should validate your idea before you build, and why going live (at least at first) is a game-changer.Whether you’re dreaming of building a course or you’ve tried before and it flopped, this episode will help you figure out what works, what doesn’t, and how to sell your course without burning out or getting lost in fancy tech.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The mistakes Dr. Des made with her first course (and how to avoid them).The one thing that transformed her course sales from $3K to $40K.How to figure out if people will actually pay for your course before you build it.Why you need a mix of live and prerecorded content to maximize engagement (and protect your time).How to use lead magnets and email marketing to sell your course consistently.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:The Public Health Club – Get access to weekly updated consulting opportunities, digital portfolio workshops, and the full Public Health Side Hustles Workshop. [Join here]Digital Portfolio Workshop – Learn how to package your experience to attract consulting and freelancing clients. (Available Inside the Public Health Club)Academia Career Clinic Replay – Perfect for anyone looking to become an adjunct professor. (Available Inside the Public Health Club)You don’t have to quit your full-time job to increase your income in public health. In this episode, Dr. Des shares five proven public health side hustles that can help you diversify your income, build your expertise, and create new career opportunities. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a senior-level professional, these strategies will help you leverage your skills and experience to bring in extra income—right now!Dr. Des breaks down the pros, cons, and real-life earning potential of consulting, digital courses, social media branding, adjunct teaching, and freelancing on platforms like Upwork. Plus, she shares insider tips on where to find opportunities, how to package your skills, and why you should stop overthinking and start taking action today.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why public health professionals should have multiple income streamsHow Dr. Des landed a $40K consulting contract while working full timeThe easiest way to get started with digital courses (and why you should start simple)How social media branding and partnerships can add $3K–$20K+ in extra monthly incomeHow to land adjunct professor or guest lecturer roles (even with no teaching background)How to find freelancing opportunities on Upwork (and what projects are hot right now)Additional side hustle ideas—toolkits, templates, writing gigs, health coaching, and moreResources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:The Public Health Club – Get access to weekly updated consulting opportunities, digital portfolio workshops, and the full Public Health Side Hustles Workshop. [Join here]Digital Portfolio Workshop – Learn how to package your experience to attract consulting and freelancing clients.Academia Career Clinic Replay – Perfect for anyone looking to become an adjunct professor.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Building Your Linkedin Brand GuideThe Public Health CEO CircleThe Public Health ClubAre you juggling a full-time career while building your business? In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, I share the real, unfiltered truth about managing both lanes without losing your mind—or your health. From setting boundaries and protecting your time to treating your 9–5 as your first investor, I walk you through the exact strategies I used to build my consulting business while working in corporate public health.Whether you’re testing the waters of entrepreneurship or deciding if it’s time to leap full-time into your business, this episode will help you:What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The CEO Mindset at Work: How to treat your 9–5 as your first investor and leverage it for skills, certifications, and startup capital.Defining Your Seasons: Why it’s okay to let work or business take the lead at different times—and how to plan for those shifts.Protecting Your Time: Practical tips for time-blocking business hours and building boundaries that stick.Visibility That Works: How to build credibility online without announcing that you’re leaving your job.Knowing When to Pivot: Questions to ask yourself before deciding whether to climb the corporate ladder or jump fully into entrepreneurship.If you’ve ever wondered whether you can truly thrive in both worlds, this episode is your blueprint.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

📆Register for the Free Public Health CEO Bootcamp (July 14–16)✅Join The Public Health Club for workshops, RFPs, and communityIn this episode of The Dr. Des Show, we dive deep into the three non-negotiable metrics every public health entrepreneur should be tracking weekly—Revenue, Reach, and Relationships. Dr. Des breaks down exactly why these “3 R’s” are the foundation of sustainable growth, and how tracking them separates CEOs from freelancers.Whether you're consulting, teaching, running a membership, or selling digital products—this episode gives you a strategic lens to lead like a CEO and scale your impact without burnout.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why knowing your revenue down to the week matters (and what to do with that data)How to build intentional reach—beyond social media likes and into actual leadsThe power of relationship capital and how to turn past colleagues into paid opportunitiesTips to avoid burnout by acting like a CEO, not just a founderWhy your next client is likely sitting in your inboxResources Mentioned:Register for the Free Public Health CEO Bootcamp (July 14–16)Join The Public Health Club for workshops, RFPs, and communityhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

🚨 The FREE Public Health CEO Bootcamp, happening July 14–16.It’s packed with strategy, structure, and step-by-step guidance to help you lead your business like a true CEO.👉 Join the bootcamp now: https://www.publichealthclub.com/ceo-bootcampIn this high-impact episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des dives deep into one of the most important transitions for public health entrepreneurs—the shift from founder to CEO. If you're feeling overwhelmed, juggling every role, and chasing every opportunity, this episode is for you.Dr. Des outlines key mindset and operational changes you must make to sustainably grow your business, reclaim your time, and lead with clarity. She shares the lessons she’s applied in her own business and breaks down the exact strategies, systems, and structure needed to elevate from day-to-day hustle to CEO-level strategy.You’ll learn how to:Recognize when you're stuck in founder mode (and why it leads to burnout)Schedule a consistent “CEO Day” to focus on high-level growthBuild infrastructure: systems, automation, and client management toolsDelegate with confidence by knowing “enough to be dangerous”Market your business daily (because posting once a week won’t cut it)Set up visibility and lead generation strategies through LinkedIn and beyondProtect your time while scaling using tools like ChatGPT, Honeybook, and OpusClipThink about ROI when hiring contractors or building a teamAnchor your business around a signature offer to attract ideal clientsMake strategic, not scarcity-based, decisions🔥 Plus, she shares a personal breakdown of how hiring an email marketing manager transformed her workflow and revenue strategy—and how you can assess which role or system to implement next.💥 Don’t Miss:🚨 The FREE Public Health CEO Bootcamp, happening July 14–16. It’s packed with strategy, structure, and step-by-step guidance to help you lead your business like a true CEO.👉 Join the bootcamp now: https://www.publichealthclub.com/ceo-bootcamphttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

📌 Links Mentioned:👉🏽 Join the FREE Public Health CEO Bootcamp (July 14-16, 2025!)👉🏽 Join the waitlist for the Public Health CEO Circle👉🏽 Become a member of The Public Health ClubIn this motivating and raw episode, Dr. Des unpacks what it actually means to become a Public Health CEO—not just by filing for an LLC, but by embodying the mindset, systems, and strategy of a true visionary leader. From employee to entrepreneur, she shares the real steps, mindset shifts, and growth lessons that shaped her transition into the CEO of a thriving public health business.Whether you're a side hustler, aspiring consultant, or already running a business, this episode will empower you to lead, grow, and scale on your own terms.Key Themes Covered:🔹 CEO Mindset Shift Dr. Des discusses the inner work of becoming a CEO, including battling imposter syndrome, reclaiming your time, and learning how to charge your worth.🔹 Impact AND Income Why it’s not selfish to want both—and how public health entrepreneurs can build thriving businesses that do both well.🔹 From Employee to Visionary Leader A candid look at how thinking like an employee held her back, and how stepping into CEO mode changed everything.🔹 Delusional Confidence + Consistency The two underrated traits every founder needs to succeed—and why starting messy is still starting.🔹 Leading Teams & Building Systems From doing everything herself to planning for full-time hires, Dr. Des shares what she’s learned about delegation, leadership, and building scalable systems.🔹 Avoiding Burnout by Saying No One of the hardest but most necessary CEO skills: setting boundaries that protect your mission and energy.🔹 Marketing as a CEO Why visibility isn’t optional. Learn how she thinks about social media not as an influencer—but as a business owner with a message.🔹 The CEO Circle is Coming Get the inside scoop on the upcoming Public Health CEO Circle—a premium space for public health entrepreneurs ready to scale.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

In this powerhouse episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des delivers her most essential advice for recent MPH graduates navigating the overwhelming world of public health careers. If you're in grad school, newly graduated, or still unsure how to position yourself for the job you really want, this episode is your game plan. From clarifying your ideal career path to building a resume that gets noticed, Dr. Des shares clear steps and real talk on how to stop applying emotionally and start applying strategically.You’ll learn how to:Clarify your public health career directionWrite a resume that reflects your actual impactApply smarter—not harderLeverage LinkedIn like a professionalGet in the rooms where career-shifting conversations are happeningWhether you’re just starting or you’ve been stuck sending out 100 resumes with no bites—this is the strategy session you didn’t know you needed.Mentioned in this Episode:Take the Free Public Health Ideal Career QuizJoin the Public Health Clubhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Ever hire someone in your business and realize real quick that you jumped the gun? In this transparent and educational episode, Dr. Des takes us back to her very first hire as a new entrepreneur—when she brought on a social media manager without a clear strategy or ROI in mind. The result? A total flop.But as always, there's growth in the glow-up.Dr. Des breaks down her early hiring mistakes, what she would do differently, and how her hiring process evolved from reactive to strategic across Young, Black & Professional, Strickland Health Consulting, and The Public Health Club. She also shares what types of roles helped her scale without burnout—and how she determines whether a hire is worth it.Whether you’re making your first hire or expanding your team, this episode is a must-listen.🔑 What You’ll Learn:Why hiring without a plan or metrics will drain your time and moneyThe difference between hiring for visibility (like social media) vs. profitability (like email marketing)How to evaluate whether a role will bring in a real return on investment (ROI)What CEO-level tasks only you should be doing—and what to delegateThe power of hiring contractors over full-time employees when scaling leanWhy understanding your business model (B2B vs. B2C) changes who you should hireHow community and networking can lead to your next best hire🛠️ Resources Mentioned:The Public Health Club: www.publichealthclub.comKit.com – Dr. Des’s email marketing platformhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

Access the Full Best Practices in Apply to RFPs Workshop in The Public Health ClubIn this powerhouse episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des demystifies the process of applying to RFPs (Requests for Proposals) and shares her top three tips for consultants who are ready to land high-value contracts. Whether you're just starting your public health consulting journey or looking to refine your strategy, this episode provides the blueprint you need to stop overthinking and start applying. Learn how to choose the right RFPs, get organized, build a digital portfolio, and show up like a real business—even as a side hustle.🔑 Key Takeaways:1. Only Apply to RFPs You Can Deliver OnDon't waste time applying to every opportunity—read the scope carefully.Ask: Can I do this well? Can I prove it with work samples or references?You need at least 5 years of real experience in the area—not just school experience.2. Get Organized Before You ApplyUse tools like Google Drive or Notion to streamline your files and RFP documents.Prepare a digital portfolio that includes your past work, evaluation samples, reports, and infographics.Build templates for your organizational background, budget, and scope of work to reduce burnout.3. Show Up Like a Real BusinessEven if you don’t have an LLC yet, operate professionally: set up your EIN, sam.gov registration, and contracts.Always use partnership agreements for subcontractors—even friends.Think profit: Dr. Brittany James recommends a 40% profit margin to make it worth it.💡 Bonus Insights:Start with one niche (e.g., evaluation, training development, health equity) and build your portfolio around it.Use LinkedIn to market your services daily and increase your visibility.Join the Public Health Club for on-demand workshops like “Best Practices for Applying to RFPs” and “Digital Portfolio Building.”🎯 Who This Episode Is For:Aspiring or early-stage consultants in public healthPublic health professionals looking to grow beyond a 9–5Freelancers wanting to land government or nonprofit contractshttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

🎯 Take the Ideal Public Health Career Quiz💡 Join The Public Health Club: Access career workshops, RFPs, and study groups📚 Workshops Mentioned (All Available in The Public Health Club)Resume DevelopmentDigital Portfolio BuildingProject Management in Public HealthPolicy CareersHealth CommunicationsPublic Health Consulting 101Calling all recent public health graduates—this episode is your career blueprint! Whether you’ve just earned your MPH, DrPH, or bachelor’s in public health, Dr. Des is breaking down the wide world of opportunities that lie ahead. From traditional roles to emerging paths in tech, consulting, and entrepreneurship, she shares practical strategies to help you decide what you want to do next—and how to position yourself to actually get there. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes, market your skillset to different industries, and make the money you deserve in roles you truly enjoy.Dr. Des also shares her own story of navigating career pivots, underpaid roles, and discovering her niche—reminding listeners that it’s okay to change your mind, start over, and explore multiple career lanes within public health.🔑 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to figure out what you actually want to do with your public health degreeWhy public health professionals must learn to “translate” their experience into corporate languageHow to land a high-paying role in unexpected places like Nike, Amazon, or GoogleThe truth about salary potential in different public health specialtiesThe difference between job titles in government vs. industry (and how to decode them)Why pivoting is not only okay—it’s expectedEntrepreneurial pathways in public health and how to get startedHow to use the Ideal Public Health Career Quiz to discover your pathWhy joining The Public Health Club can fast-track your career and networkhttps://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

In this action-packed episode of The Dr. Des Show, Dr. Des walks you through the 5 essential steps to starting your public health business—whether you're still dreaming, currently building, or already launched and looking to refine. From figuring out your business model to identifying your audience, building a brand, and creating an irresistible offer, this episode gives you a full blueprint to get started. Bonus: Dr. Des shares a free downloadable guide you can use to follow along and take action right now.If you're serious about turning your public health passion into a profitable business, this is the episode you don’t want to miss.🔑 What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy niching down is critical for attracting the right clientsHow to determine the best business model for your lifestyle and skillsThe importance of branding and where to start (even without a website!)How to validate your offer before building it (don’t skip this!)The mindset and consistency required to truly succeed as an entrepreneur📌 5 Key Steps DiscussedPick Your Path: Decide what kind of business fits you—consulting, digital products, speaking, brick-and-mortar, etc.Know Your People: Define your audience and where they hang out so you can reach them with intention.Build Your Brand: Choose one or two social platforms to start building visibility—Dr. Des breaks down Instagram vs. LinkedIn.Create an Irresistible Offer: Learn why you must give people what they want—and sneak in what they need.Launch + Stay Consistent: Why consistent action beats perfection, and how to keep going even when your first launch flops.💥 Bonus Resources Mentioned🎁 Free Download: 5 Steps to Starting Your Public Health Business💼 LinkedIn Branding Guide: Get it here🧠 Join the Public Health Club: Your go-to community for mentorship, workshops, RFP lists, and more!👏 Want More Support?Join the Public Health Club to get mentorship, access to client opportunities, and trainings to grow your business.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

In this episode of The Dr. Des Show, we explore how public health professionals can pivot into high-paying roles in the tech industry—without needing a coding bootcamp. Dr. Des breaks down three career paths you might not have considered, shares how your existing skills already align, and offers practical strategies to start applying today. If you've done community assessments, program planning, or compliance work, there's a place for you in tech—and this episode is your roadmap.What You’ll Learn:Why tech is one of the fastest-growing opportunities for public health professionalsThe 3 tech roles you can get with a public health background:UX Researcher – Learn how your qualitative evaluation skills translate into product usability workData Product Manager – Discover how your program and KPI experience aligns with product and platform strategyDigital Health Ethics & Privacy Consultant – Explore how HIPAA, compliance, and policy knowledge are in demand at startups and tech companiesHow to reframe your resume language to speak the language of tech recruitersSalary ranges for each role (ranging from $95K to $140K+)Why networking and visibility (not just job boards) are essential to finding hidden tech opportunitiesMentioned in This Episode:The Public Health Ideal Career QuizPublic Health and Tech Workshop inside The Public Health ClubThe Business of Public Health SummitAction Steps:Take the Public Health Ideal Career QuizJoin the Public Health Club to access workshops and virtual rooms to build your tech readinessRework your resume using the job description as your cheat codeStart telling people about your skills—especially on LinkedInQuotable Moment:“When you think about tech, I want you to think: I can do that. Because your skills are needed—and they’re wanted.”Subscribe & Share: If this episode sparked ideas for your next career move, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a public health friend who needs to hear it!https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/

In this powerful and transparent episode, Dr. Des tackles one of the most-asked questions in public health: "How do I get to six figures?" Whether you’re an early-career professional, a seasoned expert stuck at a salary ceiling, or someone curious about side hustles and consulting, this episode is your no-fluff blueprint. Dr. Des shares her personal journey—from making $36K in public health to bringing in six figures from consulting—and breaks down the mindset shifts, overlooked opportunities, and real strategies that helped her and her students reach new income levels.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🔑 Why mindset is the first step to breaking income ceilings in social impact careers📍 Where six-figure public health jobs are really hiding (hint: it’s not always the CDC)💼 How to leverage your skills for consulting and freelance opportunities🧠 Why it’s time to drop the scarcity mindset and shift into strategic career planning🛠️ The practical blueprint you’ll need to scale your income—with or without a promotionMentioned in this Episode:Join the Public Health Club and start making the right moves to elevate your income!🎯 Free Training: The Six-Figure Public Health Career Blueprint – May 14th💬 The Public Health Club: Join for mentorship, consulting opportunities, and workshops💼 Dr. Des’s personal story of going from underpaid to thriving through a health equity consulting contract🔁 The power of using public health skills in nontraditional sectors like tech, insurance, and social impactJoin the Movement: Get inspired. Take action. And surround yourself with other public health professionals who are building lives filled with purpose and prosperity. Whether you need help navigating job transitions, want to launch your consulting side hustle, or just need someone to remind you that six figures is possible—you’re in the right place.https://www.drdesshow.com/https://www.publichealthclub.com/