In this solo episode, Dr. Des takes you deep into the real talk behind job promotions and career pivots. From her first promotion at the Florida Department of Health to launching a consulting career, she unpacks the unglamorous truth behind getting ahead in public health. You’ll hear about the power of a digital portfolio, why you might have to apply for a promotion (even when you’re already doing the work), and how to tell when it’s time to move on from a job that’s no longer serving you. Whether you're feeling stuck, underpaid, or just ready for your next step, this episode will help you get clear—and get moving.

Key Takeaways:

💼 Promotions in Public Health Aren’t Always Guaranteed: Unlike some industries, public health doesn’t always offer a clear path to advancement—you often have to apply and compete, even internally.

📁 Build a Digital Portfolio: Dr. Des shares how her collection of saved work—GIS maps, RFPs, presentations—helped her land both jobs and her first consulting contract.

📉 Don’t Wait for Fairness—Build Your Leverage: You may be the most qualified, but if you’re underpaid or overlooked, focus on stacking your skills and resume to pivot up or out.

🚪 Knowing When to Leave: When your job becomes repetitive, unfulfilling, or stalls your salary growth, it may be time to move on—even if the benefits are decent.

🧭 Get Mentorship and Be Proactive: Investing in mentors, joining communities like the Public Health Club, and taking initiative (even when unpaid) can create new leadership and income opportunities.

Mentioned in This Episode: The Public Health Club – Get access to mentorship sessions, workshops, and the digital portfolio training

How to use informational interviews on LinkedIn to connect with potential mentors

Dr. Des’s own leap from administrator to consultant—and what sparked the shift

Join the Public Health Club for a free 7-day trial and access the Digital Portfolio Workshop. Whether you're job hunting, preparing to pivot, or trying to position yourself for a promotion, the tools and community are here to help you thrive.

https://www.publichealthclub.com/

🎙 Final Episode: The Future of Public Health – Where Do We Go From Here? In this power-packed final episode of the Business of Public Health Summit Insider Series, Dr. Des and Dr. Brittny James are keeping it real about the future of public health!

🚀 From career pivots to building financial success, they break down what’s next in the field and how YOU can stay ahead. With federal job uncertainty, the rise of consulting & entrepreneurship, and the need for public health professionals to create their own opportunities, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the evolving workforce!

🔥 🎯 Key Takeaways:

🔍 The Future of Public Health Careers – What’s changing, and how can you prepare?

💼 From Federal to Financial Freedom – How to leverage government experience for consulting & private sector roles.

📲 Social Media = Career Growth? – Why public health professionals must embrace digital platforms to share insights & expand influence.

🚪 Create Your Own Opportunities – Don’t wait for a seat at the table—build your own!

💰 Impact & Income – How to make a difference while securing financial success in public health.

🎟 Join Us at the Business of Public Health Summit! 📅 April 11th | Atlanta, GA This isn’t just a conference—it’s an experience! ✨ Connect with industry leaders, mentors, and fellow public health professionals ready to help you take your career to the next level. If you haven’t grabbed your ticket yet, what are you waiting for? ⏳

🎙️ Welcome back to The Dr. Des Show and our Business of Public Health Insider Sessions with Doc B!

In this third session, we’re pulling back the curtain on how we landed our very first public health consulting clients. If you’ve ever wondered how to get started in public health consulting, find clients, or secure contracts, this episode is packed with firsthand experiences and strategies that worked for us.

💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

The different ways public health consultants land their first clients. The role of networking, relationships, and referrals in getting hired. How applying to RFPs and RFQs can get your foot in the door.

The exact steps we took to turn one client into a growing business. The importance of knowing your worth and pricing your services properly.

🔥 Why You Should Listen: Real-World Advice: Hear exactly how we secured our first contracts and how you can do the same.

Actionable Steps: Learn where to find contracts, how to approach potential clients, and how to pitch your services. Common Pitfalls to

Avoid: Don't make the same mistakes we did—learn from our experiences! Industry Secrets: Discover how word-of-mouth and strategic networking can transform your career.

🚀 Bonus Discussion: We also dive into imposter syndrome in public health, why public health professionals are underpaid, and how to transition from full-time employment to consulting—without feeling lost in the process.