Is it Time to Quit Your Job? -Public Health Edition
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.
