Are you thinking about making the leap from a W2 job to being self-employed? Do you want to start your own business on the side while still working as a clinician? Are you ready to build your own business and become an entrepreneur?

If so, then today’s episode is for you! I have Caleb Pepperday, Certified Financial Planner and Chartered Financial Consultant as my guest. Caleb is back to discuss his own journey from W2 employee to self-employed entrepreneur, including pitfalls and lessons learned along the way. Caleb doesn’t sugarcoat the life of an entrepreneur, but he does discuss the many benefits of starting and running your own business. 

Whether you’re looking to join the world of entrepreneurship or looking to make another type of income change, like transitioning to part-time or switching to a lower paying job to avoid burnout, this episode will guide you through the steps you need to take in order to have a solid financial foundation before making that change. 

FREE RESOURCE 💸

https://www.advancedpracticeplanning.com/selfemployment

SPONSORS 🏆

WriteCME Accelerator: https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420

Side Gig Guide: https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig

Sermo: https://app.sermo.com/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend

CONNECT WITH CALEB 💬

Website: https://www.advancedpracticeplanning.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-pepperday/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calebpepperday_cfp/

COACHING 🎓

THE PART-TIME PATHWAY

⁠https://www.tracybingaman.com/pathway

⁠FREE 30-MINUTE COACHING CONSULT⁠ ⁠https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/gen-call⁠  

⁠1-ON-1 NEGOTIATION CONSULT https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/negotiate⁠

CONNECT WITH TRACY 🤝

⁠LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybingaman/⁠

⁠INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/mrstracybingaman/⁠

WEBSITE⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.tracybingaman.com

SUPPORT THIS PODCAST 👍

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thepaisin/support

The Missing Manual for Medical Writing: Behind the Scenes of WriteCME Accelerator

Ever wondered who creates the CME credits you earn? Or how to get started as a freelance medical writer in this niche but high-paying field?

In this special behind-the-scenes episode, Tracy shares the exact kind of opportunity she wishes existed when she was first building her coaching business: a clear, strategic, step-by-step guide to becoming a profitable medical writer — without wasting time, money, or energy.

Enter: WriteCME Accelerator, a yearlong, high-touch mentorship program led by CME expert Dr. Alexandra Howson (check out her story in Episode 317!). Whether you're curious about freelance writing, pivoting your clinical role, or expanding your skillset — this program delivers.

Join WriteCME Accelerator: https://write-medicine.circle.so/checkout/writecme-accelerator?affiliate_code=314420

Inside this episode:

• Why CME writing is a sustainable, flexible career path for clinicians

• The most common barriers to getting started in freelance writing — and how to overcome them

• An overview of what’s inside WriteCME Accelerator (hint: it’s everything you need to succeed)

• Real stories from graduates who made the leap with confidence and clarity

If you're ready to explore this niche and get paid well for your clinical expertise, check out WriteCME Accelerator. https://write-medicine.circle.so/checkout/writecme-accelerator?affiliate_code=314420

🎧 Tune in now — and take the first step toward your next income stream.

Keywords: freelance medical writing, CME writing, continuing medical education, how to become a medical writer, WriteCME Accelerator, clinician side gig, PA side hustle, healthcare writing jobs, medical writing course, work from home for clinicians, burnout recovery, career transition for PAs, passive income for healthcare providers, physician associate freelance jobs, sustainable income for clinicians, flexible healthcare careers, writing jobs for providers, PA part-time career options

Conferences are packed with potential—but only if you show up with a plan. In this episode of The PA Is In, Tracy shares five simple, impactful steps to help you get the most out of your next conference experience, whether you’re attending for CME, connection, job hunting, or just a fresh dose of inspiration.

You’ll learn how to clarify your goals, build an intentional schedule, prioritize rest (yes, really), and turn your time away from home into something meaningful—not overwhelming.

You’ll walk away with:

• A 5-step strategy to make any conference worth the investment
  

• Real-life tips to network with confidence and purpose
  

• Encouragement to schedule rest, reflection, and FUN into your conference plans
  

• Permission to attend with intention and leave fulfilled

SPONSORS:

⁠SERMO⁠ -- https://app.sermo.com:443/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend

⁠WRITE CME ACCELERATOR⁠ -- ⁠https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420 ⁠

⁠SIDE GIG GUIDE⁠ - ⁠https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig⁠

🔗 Resources & Links:

• 📥⁠ Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot ⁠

• 📅 ⁠Book a 1:1 Coaching Call⁠ to build your personalized transition plan ⁠⁠

🛤 ⁠Join Pathway to Part-Time⁠ – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence

Keywords: conference tips for PAs, CME conference strategy, how to network at medical conferences, physician associate career growth, healthcare conference planning, clinical conference prep, PA conference checklist, make the most of medical conferences, AAPA conference advice, job hunting at conferences, networking for PAs, conference schedule strategy, PA career coaching, burnout prevention for clinicians, work-life balance in medicine, PA podcast episodes, Tracy Bingaman, The PA Is In

I always enjoy discussing Unicorn positions with other clinicians - jobs they’ve found that light them up, utilize their skills, and align with their core values. I especially adore learning how clinicians have made the leap from clinical jobs to non-clinical careers. My guest today did just that!

Dr. Alexandra Howson started her career as a trauma nurse before transitioning into academia. But for the past 20 years, Alex has been an independent freelance CME writer. In today’s episode, Alex describes how she found medical writing as a career, and how you can get into CME writing, too. 

Alex discusses how medical professionals are especially suited to work in CME writing, as well as how to do a skills assessment to determine your unique skill set you can utilize as a CME writer. 

We also talk about making the transition from a W2 employee to a self-employed freelancer and how this can affect your professional identity. Alex provides actionable tips on how to set up a successful freelance career that aligns with your core values. 

If you’ve ever thought about transitioning to a non-clinical career or starting a side gig from home, then CME writing may be for you! Press play to learn more. 

✍️🎓💻

Do you want to get started in building your own freelance business as a CME writer but don’t know where to begin? WriteCME Accelerator is your answer! WriteCME Accelerator is a comprehensive, yearlong program that helps freelance medical writers build and grow sustainable businesses in CME. You’ll receive expert training, live coaching, and yearlong access to a private community. Click this link to join now.

SPONSORS 🏆WriteCME Accelerator: https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420

Side Gig Guide: https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig

Sermo: https://app.sermo.com/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend

CONNECT WITH ALEX 💬

LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhowson/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/writemedicine/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/writecme-pro 

Websites:

https://www.writemedicine.com/ 

https://www.alexhowson.com/WriteCME Accelerator Course:https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420

COACHING 🎓

THE PART-TIME PATHWAY

⁠https://www.tracybingaman.com/pathway

⁠FREE 30-MINUTE COACHING CONSULT⁠ ⁠https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/gen-call⁠  

⁠1-ON-1 NEGOTIATION CONSULT https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/negotiate

⁠

CONNECT WITH TRACY 🤝

⁠LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybingaman/⁠

⁠INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/mrstracybingaman/⁠

WEBSITE⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.tracybingaman.com

SUPPORT THIS PODCAST 👍

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thepaisin/support

What if your income didn’t rely on just one paycheck? In this episode of The PA Is In, I’m pulling back the curtain on the 7 ways I’ve made money—both as a practicing PA and outside of traditional medicine.

From PRN surgery coverage and one-on-one coaching to podcast sponsorships and paid speaking gigs, you’ll hear exactly how I’ve diversified my income over the years. Some streams were short-lived, others turned into thriving businesses—and all of them helped build financial freedom for my family.

Whether you're burned out and looking for options, or you're simply ready to expand your earning potential, this episode will inspire you to take the first step.

🎧 Tune in and download your free Side Gig Guide with 48 ideas for clinicians at: tracybingaman.com/gig

SPONSORS:

SERMO -- https://app.sermo.com:443/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend

WRITE CME ACCELERATOR -- https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420

SIDE GIG GUIDE - https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig

🔗 Resources & Links:

🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence

Keywords: physician assistant side hustle, PA side gig ideas, make money outside medicine, clinician career coaching, financial independence healthcare, PA coaching, burnout recovery, CME writer jobs, side income for PAs, passive income for clinicians, PA podcast, healthcare content writing, group coaching programs for PAs, negotiate your salary PA, work from home medical jobs, nonclinical jobs for PAs, speaking as a PA, PRN surgery jobs, physician assistant income streams, how to start a podcast

There’s a lot of noise out there about “scope creep” in healthcare. But instead of letting fear and false narratives distract us, it’s time to shift our focus to what really matters.

In this episode, I’m breaking down five powerful areas where PAs should be putting their energy:

• Building strong, trust-based patient relationships

• Investing in ongoing professional development

• Cultivating mentorship and sponsorship

• Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries

• Advocating for the PA profession

These are the things that truly move the needle—for our careers, our patients, and our collective future as PAs.

Resources & Links

🔗 Join Sermo

📄 Free Download: Side Gig Guide

🎓 Coaching & Programs: The Part-Time Pathway

💬 Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: @tracybingaman

🌐 Website: www.tracybingaman.com

Keywords: scope creep healthcare, PA profession, physician associate career, burnout prevention, work-life balance, PA advocacy, mentorship in medicine, setting boundaries in healthcare, physician assistant role, professional development for PAs, clinical skills, PA career growth, prevent burnout, PA career strategy, professional boundaries, PA mentorship, healthcare advocacy, clinician sustainability, work-life integration for PAs, top of license practice

How to Make a Part-Time Pivot Without Risking Your Financial Stability

Going part-time sounds dreamy—more freedom, flexibility, and control over your life. But if you’re the primary income earner or your family relies on your paycheck, the idea can feel more like a terrifying leap off a financial cliff than a gentle pivot.

In this episode, Tracy breaks that leap down into manageable, bite-sized steps that let you transition into part-time work without sacrificing your financial security or peace of mind.

You’ll walk away with a 5-step strategy to test, prepare for, and execute a part-time pivot in a way that feels safe, smart, and sustainable.

🎧 Inside this episode:

• Why going part-time feels so risky—and how to reduce that fear
  

• The #1 mindset shift to help you feel more in control
  

• 5 steps to transition to part-time without financial panic
  

• Scripts to negotiate a gradual schedule shift and better pay
  

• Real stories of providers who made the leap safely and successfully
  

This isn’t about jumping and hoping you land—this is about building the staircase that takes you down with confidence.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• 📥 Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot
  

• 📅 Book a 1:1 Coaching Call to build your personalized transition plan
  

🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence

Keywords:

part-time transition, how to go part-time, physician associate part-time, part-time without losing income, transition steps for clinicians, reduce clinical hours, smooth part-time pivot, budget test run, phased work transition, hourly pay negotiation, productivity-based pay, PA salary transition, part-time pay strategies, financial buffer for career change, coaching for PAs, side gigs for clinicians, part-time income protection, backup plan for part-time, strategic career change for healthcare providers

Proven Strategies to Earn More While Working Less

What if cutting your hours didn’t mean cutting your income? In this episode, Tracy unpacks exactly how to negotiate your compensation when you make the leap to part-time work—and spoiler alert: you can earn more while working less.

Most clinicians default to accepting prorated salaries without question, but that doesn’t have to be your story. There are smarter, more strategic ways to structure your pay—and this episode shows you how to ask for them with confidence.

💼 Inside this episode:

• The biggest mistake providers make when going part-time
  

• 4 specific negotiation strategies to maximize pay
  

• Phrases to use in your negotiation meeting
  

• Susie’s story: how she dropped 20+ hours/week and increased her income
  

• Why how you get paid matters just as much as how much
  

Whether you’re considering part-time or already there and ready to earn more, this episode is packed with tools to help you advocate for what you’re worth.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• 📥 Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot
  

• 📅 Book a 1:1 Coaching Call to build your personalized transition plan
  

🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence

Keywords:

negotiate part-time pay, work less earn more, PA salary negotiation, how to negotiate as a PA, cutting clinical hours, part-time physician associate, negotiating hourly rate, RVU-based compensation, productivity pay models, clinician bonus structure, premium shift differentials, PA part-time pay, increase income part-time, clinician career coaching, provider compensation strategies, how to avoid prorated salary

A Mindset Exercise to Help You Make the Right Decision with Confidence

You’re staring down a big decision—going part-time. And with it? A mountain of fear and doubt. What if you regret it? What if it messes with your finances or your identity as a healthcare provider? What if you can’t go back?

These fears are totally normal—but they don’t get to drive your decisions.

In this episode, Tracy walks you through a powerful mindset exercise to help you untangle fear from fact, evaluate your “what ifs,” and make a confident, informed decision about going part-time.

🎧 You’ll learn:

• Why fear is normal—but not in charge
  

• A 4-step “Fear vs. Reality” exercise to gain clarity
  

• How to plan for worst-case and best-case scenarios
  

• What confidence really looks like (hint: it’s not certainty)
  

• One simple step to move forward with purpose
  

🎯 If you’re wrestling with fear and indecision, this episode will help you feel grounded, prepared, and in control.

🔗 Resources & Links:

• 📥 Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot
  

• 📅 Book a 1:1 Coaching Call to build your personalized transition plan
  

🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence

Keywords: going part-time as a PA, part-time transition healthcare, fear of regret career change, mindset for change, fear vs reality exercise, overcoming doubt, confidence in decision making, part-time schedule pros and cons, PA burnout recovery, physician associate part-time work, part-time lifestyle, work-life balance for clinicians, coaching for PAs, healthcare career pivot, planning a part-time transition

Thinking about going part-time?

Pause right there.

Before you submit your request or fantasize about slow mornings and midweek hikes, there are 4 critical conversations you need to have first—because adjusting your schedule isn’t just about hours. It’s about your identity, finances, career trajectory, and relationships.

In this episode, I’m giving you the blueprint to transition with clarity, confidence, and support by walking you through the exact conversations you must have—with yourself, your partner, your financial advisor, and your employer—before making the leap.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to redefine your identity when you’re not working full-time

✅ How to get your partner on board without starting WWIII

✅ The money questions you must answer to avoid future regret

✅ How to present a compelling business case to your employer—and what to say when they push back

💡 Whether you're craving flexibility, protecting your peace, or working toward sustainability in medicine, these conversations are non-negotiable.

📌 Resources mentioned:

• Free Guide: 5-Step Part-Time Pivot

• Book a 1:1 Strategy Call

• Join the Part-Time Pathway Program
  

  
  

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