Advertise on podcast: Private Practice Success Stories

What if the job you loved stopped feeling like you? For so many therapists, the passion that drove them into the field gets buried under productivity requirements and a lack of autonomy. Today’s guest knows that feeling well and she did something about it. I’m so excited to share her story! I’m sitting down with Sarah Wilson, a speech-language pathologist and graduate of my Start Your Private Practice Program. Sarah is the owner and founder of Enrichment Therapy Services, based in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Sarah earned her Master’s degree from Misericordia University in 2013 and spent the next ten years working primarily in skilled nursing facilities before launching her private practice in 2023. Her clinical passions are diverse: she specializes in speech sound disorders and neurotypical language development in children, while also holding certification in VitalStim for swallowing disorders and treating cognitive-linguistic impairments in adults. Above all, she has a love for "all things speech" and is dedicated to constantly learning and furthering her knowledge across all areas of the field. After a decade working in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), Sarah knew something had to change. She was burning out and losing the spark that made her love speech therapy. Taking the leap into private practice wasn’t just a career change — it was a lifeline. In this episode, Sarah discusses how she went from working multiple PRN jobs just to make ends meet to building a multi-faceted private practice that serves both adults and pediatrics, all while gaining the flexibility to be present for her young son. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How she pivoted from being a finance major to becoming a speech language pathologistThe moment a Facebook ad for the Start Your Private Practice program showed up at exactly the right timeHow she built a multi-pillar practice with in-person therapy, virtual sessions, and school contractsHow hiring her first clinician opened up a whole new level of growth she never expected Sarah’s story is proof that you don’t have to stay stuck in a setting that drains you. By taking small, intentional steps and leaning on the right support, she turned her career into something that truly fits her life. Want to build a private practice that gives you your spark back just like Sarah did? Learn more The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the roadmap, resources, and support to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow an existing one, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Sarah on Facebook: Enrichment Therapy Services Check out her website: www.enrichmenttherapyservices.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

Have you ever had a client (or caseload) that made you think “I could do this so much better if I just have my own space”? For today’s guest, building her own private practice wasn’t just about clinical freedom—it was about finally doing therapy the way she always knew it should be done. And the best part? She did it all while keeping her dream role within the school system. I’m so excited to introduce you to Sheila Cina, a speech-language pathologist and a valued member of the Grow Your Private Practice Program. Sheila is the owner and founder of The Talking Place, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Sheila’s journey into private practice is a masterclass in intentionality. Through a mix of side gigs, cold calls, and a leap of faith, she built a practice that not only serves her ideal clients but also allows her to mentor over 100 SLPs in her district. In this episode, Sheila discusses how she went from doing books in her husband’s basement to building a thriving practice, all while maintaining a flexible schedule and a collaborative network of colleagues. She specializes in compassionate, research-aligned, stutter-affirming therapy for children, teens, and adults. Her work centers on helping clients feel safe and empowered—reducing struggle around communication while honoring each person’s voice exactly as it is. She is also a certified life coach, bringing a unique perspective to her therapy sessions. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Her fluency specialtyThe surprising benefit of keeping a 0.2 school position even after going out on her ownBuilding a collaborative community of SLPs who refer to each other instead of competing Sheila’s story is proof that you don’t have to choose between clinical integrity and a balanced life. She has built a career that allows her to specialize deeply, consult widely, and still have dinner with her husband a few nights a week. We are so lucky to have her as part of our community, and her journey is an inspiring example of what’s possible when you decide to create a job that fits you. Want to build a private practice that gives you the freedom to design your ideal week? Learn more about our Grow Your Private Practice Program at www.GrowYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Sheila on: Instagram: instagram.com/thetalkingplacemn/ Facebook: facebook.com/TheTalkingPlaceMN Check out her website: ttpmn.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if you could build a private practice so strong, you could retire early—without letting go of the clients you love? Today's guest is a speech-language pathologist who turned decades of specialization into a thriving practice, a legacy plan, and a roadmap to hiking the Amalfi Coast while still staying connected to the field she's passionate about. I'm thrilled to introduce you to Maureen Neukirch, a speech-language pathologist and the owner of Little Speech Boutique in the greater Nashville area. Maureen provides in-home, preschool, and community-based services but she's not your average generalist. With over 25 years of experience across a variety of early childhood settings, Maureen’s journey is built on a deep foundation. Her research background in sensorimotor integration, prerequisites for early reading success, and rural service delivery via teletherapy has always set her apart. After decades in the field starting in schools, transitioning to neurodegenerative work during COVID, and learning what kind of boss she never wanted to be — Maureen made a bold decision: she would specialize in Childhood Apraxia of Speech (CAS). That decision didn't just change her caseload. It changed her entire career trajectory. Now an early intervention specialist serving clients from 18 months to 12 years of age, Maureen works with children across varying degrees of severity related to speech development. Her expertise is nationally recognized. She is a Certified Dynamic Temporal and Tactile Cueing (DTTC) Research Clinician, a distinction awarded by the Once Upon a Time Foundation, where she was selected for a prestigious research study and trained by leaders. She is also recognized by the Apraxia Foundation and Bjorem Speech as an Apraxia Trained Clinician. In addition to DTTC and the Dynamic Evaluation of Motor Speech Sounds (DEMSS), Maureen utilizes Rapid Syllable Transition (ReST) and has been trained in PROMPT, ensuring her approach is backed by the most current, evidence-based practices. In this episode, Maureen discusses how specializing in CAS helped her build a full caseload in a new city, why she confidently refers to anything outside her niche, and the legacy plan she's building as she looks toward retirement. Maureen is passionate about dynamic assessment, differential diagnosis, and helping families find clarity. She believes in going deep, not wide and that being a specialist doesn't mean struggling for referrals. Outside of client care, she’s building something bigger: a network of clinicians and a vision for connecting Nashville’s private practitioners so families can finally find the specialists they need. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How specializing in CAS — one of the most specific niches in our field — actually made it easier to get referrals in a city where she had zero connectionsThe "splashy" marketing strategy she used to get noticed from day oneWhy she sees other SLPs as collaborators, not competitors (and the networking philosophy that's fueled her growth)The legacy she's building as she plans her next chapter — a community-wide referral network for clinicians and families across Nashville Maureen is proof that you don't have to be everything to everyone. By going deep on what she loves, she's built a practice that serves her ideal clients, fuels her intellectually, and gives her the freedom to start thinking about what's next. And here's the best part: her story does not have to be the exception. You, too, can build a practice that lets you specialize, collaborate, and eventually scale whether that means hiring, retiring, or just taking more October hikes. Want to build a private practice that gives you the freedom to specialize, the confidence to refer out, and the vision to plan for your future—just like Maureen? The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the roadmap, resources and mentorship where our mentors can help you overcome fears, build systems, and find your path to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing one, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Maureen on Instagram: instagram.com/littlespeechboutique/ Facebook: facebook.com/littlespeechboutique Check out her website: littlespeechboutique.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if you could build a private practice that actually fits your life and not the other way around? Today's guest is an occupational therapist who intentionally built a solo practice around her family, and her community. And she's proving that you don't need a giant sensory gym or a million-dollar buildout to create a thriving practice. I'm thrilled to introduce you to Emily Vernon, an occupational therapist and a student of the Grow Your Private Practice Program community. Emily is the owner and founder of Spectrum Connections, based in Fort Smith, Arkansas. What makes Emily's story so unique? She's a self-described "ADHD, Type B, big picture thinker" who has built her practice on her own terms. Emily Vernon has 15 years of pediatric OT experience, specializing in apraxia, sensory-motor skills, group therapy, and spelling to communicate. She accepts a mix of insurance, private pay, and Arkansas's Education Freedom Act funds. Beyond one-on-one sessions, Emily runs groups year-round and has recently expanded into public speaking and professional development. In this episode, Emily shares how she went from working in outpatient clinics to starting an OT department for someone else, to finally launching her own solo practice and how each step taught her something valuable about what she actually wanted. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How she built a full caseload for herselfThe low-cost and semi-non-traditional but fantastic space she sees clientsCreative payment options she’s leaning into beyond insurance and private payHer advice for taking imperfect action, especially if you’re a fellow type B, ADHD, big-picture thinker Emily's journey proves that successful private practice owners come in all types. You don't need a Type A personality. You don't need every detail mapped out. You just need the courage to start imperfectly. Her story doesn't have to be the exception. It can be your blueprint for building a practice that actually supports your life. Want to build your private practice to the point where YOU can set your own hours, choose your ideal clients, and actually be present for your family just like Emily has? The Start Your Private Practice Program can give you the tools and step-by-step guidance to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing one, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Emily on Instagram: instagram.com/spectrum.connections.ar/ Facebook: Spectrum.Connections.AR Check out her website: spectrumconnections.co Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if you could build a practice that fits your life, not the other way around? What if you could transition from feeling burnt out and lost in your career to becoming a thriving practice owner and mentor to others? Today’s guest did exactly that, starting her journey during one of the messiest seasons of her life. I’m thrilled to reintroduce you to Amanda Modrowski, a speech-language pathologist and one of our incredible mentors inside the Start Your Private Practice Program. Amanda is the owner and founder of her private practice, Enhancing Communication, based in Parisburg, Ohio. Starting her practice in 2019 was the key to Amanda rediscovering her love for the field and creating a schedule that put her family first. She went from managing a caseload of 70 in the schools to designing a fulfilling career on her own terms. In this episode, Amanda discusses how she started her practice against all odds, her non-salesy approach to marketing that actually worked, and how her practice has evolved to include a specialty, a beautiful new clinic space, and a growing team. Amanda is a licensed speech-language pathologist who earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from the University of Toledo in Ohio. She began her career in skilled nursing, transitioned to outpatient care with a non-profit, and spent years in the public-school system. She holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence from ASHA and has developed a specialty in myofunctional therapy, which she now provides to both children and adults. Outside of patient care, Amanda devotes time to mentoring new clinicians in our Start Your Private Practice Program. In her free time, she enjoys life with her husband, their two children, and their two corgis. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Taking the leap (even with a full plate) and going “cold turkey” with the job that was no longer serving herHer non-salesy marketing strategy that built her initial caseloadNavigating alternative funding sources like Ohio’s Jon Peterson ScholarshipHow her practice has evolved from a mobile service to a multi-disciplinary clinicThe profound impact private practice has had on her family life and schedule Amanda’s story is a powerful testament to what’s possible. We are so fortunate to have her guiding our students. Every journey is unique and you, too, can build a career that brings you freedom and fulfillment. Want to build a private practice that adapts to your life – just like Amanda has? The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the roadmap, resources and mentorship where Amanda and our other mentors can help you overcome fears, build systems, and find your path to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Amanda on: Facebook: facebook.com/enhancingcommunication Instagram: instagram.com/enhancingcommunication/ Check out her website: https://www.enhancingcommunicationtoledo.com/ Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if the salary ladder you’re climbing is actually the slowest route to the top? On today's episode of the Private Practice Success Stories podcast, I’m pulling back the curtain on a topic that often feels off-limits: money. If you’re a school-based clinician—an SLP or OT who has done everything right, checked every box, and climbed every rung—this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about your income potential. We’re taught to believe that hard work and time naturally lead to financial comfort. But for so many in the school system, that comfort never quite arrives. Today, I’m naming the invisible ceiling that keeps talented clinicians stuck on a treadmill, and I’m showing you exactly the other path. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:The honest reality of a 20-year school-based salary trajectory The conservative math of private practiceWhy you don’t have to choose—and how keeping your school job while adding private clients on the side is the ultimate strategy Starting with just a few clients after school or on weekends isn't abandoning your mission. It's about finally valuing your expertise at the rate the market actually demands. It's about giving yourself a raise this week, instead of waiting 12 months for a cost-of-living adjustment that barely keeps pace with inflation. If you've ever looked at a salary schedule and felt a quiet knot in your stomach—the feeling that the top isn't nearly as high as you'd hoped—this episode is for you. Ready to stop waiting for a ladder that wasn't built for you? Join me for a free training that walks you through everything. Visit startyourprivatepractice.com to sign up today. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if the reasons you're not starting a private practice aren't reasons at all—they're lies? On today's episode of the Private Practice Success Stories podcast, I'm tackling the misconceptions that keep school-based clinicians stuck for years. If you're working in a school right now—if you've been thinking about private practice but haven't taken action—this episode will change how you see your path forward. I'm naming the three biggest lies that school clinicians believe about private practice. Not myths. Not misconceptions. Lies. They sound true. They feel true. And they are the only thing standing between you and the practice you could be building right now. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Why "I need more experience" is keeping you from starting (and what you actually need instead)The truth about financial risk and why waiting is actually the most expensive decision you're makingHow to find the time when you feel like you have none (hint: you need less than you think) Starting small with a few clients, virtual sessions, or weekend hours isn't a compromise—it's a brilliant strategy. It creates financial breathing room, professional confidence, and a clear path forward on your terms. If you've been waiting for a sign to explore private practice without pressure, this is it. Ready to take your first step with clarity? Join me for a free training that walks you through everything. Visit startyourprivatepractice.com to sign up today. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if the job you've been dreaming of already exists—you just have to build it yourself? Today's guest started her career wanting to work in hospitals with adults, but a perfect storm of timing and self-discovery led her somewhere entirely different. Now she's using her clinical skills to serve kids and families in a way that actually works—and I can't wait for you to hear her story! I’m thrilled to introduce you to Rebecca Wellons is speech-language pathologist and the owner and founder of Little Seeds Speech Therapy, serving families in Durham, North. Rebecca’s journey proves that you don’t have to make a dramatic, overnight leap to build a thriving practice. By embracing a slow, steady transition and leveraging powerful, simple strategies, she crafted a business that gives her control, flexibility, and deep professional satisfaction. In this episode, Rebecca discusses how starting slow, following her clinical curiosities, and designing a schedule that led to more peace, more purpose, and a practice she truly loves. Rebecca is a licensed speech-language pathologist with a fascinating background in linguistics. She specializes in myofunctional therapy, childhood apraxia of speech, and late talkers. She holds her graduate degree in speech-language pathology and has pursued extensive continuing education to better serve children. She takes a whole-child approach that recognizes the overlap between motor planning, oral motor function, and communication—refusing to put kids in boxes when their challenges don't fit neatly into one diagnosis. Outside of client care, Rebecca enjoys spending time in the Durham community and protecting her midday breaks for things like errands when the stores are quiet (a small perk of the private practice life). In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How working as a contractor gave her first taste of autonomyHer realization that she could cap her caseload, schedule, and create a space for herselfDiscovering she is neurodivergent and how that realization changed everythingHow she began designing a practice that works with her brain, not against it Rebecca's story is a beautiful reminder that private practice doesn't have to mean quitting your job overnight and going all in. For her, it meant slowly transitioning, following referrals from fellow SLPs, and building at a pace that felt sustainable. Want to build a private practice that actually fits your life—neurodivergence, midday breaks, specialized niche, and all? The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the roadmap, resources, and support to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Check out her website: www.littleseedsspeechtherapy.com/ Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if the next step in your career was simply saying "yes" to yourself? For many clinicians, the idea of starting a private practice feels like a "someday" dream. But for today’s guest, "someday" arrived a lot sooner than she expected — and it completely changed her career. I’m thrilled to introduce you to Kara Nelson, a pediatric speech-language pathologist, mom, and the founder of Sahuarita Speech Spot, a private practice serving families in a rural-suburban community in Southern Arizona, just 20 miles north of the Mexico border. Kara specializes in gestalt language processing and neurodiversity-affirming therapy, supporting children from first words through early literacy. She has grown her practice beyond traditional speech therapy by adding reading tutoring, school contracts, and community partnerships, all while raising her family and figuring out how to scale a business without losing the heart of the work. She is a shining example of what happens when you combine clinical expertise with a leap of faith—and she’s been a joy to watch grow from the very first steps of her journey all the way to where she is now. From working as a speech tech in the schools to building a thriving practice with a brick-and-mortar location and a growing team, Kara’s story proves that private practice isn’t just for the "type A" planners—it’s for anyone willing to go all in. In this episode, Kara shares how she moved from feeling stuck in the school system to creating a practice that fits her life, her family, and her community. Kara Nelson has been working in the schools since 2007, starting as a speech language technician before earning her master’s degree from Northern Arizona University. She spent over 15 years in educational settings before realizing she was ready for something different. A self-described "all or nothing" person, Kara didn’t waffle when the idea of private practice took hold. She started small—mobile and part-time—while continuing to work in early intervention and the schools. But it wasn’t long before her caseload grew, and so did her vision. Today, Kara runs a busy practice that offers both speech therapy and literacy support out of a permanent location. She’s learned to leverage technology, streamline her systems, and even bring on a team member. And through it all, she’s stayed grounded in her mission: helping kids communicate and connect. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How Kara transitioned from school-based work to private practice—and why she knew it was timeThe value of starting mobile to build momentum without the overheadThe unexpected doors that opened—like renting space in a churchHer advice for clinicians who are nervous about taking the leap Kara’s journey is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to have every detail figured out before you start. You just have to begin. Whether it’s gaining confidence to have parents in the room, posting on Facebook to find clients, or deciding to build walls in a leased space—each step builds on the last. Her story does not have to be the exception. You, too, can create a practice that grows with you—if you’re willing to take the first step. Want to build a private practice that fits your life—whether you’re type A, type B, or somewhere in between? The Start Your Private Practice Program can give you the tools and step-by-step guidance to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Kara on Facebook: facebook.com/sahuaritaspeechspot Check out her website: sahuaritaspeechspot.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if your private practice could be a platform for change—for your clients and yourself? Today’s guest didn't just start a private practice; she built a mission-driven business that blends speech therapy with fierce advocacy. She traded burnout for autonomy and now uses her voice to empower families navigating the complex world of IEPs. I’m so excited to introduce you to Colleen Ashford, a speech-language pathologist and one of the dedicated clinicians inside our Grow Your Private Practice Program. Colleen is the owner and founder of Ashford Speech and Advocacy PC, a mobile and virtual private practice based in Vista, California where she provides evaluations, treatment, consultations, and advocacy at IEP meetings. For Colleen, starting her own practice was about more than flexibility and income—it was about authentic, values-driven work. She has created a unique model that allows her to serve early intervention clients and act as a special education advocate, ensuring families are supported at every step. In this episode, Colleen reveals how leaving the constraints of clinic and school jobs allowed her to design a practice that fits her life, serves her community deeply, and lets her show up as her full, authentic self. Colleen Ashford is a licensed speech-language pathologist and certified special education advocate. After graduating from the University of Illinois with her bachelor’s and Illinois State University with her master’s, she began her career in a public elementary school with a bilingual program, which fueled her focus on improving her Spanish to better serve her students and families. Love brought her to Southern California, where she worked in multidisciplinary clinics alongside OTs and PTs, learning invaluable lessons about sensory and motor development that inform her holistic approach today. Now in her full-time practice, Colleen’s areas of focus include AAC, Autism, Childhood Apraxia of Speech, and parent coaching in early intervention. She is passionate about providing culturally responsive early intervention services to the Spanish-speaking population in her own neighborhood. Always an advocate at her core—and now in title—Colleen equips every parent she serves with knowledge of their educational rights and how to navigate the world of special education. Beyond her community, she brings honest conversations about the IEP process to listeners everywhere through her podcast, Unfiltered IEPs. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Leaving a "good job" to answer the craving for flexibility and authentic impactThe moment she realized her school-based experience was a superpower for families in needBuilding a hybrid practice with multiple revenue streams, from early intervention to AAC coachingHow embracing systems gave her back her time and freedom Colleen is a powerful example of how you can design a practice that aligns with your deepest values. We are so grateful to have her wisdom and passion in our Grow Program. Her journey proves that with the right tools and community, you can build a career that doesn’t just sustain you, but fulfills you. Want to build or scale a private practice that fuels your passion and gives you the autonomy you crave—just like Colleen? Discover how our Grow Your Private Practice Program can help you with systems, find the confidence, and build the blueprint to go from clinician to CEO. To learn more, visit www.GrowYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Colleen on Instagram: instagram.com/ashfordspeechandadvocacypc/ | instagram.com/theadvocate.slp/ Check out her website: www.ashfordspeechandadvocacy.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if your private practice could not only fill a critical gap in your community but also give you the freedom to design your ideal work week? Today’s guest turned a lifelong personal connection into a thriving practice that serves an often-overlooked population, and her journey from side hustle to clinic owner is packed with wisdom! I’m thrilled to introduce you to Grace Hedgecock, a pediatric speech-language pathologist and the passionate owner of Hedgehog Speech Therapy in Saratoga in the Bay Area in California. For Grace, private practice was more than a career goal—it was a calling rooted in family. Inspired by her autistic brother, Grace has spent her career specializing in autism, social communication, gestalt language processing, AAC, and supporting autistic teens and young adults with real-life skills in work, relationships, and identity. She is also passionate about literacy after discovering her own dyslexia as an adult. By embracing flexibility and a client-centered approach, she has built a practice that supports her professional passions and personal well-being, proving you can build a business that fits your life, not the other way around. She serves families through evaluations, therapy, screenings, and neurodiversity-affirming parent coaching. In this episode, Grace shares how her personal experience shaped her career path, the strategic steps she took to launch her practice, and how she structures her days to avoid burnout. She is passionate to help children and families understand their unique mind, remove stigma, and grow in confidence. When she’s not in the clinic, Grace enjoys collaborating with her engineer husband on future tech ideas for the field and soaking up time with her dog. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:The pivotal moment of leaping into full-time private practice, trusting her faith without a clear safety netStrategically using preschool screenings to build trust with schools and generate referralsDesigning her ideal schedule to prevent burnout and serve both early intervention and older autistic clients Grace’s story is a beautiful reminder that your unique experiences are your greatest asset in private practice. We are so inspired by her clarity and heart-centered approach. Want to build a practice that aligns with your passions and gives you control over your time—just like Grace has? The Start Your Private Practice Program can give you the tools and step-by-step guidance to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Grace on Instagram: instagram.com/hedgehogspeech/ Check out her website: hedgehogspeech.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if building a thriving private practice meant creating a place where families feel seen, supported, and truly cared for—while also building a life where you can finally make it to your kids’ basketball games? Today’s guest grew a multi-location practice from the ground up, navigated immense challenges, and came out stronger on the other side. I’m introducing you to Christina Galeano, a Speech-Language Pathologist and the inspiring founder and CEO of Kidspeak Speech-Language Therapy Services Inc, a growing pediatric private practice known for its child-centered approach, strong clinical excellence, and a team culture that therapists rarely want to leave, serving families across Southern California. Christina’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, “failing forward,” and building with heart. She started her practice in 2020, just days before the world shut down, with a laptop, a home office space, and a wildly unrealistic idea of how many things one person can accomplish in a day. And has since grown to multiple locations while navigating personal and professional storms. In this episode, Christina gets incredibly honest about the realities of scaling a practice—from hiring hurdles and billing leaks to legal challenges—and shares the exact systems and mindset shifts that helped her reclaim her time, her sanity, and her vision for the future. Christina Galeano is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist who holds a Master’s degree in Communicative Disorders. She is passionate about early intervention and is dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive experience for every family who walks through her doors. She is committed to changing the private practice narrative from “burnout and survival mode” to “sustainable, profitable, and deeply meaningful.” Her mission is to prove that a therapy business can be both clinically excellent and a place where families feel supported and clinicians feel energized. Outside of patient care, Christina focuses on mentoring her amazing all-female team and fostering a positive, connected company culture. In her free time, she loves being present for her three kids and their activities. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:The pivotal moment she realized she needed to build a business bigger than herselfThe hard business lessons—from uncashed claims to lawsuits—that shaped her growthHow implementing simple “money metrics” transformed her practice from surviving to strategically thriving Christina’s story is proof that with passion, perseverance, and the right support, you can build a practice that aligns with your deepest values and grants you the freedom you crave. Her story does not have to be the exception; you, too, can navigate the challenges and create a business that serves your life. Want to build systems that free you from working in your business so you can work on it—just like Christina has? Learn more about our Grow Your Private Practice Program, that’s where she found the community and coaching to navigate hiring, metrics, and scaling with clarity. To learn more, please visit www.GrowYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a private practice or grow your existing private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit my website www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Christina on Instagram: instagram.com/kidspeakservices/ Check out her website: kidspeakservices.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if your previous career—completely unrelated to therapy—held the exact keys you needed to unlock a successful private practice? For Denise Smith, running an auto body shop taught her the administrative, financial, and client-relations skills that gave her the confidence to launch Speak Up Speech Therapy in Southern California. Denise is a speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience whose journey to private practice was anything but linear. Born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon, she discovered the field almost by accident when university programs reopened after war. What began as a curious joke with friends became a lifelong calling after she moved to the United States. Denise is also the co-host of the Heal Yourself Podcast, where she and her co-host lead powerful conversations on self-healing, emotional mastery, and elevating your relationship with yourself from the inside out. After years as a school-based SLP, Denise never saw herself as a business owner. But a pivotal stint managing her then-husband’s auto shop—handling scheduling, insurance claims, invoices, and client complaints—became her unexpected training ground. She looked in the mirror and realized, “Why am I not doing this for me?” Her turning point came on a walk past a neighbor’s house—a neighbor who happened to be a special education coordinator. Denise asked how to get on the list for Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs). That simple question started a domino effect: her first contract led to school referrals, which gave her the foundation to build a practice intentionally designed around her life, not the other way around. With a focus on school contracts, IEEs, and private clients, Denise has created what she calls a “lifestyle practice.” It’s a model built on freedom and flexibility, allowing her to heal her nervous system, prioritize her daughter’s competitive dance schedule, and travel—all while serving a population she loves. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:How running an auto shop gave her the unexpected confidence to start her own practiceWhy she ditched perfection and chose progress with purposeWhat it’s like to build a mobile, flexible “lifestyle” practice while navigating divorce and deep personal healingHow she makes income from school contracts, private pay clients, and independent evaluations — without burning out Denise’s story is a powerful reminder that your path to private practice doesn’t have to look traditional. By trusting her unique journey and leveraging all of her experiences, she designed a business that supports her life, family, and well-being first. Ready to explore what a lifestyle practice could look like for you? Whether you’re just starting to consider private practice or looking to grow an existing one, the right guidance can help you build the freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment you deserve — just like Denise has. The Grow Your Private Practice Program gives you the coaching and guidance to scale your private practice. Learn more at www.GrowYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to Start or Grow a private practice, I can help you get the freedom, flexibility, fulfillment, and financial abundance that you deserve. Visit www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Denise on: Instagram: instagram.com/deniseloutfi.coach TikTok: tiktok.com/@deniseslp23 Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/heal-yourself-podcast Check out her website: speakupspeechtherapy.us Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if the path you thought you were on could lead you somewhere completely unexpected—and completely fulfilling? That’s exactly what happened for San Juanita Reed, founder of Thriving Roots Speech Therapy in Houston, Texas. What started as a teaching career to children eventually blossomed into a thriving private practice, where San Juanita now serves children and adults with a wide range of speech therapy needs. San Juanita’s journey into speech-language pathology began in the classroom. She spent years teaching preschool and working with infants and toddlers, but she often found herself wondering how she could do more to help her students. A chance encounter with a speech-language pathologist opened her eyes to a new path—one that combined her love of working with children with the desire to make a deeper impact on their lives. After navigating personal tragedy and taking a detour to care for herself, she pursued a master’s degree in speech-language pathology and began her career in outpatient therapy and home health. Over time, San Juanita realized that while she loved helping children and families, traditional employment was limiting her growth and contributing to burnout. She began exploring private practice, and with guidance from the Start Your Private Practice Program, she discovered she could create a business that aligned with her skills, values, and life goals. When San Juanita officially launched Thriving Roots Speech Therapy, she approached it with the same careful planning she applies in therapy. She set clear monthly goals, broke them down into actionable steps, and dedicated time to focus on building her practice without distractions. Her first patient inquiries came in on launch day—a perfect reminder that preparation and persistence pay off. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:The moment she knew burnout wasn’t just fatigue — it was a sign to pursue private practiceHow she broke her big goals into tiny steps to make them achievableWhat happened the day her first patient inquiry came in after launchingHow she finally reclaimed joy, purpose, and ownership by being in full control of her practice and her life San Juanita’s story shows that starting a private practice doesn’t require prior business experience or big-city connections—it requires courage, planning, and a willingness to take small, consistent steps. By leading with her heart and putting education and value first, she built a thriving practice that aligns with her purpose and allows her to maintain balance and boundaries. Ready to take control of your career and create your own private practice? The Start Your Private Practice Program gives you the roadmap, resources, and support to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to grow, it’s possible to build a practice that gives you freedom, fulfillment, and the ability to make a real difference—just like San Juanita. Visit www.IndependentClinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow San Juanita on Instagram: instagram.com/thrivingrootsspeech/ and instagram.com/mrssjtheslp/ Check out her website: thrivingrootsspeech.com Where We Can Connect:Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/

What if you could build a private practice with your spouse, create flexibility for your family, and serve your community at the same time? That’s exactly what Morgan and Connor Randel have done with their private practice, Speak, Play, Love, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Morgan has been a speech-language pathologist for 8 years in which she had the privilege working with diverse infants, toddlers, and school age children. Her passion for working with kids started when she was just 12, babysitting and dreaming of a career helping children. After exploring teaching and nursing, she discovered speech pathology in college—a perfect blend of her interests. Connor, her husband, brought a lifelong entrepreneurial spirit and a background in finance and accounting. Together, they realized they could combine their skills to create something truly unique. After moving to Charlotte and navigating the challenges of finding her first job as a new graduate, Morgan started working as an independent contractor. She began to see firsthand the possibilities of private practice. When Morgan became pregnant with their first child, she and Connor decided it was the perfect time to take the leap—launching Speak, Play, Love while growing their family. Starting small, Morgan began seeing 5–10 clients a week, primarily through existing relationships with local daycares. By the time they had their second child, their practice had grown to 18 clients and 26 weekly sessions. Connor stepped in to manage the business side—billing, onboarding, and growth strategy—allowing Morgan to focus on therapy and client care. Over the next several months, Morgan and Connor continued to hire therapists, expand services, and grow their caseload. By creating a mobile-based practice, they kept overhead low, maximized their reach across Charlotte, and made therapy accessible to families who might otherwise face barriers to care. Morgan and Connor’s story highlights the power of partnership. Morgan leads in therapy and client care, while Connor manages the business operations and growth. Their complementary skills, mutual trust, and shared vision allow them to operate a practice that works for their family, serves the community, and supports other therapists in their professional growth. In Today's Episode, We Discuss:Transitioning from traditional employment to private practice while starting a familyBuilding a mobile-based practice to serve the community efficientlyPartnering with a spouse to balance business growth and personal lifeHiring and onboarding therapists to scale services without sacrificing qualityCreating systems that allow for flexibility, sustainability, and growth Morgan and Connor’s journey is a reminder that private practice is more than just a job—it’s about designing a life. By combining their strengths, embracing the challenges, and thinking creatively about their model, they’ve built a thriving practice that supports their family, their clients, and their therapists. If you’re ready to create a private practice that works for you and your family—whether solo or with a partner—the Start Your Private Practice Program can give you the tools and step-by-step guidance to get started. Learn more at www.StartYourPrivatePractice.com. Whether you want to start a practice, grow an existing one, or explore unique practice models, Morgan and Connor’s story shows that with vision, support, and determination, it’s possible to create the freedom, flexibility, and fulfillment you’ve been dreaming of. Visit www.independentclinician.com to learn more. Resources Mentioned:Follow Morgan and Connor on Instagram: instagram.com/speakplayloveclt/ Check out their website: https://www.speakplayloveclt.com/ Where We Can Connect: Follow the Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/private-practice-success-stories/id1374716199 Follow Me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentclinician/ Follow Me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jena.castrocasbon/