Advertise on podcast: The Move. Talk. Thrive. Podcast

Lizzy Dawson and Emily Mackie answer a listener question about Virtual Assistants and how they use them to support their businesses. From onboarding and systems to delegation and consistency, they share practical tips for making VAs a valuable part of your team.Perfect for startup owners, clinicians, and solo operators ready to free up time and mental energy. 🎧 For business owners and clinicians who want sustainable growth,  not overwhelm. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.ThriveIf this episode helped you rethink delegation, systems, or how you spend your time, share it with a fellow business owner or clinician who might benefit. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

Lizzy Dawson and Emily Mackie kick off 2026 with an honest conversation about planning for the year ahead while honouring very different life seasons. From business growth and maternity to energy protection and sustainable pacing, they explore why goals need to be flexible , and why calm, steady progress beats burnout every time. With Lizzy’s “Zone 2” business analogy and Emily’s reflections on motherhood, leadership, and delegation, this episode is for anyone navigating growth without sacrificing their health, family, or sense of self. 🎧 For business owners, clinicians, parents, and high achievers who want sustainable success not hustle. Stay ConnectedFollow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes → Move.Talk.Thrive ConnectEmily Mackie → @emilymackie.speechie | emilymackie.com.auLizzy Dawson → @lizzydawson_ | lizzydawson.com.au

In this solo episode of Move Talk Thrive, Lizzy Dawson shares a gentle, intentional approach to reflecting on the year that’s been — and planning ahead without burnout. Lizzy invites listeners to look beyond unfinished goals and focus on wins, lessons, patterns, and growth across personal life, leadership, and business. She shares simple reflection and journaling prompts you can use in 10 minutes or over a full day. Perfect for clinicians, business owners, parents, and anyone wanting to move forward with clarity, values, and sustainability. In this episode: Why reflection supports sustainable growth Identifying wins and the systems behind them Reframing challenges as teachers Noticing patterns in energy and leadership Simple prompts you can revisit anytime Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates , whether you’re a parent navigating school transition, a clinician supporting families, or a business owner planning services, share it with someone who needs reassurance that transition takes time. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode of Move Talk Thrive, Emily and Lizzy unpack the transition to school through three lenses: parent, clinician, and business owner. They explore why school transition isn’t a single moment, but an ongoing process; from preschool to Kindy, new grades, new teachers, changing routines, and shifting expectations. Drawing on real-life parenting experiences and clinical insight, they discuss how predictability, emotional regulation, consistency, and communication play a key role in supporting children during times of change. The conversation also touches on therapy during school transition, why maintaining support can be protective rather than overwhelming, and how clinicians and businesses can build flexible systems that truly support families. This episode is a grounding reminder that readiness isn’t about perfection, it’s about adaptability, values, and grace. Key Takeaways Transition is a process, not a single day Consistency supports regulation during big changes Therapy can help during transition, not just before or after School readiness goes beyond academics Calm, regulated adults help children feel safe Values-driven systems allow flexibility without burnout Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy have a candid, practical conversation about navigating the end-of-year season while juggling multiple roles; clinician, business owner, parent, partner, and more. They unpack the realities of this time of year: clinic closures, financial pinch, school holidays, gift-giving pressures, and year-end exhaustion. Sharing their rituals, systems, and lessons, they offer tools to transition out of the busy season with calm, from budgeting and holiday program planning to clearing spaces and letting go of unrealistic expectations. Key Takeaways: Financial wobble is normal – early budgeting, systemising programs, and saving leave eases stress. Preparation starts early – map schedules and logistics months ahead to avoid a December scramble. Rest matters – mental health is essential; burnout prevention is part of leadership. Structure is key – plan your first week back, clear workspaces, prioritize tasks. Release perfectionism – not everything needs finishing before December 24. Create restorative spaces at home – reset, declutter, and carve out calm zones. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you feel seen as a clinician or business owner, share it with someone who might need support heading into the holidays. Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch episodes on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Emily Website: emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Connect with LizzyWebsite: lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily gets honest about a feeling so many clinicians and leaders know well — being stuck in a rut. When your work feels heavier, your creativity dips, or everything starts to feel a bit “meh,” it can be tough to know what’s next. Emily shares why ruts happen, what they’re trying to tell us, and the small, doable steps that help you get moving again. Drawing from her own seasons of transition, business growth, and new motherhood, she highlights the patterns she sees in herself and the clinicians she mentors. If you’re feeling flat, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your “why,” this episode will help you name what’s draining you and gently rebuild momentum — one tiny shift at a time. Key Takeaways Feeling stuck is normal — and often a sign of a turning point. Decision fatigue and comparison are major motivation thieves. Your “why” isn’t gone; it’s buried. Reconnect with it. Small wins spark movement. Accountability and energy-lifting people matter. You don’t need mastery — just one step forward. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates with you, share it with a colleague, a friend, or anyone who needs a reminder that motivation returns — one small step at a time. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily sits down with her business bestie Lizzy for an honest conversation about goals, burnout, resilience, and what it means to pivot when life doesn’t go to plan. Lizzy opens up about her five-year New York Marathon goal — and how illness, overwhelm, and anxiety led her to make the hardest (and most aligned) decision: not running it. They unpack what it looks like to listen to your body, choose rest, make values-based decisions, and let go of goals that no longer serve you. They also dive into business ownership, leadership, systems, and how taking a real holiday transformed Lizzy’s clarity, wellbeing, and team. Key Takeaways:• Letting go can be growth.• Your nervous system speaks first.• Systems create freedom.• Rest isn’t optional.• Do the work only you can do.• Goals evolve — and that’s okay. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If Lizzy’s story resonates with you — whether you’re a clinician, business owner, or someone who’s ever questioned a goal — share this episode with a friend who needs the reminder that it’s okay to pivot. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily sits down with pediatric occupational therapist and Move About co-founder Dave Jereb to talk about something many clinicians think about but rarely discuss openly: relocation. They explore how moving — whether to a new city, state, or lifestyle — connects to burnout, career growth, workplace culture, and overall wellbeing. Dave shares his own relocation experiences, from the U.S. to Sydney to the Central Coast, and how aligning decisions with values shaped both his work and life. A practical, encouraging episode for students, new grads, and clinicians considering change, balance, or a fresh start. Key Takeaways Relocation is values-driven: Know your why. Burnout isn’t about hours: Misalignment drains more than workload. Competence protects you: Push through the learning dip. Lifestyle matters: Nature, community, and environment impact wellbeing. Culture counts: Visit workplaces — real culture is felt, not advertised. You can do hard things: Growth requires leaning into discomfort. Resources Coastal Lifestyle Campaign:https://moveabout.mykajabi.com/ourcOasTallifestyle Move About Careers (resources + scorecard):https://www.moveabout.com.au/careers/ Workplace Scorecard — Is your paediatric OT workplace working for you? https://dave-n3wfmo2w.scoreapp.com/ Stay Connected Instagram: @movetalkthrive YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Emily & Lizzy Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Connect with Dave Jereb LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-jereb/ Instagram: @davejereb_ot Move About: @moveabout.ot

In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy turn the focus from children to the adults who support them — the employees, clinicians, and leaders feeling the strain of end-of-year fatigue. As reports pile up, diaries fill, and festive logistics take over, they unpack what it truly means to “finish well” — without tipping into burnout. Drawing from their own experiences as business owners, they explore how to support teams through this demanding season, maintain co-regulation in the workplace, and balance forward planning with being present. Key Takeaways Co-regulation matters at every level: The energy you bring to your team influences everyone around you. Work smarter, not harder: Finishing well isn’t about doing more — it’s about creating clarity, structure, and support. Reflection over perfection: Take time to check in with yourself and your team — what worked, what didn’t, and how you want to show up next year. Shift from hustle to gratitude: Appreciation and acknowledgement boost morale far more than last-minute productivity pushes. Clarity calms chaos: Be clear about priorities — and let go of what can wait until the new year. Finish with intention: Ask yourself — How do I want to feel when the year ends? Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates with how you’re feeling heading into the end of the year, share it with a fellow clinician, teacher, or teammate who could use a reminder to slow down and reflect. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy dive into the end-of-year chaos every parent, teacher, and pediatric professional knows too well — when everyone’s tired, routines fall apart, and regulation goes out the window. As clinicians and mums, they talk through what this season looks like in their own homes and clinics, why tired kids struggle more with regulation, and how small adjustments can make a big difference. From keeping routines simple to weaving movement and play into therapy, they share strategies for helping children (and adults!) stay calm and connected as the year wraps up. Key Takeaways Routines provide security: Keeping predictable rhythms helps children feel safe and grounded. Movement regulates: Incorporate movement — from obstacle courses to outdoor play — to support attention and emotional balance. Connection before correction: Co-regulation and therapist–child connection are key to navigating dysregulation. Adjust expectations: Simplify goals and focus on achievable wins that align with the season’s energy. Support parents: Offer realistic strategies that fit easily into daily routines. Consistency counts: Maintaining therapy helps stabilize regulation and progress, even when things feel chaotic. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates with your own late-year experiences, share it with a fellow clinician, teacher, or parent who might need the reminder that “good enough” is sometimes exactly what’s needed. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy unpack a habit we all fall into from time to time — procrastination. Whether it’s putting off paperwork, avoiding tricky conversations, or feeling stuck in a cycle of “I’ll do it later,” procrastination often isn’t about laziness, it’s about what’s happening underneath. Drawing from their own experiences in business and clinical work, Emily and Lizzy explore the psychology behind procrastination, the emotional triggers that fuel it, and the small mindset shifts that make it easier to take action. They share practical strategies for breaking through mental blocks; from setting micro-goals and finding your “why,” to using accountability, energy management, and even fun rewards to keep momentum going. You’ll also hear how perfectionism, fear of feedback, and unclear goals all play into the procrastination loop and how reframing these patterns can help you and your team move forward with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways Procrastination isn’t laziness: It’s often a response to overwhelm, fear, or unclear direction. Find your “why”: Connecting the task to a meaningful outcome helps unlock motivation. Perfectionism fuels paralysis: “Progress over perfection” helps build momentum. Energy and regulation matter: Manage your physical and emotional energy before tackling hard tasks. Accountability helps: Whether it’s a mentor, colleague, or plan, external check-ins can keep you on track. Make it enjoyable: Change your environment, add small rewards, or make the task fun to reduce resistance. Feedback isn’t failure: Reframing feedback as fuel for growth builds resilience and confidence. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode got you thinking about your own procrastination patterns, share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow clinician who might need a gentle nudge too. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy dive into a pattern many clinicians and caregivers know all too well — people pleasing.From the workplace to home life, the instinct to help, fix, or keep the peace often comes from a place of kindness  but when left unchecked, it can lead straight to burnout. Drawing from their personal experiences and years of work across Allied Health, Emily and Lizzy unpack how to recognize the signs of overgiving, what healthy boundaries look like, and how to care deeply without losing yourself in the process. They explore the emotional layers behind people pleasing, the impact on your wellbeing and professional growth, and small, realistic shifts that make a big difference in everyday interactions.Whether you’re a new grad learning to find your voice, a clinician navigating team dynamics, or a parent trying to model healthy limits — this episode offers practical tools and gentle reminders to help you thrive without overextending. Key Takeaways Awareness is the first step: Notice when “helping” turns into overcommitting or self-sacrifice. Boundaries protect connection: Saying “no” or “not now” can actually strengthen trust and respect. People pleasing often masks fear: It’s usually rooted in wanting to feel valued or avoid conflict. Compassion goes both ways: Extend the same care to yourself that you offer others. Burnout isn’t a badge: Overextension isn’t proof of passion — sustainability is. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode made you pause and reflect on how you show up for others (and yourself), share it with a friend, colleague, or fellow clinician who might need to hear it too.Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode, Emily and Lizzy sit down with Mollie-May Bennett, an Allied Health recruiter from Brightside Recruitment, to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing the sector right now — finding balance between pay, sustainability, and genuine support. Drawing on her experience across Allied Health, the NDIS, and Aged Care, Mollie-May shares what’s really happening in the current job market;  from inflated salaries and clinician burnout to the growing need for values-aligned recruitment. Together, they explore how both clinicians and business owners can make more informed, sustainable choices when it comes to hiring, career growth, and retention. Whether you’re a new grad navigating job offers, an early-career clinician weighing up your next move, or a business owner wanting to attract and keep great people, this conversation will help you make grounded, confident decisions in an ever-changing landscape. Key Takeaways A big paycheque doesn’t equal real support: Short-term incentives often mask long-term burnout risks. Ask the right questions: You’re interviewing the employer just as much as they’re interviewing you. Sustainability matters: Staggered KPIs, realistic billables, and gradual ramp-up periods make for happier teams. Beware the “shiny things”: Cars, laptops and inflated salaries can’t replace supervision, mentorship and growth. Culture counts: The best workplaces are transparent, values-driven, and genuinely supportive. Support needs structure: Regular supervision, meaningful check-ins and open communication prevent burnout. Recruitment is about relationships: Long-term fit and shared values matter far more than a quick hire. About Our Guest Expert Mollie-May BennettRecruitment Consultant | Brightside Recruitment Business Details: Website: https://brightsiderecruitment.com.au Social Media: LinkedIn: Mollie-May Bennett Company LinkedIn: Brightside Recruitment AU Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you rethink what real support looks like, share it with a colleague, supervisor or fellow clinician who might need to hear it. Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with the Hosts: Emily Mackie – www.emilymackie.com.au | Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson – www.lizzydawson.com.au | Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this solo episode, Emily dives into a topic close to every early-career clinician’s heart; what true support really means in your first year as an allied health professional. Drawing from over 16 years of experience as a speech pathologist and business owner, she unpacks the difference between “having someone around to ask questions” and building a structured, values-driven support system that helps new grads thrive, not just survive. From supervision and systems to workplace culture and red flags to watch out for, Emily offers a grounded, practical roadmap for both new graduates entering the field and leaders wanting to create safer, more nurturing workplaces. Key Takeaways True support is structured, not spontaneous: Weekly (or daily) supervision beats an “open-door policy” every time. Observation without judgment: Safe feedback and the chance to watch others in action accelerate growth. Build gradually: Avoid overwhelming case loads—progressive onboarding prevents burnout. Systems and resources matter: Consistent frameworks and materials support clinical confidence. Culture counts: Growth happens where mistakes are seen as learning, not failure. Red flags to note: No induction process, overwork normalization, or “checklist-only” supervision. Leaders set the tone: Empathy, transparency, and clear expectations create thriving teams. Align your values: Choose (or build) workplaces that reflect who you want to become—not just who will hire you first. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you reflect on what support really means, share it with a fellow clinician, supervisor, or friend who’s navigating their first year in allied health. Follow us on Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_

In this episode, Lizzy and Emily break down interviews from both sides of the table; what employers are really looking for, how new grads can prepare, and why interviews should be seen as a two-way process. They share practical tips on preparation, values-based hiring, and the power of vulnerability, plus insights on building strong teams and choosing the right workplace. Key Takeaways Interviews are a two-way process. Preparation and thoughtful questions go a long way. Values and attitude often matter more than clinical knowledge. Tools like DISC profiling and team observations improve hiring matches. Vulnerability shows honesty and self-awareness. The best hires complement team strengths, not duplicate them. Support and professional development are non-negotiables for new grads. Every interview is a chance for employers to refine their process. Shared vision unites diverse personalities in the workplace. The right workplace sets the stage for long-term career satisfaction. Resources & Links: From Aspiring Student to Successful Speechie by Emily Mackie Lizzy’s online clinical courses Preschool Language Accelerator with Emily Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive Instagram: @movetalkthrive YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Lizzy Dawson – Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au | Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie – Website: www.emilymackie.com.au | Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie