Have you ever dreamt of running a retreat with your dream clients, in an exotic location, and creating a life-changing experience? You’re not alone—so many therapists are drawn to the idea of hosting retreats. But, before you dive in, let’s have an honest conversation about the realities of running retreats.

In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the good, the bad, and everything no one tells you about running a retreat. I’ll also be sharing some key signs to look out for in your business to know if a retreat is the right fit for you.

Whether you’re dreaming about a retreat, or you’ve already started planning one, this episode is packed with the insights you need to make the best decision for your business.

In this episode, I talk about:

• Why retreats are so appealing to therapists and the common goals many have for running one
• The incredible impact and connection retreats offer, and why they can be so transformational for clients
• The logistical and financial challenges therapists don’t often see coming (and how to avoid them)
• The legal, ethical, and emotional complexities you need to be prepared for
• 5 key signs that your business is ready for a retreat (and how to know if it’s not)

If you’ve been thinking about adding retreats to your business model, make sure to tune in for this deep dive into the world of retreats and what it really takes to run one successfully.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

If you’re enjoying the Therapists Rising podcast, I’d love for you to rate and review the show! This helps me support more therapists and entrepreneurs—just like you—on their journey to building sustainable businesses. Simply head to Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! I’m adding bonus episodes, and if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Therapists Rising Website
• Dr. Hayley Kelly’s Instagram
• Explore more episodes of the Therapists Rising podcast here

You’ve been running your business solo, handling every task yourself—but now you’re ready to take the next big step: building a team. In today’s episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my hiring journey in a special “Unmasked Monthly Musing” episode.

From the first hire to learning how to let go of control, I’m sharing all the behind-the-scenes details of what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons I wish I’d known sooner. Whether you’re making your first hire or looking to scale your team, this episode is packed with real, actionable insights to help you grow your business with confidence.

In this episode, I talk about:

• (3:12) Why I transitioned from working with contractors to employees and how that decision impacted my business
• (6:45) How I figured out my best first hire (spoiler: it was a game-changer!)
• (10:17) The pros and cons of working with contractors vs. hiring employees
• (14:33) The unexpected bumps and challenges I faced with a paid team
• (18:25) What I would do differently to better support my team and my own growth as a leader
• (22:10) My top tips for hiring your first team member

If you’re an entrepreneur ready to grow your team and scale your business, this episode is for you! I’m sharing what I’ve learned about hiring, leadership, and why it’s okay to make mistakes as you grow.

Click here to listen!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Therapists Rising!” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more therapists and entrepreneurs like you. Head to Apple Podcasts, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t already, follow the podcast! I’m adding bonus episodes and, if you’re not following, you might miss out. Follow now!

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with me on Instagram @dr.hayleykelly
• Listen to past episodes of Therapists Rising here therapistsrising.com/podcast

You’ve been hearing all the buzz about AI and how it can revolutionize businesses, but as a therapist building an online program, you’re wondering—how does this apply to me? Well, today’s episode is exactly what you need! I’m not exaggerating when I say this episode could be a game-changer for how you create, grow, and scale your online program.

I’ve brought in an expert who’s been teaching AI to online businesses—Rick Mulready. He’s here to walk us through how therapists can use AI to simplify their business, free up more time, and focus on what matters most—helping people. Trust me, if you’ve been overwhelmed by the thought of AI, this conversation will break it all down and make it easy to understand.

Whether you’re just getting started or already have an online program, you’ll find practical, easy-to-implement strategies to help you use AI to make your business more efficient and streamlined.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• How AI can save you time by repurposing your content into multiple formats (like blog posts, emails, and social media updates) in minutes
• The best AI tools to create lead magnets, structure online programs, and engage your audience without needing a tech background
• How to use AI to identify your audience’s pain points and tailor your content to their needs
• Why you don’t need to be a tech expert to integrate AI into your business (even if you’re a solo entrepreneur)
• How AI can help you create a month’s worth of Instagram posts in under 30 minutes

By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to leverage AI to save time, increase your productivity, and grow your online program with ease.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Dr. Hayley and the Therapist Rising Podcast." <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more therapists — just like you — move toward the thriving practice and life they desire. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you're not following, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Follow now!

Links Mentioned in This Episode:

- Rick Mulready's website
- Visit Rick's YouTube channel
- Join Rick's free school Skool community

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by social media marketing as a therapist, today’s episode is exactly what you need to hear!

Social media can feel like a tricky space, especially when you're used to getting most of your clients through word-of-mouth or referrals. But here's the truth: social media is an incredibly powerful tool that can help you grow your online program and reach new audiences, without feeling like you're selling your soul.

In this episode, I’m diving into some of the most common social media marketing questions I’ve received from therapists who are building online programs. Whether you’re wondering if you really need to show your face on camera, how big your following needs to be to make sales, or if social media is even necessary when you already have referral pathways—this episode has you covered.

Here’s a peek at what we’ll be talking about:

(2:45) Do I need separate social media accounts for my therapy practice and my online program?
I break down the pros and cons, especially considering ethical boundaries and managing client expectations. I'll give you actionable tips for managing both without feeling overwhelmed.

(6:50) Can I grow my online program without relying on social media?
Spoiler alert: Yes, but you’re missing out on a massive opportunity! I'll explain why social media complements your existing referral pathways and helps you scale your message to a broader audience.

(12:30) The pros and cons of faceless marketing
Not ready to show your face on camera? I discuss why face-to-camera content is a powerful tool for building trust and connections, and share easy ways to start small if you’re feeling nervous about visibility.

(19:05) How many followers do I need to make sales?
I debunk the myth that you need thousands of followers to make sales and explain why engagement matters so much more than numbers. Plus, I’ll share practical strategies for increasing engagement and nurturing your existing audience.

If you’ve been wondering how to make social media work for you in a way that feels aligned with your values and your therapeutic mission, this episode is a must-listen!

Listen in, and don’t forget to share this episode with another therapist who might be struggling with social media marketing!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Dr. Hayley and Therapists Rising!” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more therapists—just like you—grow their online programs and reach more people. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

If you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast! I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes, and if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Instagram – Follow me for more tips and behind-the-scenes content!

Creating an online program as a therapist can feel like juggling client sessions, ethical considerations, and tech challenges all at once. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on our recent Incubator launch and share valuable lessons that every therapist venturing into the online space needs to hear. Whether you're an experienced online educator or just starting to explore digital possibilities for your practice, these insights will help you navigate the unique challenges therapists face when expanding beyond the therapy room.

If you're feeling overwhelmed or uncertain about taking your therapy skills online, this episode is your lifeline! I reveal the powerful lessons and mindset shifts that helped us overcome unexpected hurdles and achieve remarkable growth in serving therapists like you. These aren't your typical business tips, but I promise they'll be your secret weapons for boosting your confidence and embracing the journey of becoming a therapist-entrepreneur.

Therapists who can adapt to challenges and continuously improve their online offerings are the ones who will thrive in the digital space while maintaining their clinical integrity. You deserve to be one of those practitioners! You'll walk away from this episode ready to face the unexpected, optimize your content for fellow therapists, and create more value for your clients and colleagues alike.

Today, I talk about:

• (2:20) The unexpected health challenge that threatened to derail our launch (and how we modeled self-care for our community)
• (7:30) Why streamlining our content led to better engagement and results for busy therapists
• (13:40) The power of perceived value and how a simple $49 upgrade transformed our launch and increased participant commitment
• (19:50) The importance of a strong pre-launch strategy and how it grew our email list of therapists by thousands
• (25:15) Why continuous improvement and post-launch debriefs are crucial for long-term success in the online therapy education space

Listen in, and be sure to share this message with a fellow therapist who's considering expanding their impact through online programs!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"I love Dr. Hayley and Therapists Rising." <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more therapists — just like you — move toward expanding your impact and creating additional income streams beyond one-on-one therapy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven't done so already, follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes tailored for therapists entering the online space, and if you're not following, there's a good chance you'll miss out. Follow now!

Links mentioned in this episode:

• The Incubator Program for Therapists
• Therapists Rising Instagram
• Freebie: The Ultimate Guide for Therapists to Create and Sell a Profitable & Impactful Online Program
• Freebie: ChatGPT Prompts to Help Therapists Create an Online
  Program [from Scratch] Quickly and Easily.
• Want to create (or level up) a freebie/lead magnet of your own? This episode deep dives into how to create a great opt-in that will grow your email list by thousands! Tune in here to Episode 108

Are you a therapist struggling with the financial side of your practice? This episode is your guide to gaining financial confidence and creating a thriving business!

In this episode, I sit down with financial expert Amanda Thompson to discuss the unique financial challenges we therapists face and how to overcome them. We dive deep into:

• (2:15) Amanda's journey as a financial planner and her mission to financially empower business owners
• (6:30) The changing landscape of the financial planning industry and its impact on us as therapists
• (10:45) Common financial mistakes we make as therapists and how to avoid them
• (15:20) Reframing our relationship with money as helping professionals
• (20:30) The importance of aligning our financial goals with our personal values
• (26:45) Diversifying income streams and the future of our therapy practices
• (35:10) Tips for becoming our own CFO (Confident, Focused, and On top of our finances)
• (41:25) The most rewarding aspects of financial planning and creating a lasting legacy

Whether you're just starting your private practice or looking to optimize your existing business, this episode provides valuable insights on how we can build financial confidence and create sustainable success.

Ready to take control of your finances? Check out Amanda's book "Financially Fit Women" on Amazon or via her website endurancefinancial.com.au

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"Dr. Hayley Kelly delivers the real deal on business growth for therapists!" <-- If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps more therapists find this valuable content.

To rate and review: Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with 5 stars, and select "Write a Review." Let me know what resonated most with you in this episode!

Also, make sure to follow the podcast so you don't miss any of my future episodes!

As therapists, we're passionate about helping others but often struggle to create sustainable, profitable practices. In this powerful kickoff to the Online Program Blueprint training series, Dr. Hayley Kelly reveals how online programs can transform your therapy business and expand your impact.

With over 3,500 therapists registered for this groundbreaking training, the demand for this knowledge is clear. Dr. Kelly shares her own journey from burnt-out clinician to thriving entrepreneur, along with inspiring case studies of therapists who have successfully made the leap to online programs.

In this episode, Dr. Kelly covers:

• (02:55) Why the traditional therapy model is broken and unsustainable
• (08:55) How online programs allow you to help more people without burning out
• (16:42) The Impact Matrix framework for evaluating your program idea
• (40:35) Real-life success stories of therapists with thriving online programs
• (54:25) Overcoming mindset blocks and imposter syndrome
• (59:55) Next steps to start creating your own online program

Whether you're brand new to online programs or have tried before without success, this training provides the blueprint you need to diversify your practice and increase your impact. Don't miss the rest of this transformative series!

Register for the full Online Program Blueprint Training Series: [LINK]

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "I love Dr. Hayley and the Therapist Rising Podcast." <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! This helps more therapists discover these valuable insights. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then share what you loved most about the episode!

Also, be sure to follow the podcast so you don't miss any future episodes or bonus content.

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Register for the Online Program Blueprint Training Series: [LINK]
• Follow Dr. Hayley on Instagram: [LINK]

🎉 FREE TRAINING: "The Online Program Blueprint for Therapists" Ready to create a successful online program? Join our FREE 3-part workshop series to learn how to:

• Create and sell your program authentically
• Increase income while reducing caseload
• Stay compliant with regulations

Transform your practice and expand your impact. Reserve your spot now

Are you a therapist curious about creating online courses but feeling hesitant due to industry pushback? This episode is your ultimate guide to navigating the choppy waters of course creation in the therapy world!

Holy hell, do I have a spicy topic for you today! I'm diving deep into the controversial world of online program and course creation for therapists, and let me tell you, it's got people more fired up than a cat in a roomba factory.

I'm addressing the recent Facebook post that left many of our colleagues feeling like they'd be tarred and feathered for even thinking about creating an online program. Not cool, folks. Not cool at all.

In this episode, I'm busting myths, dropping truth bombs, and giving you the real scoop on:

• (2:15) The current landscape of online program creation in therapy
• (5:30) Addressing burnout and why courses aren't a magic solution
• (9:45) Debunking the "saturated market" myth with mind-blowing stats
• (14:20) Navigating the identity crisis of being both a therapist and course creator
• (18:35) Who should (and shouldn't) create online programs
• (23:50) Alternative ways to diversify your practice and income

Whether you're team "Hell yeah, I want to create a course!" or "I'd rather eat glass than make an online program," this episode is for you. Because at the end of the day, this conversation is about more than just courses - it's about how we evolve as a profession and support each other in the process.

Ready to explore the world of ethical and impactful course creation? Join our Blueprint training series at https://therapistsrising.com/blueprint. Let's rise together, therapy rockstars!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

"Dr. Hayley Kelly delivers the real deal on business growth for therapists!" <-- If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing the show! Your support helps more therapists find this valuable content. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then let me know what resonated most with you in this episode!

Also, if you haven't already, make sure to follow the podcast so you don't miss any of our episode drops!

Links mentioned in this episode:

• Online Program Blueprint Training Series
• Global Market Insights E-learning Market Report
• Research and Markets Global E-learning Market Analysis