In today's episode, Donna interviews Debs, a former NHS physiotherapist who transitioned into a successful Pilates instructor and business owner. Debs shares her journey from working in the NHS for over a decade and specialising in amputee rehabilitation, to establishing her own Pilates studio. She discusses the challenges of bureaucracy in the NHS, her motivations for seeking a more fulfilling career, and the flexibility that self-employment has provided her, especially as a mother. Debs highlights the growing popularity of Pilates, its benefits for physical and mental health, and how her background in physiotherapy enhances her teaching.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The journey from working in the NHS to self-employment can be challenging but rewarding. Many professionals find that developing a side hustle or hybrid role can provide the confidence and financial stability needed to make the leap.

• There has been a significant increase in interest in Pilates, attributed to modern lifestyle stresses and the need for both physical and mental health benefits. Pilates offers a holistic approach to fitness, combining strength, flexibility, and mindfulness.

• Beginner-specific classes and a supportive environment are essential for newcomers to Pilates. Creating a sense of community helps individuals feel more comfortable and encourages them to step out of their comfort zones.

• Skills gained from working in public service, such as empathy, communication, and teamwork, can be effectively applied in self-employment settings. Continuous learning and adaptation are crucial for success in a business environment.

• Self-employment allows for greater flexibility in work hours, which can lead to a better work-life balance. This flexibility can be particularly beneficial for parents or those looking to manage their time more effectively.

BEST MOMENTS

"I always wanted to be a musculoskeletal sports physio, but I ended up being placed in an amputee rehab centre and I loved it."

"I was earning a full-time wage on part-time hours definitely within the first two years."

"Pilates is lovely in the fact that you've got the mindful element to it. It includes a lot of breath work, which helps settle the central nervous system."

"You can get trapped by the fact that you're told that it's an admirable profession, but what it means is you don't ever then explore outside of that bubble."

"We run classes that are specifically for beginners, and that's really nice getting a group of people together."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

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Email: Donna@lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk

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This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.