Welcome to your companion guide for the panel discussion "How OTPs Can Rewrite the Rules: Side Hustles, Software, and Starting Small." If you're an occupational therapy practitioner (OTP) looking to break free from traditional models of care and explore new, scalable business opportunities—this one's for you.
Meet the Panelists
Each panelist brings not only experience but also innovation and heart to the OT entrepreneur space:
Dr. Brandy Archie, OTD, OTR/L, CLIPP
Founder of AskSAMIE and OT Connected, Brandy is a tech-forward innovator focused on bridging the gap between clients and adaptive equipment or services. With a passion for system change and a knack for turning everyday OT challenges into scalable tech solutions, she’s a guiding light for clinicians looking to create lasting impact.
Emilia Bourland, OTR, ECHM, CFPS
Emilia wears many entrepreneurial hats—co-founder of Senior AI and founder of Higher Standards Caregiver Training. Her mission: empower both family and professional caregivers with actionable, evidence-based strategies. She’s all about automating wisely and scaling sustainably without sacrificing personal balance.
Maria Lindbergh, MOT, OTR/L, ECHM
Maria brings her humor and heart to Toilet Talk, an online resource packed with candid toileting tips and safe bathroom solutions. With a background in home modifications and experience directing clinical ops at a national startup, she knows how to build a brand that’s bold, educational, and absolutely necessary.
What You'll Hear in the Webinar
The panelists dive deep into:
- Why and how they left traditional clinical roles
- Starting a business without business school
- Navigating pivots, burnout, and scaling
- Using affordable tech tools to automate and grow
- Future trends and business opportunities for OTPs
Whether you're considering a side hustle or ready to go full-time, this webinar is packed with real talk, encouraging wisdom, and practical advice.
Key Actionable Takeaways
1. Start Small, Start Smart
- You don't need thousands of dollars to start. Use free or low-cost tools like SCORE, local Small Business Development Centers, and Squarespace for DIY websites.
- Test software before you commit—nothing should feel like a ball and chain 🔗.
2. Get a Mentor or Join a Mastermind
- Peer support or guidance from someone who's been there (even outside of OT) is invaluable.
- These groups often serve as both encouragement and accountability to help you push through tough spots.
- P.S. This is also what OTConnected is here for too! Find an OT willing to connect in your niche or who has been through this business thing!
3. Automate with a CRM
- Use tools like Keap, HubSpot, or HoneyBook to streamline client communication, follow-ups, and operations. A good CRM keeps you out of the weeds and focused on growth while the people you want to connect with still feel a direct connection with you!
4. Design a Business That Fits Your Life
- Business should support your lifestyle, not drain it. Each panelist shared examples of how their business evolved to reflect their family needs and energy levels.
- Making a pivot is a calculated decision to help reach the ultimate goal. It’s not failure, it’s jsut a change in method, not unlike what you tell your patients to help them adapt!
5. OT Skills Go Beyond the Clinic
- The panelists emphasized how OTPs are needed in tech, caregiver education, universal design, maternal health, accessibility consulting, and even real estate.
- Don’t wait for permission—your scope and value are bigger than the healthcare system allows.
Final Words from the Panelists
"You don’t have to do it all alone, and you don’t have to follow the old rules." That’s the core message from this dynamic group of OT founders. Whether you’re building a side hustle, launching a startup, or redefining your role as a practitioner—this webinar will leave you empowered, equipped, and excited for what’s next.