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We’ve gotten asked many times about how and why we started our entrepreneurial journey. So today, we’re diving in!
We started out as outpatient pediatric COTAs (Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants) and saw a gap in our space. So we took a leap to try to fill that gap (almost 4 years ago!) and thanks to you wonderful listeners, we just reached 200 podcast episodes!
We’ve learned a lot along the way and this episode is full of our tips and tricks for success in starting a new business!
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Over the past four years, Rachel and Jessica have shared insights, interviewed experts, and grown a powerful community of parents, therapists, and educators. Today, we're celebrating by diving deep into their occupational therapy (OT) entrepreneurship journey and offering a clear roadmap for anyone looking to launch their own business or side hustle.
Entrepreneurship isn't easy, especially in the therapy world. It requires a strong "why" to motivate you during tough times. Ask yourself:
Are you seeking financial freedom?
Are you passionate about reaching more families?
Are you striving for a better work-life balance?
Your "why" needs to be powerful enough to fuel your journey.
Identify the field you're most passionate about:
Early intervention.
Sensory integration.
Primitive reflex work.
Geriatric care.
School-based therapy.
OT Tip: Aligning your business with your true passion ensures long-term motivation and fulfillment.
Everyone has a skill set that can set them apart. Whether it's public speaking, breaking down complex topics, or designing creative interventions, recognizing your strengths is crucial.
In Rachel and Jessica’s case, they discovered they could make sensory processing fun, accessible, and easy to understand for both parents and therapists.
Before you launch, study what's already available:
Who else is doing what you want to do?
How can you do it better or differently?
Is there a gap you can fill?
Understanding your competition and opportunities will sharpen your strategy.
The business "ducks" you need in a row:
Establish an LLC for legal protection.
Set up a P.O. Box for business mail.
Organize Finances: Use QuickBooks or hire an accountant.
Write a Business Plan: Even a basic one will provide direction.
And don't forget the essentials: create a website, set up social media accounts, and start an email list early on.
Start before you feel "ready."
Consistency is key: Jessica and Rachel have published a podcast episode every week for four years!
Networking matters: Find a community of like-minded professionals.
Pivot when needed: It's okay to change directions based on what you learn.
Partnerships require shared vision:Rachel and Jessica succeeded because they always had the same goal—to help families and therapists.
2017: Launched The Sensory Project (handmade weighted vests).
2018: Started The Sensory Project Show podcast.
2019: Built The Sensory Project Club (membership site).
2020: Created online courses on sensory diets and primitive reflexes.
2021: Merged with Harkla, expanding our reach and resources.
It all started with recording episodes in a front yard with basic equipment, and it grew into a brand that reaches families and therapists worldwide.
Get educated: Read books, listen to podcasts, and attend CEU courses.
Build an email list early: Social media platforms can change, but your email list is yours.
Create before you sell: Sometimes you need to build your expertise and audience before you monetize.
Stay flexible: As your audience grows, their needs may change.
Celebrate milestones: Just like we're celebrating Episode 200 today!
We love connecting with others who are blazing trails. Some of our favorites include:
LG the Fit OT
Therapy OT
OT Flourish
OT 4 Life
Real OTs of EI
If you have a passion, just start. It won't be perfect, but it will be powerful. Entrepreneurship is a journey of growth—for you and the families you serve.
"Small, consistent steps lead to big transformations."
Jessica and Rachel, thank you for being part of their journey. Here's to 200 episodes—and many more milestones ahead!
BORING, BUT NECESSARY LEGAL DISCLAIMERS
While we make every effort to share correct information, we are still learning. We will double check all of our facts but realize that medicine is a constantly changing science and art. One doctor / therapist may have a different way of doing things from another. We are simply presenting our views and opinions on how to address common sensory challenges, health related difficulties and what we have found to be beneficial that will be as evidenced based as possible. By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or your children. Consult your child’s pediatrician/ therapist for any medical issues that he or she may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any guests or contributors to the podcast. Under no circumstances shall Rachel Harrington, Harkla, Jessica Hill, or any guests or contributors to the podcast, as well as any employees, associates, or affiliates of Harkla, be responsible for damages arising from use of the podcast.
Keep in mind that we may receive commissions when you click our links and make purchases. However, this does not impact our reviews and comparisons. We try our best to keep things fair and balanced, in order to help you make the best choice for you.
This podcast should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing “standard of care” in a legal sense or as a basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on the podcast.
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