Conferences are packed with potential—but only if you show up with a plan. In this episode of The PA Is In, Tracy shares five simple, impactful steps to help you get the most out of your next conference experience, whether you’re attending for CME, connection, job hunting, or just a fresh dose of inspiration.

You’ll learn how to clarify your goals, build an intentional schedule, prioritize rest (yes, really), and turn your time away from home into something meaningful—not overwhelming.

You’ll walk away with:

 * A 5-step strategy to make any conference worth the investment
   

 * Real-life tips to network with confidence and purpose
   

 * Encouragement to schedule rest, reflection, and FUN into your conference plans
   

 * Permission to attend with intention and leave fulfilled

SPONSORS:

⁠SERMO⁠ [https://app.sermo.com:443/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend] -- https://app.sermo.com:443/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend

⁠WRITE CME ACCELERATOR⁠ [https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420] -- ⁠https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420 ⁠ [https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420]

⁠SIDE GIG GUIDE⁠ [https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig] - ⁠https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig⁠ [https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig]

🔗 Resources & Links:

 * 📥⁠ Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot ⁠ [https://www.tracybingaman.com/part-time]

 * 📅 ⁠Book a 1:1 Coaching Call⁠ [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/part-time-provider] to build your personalized transition plan ⁠⁠ [https://tracybingaman.com/negotiation-consult]

🛤 ⁠Join Pathway to Part-Time⁠ [https://tracybingaman.com/pathway] – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence

Keywords: conference tips for PAs, CME conference strategy, how to network at medical conferences, physician associate career growth, healthcare conference planning, clinical conference prep, PA conference checklist, make the most of medical conferences, AAPA conference advice, job hunting at conferences, networking for PAs, conference schedule strategy, PA career coaching, burnout prevention for clinicians, work-life balance in medicine, PA podcast episodes, Tracy Bingaman, The PA Is In

319: [CME] How to Make the Most of Your Next CME Conference

I always enjoy discussing Unicorn positions with other clinicians - jobs they’ve found that light them up, utilize their skills, and align with their core values. I especially adore learning how clinicians have made the leap from clinical jobs to non-clinical careers. My guest today did just that!

Dr. Alexandra Howson started her career as a trauma nurse before transitioning into academia. But for the past 20 years, Alex has been an independent freelance CME writer. In today’s episode, Alex describes how she found medical writing as a career, and how you can get into CME writing, too. 

Alex discusses how medical professionals are especially suited to work in CME writing, as well as how to do a skills assessment to determine your unique skill set you can utilize as a CME writer. 

We also talk about making the transition from a W2 employee to a self-employed freelancer and how this can affect your professional identity. Alex provides actionable tips on how to set up a successful freelance career that aligns with your core values. 

If you’ve ever thought about transitioning to a non-clinical career or starting a side gig from home, then CME writing may be for you! Press play to learn more. 



✍️🎓💻

Do you want to get started in building your own freelance business as a CME writer but don’t know where to begin? WriteCME Accelerator [https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420] is your answer! WriteCME Accelerator is a comprehensive, yearlong program that helps freelance medical writers build and grow sustainable businesses in CME. You’ll receive expert training, live coaching, and yearlong access to a private community. Click this link to join now [https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420].





SPONSORS 🏆

Side Gig Guide [https://tracybingaman.com/gig]: https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig



Sermo [https://app.sermo.com/register/start?refid=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend]: https://app.sermo.com/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend





CONNECT WITH ALEX 💬

LinkedIn: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhowson/ [https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Falexhowson%2F&user_uuid=f68bfbe3-bcc8-4b48-aa22-b040a1454e17&stage=1&hmac=5cdcbd03a704bf5e306f6a3399ab945cc708d7132a7bdb96384ccaab8562b487] https://www.linkedin.com/company/writemedicine/ [https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fwritemedicine%2F&user_uuid=f68bfbe3-bcc8-4b48-aa22-b040a1454e17&stage=1&hmac=a2fd526b35d84d35d9449904430ffd14923f0811e16160d7f33cced20d2e9b47] https://www.linkedin.com/company/writecme-pro [https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fcompany%2Fwritecme-pro&user_uuid=f68bfbe3-bcc8-4b48-aa22-b040a1454e17&stage=1&hmac=4e6ae0c858a3c387de184653c9f2e6d520d59551c5448b346fe723e7be78109c] 

Websites:

https://www.writemedicine.com/ [https://calendly.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.writemedicine.com%2F&user_uuid=f68bfbe3-bcc8-4b48-aa22-b040a1454e17&stage=1&hmac=5fca3e6a0e565fe888dc4c566125e7acff15d2819e38d31c04a7c0fd0300b455] 

318: [UNICORN] Making the Leap From Trauma Nurse to Freelance CME Writer

What if your income didn’t rely on just one paycheck? In this episode of The PA Is In, I’m pulling back the curtain on the 7 ways I’ve made money—both as a practicing PA and outside of traditional medicine.

From PRN surgery coverage and one-on-one coaching to podcast sponsorships and paid speaking gigs, you’ll hear exactly how I’ve diversified my income over the years. Some streams were short-lived, others turned into thriving businesses—and all of them helped build financial freedom for my family.

Whether you're burned out and looking for options, or you're simply ready to expand your earning potential, this episode will inspire you to take the first step.

🎧 Tune in and download your free Side Gig Guide with 48 ideas for clinicians at: tracybingaman.com/gig [https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig]



SPONSORS:

SERMO [https://app.sermo.com:443/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend] -- https://app.sermo.com:443/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend



WRITE CME ACCELERATOR [https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420] -- https://www.alexhowson.com/write-cme-pro?affiliate_code=314420



SIDE GIG GUIDE [https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig] - https://www.tracybingaman.com/gig



🔗 Resources & Links:

📥 Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot
[https://www.tracybingaman.com/part-time]

📅 Book a 1:1 Coaching Call [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/part-time-provider] to build your personalized transition plan




https://tracybingaman.com/negotiation-consult


🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time [https://tracybingaman.com/pathway] – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence



Keywords: physician assistant side hustle, PA side gig ideas, make money outside medicine, clinician career coaching, financial independence healthcare, PA coaching, burnout recovery, CME writer jobs, side income for PAs, passive income for clinicians, PA podcast, healthcare content writing, group coaching programs for PAs, negotiate your salary PA, work from home medical jobs, nonclinical jobs for PAs, speaking as a PA, PRN surgery jobs, physician assistant income streams, how to start a podcast

317: [WORK] Beyond the Bedside: 7 Ways to Make Money Outside of Medicine

There’s a lot of noise out there about “scope creep” in healthcare. But instead of letting fear and false narratives distract us, it’s time to shift our focus to what really matters.

In this episode, I’m breaking down five powerful areas where PAs should be putting their energy:

 * Building strong, trust-based patient relationships

 * Investing in ongoing professional development

 * Cultivating mentorship and sponsorship

 * Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries

 * Advocating for the PA profession

These are the things that truly move the needle—for our careers, our patients, and our collective future as PAs.

Resources & Links

🔗 Join Sermo [https://app.sermo.com:443/?sermoref=39d97a2c-f699-4f8b-b2f9-1eb131e18c75&utm_campaign=tell-a-friend]

📄 Free Download: Side Gig Guide [https://tracybingaman.com/gig]

🎓 Coaching & Programs: The Part-Time Pathway [https://tracybingaman.com/pathway]

💬 Let’s Connect on LinkedIn: @tracybingaman [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybingaman/]

🌐 Website: https://www.tracybingaman.comwww.tracybingaman.com [http://www.tracybingaman.com]



Keywords: scope creep healthcare, PA profession, physician associate career, burnout prevention, work-life balance, PA advocacy, mentorship in medicine, setting boundaries in healthcare, physician assistant role, professional development for PAs, clinical skills, PA career growth, prevent burnout, PA career strategy, professional boundaries, PA mentorship, healthcare advocacy, clinician sustainability, work-life integration for PAs, top of license practice



316: [WORK] 5 Things PAs Should Focus On Instead of Scope Creep

How to Make a Part-Time Pivot Without Risking Your Financial Stability

Going part-time sounds dreamy—more freedom, flexibility, and control over your life. But if you’re the primary income earner or your family relies on your paycheck, the idea can feel more like a terrifying leap off a financial cliff than a gentle pivot.

In this episode, Tracy breaks that leap down into manageable, bite-sized steps that let you transition into part-time work without sacrificing your financial security or peace of mind.

You’ll walk away with a 5-step strategy to test, prepare for, and execute a part-time pivot in a way that feels safe, smart, and sustainable.

🎧 Inside this episode:

 * Why going part-time feels so risky—and how to reduce that fear
   

 * The #1 mindset shift to help you feel more in control
   

 * 5 steps to transition to part-time without financial panic
   

 * Scripts to negotiate a gradual schedule shift and better pay
   

 * Real stories of providers who made the leap safely and successfully
   

This isn’t about jumping and hoping you land—this is about building the staircase that takes you down with confidence.


🔗 Resources & Links:

 * 📥 Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot
   [https://www.tracybingaman.com/part-time]

 * 📅 Book a 1:1 Coaching Call [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/part-time-provider] to build your personalized transition plan
   

🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time [https://tracybingaman.com/pathway] – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence



Keywords:

part-time transition, how to go part-time, physician associate part-time, part-time without losing income, transition steps for clinicians, reduce clinical hours, smooth part-time pivot, budget test run, phased work transition, hourly pay negotiation, productivity-based pay, PA salary transition, part-time pay strategies, financial buffer for career change, coaching for PAs, side gigs for clinicians, part-time income protection, backup plan for part-time, strategic career change for healthcare providers



315: [WORK] Breaking Down the Leap: How to Transition to Part-Time in Small, Strategic Steps

Proven Strategies to Earn More While Working Less

What if cutting your hours didn’t mean cutting your income? In this episode, Tracy unpacks exactly how to negotiate your compensation when you make the leap to part-time work—and spoiler alert: you can earn more while working less.

Most clinicians default to accepting prorated salaries without question, but that doesn’t have to be your story. There are smarter, more strategic ways to structure your pay—and this episode shows you how to ask for them with confidence.

💼 Inside this episode:

 * The biggest mistake providers make when going part-time
   

 * 4 specific negotiation strategies to maximize pay
   

 * Phrases to use in your negotiation meeting
   

 * Susie’s story: how she dropped 20+ hours/week and increased her income
   

 * Why how you get paid matters just as much as how much
   

Whether you’re considering part-time or already there and ready to earn more, this episode is packed with tools to help you advocate for what you’re worth.





🔗 Resources & Links:

 * 📥 Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot
   [https://www.tracybingaman.com/part-time]

 * 📅 Book a 1:1 Coaching Call [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/part-time-provider] to build your personalized transition plan
   


🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time [https://tracybingaman.com/pathway] – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence



Keywords:

negotiate part-time pay, work less earn more, PA salary negotiation, how to negotiate as a PA, cutting clinical hours, part-time physician associate, negotiating hourly rate, RVU-based compensation, productivity pay models, clinician bonus structure, premium shift differentials, PA part-time pay, increase income part-time, clinician career coaching, provider compensation strategies, how to avoid prorated salary



314: [WORK] How to Negotiate Maximum Pay While Cutting Your Hours

A Mindset Exercise to Help You Make the Right Decision with Confidence

You’re staring down a big decision—going part-time. And with it? A mountain of fear and doubt. What if you regret it? What if it messes with your finances or your identity as a healthcare provider? What if you can’t go back?

These fears are totally normal—but they don’t get to drive your decisions.

In this episode, Tracy walks you through a powerful mindset exercise to help you untangle fear from fact, evaluate your “what ifs,” and make a confident, informed decision about going part-time.

🎧 You’ll learn:

 * Why fear is normal—but not in charge
   

 * A 4-step “Fear vs. Reality” exercise to gain clarity
   

 * How to plan for worst-case and best-case scenarios
   

 * What confidence really looks like (hint: it’s not certainty)
   

 * One simple step to move forward with purpose
   

🎯 If you’re wrestling with fear and indecision, this episode will help you feel grounded, prepared, and in control.





🔗 Resources & Links:

 * 📥 Download the 5-Step Guide to a Smooth Part-Time Pivot
   [https://www.tracybingaman.com/part-time]

 * 📅 Book a 1:1 Coaching Call [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/part-time-provider] to build your personalized transition plan
   


🛤 Join Pathway to Part-Time [https://tracybingaman.com/pathway] – the group coaching program designed to help you shift with clarity and confidence



Keywords: going part-time as a PA, part-time transition healthcare, fear of regret career change, mindset for change, fear vs reality exercise, overcoming doubt, confidence in decision making, part-time schedule pros and cons, PA burnout recovery, physician associate part-time work, part-time lifestyle, work-life balance for clinicians, coaching for PAs, healthcare career pivot, planning a part-time transition

313: [LIFE] What if I Regret Going Part-Time? Overcoming Fear & Doubt

Thinking about going part-time?

Pause right there.



Before you submit your request or fantasize about slow mornings and midweek hikes, there are 4 critical conversations you need to have first—because adjusting your schedule isn’t just about hours. It’s about your identity, finances, career trajectory, and relationships.

In this episode, I’m giving you the blueprint to transition with clarity, confidence, and support by walking you through the exact conversations you must have—with yourself, your partner, your financial advisor, and your employer—before making the leap.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to redefine your identity when you’re not working full-time

✅ How to get your partner on board without starting WWIII

✅ The money questions you must answer to avoid future regret

✅ How to present a compelling business case to your employer—and what to say when they push back

💡 Whether you're craving flexibility, protecting your peace, or working toward sustainability in medicine, these conversations are non-negotiable.

📌 Resources mentioned:

 * Free Guide: 5-Step Part-Time Pivot [https://tracybingaman.com/part-time]

 * Book a 1:1 Strategy Call [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/part-time-provider]

 * Join the Part-Time Pathway Program [https://www.tracybingaman.com/pathway]
   
   
   
   
   part-time clinician, part-time PA, going part-time in healthcare, work-life balance, transition to part-time, part-time work schedule, burnout recovery, healthcare burnout, career change in medicine, PA career advice, physician associate part-time, flexible work schedule, reduce clinical hours, negotiate part-time, PA negotiation tips, talk to employer about schedule change, part-time doctor, clinician identity, medical career transition, work less live more
   
   

312: [WORK] Want to Go Part-Time? 4 Conversations You Must Have First

I’m continuing our Back to Basics money series with PA and financial guru, Sarah Miller. Today, Sarah and I discuss all types of savings goals. Whether you’re saving for a short-term goal, medium-term goal, or long-term goal, we cover it all. 

Sarah defines what constitutes these different types of goals and gives examples for each. She also discusses where we should be keeping the money for each type of savings goal. Tune in to learn how to optimize your savings!

Sarah is a personal finance nerd who learned about finances and investing from an early age from her father and grandfather, who both spent their careers in the corporate finance world. As an adult, Sarah immersed herself in the personal finance and FIRE spheres, learning from top experts. Sarah is my personal go-to for all financial questions, and she’s here to share her knowledge with all of you!





SPONSORS

Pathway to Part-Time Coaching [https://tracybingaman.myflodesk.com/part-time/checkout]: https://tracybingaman.myflodesk.com/part-time/checkout

Drink LMNT [http://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/tracybingaman]: http://elementallabs.refr.cc/default/u/tracybingaman



CONNECT WITH SARAH

Email: sjmvirtualsolutions@gmail.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarah-miller-pa-va/ [http://linkedin.com/in/sarah-miller-pa-va/]



RESOURCES

Previous episodes in Back to Basics Money Series: 

283: Back to Basics: Meet Sarah [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/283-money-back-to-basics-meet-sarah/id1534076810?i=1000670763912]

287: Back to Basics: What Actually IS Investing? [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/287-money-back-to-basics-what-actually-is-investing/id1534076810?i=1000674273193]

290: Back to Basics: Traditional versus Roth - What’s the Difference? [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/290-money-back-to-basics-traditional-versus-roth-whats/id1534076810?i=1000676935248]

293: Back to Basics: The Best Investments for Long-Term Success [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/293-money-back-to-basics-the-best-investments-for/id1534076810?i=1000679327843]

296: Back to Basics: How Much Money Do I Need to Retire? [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/296-money-back-to-basics-how-much-money-do-i-need-to-retire/id1534076810?i=1000681735036]





COACHING

⁠1-ON-1 NEGOTIATION CONSULT https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/negotiate⁠ 

⁠FREE 30-MINUTE COACHING CONSULT⁠ ⁠https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/gen-call⁠ [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/gen-call] 



LINKS

EPISODE BLOG POST https://www.tracybingaman.com/blog

⁠TRACY ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/mrstracybingaman/⁠

⁠TRACY ON LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybingama [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybingaman/%E2%81%A0]

311: [MONEY] Back to Basics: Short-, Medium-, and Long-Term Savings Goals

How to Financially Prepare for a Smooth & Stress-Free Transition to Part-Time Work

Dreaming of part-time work but worried about the financial impact? In this episode, we’re breaking down the 5 essential financial checkpoints you must review before cutting back your hours. From managing debt and budgeting smartly to evaluating your emergency fund and retirement contributions, you’ll get a step-by-step checklist to ensure your pivot to part-time is sustainable—not stressful. 

Tracy shares personal stories, practical strategies, and negotiation tips to help you make a confident and empowered transition. Plus, discover how to test your budget, protect your benefits, and plan for peace of mind. Don’t miss the free guide and exclusive invite to the Part-Time Pathway coaching program to help you make the leap with clarity.



📌 Resources mentioned:

 * Free Guide: 5-Step Part-Time Pivot [https://tracybingaman.com/part-time]

 * Book a 1:1 Strategy Call [https://calendly.com/the-pa-is-in/part-time-provider]

 * Join the Part-Time Pathway Program [https://www.tracybingaman.com/pathway]

part-time PA transition, financial checklist for clinicians, PA burnout recovery, reduce clinical hours, budgeting for part-time work, debt payoff strategy, emergency fund planning, part-time income prep, retirement contributions part-time, healthcare benefits negotiation, hidden costs of part-time work, side gigs for clinicians, work-life balance for PAs, sustainable clinical careers, physician associate financial planning, CME reimbursement, part-time pivot coaching, flexible PA jobs


310: [MONEY] 5 Financial Boxes to Check Before Making a Part-Time Pivot

Tracy Bingaman is redefining success as a Physician Associate & answering PA questions: How do I find work-life balance as a PA? How can I increase my income as a Physician Assistant? Am I ready to change specialities? How can I chart less? How do I land a raise? A workshop-style podcast helping PAs to create better balance in their lives, you'll learn how to earn more money, own your energy, take back your time and build a life where you feel great about.