The Dr.Des Show

Is it Time To Quit Your Job? Public Health Edition

• Dr. Des

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0:00 | 20:35

In this solo episode, Dr. Des takes you deep into the real talk behind job promotions and career pivots. From her first promotion at the Florida Department of Health to launching a consulting career, she unpacks the unglamorous truth behind getting ahead in public health. You’ll hear about the power of a digital portfolio, why you might have to apply for a promotion (even when you’re already doing the work), and how to tell when it’s time to move on from a job that’s no longer serving you. Whether you're feeling stuck, underpaid, or just ready for your next step, this episode will help you get clear—and get moving.

Key Takeaways:

  • 💼 Promotions in Public Health Aren’t Always Guaranteed: Unlike some industries, public health doesn’t always offer a clear path to advancement—you often have to apply and compete, even internally.
  • 📁 Build a Digital Portfolio: Dr. Des shares how her collection of saved work—GIS maps, RFPs, presentations—helped her land both jobs and her first consulting contract.
  • 📉 Don’t Wait for Fairness—Build Your Leverage: You may be the most qualified, but if you’re underpaid or overlooked, focus on stacking your skills and resume to pivot up or out.
  • 🚪 Knowing When to Leave: When your job becomes repetitive, unfulfilling, or stalls your salary growth, it may be time to move on—even if the benefits are decent.
  • 🧭 Get Mentorship and Be Proactive: Investing in mentors, joining communities like the Public Health Club, and taking initiative (even when unpaid) can create new leadership and income opportunities.

Mentioned in This Episode:

  • The Public Health Club – Get access to mentorship sessions, workshops, and the digital portfolio training
  • How to use informational interviews on LinkedIn to connect with potential mentors
  • Dr. Des’s own leap from administrator to consultant—and what sparked the shift


Join the Public Health Club for a free 7-day trial and access the Digital Portfolio Workshop. Whether you're job hunting, preparing to pivot, or trying to position yourself for a promotion, the tools and community are here to help you thrive.

https://www.drdesshow.com/

https://www.publichealthclub.com/