Ep 38. Reframing Perfectionism and Embracing Growth as a New OT with Desiree Hayes
Description
Show Summary
What really happens after OT school ends and the real world begins? 🎓 In this episode of The Money Matters in OT Podcast, I’m joined by pediatric OT, content creator, and new mom Desiree Hayes to talk about the messy, confusing, and empowering transition from student to practitioner.
We’re diving into what it’s like to navigate job interviews, self-advocacy, and perfectionism in your first year as an OT—and how to build confidence when everything still feels new. Desiree shares honest reflections, mindset shifts, and encouragement for anyone in the thick of the new grad season.
This episode is your reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out—and that growth happens in the showing up. 💛
In today’s episode, we’re chatting about:
What surprised Desiree most about life after OT school
The pressure to “do it right” in your first job
Reframing perfectionism and building self-trust
Navigating job interviews, salary, and self-advocacy
What helped Desiree find her voice as a new OT
Encouragement for embracing the messy middle
Guest Bio
Desiree Hayes, OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist and the creator behind @theprofessional_ot. She’s passionate about helping OT students and new grads feel supported, empowered, and confident in the early stages of their careers—reminding them that growth is never linear, and they’re not alone.
Resources
📲 Connect with Desiree on Instagram: @theprofessional_ot
United States
