How to Overcome Academic Trauma and Build Confidence as a Freelance Medical Writer

What if leaving academia—or another tightly defined professional path—felt less like failure and more like freedom?

For many academics, clinicians, and researchers, stepping into freelance medical writing isn’t just a career change—it’s a profound identity shift. Too often, this transition carries grief, shame, or the lingering sense of “not enough.” In this episode, we explore how those feelings show up, why they matter, and how to reframe them as fuel for your writing career.

By listening, you’ll discover:

• Why the transition from academia or clinical practice can feel like trauma—and how to reframe it as strength. • Four entrepreneurial habits that can help you thrive as a freelance medical writer while avoiding their shadow sides. • Simple, practical practices—like free writing and mindful self-awareness—that help you claim permission, rebuild confidence, and cultivate a sustainable business mindset.

Press play now to learn how to navigate identity loss, tap into your natural strengths, and take small steps toward building a medical writing business that feels truly your own.

Mentioned in this episode:

CMEpalooza

CMEpalooza Fall is a 1-day event scheduled for Wednesday, October 22, that will feature a series of sessions relevant across the CME/CE spectrum. Broadcasts will stream live on the LIVE page of this website and be available for viewing shortly after their conclusion on the Archive page. There is no charge to view or participate in any of these sessions.

Write Medicine Mentor

Write Medicine Mentor is your private companion podcast designed exclusively for medical writers who want deeper support as they grow in continuing medical education (CME). Each month, you'll receive exclusive content from me to support your business and income growth as well as templates/checklists/swipe files you can use and apply to client projects.

In addition to immediate access to a CME writing starter pack, each month you’ll get: * A bonus episode that takes you behind the mic for advanced insights into the craft and business of CME writing. * A ready-to-use template, checklist, or swipe file to make your projects smoother and more effective. * An Ask Me Anything episode, where Alexandra Howson, PhD, answers your questions about writing, clients, CME strategy, and sustainable freelance life.

Think of this podcast as your personal, earbud-friendly mentor—practical, honest, and always focused on helping you sharpen your skills, expand your opportunities, and thrive as a CME writer.

This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp