202: Part Time vs Full Time Nurse Coach Private Practice

Should You Start Your Nurse Coaching Business Part-Time or Full-Time?

Starting your own nurse coaching business is exciting—but how do you know if you should go all-in or ease into it part-time? In this candid episode, Shelby and Laura peel back the curtain on what they’ve seen work (and what doesn’t) after coaching thousands of nurses through this exact decision. Whether you’re a brand-new grad or an experienced nurse craving freedom, this conversation will give you the clarity you’ve been searching for.

Many nurses feel stuck when deciding how to launch their private practice: jump in full-time or keep a safety net with part-time work? Shelby and Laura get real about their own journeys, what they’d do differently today, and the hidden perks of both approaches. They share updated advice for navigating your first year, building confidence without burning out, and setting up a business that actually lasts.

If you’ve ever wondered how many hours you really need to dedicate, how long it takes to replace your income, or whether part-time is “enough,” this episode will leave you feeling grounded and empowered.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Discover why starting part-time may actually speed up your success (and reduce stress).
• Understand the financial realities of building a private practice, from taxes to startup costs.
• Learn how to set realistic timelines for your first year without falling into the ROI trap.
• Explore the surprising pitfalls of having too much time in your business.
• Hear stories of nurses who hit six figures and what their path really looked like.
• Get practical advice on balancing work, family, and business while keeping your sanity intact.

If this episode gave you clarity or encouragement, we’d love for you to:

• Subscribe to The Successful Nurse Coach Podcast so you never miss a new conversation.
• Leave us a review—it helps more nurses find this resource and take their next step.
• Join the conversation inside our free Facebook group The Successful Nurse Coaches or learn more about the Nurse Life Coach Academy at nurselifecoachacademy.com 

Mentioned in this episode:

NCR + Cohort 8

https://www.nurselifecoachacademy.com/