Have you ever wondered what it really takes to pivot into a completely new career—especially when you don’t fit the traditional mold? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Michelle Mudge-Riley, a physician who took a bold leap from career coaching into the pharmaceutical world. Her story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to follow your curiosity and explore what else is possible.

We pull back the curtain on her transition, what it felt like to leave a successful business behind, and how she broke into pharma despite not being the typical candidate.

Whether you're just beginning to question your current path or actively exploring nonclinical options, Michelle’s story offers honesty, encouragement, and practical tools for the journey ahead. She shares what really happens behind the scenes—from failed interviews and self-doubt to finally landing the right role.

In this episode we’re talking about:

• What it’s like to make a bold pivot when you don’t fit the “traditional” candidate mold.

• How Michelle handled rejection (including one painful interview setback) and kept going.

• Why informational interviews were a game-changer (even when some flopped).

• The mindset shift that helped her overcome fear and finally hit “send” on those messages.

• How she reframed her background to land roles — even without the “right” experience.

• Why she loves her new career in pharma, and why she’s glad she made the leap.

• The unexpected part of her new job that brought back joy and connection.

You can find the show notes for this episode and more information by clicking here: www.doctorscrossing.com/episode229

Links for this episode:

Episode #17: 9 Top Nonclinical Side Gigs with Michelle Mudge-Riley

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