Dr. Ola van Steen’s journey from an NHS consultant to a thriving doctorpreneur is nothing short of inspiring. Replacing a traditional medical career with income from travel, she now helps others do the same, all while juggling roles as a coach, mentor, and public speaker. Her story is one of transformation, empowerment, and resilience, motivating thousands of professionals to rethink their career paths and build a life they love.
The Bold Move: Transitioning from Medicine to Travel Entrepreneurship
Dr. Ola’s transition from the rigid structure of the NHS to the freedom of travel entrepreneurship was a bold decision. After spending years as a consultant, she realized that while she was helping patients, she wasn’t fully fulfilled. “I wanted more,” she shares. “More freedom, more impact, more time for myself and my family.”
This desire led her to explore the world of travel and multiple streams of income. She began by building a business that allowed her to earn while traveling the world, creating a life where work and leisure coexisted seamlessly. This transition wasn’t easy; it required courage, strategy, and a willingness to step away from the security of a well-established career.
Her journey didn’t just stop with her own success. As a mentor and coach to over 200 professionals across the globe, Dr. Ola now helps others navigate similar transitions. She teaches them how to build sustainable income streams from travel, enabling them to live life on their terms.
Embracing the Role of a Doctorpreneur
Dr. Ola’s journey into doctorpreneurship is defined by her diverse skill set and a deep understanding of problem-solving, team leadership, and big-picture thinking. She brings all of these skills into her new role, challenging the status quo of what it means to be a doctor.
Instead of prescribing medicine, she prescribes freedom. By helping her mentees unlock the potential of travel and online business, she’s created a new way for doctors and healthcare professionals to thrive outside the confines of clinical work. Her business model allows individuals to create multiple income streams, all while pursuing their passions for travel and entrepreneurship.
“My mission is to help doctors break free from burnout and the limitations of traditional healthcare roles,” says Dr. Ola. “When doctors are happy and healthy, they can impact the world in ways they never thought possible.”
The Power of Dreaming Big: Dr. Ola’s Bestselling Book
One of Dr. Ola’s most significant achievements has been the release of her international bestseller, Dream Big, Do Bigger. This book encapsulates her personal philosophy that everyone has unlimited potential. She encourages readers to dream beyond their current circumstances and take bold steps toward creating the life they truly desire.
“Dreaming big isn’t just about setting goals. It’s about believing that anything is possible if you’re willing to take the necessary steps,” she explains. Dream Big, Do Bigger has resonated with readers worldwide, offering practical advice and inspiration for those looking to break out of their comfort zones.
The book emphasizes that success is not defined by titles or job positions, but by the impact one has and the freedom they experience. Dr. Ola uses her book as a tool to inspire others to explore new possibilities, whether that means leaving behind a 9-to-5 job or venturing into the world of travel and entrepreneurship.
Raising Awareness of Burnout and Moral Injury
As a public speaker, Dr. Ola addresses a subject close to her heart: burnout and moral injury. These issues, often overlooked in the healthcare profession, have devastating effects on doctors and medical professionals globally. Through her talks, Dr. Ola creates a safe space for individuals affected by these conditions to share their stories and begin the healing process.
Burnout is a growing problem in the healthcare industry, and moral injury—a sense of wrongdoing when unable to provide optimal care due to external factors—has added another layer of complexity. Dr. Ola’s goal is to raise awareness about these issues and offer solutions to combat them.
Through her work, she helps healthcare professionals find balance and peace, teaching them how to nourish themselves mentally and physically so that they can return to their work with renewed energy and passion.
Leading Change at Medic Footprints
Dr. Ola’s work as Chief Growth Officer at Medic Footprints further showcases her dedication to improving the lives of doctors. At Medic Footprints, she helps medical professionals find alternative careers that align with their passions and values. The organization offers coaching, resources, and community support to doctors looking for a change.
Her work in this capacity is transforming the healthcare industry by giving doctors the tools they need to move away from the traditional clinical path and find fulfilling careers that don’t compromise their well-being. This mission is personal for Dr. Ola, as she understands firsthand the toll that burnout and dissatisfaction can take on a medical professional’s life.
“When doctors are burned out or unhappy, they’re not able to provide the best care for their patients. The key to creating a positive impact on the world is ensuring that those who care for others are taken care of themselves,” Dr. Ola explains.
Building a Global Impact
Dr. Ola’s influence reaches far beyond her own success. With over 200 mentees in her international team, she’s creating a global community of professionals who are empowered to create wealth and freedom through travel. Her approach is not just about earning money; it’s about building a sustainable lifestyle that aligns with personal values and goals.
“I want people to know that they don’t have to settle for a life of stress and burnout,” Dr. Ola says. “There is another way, and I’m here to show them how.”
Her vision for the future is to continue mentoring and coaching more individuals, expanding her reach, and creating a ripple effect of change across the world. She firmly believes that when doctors and professionals prioritize their well-being and pursue careers that bring them joy, they can create lasting positive change in the world.
The Road Ahead: Continuing the Journey
As Dr. Ola looks toward the future, her goals remain rooted in helping others achieve their dreams. She plans to continue expanding her coaching business, writing more books, and speaking to larger audiences about the importance of mental health and well-being in the healthcare profession.
“I am just getting started,” she says with a smile. “The best is yet to come.”
Dr. Ola van Steen’s story is a testament to the power of reinvention, the importance of self-care, and the limitless potential of every individual. She has proven that it’s possible to leave behind a traditional career and build a life that aligns with one’s passions and values. Through her work, she continues to inspire and guide others to do the same, showing them that with courage, vision, and determination, anything is possible.
A Message to Aspiring Doctors and Entrepreneurs
Dr. Ola’s message to aspiring doctorpreneurs and those looking to change their careers is simple: “The only limits are the ones you place on yourself. Dream big, and do bigger. The world is waiting for you to step into your greatness.”
Her journey shows that with the right mindset and tools, anyone can break free from the constraints of their current situation and build the life they’ve always dreamed of. Whether through travel, entrepreneurship, or simply pursuing your passions, Dr. Ola is proof that anything is possible when you believe in yourself. Do connect on Linkedin.
