Navigating Career Shifts & Self-Care in Home Care: A Conversation with Denise Bell
In Episode 6 of
From Home Care to Skincare: Denise Bell’s Journey
Denise’s career path has been anything but conventional. From working at Kodak in the 1980s to owning a home health agency, and now running a successful skincare brand, her story is a testament to adaptability and lifelong learning. She shares how her journey shaped her approach to business and why she made the leap into the beauty industry after decades in healthcare.
The Importance of Customer Service Across Industries
One consistent theme in Denise’s career has been customer service—whether in healthcare or skincare, making people feel valued and cared for is at the heart of what she does. Her experience in home care gave her a deep appreciation for the dedication of nurses and caregivers, many of whom work tirelessly to support others while neglecting their own well-being.
Self-Care in Home Care: Why It Matters
A key discussion point in this episode is the need for self-care among home care professionals. Many caregivers, particularly nurses, give so much to their patients that they often forget to care for themselves. Denise emphasizes the importance of:
- Setting boundaries and recognizing burnout before it happens.
- Prioritizing personal well-being to provide better care for others.
- Finding small but impactful ways to recharge—whether through skincare, relaxation, or mindfulness practices.
Amy and Troy echo these sentiments, highlighting that self-care isn’t just about luxury—it’s about sustainability in a demanding industry. They discuss how home health workers, especially women, often take on the emotional and physical burden of caregiving both at work and at home, leading to long-term exhaustion and stress.
Career Reinvention: It’s Never Too Late
Denise shares her experience of making a career shift in her 40s, leaving the security of home care to pursue a new passion. She highlights the importance of:
- Recognizing when it’s time for a change.
- Overcoming fear and self-doubt when making big career moves.
- Building a support network—friends, mentors, and professionals who can offer guidance.
For many in home care, the idea of switching careers may seem daunting, but Denise’s journey proves that it’s possible to transition into something new without losing the skills and experiences gained in previous roles.
Lessons from the Home Care Industry
Throughout the conversation, Denise reflects on her time in home health and what she’s taken with her into her current business:
- The power of relationships. Home care is a small world where reputation and connections matter.
- The resilience of caregivers. Nurses and home care workers are some of the hardest-working professionals in any industry.
- The need for adaptability. Whether in healthcare or entrepreneurship, being flexible and open to change is key to success.
Final Takeaways
- Self-care is not optional—caregivers must prioritize their own well-being to continue serving others.
- Career transitions are possible at any stage—taking risks can lead to fulfilling new opportunities.
- Community and support are essential—whether in home care or business, having a strong network makes all the difference.
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Catch more insights from Amy Taylor, Troy Brooks, and their incredible guests on The Home Care Experience with T&A! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and share with your network to help more home care professionals navigate the challenges of the industry.
For resources, show notes, and updates, visit https://homecareexperience.com.
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