031 How to deal with trolls and negativity online

Hi, I’m Sarah Almond Bushell, and welcome to another episode of Beyond the Clinic. Today, we’re diving into a topic that every healthcare professional faces but rarely talks about, handling negativity online. If you’ve ever second-guessed sharing your expertise out of fear of criticism or trolling, you’re not alone, and this episode is for you.

Episode Summary
The fear of online criticism can feel overwhelming, especially when you’ve worked so hard to build your credibility and expertise. I’ve been there myself, and I want to help you navigate this challenging part of putting yourself out there. From personal stories to actionable strategies, we’ll explore how to stay grounded, protect your energy, and keep showing up for the people who need your knowledge the most.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why Negativity Happens: Understanding why criticism grows as your visibility increases.
• My Viral Moment: How I faced a wave of backlash and turned it into a growth experience.
• Five Key Strategies for Resilience:
  • Preparing mentally before you post.
  • Setting boundaries with negative commenters.
  • Deciding how to respond—or not respond.
  • Using compassionate communication to diffuse tension.
  • Knowing when to seek legal advice.
• Reclaiming Your Confidence: Tips to keep your focus on helping others without getting derailed.

Key Takeaways

• Online criticism often says more about the commenter than you.
• Growing your online presence means your message is reaching people—it’s a good sign.
• Protecting your energy and staying aligned with your mission is the best way to handle negativity.
• You have the tools to choose how to respond and take control of the narrative.

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

• Hug Your Haters by Jay Baer – A brilliant guide to navigating online criticism. 

Your Next Step
Take a moment to think about one valuable insight or piece of advice you’ve been hesitant to share. Reflect on your audience’s needs, craft it with intention, and hit publish. Your expertise matters, and your unique voice is exactly what someone out there is waiting for.

Join Me Next Week
In our next episode, "Earn While You’re Off: Four Easy Tac

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