Ep 40. Finding Success as a School-Based COTA and Entrepreneur with Justine Vidro
Show Summary:
What does success look like as a COTA—and how do you define it for yourself?
In this episode of the Money Matters in OT Podcast, we’re diving into career growth, creative entrepreneurship, and representation in the field with Justine Vidro, COTA and founder of Teeny Tots Learning LLC. With over five years of experience in school-based OT and more than a decade of working with children, Justine has carved out a path that blends her passion for pediatric therapy, resource creation, and empowering fellow COTAs.
From building her business on the side to launching a thriving Teachers Pay Teachers store, Justine’s journey is full of intention, heart, and a whole lot of hustle. She shares her honest experiences navigating the pressure to “become an OT,” making smart financial choices early in her career, and showing up online in a way that uplifts and advocates for other COTAs in the field.
Whether you’re a COTA exploring your next steps, a student wondering what’s possible, or an OT looking to better understand the dynamics of your team—this episode is packed with insights that will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and empowered.
In today’s show, we’re chatting about:
Justine’s journey into OT and what drew her to becoming a COTA
The financial side of choosing the COTA path—education, loans, and repayment
How entrepreneurship and creative resource-building came into the picture
What inspired her to start Teeny Tots Learning and her hopes for its impact
Navigating the constant “Are you going to become an OT?” question
Reframing what success looks like without needing to take the next title step
Representation for COTAs on social media and using your voice
Her advice for COTAs wondering what’s possible for their career
Guest Bio:
Justine Vidro is an experienced school-based Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) and independent business owner. With over 5 years of experience as a COTA and more than 10 years working with children, she’s always been a self-proclaimed busy bee—constantly chasing new goals and juggling multiple roles, including working as a virtual administrative assistant.
In 2023, she turned a side hustle into a passion project and officially launched Teeny Tots Learning LLC, a business rooted in OT principles that supports children’s development through thoughtfully curated, play-based programs and educational resources. What began as a Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) shop has since evolved into a growing brand that continues to serve both kids and fellow therapists.
When she’s not working, you can find her doing yoga, binging a good Netflix series, or saying “yes” to dessert—always.
Resources
Follow Justine on Social Media: Instagram | Teachers Pay Teachers
Explore Justine’s Courses for School Based Therapists | Payhip | Gumroad
Join our FB Group: Money Matters in Occupational Therapy
Get in touch
