Turning Podcasts into Continuing Education Courses: Dr. Tobin Richardson’s Journey with Save the Therapist

Turning Podcasts into Continuing Education Courses: Dr. Tobin Richardson’s Journey with Save the Therapist

In the ever-evolving world of therapist continuing education, innovation is long overdue. Dr. Tobin Richardson, the founder of Save the Therapist, is on a mission to change that. I had the pleasure of speaking with Tobin on the podcast about how he's blending podcast storytelling with CE learning—and offering it all for free.

Where It All Started

Tobin’s journey began with a frustration many of us share - traditional CE courses often feel like a box to check rather than an opportunity to learn. With a background in counselor education and a passion for narrative podcasting, he started asking the big question: Can we do CE better?

His answer was yes - and it came in the form of Save the Therapist, a platform offering CEU courses built around high-quality, story-driven audio content. Think This American Life, but for therapists.

Building a Better CE Experience

Unlike traditional lecture-style formats, Tobin’s courses blend interviews, expert commentary, and compelling storytelling. Each podcast episode is paired with a downloadable takeaway packet, allowing it to qualify for a full one-hour CE credit. And yes, it's all free.

Why free? Tobin’s long-term plan is to sustain the platform through podcast sponsorships, but for now, he’s running it as a passion project, paying out of pocket to support what he believes the CE world truly needs: accessible, engaging education.

If you are a therapist or counselor looking for continuing education, check out my NBCC Approved $5 Podcourses and other continuing education offerings. Plus, get your first Podcourse half off.
🫐Sponsored by Berries: Use code TherapyShow50 for $50 off your first month - CLICK HERE.🫐

Navigating Challenges & Staying Authentic

In our conversation, Tobin opened up about the fears he faced tackling complex topics like internalized sexism and the ethics of insurance reimbursement. Surprisingly, the episodes he was most nervous about turned out to be the most appreciated. Listeners consistently responded with gratitude for the nuance and honesty he brought to these subjects.

He also shared how he used his own grief journey—processing the loss of his father—as a foundation for one of his most meaningful episodes on grief counseling. It’s clear that Tobin is not just creating content; he’s creating connection.

What Makes Save the Therapist Unique?

  • Storytelling-first approach: Each CE course is built around a narrative, not a lecture.

  • Multi-perspective learning: Tobin interviews multiple experts per topic for a well-rounded view.

  • Free access: Therapists can earn CEUs without paying upfront—just complete the quiz and download the packet.

  • Broad accreditation: Save the Therapist is approved by NBCC, ASWB, and NAADAC, covering CE requirements for most therapists across the U.S.

Advice for Aspiring CE Creators

Tobin also offered advice for therapists who want to break into CE content creation:

  • Start before you feel ready - early work won’t be perfect, but it gets you moving.

  • Don’t be afraid to tackle difficult topics; listeners appreciate thoughtful, nuanced discussion.

  • Focus on the why - your passion will carry you through the challenges.

  • Build community through podcast appearances, social media, and word of mouth.

  • If possible, build an email list early to directly reach your audience.

Final Thoughts

Tobin’s work reminds us that CE doesn’t have to be boring or transactional. It can be creative, emotionally resonant, and even fun. His platform, Save the Therapist, is a fresh take on what continuing education can look like when heart, innovation, and storytelling collide.

If you’re curious, inspired, or just need a new way to earn your CE contact hours, go check out Save The Therapist and tune in to his podcast. You might just find your new favorite way to learn.

Tobin Richardson, EdD, NCC, is a counselor educator with a decade of experience building and delivering innovative educational resources to therapists in both community mental health and large VC-backed provider organizations. Since launching in early 2025, his NPR-style CE platform Save the Therapist has garnered over 4,000 therapists registrants with over 7,000 course completions.