Thanks for responding, Glass! I agree 100% -- I lost the only physical therapy job (my only one in outpatient) when they replaced me with a new grad PTA (licensed physical therapist assistant) after I'd only been there 1.5 years!

Being promoted "out the door" instead of to a better-paying role does seem rather common, and there doesn't seem to be much of a solution other than saving 50% plus of salary.

Of course, that's basically impossible most places, but if I'd known 20 years ago that I'd have 5 bouts of unemployment of 12+ months and need 2 full career changes then I think I would have thought more about saving.

Thanks again!!