We recently connected with Dr. Erica Rodriguez and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Erica, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.
I knew I always wanted to own my own business. My parents are business owners which sparked the idea when I was younger. I never imagined it would be easy because the work never stops for my parents. However, I liked the idea of working for myself.
As I began practicing, I always thought things could work better if they were done a different way. However, when you’re an employee you cannot express your opinions about everything that frustrates you. I was slowly realizing that I would never be completely happy working for someone else. I wanted to structure things myself. I had that mindset that is hard to deal with as an employee.
When COVID hit, I had extra time to start looking into the process of forming a business. I had to do research on how to form a professional business legally and obtaining all the proper coverage. I used legal help which I would recommend instead of trying to figure everything out on your own. After I finished all the paperwork I had to figure out how to market myself. That’s part of the process I have really enjoyed.
I would advise any young professionals to learn as much as you can about your specific field from other professionals before you dive into your own practice. I practiced for several years before I decided to form my own business. Which I found beneficial in my current practice because I felt like my skills were more advanced .
I would say to believe in yourself and take the risk. You’ll never know if you’re meant for more if you stay in the same spot. Lastly, I would suggest saving up money before taking the leap. I funded my business by myself which was important for me. Also, I wanted to ensure I had money saved because I knew quitting my full time job to start my own business was not going to translate immediately financially. It takes time to build a business and I’m still in the process.
Dr. Erica, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Erica Rodriguez and I’m a doctor of physical therapy and a certified strength and conditioning specialist. I own 4th Quarter Recovery which is a mobile physical therapy and recovery practice for professional athletes. I help my athletes with injury management, injury prevention, post-operative care, recovery, and sports rehabilitation.
In my practice, the athletes come first. I am someone they can trust. My main goal is to help them be successful. I take pride in building solid relationships with my athletes and their families.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
I have been completely genuine with my athletes along with being skilled in my niche. I’m confident in my approach to help them be successful which had led to positive results for them. This has generated word of mouth referrals which is where I gain most of my clients.
Also, I have given up time to help others which always has led to something positive. I truly feel you will receive what you put out there.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
I love to read entrepreneurial books. Mark Cuban’s booklist was a great place to start along with his collection of blogs that he compiled for How to Win at the Sport of Business. I have always liked how he has built many successful businesses but started out sleeping on someone’ else’s couch. I really admire the self made entrepreneurs. Another couple of books that I have enjoyed are Shoe Dog and How to Win Friends and Influence People. They can all teach you about self improvement and chasing after a dream.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.4thQuarterRecovery.com
- Instagram: @4thQuarterRecovery
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/4thQuarterRecovery/
- Other: Tik Tok: @4thQuarterRecovery