We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Dr. Jenna Dye. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jenna below.

Dr. Dye, appreciate you joining 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 grew up with a family owned small business and because of that I never had the desire to have my own business. I saw the stress running a small business and decided that I would happier working for someone. When I first started practicing here in Phoenix, I worked in a large group practice with multiple doctors, acupuncturists, and chiropractors. I loved this group setting. This was a very valuable time as a new physician. I was able to build my confidence while having support from other practitioners at the same time. After my husband and I had our second child, my vision for my practice began to change. I wanted to simplify things and be able to have more flexibility for my family. I decided to take the leap. Other than growing up in a family business, I did not have true business background so I learned everything on my own. The first step was to find a place to rent, and I started in a little one room suite. I built my own website with a youtube video which included online scheduling for convenience. Technology definitely made the transition so much easier for me.

I feel that my time in a group practice really allowed me to go into my own private practice with confidence. I was able to focus on practicing medicine for those first 10 years while not having to manage a business at the same time. I was able to watch how a practice runs smoothly and learn ways to improve it. One of the hardest challenges was just making decision. Trying something new and scary and diving right in.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?

I am from a small town in Northern Arizona. Most people know of Kingman, Arizona as they drive through it on their way to Las Vegas. I remember wanting to be a doctor in the second grade, I was just not sure of which kind. When I was in high school, my younger sister, was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. I remember seeing her struggle with conventional medicine and was not getting the proper support that she needed. Around this time my parents decided to try a more natural approach to health, they bought a local health food store and we started on a more holistic journey as a family.

The first day in the health food store, I picked up a book called The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine written by the cofounders of Bastyr University, one of the oldest accredited Naturopathic Universities in the country. It was at that moment I knew this would my journey. I continued on to the University of Arizona with a degree in Nutritional Sciences and minors in both Chemistry and Spanish, took 6 months off to live in Central America and enroll in the Costa Rican Language Academy and then started Medical school.

After graduating from Bastyr University in 2007, I decided to move to the Big Island of Hawaii and practice in a busy naturopathic clinic. I worked there for 2 years and decided Island life was not for me. This lead me back to Arizona!

I have been practicing as licensed Naturopathic Physician in Arizona since 2010. My role is to help support the body’s foundation and restore and maintain optimal health. I achieve this with my patients by identifying and removing barriers that may be impacting your health. I focus on family practice with concentrations on women’s health, pediatrics and adolescents, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal health, thyroid disorders and acute and chronic conditions.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

I think about this question all the time. Every-time it comes up I feel the same way. I honestly cannot imagine myself in any other profession and I have felt this way since day one. Are there days where there are challenges? Of course but most days are very rewarding. I love to see patients take charge of their own health and begin to feel their best.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

After about 2 years on my own, I decided to join a program called Mindful Money Makeover.(http://www.stephaniekremic.com). This is a program to support self employed women and guide them with tools to help grow their business. It was an amazing support to help me develop a long term business plan, implement more organized systems, and set financial goals. Joining this program allowed me build more confidence as a business owner. This is a great idea for someone who is starting a business or even someone who has been in a business for a while.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.drjennadye.com
• Instagram: @drjennadye
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjennadye/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjennadye/
• Twitter: @drjennadye