Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Alex Antonucci. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alex, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Almost every entrepreneur we know has considered donating a portion of their sales to an organization or cause – how did you make the decision of whether to donate? We’d love to hear the backstory if you’re open to sharing the details.

Yes, I donate 1% of Waxwing Wellness revenue to Tree Pittsburgh.

When I moved to Pittsburgh, I didn’t just build a business — I built a life. Both of my children were born here. I’ve been part of the Pittsburgh running community and have spent dozens of hours running through the streets and the park trails. Over the past seven years, I’ve made a conscious effort to get to know my neighbors, form deeply meaningful relationships, and invest in the people and places that make this city feel like home. This is where I belong, and I feel a deep responsibility to contribute to its wellbeing.

Giving back has always been part of my vision for Waxwing Wellness. That’s why I chose Tree Pittsburgh as the recipient of 1% of our revenue. Their work resonates with me on a personal level. My life experiences have shown me how deeply interconnected we all are — our health, our communities, and the environment we share with other living beings. Tree Pittsburgh embodies that understanding. They’re not just planting trees; they’re investing in a more vibrant, resilient future for all of us.

Supporting them is my way of giving back to the city that has already given me so much — a way of putting care into the ground, quite literally, and helping it grow.

Alex, 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?

I’m a father, husband, runner, gardener, birder, and therapist. I find my greatest joy in honing interest and seeing how far I can take it.

My journey into therapy started after a personal crisis. I was a recreational bodybuilder, but an injury ended my career. It was a tough time—I lost purpose, community, and fell into a depression. With the help of close friends, I began to understand my experience through the exploration of human psychology and relationships. I wanted to make contact with a sense of purpose and belonging that could not be so easily stripped away. I completed a graduate degree from Naropa University, where I studied under leading mindfulness and meditation teachers.

In my practice, I help clients understand themselves deeply within their own life context, emotions, and relationships. I believe people think, feel, and act for valid reasons. Once we understand those reasons, we have choice in our lives and the possibility of peace. I do my clinical work with both virtually and in person, in regular and intensive formats. I also facilitate Gottman Method Art and Science of Love workshops for couples.

As an Approved Clinical Supervisor, I find great pleasure in teaching and supporting other mental health clinicians. This allows me to have a greater and longer-lasting impact in this world, which matters to me. I’ve provided supervision, consultation, and education to thousands of clinicians, supporting them in their own personal and professional development.

To me, the greatest part of being a therapist is being invited into some of the most intimate, vulnerable spaces of “human-ness” with my clients. I find great satisfaction in the process of exploring these aspects of my clients’ lives and helping them organize their hopes, pains, and dreams into their day to day life.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I view every interaction—with colleagues, clients, and community members—as a reflection of my presence and values. When I’m not able to see a client, I go out of my way to ensure they’re connected with another trusted practitioner. If a fellow therapist reaches out for support—whether it’s about a case, billing issue, or business challenge—I make myself available. I truly believe we’re all in this together. Even on the hardest days, I try not to lose sight of that, and I never want to be too busy to lend a hand to a friend or peer. I think that this is the foundation of my reputation.

Any advice for managing a team?

I believe the most valuable things a business owner can offer their team are: a connection to each member’s unique strengths, transparency about the business, and a clear vision for the team culture. These three elements help people feel appreciated, included, and part of something meaningful.

On a day-to-day level, my advice is simple but essential: make time for your team. Look them in the eye. Listen to their concerns. Celebrate their wins. Be present in their everyday experience. When your team sees that you’re genuinely invested, they’re much more likely to be invested too.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.waxwingwellness.com