Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ryan Gartrell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Ryan , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
To begin, I grappled with addiction and behavioral challenges from the age of 15. As a result, my family embarked on a quest to find the best way to support me. This involved navigating various options available to a family facing our kind of challenges.
Over a span of 10.5 years, I persevered through fluctuations, relentlessly seeking a sustainable path toward stability for myself and my family. When I finally achieved a period of stability, I saw an opportunity to transform my past’s darkness and confusion into a force for good—helping other families and individuals dealing with similar issues. This initial thought ignited my journey in this field, which has now spanned nearly a decade.
I worked for two different treatment centers in Los Angeles for a little over seven years combined. Starting at an entry-level position, I gradually progressed to become the Operations Manager of the first program. Later, I transitioned to the role of Director of Admissions and Business Development at my final program. These experiences enriched my industry understanding and nurtured personal and professional growth.
During this phase, I pursued education, gaining certification as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Immersed in the industry, I observed a surge in treatment centers, ranging from exceptional to subpar. In light of this, I aspired to a distinct role—one that directly supported clients and their families as a guide, advocate, and coach. My goal was to stand at the junction of the industry and families in need, free from attachment to any single program.
Having glimpsed the industry’s less ethical aspects, where financial concerns sometimes overshadowed integrity, I felt compelled to establish my own venture. This decision was not without hesitations—fears of leaving a secure salary and embracing uncertainty surfaced. Balancing advice from two friends, one urging me to take the leap and the other urging caution, I eventually summoned the courage to proceed.
My meeting with my current business partner was serendipitous, a connection facilitated by a mutual friend at a Jewish holiday event. Our relationship grew stronger over shared values, perspectives on mental health and substance abuse, and philosophical alignment. A few months later, an unexpected call set the wheels in motion. Dean, my partner, asked me to step in while he was away, assisting a family. This marked the birth of our partnership, aligned with our shared vision of offering comprehensive case management services at a concierge level.
As we embarked on this journey, Dean and I committed to delivering our best to our first client, aiming to provide an exceptional experience for the family and all involved. We believed that such dedication would naturally lead to referrals and success. Fast forward four years, and our approach has guided us to assist over 200 families in diverse ways, surpassing our initial expectations.
Our evolution from personal struggles to a thriving business underscores the power of transforming adversity into opportunity. Through unwavering values, dedication, and a desire to effect positive change, Spearhead Health has emerged as a beacon of support for families seeking solace and guidance during their most challenging times.
Recognizing the need from families for comprehensive support through all stages of treatment and recovery, we observed a fragmentation in the existing model. This model often involved clients moving from one provider to another with limited communication, leaving families uncertain about the best steps to take. Our aim was to bridge this gap by becoming the nucleus of information and advocacy. We envisioned guiding individuals towards a healthy and stable lifestyle, equipped with the information and confidence to move forward.
Was it a worthwhile endeavor?
Absolutely. It’s all about perspective. While some might balk at the challenges we faced, we consider it an honor. We didn’t have absolute certainty of financial success, but we believed in our service’s value and trusted that things would work out if we gave our best. Our collective experiences affirmed this perspective.
Was our approach unique?
Compared to traditional methods of caring for those dealing with mental health and addiction, our approach is indeed unique. While we’re not the only company offering such services, we are fewer in number than conventional providers. The prevailing practice often involves transitioning clients between outpatient and inpatient providers based on symptom severity. However, this model lacks consistent care, save for therapists or doctors who may spend limited time with clients. Families requiring our support typically need more than therapist or psychiatrist referrals. Our role extends to being almost like family—meeting in homes, traveling with clients, providing 24/7 availability, and offering coaching and education to address current challenges and prepare for the future. Our goal is to aid in decision-making and execution to bring everything together.
In summary, the journey from personal struggles to a thriving business has reinforced the idea of turning challenges into opportunities. Spearhead Health stands as a testament to unwavering values and a commitment to making a positive impact, offering a guiding light for families in their times of greatest need.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Absolutely, I’d be happy to share my story with you.
My journey has been one of incredible transformation, born out of the depths of a severe heroin addiction that I grappled with from the age of 15 to 25. The struggles I faced during those years weren’t in vain – they ignited a fierce determination within me to not only overcome my own demons but also to offer a guiding hand to others trapped in the same darkness.
Recognizing the power of my own experiences, I knew that there was no better way to turn the page on those scary and dark times than to use them as a stepping stone to help individuals who were struggling just like I had been. This realization led me to step into the field of addiction recovery, a path driven by my burning desire to give back and make a meaningful impact.
My journey into this field began humbly. I started as a driver for a treatment center in Malibu during the initial year of my recovery. It was my way of getting a foot in the door, of making a tangible difference in the lives of those seeking solace and healing. Every drive, every interaction, and every moment of connection further solidified my resolve to be a force of positivity in the lives of others.
As fate would have it, my dedication didn’t go unnoticed. I was offered a position at a luxury primary mental health facility in Agoura Hills, California. This was more than just a job – it was an opportunity for personal growth and professional development. Over the span of nearly three years, I embraced each chance to learn and evolve, eventually leaving with the title of Operations Manager. My time there was marked by invaluable experiences, both in terms of honing my leadership skills and fostering genuine connections with clients who resonated with my journey.
However, my path took a twist after I left that position. The darker side of the behavioral health industry, with its detrimental business aspects, left me uncertain about my continued involvement. It was during this moment of doubt that I had the fortune of meeting a mentor I deeply admired. Their guidance was a beacon of clarity – they emphasized the importance of maintaining my integrity, staying true to my values, and trusting that authenticity would ultimately yield its rewards.
With renewed conviction, I explored new avenues, including providing private companion services for high-end clients seeking alternatives to traditional treatment facilities. But my heart remained tethered to my true passion – helping families and individuals navigate the labyrinthine path of recovery. This drive led me to a role as the Director of Admissions and Business Development at a luxury dual-diagnosis program in Malibu.
In the following 3.5 years, I didn’t just hold my position – I furthered my education by becoming a certified drug and alcohol counselor and a professional interventionist. Armed with these qualifications and fueled by my own eight-year journey of recovery, I realized the dire need for a personalized, comprehensive support system for families.
This realization inspired me to create a solution – a customized team approach that accompanied individuals and families through every stage of recovery. I aimed to provide unwavering support, untainted by biases toward specific programs or providers. My goal was to advocate fiercely for the well-being of those struggling, offering guidance and solace during the tumultuous journey.
The belief that there are many paths to recovery and that a one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate is the cornerstone of my philosophy. This is reflected in my company’s tagline: “There are many paths to the top of the mountain.” I understand that each person’s journey is unique, and I am dedicated to tailoring my approach to honor that diversity.
I’ve been fortunate to share this journey with a kindred spirit and business partner, Dean Moses. Our alignment philosophically has been an invaluable asset to the development of our company. Together, we bring a holistic perspective to the recovery process, ensuring that families and individuals receive unwavering support and guidance on their path to healing.
Looking back, I’m incredibly proud of the transformation I’ve undergone and the impact I’ve been able to make. My journey, from the depths of addiction to a source of hope and empowerment, is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience. I’ve dedicated my life to helping families and individuals navigate the challenging terrain of recovery, armed with integrity, empathy, and an unyielding commitment to their well-being.
As my journey continues, I’m eager to share my story and my expertise with others. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that they’re not alone – that they have an advocate who understands their struggles firsthand and is dedicated to supporting them every step of the way. My story is a story of hope, recovery, and the profound impact that one individual can make in the lives of many.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Absolutely. The first book that comes to mind is, “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. Here are some blurbs on key elements touched on throughout the book.
Focus on Sustained Excellence: This book has ingrained in me the concept of striving for sustained excellence rather than settling for mediocrity. The idea of moving from good to great by identifying and implementing key principles has become a core tenet of my management and entrepreneurial approach. This focus on consistent, outstanding performance has guided me to seek enduring solutions and strategies that stand the test of time.
Hedgehog Concept: The Hedgehog Concept has become a compass for my decision-making process. By aligning passion, expertise, and economic opportunities, I’ve adopted a strategic approach that ensures my ventures are rooted in a clear and well-defined strategy. This principle has helped me make choices that resonate with my strengths and align with the market needs.
Disciplined Thought and Action: The emphasis on disciplined thought and action has transformed how I approach challenges and opportunities. Rather than rushing into decisions, I’ve embraced the value of well-considered choices. This approach involves careful analysis of potential outcomes, risks, and opportunities, enabling me to make informed and effective decisions.
Leadership and Team Dynamics: Collins’ insights into leadership, particularly Level 5 Leadership, have shaped my management style. The humility, determination, and commitment to organizational success that this concept embodies have influenced my approach to leading teams. By striving to be a Level 5 leader, I aim to cultivate motivated and cohesive teams that drive results.
Culture of Discipline: The notion of a “Culture of Discipline” has influenced how I build and nurture company culture. I’ve come to prioritize the importance of maintaining consistent adherence to core values and goals. This approach fosters an environment where everyone is aligned with the overarching vision and takes ownership of their responsibilities.
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
In the realm of funding a business venture, my aim is to ignite the spirits of those who harbor dreams of initiating their own journeys, armed with determination rather than an abundance of financial backing. Our story is one of resourcefulness and perseverance, where the path to acquiring the initial capital for Spearhead Health was paved not with elaborate plans, but with a steadfast commitment to our vision.
Dean and I found ourselves engrossed in the behavioral health industry, each in the employ of different companies, as the foundation of what would later become Spearhead Health began to take shape. With an ingrained sense of financial prudence cultivated over the years, we made it a practice to judiciously manage our personal expenses.
This disciplined approach allowed us to amass a reserve of funds, effectively constructing a launchpad from which we could boldly propel ourselves into the entrepreneurial sphere. A significant stroke of serendipity came my way when the organization I had been serving agreed to retain me as a consultant during the fledgling year of our company’s existence. This arrangement offered me a safety net, covering my essential needs during this critical phase.
In our tale, there were no elaborate pitch decks or appeals to friends and family for financial support. Instead, we relied on the foundations we had meticulously built through years of prudent saving. Our journey was defined by calculated risk-taking, coupled with a commitment to minimize overheads and maximize our financial stability.
As we embarked on this journey, the very core of our approach remained grounded in organic growth. This conscious decision to scale gradually allowed us to maintain not only the financial integrity of our venture but also the quality of the services we set out to provide. With each step, our dedication to managing our financial resources with finesse remained unwavering, propelling us forward with resilience and purpose.
Our story underscores the truth that the path to entrepreneurial success is often rooted in resourcefulness, discipline, and a steadfast belief in the power of a well-managed foundation. It is a narrative that exemplifies the possibility of turning dreams into reality, even without an overflowing coffers. And as we continue to navigate the dynamic business landscape, these values remain the guiding lights that illuminate our journey towards greatness.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://spearheadhealth.com/
- Instagram: @SpearheadHealth
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spearheadhealth
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spearhead-health/?viewAsMember=true
- Youtube: @spearheadhealth3114