Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Julie Bagshaw, Owner of Simply Pelvic Physiotherapy & Wellness, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Simply pelvic is a pelvic physiotherapy practice based in midtown Toronto. We help women and children with pelvic floor dysfunction such as incontinence, pelvic pain, diastasis, prolapse, and postpartum recovery. My populations of focus are those who are pregnant/postpartum and athletes.
Tell us about yourself
My undergraduate degree is in Math and business. I worked in corporate financial consulting for 7 years in the consumer packaged goods industry, working long hours. I knew I didn't have the drive and passion to do this in the long run. I decided to shift gears and pursue my passion for helping people be active. I did a 2 year Master of Physiotherapy and quickly realized that I wanted to specialize in pelvic health- taking many more courses in this area. I get to spend a full 30min season with each client (no physiotherapy assistants are used), and I get to know my clients and truly make an impact in their lives. I also have lived experiences of how much pregnancy and labour can impact your body, as I have two kids of my own. I want to pass on my knowledge to others to ensure they get back to any activity they desire postpartum.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think it was a big accomplishment to leave my career in finance and set up my own business in health care. Each day my accomplishments are the accomplishments of my clients. Their wins- big or small- remind me I've made the right career choice!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The unpredictable nature of my schedule and always thinking about my business keeps my mind active a lot of the time, even when I'm not in the clinic!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find your niche- there are many pelvic physiotherapists, so try to determine who your ideal client is and ensure you clearly communicate how you can help this population, given your specific skills and experience.
- Build relationships- referrals in this industry come from clients' word of mouth and fellow health care practitioners (midwives, massage therapists, chiropractors, athletic therapists). Take the time to network and build your referral community!
- Don't wait- there is always more experience to get, courses to take, and modalities to learn. Most of us can help a lot of people with the skills they know now. Don't wait! Get out there, share your knowledge, and figure the rest out.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.simplypelvic.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplypelvic/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simplypelvic/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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