Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Armida Carr, CEO of New Horizon Therapy, located in Tempe, AZ, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
New Horizon Therapy is a pediatric and adult speech-language pathology and pediatric occupational therapy practice located in Phoenix, Arizona. Our mission is to help children and adults achieve their optimal potential, as speech is how we express ourselves as individuals. The use of language, producing sound, and articulating our thoughts, feelings, and emotions is absolutely empowering. Our dedicated team of highly qualified therapists for both speech and occupational therapies provides evidence-based practices that empower individuals of all ages, strengthening family support and building confidence as they achieve.
Tell us about yourself
First and foremost, I am here to help individuals, old and young, to find their voice! I am one of the children, a mom to three wonderful children, and a wife to my high school sweetheart. Growing up in a large family, fighting to be heard and finding my own voice has kept me going. My desire to make a difference came from growing up in a large family, where one had to fight to be heard, and then having my own children to find that each one of them was a unique individual, and it was my goal to make sure they were seen and heard as the unique individuals they were. I had my challenges when I found out one of my own was not able to use her voice. Her hearing impairment limited her ability to express her thoughts, ideas, feelings, wants, and needs. As a mom, I got to see how challenging it was to get the help I needed. I recall the massive book I kept to log all the calls I made to numerous places.
I recall how many professionals I visited before getting the answers I needed. And I recall how fearful some professionals were to tell me the truth I needed to hear. It was not an easy journey. After my daughter was sat in a corner by her elementary school teacher because the teacher didn't know how to deal with hearing-impaired children, it was then that I knew I needed to empower parents, children, and other professionals. I truly believe there is no reason for any family to go through what I went through to find the answers they need. After these challenges, I found myself at ASU studying speech and hearing. Ultimately, I earned my master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the age of 38. I opened New Horizon Therapy to become a resource to other parents who were going through what I did with my child and hope to be an inspiration.
I'm here to say, stay encouraged. This personal experience is what motivated me to return to school in my 30's and pursue an education in speech-language pathology. I had no intention of opening practice, but my love for learning and appreciation for the success at that time and the outcome I saw in my own child's life is what brought me here and what keeps me going.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
So many things – perhaps the most important thing were "hearing" and trusting my own voice. Having the confidence that is needed when leading a team of professionals who (one hopes) shares your dream and vision. Being a business owner comes with highs and lows. The highs can be celebrated, in my case, with my team, our families, our patients, and their families and caregivers. There is nothing more satisfying than a GREAT DAY at work – when you are the boss. The lows can be lonely. Let's just say that self-motivation is a challenge when the best-laid plans go south. Taking risks, unpredictable or inevitable changes in healthcare insurance, and listening to those who are jumping up and down, cheering you on – when the unknown is all you can grasp. My biggest lesson? Perseverance. Self-discipline. Do it anyway – even if you don't feel like it. I have a team counting on me. Families, patients, and industry partners – we are relying on one another. Staying true to my "why," reminding myself that my voice is one of reason, of knowing, and of absolute decisiveness, no matter what.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things about being a business owner is that it's all on my shoulders. Good thing I'm a yoga practitioner and relish in those inversion poses. I understand that the pressure is great. I signed up for that. I also know that the reward is great, and for that, I am thankful.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Have a clear vision about who you are as a person and a professional and how that will be woven into the culture of your business or practice.
- Hire the right people – surround yourself with employees, vendors, and contractors who share core values and want to move the mission forward with robust fervor and intention.
- Don't give up! So, you may have a bad day, week, month, or even year (does #pandemic2020 mean anything to you?) So what? Mom was right. There will be better days. Be smart enough to recognize both – be in the moment, be grateful and, for goodness sake, just keep on!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.newhorizontherapyaz.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newhorizontherapyaz
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newhorizontherapyaz/
YouTube: https://bit.ly/3EwsdcL
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/armida-carr-b197285/
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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