Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Demetris Elia, founder of PEAKiropractic, located in Dallas, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a 100% mobile chiropractic practice that offers chiropractic, massage therapy, and nutritional consultations in your own space. We were inspired by patients that did not have time to be proactive about their health and could not make it into the office to get the treatment they needed. We eliminate all time constraints. Patients no longer need to drive, move their schedule around or sit in waiting rooms for their treatment. We operate seven days a week, from 8 am to 8 pm, because life never takes a break.
Tell us about yourself
I initially wanted to become a chiropractor because of a back injury during my athletic career. Although my old teammates would "crack my back" and resolve some of my complaints, when I came to the US, I found out this was an actual profession.
My first experience with a chiropractor in the US was a bad one. The doctor came into the room I was waiting in with negative energy and didn't seem motivated to be there. As I said earlier, it did not go very well, and I was left unable to stand up straight for a few days after that. I knew, however, that whatever "chiropractic" was worked when you have good intentions and positive energy behind it, so I pursued it.
Today as the Mobile Chiropractor of Dallas-Fort Worth, I get calls every week from people that cannot get out of bed or are on the floor, not able to get up, and are in severe pain. What motivates me is the smile on my patient's faces when they finally get relief and are able to do life again. Being able to help people improve their health and live a better life is definitely a perk that pushes me even further every day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would say my biggest accomplishment is establishing this company. The first week in, I had gone to a networking meeting to get connected, only to be told by someone that "Mobile chiropractic doesn't work. I know at least five other great doctors that tried it, and it's not possible". More than two years later, we offer massage therapy, functional medicine, and weight loss programs and are expanding our product line to better serve our patients.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Simply put, it is not for everyone! A lot of dedication, persistence, and determination are required to provide your customers with the experience and quality of service they deserve. Some days are just harder to navigate than others, but the satisfaction and response we get from our patients keep us going.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The first thing that I was asked when I suggested opening this company was, "Do you really want to do it?".
I believe that the answer you give to that question will determine if you will make it or not.
I decide to go with it, then be all in at all times. There will be sacrifices, and there will be drawbacks, but if you are truly driven to your purpose, there is nothing stopping you from achieving it.
So to sum up:
Tip1: Answer the question, "Why do you want to do it?"
Tip2: Be all in at all times.
Tip3: Give it time. My old coach would always tell me, "You weren't born running were you?"
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Sometimes having the drive to do great things in your space doesn't mean you need to open a business. Like one of my mentors says, everyone wants to be the owner but forgets you can do great things when you are supporting the company. Finding the right space and people to work with could provide you with everything you need to accomplish your goals without the headaches that come with ownership.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://peakiropractic.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mobilechiropractorofDFW/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peakiropractic/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peakiropractic/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.