Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jonathan Just, Co-Founder of Therapeasy, located in Denver, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Therapeasy.co is a matching service designed to help find your perfect therapist. Our algorithm instantly connects people seeking care to licensed providers who are most compatible with what they are looking for. We understand that browsing through hundreds of therapist profiles can be overwhelming and lead to decision fatigue. This is why we offer a different experience that feels more like online dating than scrolling through search results. Our match marketplace is 100% free for all users because cost should never get in the way of finding care. Any counselor wanting to grow their practice can create their free profile and get started in only a few short steps.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been passionate about healthcare. It offers plenty of complicated problems to solve and is a mission field in many ways, serving people at some of their most vulnerable moments. The idea was birthed out of my own (as well as my co-founders) experience searching for a therapist. I became so overwhelmed trying to find someone to help that I abandoned my search altogether. At a time when I needed counseling the most, I didn't receive it. This is why Therapeasy was founded and what motivates me each day to keep pressing onwards. Mental health has become extremely important in my life, and I want to help as many people as I possibly can.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a business owner, you are constantly faced with the unknown. Every day is spent in the pursuit of moving forward, and every day brings new challenges. I have had to learn how to learn, and quickly! Launching a bootstrapped company means that when something needs to get done, you usually have to do it yourself. I have gained the confidence that even if I don't know how to solve a problem or have never tried something before, I can learn.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
To be honest, one of the hardest things that no one seems to tell you is how lonely it can feel at times. Your employed friends don't understand why you can't just clock out at 5. Your family doesn't understand why you work on the weekends. No one seems to understand the relentless dedication to the business and your mission. And that's ok. What is most important is that you understand yourself and remain self-aware enough not to let those around you discourage you from the path that you choose. And the truth is that you are not alone. I am very grateful for the many communities (such as this one) that bring like-minded founders and entrepreneurs together so that we can support one another.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- The best businesses start around a personal passion/interest or a personal problem. Not an idea that you think will make a lot of money.
- Take the time to really get to know yourself. This includes your strengths, weaknesses, interests, and goals. If you feel lost, then it will be hard to give your business direction.
- Don't wait on someone else's permission to get started or to try new things. The worst thing (failure) that could happen is that you learn and adjust. You got this!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I would encourage anyone who hasn't already to invest in their own mental health. For many, this may include therapy. For others, it looks like self-reflection, meditation, or self-care. We don't need to wait for a crisis to start taking care of our mental health. It can be included in everyday maintenance such as brushing your teeth or exercising. I promise you won't regret it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://therapeasy.co/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therapeasyco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapeasy/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/therapeasy
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/therapeasy/
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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