Welcome to the Pursuing Private Practice podcast!
Join Jennifer McGurk, the CEO of Pursuing Private Practice, and Courtney Vickery, a valued team member and a multi-passionate entrepreneur in the weight-inclusive space, as they dive deep into the journey of building a successful private practice. In this special series, they explore the five distinct stages of business: SET UP, START, GROW, LEAD, and COAST. Each stage comes with its own set of emotions, challenges, and action steps, and they’re here to guide you through them all. Whether you're just setting up your practice or looking to expand and lead a team, they’ve got insights and resources tailored for you. Join them for stories, lessons learned, and expert advice to help you run your business like a CEO.
Get ready to take up space in business and redefine what success means for you.
Introducing each stage of business:
In the SET UP stage of business, you're laying the foundation to officially open your practice within 30 days. This phase is all about taking action and shifting into the mindset of a business owner. It's a time to make important decisions, like defining your ideal client and creating your first offer, while navigating the legal aspects of your practice. While this stage is filled with excitement and hope, it's also normal to experience anxiety and fear.
In the START stage of business, it's time to actively present your practice and announce that you’re open for business. This phase is all about experimenting with different marketing strategies, refining your systems, setting boundaries, and discovering your unique counseling style. As you build your skills, you'll gain confidence in your ability to market your business and deliver client results. Although this stage is exciting, it can also be frustrating at times, especially when you feel overwhelmed with balancing so many different tasks.
In the GROW stage of business, you'll focus on expanding your reach, refining your marketing, and improving your systems—all while continuing to serve your clients effectively. During this stage, you’ll experiment with different strategies to grow your audience and streamline your business. You may feel proud of your progress but also feel the pull to transition into full-time entrepreneurship, especially if you’re currently balancing a job. Both the excitement and the challenges you face are part of the journey.
The LEAD stage is all about stepping into a leadership role that helps you grow your business without burning out. It’s not just about constantly growing—it's about making your business more efficient, finding ways to take a step back when needed, and setting up systems that keep things running smoothly. Whether you’re preparing to coast or just want to focus on leading your team, this stage is about building a sustainable business that works for you. It’s a chance to refine your leadership skills and make sure your business is set up for long-term success.
The COAST stage is all about reconnecting with your "why" and giving yourself the permission to take a breather when you need it. It might be the most important stage of your business journey because it’s all about recharging, refocusing, and keeping things going at a pace that works for you. Whether you're working through burnout or just enjoying the space after a period of hard work, slowing down can actually be a big step forward for your business.
No matter what stage you’re in, this series will inspire you to take bold action and build a business that works for your life. It’s time to take up space in business!
Timestamps:
This episode gives you a quick overview of each stage, so you can reflect where you are and decide which episodes in the series are going to help move your business forward. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes dedicated to each stage of business this month!
Courtney Vickery, MS, RD, LD is She's an anti-diet dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor with her own private practice, Vickery Wellness. She is also the CEO of Declet Designs, her website and branding studio for weight-inclusive businesses.
Find Courtney on Instagram at @decletdesigns
Want more from Pursuing Private Practice?
Business School is officially open for enrollment, and it’s the best way to get direct support for your private practice. This program combines business coaching, accountability, office hours, and the most supportive community of dietitians you’ll find.
Plus, it includes a full curriculum designed to help you at every stage of business!
In September, Business School will evolve into a mastermind program with two tracks: one for starting and growing your practice, and one for leading and building your team. No matter where you are, you’ll get the resources, support, and confidence to run your business like a CEO. Join now to lock in current pricing!
Enrollment closes July 25th, so now’s the time to join us and take the next step toward building a business that works for your life.
📱 Find us on Instagram @pursuing.private.practice