Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Theodore Levarda, Owner of Morningside Acupuncture, located in New York, NY, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Morningside Acupuncture specializes in treating pain, sports injuries, and stress by combining traditional acupuncture and dry needling in New York City. Our customers range from professional athletes and dancers to anyone dealing with acute and chronic pain or stress.

Tell us about yourself

My first experience with acupuncture came when I was dealing with back and hip pain from exercising a lot and chronic stress from a fast-paced finance job. Acupuncture was so helpful that I became curious about how it worked and decided to leave my finance career to pursue an acupuncture career. I always wanted to have my own business and help others, and this felt like it was meant to be for me.

I am motivated each day by the lack of awareness and understanding around acupuncture and its effectiveness in treating pain and stress. Acupuncture is often a last resort for many patients, and one of my goals is to educate people on its usefulness before we are the last resort for them.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is building an acupuncture practice that patients have come to trust and feel good about visiting. It's extremely rewarding to help people feel better without needing prescription drugs or surgical intervention. I take my responsibility to serve our patients very seriously, and any time they refer a friend or family member, it is a testament to our hard work and dedication to providing the best possible acupuncture experience.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

One of the hardest things as a business owner is juggling all the hats you have to wear. You are ultimately responsible for all aspects of the business, so that means I am more than just an acupuncturist. I am constantly learning about ways to optimize and improve the business, whether it's marketing, patient management, or finance/accounting.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Make a plan and keep track of your progress. Stick to the plan but recognize when adjustments need to be made.
  2. Find and hire good people around you, so you don't have to do everything yourself. This will help you avoid burnout and make your business more sustainable.
  3. Find a mentor and lean on others who have been there before you to guide you.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

You'll never be bored being a business owner. Entrepreneurship provides a constant stream of challenges, rewards, and learning experiences.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.morningsideacupuncturenyc.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morningsideacupuncturenyc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/morningsideacupuncturenyc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/morningside-acupuncture/


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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