After pursuing her calling of becoming a Naturopathic Doctor, Dr. Eliza Klearman opened her own micropractice in her small town. She now sees patients both in person and virtually, and focuses on word of mouth, networking with local practitioners, and utilizing blogging and social media to grow her practice. Her interview inspires us to reach out for help when we need it, and to find a mentor we can connect with.
What inspired you to become a holistic entrepreneur?
I really believe that becoming a Naturopathic Doctor was my calling. The philosophy completely aligns with who I am and how I want to live my own life. Sharing this skill set with my patients allows me to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. When I graduated from school, there weren’t any jobs available in my field, so I really had no other option than to become a business owner.
Tell us about your business.
I have a micropractice in a small town. It is just me and my patients!
How would you describe your current business model?
I see patients in person and virtually. I try to keep it very simple.
Can you share any strategies you’ve found to be particularly effective for growing your client base?
Word of mouth is really the best and most effective way to build a practice. It has also been helpful to build relationships with local doctors and practitioners. I also keep an active blog and Facebook page which helps keep me in front of my followers.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in running your business?
I LOVE my line of work but honestly running a business has been hard for me. I have struggled with the logistics and procedures. I really think my business training has not been that great and I am always in search of people who can help me.
How have you overcome those challenges?
I have had to ask a lot of people a lot of questions!
What were some of the first mistakes you made that you would tell a new holistic entrepreneur to avoid?
Don’t be afraid to ask people for help and get yourself a mentor or two. I tried to go it alone and figure things out for myself at first and there was quite a big learning curve.
What has been the best piece of advice you’ve received as an entrepreneur?
Take care of yourself!
What is your morning routine?
I cuddle with my husband, then hop out of bed to exercise. In the summer, my husband and I do a quick morning walk, but in the colder weather I head to my home gym. I spend a little time with my kids before they are off to school. Then I try to sit in the quiet and drink a cup of coffee before I start my day.
What is your favorite indulgence?
I love Molten lava cake and creme brulee. I hardly ever order them, but those are my favorite treats.
Most exotic thing you’ve ever eaten?
A tree tomato! So delicious!
Most memorable place you’ve ever visited?
I am completely and totally in love with Kauai, but we got to go on a safari in Kenya. That I will NEVER forget!
Last book you read?
Ember Burning by Jennifer Alsever. A fun YA read!
If you could only have one kind of food for the rest of your life, it would be…
I think I would have to say apples with almond butter.
What is your go-to breakfast?
My ‘breakfast’ is typically my lunch, which is usually a big salad or left-over dinner.
What do you love most about being an entrepreneur?
The freedom and flexibility to do what I want to do in the way I want to do it.
Eliza Klearman is a Naturopathic Doctor and Acupuncturist based out of Colorado. You can find out more about Eliza and her business by visiting www.drklearman.com and facebook.com/drklearman.
