In this episode, I sit down with Chelsea Matthews, founder of Catalyst Physical Therapy and Performance in Nashville. We dig into what it really takes to build a cash practice from scratch, especially when you are wired more like a visionary than an integrator. From bartending with zero business background to building a gym-based PT practice that is moving toward 90 percent digital, Chelsea shares her journey, her systems (and mistakes), and how she is learning to scale without burning out.
We also talk about niching down into runners, CrossFitters, and how to stay focused when you have a million ideas but not enough time.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- ✔️ Visionaries Need Systems – If you’re more of a creative type, you have to find someone who loves the details. Chelsea talks about reaching that tipping point where things start falling through the cracks.
- ✔️ Burn the Ships – Chelsea’s mindset shift: “What if I just pretend things won’t go back to normal?” That mental reframe helped her go all in on digital services and problem-solve at a higher level.
- ✔️ Hands-Off Doesn’t Mean Less Effective – Going from manual therapy to 99% hands-off telehealth didn’t just work—it empowered clients more and scaled Chelsea’s reach beyond Nashville.
- ✔️ Start With Clear Training Systems – If you’re hiring your first admin, record your process now. Simple screen recordings saved in Google Drive = future training gold.
- ✔️ Know Your Weaknesses Before You Hire – Using tools like the Visionary/Integrator test helps you avoid bringing on someone with the same flaws you’re trying to solve.
🧠 Pro Tip:
“You do not need to put your hands on someone to make a difference. The best coaching often comes from clear communication and giving people the tools to fix themselves.”
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