Imagine launching a business where every conversation is deeply personal, every client is facing their own battles, and your success hinges on more than just profit margins, it’s about transformation.
That’s the world of Bradford Stucki, a licensed marriage and family therapist turned entrepreneur. His journey from the structured walls of academia to the unpredictable world of business offers a masterclass in adaptability, resilience, and the power of trusting the process.
From Passion to Profession
Like many young professionals, Bradford’s career path wasn’t a straight line. Initially exploring various fields, he found himself drawn to the complexities of human relationships. Through his master’s program, he worked with individuals, couples, and families, but it was the family dynamic that truly captivated him. There was something deeply fulfilling about guiding an entire family unit toward healing and growth.
Yet, the reality of working within existing therapy structures left him yearning for more control. He noticed that some cases resonated with his skills and passion, while others drained his energy. The idea of launching his own private practice became increasingly appealing, not just to tailor his work to his strengths, but to create an environment where both he and his clients could thrive.
The Business Side of Therapy
Transitioning from therapist to business owner wasn’t just about setting up a practice; it was about stepping into the unknown. Unlike his education, which trained him extensively in therapy techniques, there was no step-by-step guide on how to run a business.
But that didn’t stop him.
Bradford immersed himself in learning, scouring the internet, engaging in Facebook groups, and absorbing everything he could about marketing, business management, and financial planning. He experimented, pivoted, and refined his approach, always keeping an open mind.
One of his biggest lessons?
Business is a constant work-in-progress. Perfection is a myth; adaptability is the key.
Setbacks and Lessons Learned
Of course, no entrepreneurial journey is without its bumps. Bradford faced his fair share of challenges, from tax mishaps to the anxiety of pricing his services appropriately. There were moments of stress, but he leaned on his support network, sought advice, and most importantly, kept moving forward.
One standout lesson? The power of pricing. Like many service-based entrepreneurs, Bradford struggled to confidently charge what he was worth. After researching competitors, testing price points, and, yes, even doubting himself, he learned a critical truth: The right clients will come when you value your own expertise.
Fear is Fun, And Other Wisdom for Young Entrepreneurs
Bradford’s advice to aspiring business owners is refreshingly simple: just start. There will always be doubts, but taking action is the best way to push through them. He recalls a childhood friend who loved cliff diving into water, despite the fear. When asked why, his friend’s response stuck with him: “Because fear is fun.”
It’s a powerful reframe, seeing fear not as an obstacle but as an essential part of growth.
For young entrepreneurs, Bradford’s journey serves as a reminder that business isn’t about having all the answers upfront. It’s about being curious, seeking knowledge, and embracing the unexpected. With persistence and an open mind, you might just surprise yourself with what you can build.
So, to all the youngpreneurs out there: take the leap. You don’t need to know everything, just enough to take the next step. And remember, fear isn’t something to avoid. It might just be the thrill that makes the journey worthwhile.
Connect with Bradford Stucki:
You can find Bradford Stucki at Bridg
Highlights
- 01:01 Bradford’s Career Path and Private Practice
- 02:04 Working with Families and Therapy Outcomes
- 04:33 Advice for Young People on Career Choices
- 06:02 Starting and Managing a Private Practice
- 08:58 Overcoming Business Challenges
- 15:47 Setting Prices and Valuing Services
- 19:14 Surprising Aspects of the Therapy Profession
- 20:44 Final Advice and Reflections
