46. Run Your Practice Like a CEO: With Jennifer McGurk, RDN, CDN, CEDS-S

March 26, 2024

Most dietitians go into private practice for the right reasons – we just want to help people and make a difference in our communities. We all go through standardized, rigorous training to prepare us for doing this.

However, there’s a critical piece often missing from our formal education – the know-how of running a private practice as a successful business. Having a CEO mindset is essential for the growth and scalability of our practices, but it’s challenging to cultivate when you’re navigating uncharted waters without a compass.

If you are overwhelmed with all the tasks and responsibilities associated with running a private practice, Jennifer McGurk is here to be your guide. With over a decade of experience, she supports those just starting or looking to expand their practices with the tools they need for success.

Here’s what we covered:

What should RDs be thinking about before starting a private practice?
What are the key tools to have in place for opening a private practice?
What are different strategies for RDs to grow their practice?

In this Episode:

[01:52] Jennifer tells us about who she is, who she caters to, and the methods she employs to serve them.

[06:28] What are some of Jennifer’s valuable offerings, such as her complimentary webinars?

[09:44] We focus on individuals contemplating the start of their private practice plus those encountering challenges.

[15:32] “Once you have ten clients, you’re going to be a little bit more confident in the fact that you can do this.” – Jennifer

[19:56] We discuss operating your business with the mindset of a CEO and Jennifer outlines six essential mindset categories.

[25:47] Approaching her sixtieth year, Jennifer reflects on the person she aspires to become.

[30:24] Jennifer talks about carefully assessing your strategy and having specific reasons for selecting mentors.

[35:24] Digital courses have become easily accessible, providing value in innovative ways.

[39:45] We talk about the practical aspects of private practice and how to decide to work with a business coach.

[44:15] How Jennifer employs motivational interviewing techniques and assists clients in understanding the causes of their perceived failures.

[51:01] Jennifer explains that establishing clear boundaries with her client selection has been instrumental in her practice.

[54:43] The promotional aspect of a private practice requires recognizing individual needs and tailoring strategies accordingly.

[01:04:01] Your Content Cure for This Week

Your Content Cure for This Week

Your Content Cure for this week is a list of resources from our guest, Jennifer McGurk, RDN, CDN, CEDS-S.

>> DOWNLOAD YOUR RESOURCES HERE<<

About Jennifer McGurk, RDN, CDN, CEDS-S

Jennifer McGurk RDN, CDN, CEDS-S is the founder and CEO of Pursuing Private Practice. She began her career in business as a dietitian in private practice. She grew her private practice into a group practice and eventually expanded into speaking, offering workshops, and supervising other professionals.

Pursuing Private Practice started as a passion project teaching other professionals about business, but eventually scaled into online courses, a membership program, and a business coaching mastermind. Because of her passion and determination to empower other business owners, Pursuing Private Practice has served hundreds of clients in Business School and the EXPAND business coaching program.

Pursuing Private Practice is a top-rated business podcast. Jennifer’s mission is to encourage others to take up space in business.