We had the good fortune of connecting with Erin Slivka and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erin, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I really just wanted to provide the best care possible to my clients. The Health Care industry is largely influenced by insurance companies, thus sometimes the care you receive is tailored toward the greatest reimbursement possible from these insurance companies, not just toward the patient and their needs. Having my own business allows me the flexibility to allow the care needs of my patients to be the top priority.

What should our readers know about your business?
I have two businesses that I am very proud of. The first, Optimum Therapy and Wellness, is my Physical Therapy practice. I am proud to be able to care for others as a Physical Therapist and help others return to their BEST physical capabilities. I have treated children as young as the age of 2 and adults that were 102! It is SO rewarding to be a part of someone’s enhancement as a competitive athlete, or journey toward recovering from an illness, injury, or surgery. The second is our Non-Profit; Unharnessed Potential. We started this Non-Profit as a means to give back to other soldiers and veterans. Unharnessed Potential incorporates Horses as part of an experiential Mental Health and healing program. Last year I obtained both my PATH and EAGALA Equine Specialist certifications so I could assist as part of the team that offers this amazing therapy. We have 4 horses and a beautiful 11 acre farm in Fountain, CO where we are blessed to do this amazing work! Our services are available to everyone, but Wounded Warrior Program has made it possible to offer our services free of charge to Veterans and their families. I think one of the most important things that have shaped my journey is loving what I do, and my passion for helping others. Yes, running these businesses take a LOT of work and dedication, but for me, loving what I do and what I GET to do makes it not seem like work at all.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, my best friend would do the incline, run a remote trail or explore a little known canyon with me, because the abundance of natural beauty that Colorado Springs has to offer is simply spectacular! Garden of the Gods is a definite MUST for everyone that comes to visit, and Seven Bridges is a great hike as well. As far as food, I really enjoy Prime 25 and Bonefish Grill.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Wow…too many to list here! I have had SO many amazing influences in my life, but I would say that outside of my family, all of my biggest supporters, mentors and others that have driven me toward the path I am on today have all been associated with my Army journey. My USMA sisters and brothers as well as those I have been honored to serve with and serve as patients and clients continually motivate me and drive my passion to give back and care for others.

Website: unharnessedpotential.com

Other: optimumtherapyandwellness.com

Image Credits
EmmieB Photography!

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.