Meet Matt Kelson | Physical Therapist

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

Hi Matt, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I burned out as a physical therapist in traditional settings after only about 2 years. I was taking on a lot of responsibility and lead roles in those positions I had previously held, from developing a physical therapy program in one clinic, to being a lead PT with another job responsible for an entire community building.

I figured if I was putting in that much time and energy for someone else that I should instead put that energy towards myself and continue to help get people better in a way that also kept my health in mind too.

My end goal is to create something that provides easier access to care and that allows me to create a better life for myself, my wife, and our future family.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The thing that sets me apart from others is how much I invest in other people. I think that was a major factor in wanting to start the business because I wasn’t able to invest in other people with my previous positions.

I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown mentally and how much healthier of a relationship I have with failure in multiple aspects.

These 18 months of business have not been easy. I made so many mistakes and had so much to learn in the first 12 months that it’s only now that it feels like I have some traction and stability. To even get to the point of starting a business it took 9 years (7 years of education and 2 years working) and then a massive leap of faith which is probably not always the best idea for someone who experiences anxiety and depression.

The most important lessons I’ve learned along the way are that failure is an amazing learning experience rather than a negative experience to be avoided.

I’d like for people to know that this practice I’ve created is for them. I genuinely want to see people succeed, enjoy life, and thrive.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a coffee addict I’m taking them to Hooked On Colfax, first thing, because if Tom is there you’ll will meet arguably the most sassy barista in the city.

For food there are so many amazing places but I’ve got to make sure they get to are Bang Up To The Elephant, Fellow Traveler, and Blue Sake Sushi Grill as those are some of the best restaurants in a city because those will provide you a sample of what the city has to offer.

They’ve got to get at least one hike in and Staunton State Park or St Mary’s Glacier are two options that are short and manageable but provide some incredible views.

Lastly they’ve got to get out to Wash Park, City Park, and Cheeseman Park as all three of these places are full of life and great views especially now during the spring.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost my wife Jenn.

Not only did she encourage me to start the business but she has helped push me to grow in so many ways since I started. One of the most important things has been encouraging me to find a therapist to make sure that I could process through a lot of the challenges that come from starting a business.

On the business side of things PTBiz and Danny Matta’s book The Cash Based Practice Field Manual deserve a shoutout. They helped me get the framework I needed to start the business.

Website: https://www.threelionspt.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/threelionspt

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/threelionspt

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThreeLionsPhysicalTherapy

Image Credits
Tony Ciccone Photography