Team Size
1
Revenue
Not Disclosed
Location
U.S.A.
STart Date
2012
Our inspiring interviewee today is Alexa Servodidio, a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist with a private practice in New York.
Alexa is the author of the book “Finding Your Peace Within the Chaos” and Host on her TV show “Ask Alexa” where she helps her audience to find peace within their chaos.
This well-loved TV personality has her own inspiring story to share. Read on below to find out more.
INTRODUCTION
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND THE BUSINESS YOU STARTED.
I would say that I’m someone who is extremely tenacious and has always believed in the concept that it is important to do something that you are passionate about. I went to undergraduate at Pace University and graduated with a degree in Criminal Justice.
In my last semester of undergraduate school, I had to do field work at a mental health hospital, and instantly became enthralled by the notion of being able to give a voice to the voiceless. I was working with a high- risk population of schizophrenics, pyromaniacs, cult survivors etc. I quickly changed gears and decided to go to Fordham to obtain my Masters in Social Work. It truly was a calling.
I continued to work for many years with high-risk patients in some of the most dangerous neighborhoods in N.Y., which really gave me the confidence and tools I needed to open up my practice. I’ve learned so much over the years that it is important for me to share the wisdom of the journey and the invaluable tools that I have given thousands of patients, which is why I started my show and wrote my first book, “Finding Your Peace Within the Chaos.” My second book will be out this fall.
In addition to working in the mental health field, I’ve also been acting and modeling since I was a young girl, having worked with companies such as Ralph Lauren, Nine West and Calvin Klein. I was also featured in Glamour Magazine as a top fitness instructor, which is something I still do today. I think it is important not to limit ourselves to one path. There is nothing that says you can’t be successful and derive pleasure from more than one thing! I think that has been the key to my success.
WHAT DOES YOUR TYPICAL DAY LOOK LIKE AND HOW DO YOU STAY PRODUCTIVE?
Typically, I wake up around 5:45 to 6:30 with my baby daughter Maxson. We have our little morning routine, which is the highlight of my day. I always make sure to grab breakfast and watch the local news before I start seeing patients. I usually go till 8 at night, making sure to find time in between patients to go for a walk or take a ride on my spin bike.
THE JOURNEY SO FAR
PLEASE DESCRIBE THE PROCESS OF LAUNCHING YOUR BUSINESS.
After years of working for agencies I decided to open my own practice in July of 2012. When dealing with agencies you are dealing with a lot of red tape and a lot of bureaucracy. That wasn’t my thing. I am all about the client. In my practice there’s always hope and always a way to come to a resolution together. I consider my time at the agencies like boot-camp. They really prepared me and taught me what I needed to know to venture out on my own.
Once I decided I wanted to open my own practice, everyone really knew I was ready for this journey and they were extremely encouraging. Right away, I rented office space and went into business as a sole practitioner and quickly established for myself the reputation of a therapist who can really work with you to get the job done. I have clients of all ages and circumstances, and I employ a myriad of techniques to help them. I work with issues ranging from eating disorders and relationships to sexual abuse and addiction.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF BUSINESS?
I have a lot of amazing plans that are in the works and that I am excited to share with you. As I mentioned before, I’m getting ready to launch my second book, which will hopefully be out this fall and my talk show has really gone to the next level. I’m tackling more topics and working with incredible guests who share inspiring stories from all walks of life. I really want to be able to take all that I have learned and give it to the community on a larger scale through my brand, which includes, my shows, books, and speaking engagements.
Related: On Starting a Production Company
RECOMMENDATIONS & FINAL THOUGHTS
ARE THERE ANY RESOURCES OR TOOLS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS THAT HAVE HELPED YOU RUN YOUR BUSINESS?
I am a very goal-oriented person. I make lists of things that I want to accomplish and get done… everything from household stuff to financial and planning time to meet friends. Being organized helps me keep everything in balance.
WHAT OR WHO HAS BEEN YOUR GREATEST INFLUENCE IN BUSINESS AND WHY?
My dad was in the entertainment industry and he was incredibly inspiring! He started in the mail room and worked his way up to be the President of RKO Television. He had news stations, television stations, etc. I remember being a child and going with him to meetings with Disney producers.
When I was younger I only wanted to be a model and actress and he said, “You can do whatever you want but you have to get your Masters.” He was in the industry and said, “That is what will make you stand apart.” He was right. That is what made me who I am today.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER WOMEN WHO WANT TO START THEIR OWN BUSINESS?
I would say to use your strengths and passions. Don’t ever underestimate them, as they are what makes you unique. Also, be flexible with your dreams and have guidelines of what it will look to achieve them.
WHAT BUSINESS IDEA DO YOU HAVE THAT YOU ARE WILLING TO SHARE WITH OTHERS?
I would love for there to be a platform where I can connect all the different people and their abilities. A place where people can find out information, ask for advice, essentially a community of networking and for support for both adults and children. I think children need to be taught at a young age to follow their strengths and go after their passions.
IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH OUR READERS?
I think in business and in life networking is key. Every time you meet someone or go somewhere you have to view it as an opportunity for growth.
Violeta Semenova
Founder
theBizLadies
Welcome to the Biz Ladies interview series!
If you’re new to these series, I interview women entrepreneurs on how they started their business, what was the idea behind it, how they got where they are, the struggles, the reality and more.
By sharing their stories, we want to inspire other women to get started.
If you are interested to share your own story on the Biz Ladies LET ME KNOW!