Christina Rubin sat down with Stereotype to discuss her entrepreneurship journey

What is the name of your business?

Kool Kidz Pediatric Therapy

Where are you from?

Staten Island, NY

What was your first business? How old were you?

Charcuterie Board Business - I was 25

When did you know working for yourself was the way to go?

I knew working for myself was the way to go when I was 24 years old. I was still in physical therapy school, but I knew I always wanted to be my own boss and give myself an opportunity to lead a team. I know I wanted to at least try despite what others were saying about the industry.

Can you talk us through your career to date and how you found your way to where you are now?

I started my professional career working in Downtown, Manhattan with the adult population. I knew I always wanted to work in pediatrics but wasn't 100% sure at the time. I wanted to get as much as experience as possible so I figured the city would be a great place to get experience. The commute from Staten Island took an hour and fifteen minutes in and sometimes about an hour and a half to get home - you could say it was exhausting! It was miserable and I hated it. I thought I had no way out. I started reading books on the bus to pass time, but not just any books. Books on how to open a business, be a leader, run a team, and real estate. I figured this was going to help me find the answers I was looking for to get out of a situation I hated. It wasn't until I read rich dad poor dad I decided to take action. Shortly after, I put an action plan together for what would be known as Kool Kidz Pediatric Therapy today.

What inspired you to start your business?

Growing up my father was always an entrepreneur and owned all different types of businesses. Through his work ethic he was able to provide my family with so much opportunity & I knew I wanted the same for my family someday.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see in your market?

The biggest challenge in my industry is dealing with the insurance companies. Ever year insurance companies' decrease the reimbursement rate for rehabilitation services, especially in small private practice.

Who was one of your biggest supporters early on?

One of my biggest supporters was & is my fiancé Dave. He sacrificed a lot for us to be able to take this leap into entrepreneurship.

What advice do you have for professionals looking to get started in your industry?

If you're a professional looking to get started in this industry I would suggest starting right away and building a plan. Do the research. Go on YouTube. Build connections. Find people that are going to help you. Find people that you can trust. Ask the questions and don't be scared, but don't wait. Start now.

Can you recommend one good business book, business podcast/radio show?

Rich Dad Poor Dad

What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream?

"The work is hard. Do the work"

This is a quote I live by

Instagram: http://koolkidzptnj

Business Website: http://www.koolkidzpediatrictherapy.com