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Scaling Peaks and Business Summits: Ross Tompkins' Journey from Physio to Serial Entrepreneur

Ross Tompkins, owner of multiple businesses and former physiotherapist shares his remarkable entrepreneurial journey.

Ross shares his story of transitioning from a clinical role in physiotherapy to becoming a successful business owner, with a focus on occupational health and innovative business growth strategies.

Through a series of epiphanies, Ross learned to prioritise business skills over clinical skills to expand his impact and success.

Key Points Discussed:

  1. Ross's Background and Early Career:

    • Started as a physiotherapist in the NHS but moved to private practice after 18 months.
    • Founded his first business in 2006, focusing on occupational health physiotherapy.

  2. First Epiphany – Occupational Health Focus:

    • Realised most patients' issues stemmed from their work environment rather than sports injuries.
    • Shifted focus to occupational health and ergonomics to better serve his patients.

  3. Second Epiphany – Importance of Marketing:

    • Recognised the need for marketing skills to grow his business.
    • Stopped clinical training to focus on business growth, resulting in significant expansion.

  4. Third Epiphany – Growth through Acquisition:

    • Lost a major contract but discovered the potential for business growth through acquisitions.
    • Acquired 13 businesses and plans to complete six more acquisitions this year.

  5. Transition from Clinician to Business Owner:

    • Stepped away from clinical work to focus solely on business operations.
    • Discussed the challenges and emotional aspects of changing professional identity.

  6. Managing and Leading Teams:

    • Emphasised the importance of hiring skilled individuals for various roles.
    • Focused on strengths and delegated tasks to experts in operations, marketing, and finance.

  7. Balancing Variety and Focus – The 70-20-10 Rule:

    • 70% on the main thing, 20% on the next big thing, 10% on passion projects.
    • Focused on high-impact tasks while allowing time for creative pursuits.

  8. Educational System and Creativity:

    • Critiqued the regimented educational system for stifling creativity.
    • Encouraged clinicians to apply critical thinking skills to business challenges.

  9. Personal Goals and Achievements:

    • Ross's goal to visit every country and complete the Explorers Grand Slam.
    • Discussed how travel fuels his creativity and business acumen.

Memorable Quotes:

  • “You can be the best therapist in the world, but if nobody knows who you are, how will your clinic grow?”
  • “Focus on your strengths and surround yourself with people better than you in other areas.”
  • “Our businesses are helping people every day, even if I’m not putting my hands on patients anymore.”

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