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

Hi Dr. Erin, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Since starting my own business and being a solopreneur, it is very crucial to maintain a work-life balance. I am constantly creating new boundaries for myself which helps establish this balance and know that it’s ever-evolving. Since I am in charge of making my own schedule, it is very easy to get caught up in work and never “shut down” so finding that balance, scheduling time to yourself is very important.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
As a Naturopathic Physician, I treat the cause. What sets me apart from others is I am your own individual health detective and through comprehensive health history taking and lab work, I likely can find answers to your health concerns that have been dismissed, overlooked or unexplained for years. To be able to give my patients hope is what keeps me going day after day. There is nothing about becoming a physician that is easy. Lots of blood, sweat and tears go into receiving this medical decree and the learning doesn’t stop at graduation. The decision to branch out on my own and open my own practice was also a huge life lesson and pivotal moment because I learned that “ready is a lie” and it’s OK to take imperfect action. Life works in crazy ways and honestly, if it weren’t for my cancer diagnosis in 2010, I would not be here today doing what I’m doing. To say I was scared was an understatement, but it honestly was the defining moment in my life. I always wanted to be a doctor, but gave up on those dreams because I was sick of being in school, and instead worked in the bar and restaurants, but always knew I could do and be more. After 6 rounds of chemotherapy, a positive attitude with a side of determination and sass I became a survivor. Receiving this diagnosis and kicking its butt gave me the drive, the motivation and determination to get out of my own way and become that doctor that I always wanted to be. Not only did it give me my defining purpose in life, but I learned a lot about myself and really how strong I truly was. Having had a cancer diagnosis at such a young age, my mission and passion now is to empower those to take control of their health now before it is too late. This diagnosis proved to me that life is too short to feel sub-optimal and given the right tools, your body has the innate ability to heal itself.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We would definitely be taking a day trip to Sedona to get out of the heat! Sedona is a must see while you are in Arizona. I can’t even describe it here, you have to see it on your own! In addition to Sedona, visiting some of my favorite places to eat, mostly Mexican, which include Backyard Taco, Loco Patron and TeePee finished off with some custard from Andy’s Frozen Custard. Depending on the time of year, I would also take her hiking at San Tan! There are some many places to visit in AZ, I’m not sure a week is enough time!

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?
Honestly, there is no single person who has contributed to my success and accomplishments thus far. I first have to recognize my family as without #teamellis I would definitely not be where I am today without their support and encouragement. As far as professional mentorship, the list is honestly endless, but Lindsey Schwartz, owner and founder of Powerhouse Women, encouraged me to get out of my own way and take the leap into starting my own practice-if I had not attended her live event in 2019, I am confident I would not have taken the leap. I also have to shout-out my business coach I meet with weekly, if not daily-Dr. Jackie Noelke, founder of ND Community and thank her for her continuous support with business growth and development. I would also not be the physician today without the mentorship of Dr. Paulson, Dr. Ewald, Dr. Miller and Dr. Winnett.

Website: http://drerinellis.com/
Instagram: @dr.erinellis
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drerinellis/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drerinellisnmd/
Other: Free Facebook Group: East Valley Natural Wellness: https://www.facebook.com/groups/502019330675353/

Image Credits
Stacey Poterson