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

Hi Jennifer, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
As a nurse practitioner, I have always loved helping others. I have always wanted to be able to help others in a way that could fit the needs of each individual through convenience to achieve optimal health. I wanted to start my own clinic where I could talk to my patients and connect, but not feel rushed. As a mom, wife and business owner, I understand how busy life can be and also how important everyone’s health is. My goal is to help my patients quickly and effectively so they can enjoy their life and feel their best! Whether its a quick visit for a sick child, someone who needs IV hydration or even weight loss goals, I wanted patients to be able to receive care quickly and feel they were heard. When my patients feel good, it is reflected in all aspects of their life and that in turn brings me joy!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I began my career as an RN in 2006. I always had a passion for helping others at a young age and knew I wanted to be a nurse. Once I fulfilled this, I wanted more. I thought I could advance my RN career and quickly wanted to become an advanced provider. I became a nurse practitioner in 2011 and quickly fell in love with Emergency medicine where I continued my career and still work on occasion. I have worked many roles to include family medicine, pediatrics, urgent care and even hospice. All teaching me knew things. I loved medicine in general and being able to fix a problem. Not only a problem, but something that could change someones life, day or outlook. As my career advanced, I wanted even more, but now had a family and young children. I wanted to be able to still help others, but in a convenient way for patients where they felt connected to their healthcare provider. This lead me to the business idea of a wellness clinic.

My career in general hasn’t always been easy, but I have learned so many valuable lessons. I think any healthcare provider would be willing to tell you its a “practice” and therefore not perfect. There are many lessons to be learned on the daily, but in turn, those lessons have expanded my knowledge. I had many hard lessons and mistakes, but learned to turn those to triumph at times and excel. I have met some of the most amazing physicians, PAs, nurses and healthcare providers along the way, many of which have helped me become who I am today. I want others in this field to know that you can do anything you put your mind to and that medicine is humbling. There is so much to be learned from one patient’s story or one shift.

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?
My favorite spot in the city is probably downtown Phoenix. My husband and I used to live downtown near Chase stadium and it was some of my favorite times. There is such a variety of individuals and cultures. I love the small family owned restaurants and people you can meet. Learning the history of Arizona and exploring museums is a unique experience as well. As family, we visit downtown frequently for the newest museum exhibits and particularly the children’s museum. We love to try new places and restaurants as well! One of our favorite is Pizzeria Bianco. The shopping is always fun with small boutiques and coffee shops!

No matter where you go in downtown Phoenix you are sure to be entertained!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My biggest support throughout this process has with no doubt been my family. My husband has been immensely supportive and pushed me to pursue my passion when I thought I couldn’t do it. My kids and parents/sibling have encouraged me to do what brings me joy while still juggling life. There can be so many crazy moments as a working mom and even feel overwhelming. The love and support I received is the only reason I kept going and made my dream a reality.

Website: azivandme.com

Instagram: @azivandme

Facebook: IV and Me

Yelp: IV and Me

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