STP 27 | Amazing Things Happen When Amazing People Get Together with Whitney Owens
Jun 19, 2023
Welcome to another episode of Scaling Therapy Practice, where we dive deep into topics that help you grow your business and find inspiration. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Whitney Owens, who is an expert in organizing conferences. We'll explore the world of conferences and discover how they can refresh your soul and scale up your business. So, let's jump right in!
The Magic of Bringing Amazing People Together
Conferences have a unique power to bring people together and create unforgettable experiences. As Whitney shares, "Amazing things happen when you get amazing people together." It's not just about the knowledge and information exchanged; it's about the connections and relationships formed.
Whitney's love for in-person interactions and her extroverted nature led her to the world of conferences. She reminisces about the joy she felt when planning her own wedding, not only because of the marriage but also because she wanted to throw a big party. It was a chance to gather all her loved ones in one place, creating a special and memorable event. This desire to bring people together translated into her passion for organizing conferences.
Creating Lasting Connections at Therapist Conferences
Conferences provide a platform for like-minded individuals to connect and grow together. Whitney shares a heartwarming story of a group of friends who met at her summit and formed a deep bond. They would never have crossed paths if it weren't for that conference. These connections are invaluable, opening doors to new ideas, business growth, and personal development.
It's not all about the Lectures at a Therapist Conference
Aside from the professional benefits, conferences offer opportunities for fun and exploration. Whitney emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and having a good time. She recalls her experience in Nashville, where she got to enjoy line dancing, dine at local restaurants, and go on refreshing jogs. These experiences outside the office setting allow for relaxation, inspiration, and the chance to create lasting memories.
Overcoming Fears and Challenges
While conferences hold immense potential for growth and connection, they also come with their fair share of fears and challenges. Whitney candidly shares her own apprehensions and how she works to overcome them.
The Fear of Finances
Money is a common fear when it comes to organizing conferences. As the scale of the event grows, so does the financial commitment. Whitney acknowledges this fear and the pressure of breaking even while wanting to offer an exceptional experience without exorbitant ticket prices. However, she remains optimistic and driven to make her conferences both financially viable and rewarding for attendees.
Mastering Logistics
For someone like Whitney, who is a logistics-oriented person, ensuring everything runs smoothly is a significant concern. From securing venues to handling accreditations, there are numerous moving parts that need careful coordination. Whitney discusses the challenges of obtaining continuing education accreditations for her conference and the fear of potential denials. Despite the complexities, she remains determined to navigate this aspect and deliver a seamless experience to attendees.
Lessons from Past Therapist Conferences
Whitney's first conference provided valuable insights that she carried forward to improve subsequent events.
Engaging Speakers and Uniqueness
One key takeaway is the importance of engaging speakers who bring unique perspectives. Whitney ensures her conferences stand out by incorporating a blend of clinical and business components, catering to the specific needs of Christian therapists who want to build their practices. By offering a distinct experience, she sets her conference apart from others in the industry.
Embracing Fun and Creativity
Whitney believes in infusing her events with fun and creativity. She challenges the notion that being a Christian means a life devoid of enjoyment. By incorporating enjoyable activities and innovative elements into her conferences, she aims to show attendees that they can excel in their work while having fun and maintaining their faith.
Make Something Amazing Happen
Harnessing the Power of Conferences Conferences offer a unique blend of learning, networking, and personal growth. Whitney's experiences as a conference organizer emphasize the power of bringing people together, overcoming fears, and creating unique and memorable experiences. By attending conferences, you can expand your horizons, forge valuable connections, and step out of your comfort zone.
Action Steps:
- Research conferences related to your industry or interests and make plans to attend one that aligns with your goals.
- Actively engage with fellow attendees and speakers at conferences. Seek out conversations, share ideas, and nurture relationships that can support your personal and professional growth.
- Embrace the adventure and push through your fears. Recognize that growth and opportunity lie beyond your comfort zone, and take calculated risks to seize them.
- When organizing your own events, infuse your personal touch and find ways to make them stand out. Offer a unique value proposition that resonates with your audience.
- Remember to have fun and enjoy the experiences that conferences provide. Take advantage of networking opportunities, explore the location, and create lasting memories.
Links and Resources
- Get an Audible Subscription and invest in yourself
- Build a web page with Squarespace
- Whitney’s Group Practice Water’s Edge Counseling
- Wise Practice Podcast
- Whitney Owens
- Whitney on Facebook
- Whitney on Instagram: @WhitneyOwensConsulting
- 4 Tips for Marketing with Churches
- Wise Practice Summit in October 2023
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