Get to Know Owner & Chief Everything Officer, Meri
Mer
How did you get into the physical therapy industry? For as long as I can remember, I've been interested in mind, body, spirit wellness. I always loved exploring nutrition and fitness, and then in college, I decided to study Psychology to learn more about human behavior. It was a fantastic major, but I knew that ultimately I wanted to incorporate that into something more business oriented. With that, I pursued a Master's degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology (contributing an organization's success by improving the selection, performance, motivation, satisfaction and overall well-being of employees). Ultimately this led to a career in higher education, but I was always an entrepreneur at heart (thanks dad). I knew I wanted to have my own business someday, so after Geno (husband and co-owner) completed his DPT, I knew this was the perfect opportunity and industry.
What do you like most about your job? I am so passionate about movement and physical therapy. It's like you have a secret that can change lives...the ultimate way to move better, sleep better and perform better. So many people don't know the solution is right under their nose. That's what excites me everyday.
What's your role at Iron? Like most small business owners, I do a little of everything -- leadership, marketing, finance/accounting, HR, operations, insurance billing, etc. I most love to spend my time on creating an exceptional experience for both patients and staff. I also love marketing because I enjoy writing, using my creative side and getting the word out about what we do. There’s definitely no typical day, but I work from home, so this is my office where all the magic happens...
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How do you like working with your husband? We really compliment each other well. We share the vision for the company, have a similar risk tolerance and drive for growth, place the highest value on our team and strive for life balance. But even in the 21st century, it seems hard for people to understand that we are partners and I might flinch if you say, "so you help Dr. Mayes with the business.” The truth is that we help each other and equally love and drive our business. Just had to say that!
Where did you grow up? I grew up on six acres in Far Hills, NJ with my parents and two sisters. I love them all to pieces. Here's a pic with my extended family.
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Where did you go to school? I attended Furman University in SC (that's where I met Geno) and UNC-Charlotte for graduate school. Here's a pic of us as college sweethearts - lol!
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What was your first job after college? I worked for GE in human resources and then transitioned to career services for the next seven years. I worked at Pace University (NYC) and Seton Hall University. I loved higher ed!
Who's at home? My husband of 20+ years, our two amazing daughters and our fur-baby.
How do you like to stay active? Anything Outdoors, Cycling, Yoga, Running, Triathlons, CrossFit! I think movement heals everything.
How would friends describe you: I asked a few besties, and they said -- Tenacious, Authentic, Grace-Giving, Grateful, Passionate, Courageous and Dynamic. How sweet are they! The one I own the most is grateful. I've always looked at life with deep appreciation and believe, "the world owes you nothing."
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Hidden talent? Hobbies? Real Estate. To put Geno through school, we flipped a few houses and did all the renovations ourselves. Thanks to Google and YouTube, I learned how to do everything from tiling and sheetrock to design and staging. I even got my real estate license so I could list the homes myself. It was challenging, but fun, and we made it to graduation with no loans!!
One thing on your bucket list? Become a snowbird (I strongly dislike NJ winters)
Mountain cabin, beach house or big city condo? Beach House!
How many pairs of shoes do you own? A lot, but thanks to my PT husband, I have far fewer flip flops : (
Do you play a musical instrument? No. Unfortunately, I'm not at all musical.
At which store would you like to max-out your credit card? Costco!!! Best store ever.
Favorite....
Author? Brene Brown
Food? Sushi and Ice Cream
TV Show? HGTV of course
Ice Cream Flavor? Mint Chocolate Chip
Drink at Starbucks? Summer = Iced Coffee, Winter = Latte