We had the good fortune of connecting with Ravi Patel and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ravi, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I’m inspired by my parents. My parents immigrated from India to the US for more opportunities and a better life for our family. They started their own business way before it was cool to be an entrepreneur. They didn’t let a language barrier, being the only Indian family in our hometown, or lack of financial resources limit them from achieving the life they wanted. They sacrificed blood, sweat, and tears; all so me and my brother could have the opportunities they didn’t.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My company and passion is The ACL Athlete, a hybrid online and in-person physical therapy and performance training company with a special focus on ACL injuries. In the US, physical therapy is driven by the insurance model, and in return, people get poor care. It is money-driven rather than health and outcome-driven.
I wanted this company to be different and for people to receive help no matter where they are in the world; for clients to be heard and at the center of their care, and not live in fear of movement and confidently get back to the things they love to do.
I got to where I am today because of all the people who believed in me and gave me the opportunities to learn, grow, and make my own mistakes. It definitely wasn’t easy. I started my company in February of 2020, a month before the Covid-19 pandemic started. It turned out to be the biggest blessing in disguise. I was given an opportunity to really grow the digital side of my company. The biggest lesson I learned was to take imperfect action. As humans, we try to wait for the right time or when things are “perfect” to take action. There will never be the “right time” and perfection is arbitrary. Imperfect action moves the needle and gets you towards your goals and vision.
I want people to know that there is a better option for your health and care. You don’t have to settle for poor care. With technology, we have access to the other side of the world now. Use it to make the best decisions for you and your health.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We would kickstart by going to Mercedez-Benz to watch Atlanta United play a match. We’d make our way to the beltline for some food and drinks. The options are endless, the people-watching is even better. We’d go to Krog Street Market to check out hop city and all the food spots with a personal favorite of Fred’s Meat and Bread. If pizza was the choice, we’d go to Nina and Rafi’s no doubt. For a cool sunset, we’d make our way to the top of the Lindbergh Marta parking garage where you can see the city skyline. Some other spots we’d visit: 3 Taverns Imaginarium, Cooks and Soldier, Fox Bros. BBQ, Superica, Little Rey for tacos (or pretty much any Ford Fry restaurants, MLK Memorial, Piedmont Park, Buford highway hole-in-the-walls, Braves and Falcons game. The list is endless.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family, friends, and mentors. Special shoutout to my wife, Abigail Patel, and big brother, Rishi Patel, who have been in my corner since day 1.
Website: www.theaclathlete.com
Instagram: ravipatel.dpt
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ravipateldpt/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/theaclathlete