How Weight Loss Practice Builder Began

And why I love what I do. 

We all have a “why” behind the work we do. It’s what keeps us going when things get tough and reminds us that what we do matters. For me, that “why” started years ago with a vision, a lot of grit, and a deep belief that weight loss practices can thrive when they’re built with strategy and heart. 

How It All Began 

My story starts in Virginia, where I live with my husband, Dr. Thomas W. Clark – who happens to be a bariatric surgeon and a visionary who’s always one step ahead of the curve. In 2008, long before it was common, he became board certified in obesity medicine. Together, we built a comprehensive medical and surgical weight loss practice that included fitness, nutrition, and a retail store, all under one roof. Between the two of us, we also published 9 Amazon best-selling books – always looking for ways to help others succeed. 

Our practice combined insurance and cash-pay models, serving patients locally and across state lines. Practitioners would learn about the Center for Weight Loss Success and ask me, “Is this a franchise?” or “Can I replicate this where I am?” That question planted the seed for what would later become Weight Loss Practice Builder. 

Why I Started Weight Loss Practice Builder 

The decision to start consulting came from a blend of passion, frustration, and a desire to help other practitioners avoid the hard lessons we learned along the way. 

1.  Learning to Market Effectively 

Early on, we spent a lot of money on marketing campaigns that looked good on paper but didn’t bring new patients through the door. Perhaps you can relate. Over time, we built our own system, leaning into organic marketing, patient stories, and trust-building strategies. Once we understood what actually worked, we saw patient inquiries and referrals soar. 

2.  Bringing Marketing In-House 

Instead of relying on expensive agencies, we trained our own team, cross-trained roles, and created marketing processes that truly reflected our brand and patient experience. This shift changed everything. We connected with our patients more deeply and grew in a way that felt authentic, not forced. 

3. Falling in Love with Consulting 

When my husband retired from surgery on his own terms after performing nearly 7,000 primary weight loss surgeries, I knew I wasn’t done. Over the years, and currently, I’ve had the privilege to consult for companies like Medtronic, Robard Corporation, and ProNex, Inc., create webinars, and write content that supports practitioners like you. I love connecting with organizations and individuals who genuinely care about helping patients succeed. 

4. Accelerating Growth for Others 

One of my favorite things to do is step into a practice, quickly assess what’s working (and what’s not), and build a blueprint for growth and systematized, predictable success. I love shortening the learning curve so others can achieve in months what took us years to master. Watching practices flourish is truly the best part of what I do. 

What I Love Most: Seeing Transformation Happen 

Recently, I helped launch a new comprehensive metabolic and surgical weight loss program at a progressive health system, and they are already rock stars. Seeing their growth reminds me why I started this work in the first place. I love connecting practitioners to that free them from the “hamster wheel” and position them for real, sustainable growth. 

It’s not just about the business. It’s about seeing practice owners:

• Build confidence in their programs.
• Grow their teams with intention.
• Reach more patients and transform more lives. 

That transformation is pure joy. 

The Real Secret: Revisiting Your Why 

Let’s be honest—every business comes with challenges. Long days, tough seasons, personal and professional curveballs. In those moments, coming back to your “why” is what gives you the fuel to keep going. For me, it’s about impact—helping practices succeed so they can help more patients live healthier, happier lives. And, believe me, I get to work with the most amazing practitioners and their teams. 

I’m also incredibly grateful for my team. At Weight Loss Practice Builder, we have the most supportive group of people who help bring this mission to life every day. None of this happens alone. 

A Personal Invitation 

If you’re building or growing a weight loss practice and want a partner who’s walked the path before, I’d love to connect. Whether it’s through my free resources, blogs, webinars, or personalized consulting, my goal is to help you simplify your growth and build a business you truly love. 

👉 Visit weightlosspracticebuilder.com/free for practical tools to get started.
👉 Or email me directly at [email protected]. 

Here’s to building something meaningful—together.