Episode #30

Dr. Stephanie L. Smith

Episode Title:

From Pro Soccer to Purpose-Driven Practice: Dr. Steph Smith’s Path to AIMing Higher

Episode Description:

In this deeply inspiring episode, host April Kemp sits down with former professional soccer player turned chiropractor and business owner, Dr. Stephanie Smith. After a successful collegiate and pro career, Dr. Steph shifted her focus to healing others—founding AIM Chiropractic and Fitness in Marietta, Georgia.

Steph shares how her lifelong passion for movement, mindset, and resilience shaped both her sports career and her dream to create a welcoming space where anyone could feel seen, supported, and strengthened. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or just someone ready to take a leap—this episode will fire you up and move you forward.

Key Discussion Points:

  • [01:27] Steph’s childhood passion for soccer and creativity through sport

  • [02:17] Playing D1 at Penn State and going pro: the hard-earned journey

  • [02:26] Transitioning from athlete to therapist: finding a second passion

  • [03:45] Gaining experience through mentorship and years in the field

  • [06:03] Why Steph never planned to open her own clinic—and why she did

  • [07:23] The vision behind AIM: creating an inclusive, heart-centered space

  • [08:35] The self-talk that fuels her positivity: “Be comfortable being uncomfortable”

  • [09:37] Biggest challenge: learning the business side of medicine

  • [10:45] Her parents’ support and the emotional impact of opening AIM

  • [12:37] Encouraging young girls in sports—and how it builds resilience

  • [14:13] The best part of owning AIM: watching people light up when they walk in

  • [15:40] Out-of-the-box thinking and respectful rule-breaking

  • [16:51] Advice to aspiring business owners: trust your heart, especially in hard moments

  • [17:59] Steph’s original visualization of AIM—crafted in her journal years before opening

  • [21:28] Playing her "winner memory": a comeback game in pro soccer

  • [24:10] Final message to dreamers: leap—even if it’s scary

  • [25:32] A message to parents: “Let them know you're there.”

Notable Quotes:

  • “Be comfortable being uncomfortable.”

  • “Your heart will always tell you the truth—especially in hard moments.”

  • “There's no rulebook for building the life you want.”

  • “We don’t play our winners enough. But the wins shape us.”

  • “Parents: the best thing you can say is ‘I’m here for you.’”

Takeaways:

  • Pro sports build the foundation for lifelong resilience and leadership

  • Building a business is about vision, courage, and creating feeling

  • Visualization is a powerful tool for manifesting your dream

  • Trust your instincts—especially when they go against the grain

  • Support systems (especially parents) matter more than we know

Connect with Guest:

• Website: https://www.aimcf.com/
• Instagram: @aimchirofit
• Email: aimchirofit@gmail.com
• Phone: Reach via website contact form

Connect with Us:

• Follow April Kemp on Instagram: @fanaticaldreamher
• Stay updated: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/
• Email April: april@fanaticaldreamher.com

Join the DreamHer Community:

Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Tag your favorite takeaways with #FanaticalDreamHer—and remember, the world always makes way for the dreamer.