“Go with the Decision That Makes You Most Uncomfortable”—Stefanee Clontz’s Growth Mindset

Send us Fan MailHow do you know when it’s time to leave a “comfortable” role for something that will truly stretch you? In this engaging episode, Thomas Helfrich talks with Stefanee Clontz, Director of Operations at The Hydra+, a growing med spa brand in metro Atlanta. Stefanee shares how she cut the tie to a stagnant role, embraced a massive challenge, and grew into a leader managing multiple locations and an expanding list of wellness services.From a start in journalism to a career in aesthetics, Stefanee’s journey proves it’s never too late to redefine your career—and that growth often comes when you choose the more uncomfortable path.About Stefanee Clontz:Stefanee Clontz is the Director of Operations for The Hydra+, overseeing three med spa locations in Sandy Springs, Buckhead, and Virginia Highland, with a fourth on the way. With nearly two decades in the aesthetics and wellness industry, she specializes in building patient loyalty, expanding service offerings, and leading teams through growth. Stefanee’s background ranges from TV journalism to clinical operations, giving her a unique perspective on both storytelling and client care. Her mission is to create wellness experiences that keep clients coming back—not just for the services, but for the people delivering them.In this episode, Thomas and Stefanee discuss:Cutting ties with a career identityStefanee shares how she let go of her early dream to be a TV news reporter and pivoted into a completely different industry.Choosing the uncomfortable optionWhen faced with two job offers, she took the one with more responsibility and the opportunity to create new service lines from scratch.From clinician to operations leaderHow Stefanee grew beyond the treatment room into overseeing everything from IT issues to staff management.Balancing ambition and familyStefanee opens up about missed soccer games and late nights, and the importance of a supportive family who understands the mission.Gratitude for trust and opportunityShe reflects on the owner who took a chance on her and the team that supports her vision.Key Takeaways:People are the true differentiatorProducts can be copied—relationships and trust cannot.Growth often requires discomfortChoosing the harder, less certain path can lead to the most significant personal and professional growth.Support systems matterSuccess is easier when your family and inner circle understand and back your mission.You have more time than you thinkStefanee reminds us not to compare timelines—many successful careers start later than you’d expect.Connect with Stefanee Clontz:💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefaneeescay/📍 The Hydra+ Locations: Sandy Springs, Buckhead, Virginia Highland, GA🌐 Website: https://www.thehydraplus.com/Connect with Thomas Helfrich:🐦 Twitter: https://twitter.com/thelfrich📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/cutthetie💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomashelfrich/🌐 Website: https://www.cutthetie.com📧 Email: [email protected]🚀 InstantlyRelevant.com: https://www.instantlyrelevant.comSupport the showhttps://www.youtube.com/@cutthetie