Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanisha Butler.
Hi Tanisha, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in Redlands, CA, with a single mother. When I was 18 years old, I was approached by a talent agent. We exchanged information, and I decided to move out of my mom’s house, move in with the talent agent, and pursue my aspirations of becoming a model. It turned out to be a nightmare and nothing like promised. I ended up being mentally and physically abused and limited to the things I could do. She repeatedly told me that I sucked and would never make it as a model. She also told me on different occasions that I would never make it in life. A year and a half later, I was able to escape from the toxic situation; I moved to Westlake Village and worked two minimum-wage jobs back-to-back to make ends meet. Eventually, I met a doctor who offered me a job in his office, which led to me managing his social media and eventually becoming the CFO of his corporation. I also went back to college and graduated with a business degree from W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. Following the passing of the doctor I worked for, I successfully hired two doctors to continue to take on the caseload that was left behind. One of the two doctors ended up taking over the practice and making it his own. I am now the practice manager of a busy cosmetic surgery and med spa center.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. The core struggle lies within the horrific experiences of mental and physical abuse I endured. The limitations I faced, the constant undermining of my self-esteem, self-worth, and self-doubt, and the overall toxic, unsafe environment I was trapped in were deeply traumatic.
I had to work hard to rebuild my life as I faced financial hardships; working two minimum-wage jobs just to make ends meet was an incredibly difficult period requiring immense resilience. The past trauma of abuse took a toll on me as I’ve struggled with trusting others and forming new relationships.
Also, pursuing a degree while working full-time is difficult on its own, but when combined with the need to process and heal from trauma, it becomes an even bigger test of your determination.
Losing the doctor who provided me with mentorship, opportunity, and likely a sense of stability has been incredibly painful. That, combined with the uncertainty of the practice’s future, led to significant stress and the need to adjust quickly.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In my role as the office manager at the cosmetic surgery and med spa center, I wear many hats. I collaborate on budgeting and expense management and develop and implement financial strategies that ensure profitability. Additionally, I oversee all business operations, planning and coordinating activities to achieve corporate goals and maximize efficiency.
Strategic planning is another crucial aspect of my work. I lead the development of a comprehensive business plan, aiming for long-term financial sustainability and growth. Furthermore, I manage the scheduling and execution of corporate events, ensuring they align with company objectives and contribute to our overall success.
On the human resources side, I handle credentialing for new providers and maintain accurate records for existing ones. I also manage payroll processing, ensuring timely and accurate payments for all employees. Additionally, I manage digital marketing, developing strategies to increase brand awareness and attract new patients.
Given my personal journey, what I believe sets me apart from others is my immense resilience: overcoming challenges, enduring severe abuse, and independently rebuilding my life showcases my unwavering determination and strength. I have a strong work ethic and drive; working two minimum wage jobs to support myself, pursuing a degree while building a career, and then successfully ensuring continuity of care at the practice when it was all left up to me.
My progression from escaping abuse to becoming a CFO of a medical practice demonstrates my ability to learn quickly, adapt to new situations, and thrive in different roles. Not only did I survive someone deliberately undermining my potential, but I went on to achieve success in a highly competitive field, showing a strong mindset and the ability to silence inner critics.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was a big-time tomboy. I always wanted to be out with the boys and do everything they did. I played basketball, football, BMX biked, scootered, skateboard, rollerblade, you name it, I did it! I was very active and competitive. I was also very quiet and shy.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
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