Founder Spotlight: Motor Mouth Therapy's Journey to $1M While Building a More Inclusive Future

For Caitlin Bruder, entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a business—it’s about breaking down barriers for families who need support the most. As the co-founder of Motor Mouth Therapy, she set out to create a company that not only provides speech therapy but also ensures families have access to the resources and services they need, no matter their circumstances. We had the opportunity to learn more about Caitlin through the Fall 2023 Cherokee Women Accelerator, a program designed to support Cherokee, Women-owned businesses in refining their strategies and scaling their impact. As Motor Mouth Therapy continues to expand, Caitlin reflects on the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the vision that keeps her moving forward.

What inspired you to start your business?

My “why” is personal, like many entrepreneurs. I grew up in a single parent household, with my mom and older sister with disabilities. I had first-hand experience at how unaccommodating our world is for those with disabilities and their families. My days were spent going from one appointment to another with my sister. I even called my sister, “good girl” because that’s what I constantly heard her therapists say to her. My first steps were in her physical therapist’s office. I knew I wanted to do something to help meet families where they’re at –– to help lessen the burden on families of children with disabilities. My mom passed away before I even graduated college, and I often think of how different her life could have been had there been more resources to ease her stress. This is why I founded Motor Mouth Therapy, with the idea that we will offer parental support, whether that’s navigating insurance, state funding, or school services. We are unique as therapy company because we also offer on-site services, meaning in a child’s home, daycare, or school, so parents aren’t traveling to numerous appointments a week.

What advice would you give yourself in those early days of building your business?

I would tell myself to not be afraid to ask for help or hire help earlier. I love my company, and I love what I do, but I’ll be honest that this growth has come with lots of tears. There were plenty of days wondering how I could keep doing it all, and the answer is I can’t do it all. No one can do it all. Bring in the help, utilize the resources around you.

How did your mindset evolve over the course of the Program? 

Everyone will tell you that entrepreneur life is lonely. And it’s true. I am the first of many things in my family and entrepreneur is one of them.  

StitchCrew has built a community of support, resources, and love. It’s given me a community to run to with questions and guidance. The empowerment we all received from the program is unmatched.

Were there any specific moments in the program that helped you in reaching this milestone?

The program forced me to do some much-needed self-reflection. Our weekly meetings & access to extraordinary entrepreneurial mentors lead me to having important conversations about growth, policies, and procedures to hit the $1M revenue mark. Specifically, I remember a mentor meeting with Dante Biss-Grayson when I was feeling completely overwhelmed and like I couldn’t keep up with the growth my business was experiencing. He listened to my concerns and questions and offered me feedback that helped me set up my business for success. We talked through all the policies and procedures that needed to be established to alleviate some extra stress I was experiencing. The community I have with the founders in my program has also been so encouraging. Amber Sharp, owner of ClaimRev, has been a constant support since I met her in the program. Her business has also helped my company streamline the insurance billing process.

What role has your culture played in shaping your idea of building a business?

‘Gadugi” is a Cherokee word that means working together or helping each other. It’s something that’s engrained in the Cherokee culture and it’s something I take pride in carrying over into my business.

It’s helped me remember the importance of community and that this is not a one-man show. It’s the amazing team we’ve built that are the backbone of this company.

What drives you to keep pushing forward, even when things get tough?

When things get tough, I often read my parental reviews. It sparks a memory of a client or family I’ve had the privilege of working with and it reminds me why I do what I do. The lasting impact Motor Mouth Therapy is building in communities makes the chaos worth it.

What does this milestone mean to you personally and for your business?

This is just the beginning. It’s reminded me that anything is attainable. When I first started Motor Mouth Therapy, my idea was that I could leave my low-paying job at a school or just supplement my income. I never dreamed of hiring a large team or being able to build what I have today. Yet, over the years each little milestone has widened my dreams and visions for this company. I remember my first client, the first claim I submitted, the first new hire, the first school contract. Building this company from the ground up has been such a privilege, and it’s allowed me savor each little milestone, that has led to this big one.

What advice would you share with other entrepreneurs on their journey to their first $1M?

My advice is to keep going. During times when it all feels too overwhelming, remember your why. Savor each bit of growth, and never get too caught up in the big picture.

What’s your long-term vision for your business and its impact on your community?

I hope that Motor Mouth Therapy can reach more rural areas of Oklahoma and even start looking into other states of service.

I want people to see the name Motor Mouth Therapy and know that they can come to us for community and resources. That we will help bridge the gap in therapy, education, and resources.

About Motor Mouth Therapy Motor Mouth Therapy provides in-home and on-site pediatric therapeutic services, including speech and occupational therapy. By working closely with families and school districts we ensure children receive the support they need in familiar, everyday environments, making therapy more accessible and impactful.

We currently serve 13 public/charter school districts across the state of Oklahoma and have built partnerships with 3 private schools in the Tulsa area. Summer of 2024, we opened our first brick and mortar office in Catoosa, OK. We serve roughly 100 families between our Catoosa office and home-health clients in the Tulsa suburbs. 

To learn more visit MotorMouthTherapyOK.com or connect with Caitlin on Linkedin.