Lauren Byrd

About

Lauren Byrd is an experienced healthcare leader focused on bringing innovative concepts to industry to increase access and equitable health outcomes to underrepresented populations while developing executive and emerging leaders to do the same. She opened FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers – Stone Oak in January 2023to provide innovative wellness and physical therapy to the local community.

In addition to her physical therapy clinic, she works as an independent consultant and provides advisory services to her clients to advance healthcare and human services delivery, optimize operations and improve financial performance using her experience in directing and managing complex healthcare operations. 

Prior to embarking on her entrepreneurship career, Lauren served 21 years in the United States Air Force after receiving her commission from the Reserved Officer Training Corps program at Baylor University.  She retired from active military service in 2022 at the rank of Colonel.  She is a decorated combat veteran who held leadership positions in healthcare administration and care delivery operations.  She successfully led diverse teams to surmount a spectrum of complex challenges, both stateside and overseas, and received multiple promotions and awards along the way. With her experience and passion for health equity, her move into small business ownership in the healthcare space was a natural transition.

Lauren holds graduate degrees in Business Administration, Healthcare Transformation, and Strategic Studies. She is a board-certified Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives and advocates for lifelong learning. She provides training and advancement opportunities for her staff, resulting in additional certifications and improved patient care.

She was awarded the State of Texas Governor's Small Business Outstanding Innovator Award for her contributions to economic development. She believes in nurturing future healthcare professionals and has educational partnerships with the University of Texas San Antonio and St Phillips’ College to offer student internship experiences.

Outside of her professional life, Lauren is actively involved in the community. She is a volunteer driver for Meals on Wheels of San Antonio, fighting against food insecurity and a lead teacher in the nursery at Lifehouse Church San Antonio, caring for Christ’s youngest followers.  She served as the Vice President of Ways and Means for the local elementary school Parent Teacher Association.  She is also a member of the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, National Association of Women Business Owners - San Antonio Chapter, and Masters Leadership Program of Greater San Antonio Alumni Association.