Meet Ben Bumguardner | Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ben Bumguardner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ben, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started my own business because I believed that striking out on my own, without the immediate comfort and guidance of a mentor or boss, would ultimately make me stronger and more self-reliant. I realized that if I had someone always there to lean on, I might use that as a safety net and not push myself as hard to find solutions independently. Being my own boss compelled both my wife and me to dig deep, problem-solve, and truly understand the ins and outs of running a business—skills we now know like the back of our hands. Another significant reason was my upbringing; I grew up watching my dad run his own business, which instilled in me a strong entrepreneurial spirit. It was almost as if it was ingrained in me from an early age to carve my own path and create something meaningful.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Our career journey at Alpha Sports Performance Medicine has been one of growth, challenges, and many rewarding moments. What sets us apart from others is our collective commitment to excellence and our deep dedication to every patient who walks through our doors. At Alpha, we’ve built a brand that centers around a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to athlete care. Our team of experts—chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists, and nutrition specialists—work together to treat the whole person, not just the injury. This collaborative approach allows us to provide personalized care tailored to the unique needs of each athlete, and it’s what truly sets us apart.

We’re incredibly proud of the community we’ve built and the impact we’ve had on our patients’ lives. Witnessing athletes return to their sports stronger and more confident, or helping individuals achieve personal bests they never thought possible, are the moments that inspire us daily. The most exciting part of our journey is knowing that we’re always evolving, learning, and growing, and that our best days are still ahead.

Getting to where we are today wasn’t easy. As a team, we’ve faced moments of doubt, financial struggles, and many behind-the-scenes challenges. One of the significant setbacks we experienced was opening a second location that didn’t succeed, resulting in a considerable financial loss. However, these challenges taught us resilience, adaptability, and the importance of learning from every experience, no matter how tough. Through it all, our faith has been our guiding light, and it is by God’s grace that we’ve been able to persevere and continue serving our community.

The lessons we’ve learned along the way are invaluable. Humility, persistence, and a willingness to learn are key to overcoming obstacles. We’ve also come to understand that building a successful practice isn’t just about financial success; it’s about creating a space where patients feel heard, valued, and cared for. It’s about fostering a community and a team that shares a vision of empowering athletes to exceed their own expectations.

We want the world to know that Alpha Sports is here to make a lasting impact in sports medicine. Our story is one of faith, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of our patients. We’re not just a clinic; we’re a family committed to helping each person reach their full potential. Whether you’re an Olympic athlete or a weekend warrior, our team is here to support you on your journey to health, performance, and resilience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend was visiting College Station, Texas, for a week, I’d want to give them the full experience of what this vibrant town has to offer. Here’s how we’d spend our time:

Day 1: Arrival and Local Flavors

Lunch at Fuego Tortilla Grill: As soon as my friend lands, we’d head straight to Fuego’s for some of the best tacos they’ll ever have. The casual vibe and unique taco options make it the perfect introduction to College Station’s food scene.
Afternoon at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum: After filling up, we’d dive into some local history. This museum offers an incredible look at American history through the lens of one of our past presidents, and it’s a must-visit for anyone new to the area.
Dinner at Hopdoddy Burger Bar: To wrap up the first day, we’d hit up Hopdoddy’s for some gourmet burgers and craft beer. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for catching up after a long day.
Day 2: Outdoor Adventure and Local Brews

Morning Hike at Lick Creek Park: We’d start the day early with a hike at Lick Creek Park. It’s a beautiful area with plenty of trails for hiking and bird-watching, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
Lunch at 1860 Italia: Post-hike, we’d swing by 1860 Italia for some delicious Italian fare. This spot is known for its great pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas, perfect for refueling.
Afternoon at New Republic Brewing: In the afternoon, we’d visit New Republic Brewing to taste some local brews. It’s a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the local craft beer scene.
Dinner at Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café: We’d end the day with something sweet and savory at Sweet Paris. From crêpes to salads, they have a diverse menu that’s sure to satisfy any craving.
Day 3: Aggie Spirit and Live Music

Brunch at Hullabaloo Diner: This authentic 1940s diner is a local favorite for breakfast and brunch, offering everything from classic pancakes to unique breakfast dishes.
Tour of Texas A&M University: No trip to College Station is complete without a tour of Texas A&M. We’d walk around the campus, visit Kyle Field, and soak up the Aggie spirit.
Afternoon at Century Square: After exploring the campus, we’d head to Century Square for some shopping and people-watching. This area is a hub of activity with lots of stores, restaurants, and live entertainment.
Dinner at The Republic Steakhouse: For a taste of upscale Texas dining, we’d go to The Republic. Known for its steaks and extensive wine list, it’s a perfect spot for a memorable dinner.
Live Music at The Tap: We’d wrap up the day with live music at The Tap, a popular hangout with great tunes and a lively atmosphere.
Day 4: Day Trip to Lake Bryan and Downtown Bryan

Morning at Lake Bryan: We’d take a day trip to Lake Bryan for some outdoor fun. Whether we’re paddleboarding, kayaking, or just lounging by the water, it’s a great place to unwind.
Lunch at Caffe Capri in Downtown Bryan: After a morning at the lake, we’d head to Downtown Bryan for lunch at Caffe Capri, known for its Italian comfort food.
Afternoon Exploring Downtown Bryan: We’d spend the afternoon wandering through Downtown Bryan, exploring its unique shops, art galleries, and street art.
Dinner at Ronin Farm & Restaurant: To end our day in Bryan, we’d eat at Ronin, a farm-to-table restaurant that uses local ingredients to create a unique dining experience.
Day 5: Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Brunch at Stella Southern Café: We’d start our day with a cozy Southern-style brunch at Stella Southern Café, enjoying their famous biscuits and grits.
Spa Day at Galleria Spa Salon Boutique: To unwind after a few days of exploring, we’d treat ourselves to a spa day at Galleria Spa Salon Boutique. A massage and some pampering would be the perfect way to relax.
Dinner at Messina Hof Winery & Resort: For a special evening, we’d head to Messina Hof for dinner and a wine tasting. It’s a great spot to enjoy some fine wine and a gourmet meal in a beautiful setting.
Day 6: Local Art and Farewell Dinner

Morning at The Children’s Museum of the Brazos Valley: If my friend has kids, we’d spend the morning at this fun, interactive museum. It’s great for children and adults alike.
Lunch at Layne’s Chicken Fingers: A local legend, Layne’s is the perfect spot for a quick, delicious lunch.
Afternoon at Benjamin Knox Gallery: We’d visit the Benjamin Knox Gallery to explore some local art and perhaps pick up a unique piece as a memento.
Farewell Dinner at Madden’s Casual Gourmet: To cap off the trip, we’d dine at Madden’s in Downtown Bryan. Known for its eclectic menu and intimate setting, it’s a great place to reflect on the week’s adventures.
Day 7: Departure

Breakfast at Kolache Rolf’s: Before heading to the airport, we’d stop at Kolache Rolf’s for some traditional Czech pastries. It’s a unique Texas experience and a tasty way to say goodbye.
This week-long itinerary captures the essence of College Station and Bryan, offering a blend of culture, outdoor activities, and local cuisine. It’s the perfect way to show my friend what makes this area so special!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! Success is never a solo journey, and I’ve been fortunate to have an incredible support system along the way. First and foremost, I want to give credit to God. Without His guidance and strength, I wouldn’t be here today, and Alpha Sports Performance Medicine would not have sustained itself over these past almost eight years. His presence has been a constant source of comfort and direction, especially during challenging times.

I also have to shout out to my wife, Suzete. She’s been my rock, my sounding board, and my greatest supporter. Without her encouragement and partnership, Alpha Sports Performance Medicine wouldn’t be where it is today.

I want to recognize my parents, especially my dad, who was an entrepreneur himself. Growing up watching him run his own business, I learned the importance of hard work, resilience, and staying true to one’s vision. His example has been a guiding force for me.

Additionally, I owe a great deal to my mentors and peers in the chiropractic and sports medicine community. From sharing knowledge and experiences to offering invaluable advice during tough times, their support has been instrumental in my growth.

Lastly, I have to mention the Alpha Sports team. Our success is a collective effort, and every single member has played a vital role in creating the culture and standard of care that sets us apart. They truly embody the spirit of collaboration and commitment to excellence.

I’m grateful to all these individuals and groups for shaping my journey and helping me build something I’m truly proud of.

Website: https://AlphaSports.org

Instagram: instagram.com/dr_ben_bumguardner / instagram.com/alphasports_cs

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-bumguardner-dc-ccsp-004a2b75/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ben.bumguardner / https://www.facebook.com/AlphaSportsCS

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alphasportsperformancemedi9662