In a world where many feel the American Dream is becoming a distant memory, Joel Strehl’s journey stands out as a beacon of hope. Growing up in the modest town of Midland, Michigan, Joel might have seemed like any other kid, but he harbored dreams that stretched far beyond the city limits. It wasn’t just about dreaming, though. Joel put in the sweat, the hours, and faced countless setbacks. But with relentless determination and unwavering belief in himself, he transformed those dreams into reality.
At a young age, soccer was Joel’s passion. As the captain of his team, he learned invaluable lessons in leadership, persistence, and the magic of collaboration. However, those lessons were not confined to the soccer field; they became foundational principles that influenced every endeavor he pursued afterward. Interestingly, while the thrill of the game deeply resonated with him, Joel harbored another ambition: to be a doctor.
Joel’s first strategic move was attending Cornerstone University, where he balanced the duality of soccer and academics, majoring in Bio and Health Science with a chemistry minor. In the uncertain period between undergraduate studies and med school, Joel’s commitment to his dream of becoming a Doctor led him to conduct pharmaceutical and cancer research at Van Andel Research Institute. Yet, when he first tried to bridge the gap between dream and reality by applying for med school, he was denied.
It would have been easy for Joel to accept the rejection, to tell himself that perhaps medicine wasn’t his calling. But where others might have seen a full stop, Joel saw a comma. Seeking better counsel and armed with newfound knowledge, he re-applied and was soon treading the sunny paths of a Florida medical school. It was here, amidst the myriad rotations, that he fell in love with surgery and decided to dedicate his professional career to the craft.
While completing med school marked a significant milestone, Joel’s journey to becoming a surgeon was far from finished. His next phase led him to a general surgical residency in Detroit through Michigan State University. There, he sharpened his surgical acumen and also embraced the joys of family life. His daughter was born during his second year of med school, and his son came during his second year of residency. Juggling the rigors of residency with fatherhood would be too much for most. However, for Joel, the bond with fellow residents and the steadfast support of his family were the pillars of strength he leaned on to persevere.
After completing his residency, Joel took up an advanced surgical and trauma care course change “course” to “fellowship” at Wayne State University to further hone his skills. This rigorous training specialized his skill set and eventually earned him a position at Munson Hospital in Traverse City where he fulfilled his childhood dream of being a doctor. After 16 years of rigorous training, he had optimized his skill set and eventually earned a position at Munson Medical Center in Traverse City where he fulfilled his childhood dream of becoming a doctor.
While most would be content with the title of a surgeon, Joel craved more. His ambition went beyond just profit; he sought genuine purpose. In 2019, he unveiled ‘Eternal Wellness Med Spa‘, founded on the belief that “Beauty starts from within.” Unlike typical med spas, Joel’s establishment emphasizes the dual philosophy that looking better leads to feeling better, and vice versa. This unique approach integrates full-circle health coaching and a holistic touch, which sets his spa apart. Though the 2020 pandemic tested its resilience, since their re-launch in 2022, ‘Eternal Wellness Med Spa‘ has continued to thrive and is consistently growing!
For those seeking advice from a man who has walked a challenging path with grace, Joel’s message resonates with profound simplicity. “Put your head down and grind it out, knowing it will be worth it in the end.” He confesses to once being shackled by self-doubt but in retrospect, realizes it was wasted energy.
Dr. Joel Strehl’s journey is a powerful testament that the American Dream is still alive for those who are willing to pay the price for the promise. From playing soccer in Midland to mastering surgeries and building a unique wellness spa, he’s shown that with grit and self-belief, dreams aren’t just dreams—they can be our reality. To connect with Joel and follow along on his journey, you can find him on Facebook and Instagram.
