Iris Grimm represents a unique blend of heritage, experience and talent that is focused on assisting physicians as they deal with the stresses of a modern medical practice. A remarkably diverse set of circumstances has influenced the development of Iris' contribution to the medical community.

She was born to professional parents in East Germany, and grew up behind the Iron Curtain at the height of the cold war. Her mother practiced dentistry nearby their home, along with her physician aunt who had a thriving medical practice. Iris was exposed to the practice of medicine close up under circumstances that allowed a unique perspective of the stresses associated with balancing a medical career with family and life priorities. This early experience undeniably influenced Iris' passion for and connection to the plight of physicians struggling with a constantly changing environment.

As she was growing up, she found ways to personally cope with a challenging atmosphere, one of which spawned a lifelong commitment to athletics and healthy living. In communist East Germany athletic pursuit was one way to excel in a society where opportunity was limited. The mental toughness required for competitive athletics resulted in a strong work ethic, a foundation that Iris discovered she has in common with physicians.

When the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, it was as though blinders were removed from Iris' eyes - she was no longer limited by the cultural blindness imposed by a totalitarian state. She discovered the world filled with possibilities. This attitude has persisted throughout her career, and is very evident in her coaching style today. She brings a truly insightful approach to coaching physicians; one that is characterized by intelligence, conviction, and practicality.

It is apparent, even after a short conversation with Iris, that she has a great desire to help, coupled with the ability to contribute in important ways. Physicians who have worked with her in The Balanced Physician Program agree that her core values of order, freedom, family, and health come together to create one of the most valuable encounters they have experienced in their practices and their lives. Iris' partnership with a physician always results in a heightened level of accomplishment, both professionally and personally. In her words, "nothing less is acceptable".

In 2007 Iris' story was published in the book "Beautiful Women - Like you and Me".