Anyone who meets Gretchen Rakowski quickly realizes how special she truly is. I’ve had the privilege of witnessing this firsthand on the sidelines of my grandson’s baseball games. Gretchen is compassionate, caring, and always encouraging. Each week, she cheers for every boy with her signature phrase: “Let’s go 4-4, you got this.”
During the week, Gretchen is a physical therapist who can significantly impact her patient’s recovery journey. Gretchen brings not only expertise in healing but also a personalized approach that addresses her patient’s unique needs and goals. Through tailored exercises, hands-on techniques, and constant encouragement, she helps restore mobility, strength, and confidence. Her guidance can reduce pain, prevent further injury, and accelerate your return to daily activities. If you know Gretchen you know that she is also a motivator, ensuring that her patient’s stay on track, and empowers them to reach their fullest potential, making all the difference in a successful recovery.
Gretchen grew up in a small town in northern Wisconsin, where she developed a passion for sports. She excelled in basketball, volleyball, and softball, earning a reputation as an outstanding athlete. In her free time, she enjoys staying active through workouts, playing sports or games with her family, spending time with friends, and exploring new places.
About Gretchen Rakowski
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am married and we have two amazing sons.
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
After high school, I earned my undergraduate degree in Exercise and Sport Science with a focus on Fitness from UW-La Crosse. I spent a couple of years working as a Personal Trainer and group exercise instructor before being accepted into graduate school. I went on to receive my Doctorate of Physical Therapy from UW-La Crosse as well. Currently, I work as a Physical Therapist in an outpatient setting at Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin. In my role, I actively support my patients in achieving their goals, helping them return to their previous level of function—or even surpass it.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
Being part of my patient’s rehabilitation journey and seeing their faces light up after they have overcome an activity they have been working towards.
Q: What was the most difficult challenge in getting to where you are now or in your life?
Being a non-traditional graduate student and having to maintain a specific GPA throughout graduate school.
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
Earning my Doctorate in Physical Therapy and becoming a mother are two of the accomplishments I’m most proud of.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in doing something similar to what you have done/are doing?
Pursue your dreams and remember that the things truly worth having in life are always worth the effort and the wait.
Gretchen Rakowski & Our Community
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community, favorite thing to do, or something unique about our community that you love? (Feel free to share as much as you’d like!)
Enjoying ice cream while strolling along the lake, watching ski shows, attending concerts in the park, exploring the farmers market, and taking part in the many events throughout the Lake Country area, all topped off with hiking adventures.
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop, or restaurant?
Twisted Vine Wine Shop and Bar
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe our community?
Active, Supportive, Dynamic.
For Fun
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I only have one first rib.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My sons.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Travel to Hawaii.
Q: What makes you the happiest?
Being with my family.
Nice To Meet You:
I believe in positively impacting my clients and the community I live in, which is why I jumped at the chance to be an ambassador with “The Faces of Lake Country”. It’s a perfect blend of why I enjoy being a Realtor with Shorewest, Realtors, and everything I love about living in Lake Country.
I truly enjoy being a part of this community and helping others along the way. Prior to real estate, I was an Office Supervisor for the City of Waukesha Park & Recreation Department. During this time, I had the opportunity to work with many business owners and serve the general public. It was there that I realized that it really does take a village to make a community great and each and every one of us plays an important role.
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