Meet Dimitri Defrant | Doctor of Physical Therapy & Cocktail Influencer

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

Hi Dimitri, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
As my family grows, so does my perspective on balance. Since 2020, I’ve married my college sweetheart, moved from South Florida to metro Atlanta and back, and now we’ve got a full house with two under two. I work full-time as a home health physical therapist and create daily cocktail and mocktail content, all while showing up as a present husband and father.

My definition of balance has shifted from chasing perfection to embracing flexibility. Some days run smoothly, others are more chaotic, but I’ve learned that balance isn’t about having everything in sync all the time. It’s about staying grounded in what matters most and adapting as life evolves… And with kids it’s always evolving.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My handle, @Dr.OnTheRocks, is more than a clever name, it reflects where I am in life. I’m a Haitian-American Doctor of Physical Therapy who also enjoys the craft of a good cocktail (or mocktail). With my clinical background, I understand the value of moderation and inclusion, which is why I create drinks that everyone can enjoy. Whether they’re imbibing or abstaining. To me, cocktails and mocktails are about connection, culture, and shared experience.

Getting here took more than just creativity. It took dedication, self-reflection, and a lot of personal growth. I grinded through undergrad at FIU and earned my DPT at the University of St. Augustine’s Miami campus. But the journey wasn’t easy. After my first year of PT school, I hit a wall of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. I questioned if I belonged in the field at all.

What kept me going was my support system; my parents, close friends, and my now-wife, who constantly reminded me of my worth and potential. I even printed out “Dr. Dimitri Defrant, PT, DPT” and taped it to my bedroom wall. I saw it every morning and every night. That simple act of visual affirmation grounded me and carried me through the highs and lows.

Now, I use that same sense of vision and discipline to fuel my creative side. I’m most proud of the community I’ve built, where cultural storytelling, craft mixology, and health awareness all intersect. My Haitian-American roots play a big part in that. From honoring Caribbean ingredients to celebrating heritage through cocktails.

I want the world to know that my brand is rooted in authenticity. Whether I’m in scrubs or behind the bar, I’m here to educate, inspire, and raise a glass to the balance between purpose and passion.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m not big on itineraries, but if a friend’s visiting South Florida, we’re definitely hitting Hollywood Beach. Can’t beat the vibe or the views. Hollywood Brewing Co. is a must: solid beers, steps from the sand.

For food and drinks, we usually rotate between Voodoo Bayou for bold flavors and Louie Bossi for good Italian and even better cocktails. And after living in Atlanta for three years, I’ve grown to appreciate a good brewery. Tarpon River and Funky Buddha are two of my go-tos.

Honestly, it’s about good drinks, good company, and being near the water. Everything else is just a bonus.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The Defrant Clan. My wife Solana, Daughter Jasmine and Son Julien. My parents Jacques & Kettly. Siblings Kenly & Sarah and my late niece Islah Kiyomi Defrant.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.ontherocks?igsh=MXg1aWx0Nnh4NmV1MQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

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