Provide: The Path to Owning It

70. Acquiring MP Copiers with Sean McIlroy

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 10:00:00 -0000

For some entrepreneurs, the idea of ownership doesn't come from a lifelong dream. It comes from a conversation, a transition, and a willingness to bet on yourself when the road ahead isn't clear.

In this episode, we sit down with Sean McIlroy, West Point graduate, former U.S. Army Green Beret, and owner of MP Copiers in Northern Virginia, who discovered entrepreneurship through acquisition after a decade of military service. What started as a passing suggestion from a friend evolved into an 18-month search, a disciplined acquisition process, a business that checked every box, and a deal that closed in March 2026.

Together, we discuss:

What ten years of military service really teaches you about risk, chaos, and leading people
How he discovered entrepreneurship through acquisition and why it felt like the right fit
What 18 months of searching actually looks like and how he stayed the course
The criteria he used to evaluate businesses and why he looked past the "trendy" options
The financial trade-offs of the search and what made it survivable
The leadership adjustment every new owner has to make about the people already on their team

If you've ever stood at a transition point and wondered whether ownership could be your next chapter, Sean's story offers an honest and grounded look at what it really takes.

Are you ready to take control of your future and start building your legacy? Visit ⁠⁠getprovide.com⁠⁠ to pre-qualify for financing in as little as two minutes, with no impact on your credit score.

Provide is a division of Fifth Third Bank, National Association. All opinions expressed by the participant are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions of Provide, its affiliates, or Fifth Third Bank. The participant’s opinions are based on information they consider reliable, but neither Provide, its affiliates nor Fifth Third Bank warrant its completeness or accuracy and should not be relied upon as such. This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute the rendering of legal, accounting, tax, or investment advice, or other professional services by Provide or any of its affiliates. Please consult with appropriate professionals related to your individual circumstances. All lending is subject to review and approval.

69. Building and scaling Healthy Pet Veterinary Clinic with Dr. Kate McGowan, DVM

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:00:00 -0000

For some entrepreneurs, building a business isn't just about what they're creating — it's about who they're becoming in the process.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kate McGowan, DVM, owner of The Healthy Pet Veterinary Clinics in the Atlanta area, who built a boutique veterinary hospital from the ground up while raising a family and carrying six figures of student loan debt. What began as a late-night conversation on the couch evolved into two thriving locations, a debt-free life, and a business designed intentionally around the people she loves most.

Together, we discuss:

What it really feels like to leave a safe job for something uncertain
The honest conversations she had at home before taking the leap
The shift in family dynamics that made the business possible
Designing a schedule, culture, and team around family — not in spite of it
The Profit First method and the financial habits that fueled long-term stability
Learning to let go, hire slowly, and trust the people around you

If you've ever wondered whether you can build something meaningful without losing yourself in the process, Dr. Kate's story offers a candid look at what it really takes.

Are you ready to take control of your future and start building your legacy? Visit ⁠getprovide.com⁠ to pre-qualify for financing in as little as two minutes, with no impact on your credit score.

68. Starting REATA Commercial Realty with Bob and Jan Gibbons

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For some entrepreneurs, starting a business isn’t just a leap of faith — it’s a leap taken together.

In this episode, we sit down with husband and wife Bob and Jan Gibbons, who built their commercial real estate business over time — first as a solo venture, and eventually as a shared commitment. What began as a response to a layoff evolved into a long-term partnership rooted in trust, specialization, and a willingness to grow together.

But working together didn’t come with a blueprint.

Together, we discuss:

What it feels like to build a business after unexpected job loss
The leap from “helping out” to fully committing as co-owners
The tension of giving each other responsibility and authority
Learning to define roles, stay in your lane, and let go of control
How outside mentorship helped them align around a shared vision

If you’ve ever wondered whether you could build something meaningful with your spouse — without sacrificing the relationship in the process — this conversation offers an honest look at what it really takes.

Are you ready to take control of your future and start building your legacy? Visit getprovide.com to pre-qualify for financing in as little as two minutes, with no impact on your credit score.

67. Building Podcamp Media with Dusty Weis

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0000

For some entrepreneurs, starting a business isn't a lifelong dream. It’s a moment of clarity, a calculated leap, and a willingness to build before they feel ready.

In this episode, we’re speaking with Dusty Weis, founder and president of Podcamp Media, a boutique podcast production agency that helps brands tell better stories and build long-term trust with their audiences. Dusty shares how his corporate career in journalism and strategic communications led to a lightbulb moment, some quick back-of-the-napkin math, and the bold ask that helped launch his business — turning his employer into his first client.

Together we’ll discuss:

How Dusty knew it was time to leave corporate and bet on himself
The fears and doubts he had starting a business with a young family at home
How he carved out a niche in a crowded industry by going boutique
What it really takes to build client trust and keep relationships for the long haul
Why uncertainty and impostor syndrome don’t go away and how to keep building in spite of them

Are you ready to take control of your future and start building your legacy? Visit getprovide.com/start/the-path-to-owning-it to pre-qualify for financing in as little as two minutes, with no impact on your credit score.

66. Buying your way in: The rise of entrepreneurship through acquisition, with Matthias Smith

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0000

For some entrepreneurs, the time and energy it takes to start a business from scratch is a welcome challenge.

And for others, it makes more sense to buy their way into business ownership — and it’s more accessible than ever thanks to game-changing, government-backed SBA 7(a) loans.

So in this episode, we're speaking with Matthias Smith, founder and owner of Pioneer Capital Advisory LLC, a consulting firm that helps entrepreneurs secure SBA 7(a) financing to acquire a business.

Since launching in May 2022, his firm has helped 115 business buyers close on more than $250 million of SBA 7(a) financing.

And together, we'll discuss:

What types of businesses do well in an entrepreneurship-through-acquisition (ETA) transaction
How SBA 7(a) financing works
What new business owners should consider when structuring an acquisition
What due diligence mistakes small business buyers often make
How small business buyers can prepare to apply for financing

65. You built it. Now what? Planning when there’s no successor, with Alex Vantarakis

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 11:00:00 -0000

"It's my life." "It's my identity." "It's my baby."

Many entrepreneurs think of their businesses in one or more of these ways.

But when it’s time to build an exit strategy, that kind of thinking can create complicated feelings, making decisions more difficult.

When selling your business is on the horizon, it's important to define your priorities, plan well in advance, and ensure that you get top dollar for your asset.

Enter Alex Vantarakis, founder of The Vant Group, a leading mergers and acquisitions firm. Alex has spent more than 25 years helping business owners with more than 700 business transactions.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

When a business owner should start planning their exit
How to get the best price for your business
How to protect your legacy when selling
Why fewer businesses are transitioning to family members

64. Why an SBA loan might be right for you and your small business, with Brett Howden

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 10:00:00 -0000

If you’re a business owner, there’s one acronym you need to know: SBA. The Small Business Administration is your gateway to funding, growth, and opportunity.

In this episode, we sit down with our very own Brett Howden, Director of Credit, SBA at Provide, a division of Fifth Third Bank. He's a pro at connecting entrepreneurs with the right financial products to level up their businesses.

We’ll cover:

How SBA loans stack up against conventional loans
The SBA programs that could fuel growth
Who qualifies — and what it takes to get approved
How to decide if an SBA loan is the right move for your business

63. What happens next when your best employee leaves unexpectedly, with Paul Edwards

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0000

As a small business owner, you often experience exciting growth and success — and when your top employee decides to move on, it’s an opportunity to adapt and strengthen your team even further.

With the right plans and procedures in place, you can navigate transitions smoothly and come out even more resilient.

Paul Edwards has guided many businesses through these moments with confidence. As the founder and CEO of CEDR HR Solutions, he works with over 3,000 companies that employ more than 46,000 people. His expertise in human resources for small businesses helps entrepreneurs turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

So in this episode, we're going to ask him:

What should small business owners do when a top employee quits?
How can small business owners use exit interviews to improve?
How quickly should employers try to fill a vacancy?
How to talk to your employees when someone quits or is fired?
What are common reasons that employees quit?

62. How to build resilient PR strategies for crisis situations, with Lauren Parker

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The time to prepare for a crisis is before it strikes.

Having a plan to protect both your reputation and your business is important. So why is it that a shocking number of small business owners don’t have a crisis communications plan in their public relations contingencies?

In this episode, we're speaking with Lauren Parker, co-owner and CEO of Slide Nine Agency, to explore effective crisis communications for small businesses.

With more than 15 years of experience in strategic communications and crisis management, Lauren has invaluable insights on how small businesses can prepare for and navigate unexpected reputational challenges.

We'll discuss:

Common misconceptions about public relations for small businesses
Why small business owners should prioritize crisis preparedness
Key elements to a successful PR strategy
What small business owners should do about fake or malicious reviews online
The role social media plays in navigating a reputational crisis

61. How to plan for the unexpected in your small business, with Matt Martin

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0000

For many small business founders, their business is their life's work — and their livelihood.

If the unexpected were to happen like a cyber attack or natural disaster, these companies would likely experience a significant financial setback and difficulty returning to normal operations quickly.

Selecting the right small business insurance for your industry, location, and risk tolerance can set your business up for stability and security — no matter what surprises life throws your way.

That's why in this episode we're talking to Matt Martin, vice president at BSBD Insurance in Texas.

Together, we'll cover:

The key components to include in a small business disaster preparedness plan
How business interruption insurance works
How business owners should assess their insurance needs
Common coverage gaps that small businesses often overlook
A real-world example of a small business that was saved by proper insurance coverage

Are you ready to take control of your future and start building your legacy? Visit ⁠getprovide.com/start/the-path-to-owning-it to pre-qualify⁠ for financing in as little as two minutes, with no impact on your credit score. Provide is a division of Fifth Third Bank, National Association. All opinions expressed by the participant are solely their current opinions and do not reflect the opinions of Provide, its affiliates, or Fifth Third Bank. The participant’s opinions are based on information they consider reliable, but neither Provide, its affiliates nor Fifth Third Bank warrant its completeness or accuracy and should not be relied upon as such. This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute the rendering of legal, accounting, tax, or investment advice, or other professional services by Provide or any of its affiliates. Please consult with appropriate professionals related to your individual circumstances. All lending is subject to review and approval.

60. How to craft customer-centric websites that convert, with Lacey Picazo and Shane Richardson

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 10:00:00 -0000

A well-designed website needs to do more than just look good.

It needs to be intuitive. It needs to be useful. It needs to anticipate your customers' needs, even their state of mind, and guide them along the path from prospect to customer.

The solution to those challenges is different for every small business. There's no one-size-fits-all answer for user experience (UX).

In this episode, we're speaking with two experts from ZoCo Design, a healthcare-focused UX product studio centered on understanding people and what to build for them.

Lacey Picazo is the founder and CEO, and Shane Richardson is a senior designer.

Together, they'll help us understand:

Why is user experience important when designing a website?
What are common UX mistakes that small business websites make?
How should your website's audience contribute to its UX?
How do visuals and graphics contribute to website UX?
Why should small business websites be mobile friendly?

59. Merchant services you need to run your business, with Cris Agenter

Wed, 28 May 2025 10:00:00 -0000

Paying for goods and services in today’s modern world is as easy as swiping your credit card, tapping your phone, or even waving your smart watch.

It looks so simple! But, the merchant services infrastructure and technology that enable electronic payments require substantial setup, careful attention, and ongoing coordination.

Keeping your customers' experience both convenient and secure can be a daunting task for small business owners without the right merchant services provider by their side.

In this episode, we're talking to Regional Sales Manager Cris Agenter from Worldpay, a global payments leader trusted by more than one million merchants and counting.

Together, we'll explore questions like:

What are merchant services and what do they entail?
Why are merchant services important for small businesses?
What is the process for setting up a merchant services account?
What factors should business owners consider when selecting a merchant services provider?
What does it cost to maintain a merchant services account?

58. Experiential Design and its powerful impact on small businesses, with Alicia Orlando

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0000

The old saying is “people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”

So when the time comes to design your office and build your brand, it's important to consider more than just your color scheme and furniture.

You need a deep understanding of your customers and employees, how they will use the space, and what story you're telling them.

And that's where the practice of experiential design comes into play.

In this episode, we're speaking with Alicia Orlando, the director of experiential design at MA Design. With a background spanning advertising, marketing, and environmental graphics, she has worked with clients like Bed Bath & Beyond, the University of Georgia, and White Castle. She focuses on creating designs that resonate on a human level by crafting thoughtful, purposeful environments that inspire and leave lasting emotional connections.

Together, we'll discuss things like:

How is experiential design different from regular office design?
How can small business owners utilize experiential design to create a strong first impression on customers?
Why is the atmosphere of an office space crucial for employee morale and productivity?
How can small business owners enhance their office’s welcoming energy on a budget?
What are some measurable impacts that small business owners can look for after implementing experiential design?

57. Expert insights into Generation Z and how to earn their business, with Dr. Corey Seemiller

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0000

They'd rather put money in savings than see a concert.

They expect brands to share their worldviews.

They will forgive mistakes, but NOT inauthenticity.

These are just a few of the broad generalizations that Dr. Corey Seemiller has found in her studies of Gen Z.

A professor and researcher at Wright State University, her insights have been featured in NPR, The New York Times, and Time Magazine, and she has published numerous works, including the acclaimed books Generation Z Goes to College and Generation Z Leads. In the global Gen Z study she led, Dr. Seemiller and her team engaged over 30,000 participants from 81 countries, making it one of the largest studies on this demographic.

Typically defined as those who were born between 1995-2010, these young people aged 15-30 constitute a growing percentage of consumer spending. And, as Gen Z comes of age, small businesses must tailor their marketing and branding to court this demographic.

In this episode, we'll ask Dr. Seemiller:

What are the core values and beliefs that define Gen Z?
How does technology impact Gen Z’s interactions with brands?
How can small businesses create memorable interactions that foster loyalty?
How should brands approach issues that are important to Gen Z?
How will Gen Z evolve as consumers in the years ahead?

56. Transform your business: how to implement effective change management, with Dr. Scott Leune, DDS

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 11:00:00 -0000

Whether it's the launch of a second location or a new budgeting system, implementing change in any small business can feel daunting.

Institutional inertia is real, and not everyone might be on board with your vision at first.

So, it's absolutely imperative that business owners rely on tried-and-true techniques in planning, communicating, and implementing change.

In this episode, we're talking to Dr. Scott Leune, the founder of scottleune.com. He's a trailblazer in the field of dentistry, with a remarkable career in opening, building, and selling numerous dental practices and businesses.

He has played a pivotal role in launching over 200 startups nationwide and has provided invaluable purchasing, marketing, and consulting support to more than 20,000 dentists. His highly acclaimed seminars serve as a source of advanced practice management insight for dentists across North America.

We'll discuss:

How to plan for major and minor changes within a small business
Why communication is critical in change management
What to do if there is organizational pushback to change
How to track and measure the success of business change
What resources business owners can use to plan for change

55. Cybersecurity: unlocking tips to keep your business safe, with Jim Bennett

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0000

We've all heard the news stories about massive cybersecurity breaches costing big companies millions of dollars. However, the majority of cybersecurity attacks each year actually target small businesses.

If you don’t have a cybersecurity plan in place or know how to properly protect your data, you and your staff are easy marks for hackers to target.

In this episode, we're speaking with Jim Bennett, CTO at Legend Networking, where they specialize in small business IT needs, from turnkey network infrastructure, network security, data backup and recovery, and more.

We'll discuss:

How the digital landscape has evolved to make cybersecurity a top issue for small business owners
Which cybersecurity threats can affect small business owners
What tools are available to help small business owners manage cybersecurity
How small business owners can evaluate their cybersecurity risks
How small business owners can create strong passwords to protect their data

54. How to write a winning business plan, with Sean Simon

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Most entrepreneurs begin their ownership journey with a business plan. The effectiveness and specificity of that plan can vary greatly, frequently reflecting a lack of clarity or insight. Common pitfalls include attempting to cater to a broad audience, harboring excessive optimism, or failing to thoroughly research the target market.

Ultimately, a well-defined business plan is critical to establish the trajectory of your future, including influencing your financing options.

In this episode, we'll help you craft an effective business plan alongside Sean Simon, head of credit, Provide and small business. He has over a decade of experience in small business financing, both for startups and established healthcare practices, including acquisitions, additional locations, and more traditional small business financing.

We'll discuss:

What purposes a business plan should serve
How often you should be checking and adjusting your business plan
What sort of market research you should conduct
What tools and resources can help you draft a business plan
Why it's crucial to identify a unique value proposition, and how to do it

53. How to master problem-solving in your business, with Dr. Benjamin Taylor, DMD

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Practicing dentistry can be a challenging pursuit under any circumstances. Practicing dentistry for the U.S. Army in Iraq, however, is another level of challenging.

Dr. Benjamin Taylor shares how his experience as a combat dentist forged him into the professional servant-leader he is today and prepared him for the daily demands small business owners can face.

Dr. Taylor is a general dentist and has owned Dunwoody Dental Care in Dunwoody, Georgia, for nearly three years.

In this episode, we're going to explore some of the lessons he’s learned throughout his unique experience like:

How the military influences his approach to problem-solving
Strategies and frameworks that shape his approach to running a business
Key lessons other entrepreneurs can incorporate from the world of military service
Where small business owners can look for peer support
How small business owners can learn from their mistakes

52. Navigating the AI revolution: the impact AI tools can have on small businesses, with Joseph Ours

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0000

By now, we've all seen videos about artificial intelligence (AI) writing poems, musing about philosophy, or even hosting podcasts.

This made us wonder, what are the possible implications for small business owners? Are these AI chatbots just a new trend, or are there some capabilities that can be leveraged to make small businesses more productive?

In this episode, we're hearing from Joseph Ours, leader of the AI Strategy Practice at Centric Consulting. He is a technology futurist, passionate about driving innovation and digital transformation to his clients with speed and scale.

He's going to explain what small business owners need to know about AI and answer questions that we’ve received from customers like:

What considerations should small business owners have when deciding whether they should implement AI tools in their businesses?
What are some concrete examples of AI increasing business productivity?
How should business owners weigh the potential cost versus benefit of AI tools?
What resources are available to help train employees to use AI tools?
What are some common challenges small business owners face when integrating AI tools?

51. Introducing the experts who make up the Provide Advisory Network

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Finding a mentor to offer expert advice is key to successfully establishing a successful healthcare practice, but it can be a challenging and daunting step.

That's why we're launching the Provide Advisory Network, a program that brings together healthcare practice owners and offers them a platform to share their experiences, perspectives, and expertise with other aspiring and established owners.

This curated group of expert healthcare providers was selected based on their successes in the healthcare industry and entrepreneurship, as well as their ambition, creativity, and commitment to improving the industry's standard of care. They will serve as strategic content partners, contributing writers, and brand ambassadors for Provide.

In this episode, we're meeting the inaugural class of seven Provide Advisory Network members to ask them the questions that our listeners most want answered, including:

Tips for developing a business plan
Critical steps to open a second location
The biggest life lessons learned since opening
How aspiring practice owners can prepare for upcoming trends
Strategies for marketing a startup

To learn more about the program, visit the Resources section at getprovide.com.

50. What your personality type says about the business owner you’ll be, with Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, DMD, MBA

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0000

We've all met them:

The leader who throws out a thousand ideas a minute
The big personality who can't be trusted to follow up on anything
The boss who wants to be everyone's friend but can't make hard decisions
The business owner who suffers from "paralysis by analysis"

These stereotypes can be a drain on any business's productivity. However, when properly channeled and balanced, they can be high-achieving employers who lead their teams to greatness.

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Gerilyn Alfe, owner at Get Ahead Coaching and Consulting, and a former practicing dentist and dental practice owner of 25 years.

In addition to her private practice, she’s worked as a speaker, hands-on instructor, and mentor to thousands of business owners throughout the country.

She'll explain the four main personality types, provide insight into the strengths and weaknesses of each type, and offer advice on how to leverage these traits in business.

49. How to build a business that spans generations, with Dr. Joseph Legg II, DMD

Wed, 31 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0000

In a profession as deeply personal as small business ownership, it's no wonder that so many small businesses are passed from parent to child.

However, we all know family dynamics can be complex.

If you haven't clearly defined and agreed upon your roles, hierarchy, and succession plan, a business that spans generations may quickly reach its expiration date.

In this episode, we're hearing from the son of a father-son duo of endodontists about what he’s learned from being in business with his father and his tips for successfully establishing a multi-generational business.

Our guest, Dr. Joseph Legg II, bought MicroSurgical Endodontics of NEPA from his father, Dr. Joseph Legg, who has practiced endodontics for over three decades in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

And together, we'll discuss:

What inspires a son to purchase his father's business
What it means to build a legacy in small town USA
How to ensure a smooth transition of ownership
Why it's important to seek external advice from industry experts
The benefits and challenges of operating a multi-generational business

48. Accessibility: What you need to know when designing your practice, with Dustin Walker and Jim Nickle

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Adopted in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability.

The ADA also creates the framework for accessibility standards to which certain public facilities must adhere, including dental offices. The standards are complex, and the manner in which they're enforced is dependent on a number of factors. If you're building or expanding your practice, understanding these standards is crucial.

In this episode, we're talking to a pair of experts from the Nashville area. Dustin Walker works in professional design and planning services at Nashville Dental Inc. across a wide range of specialties in the dental industry. Also joining us is Jim Nickle, principal at Nickle Architects, PLLC, with over 25 years of experience as a practicing architect.

Together, we'll cover:

Approaching your buildout with ADA compliance in mind to ensure seamless integration
Familiarizing yourself with important ADA standards, when they apply, and why
Learning the advantages of building from the ground up versus renovating

47. How to foster an inclusive culture in your business, with Kala Gibson

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are huge topics at today's largest companies.

But, what about at your practice, especially when you're a small business owner?

How should we go about fostering a culture of inclusion when we only have a team of several people?

Answering these questions is key to building a practice in which the best candidates will want to work, and does the most good for the community at large.

In this episode, we're speaking with Kala Gibson, the Executive Vice President and Chief Corporate Responsibility Officer at Fifth Third Bank, about why it's imperative to create an inclusive workplace and the impact that it can have on an organization.

We'll discuss:

How to define inclusivity in the modern context
Why it's important to foster an inclusive workplace at your practice
What lessons we can learn from larger organizations that have built successful DEI programs
What is the business imperative for inclusivity
How the notion of inclusivity is evolving and will continue to evolve in the future

46. Leave your community better than you found it, with Dr. Chriska Mustafa, DDS, and Dr. Kevin M. Kenny, DDS

Wed, 29 May 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Aspiring and established business owners often share a common goal to make a difference in their community beyond their place of business.

Many successful business owners are actively involved in community service, donating their time, skills, and resources to give back.

However, starting a philanthropic effort from scratch takes inspiration. So, in this episode, we're introducing you to two providers who have discovered their own unique approaches to philanthropy.

Dr. Chriska Mustafa, DDS, is co-owner at Root Modern Dentistry in Ashland, Virginia, where they have incorporated a partnership with One Tree Planted to improve the environment.

Dr. Kevin Kenny, DDS, is associate clinical professor at University of California-San Diego in their Department of Family Medicine. What he founded as a simple study club has grown to include a massive philanthropic giving effort and an international service mission.

Together, we'll discuss:

How business owners can identify ways to give back to their respective communities
What challenges entrepreneurs may face when establishing a philanthropic effort
Why philanthropy is good for business
What common mistakes business owners may make when they're launching a philanthropic effort
How to sustain and grow your philanthropy over time

45. Inside mental health in the healthcare industry and how to protect it, with Laura Magnuson M.A., M.S., LAMFT

Wed, 15 May 2024 10:00:00 -0000

In a field where helping others is one’s daily routine, the irony is that so many healthcare providers don't seek help themselves when they need it.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month; and in this episode, we're attempting to remove the stigma around discussing one's mental health, because in the healthcare industry, the need is seemingly greater than in others.

The statistics are shocking: Healthcare providers rank at No. 11 on the Center for Disease Control’s list of the top 30 occupations likely to die by suicide. Another 2019 CDC study shows veterinarians are between two and four times more likely to die by suicide than the general population.

Our guest in this episode is Laura Magnuson, the vice president of clinical engagement and a licensed associate marriage and family therapist at Talkspace. As a Mental Health First Aid instructor, she is passionate about mental health education and how that translates into an effective and healthy workspace.

Together, we'll discuss:

How stress can manifest in your physical health
How to break the stigma surrounding discussions of mental health
What simple strategies can help you cope with stress on a daily basis
How practice owners can facilitate a healthy practice
What to do if you or someone you know is in crisis
What crisis and non-crisis services are available by dialing 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

44. Established veterinarians share advice for aspiring and new hospital owners, with Dr. Dan Markwalder, DVM, and Dr. Peter Weinstein, DVM

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Thirty years ago, if you were starting or acquiring your first animal hospital, it was common to introduce yourself to competing owners to seek their advice.

Now, there are many other informative resources for aspiring hospital owners.

This week, we're embracing traditional ideals, introducing two established providers in animal care to discuss what they’ve learned from their professional journeys and what they would do differently if they were to do it all over again.

Dr. Dan Markwalder, DVM, has been a veterinarian for 33 years and, for 28 years, has owned and operated a number of companion animal hospitals in and around the Chicagoland area. Now he’s partnered with Mission Veterinary Partners as their chief veterinary officer.

Dr. Peter Weinstein, DVM, has worked in the field of veterinary medicine from an early role as a 15-year-old kennel kid to a hospital owner. He has assumed leadership roles, including presidencies at Southern California VMA, California VMA, and Vet Partners. Currently, he is also teaching business and finance at the Veterinary College of Western University of Health Sciences.

Together, we'll discuss:

How animal hospital ownership has become more complex and complicated over the years
What common myths about hospital ownership are holding back potential owners
Why building a successful hospital requires strong leadership, a clear vision, and a supportive team
How to ensure your industry partners position you for long-term success
What resources are available to help aspiring hospital owners achieve their goals

43. Associate buy-ins: a guide for animal hospital owners and veterinary associates, with Ed Guiducci

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0000

For hospital owners, associate buy-ins can be an important tool for retaining top talent and planning for retirement.

For veterinary associates, it can be the next step toward owning your future.

No matter which side of the fence you’re on, a buy-in opportunity could be the right decision for you.

In this episode, we're breaking down buy-ins with one of the industry's leading experts, Ed Guiducci.

Ed is a veterinary business attorney who represents veterinarians in a variety of hospital transactions. He's often called upon to advise veterinarians on the best legal structure for their hospital; merging, buying, and selling veterinary hospitals; and structuring associate, owner, and buy-in agreements.

Together, we'll discuss:

How to determine whether an associate buy-in is the right move for you
Different ways to structure compensation in a buy-in agreement
How to determine a fair valuation for your hospital
Why an associate buy-in is an attractive retirement strategy for animal hospital owners
How to account for selling to a corporate entity in a buy-in agreement

42. The design-build process explained, with Ron Evans and Joe Golden

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

Deciding to build your own healthcare facility is a big decision.

Realistically, it's just the start of a long, nuanced journey.

Working with a partner who specializes in the healthcare industry can potentially save you hundreds of thousands of dollars and months of delays.

In this episode, we're talking to Ron Evans and Joe Golden from Cadre Construction, a Texas-based general contractor providing a one-stop shop for commercial construction, real estate, and architecture expertise.

Their firm specializes in designing and building healthcare facilities that meet providers' needs.

They'll explain:

How design-build firms offer a streamlined approach to construction projects, providing expertise in both design and construction
Why site selection is a crucial step in the design-build process and shouldn’t be attempted on a DIY basis
Why working with healthcare-specific builders and developers can save time and money
Some common challenges that healthcare facility construction projects face
How the timeline and cost of a construction project can vary depending on a number of factors

41. Size matters: getting the size of your healthcare practice right from the start, with Stephen Strecker

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0000

If you go too big, you're locking yourself into an expensive lease that could limit your cash flow.

If you go too small, you could stunt your growth and trap yourself in a space that feels tighter by the day.

Healthcare providers face a crucial imperative to get it "just right" when they hunt for commercial real estate. And that's certainly heightened by current market challenges, the impact of high-demand locations on success, and the balancing act of space versus budget.

In this episode, we're talking to Stephen Strecker, president and founder at Tower Realty Partners, who has helped hundreds of healthcare providers find real estate to open their first practice, purchase a building to relocate, or open a second practice.

Together, we'll discuss:

Why choosing the right location is crucial for the success of a healthcare practice
Factors healthcare providers should consider when searching for a location
How the number of doctors, exam rooms, and treatment rooms creates a formula for the footprint of a practice
How to consider the potential for future expansion when selecting a space
The risks and benefits to both leasehold space and buying a building for a healthcare practice

40. Human resources: the important function your practice may be missing, with Ali Oromchian, JD, LL.M

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0000

If a practice owner's team is their most important resource, then managing that team effectively should be a top priority.

Given the complexity of national employment laws and local requirements, the DIY approach to HR can pose a lot of challenges.

In the event of an error – even an innocent mistake – a lawsuit can easily result.

In this episode, we're talking to Ali Oromchian, co-founder and CEO at HR for Health, founding attorney at Dental and Medical Counsel, PC, and acclaimed thought leader in the healthcare industry.

We'll discuss the primary functions of HR in healthcare like hiring and handling terminations, and managing HR in the business.

Ali will share with us:

Why HR compliance is crucial for healthcare practices
What are some common HR mistakes that practice owners make
How much a typical HR compliance issue can cost practice owners
Answers to common HR questions about compensation and benefits
How adopting an integrated HR partnership can save owners time and money
Why Provide has a new partnership with HR for Health

39. What it means to be a woman in today’s veterinary industry, with Sarah Baker, DVM

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0000

With women now constituting more than 80% of veterinary industry professionals, the industry is radically different from last generation's status quo.

While there are more opportunities for women than ever before, female representation among hospital owners and executives still lags behind the curve.

In this episode, we're talking to Dr. Sarah Baker, DVM and owner of Lane Veterinary in the Chicagoland area, to learn about her journey to hospital ownership.

She recently opened her animal hospital and proudly obtained the Fear Free Certification and American Animal Hospital Association accreditation within months of opening her doors. She currently holds a seat on the board of directors at the Hinsdale Humane Society, frequently fosters pets, and feels passionately about supporting animal rescues.

She'll offer advice for aspiring animal hospital owners and explain:

How she arrived at the decision to pursue a career in veterinary science and open a hospital
How to build a supportive team and delegate tasks to set your hospital up for success
Why work-life balance is a two-way street that can help employees AND hospital owners thrive
Why qualities like empathy position women as strong business owners and leaders
Why there is a need for more female representation in leadership positions in the veterinary industry

38. Taking the unknown out of hiring a healthcare attorney, with Matt LaMaster

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Let's be honest. It’s not every day that you have to hire an attorney.

It can be an intimidating process filled with new jargon, details, and processes to which you may have never been exposed, and it's also super important to get it right.

In this episode, we're speaking with Matt LaMaster, a Michigan-based healthcare attorney, to discuss the importance of hiring an industry-specific attorney and the specific advantages for dentists and veterinarians.

Prior to forming LaMaster Law, Matt spent a major part of his career providing services as corporate counsel for a multi-location dental practice. He negotiated, structured, and implemented multiple acquisitions and mergers, and negotiated employment contracts for associate dentists during his career as corporate counsel.

We'll discuss:

Why hiring an industry-specific attorney is crucial for dentists and veterinarians
How healthcare attorneys can assist with important processes like acquisitions, lease negotiations, real estate transactions, and associate agreements
Why it's important to start looking for an attorney early on
How attorney fees are typically structured and what dentists and veterinarians can expect to pay for certain jobs
How different states have different rules regarding attorney fees

37. Harnessing the power of data to take your practice to new heights, with Shayne Harris and Nate Woudstra

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 11:00:00 -0000

Marketing is one of those things that's easy to take for granted; that is, until you experience great marketing, and then it's hard to live without it.

But, in 2024, marketing is more than just mailers, social media, or ad buys. It can be all those things and more or — none of them.

Most importantly, though, savvy marketing is about gleaning pivotal insights from real-time data about your customers and using those insights to drive your marketing strategy.

In this episode, we're talking with Shayne Harris and Nate Woudstra from EOS Healthcare Marketing, a premier nationally-renowned healthcare marketing agency.

Shayne is the founder and CEO and opened the full-service marketing firm in 2001. Nate joined the team in 2016.

Together, they'll tell us:

What sort of data healthcare providers need to consider when they're thinking about launching, acquiring, or expanding a practice
Why census data isn't detailed enough to provide critical insights
How leveraging data can impact a practice's life cycle
How to use real-time data to drive a practice marketing strategy
What some of the must-haves are for marketing a practice on a smaller budget

36. Managing your dental supply inventory like a pro, with Jordyn Levitas

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Nothing moves through a dental office faster than supplies.

Managing inventory is a huge job with major impacts on the bottom line.

If something runs out — work in the practice could grind to a halt.

Far too often; however, the inventory management system is held together by one person, a ton of Post-It notes, and some phone numbers in a smartphone. Albeit to say it's less than ideal and could leave you exposed.

In this episode, we're talking to Jordyn Levitas from Torch Dental, an all-in-one supply ordering platform where dental offices can discover, research, order supplies, and pay for everything all in one place.

When Jordyn started with Torch Dental five years ago, they were fewer than 10 people in a WeWork space in New York City. Today, they have more than 100 employees across the country helping dentists take control of their practices, operations and supply ordering so they can focus on what matters most: their patients.

We'll discuss:

The different ways many practices manage their supply inventory
How to benchmark and optimize your inventory spending
How to spot the best supply discounts from manufacturers
How practice owners should delegate supply management
Whether it's worth it to try and negotiate prices with manufacturers

Click here to claim your $300 credit with Torch Dental!

35. Ways to build an elite team and launch a successful startup, with Maritza Duran

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 11:00:00 -0000

"Only fools rush in."

It's not just a wise dictum about falling in love.

It's also great advice for startup dental practice owners about hiring the right people.

In today's competitive employment market, it's more important than ever to align your values with employees, offer them competitive compensation packages, and create room for them to grow.

How do you make time and build a plan for this amid all the other work of opening a new practice? That's where today's guest comes in.

Maritza Duran is the founder and CEO of MDent Consulting Services. With over 20 years of management experience, Maritza started her career as a dental assistant and worked her way up to regional manager of the group. Since founding MDent, Maritza and her team have focused on helping dentists successfully start or acquire practices, from securing financing to filling schedules and everything in between. She is also a certified body language trainer, leadership coach and adjunct faculty professor at Temple University.

In this episode, we'll discuss:

How your vision and core values should drive your recruitment efforts
How to attract and retain top talent
Why self-awareness is an important part of building a team
How to ensure a practice runs smoothly on opening day and beyond
What is the best way to onboard employees at a startup

34. Signs of embezzlement in your dental practice and how to avoid it, with David Harris

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0000

David Harris has one of the most interesting jobs in dentistry.

When office managers, staff members, or business partners steal from dental practices, it's his job to uncover the embezzlement, stop the crime, and document the evidence needed to fire and convict the perpetrators.

After doing that job for more than 30 years, he's seen and done it all.

Today, David is the Chief Executive Officer of Prosperident, the world’s largest firm investigating financial crimes committed against dentists.

As a licensed private investigator, a Forensic Certified Public Accountant, and a Certified Fraud Examiner, he is the author of two books on embezzlement, and a frequent presenter at regional, national, and international dental conferences.

We'll ask him:

What are some instances of dental embezzlement that he has personally uncovered?
Why are dental practices such easy targets for thieves?
What are some red flags that might indicate theft is taking place in your practice?
How should a dentist respond if they think embezzlement is happening in their practice?
What are some common-sense best practices to prevent theft?

33. Writing offers that appeal to sellers in a competitive market, with Nick Elliston

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Be honest. Are you sick of hearing about the "seller's market"?

In current market conditions, it doesn't seem likely that will change any time soon.

If you're hoping to achieve financial independence by purchasing a healthcare practice, it's absolutely critical to put forward an offer that appeals to sellers and gets you to "accepted".

In this episode, we're talking with Nick Elliston, a managing partner with Total Practice Solutions Group, which specializes in veterinary hospital sales and appraisals. His areas of expertise include appraisals, commercial real estate, financing, contract negotiation, and consulting. During his 15-year tenure, Nick has successfully closed $500M+ in veterinary acquisitions, including the sale of his own hospital.

We'll ask him:

What makes a buyer "bankable" in today's economy?
Who is a buyer likely to be competing against when they make an offer?
What's the process for making an offer and closing the sale?
What are some creative ways to structure a deal to appeal to the seller?
How common are multiple offer scenarios today?

32. The three financial stages in a dentists’ life and how to “own” them, with Tim McNeely

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0000

From fresh-out-of-dental-school to mid-career-earner to aspiring-retiree, each phase of a dentists' career is unique.

Each phase requires a different approach to wealth management (if a dentist plans to thrive in their professional and personal lives).

Picking a winning financial strategy doesn't start with finding the right balance between your 401k and your Roth — according to today's guest.

Instead, it starts with defining your relationship to money: what are your needs, your priorities, and your goals?

Tim McNeely is a leading advisor to dental entrepreneurs, a Certified Financial Planner and a Certified Investment Management Analyst. He has a passion for helping dentists succeed in all stages of their careers, and is also the host of The Dental Wealth Nation podcast, a best selling author and a keynote speaker.

We'll ask him:

How should young dentists manage their debt and begin the process of building wealth?
What are some common financial mistakes that dentists make?
What are some benchmarks of which mid-career dentists should be mindful?
How financial strategies need to shift as retirement nears?
What can dentists learn from the wealth management strategies of the "super-rich?"

31. Decoding dental contracts: What to look for before you say “yes” to an associateship, with Hillary Harms Becchetti, JD

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0000

As a new dental associate, you can be forgiven if employment contracts make your head spin.

They can be long, dense, and packed with terms that non-lawyers have never heard of.

Before you breeze through your employment contract like it's the Instagram terms-of-service, remember—this document could shape the trajectory of the rest of your career!

In this episode, we're bringing in a ringer to help dental associates decode employment contracts and lay out some basic expectations for their first associateship.

Hillary Harms Becchetti is the founder of Pine Lake Dental Law & Transitions in Minnesota. Pine Lake is a full service transition company and law firm performing around 60 dental transitions per year, and they also provide dentists with associate contract review and employment law consulting.

We'll discuss:

Some common employment contract terms with which you should be familiar
How to negotiate a contract effectively
Important considerations for working full-time versus working part-time
Common pay structure offerings, paid time off, and benefits
Often overlooked details, like termination policy and non-competition agreements

30. Ready to expand? How to grow your veterinary hospital into multiple locations, with Mike Robinson, VMD

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Building relationships with patients can be one of the most rewarding parts of owning a healthcare practice.

(Or, for veterinarians, also building relationships with the patients' owners...)

What happens when you decide you want to expand your practice into multiple locations? Will you still have the time to dedicate to connecting with patients? How will you foster the kind of culture you want in your new locations?

Dr. Mike Robinson, VMD has learned the answers to these questions and more on his road to becoming the owner of multiple animal hospitals in North Carolina.

He began working as an associate at Cabarrus animal hospital in North Carolina in 2011, and a few short years later, he found himself in a position to purchase the hospital. Then in 2019, he opened a startup clinic in Harrisburg and in 2022 bought a third clinic in the same area. He’s currently in the process of completing a ground-up construction project which will be the future home of both Harrisburg hospitals.

In this episode, we'll ask him:

How to know when it's time to open a second location?
What challenges can doctors expect when deciding to expand?
How is managing multiple hospitals different from managing just one?
How do you maintain a company culture across multiple locations?
How to structure your workforce to thrive in different locations?

29. Define your practice roadmap and reach the destination you envision, with Dr. Richard Low

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Growing a healthcare practice is a journey.

If you want to be successful, it helps to start with a destination in mind.

Thankfully, other providers have been down these roads and have learned from the decisions that ultimately led them to where they wanted to be.

In this episode, we're going to share their journeys so you don't have to learn those same lessons the hard way.

Dr. Richard Low is CEO at Shared Practices, a consulting firm that helps dentists nationwide buy and scale their practices through coaching, from single-doctor locations to multi-doctor large practices.

Dr. Low started Shared Practices as a podcast to help young dentists buy and run their own successful practices, and it quickly became the No. 1-rated dental podcast. And in 2021, Shared Practices Group was founded as the fastest-growing implant group in the nation, with 23 locations and another 15 planned by the end of 2023.

We'll discuss:

The six practice types, or "avatars," that he identifies for practice owners to emulate or avoid, depending on their goals
How to determine which practice type is best for you
How to build toward the right kind of growth for your unique practice
Certain business pitfalls that practice owners should avoid
How to know when your practice is ready to take the leap from one practice type to the next

28. Practice, profits, and purpose: The 3 Ps of practice ownership, with Stephen Trutter

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 10:15:00 -0000

When starting a healthcare practice, it's easy to get caught up in the details – the who, what, where, and when of opening your practice, so to speak..

But have you stopped to think about the "why"?

According to this week's guest, Stephen Trutter, too often the "why" of practice ownership is an afterthought – if it's considered at all.

As CEO at Ideal Practices, a dental consulting firm that’s opened more than 3,000 practices, Stephen knows a thing or two about the topic.

Throughout his 17 years in dentistry, Stephen has personally guided more than 850 startup practices. He preaches what he calls "the three Ps of practice ownership: practice, profits and purpose."

In this episode, we'll discuss:

Why it's critical to define a "why" for your practice and to commit to supporting a cause in the community
How to leverage community involvement to strengthen the business end of your practice
Who is a good candidate for starting their own healthcare practice
How to find the right location for your startup
Some of the common traits of the most successful startups he’s coached

27. Get top dollar for your practice when it's time to sell, with Thad Miller

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0000

For many practice owners, their business is their life's work – a true personal and professional investment.

So when the time comes to sell, it's crucial for owners to maximize the return on their investments – we’re talking decades of procedures, critical business decisions, and long days.

What many sellers don't realize is that the decisions they make in their final months as owners can have an enormous impact on the value they realize from the sale.

In this episode, we're talking to Thad Miller, an industry leader with more than 25 years of business experience and the creator of ddsmatch.com, which helps more than 8,000 dentists across the country find a seller. The site has more than 1,200 sellers to choose from, with almost $250 million in assets under transition management.

Thad also manages dvmmatch.com, which offers the same services to veterinarians.

Tapping into his deep well of knowledge, we'll discuss:

When is the right time for a seller to start transition planning?
What can a provider do to increase the value of their practice prior to sale?
Other factors that can affect the value of a practice
What the current market’s like for dental practices and veterinary hospitals
Unique options for including commercial real estate in the sale of a practice

26. A buyer’s and seller’s guide to navigating practice transition day, with Dr. Lee Maddox

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Buying or selling a healthcare practice is usually one of the biggest financial decisions of a doctor’s life.

It can be accompanied by stress, uncertainty, and even conflict.

Since it's something most people do only once (maybe twice), the laws and best practices that govern practice transition can be unfamiliar or confusing.

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Lee Maddox, who has more than 20 years of experience as a healthcare attorney.

Dr. Maddox practiced endodontics and maintained two offices in Orange County, California, for five years. During this time, his practice increased production by an incredible 700%.

In his post-provider life, he's been providing legal services to dentists since 2001, helping thousands of doctors with their transition needs and general ledger services. He's been in the dental transition business as a practice broker from 2010-2018 and practices law full-time to support dentists, veterinarians, and other medical professionals.

Together, we'll discuss:

The importance of fostering appropriate communication between buyer and seller
How to pair the right buyer with the right seller
The special nuances of a practice transition between owner and associate
What to expect on transition day
How to prepare practice staff for an ownership transition

25. Is a remote workforce the answer to your staffing woes? With Christine Sison

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Finding, recruiting, and retaining talented staff is one of the hottest topics in the healthcare industry right now (and seemingly everywhere else for that matter).

With labor posing one of the biggest challenges most practice owners face today, we're exploring an unconventional new solution that’s gaining popularity in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic: remote staffing for dental practices.

Our guest, Christine Sison, is CEO at Swiss Monkey, an operations and staffing organization that provides virtual front desk and recruitment services for dental practices. Prior to that, she spent more than 10 years building and managing a dental practice, and she is the former executive director of a public-private healthcare collaborative, where she led the development of telemedicine efforts.

Christine tells us:

How practice owners can use remote staffing services to fill key needs, make on-site staff happier and more productive, and improve margins
Which positions are ideally suited for remote staffing and which are best left on-site
Why remote staffing has become so popular among both practice owners and employees
What practice owners can expect to pay for remote staff
What key lessons she has learned in her career that help her serve her clients' needs

24. What to know before you own a healthcare practice, with Michael Dinsio

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

The rise of corporate dentistry and the growth of Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) is top of mind for many aspiring practice owners.

The prospect of competing with these big players can be enough to keep some providers from taking that critical leap into ownership.

It's not that DSOs provide better care and service to their patients – it's that many have more advanced systems and infrastructure in place.

Michael Dinsio, a long-time dental industry consultant, says independent startups can compete against these bigger organizations and win as long as they are making informed decisions.

Michael is the founder of Next Level Consultants and has spent the last two decades learning the business of dentistry through the eyes of a banker and consultant. In that time, he’s guided more than 400 dental office startups and facilitated more than 300 practice transitions.

In this episode, we'll discuss:

How startup dental practices can hone their competitive advantage over DSOs
Why practice ownership is the right step for many young doctors
The pros and cons of starting versus acquiring a practice
The advantages of hiring a practice consultant
What KPIs a practice owner should consider as they weigh whether a consultant is right for them

23. How to negotiate your commercial real estate lease like a pro, with Joseph Rossi

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0000

When it comes to legally binding documents, there are no do-overs. What you sign is what you get – sometimes for the next 10, 15, or even 20 years!

When it comes to negotiating a commercial real estate lease for your new or expanding practice, you’ll want to make sure your i's are dotted and your t's are crossed long before you start negotiating with a landlord.

And, luckily, we know an expert.

Joe Rossi is the founder and managing partner of Joseph Rossi and Associates (JRA). With strong personal and business ties to the Chicago area, Joe has an innate understanding of the value of real estate and the importance of location.

Since its inception in 2011, JRA has earned a reputation as a top firm representing healthcare professionals. JRA offers services that address an increasingly diverse set of challenges faced by practice owners, and has completed over 350 real estate transactions in the past decade.

In this episode, we'll discuss:

Factors you should consider when selecting a location for your practice
How to determine what monthly rent you can afford
Important lease terms you should know, like tenant improvement funds and lien waivers
The ins and outs of construction in a leased space
Common leasing pitfalls practice owners should avoid

22: How to avoid paying too much for your first healthcare practice, with Tom Whalen

Wed, 24 May 2023 10:00:00 -0000

In 10 years, the field of dentistry is going to look very different than it does today. Baby boomers who have owned their practices for decades are starting to consider retirement. And younger dentists who have practiced as associates will soon have an opportunity to become practice owners themselves.

As those aspiring practice owners assess the value of a practice they want to buy, it’s essential they get good advice and expert counsel.

In this episode, we're talking to Tom Whalen, CPA at Edge Advisors, who has helped dozens of young doctors buy their first practice and empowered dozens more established doctors to run their practices more efficiently.

We'll discuss:

How young buyers can take advantage of the generational shift in practice ownership
Why student loan debt isn't the limiting factor many aspiring practice owners think it is
Where to look for a good deal on a practice acquisition
What steps a new practice owner should take after the acquisition
What metrics new practice owners should focus on to ensure the financial health of their business

21. How to brand and promote your healthcare practice to reflect your vision, with Ali Patton

Wed, 10 May 2023 10:00:00 -0000

When you're launching a new healthcare practice, it's easy to get lost in the work – building a space, hiring employees, and starting to treat patients.

But there's an important step that many aspiring practice owners might forget in their rush to get to work: defining a vision, honing a mission statement, and unifying it all under a strong brand.

Without these guiding principles, your practice may struggle to find a direction, attract patients, and ultimately succeed.

Today, we're talking to Ali Patton, client development specialist at Affordable Image Marketing Agency. As a previous private practice consultant for 10 years, she has traveled both domestically and internationally, assisting doctors throughout every phase of achieving their practice ownership goals. Ali has personally trained over 1,000 dental practices since 2012 and has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to marketing a product, creating a brand, having a vision, and launching a business.

In this episode, she’ll walk us through all the steps in her practice branding process, answering important questions like:

What should I consider when creating a vision for my practice?
How do I determine a mission statement?
How can I make my brand "sticky" in the minds of my target audience?
What important things should I include on my practice’s website?
How do I create social media content based on my practice’s brand?

20. From vision to reality: what it takes to start your own (successful) orthodontic practice, with Jill Allen

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Let's get one thing straight: Orthodontics is a highly-specialized field, with demands and nuances that are unlike any other medical practice.

If you're thinking about starting your own orthodontic practice, it's a good idea to seek the advice of a trusted expert. And, luckily, we know just the person.

Jill Allen is the owner of Jill Allen & Associates orthodontic consultants, a national firm with a passion for helping doctors bring their practice dreams to fruition. Jill and her team specialize in startup practices, recently-opened practices, and practices with owners who are nearing retirement.

With her expertise, Jill empowers practice owners with the tools they need to increase growth and streamline their processes. In this episode we discuss:

What factors orthodontists should consider when deciding whether or not to start a practice
The importance of having a vision for a startup practice
Important demographic and geographic considerations
Must-have equipment for a startup practice
Best practices for staffing, hiring, and training at a new practice

19. How establishing relationships with your industry partners can help grow your animal hospital, with Jon Butz

Wed, 05 Apr 2023 10:00:00 -0000

Whether it's modernizing your office to increase productivity, training employees on new procedures and practices, or managing support and service for the reliable equipment you already have, you can’t build or expand an animal hospital without overcoming equipment challenges. However, if you have the support of a trusted industry partner in the equipment space, you’ll be better positioned to overcome these challenges and thrive in the long term.

In this episode, we’re talking to Jon Butz, director of marketing for Patterson Veterinary Supply’s equipment and supplementary business. Jon has been in the veterinary support business his whole career and knows what it takes to start, outfit, and grow an animal hospital.

We will discuss:

How veterinary equipment needs have evolved over the last 30 years
How a supplier's service technicians can become a critical part of your practice team
Why modernizing equipment is critical to practice growth
Why Patterson Veterinary Supply sponsors educational seminars for its customers

18: Proven ways to increase your hygiene department’s profitability, with Ayla Narayan

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0000

If you had a magic wand and could change one thing about your dental practice –what would it be?

That's the question that Ayla Narayan asks everyone that she meets at the Greater New York Dental Meeting in Manhattan.

As an executive coach with Fortune Management, Ayla has cultivated a passion for public health and education over her 20 years in the dental field. Her goal is to continue to inspire, develop, and educate professionals who share her passion for making a positive impact.

In her conversations with practice owners, from small, independent operations to large dental service organizations, she regularly gets asked what can be done to improve the profitability and impact of the hygiene department.

In this episode, we're picking Ayla's brain to get to the bottom of these important questions:

What's the best way to measure a hygienist's performance?
Why is it important to have a consistent patient experience and process?
How do you get team buy-in when presenting new approaches to patient care?
What's the best way to implement a script for hygienists to follow during appointments?
What’s the one thing hygienists can implement today that will improve their profitability?

17. What it takes to create and maintain a financially healthy veterinary hospital, with Jason Castner

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Veterinarians know that their expertise is specialized to the patients they serve, resulting in better care for the companion animals they see and treat.

So, when it comes to keeping their books, why should the service be any less specialized?

Finding a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) who specializes in the veterinary industry can make all the difference in terms of building profitability, taking care of employees, and even someday selling your practice.

In this episode, we're talking to Jason Castner, CPA, CVA, the managing shareholder at Lacher McDonald & Co. Jason’s role at the firm is to provide business consulting, tax, and accounting services to companion animal practices across the country.

We'll discuss:

What specialized expertise a veterinary-specific CPA can offer your practice
Some mistakes Jason has observed that hurt practice profitability
Mission-critical KPIs that established hospital owners should be monitoring
How veterinarians should account for high inflation
How to know when to hire another doctor for your practice

16. How new dentists can achieve personal and professional balance, with Amrita Patel, DDS

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Starting out in the field of dentistry is the beginning of a long journey, full of exciting opportunities — and high-stakes challenges.

And for dental students or recent graduates, good advice can be hard to come by.

But it might just help you strike a healthy work-life balance and avoid pitfalls that are common to the industry.

In this episode, taped live at the Greater New York Dental Meeting in Manhattan, we talk to Dr. Amrita R. Patel, the owner of multiple specialty group practices in New York City.

Dr. Patel serves as the new dentist member of the American Dental Association Council(ADA) on Dental Benefit Plans and the New York State Dental Association’s Council on Ethics. She is an ADA Success Speaker, American Association for Women Dentists and New York University College of Dentistry Alumni Association board member, and a 2021 10 under 10 winner, which recognizes new dentists who demonstrate excellence early in their careers.

We'll ask her about:

Some of the challenges young dentists can expect to face
Advice for navigating the post-graduate career landscape
Striking a healthy work-life balance
Steps young dentists can take today to pave the road to practice ownership
Tips for successfully managing a new practice

15. The Employee Retention Credit: what it means for you and your healthcare practice, with Justin Elanjian

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0000

Your dental practice has weathered the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, but you may be leaving money on the table if you haven't fully explored the options presented by the government's Employee Retention Credit (ERC) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

These programs were launched to help employers like you, whose businesses suffered as a result of the pandemic's economic disruptions. And they're only available for a limited time, with phase-out dates beginning July 31, 2023.

In this episode, we're talking with Aprio’s Justin Elanjian, PPP and ERC expert. Justin is a CPA and the Partner-in-Charge of Aprio’s PPP & ERC Services, and helps both lenders and borrowers navigate the complexities of the PPP. He also helps his clients realize benefits from other stimulus package programs, such as the ERC, and is committed to strengthening his clients’ balance sheets and helping them achieve what’s next.

We'll discuss:

What the ERC is, and what conditions a practice owner needs to meet in order to qualify
How COVID-era disruptions to supply chains impact eligibility
Special considerations for practices that opened or were acquired after the onset of COVID
What practice owners need to know about PPP loan forgiveness
How much time a provider should set aside to prepare all of the information needed to file their claim

14. What you need to know about the legal side of dental practice ownership, with Rob Montgomery

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 11:00:00 -0000

All lawyers are NOT created equal.

When it comes to the intricacies of dental practice ownership, you deserve legal advice that you can trust from someone who understands your industry.

But how common are attorneys who specialize in the dental industry, and where can you find them?

In this episode, we're talking to yourdentallawyer.com founder and practicing attorney Robert H. Montgomery III. Rob has been serving the individual legal and business needs of healthcare clients for over 20 years, and has worked on over 1,000 dental deals throughout his career, ranging from practice startups to equity buy-ins and complex practice acquisitions. He's also the co-founder and co-host of The Dental Amigos podcast.

We'll discuss:

Some common pitfalls that dental practice owners can avoid with industry-specific legal advice
The pros and cons of acquiring a practice versus starting one of your own
What business entity structures you should consider for your practice
The legal ramifications of finding commercial real estate for your practice

13. How a dental-specific CPA can take your practice to the next level, with David Goodman, CPA, MST

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 11:00:00 -0000

As a dental practice owner, your bread and butter is patient care. It's what you went to school for, it's what you trained for, it's what you focus on every day.

Where you probably don't have much expertise is accounting, business money management, tax strategy, and creating financial efficiencies.

And if you haven't partnered with a certified public accountant, or CPA, who has knowledge and insights specific to the dental industry, you might be leaving money on the table.

David Goodman is a partner with PKF O'Connor Davies and, as a dental CPA and member of the Academy of Dental CPAs, he has a unique data-driven approach to helping practice owners. David regularly shares his perspective on taxes, dental practice management, and finances as a frequent speaker, podcast guest, and contributor to Dental Economics.

And in this episode, we'll discuss:

Financial blind spots that many practice owners might not see
Software and bookkeeping techniques to maximize productivity
Key performance indicators and benchmarks to monitor the financial health of your practice
How to clarify complicated tax strategies like depreciation
Other ways to work smarter—not harder—as a practice owner

12: How dental practices recovered from COVID-19, and the bright future ahead, with Charles Loretto

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 11:00:00 -0000

It's hard to imagine that, a little more than two years ago, many dentists were only allowed to see patients in emergency cases.

But in the flood of patients following loosened Covid-19 restrictions, and the staffing shortages many dental practices now face, what can we learn from the difficulties of recent years?

In this episode, we're joined by Charles Loretto, a partner at Cain Watters & Associates (CWA), which has provided dental professionals with financial education and comprehensive financial services since 1984. Charles oversees the practice transition department for CWA and founded its affiliate company, National Dental Placements (NDP), which assists doctors in the buying, transitioning, and valuation of a practice.

We'll discuss:

How practice owners navigated the difficulties of Covid-19 restrictions
What changes and challenges the industry has faced since then
Things to consider if you are looking to start a new practice in the current market
Long-term dental industry trends we expect to see play out in the years ahead

11. The great debate: To start or acquire a practice? With Rich Andrus, Mark Haslip, and David Haynes

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0000

The age-old question for aspiring dental practice owners is whether it makes more sense to buy an existing practice, or start your own.

In this episode, we're setting the table for this debate by bringing together experts in practice acquisition and startups. Rich Andrus, Mark Haslip, and David Haynes join us from the Menlo Group, the largest commercial real estate broker and space finder in Arizona.

Our guests have vast experience in all aspects starting and acquiring a practice. From lending and equipping a practice to finding an office and negotiating your offer, our guests know what it takes to make the practice of your dreams a reality.

We'll discuss:

Why there's no one-size-fits-all answer to the question
The pros and cons of acquiring an existing practice and starting a new one
How to evaluate which path is best for you
Today's market factors that should influence your decision if you're making a move soon

10. Does your dental equipment need an upgrade? Why now's the time to purchase, with Ileana Cruz

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 11:00:00 -0000

The thought of investing in new dental technology can be overwhelming. In general, change can be hard – add the significant capital investment new technology brings, and it’s easy to understand why some dentists put off upgrading their equipment.

But by waiting too long to upgrade your dental equipment, you might be short-changing yourself on new technologies that can increase the efficiency of your dental practice, improve your operation margins, and make your practice more attractive to potential patients.

In this episode, we’re speaking with Ileana Cruz, territory manager for Patterson Dental. Currently covering the South Florida region, Ileana has been in the dental equipment business for over 24 years and oversees many different areas, including technology, software, supplies, and services.

Illeana tells us about:

What new efficiencies and benefits you can enjoy after upgrading your dental equipment
Equipment trends that are impacting the industry throughout North America
Cutting-edge technologies that are changing the dental industry
How to capitalize on the tax benefits of buying new dental equipment, and what deadlines you should be aware of

9. Should I own the commercial real estate for my healthcare practice? With Mike Jorgenson

Wed, 19 Oct 2022 10:00:00 -0000

The age-old question when it comes to commercial real estate? To buy or not to buy.

Is it better to purchase the building that will house your healthcare practice or lease the space?

The not-so-simple answer: It depends.

In this episode, we're talking to Mike Jorgenson, regional director for CARR Healthcare Realty’s Southeast region. Mike is an authority in the healthcare real estate advisor space, having spoken at several industry events, including the Hinman Dental Meeting, Columbia University School of Dentistry, and the Southern Vet Conference.

He'll tell us:

Key advantages and disadvantages of owning versus leasing a commercial space you might not have considered, and how the current market conditions may impact your decision
What steps a healthcare provider should take to buy commercial real estate
Hidden costs to consider before moving ahead with a commercial real estate purchase
Common mistakes lessees make

8. How to maximize insurance reimbursement rates and increase revenue for your dental practice, with Ben Tuinei

Wed, 05 Oct 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Did you know that you can negotiate insurance fee schedules?

Many dental practice owners don't even know that insurance reimbursement rates can be negotiated, and they may be missing out on the opportunity to improve their operating margins just by picking up the phone.

In this episode, we're talking to Ben Tuinei, president of Veritas Dental Resources. Ben is an expert in professional dental insurance fee negotiations, and his company helps dentists achieve fair and sustainable reimbursement rates and employ proper billing and coding practices in order to maximize their practice revenue.

He'll share some game-changing business hacks, including:

How to open negotiations over insurance reimbursement rates without getting sidelined
What to ask for, and what leverage you can use in negotiations
Other tips for growing your revenue in order to keep up with inflation
How to maximize efficiency in your coding, billing, and claims processes

7. Entrepreneurship and how to turn a dream into a business, with Andrew Bennett

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Becoming a successful entrepreneur is more than just a mindset—it's a shift in behaviors.

Whether you're an aspiring dental or veterinary practice owner wondering where to start, or an established owner looking to expand your business, growth requires a shift in routines, a can-do attitude, and powerful motivation.

In this episode, we're talking to Andrew Bennett, CEO at Provide, about how to channel an entrepreneurial mindset as an aspiring or established practice owner. Andrew has been with Provide since 2015, and in the years since, the company has experienced significant growth and changes. In this episode, Andrew shares many insights from his own experience like:

Different approaches for building company culture
Hiring the right people for your business, and keeping them motivated
Channeling a startup mentality to set the stage for business growth
Key mistakes to avoid during periods of rapid expansion

6. Marketing efforts to convert and increase your patient volume, with Mike Shoun

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 10:00:00 -0000

You may have the best practice in town, but without a proper marketing strategy, your business may not grow to the levels you envisioned. After all, your practice is a business, and like any business, you have to get word of your services out to your existing and prospective patients. That's why a smart marketing strategy must be a part of your path to ownership.

Strategic communications might not be every doctor's strong suit, so that's why Mike Shoun is here to give a crash course on how to successfully market your healthcare practice. As President and CEO of Affordable Image Marketing Agency, Mike knows how to answer the most pressing questions about how to start building a strategy to convert and increase your patient volume.

On this episode, Mike tells us:

Why you should (and must) market your practice
Which tactics are most effective, from tried-and-true direct mail, to new and innovative digital efforts
How to cater to specific demographics based on the type of practice you have or are building
How marketing to prospective patients differs from marketing to existing patients (and why both are important)
What practice owners should expect to pay for marketing and what they should plan to budget for ongoing campaigns

5. What's causing the veterinarian shortage in the U.S. – and how to navigate it, with David Soto

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0000

There's been a significant rise in pet ownership since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and veterinarians are in higher demand than ever – which is why it might be the perfect time to buy or start your own veterinary hospital. But what should veterinarians know before buying or starting a practice in today’s market?

This week, David Soto, a regional director of practice finance at Provide, is on the show to fill in the blanks for us. With more than 10 years of experience in the industry providing veterinary-specific financing, David has the expertise to prepare doctors for their ownership journey.

On this episode, David will tell us about:

Why the pandemic has led to an increase in demand for veterinary practices, and how that trend affects veterinarians today
How to decide whether to buy an existing practice or start your own
The experts a provider should have in their corner when starting their ownership journey
The state of the industry with today's shortage of veterinarians and how the future is trending

4. How a dental buyer advocate can help you buy the right practice, with Brian Hanks

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 10:00:00 -0000

Buying their own dental practice will likely be the largest purchase of any practitioner's life, and is the culmination of years of schooling and hard work. That's why you can't afford to risk buying a practice that won't work for you. Enter: dental buyer advocates.

Dental buyer advocates—like our guest Brian Hanks, owner of DentalBuyerAdvocates.com—are there to offer their expertise and advise you as you consider buying an existing practice. With their help, you won't be completely at the mercy of the seller.

On this episode, Brian will go over:

Exactly what a dental buyer advocate can offer you
When in the buying process you should consult with a dental buyer advocate
What to look for and what questions to ask when looking to hire a dental buyer advocate
Why dental buyer advocates are especially important in today's market

3. How digital technology can elevate your dental practice, with Jess Webb

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0000

A modern dental practice is filled with gadgets, tools and technologies that would have seemed like science fiction to practitioners a generation ago.

But how do you decide what technologies to invest in, and how to integrate them into your practice?

In this episode, you'll hear from Provide marketing manager Jess Webb, who knows all about how dental providers can smoothly integrate technology into their daily practice. Whether it's as simple as digital appointment booking or as high-tech as a "smart mirror," there are plenty of ways technology can vastly improve both the patient and provider experience.

Jess will go over:

How automation can make your practice more efficient for you and more convenient for your patients
What new tech you might need, and when you should make the investment
Properly introducing employees to using new tech
How the pandemic has increased the use of technology in dental practices

2. Should you remodel your healthcare practice? With Casey Lear and Jason Schneller

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 10:15:00 -0000

Making the "ugly list" is the last distinction any dental or veterinary practice wants to earn.

But for practice owners who don't prioritize an occasional facility remodel, or don't understand the construction and financing options that are available to them, things can start to go downhill fast as a facility ages and its technology falls out-of-date.

So in this episode, we're talking to TWO experts from the Provide team—one with a background in practice construction and one with expertise in remodel financing. Casey Lear is a senior project manager at Provide, and Jason Schneller is regional director of practice finance for Provide's California territory.

Together, they'll explain:

Why it's important to renovate and remodel a practice that's getting too old
How an out-of-date facility can cost you business and sap employee morale
Why it makes financial sense to remodel your practice now
What financing tools are available to help you pay for your remodeling plans

1. Why now is a great time to buy your dream healthcare practice, with Matthew Christie

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 10:00:00 -0000

As a dentist or veterinarian, making the big leap from associate to practice owner can be a life-changing (and intimidating) decision.

And with a constantly shifting economic situation, many aspiring practice owners might be wondering whether this is the right moment to pursue the practice of their dreams.

So in this episode, Matthew Christie, Provide's senior regional director of finance, joins us to share reasons why now is still an excellent time to buy your own practice.

With more than 20 years of specialized experience in small business lending, Matthew has funded nearly 1,000 financing deals in his career.

He'll tell us:

How to know whether you're ready to buy your own practice.
What industry trends aspiring practice owners should be aware of.
What resources are available to help dentists and veterinarians acquire a practice.

Coming Soon: The Path to Owning It, a Podcast by Provide: How to Realize Your Healthcare Practice Ownership Dreams by Provide

Sun, 05 Jun 2022 00:40:00 -0000

Discover how to realize your healthcare practice ownership dreams with Corey Brown, a marketing leader at Provide.

Join Corey twice a month on The Path to Owning It: where existing and aspiring healthcare practice owners can gain the tools they need from dental, veterinary, and other industry leaders to take their practice ownership dreams into their own hands.

Guests on The Path to Owning It will span Provide’s vast network of practice finance industry experts, including attorneys, practice brokers, CPAs, Provide team members, and more. From owning your own practice to expanding or improving your existing practice, Corey and guests will help pave the way for you to achieve your dental or veterinary career dreams and guide you through all the nuances of the practice ownership journey.

Powered by Fifth Third Bank, Provide is on a mission to financially empower healthcare providers with great people and innovative technology. As the leader in tech-enabled financial services for aspiring and established healthcare practice owners, Provide offers an unmatched combination of industry expertise, personalized service, and customized financial products – enabling providers to achieve their ownership dreams, realize financial independence, and improve the industry’s standard of care. Founded in a one-bedroom San Francisco apartment in 2013, Provide was acquired by Fifth Third in 2021 and in 2023 was named one of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies. Learn more at getprovide.com, and join the conversation on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok.