Entrepreneur Mindset-Reset with Tracy Cherpeski

In this solo episode, Tracy shares the exact Strategic Decision Framework that her most successful clients use to make confident business decisions without the sleepless nights. If you've ever found yourself second-guessing strategic choices or avoiding important decisions altogether, this episode reveals why practice leaders struggle with business decision-making and provides a simple but powerful 5-question filter that brings immediate clarity to any strategic choice.  Episode Highlights:  Why clinical training actually works against you when making business decisions • The hidden cost most practice owners miss when evaluating opportunities • How to distinguish between strategic opportunities and shiny objects • The crucial question that separates reactive leaders from proactive ones • Why "not deciding" is still a decision with real consequences Notable Quotes:  "Your clinical training taught you to make evidence-based decisions with clear protocols. But business decisions require you to act with incomplete information."  "Every yes is an automatic no to something else."  "Strategic thinking isn't a luxury when you're a practice owner—it's a necessity."  "When you make one good strategic decision, it eliminates dozens of smaller decisions down the road."  Ready to discover where your practice stands?  Take our Practice Growth Readiness Assessment to identify your current stage and biggest leverage points for sustainable growth. Strategic thinking starts with knowing exactly where you are in your leadership journey.  This episode is part of the Thriving Practice podcast series, focused on helping healthcare provider-owners build sustainable, profitable practices through strategic operations and leadership development.  Take your Practice Growth Readiness Assessment   Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  See Where Your Practice Stands: Take our Practice Growth Readiness Assessment  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

In this intimate snack episode, Miranda interviews Tracy about the power of community in healthcare practice management. Tracy shares why she believes the traditional approach of "going it alone" leads to burnout and how a community of practice model provides both practical business support and crucial emotional backing for healthcare entrepreneurs.  Key Highlights  The difference between community of practice and traditional networking - it's about taking off your masks and being raw  How isolation and solitude plague healthcare business owners, even those with great teams  The three-pronged challenge: full-time practitioner + practice owner + chief strategist roles  A real client story: discovering thousands in monthly losses due to double-billing text reminders  Why solo providers need creative business solutions while multi-provider practices need leadership focus  The value of 360-degree feedback systems for practice owners  How community support creates a sense of limitless possibility  Memorable Quotes  "When we feel as humans supported, we feel pretty limitless, like we can do anything."  "The blessing and curse of being a practice owner who's also a practitioner is pretty much working full time providing healthcare services and then the full time job as the practice owner."  "You get to take off your masks and just be yourself and be raw and talk about the hard stuff with other people who get it."  This episode reinforces why the Thriving Practice Community exists - to ensure healthcare providers have the support, systems, and community they need to build sustainable, thriving practices without sacrificing their well-being.  Miranda's Bio:  Miranda Dorta, B.F.A. (she/her/hers) is the Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with expertise in writing and creative storytelling, Miranda brings her skills in operations, public relations, and communication strategies to the Thriving Practice community. Based in the City of Oaks, she joined the team in 2021 and has been instrumental in streamlining operations while managing the company's public presence since 2022.   Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  See Where Your Practice Stands: Take our Practice Growth Readiness Assessment  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Episode Overview  Dr. Sarah Crawford, DPT, shares how she's revolutionizing healthcare delivery through Anchor Wellness Center - an innovative collaborative model that brings independent practitioners together under one roof. With 98% patient retention and 30% year-over-year growth for member practices, Sarah's approach proves that excellent care and profitable business aren't mutually exclusive.  Key Highlights  The Healthcare Crisis: Only 18% of licensed physical therapists actually work in clinics due to system burnout and barriers to quality care  The Collaborative Advantage: Shared overhead, unified systems, and peer accountability create better outcomes for both providers and patients  Breaking the Poverty Mindset: Healthcare providers must value their expertise and charge accordingly - "if you don't make money, you have an incredibly expensive hobby"  The Entrepreneurship Reality: Building a practice will "crack you wide open" - embrace the vulnerability as essential growth  Systems vs. Solo Practice: Creating scalable businesses that can operate without the founder, not just "expensive lifestyle businesses"  Memorable Quotes  "The biggest barrier to healthcare is continuity of care - patients get bounced from provider to provider with too much time and space between them."  "Political correctness doesn't work in healthcare because it doesn't help people get better. If someone's had ineffective care, let them know it."  "Entrepreneurship cracks you wide open - all your vulnerabilities and insecurities are right at the forefront. You can surround yourself with people who help you grow, or you can resist it."  "You can't help anybody authentically if you haven't done your own work first."  "Love the hell out of people, including yourself. Sit into your own power and recognize that your zone of genius is a gift to the world."  Closing Thoughts  Sarah's model represents the future of healthcare - provider-centered care that actually centers the patient. By removing administrative burdens and creating true collaboration between practitioners, she's proving that the answer to our healthcare crisis isn't more regulations or bigger systems - it's empowering excellent providers to do what they do best. Her message is clear: bet on yourself, value your expertise, and don't apologize for building something profitable that genuinely serves people.  Bio:  Dr. Sarah Crawford, DPT, COMT, earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Miami in 2011. With over 14 years of experience in physical therapy and healthcare administration, she has served as office manager, clinical director, and partner for several independent practices before founding Anchor Wellness Center and Wave Physical Therapy and Pilates in 2019.  Dr. Crawford specializes in orthopedic manual therapy, chronic pain management, and Pilates-based rehabilitation. She was the first physical therapist certified in Trigger Point Dry Needling in Ohio and brings extensive training in neurological rehabilitation. Her comprehensive approach integrates neuromuscular, fascial, and musculoskeletal systems to optimize patient outcomes.  Driven by the recognition that traditional healthcare is reactive and fragmented, Dr. Crawford created the Anchor Wellness Center to support local healthcare entrepreneurs in a collaborative environment that ultimately improves patient care through true integration of services.  Find Dr. Sarah:  Website  Instagram   See Where Your Practice Stands: Take our Practice Growth Readiness Assessment  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

When Dr. Ruth Mannschreck faced a life-changing situation that forced her to compress five full days of dentistry into just two and a half days, she discovered something remarkable: the systems that gave her life back were the exact same ones that made her practice incredibly valuable to potential buyers. In this episode, Ruth shares her five-step framework for transforming from a "cave dweller" practice owner who's involved in everything to a leader who's built a self-propelling business. We dive deep into creating intentional culture, the art of delegation beyond clinical tasks, and why the best time to start planning your exit is right now – whether you plan to sell in two years or twenty.  Episode Highlights  The "handpiece rule"that transformed Ruth's delegation approach: If you don't need your license or specialized tools to do it, you shouldn't be doing it  Culture as competitive advantage: How to turn vague core values into specific, observable behaviors your team can demonstrate and celebrate The "showtime" principlefor creating consistent patient experiences, even when team members are having personal challenges  Why "harmony" beats "balance": Understanding work-life integration as a dynamic dance rather than a static state Systems thinking for small practices: How to create communication flows that eliminate silos and keep everyone informed The psychology of millennial and Gen Z team management: Moving from "I know, so I'll tell you" leadership to outcome-focused delegation Exit planning as daily practice: Why building a sellable business improves your current quality of life and protects your team's future Differentiation beyond revenue: The multiple factors that make practices attractive to buyers, regardless of size Memorable Quotes  "If you don't need a handpiece and you don't need your dental license to do it, you're not allowed to do it."  "I call them cave dwellers where we're off on our own and we cling to each other when we go to conventions every year, because we need to speak with someone, an adult, another person who's in the leadership role."  "No one wants to buy your job. If you are part of everything in running your business, you're selling them a job and that's not what they're looking for."  "Balance means you're static and I don't want people to be static. Harmony is one way, and then two measures later, it's in a whole different key, but it's still balanced."  "Pick one thing that makes your heart sing, that you are amazing at, that people come to you for, stick to that one thing that you do, and then surround yourself with experts to do all the other things."  "Start like today. Today's a good day to get your business ready to sell. Tomorrow, in 10 years, whatever it is, because you'll be a happier business owner when you're not doing everything yourself."  Resources Mentioned  Free Resource: Visit workfewerhours.com for Ruth's checklist on building systems that give you your life back Whether you're drowning in daily operations or already thinking about your exit strategy, this conversation offers a roadmap for building a practice that serves you instead of consuming you. The best part? Every step toward freedom is also a step toward creating something truly valuable – for you, your team, and your future buyers.  Bio:  Dr. Ruth Mannschreck, DDS is a business strategist who helps small business owners transform their practices into businesses they can step away from – and eventually sell. Drawing from her experience on both sides of buying and selling businesses, Ruth specializes in systems design, team building, and creating client experiences that work without the owner's constant involvement. She guides business owners from "business as usual" to "business designed for YOU," focusing on fewer working hours, stronger teams, and exit-ready operations. Ruth hosts the Team Led Business Success Podcast and has successfully built and sold her own dental practice using the systematic approach she now teaches.  Find Dr. Ruth:  Website  LinkedIn  See Where Your Practice Stands: Take our Practice Growth Readiness Assessment  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Episode Overview  In this candid snack episode, Miranda Dorta turns the microphone around to interview Tracy Cherpeski about her specialized consulting approach for healthcare practice owners. This unscripted conversation reveals the genuine dynamic between the hosts while exploring the unique challenges facing healthcare providers who own their practices. Tracy shares insights on identifying scalability readiness, overcoming time management struggles, and the evolution from one-on-one consulting to building the Thriving Practice Community.  Key Highlights  The Business Acumen Gap: Healthcare providers often lack the business training needed to successfully operate their practices, despite their extensive clinical expertise The "Too Busy" Pattern: Practice owners frequently get caught in cycles of handling tasks that could be delegated to practice managers or administrative staff Scalability Assessment: Practices need solid operational foundations—including clinical, front office, and back office operations manuals—before they're ready to scale Community-Driven Support: The Thriving Practice Community was launched to create a peer ecosystem where healthcare providers can crowdsource business solutions and build a social safety net Delegation Dynamics: Many practice owners hesitate to delegate not from a need for control, but from concern about overwhelming their already busy teams Memorable Quotes  "In all the places for people to be struggling in their business, healthcare just really should not be one of them. It shouldn't be so hard."  "You provider owners are wearing two full time professional hats, maybe even kind of like a third one if you separate strategy from leadership."  "Just because you can doesn't mean that you should. Unless your entire staff is down with some stomach virus, you're not going to be doing your blood draws—your team is going to be doing that because that's what they're really good at."  "If we can smooth over the strategic aspect of it, the leadership aspect of it, the operational side and get it running like a well-oiled machine, then life is so much better and easier on the clinical side and outside of work."  "We wanted to take the focus off of me as the provider and build an ecosystem that's truly supportive, that creates that social safety net for people."  Miranda's Bio:  Miranda Dorta, B.F.A. (she/her/hers) is the Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with expertise in writing and creative storytelling, Miranda brings her skills in operations, public relations, and communication strategies to the Thriving Practice community. Based in the City of Oaks, she joined the team in 2021 and has been instrumental in streamlining operations while managing the company's public presence since 2022.  Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Episode Overview  Jennifer Raams, coach with Practice Freedom U, joins Tracy to discuss the critical role of emotional intelligence (EQ) in healthcare practice management. This conversation explores how self-awareness, stress management, and intentional leadership create thriving practices where both providers and patients flourish.  Key Highlights  The Inner Game of Practice Management  Stressed practitioners create stressed practices - it shows up in patient interactions, team dynamics, and business performance  The importance of moving from reactive to responsive leadership through self-awareness  How clinical excellence skills can become business liabilities without proper emotional regulation  The Flourishing Zone Framework  Green zone: flourishing state where leaders show up intentionally  Red zone: defensive/attack mode that damages relationships and decision-making  Frozen zone: low energy state that leads to stagnation and burnout  Goal: Spend 80% of time in the green zone using practical tools and awareness  Leadership as Nervous System Regulation  Culture isn't built through workshops - it's created through how you show up moment by moment  The power of presence: being able to "read the room" and respond appropriately to team needs  Switching between clinical and business "hats" to maintain appropriate focus  Practical EQ Tools  Two key questions for fear-based thinking: "Where do I choose to put my attention?" and "Where do I have influence?"  The power of curiosity over defensiveness in difficult situations  Simple physical shifts (changing hands, standing/sitting) to interrupt triggered states  Memorable Quotes  "If you're not okay, your business is going to suffer, period."  "Culture is not a workshop - it's how you show up every single moment."  "The biggest stress contributor is when you feel you have no control and no influence."  "We only have this second. What am I choosing intentionally to do now about it?"  "When your people are flourishing, your business is thriving. There's no way around it."  "Every skill, every behavior is learned - it's a skill you can learn and also unlearn."  Key Takeaways  Start with self-awareness: Recognize your triggers, stress levels, and default responses before trying to manage others  Invest early in leadership development: Building culture, systems, and leadership teams takes time - don't wait until you're scaling  Focus on what you can control: When overwhelmed, return to the basics of where you put your attention and where you have influence  Make coaching a priority: Having a confidential sounding board accelerates growth and prevents costly mistakes  Think beyond the clinical hat: Practice owners must develop the ability to shift between provider and CEO mindsets  This episode emphasizes that sustainable practice success requires more than clinical expertise - it demands emotional intelligence, intentional leadership, and the courage to invest in personal development alongside business growth.  Bio:  Jennifer Raams is an entrepreneur and business coach who arrived in Hawaii with just a suitcase, a physical therapy diploma, and $2,000, ultimately building a thriving PT business that empowers leaders to scale with purpose. As a coach with Practice Freedom U, she specializes in leadership development, strategic growth, and succession planning. With 20 years of COO experience scaling a multi-clinic practice and leading high-performing teams, Jennifer helps practice owners gain clarity, confidence, and the tools to build thriving, sustainable businesses that leave a lasting impact.  Find Jennifer:  Practice Freedom U Website  LinkedIn  Jennifer's Website  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Episode Overview  During Mental Health Awareness Month and Men's Mental Health Awareness Month, we explore a critical business issue affecting healthcare practices nationwide. Male patients with undiagnosed PTSD and mental health challenges are creating hidden operational costs, revenue losses, and staff frustration—all while walking out feeling unheard and unlikely to return. This episode breaks down the business case for recognizing how men's mental health decline presents differently and provides actionable strategies to turn this challenge into a competitive advantage.  Note: We approach this topic from a business and operational perspective, deferring to clinical mental health professionals for diagnosis and treatment guidance.  Key Highlights  The Hidden Financial Impact: Unrecognized men's mental health issues cost practices through incomplete care cycles, staff burnout, reputation damage, and missed referral opportunities Why Traditional Approaches Fail: Current assessment tools and communication strategies were developed primarily for women, creating systematic blind spots for male presentations Different Presentation Patterns: Men with PTSD show anger instead of sadness, risk-taking behaviors, work performance swings, and physical symptoms rather than traditional emotional indicators The Competitive Advantage: Practices that adapt first will capture a significantly underserved market segment and become go-to providers for entire families Strategic Implementation: Small, targeted modifications create maximum impact—environmental changes, communication training, enhanced screening, and referral network development Measurement Matters: Track engagement rates, referral completion, patient satisfaction by gender, and reputation metrics to ensure sustainable change Leadership Opportunity: Position your practice as a leader in comprehensive mental wellness during awareness months Memorable Quotes  "You're looking at undiagnosed PTSD and mental health decline in men, and it's creating a cascade of operational problems that are costing you significantly."  "Your practice was designed around assessment tools and communication strategies developed primarily for women. This isn't anyone's fault—it's just the historical reality of healthcare development. But it's creating a systematic blind spot."  "The practices that thrive in the next decade are going to be the ones that can adapt their operations to meet patients where they are, not where we think they should be."  "Every patient who feels unheard, misunderstood, or inadequately treated represents lost revenue, missed opportunities, and potential reputation damage."  "Thriving practices aren't built on good intentions—they're built on strategic systems that deliver consistent results for both patients and providers."  Action Items for Listeners  ✓ Assess your current intake forms for gender-neutral mental health screening ✓ Train staff to ask functional impact questions rather than emotional state questions  ✓ Evaluate your waiting room environment and reading materials ✓ Build relationships with mental health providers specializing in men's mental health ✓ Implement tracking systems for male patient engagement and satisfaction ✓ Start with one strategic modification that aligns with your current resources  This episode is part of the Thriving Practice podcast series, focused on helping healthcare provider-owners build sustainable, profitable practices through strategic operations and leadership development.  Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Episode Overview  In this candid snack episode, Miranda Dorta puts Tracy Cherpeski in the interview seat to explore the essential roadmap from where healthcare practice owners are now to where they want to be. This unscripted conversation dives deep into the systems, strategies, and team-building approaches that create sustainable practice growth. Whether you're taking your first growth step or navigating complex expansion challenges, this episode provides the clarity and confidence needed to move forward strategically.  Key Highlights  Subtract Before You Multiply- Essential pre-growth evaluation to identify systems that won't scale and operational bottlenecks that need addressing  Capacity Assessment- How to determine if your current systems can "rinse and repeat" with minimal intervention before expanding  Sustainable Growth Rates- Understanding the difference between rapid growth (which sometimes just happens) and sustainable 30% year-over-year growth  Values-Driven Decision Making- Distinguishing between growth opportunities that align with core values versus those that simply increase revenue  The WAIT Method- Strategic pausing using the acronym "Why Am I Talking?" to ensure thoughtful leadership decisions  Culture as Foundation- How practice culture extends far beyond pizza parties to include conflict resolution, team unity during challenges, and shared vision alignment  Memorable Quotes  "You need to subtract before you multiply. If you don't take care of your problems, they're gonna grow with you."  "The key is if the systems you have in place can basically rinse, repeat, with minimal intervention, you're probably in a really good place to expand."  "We call it a shiny object and we call that the SOS - the shiny object syndrome."  "Culture isn't a workshop that you attend. If you're the head of practice and you're the practice owner, you set the tone."  "When you come together for a common goal, which would be the vision and mission of the practice, when you have your team on board, that's everything. That really is everything."  Miranda's Bio:  Miranda Dorta, B.F.A. (she/her/hers) is the Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with expertise in writing and creative storytelling, Miranda brings her skills in operations, public relations, and communication strategies to the Thriving Practice community. Based in the City of Oaks, she joined the team in 2021 and has been instrumental in streamlining operations while managing the company's public presence since 2022.   Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Episode Overview  In this refreshing conversation, Justin Strong from Room 118 challenges everything you think you know about marketing. Moving away from the "throw spaghetti at the wall" approach that's given marketing a bad reputation, Justin advocates for a scientific, data-driven methodology that treats marketing like clinical diagnostics - complete with "x-rays" before making recommendations.  Drawing from his analysis of over 4,000 dental practices through the Dental Marketing Index, Justin reveals why traditional marketing approaches often fail and how practice owners can make informed decisions based on hard data rather than gut feelings or sales pitches.  Key Topics Discussed  The Marketing Trust Problem: Why marketing has earned its bad reputation and how to identify high-integrity marketers who prioritize results over profits The Dental Marketing Index: A comprehensive analysis of 4,000+ practices that reveals what actually correlates with success vs. what agencies typically sell Market Diagnostics: Why every marketing decision should start with understanding your local market demographics, competition, and patient behavior patterns The "Near Me" Revolution: How patient behavior has fundamentally shifted, with "dentist near me" becoming the most searched term and average patient lifetime dropping from 14-17 years to under 5 years The Sales Gap: Why great marketing often fails due to poor follow-through - missing online schedulers, unreturned calls, and inadequate patient experience systems Competition as Innovation Driver: How high-density markets like DC create exceptional patient experiences through competitive pressure The Science of Marketing: Moving from creative guesswork to measurable, forecastable strategies based on data analysis Memorable Quotes  "Marketing's job should be to tell you, is this possible in your local market? If so, where is our best opportunity for success? And then it should give practical recommendations based on that."  "It's sort of like a patient walked in and said, I have a tooth. Therefore, I need you to pull this tooth. And your response is going to be, why don't we take a look at the tooth? How about that x-ray first?"  "All a brand is is the small bit of space you occupy in your patients' minds. What do they think when they think of your brand?"  "If you think they're doing it, they've been doing it for a while." (on data privacy and corporate surveillance)  "There is a way to reduce complexity... hire good people to solve problems. If you understand where you want to go as a practice owner... recognize what the challenges are you must overcome, and hire good people to solve those problems."  The Bottom Line  Marketing doesn't have to be a guessing game. When approached scientifically - with proper market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and data-driven decision making - it becomes a powerful tool for practice growth. The key is finding marketers who prioritize your success over their service offerings and who can provide the objective "map" you need to navigate from where you are to where you want to go.  Bio:  Justin Strong is the Founder and CEO of Room 118, Inc., a dental research and marketing agency focused on data-driven practice growth. With 25 years of experience in marketing and strategy, he's led multi-billion-dollar initiatives at Verizon Enterprise Solutions and McCann. Recognizing the gap in evidence-based dental marketing, Justin pioneered the Dental Marketing Index, analyzing 4,000+ practices to identify what actually drives results. He specializes in helping practice owners move from random marketing tactics to predictable, high-ROI strategies using Fortune 500-level data insights applied to local dental marketing.  Find Justin:  Website  LinkedIn  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

Tracy sits down with David Ford, CEO of CMA Physician Services, to challenge the notion that independent medical practices are becoming obsolete. David shares his passion for supporting private practitioners and unveils Medway, a new subscription-based service designed to lift administrative burdens off physicians' shoulders. Through compelling stories and practical insights, David makes the case that private practice may actually be the wave of the future, with more physicians seeking independence and control over their practice style. This conversation offers hope and practical guidance for healthcare providers considering or currently managing independent practices.  Episode Highlights:  CMA Physician Services' mission to help independent practices thrive through "the upside of coordination without the downside of consolidation"  How the soon-to-launch Medway service helps physicians outsource administrative burdens like payroll, benefits, and compliance  The story of a physician in California's high desert who can continue serving Medicare patients thanks to shared savings programs  Why private practice isn't dead - and may actually be making a comeback  The systemic challenges facing new physicians with student debt, and programs that help address these barriers  How lifting administrative burdens gives physicians more time for patients AND personal life  The importance of community-centered healthcare and treating social determinants of health  Memorable Quotes:  "Independent practice isn't dead, like you can do it." - David Ford  "You didn't do all that schooling to run payroll." - David Ford  "Why would you own your practice if you don't have control over your schedule and your time? What's the point?" - Tracy Cherpeski  "I think of it like standing on the beach and seeing the swell that's a half mile out... it's not a wave yet, but you can see a little bit of a swell out there." - David Ford on the trend of physicians returning to private practice  "It can be done... It probably can't be done the same way it was 50 or 60 years ago. You have to approach it a little differently... But it is very much still possible. You can do it. You can be successful and you can thrive, have your practice and still have the life you want to have." - David Ford  Bio:  David Ford serves as the CEO of CMA Physician Services, a subsidiary of the California Medical Association. A nationally recognized expert in health information technology, David previously led as Vice President of Health IT at CMA where he developed thought leadership in electronic health records, health information exchange, and telehealth. Prior to CMA, he was Executive Director of CalHIPSO, the nation's largest federally designated Regional Extension Center, where he helped thousands of safety net providers implement health IT systems to improve care delivery and participate in payment reform. David began his career in the California State Legislature, most recently as Chief of Staff to then-Assemblymember Ted Lieu. He holds a BA in Political Science from The American University in Washington, D.C.  Find David:  Website  LinkedIn  BlueSky  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

In this enlightening "snack episode," host Miranda Dorta turns the mic around to interview Tracy Cherpeski about the critical connection between leadership approaches and healthcare practice success. Tracy reveals how healthcare providers often exhibit confidence in clinical settings but struggle with business leadership, sharing practical insights on adapting leadership styles while maintaining authenticity. She introduces the concept of "changing hats" to help practitioners mentally transition between clinical and leadership roles, and emphasizes that micromanagement isn't always negative when applied strategically. Tracy's most impactful leadership tip? The power of the pause—what she calls "WAIT" (Why Am I Talking?)—allowing leaders to respond thoughtfully rather than reactively.  Episode Highlights:  The pattern Tracy observed in healthcare providers: confidence in clinical delegation but timidity in business leadership  How practitioners can transfer clinical skills to leadership while knowing which habits to "surgically remove"  The cognitive trick of "changing hats" to help the brain switch between clinical and leadership mindsets  Why micromanagement isn't always negative and when it might be necessary  The most powerful leadership adjustment: learning to pause before reacting  Memorable Quotes:  "Sometimes their business model is to hope for the best."  "Leadership doesn't mean knowing everything. It doesn't mean being in command or control of every single thing."  "Micromanagement - it's not a four-letter word, but it sounds like it could be."  "If you take your hands off, not abdicate your responsibility for success, but take your hands off and let them do their work, they will rise to the occasion."  "We call it WAIT. It's an acronym. Why Am I Talking?"  Miranda's Bio:  Miranda Dorta, B.F.A. (she/her/hers) is the Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with expertise in writing and creative storytelling, Miranda brings her skills in operations, public relations, and communication strategies to the Thriving Practice community. Based in the City of Oaks, she joined the team in 2021 and has been instrumental in streamlining operations while managing the company's public presence since 2022.   Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

In this episode, we speak with Asha Strazzero-Wild, co-founder of Outpointe, a growth strategy and execution firm specializing in healthcare. Asha shares her fascinating journey from aspiring doctor to education and public health before founding Outpointe with business partner Kelly Wilder. Their firm helps healthcare organizations optimize resources and improve patient and provider experiences through data-driven strategies and tactical support. Drawing on their combined 50 years of experience, Asha and Kelly guide healthcare companies in prioritizing initiatives, aligning metrics, and executing effectively on their vision in an increasingly complex market.  Key Takeaways  Data-driven decision making is crucial for healthcare organizations to prioritize initiatives and allocate resources effectively  The importance of speaking the same language when defining metrics and success criteria before launching initiatives  Outpointe's proprietary Growth Readiness Outlook assessment helps organizations evaluate their readiness for growth across key areas including customer experience, financial work, sales and marketing, and workforce development  The value of intentionally seeking feedback from those implementing best practices in your industry to drive continuous improvement  Why focusing on your strengths is as important as addressing areas for improvement when building effective teams  The boxing inspiration behind the name "Outpointe" - strategically coming back round after round to outpoint your opponent (the market)  Memorable Quotes  "Everyone says 'I've got this great idea,' but actually operationalizing that and executing on it and being strategic about what you choose to do and not do is hard."  "At the end of the day, we're all working to help make healthcare better."  "Don't focus exclusively on what you need to do better. Don't forget to focus on what you do really well, and keep doing that really well."  "When you're thinking about how you are going to allow yourself to grow and evolve with the market and the market needs, it's really important. And it shouldn't be done in a vacuum."  Resources Mentioned  Book Recommendation: StrengthsFinder - for identifying your strengths and building effective teams  Bio:  Asha brings over 10 years of healthcare sector experience spanning public health, health technology, and corporate marketing. As co-founder of Outpointe, she helps healthcare organizations implement effective systems and processes for sustainable growth and successful innovation launches.  At The Advisory Board Company, Asha earned Pragmatic Marketing certifications and launched nearly a dozen successful analytics products. Later, as Senior Vice President of Integrated Sales and Marketing at a leading life sciences company, she drove effective marketing strategies that generated nearly $50 million in sales over three years. Her expertise includes managing multi-million-dollar budgets, integrating sales and marketing functions, and measuring marketing ROI.  Asha has overseen multiple acquisitions and product launches throughout her career. When not working, she enjoys spending time at the hockey rink with her son and leading community volunteer efforts in the Boston area.  Find Asha:  Website  LinkedIn  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

In this episode, Tracy explores how independent healthcare practice owners can leverage small wellness initiatives as powerful demonstrations of leadership. Against the backdrop of unprecedented challenges in healthcare—from high turnover to political pressures—she reveals how intentional wellness practices create disproportionate returns for small practices. Unlike large healthcare systems, small practices have a "leadership proximity advantage" that makes even modest wellness initiatives more effective. Tracy shares practical, low-cost approaches that strengthen team culture, improve retention, and ultimately create more sustainable practices. The episode highlights how leadership presence, rather than elaborate programs, is the true foundation of practice wellbeing.  Episode Highlights:  Why small practices have a distinct advantage in implementing effective wellness initiatives  A simple 20-minute weekly wellness activity that costs nothing but delivers remarkable results  Five mindset practices that integrate wellness into everyday leadership  How to measure the ROI of wellness initiatives through reduced absenteeism and improved engagement  The critical connection between a leader's own sustainable energy and team wellness  Memorable Quotes:  "Culture isn't a workshop we attend. It's about the example we set."  "The most successful practice owners know that wellness isn't about implementing a program—it's about investing in your most valuable asset: your people."  "Small, consistent wellness actions may seem insignificant compared to the daily operations of your practice, but they can completely redirect your practice culture."  "The practices that consistently outperform, even in challenging times, aren't necessarily the ones with the most resources—they're the ones led by owners who understand that how they show up matters more than what they say."  "You can't pour from an empty cup. The foundation of any successful team wellness initiative is your own sustainable energy as a leader."  Free Resource Mentioned: Download the Energy Audit workbook at PracticeSuccess.co/resources  Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page 

In this candid, unscripted "snack episode," Tracy is interviewed by Miranda, our Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International and the Thriving Practice Community. Tracy shares her practical planning process for helping healthcare practice owners transform their ideas into achievable quarterly goals. She explains how to plan effectively even during uncertainty and maintain enthusiasm while building a practice vision despite challenges.  Key Takeaways:  Tracy's planning process starts with clarity - connecting the what, why, and how of your goals  Emotional connection to goals makes it easier to put in the necessary effort  Beginning with clarity increases speed rather than haste  Break down long-term goals by working backward - from 12 months to 9, 6, 3 months, then to weekly and daily tasks  Breaking goals into smaller chunks prevents feeling overwhelmed  Celebrate daily accomplishments with a "ta-da list" to maintain positive energy and momentum  Look for subtle wins: improved feelings, better sleep, increased energy at work  Lack of patience is a major challenge for healthcare entrepreneurs who want solutions immediately  The importance of "slowing down to speed up" - surrendering to the process brings clarity  Finding your practice's unique edge goes beyond clinical expertise to what makes you stand out in a competitive market  Notable Quotes:  "When we're emotionally connected to a goal, then it's easier for us...to put in the effort and the labor that's required to make something come to fruition."  "Clarity actually helps us increase speed rather than like haste."  "Sometimes when we have big goals, it can feel so overwhelming that we don't even start."  "My coach who trained me taught me about the ta-da list at the end of each day, which is...don't diminish progress."  "When we use this beautiful tool called surrender and we trust the process, that slowing down brings us that clarity that helps us then move forward with more speed."  "What makes you stand out so that you don't feel like it's about competition...Seth Godin calls it Purple Cow. Right? Like, what is it about your practice that makes you unique? And it can't just be your clinical expertise. It's not enough."  Miranda's Bio:  Miranda Dorta, B.F.A. (she/her/hers) is the Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with expertise in writing and creative storytelling, Miranda brings her skills in operations, public relations, and communication strategies to the Thriving Practice community. Based in the City of Oaks, she joined the team in 2021 and has been instrumental in streamlining operations while managing the company's public presence since 2022.  Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated.  Connect With Us:  Be a Guest on the Show  Thriving Practice Community  Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy  Tracy's LinkedIn  Business LinkedIn Page  Thriving Practice Community Instagram 

Episode Overview In this episode of Thriving Practice, I speak with Sarah Clark, founder of Sarah Clark Consulting, who helps medical, dental, and chiropractic practices transform operational chaos into sustainable calm. Sarah's approach combines fractional practice administration with process improvement strategies that allow providers to focus on patient care rather than administrative burdens. We explore how small, intentional changes in technology and workflow can dramatically improve both the patient experience and staff satisfaction. Sarah shares concrete examples of how simple solutions like automated appointment reminders have freed up staff time and improved patient punctuality by 30% in one practice. Her compassionate, results-driven methodology emphasizes that providers don't need to make sweeping changes all at once – even incremental improvements can lead to significant positive outcomes for practice efficiency and provider wellbeing. Featured Quotes "What I do is I help private medical, dental, chiropractor, anything in that field...turn their chaos into calm. And I sort of make a joke of, well, not all the way calm, more like calm-er. Because if it's really quiet and it's really calm, that's probably also like it's never really gonna happen that way." "Burnout is not just taking care of the patients and dealing with that burden that gets put onto their shoulders, but having to run an office when a physician did not go to business school becomes really difficult...It's overwhelming. That's a full-time job." "There are ways that you can do that and take some of the manual part of the stuff that leads up to that diagnosis...once the clients, once the business owners understand that it's okay to elevate something else off of you, to give it to somebody that has the experience and the time and the understanding to do it, it is, I mean, I have two clients that will just send me a text message about whatever it is and they used to say just handle it, now that just handle it is understood." What You'll Learn Listen for these key insights: How the "Four P's" framework (People, Paperwork, Processes, and Patients) can transform your practice Why technology adoption doesn't have to be overwhelming—and how small changes like automated appointment reminders can have outsized impacts The surprising connection between provider burnout and patient experience How fractional practice administration can provide expert support for practices that can't justify a full-time administrator The critical importance of developing a strategic plan for your practice, including your eventual exit strategy Why compassion isn't just good medicine—it's good business (with scientific evidence to back it up!) Resources Mentioned Compassionomics: The Revolutionary Scientific Evidence that Caring Makes a Difference - Book recommendation from Sarah about the impact of compassion on patient outcomes and provider burnout Thriving Practice is hosted and executive produced by Tracy Cherpeski. Our mission is to help healthcare practitioners build sustainable, impactful businesses while maintaining their own wellbeing. Bio: Sarah Clark is the founder of Sarah Clark Consulting, where she helps medical, dental, and chiropractic practices transform operational chaos into sustainable calm. With a Master's degree in Kinesiology from Indiana University, Sarah built her career spanning both corporate healthcare with the NFL and independent medical practices. This diverse background gives Sarah a unique perspective from nearly all roles in a medical office, allowing her to identify pain points and implement collaborative solutions. She specializes in helping independent practitioners who often wear multiple hats without adequate training for all their responsibilities. Through fractional practice administration and process improvement, Sarah guides healthcare providers to become the best versions of themselves while improving operations and increasing profitability. Sarah lives in Huntersville, North Carolina where she enjoys outdoor activities, RV travel, cooking, and kickboxing when she's not transforming healthcare practices. Find Sarah: Website LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this insightful episode, TJ Slattery of Crow's Nest Mindset Consulting shares strategies for healthcare practice owners who find themselves stuck "below deck" in their businesses. TJ explains how practitioners can transition from frantically managing day-to-day operations to gaining the strategic perspective needed for sustainable growth and leadership. Through practical advice and compelling metaphors, he offers a roadmap for escaping the "entrepreneurial island" that traps many healthcare business owners. Episode Highlights: The crow's nest metaphor: Why healthcare providers often find themselves "shoveling water below deck" instead of navigating strategically The challenge of transitioning from clinical excellence (where "never let them see you sweat" is valued) to business leadership (where vulnerability and delegation are crucial) Understanding your true hourly value and why tasks like "opening the mail" could be costing you thousands Building a holistic performance model that aligns financial goals with marketing, operations, and leadership Moving from "magical thinking" about growth to practical planning with measurable steps The three mindset blocks that prevent effective delegation: martyrdom, "I alone can fix it," and guilt How creating space for your team allows them to develop, flourish, and make your business stronger Memorable Quotes: "The death of every entrepreneur is you all become glorified managers. If you're doing this right, in a year from now, you're not the one getting your hands dirty - you're managing people and managing your managers." "Would you pay a bookkeeper $1,200 an hour to go through your books? That's what you're doing when you handle those tasks yourself instead of delegating." "Just because we can doesn't mean we should. How is a business owner to fulfill their mission and vision if they're not able to get up to that view and keep checking on it?" "A lot of people, whatever their background or industry is, never let them see you sweat. That is a teachable mindset that you can maneuver over. That is something you can loosen up and get better at." Guest Bio: TJ Slattery is the Founder and Strategic Advisor at Crow's Nest Mindset Consulting, where he helps small business owners scale their enterprises and achieve greater freedom in both professional and personal spheres. With 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship and small business operations, TJ brings a unique blend of practical expertise and strategic insight to his clients. A self-described "business plan tinkerer," TJ's approach stems from genuine curiosity and a collaborative drive to identify core challenges and implement effective solutions. His diverse background includes founding a pedicab service in Vail, running a handyman business in Denver, partnering in a London-based facilities management firm, and co-founding Zuni Street Brewing Company. TJ holds a bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Business Management from Miami University of Ohio and an MBA from the University of Denver. When not helping business owners climb to their own crow's nest for a better strategic view, this Denver resident with Midwestern roots enjoys music, gardening, home projects, traveling, skiing, and spending quality time with his dog, Bella. Find TJ: Website LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this special "snack episode" of the Thriving Practice Podcast, Miranda Dorta interviews Tracy Cherpeski about the evolution of the healthcare industry since 2010. Tracy shares insights on current challenges facing independent practices, emerging business models, and essential skills for practice owners to thrive in today's healthcare landscape. From the concerning trend of private equity acquisitions to promising signs of physicians returning to independent practice, Tracy offers her perspective on where healthcare is heading and how practice owners can adapt. Main Points: Private equity acquisition of practices and expansion of larger institutions are concerning trends affecting independent healthcare practices Early signs suggest some physicians are returning to private practice after experiencing larger institutional settings Independent single-provider practices face significant financial challenges with high operating costs Collaborative group practices with multiple providers offer a sustainable model for the future Practice owners need to embrace their CEO role and focus on strategic leadership, delegation, and resource allocation Smart investment in marketing and operations is essential for practice growth, despite some resistance A shift back toward more relational, neighborhood-based practices may be emerging Notable Quotes: "I see independent provider practices struggling a lot with an individual, just one provider. So I am seeing a little bit more of a leaning towards a group focus or multiple providers." "I see practices that maybe are successful but they're not as profitable as they could be." "Most of our clients do not think of themselves as a CEO first. But if you're a business owner, you are the CEO." "It's not how you spend your time. If you're spending your time, you're probably wasting it... It's how you invest the resource, the finite resource of your time and energy." Miranda's Bio: Miranda Dorta, B.F.A. (she/her/hers) is the Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with expertise in writing and creative storytelling, Miranda brings her skills in operations, public relations, and communication strategies to the Thriving Practice community. Based in the City of Oaks, she joined the team in 2021 and has been instrumental in streamlining operations while managing the company's public presence since 2022. Tracy's Bio: Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated. Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Amir Baluch, a semi-retired anesthesiologist and founder of Blue Capital Partners, about alternative investment strategies for healthcare providers. Dr. Baluch shares insights on creating passive income streams, the importance of diversification beyond traditional stocks and bonds, and how strategic investments can "buy back time" for busy practitioners. While much of his financial advice offers valuable perspective for healthcare providers looking to reduce clinical hours and focus more on business development, we also provide important context regarding his comments on real estate investment and political policies that may contradict current research on housing affordability and economic impacts. Episode Highlights: The Power of Passive Income: How investing in alternative assets can create freedom in your schedule and reduce dependence on clinical hours Diversification Strategy: Why relying solely on traditional investments like stocks may not provide adequate returns in the coming decade Risk-Adjusted Returns: Understanding how to evaluate investments beyond just the stated return percentage Time vs. Money: Creating a strategic plan to gradually reduce clinical hours through passive income Marketing vs. Sales: The critical differences between creating awareness and converting leads Building a Sellable Practice: The importance of treating your practice like a business that could someday be sold Producer's Notes: Two topics discussed in this episode warrant additional context: Single-Family Home Investments: Institutional investor ownership of single-family homes has grown significantly, with just 32 institutional investors collectively owning 450,000 single-family homes by 2022. Research indicates non-individual investor ownership of single-family rentals increased from 17% in 2001 to 25% in 2021, with projections suggesting institutional investors could control 40% of U.S. single-family rental homes by 2030. This trend is contributing to the housing affordability crisis in many markets. Policy Impacts: Despite Dr. Baluch's enthusiasm about certain administration policies, current evidence suggests recent tariffs, immigration policies, and cuts to housing programs are adversely affecting housing affordability. Housing experts note that deportation plans could severely impact the construction industry, as immigrants make up approximately 30% of the construction labor force at a time when the National Association of Home Builders projects a need for 2.2 million new skilled construction workers. Sources: Government Accountability Office (GAO). "Rental Housing: Information on Institutional Investment in Single-Family Homes." May 2024. Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. "8 Facts About Investor Activity in the Single-Family Rental Market." 2024. MetLife Investment Management. "Housing Market Projections Report." 2023. The Washington Post. "Investors bought up a record share of homes last year." February 2022. Center for American Progress. "Americans Recognize Housing Affordability Crisis." October 2024. National Association of Home Builders. "Understanding Housing Affordability in Today's Market." July 2024. Bankrate. "How Will Tariffs And Deportations Affect Housing?" April 2025. Newsweek. "Trump Tariffs Could Slow US Housing Market in 2025." March 2025. ProPublica. "Trump Says He'll Fight for Working-Class Americans. His First Presidency Suggests He Won't." November 2024. National Low Income Housing Coalition. "Impacts of Trump Administration Executive Orders." April 2025. Notable Quotes: "If you diversify across enough asset classes, you could reduce your risk by 80% and still get the same returns." - Dr. Amir Baluch "When people don't write it down on a piece of paper, it never happens. They throw money here and there and a couple of investments. But at the end of the year, okay, how much time did that buy you back?" - Dr. Amir Baluch "Just imagine every dollar bill you have is a little soldier. You just want to put it to work out there." - Dr. Amir Baluch "If you're not measuring it, it doesn't get managed." - Dr. Amir Baluch "I think that's the key. Take your time and energy so that you can work on the business instead of being in it all the time." - Host Bio: Dr. Amir Baluch is a Wall Street Journal and international bestselling author who retired from anesthesiology in his early 40s to focus on transforming wealth management for healthcare professionals. After experiencing his father's bankruptcy and personal setbacks in 2001, he developed alternative investment strategies that have since helped numerous medical professionals achieve financial independence. As founder of Blue Capital Partners, Dr. Baluch manages over $700M in projects, specializing in creating passive income through real estate, private equity, and private credit investments. His expertise has been featured on ABC News, Business Insider, and Forbes. He's dedicated to empowering 10,000 healthcare professionals to secure financial freedom through recession-proof investment opportunities that provide not just wealth accumulation but also tax reduction and lifestyle flexibility. Dr. Baluch brings a unique physician-focused perspective to financial planning, having personally implemented the strategies he teaches to achieve early retirement and build lasting wealth. Find Dr. Baluch: Website LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this special "snack episode" of the Thriving Practice Podcast, our Manager of Operations and PR, Miranda Dorta, turns the mic around to interview Tracy Cherpeski, examining the reality of healthcare practice leadership. This candid, unscripted conversation explores how practice owners can achieve sustainable growth without sacrificing personal well-being. Tracy shares her evidence-based approaches to sustainability, effective boundary setting, and the systems that support healthcare practice owners, offering valuable insights on achieving harmony between professional demands and personal needs. Main Points: Well-being vs. Work-Life Balance: Tracy defines well-being as the complete picture encompassing physical, mental, and spiritual health along with business health. She challenges the concept of "balance," suggesting that harmony with one's life goals is more realistic for business owners. The Importance of Slowing Down: Tracy emphasizes that the first step to protecting time and energy is slowing down to gain "crystal clarity" about personal and professional goals, which allows practice owners to prioritize effectively. Recognizing When Growth Threatens Well-being: Through reflective questioning and coaching, Tracy helps healthcare professionals recognize patterns that compromise their well-being and guides them to meaningful "aha moments" about self-care. Addressing Perfectionism and Control: Tracy normalizes the control tendencies common in healthcare entrepreneurs while helping them learn true surrender—not abdication but rather building trust in themselves and their teams. Notable Quotes: "Well-being is really the entire picture of the human being's health—physical, spiritual, and mental—as well as the business." "I just don't believe in balance... Most of us spend more of our waking hours working than we do being home. So right away we're out of balance. So are we in harmony with what we want out of life and the business that we want?" "The most important piece of the puzzle is to slow down... It's really important to slow down so that we can get really clear. And this is the key to everything—crystal clarity." "Physicians in particular are trained like never to let anybody see them sweat... It takes a while to sort of crack that facade and allow their real deep humanity to come out." "When we put it back on them to look at themselves and to trust themselves, it changes the responsibility... They double down then on the responsibility to ensure that their team has what they need so that they can take their hands off of it." "Most of the time, the desire to control ends up being the Achilles heel... when they recognize that it's probably the cause of a lot of their challenges and energy drains, it becomes a little bit easier to let go." Miranda's Bio: Miranda Dorta, B.F.A. (she/her/hers) is the Manager of Operations and PR at Tracy Cherpeski International. A graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design with expertise in writing and creative storytelling, Miranda brings her skills in operations, public relations, and communication strategies to the Thriving Practice community. Based in the City of Oaks, she joined the team in 2021 and has been instrumental in streamlining operations while managing the company's public presence since 2022. Tracy's Bio: Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC (she/her/hers) is the Founder of Tracy Cherpeski International and Thriving Practice Community. As a Business Consultant and Executive Coach, Tracy helps healthcare practice owners scale their businesses without sacrificing wellbeing. Through strategic planning, leadership development, and mindset mastery, she empowers clients to reclaim their time and reach their potential. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, Tracy serves clients worldwide and is the Executive Producer and Host of the Thriving Practice podcast. Her guiding philosophy: Survival is not enough; life is meant to be celebrated. Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode of the Thriving Practice Podcast, host Tracy Cherpeski interviews Joanna Sapir, a business strategist who specializes in helping wellness practitioners build thriving practices without burning out. Airing during Stress Awareness Month, this conversation explores Joanna's revolutionary approach of "stop selling sessions, start creating programs" that helps practitioners create more predictable business models while delivering better outcomes for clients. Drawing from her own burnout experience as a practice owner, Joanna shares practical strategies for designing effective programs and treatment plans that benefit both practitioners and their clients. Key Highlights The Burnout Reality: How Joanna's emergency room visit within her first year of business became a wake-up call to reimagine how wellness practices can operate Paradigm Shift: The fundamental difference between selling individual sessions versus creating comprehensive healing journeys Business Benefits: How programs eliminate the financial impact of no-shows and create predictable, sustainable revenue Client Outcomes: Why structured programs lead to better compliance, deeper healing, and more satisfied clients Implementation Framework: Practical steps for designing programs that align with your modality and client needs Transition Strategies: How to introduce programs to existing clients without disrupting relationships Sales Process: Creating authentic enrollment conversations that align with healing values Topics Covered The profound difference between "packages" (discounted sessions) and true treatment programs Front-end and back-end program structures for different practitioner types How programs provide essential "guardrails" that keep clients on track with their health goals Why selling sessions creates unpredictable income and client progress The iterative approach to refining your programs over time Creating systems that allow practitioners to "just show up and do their best work" How program-based practices can scale more effectively Featured Examples Joanna shares two detailed program models: Physical Practitioner Model: A body worker's 6/9/12-week assessment-based treatment plans for pain relief and injury recovery Therapeutic Practitioner Model: A nervous system specialist's six-month cohort-based program for disordered eating with group and individual components Resources Mentioned Free Systems Guide: Three essential business systems for wellness practitioners: Lead generation system Lead capture system Sales process system Last week's solo episode on physician wellness and burnout prevention Joanna's comprehensive business development programs for wellness practitioners Episode Quotes "Stop selling sessions and start creating programs and treatment plans." - Joanna Sapir "When you have the systems and structures in place, you get to just show up and do your best work with the client." - Joanna Sapir "If you don't have a business that's making money that's sustaining you sufficiently, you have an incredibly expensive hobby." - Tracy Cherpeski "It's not necessarily about there being some people who are committed and some who aren't. It's actually about the boundaries you put in place, the guardrails that keep people in the lane." - Joanna Sapir "You can have a beautifully authentic, meaningful, connected sales process that enrolls your patients or your clients in these programs... it's a win-win-win all around." - Joanna Sapir Bio: Joanna Sapir is a business strategist who helps wellness practitioners build thriving practices without burning out. Joanna specializes in helping practitioners move from the unpredictable cycle of selling individual sessions to creating comprehensive programs and treatment plans that provide better client outcomes while creating sustainable, predictable income. Her clients include acupuncturists, bodyworkers, movement specialists, and practitioners who combine multiple healing modalities. Through her work, Joanna helps wellness professionals properly price and package their services, develop steady predictable income, clarify their unique vision and voice, and create systems that allow their businesses to run smoothly without constant hands-on management. Her ultimate goal is to help practitioners create the freedom and fulfillment that attracted them to healing work in the first place, while building businesses that truly support their desired lifestyle. Based in Central Mexico (as of this recording), Joanna continues to expand her impact by helping practitioners worldwide transform their approach to business and client care. Find Joanna: Website Link to free resource https://joannasapir.com/lp/systems/ LinkedIn Facebook Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

Episode Overview In this special solo episode for Stress Awareness Month, host Tracy Cherpeski shares insights from the Sonoma-Mendocino Lake County Healthcare Expo and Conference on physician wellness and burnout. Drawing from her 15+ years of consulting experience with healthcare practices, Tracy discusses how the unique challenges faced by independent practitioners affect both personal wellbeing and business success. Key Highlights The Burnout Crisis: 63% of physicians report at least one symptom of burnout according to Mayo Clinic research Double Impact: Practice owners face both clinical stress and business ownership pressures Strengths Becoming Weaknesses: How the qualities that make great healthcare providers (service orientation, high standards, problem-solving abilities) can undermine personal wellbeing Business Consequences: How unmanaged stress directly impacts practice revenue, staff retention, patient experience, and clinical decision-making Practical Solutions: Stress management strategies specifically designed for independent practitioners and small practice owners Topics Covered The unique stress patterns observed in healthcare practitioners vs. other professionals How to recognize early warning signs of burnout in yourself and colleagues The measurable business costs of practitioner stress Practical interventions that serve both wellbeing and business optimization Why institutional wellness approaches often fail independent practitioners Featured Framework Tracy's coaching approach for practice owners includes: Eight-area life assessment to identify imbalances "Threshold interventions" - small changes at critical junctures of the day Environmental modifications to reduce stress triggers Intentional calendaring and boundary-setting Integration of wellbeing strategies with business optimization Resources Mentioned Free Burnout Prevention Guide: Available at PracticeSuccess.co/resources (scroll to bottom of page), WHO's official burnout definition and 12-stage progression model Episode Quotes "In healthcare, your most important business asset isn't your equipment, your location, or even your patient list—it's you. And when you're operating from a place of chronic stress, every business metric eventually suffers." "Addressing practitioner stress isn't just a wellness nicety—it's a business imperative with measurable ROI. When practice owners invest in their wellbeing, they're making one of the most significant business investments possible." "We take the approach of building one's business around the life they want to live, not the other way around." Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this essential episode, we dive deep into the Profit First methodology and its game-changing impact on medical practices. Susanne Mariga, fractional CFO and co-author of "Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises," shares how implementing a simple five-bank-account system can create intentional profitability while improving patient care. This conversation addresses the critical gap in business education for medical professionals and offers practical solutions for building sustainable, profitable practices. Key Points: The traditional accounting equation (revenue - expenses = profit) often leads to practice owners working for free How the Profit First system creates intentional profitability through designated bank accounts Why profitable practices deliver better patient care and attract top talent The importance of building business value for eventual sale or retirement Practical steps for implementing Profit First, starting with small, manageable changes How automated banking systems can help enforce profitability The connection between practice profitability and work-life balance Resource Highlight: "Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises" by Susanne Mariga and Mike Michalowicz Each book purchase supports girls' education in Zimbabwe through Hope Worldwide Includes specific strategies for implementing Profit First Features tax strategy and pricing guidance for business owners Susanne's Bio: Susanne Mariga is a CPA and Fractional CFO specializing in high net worth tax strategies for 7 and 8 figure entrepreneurs using the Profit First System.  Susanne is the CEO of The Mariga Group which is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business, the 2021 Profit First Professional Firm Of The Year, and a recipient of the 2011 Houston Minority Supplier Development E-10 Award.  Susanne has been featured in the Houston Business Journal, MBE Magazine, and in a variety of other media outlets. She is the author of Kirkus reviewed and Publisher's Weekly's Editor's Pick, Profit First For Minority Business Enterprises which was written in collaboration with Mike Michalowicz, under the Profit First brand. She is the host of the Profit Talk Podcast.   Before founding her own firm, Susanne worked at Arthur Andersen LLP, as well as one of the Big 4 firms, KPMG.  Combining her industry knowledge with her own experience of growing a small business has allowed Susanne to help her clients design unique, profit-first based business plans that ensure success and long-term financial stability. As a Certified Profit First Professional (PFP) at the Mastery Level, she is passionate about helping entrepreneurs maximize their revenue, grow their business, and save dollars through sound tax strategies.   Find Susanne: Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises Company Website LinkedIn Susanne's Website Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram  

In this special "snack episode" of the Thriving Practice Podcast, Miranda Dorta turns the tables and interviews Tracy Cherpeski about the human side of group leadership. This candid, unscripted conversation explores Tracy's insights on facilitation, psychological safety, and the subtle dynamics that shape group interactions. Tracy shares personal stories and practical wisdom gained from years of experience working with healthcare providers and corporate clients. Episode Highlights: Tracy shares a humbling learning moment from her earlier facilitator days when a communication mishap taught her to prioritize understanding her audience over sticking to her agenda The importance of improv techniques as Tracy's most valuable facilitation tool for creating authentic learning moments How psychological safety feels in the body - the absence of tension and the presence of ease Creating "the least restrictive learning environment" as a cornerstone of effective facilitation Tracy's excitement about the growing emphasis on psychological safety and wellness in professional settings post-COVID Notable Quotes: "Don't be afraid to pause the agenda in order to really understand the people that are your audience." "I think it's really important to come in as a facilitator with the intention of creating the least restrictive learning environment. If we're here to learn, then we need to set the tone for the learning." Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode, we dive into the world of financial clarity and confidence with Virtual CFO Danielle Hendon. From her unexpected journey from opera singer to CPA, to her mission of transforming business owners' relationship with their numbers, Danielle shares valuable insights about what it really means to be in command (not just in control) of your business finances. Key Episode Highlights: - What a fractional CFO does and why it matters for practice owners - The critical difference between being "in control" vs "in command" of your business - Why understanding your numbers is about more than just tracking expenses - How to move from financial anxiety to confidence in your decision-making - Common challenges highly credentialed professionals face when running a business - The importance of having data-backed decisions for business growth - Simple ways to start understanding the story your numbers are telling - Why splitting up your revenue streams can transform your financial clarity - How proper financial support can help prevent burnout Memorable Quote: "Your time is going to make you so much more money in your zone of genius than trying to figure this piece out." Key Takeaway: A budget isn't meant to restrict you - it's a roadmap that guides you toward your business goals. Understanding your numbers doesn't mean giving up control; it means gaining the confidence to make better decisions for your practice's future. Danielle's Bio: Here's a concise professional bio: Danielle is a CPA and Virtual CFO who helps small business owners maximize their profits and personal income. With over a decade of corporate finance experience, she founded 4 Corners CFO after witnessing firsthand how financial expertise could make or break a business. She translates complex financial concepts into actionable strategies, enabling entrepreneurs to make data-driven decisions, establish sustainable growth, and pay themselves appropriately. Through her Breakthrough, Focused, and Comprehensive CFO services, she provides scalable financial guidance - from foundational support for emerging six-figure businesses to full-service accounting and strategic planning for established entrepreneurs. Her mission is helping business owners move from burnout to abundance by understanding and intentionally growing their profits. Find Danielle: Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this special "snack episode" of the Thriving Practice podcast, host Miranda Dorta interviews Tracy Cherpeski about her journey in building a mission-driven company. Tracy shares her unexpected path into coaching, beginning as a necessity during a major life transition with young children, and evolving into a focused healthcare provider coaching practice. The conversation reveals how her initial desire for career flexibility transformed into a larger vision of creating systemic change in healthcare, while offering insights into leading a mission-driven organization. Key Points: Tracy's journey into coaching was unexpected, transitioning from international work and consulting after a major life change The company's evolution from a general coaching practice to a specialized healthcare provider focus The importance of staying committed to your mission, even when it feels "weird" (which Tracy notes comes from the word "supernatural") How the company's vision expanded from seeking work-life flexibility to creating systemic change in healthcare The value of remaining deeply connected to client work while maintaining professional boundaries The importance of fostering team creativity and allowing new perspectives to shape the company's growth Notable Quote: "Self disclosure - if you ever want to learn what you're really made of, start a business." - Tracy Cherpeski Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

Many healthcare providers are excellent clinicians but weren't trained in business fundamentals. In this episode, physical therapy practice consultant Michael Silva shares insights from his journey from frustrated employee to successful practice owner to helping others build sustainable private practices. Drawing from over 25 years of experience, Michael emphasizes how exceptional patient experience and solid business systems create practices worth preserving. Key Takeaways: - Why focusing on hospitality over basic customer service creates lasting patient relationships - The importance of standardized systems and processes for sustainable growth - How to build a practice that's sellable versus one dependent on the owner - Creative exit strategies that keep private practices private - Practical tips for creating positive patient experiences, including the 10/5 rule for patient greetings - Why word-of-mouth marketing through exceptional service beats paid advertising - The value of investing in experienced business guidance early in practice development Notable Quotes: "Business is business. Your clinical way of doing things can be what sets you apart, but if you don't have systems, you're not going to have an efficient business."  "Everyone walks into our office with a 'help me' sign on their head - you're here for them." Michael's Bio: Michael Silva is a healthcare business consultant and founder of the RUNstrong® program, leveraging over 25 years of physical therapy and practice management experience. After building FOUNDATIONperformance Sports Medicine from a basement office to a three-location practice with 24 employees, he successfully sold to Performance Physical Therapy (now Highbar) in 2021.  Drawing from his experience as both practice owner and acquirer, Michael now helps healthcare providers across North America build, grow, and exit their practices successfully. He's a sought-after speaker on topics ranging from running injuries and rehabilitation to creating ideal client experiences in private practice. Find Michael: Michael's Website Company Website LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with Lizette Peña, CPA and fractional CFO at Ascent CFO Solutions, to explore how fractional CFO services can help healthcare practices thrive. With over 30 years of experience, Lizette shares valuable insights on managing the business side of medicine while keeping focus on patient care. Key Discussion Points: The role of a fractional CFO and how it differs from a full-time CFO Why healthcare practices specifically benefit from fractional CFO services Essential KPIs every practice owner should monitor Smart strategies for cash flow management The importance of understanding your practice's payer mix How to balance clinical excellence with business acumen Key Takeaways: Practices can access high-level financial expertise without the full-time executive cost Regular weekly check-ins with a fractional CFO help maintain strategic focus Understanding cancellation and no-show rates is crucial for revenue optimization Strategic vendor payment timing can significantly improve cash flow Data visualization tools can make financial metrics more accessible and actionable Important Metrics to Track: Cancellation and no-show rates Payer mix (Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, self-pay) Claims denial rates Days to payment Cash flow and burn rate Lizette's Bio: Lizette Peña, CPA (she/her) brings over three decades of finance and accounting expertise to her role as a Fractional CFO at Ascent CFO Solutions. Based in Colorado, she partners with mission-driven healthcare organizations to optimize their financial strategies and growth. Driven by her belief in business as a force for good, Lizette serves on the Board of Directors for Kachuwa Impact Fund and advises Intercambio Uniting Communities, combining her financial acumen with her commitment to positive social impact. Find Lizette: Website LinkedIn Instagram Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

Did you know that the moment you opened your practice, you became a CEO? It's true - yet no one ever prepares healthcare providers for this crucial role. In this episode, Tracy explores the powerful mindset shift that occurs when practitioners embrace their identity not just as skilled healthcare providers, but as chief executives of thriving healthcare businesses. Through real stories from practice owners and practical insights from business research, discover how thinking like a CEO can transform both your practice and your relationship with it. Learn why this mindset shift isn't just about better operations today - it's about building lasting value for tomorrow. Episode Highlights: The hidden transition every healthcare provider makes when opening a practice - from practitioner to CEO Why excellent clinical skills alone won't guarantee business success Three critical shifts that helped one physician cut working hours by 30% while increasing revenue Practical examples of what "CEO time" looks like in a healthcare practice The overlooked aspect of practice ownership: building a valuable, salable business How strategic delegation and systems creation can free you to lead rather than just manage Why connecting with other practice owners is crucial for leadership growth Key Insights: Working IN your practice vs. ON your practice: understanding the crucial difference The importance of dedicated CEO time for strategic planning and business development How proper systems and delegation can create a practice that's both more profitable and more enjoyable Why building a salable practice matters, even if you're not planning to sell The power of surrounding yourself with other forward-thinking healthcare leaders Free Resource Mentioned: Download our Practice Owner Energy Audit to identify where your time and energy are going now, and where you might need to make adjustments as you step into your CEO role. What's Next: Join us in the Thriving Practice Community, a new global network for ambitious healthcare practice owners who want to elevate their leadership and business mastery. Learn more at ThrivingPracticeCommunity.com about becoming a founding member of this vibrant community. Tracy's Bio: Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC, is a business consultant and executive coach specializing in healthcare practice leadership. With a background in operations and a passion for growth, she helps practice owners optimize their businesses while mastering leadership and mindset. Through her coaching and consulting programs, Tracy empowers healthcare leaders to build exceptional practices without sacrifice. Based in Chapel Hill, NC, she's committed to helping practices thrive. Connect With Us: Download your Practice Owner Energy Audit Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this candid "snack episode," Miranda Dorta turns the tables and interviews Tracy Cherpeski about transformative moments in her coaching practice. Through unscripted conversations, Tracy shares powerful insights about working with healthcare providers, revealing how vulnerability, cultural awareness, and thoughtful leadership shape successful medical practices. From emergency room physicians transitioning to private practice to international healthcare providers navigating different systems, Tracy's experiences illuminate the common threads that connect all practice owners. Memorable Quote: "We slow down to speed up, we slow down to scale up. And so in those first four to six weeks of our work together, you're probably not gonna like me very much because I'm not going to allow you to move at the speed of light... If we're moving too fast, we miss the details, we miss the scenery, we miss the opportunities." - Tracy Cherpeski Episode Highlights: - The breakthrough moment with an ER physician-turned-practice owner who finally expressed his business uncertainties, highlighting the importance of creating safe spaces for healthcare providers to be vulnerable - How working with an Australian physician practicing in Norway challenged Tracy to abandon her usual framework and develop a more culturally responsive approach to coaching - The consistent pattern Tracy observes across practices: "tough nuts with big hearts" - highly credentialed professionals deeply committed to providing excellent patient care - The value of "slowing down to speed up" in the first 4-6 weeks of client work, allowing practice owners to spot opportunities they might miss when rushing toward goals - Tracy's insights on leadership versus management, and helping practice owners find the delicate balance between control and guidance Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode of Thriving Practice, we welcome back Kyle Kiser, co-founder of ArriveHealth, to discuss the company's remarkable growth and its innovative solutions in healthcare technology. Since our last conversation a little over a year ago, ArriveHealth has doubled its revenue, a testament to the value of their real-time benefit network. Kyle shares how their technology is streamlining the prescription process by providing real-time, patient-specific cost information at the point of care. We explore how this system not only helps patients access more affordable medications but also streamlines the often cumbersome prior authorization process, reducing turnaround times from days to hours. Kyle shares insights on how their solution benefits multiple stakeholders in the healthcare ecosystem, from providers and patients to health plans and pharmacy benefit managers. Join us for an enlightening discussion on the future of digital prescribing, medication management, and how technology is being leveraged to enhance trust between patients and providers. Key Points: ArriveHealth's core offering: Real-time benefit network for e-prescribing workflows Company growth: Doubled in size from a revenue perspective in the past year How ArriveHealth's technology works:    - Provides real-time, patient-specific cost information at the point of prescribing    - Suggests lower-cost alternatives for medications and pharmacies    - Streamlines the prior authorization process Benefits for various stakeholders:    - Providers: Reduced administrative burden, improved workflow efficiency    - Patients: Lower medication costs, improved adherence, better healthcare experience    - Pharmacists: Cleaner scripts, fewer callbacks    - Insurance companies/PBMs: Cost savings, reduced administrative work Integration with major EMR systems (Epic, Cerner, Athena, eClinicalWorks) Partnership with GoodRx for additional cost-saving options Success metrics: Switch rates more than twice the industry average Future developments:    - Automating downstream processes (e.g., prior authorizations)    - AI-driven adherence tool for patient-provider communication ArriveHealth's mission: Reintroducing consumer choice in healthcare and leveraging trust between patients and providers Quotes: "We measure success by how often they accept that. And we're seeing switch rates that are more than twice the industry average." - Kyle Kiser on measuring the impact of ArriveHealth's recommendations "The most powerful leverage point to solve problems in healthcare is the trust that exists between patients and providers." - Kyle Kiser on the importance of trust in healthcare Kyle's Bio: Kyle is Chief Executive officer at Arrive Health, the leader in delivering real-time cost and coverage data to decision-making workflows. In his role, he focuses on helping providers and care teams improve patient access, affordability, and outcomes while reducing administrative burden. By partnering with health systems, health plans, IT vendors, and pharmacy benefit managers, Arrive health enables transparency and better patient care nationwide. Since 2013, Klye has helped grow the company from a vision to a reality, and has been at the forefront of some of the most transformational initiatives in healthcare. In particular, he has focused on projects that enable informed decision-making. His focus on interoperability has allowed partners to improve provider workflows and reduce medication costs for millions of patients. Kyle has helped develop incentive strategies for a country's most innovative employers and led product launches with the nation's largest payers. Prior to Arrive Health, he was a senior leader at Welltok, Catapult Health, and Principal Wellness Company.  Find Kyle: Arrive Health Website LinkedIn Connect With Us: Thriving Practice Community Be a Guest on the Show Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page

In this episode of Thriving Practice, Tracy sits down with Carrie Cook, a seasoned profit strategist who's transforming the financial landscape for healthcare entrepreneurs. With a unique background spanning 30 years in medicine and an MBA in finance, Carrie brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She dives deep into the often-overlooked realm of profit strategy in healthcare practices, offering invaluable insights on how providers can build financially robust businesses without compromising their commitment to patient care.  From the critical importance of paying yourself a market-based wage to the transformative power of separating personal and business finances, Carrie unravels the complexities of financial management in healthcare. She shares a remarkable success story, practical advice on changing financial behaviors, and introduces her 44% profit strategy that's revolutionizing how healthcare professionals approach their finances. Whether you're a solo practitioner or running a growing practice, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you not just survive, but thrive financially while staying true to your mission of care. Key Topics Discussed: Carrie's background: 30 years in medicine to MBA in finance The importance of profit strategy in healthcare practices Paying yourself a market-based wage Separating personal and business finances The 44% profit strategy breakdown Success story: Helping a functional medicine doctor increase revenue from $800k to $1.5M Changing financial behaviors and mindsets The three foundations of business: finance, marketing, and operations Addressing the fear of letting go and delegating tasks The importance of putting yourself first as a business owner Key Takeaways: A profit strategy should include contingency funds, reinvestments, taxes, savings, and retirement Aim for at least 12% profit margin, with a goal of reaching 44% Commingling personal and business funds can hinder business growth Changing financial behaviors is simple but not easy - consistency is key Working with a profit strategist can provide accountability and reinforce positive financial habits Quotes: "If you're not 4% in revenue annually, you're treading water. We need you at least to be at 12% if you're a service provider." - Carrie Cook "If you put yourself first, you have such a capability of taking care of your business after that." - Carrie Cook If you're ready to revive your practice's financials and create a thriving, profitable business, reach out to Carrie Cook through her website or email. Carrie's Bio: Carrie Cook is the founder of a vibrant trio of small business focused on money and women owned business.  She is dedicated to supporting and empowering female business owners in her community. With a passion for fostering connections and helping women maximize both their personal and professional lives, Carrie offers practical insights on financial growth, money mindset shifts, and intentional financial wellbeing. Her work is rooted in the belief that success flourishes when women support one another, share knowledge, and pursue continuous improvement. Whether through inspiring presentations, insightful workshops, or one-on-one guidance, Carrie is committed to helping others make meaningful financial strides in their journey toward a balanced, fulfilling life. Find Carrie: Website Email: carrie.cook@revivefinancials.com Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram  

Does your team spend hours on repetitive tasks that drain their energy and pull them away from patient care? Software development expert William Velasco reveals how the right technology solutions can transform your practice operations without losing the human touch. With nearly two decades of experience helping businesses maximize efficiency, William shares practical insights on how practices can use smart systems to enhance both team satisfaction and patient experience. In this value-packed conversation, we explore: - Why many healthcare professionals get stuck doing repetitive, error-prone tasks that waste their talents - How to identify opportunities for automation in your practice without compromising care quality - The surprising truth about apps and why most practices don't actually need expensive native applications - Real-world examples of how practices have transformed their operations with smart technology - Why collaborative implementation is crucial for successful technology adoption - The importance of choosing solutions that grow with your practice - How self-service technology can improve patient engagement while reducing administrative burden - Key considerations for selecting technology partners who prioritize your practice's success Key Takeaways: - Technology solutions should enable your team to work at their highest level, not replace human interaction - The most successful implementations involve input from all team members, not just leadership - Systems should be designed around your specific workflow, not forced to fit generic templates - Practice owners need mental bandwidth for creativity and growth – automated systems can help create that space Notable Quote: "It's not only a really bad use of talent, but in some circumstances it becomes demoralizing and you find that a team member doesn't really have that joy for working anymore." - William Velasco William's Bio: William is a visionary leader and the driving force behind Opencentric, a software company dedicated to empowering businesses to achieve sustainable growth through tailored digital solutions. With nearly 17 years of experience as its founder, he has been instrumental in crafting systems that streamline operations, eliminate inefficiencies, and allow teams to focus on what they do best.Under William's leadership, Opencentric has delivered impactful projects for high-profile clients, including HM Treasury, The British Council, and The International Baccalaureate, spanning diverse sectors such as government, education and finance. William is passionate about creating solutions that not only enhance operational efficiency but also empower teams to thrive by removing the burden of administrative overhead. His mission is clear: to build systems that foster innovation, productivity, and lasting success for organisations worldwide. Find William: Website LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of functional medicine with Dr. Cima, a chiropractor and functional medicine expert with decades of experience. Dr. Cima shares his journey and insights on becoming a "doctor of the future." Key Topics: The three pillars of health: chemical, physical, and mental-emotional Understanding functional medicine and its holistic approach to wellness The importance of proper nutrition, especially protein intake Simple, actionable steps for improving overall health The concept of "listening to the doctor within" Rethinking traditional approaches to common health issues The role of blood chemistry analysis in functional medicine Balancing hormones and the neuroendocrine axis The impact of the diet industry on health perceptions Highlights: - Dr. Cima explains how functional medicine differs from traditional allopathic approaches - Practical advice on increasing protein intake and its benefits - The importance of having a purpose in life for mental and emotional well-being - Insights on how blood chemistry analysis can reveal health trends before they become problems - Discussion on the misconceptions about fat in diets and its importance for health Quotable Moments: - "Taking care of your health doesn't take time. It gives you a ton of time." - Dr. Cima - "The closest you could ever get to God is to bring health to one's fellow man." - Socrates (paraphrased by Dr. Cima) Action Steps for Better Health: Increase protein intake (consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice) Develop a basic stretching routine Consider getting regular massage work Reflect on and develop your life's purpose Listen to your body's needs ("the doctor within") For Healthcare Providers: - Consider incorporating functional medicine principles into your practice - Explore blood chemistry analysis for a more comprehensive view of patient health - Educate patients on the importance of nutrition and lifestyle in overall health Dr. Cima's Bio: Dr. James Cima is a pioneering chiropractor whose journey into holistic healthcare began with his own healing experience. After suffering from debilitating back pain in his youth, he discovered the transformative power of chiropractic care. This personal experience, combined with his passion for healthcare, led him to pursue his education at Cornell University followed by New York Chiropractic College, where he graduated with honors. Inspired by Thomas Edison's vision of the future of medicine, Dr. Cima has dedicated over four decades to developing comprehensive wellness programs that focus on nutrition, body mechanics, and disease prevention. As an accomplished author and educator, he has trained numerous healthcare professionals and written extensively on holistic health approaches. His expertise spans multiple disciplines, including nutrition, exercise physiology, and neuroendocrinology. Today, Dr. Cima practices alongside his children, Dr. James Paul Cima and Dr. Natalie DeJesse, continuing his mission to promote optimal health through natural methods. A certified Titleist Performance Institute professional, he also helps golfers improve their game by optimizing their body mechanics. When not serving patients or advancing healthcare education, he enjoys spending time with his four children and eight grandchildren. Find Dr. Cima: Website LinkedIn Facebook  Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram  

In this snack episode of the Thriving Practice Podcast, Manager of Operations and PR, Miranda Dorta, turns the microphone around to interview our host, Tracy Cherpeski about the critical topic of private equity in healthcare. Through an unscripted and authentic conversation, Tracy shares valuable insights about the impact of private equity ownership on healthcare delivery, from small family practices to large specialty groups. Drawing from her extensive experience supporting healthcare providers, Tracy breaks down the fundamental differences between private equity and traditional practice ownership models, while offering practical strategies for independent practices to remain competitive in today's evolving healthcare landscape. Memorable Quote: "As a business person, my mantra is if you're not making money, you have an incredibly expensive hobby. So you have to switch hats and be a business strategist and be the CEO." - Tracy Cherpeski Episode Highlights: - Understanding private equity's basic business model in healthcare and how it differs from traditional medical practice ownership - Key strategies for independent medical practices to remain competitive without selling to private equity firms - Alternative ownership models, including cooperative structures and multi-owner practices - The implications of private equity's growth from $5 billion in 2000 to $100 billion by 2018 in healthcare investments - Discussion of the challenges and risks associated with private equity ownership in healthcare delivery - Insights into balancing profitability with quality patient care Looking for a deeper dive into private equity in healthcare? Check out Episode 131 for Tracy's comprehensive analysis of this topic. Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode of Thriving Practice, host Tracy dives into the world of digital marketing for healthcare and wellness practices with web design expert Samantha Mabe, founder of Lemon and the Sea. Samantha shares her wealth of knowledge on creating effective, patient-attracting websites specifically tailored for health practitioners. From the crucial elements of a professional medical website to the nuances of healthcare SEO, this episode is packed with actionable insights.  Discover why your website is more than just an online brochure - it's your practice's digital front door and often the first point of contact for potential patients. Learn how to optimize your site for both search engines and user experience, ensuring it not only attracts visitors but converts them into patients. Whether you're building your first website or looking to revamp your existing online presence, Samantha's expert advice will help you create a digital strategy that aligns with your practice goals and resonates with your target audience. This episode is a must-listen for any healthcare or wellness provider looking to thrive in the digital age. Key Topics Covered: - The importance of a professional website for healthcare and wellness practices - Website accessibility and its legal implications - SEO strategies for healthcare providers - Mobile optimization for medical websites - Balancing aesthetics with functionality in web design Key Takeaways: Your website is your digital front office - it needs to make a great first impression. Start any website refresh by clearly defining your main goal (e.g., booking appointments, growing email list). Ensure your website is accessible to all potential clients. Check how your website looks on different devices, especially mobile. SEO is crucial for helping the right clients find you online. Memorable Quotes: "Do not put your practice name as the headline on your website because very few people are actually searching for the name of your practice." - Samantha Mabe "We want to make sure that the user journey... makes sense for people and that they're following to the end point you want them to get to." - Samantha Mabe Resources Mentioned: - Page Speed Insights (Google's free tool for website analysis) Thank you for listening to Thriving Practice. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Samantha's Bio: Samantha Mabe is a creative director and website designer specializing in custom Squarespace and Kajabi websites for healthcare professionals and wellness entrepreneurs. Through her signature One-Week Website Design process, she helps practitioners like naturopathic doctors, chiropractors, and therapists transform their online presence into powerful marketing tools. A Pittsburgh native with a background in design and architecture, Samantha now calls Richmond, Virginia home, where she balances her creative work with family time alongside her husband and child. Find Samantha: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook TikTok Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice

Dr. Rob Scranton introduces us to the concept of Infinite Banking, a 200-year-old strategy that could revolutionize how practitioners approach wealth building and financial security. Learn how you can become your own banker, recapture expenses, and create a stable financial future. Key Points Discussed: Introduction to the Infinite Banking Concept (IBC) The benefits of creating your own banking system How to recapture expenses for major purchases like cars or practice equipment The historical success of this method among wealthy families Comparing IBC to traditional banking and investment strategies The importance of practitioners being in two businesses: their practice and banking How IBC can provide financial stability and growth Highlights: Dr. Rob explains the concept of Infinite Banking Discussion on the legal aspects and history of whole life insurance policies How practitioners can benefit from creating their own banking system The importance of financial education and support in implementing IBC Memorable Quotes: "I believe everybody should be in two businesses: whatever it is that they do on a daily basis to pay their bills... and I believe they should also be in the banking business." - Dr. Rob Scranton "Nobody ever lost money in a whole life insurance contract in the history of this industry." - Dr. Rob Scranton Visit YourFinancialIQ.org to register for Dr. Rob's free masterclass and learn more about how you can implement the Infinite Banking Concept in your financial strategy. Dr. Scranton's Bio: Dr. Robert Scranton is a former financial executive who teaches people how to use their current debts and expenses to grow their wealth outside of the traditional approaches. With his experience in accounting and finance, as well as his experience as the former chief financial architect of a cutting-edge financial firm, Dr. Robert has been able to help people all over the United States take advantage of the Infinite Banking Concept. He hopes to teach people how to recapture, reuse and recycle their own money over and over again so it stays inside of their family, instead of making other people rich. Find Dr. Rob: Website TikTok Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram  

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of medical coding and revenue cycle management with Sherry Elliott, founder of Elliott Health Information Professionals (EHIP). Sherry shares invaluable insights about how proper medical coding impacts healthcare providers, patients, and the broader healthcare system.   Key Topics Discussed: - The importance of professional medical coding vs. provider-done coding - How incorrect coding can lead to significant revenue loss for healthcare practices - The ripple effects of proper coding on healthcare research and policy - Success stories of helping healthcare providers optimize their revenue - The broader impact of coding on healthcare accessibility and quality Key Highlights: Sherry explains how providers often unknowingly leave money on the table by doing their own coding Discussion of a case study where millions in revenue were being lost due to incorrect coding A success story of helping a pain management practice recover $60,000 in denied claims How medical coding data contributed to COVID-19 research and treatment approvals The importance of accurate coding for future healthcare policy and reimbursement rates Notable Quotes: "Getting paid doesn't mean you're doing it correctly." - Sherry Elliott "The viability of the organization matters not only to you, the provider, but to your whole patient population." - Sherry Elliott Action Steps for Listeners: Review your current coding practices Consider professional coding support for your practice Download the free Top 10 Coding Errors guide Book a consultation call through the website to discuss potential revenue optimization Sherry's Bio: Sherry Elliott is the founder of Elliott Health Information Professionals (EHIP), specializing in medical coding, revenue cycle management, and healthcare compliance. With over 17 years of experience, including work as a CMS contractor, she helps healthcare providers optimize their revenue while maintaining regulatory compliance. Sherry's expertise has contributed to major healthcare research, including published studies on COVID-19 treatments. Her company provides comprehensive coding, auditing, and educational services to healthcare organizations across the country, helping them maximize reimbursement while improving operational efficiency. Find Sherry: Website LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In an era where DEI initiatives are under unprecedented attack, healthcare stands at a critical crossroads. This episode cuts through the political noise to expose a stark reality: dismantling DEI programs in healthcare settings isn't just about politics – it's about survival. Drawing from extensive research and real-world data, we explore how implicit bias directly impacts medical decisions, treatment options, and ultimately, patient survival rates. From cancer treatment disparities to maternal mortality rates, the evidence is clear and devastating. We'll examine why current political pushback against DEI programs poses an immediate threat to patient care, and why healthcare providers – especially private practice owners – have both an opportunity and obligation to stand against this dangerous trend. This isn't just another conversation about diversity – it's about preventing needless deaths and ensuring every patient receives the care they deserve. Episode Overview This episode explores the profound impact of implicit bias in healthcare settings and provides evidence-based insights into why maintaining and strengthening DEI initiatives is crucial for patient survival and care quality. Key Points Discussed The scientific foundation of implicit bias and its early development Real-world impacts of healthcare disparities on patient outcomes Why dismantling DEI programs directly threatens patient care Evidence-based solutions for addressing healthcare inequities Specific actions private practice owners can take to create more equitable healthcare environments Important Statistics Highlighted Implicit bias development begins in children as young as 3-5 years old Over 4.5 million Implicit Association Tests conducted between 1998-2006 demonstrated the pervasiveness of implicit bias Black women face higher mortality rates after breast cancer diagnosis Non-white patients consistently receive fewer interventions Black men are less likely to receive chemotherapy and radiation for prostate cancer Resources Mentioned National Institutes of Health definition of implicit bias Transformative Learning Theory Prejudice habit-breaking approach research MLK's 1966 speech to the Medical Committee for Human Rights Action Steps for Different Audiences For Private Practice Owners: Examine hiring practices and intake procedures Assess marketing materials for inclusive representation Review physical space accessibility and welcoming atmosphere Evaluate sliding scale fee structures For Healthcare Providers: Stand up for equity initiatives Document disparities Advocate for patients Examine personal biases For Patients: Know your rights Document experiences Share stories Support equity-focused healthcare providers Resources for Taking Action Anti-Oppression Leadership Academy https://nadifantastic.com/ Black Women's Maternal Health https://nationalpartnership.org/report/black-womens-maternal-health/ Mandated Implicit Bias Training for Health Professionals—A Step Toward Equity in Health Care https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama-health-forum/fullarticle/2795358 National Institutes of Health Implicit Bias Training Diversity Science Teach-Back Method https://www.ahrq.gov/patient-safety/reports/engage/interventions/teachback.html   Quote of the Episode "Of all forms of inequity, injustice in health care is the most shocking and inhuman." Martin Luther King Jr., 1966 Share This Episode If you found this episode valuable, please share it with your colleagues and healthcare networks. The more we spread awareness about these crucial issues, the more impact we can have on creating equitable healthcare systems. Connect With Us Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this intimate snack episode, Miranda Dorta interviews Tracy Cherpeski about the profound connections between parenthood, leadership, and building lasting organizations. This unscripted conversation offers a candid glimpse into how Tracy approaches both parenting and business leadership. Key moments from their conversation: - Tracy emphasizes that while she sees parallels between parenting and leadership, this doesn't mean infantilizing team members. Instead, she views her role as a guide who shows what's possible while allowing for growth through trial and error - She discusses the challenge of balancing control with letting go, acknowledging that true organizational growth often happens when leaders step back - Tracy shares a powerful insight about asking "just because I could, should I?" - drawing parallels between delegating in business and allowing children to develop independence - She reflects on making ripples of positive impact that extend beyond her immediate influence when discussing legacy - In a touching moment, Tracy becomes emotional discussing what she hopes others learn from her: the power of humility, authenticity, and standing firm despite fear and shame - The conversation concludes with Tracy expressing pride and gratitude for her role as a parent to both her children and step-children, whom she considers a privilege to support Memorable Quotes:  "The way I view my role as a parent is as a guide... to show what's possible and then allow for that to open up and trial and error, grow forward." - Tracy Cherpeski on leadership philosophy "We grow better when I let go. That doesn't in any way mean that I'm abdicating my responsibility for the success of our company, for the success of our clients, and for the success of our members." - Tracy Cherpeski "When we take a stand for something, we can do almost anything... even in the face of fear, even in the face of a lot of unknown." - Tracy Cherpeski Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

A Conversation with Dr. Ben Reinking - The Developing Doctor In this episode, we explore the world of physician coaching with Dr. Ben Reinking, pediatric cardiologist and founder of The Developing Doctor. Key highlights include: Dr. Reinking's personal journey from burnout to discovering the power of coaching The importance of developing "soft skills" like communication and leadership for physicians How small changes can have a big impact on combating burnout and finding joy in medicine   The value of finding trusted colleagues to connect with authentically about work challenges Transitioning from a performance mindset to a growth mindset in medical careers Creating a coaching business as a side venture while maintaining clinical practice The benefits of coaching for both coach and client in the medical field Recognizing early signs of burnout and the importance of self-care for physicians Practical tips for physicians looking to explore coaching or make positive changes This conversation offers valuable insights for physicians looking to enhance their careers, combat burnout, and explore new avenues within medicine. Dr. Reinking's approach emphasizes the power of small changes and developing often-overlooked skills to create more fulfilling medical careers. Dr. Reinking's Bio: Dr. Ben Reinking is a board-certified general pediatrician and pediatric cardiologist with over 20 years of experience in academic medicine. His expertise includes interpreting echocardiograms and caring for children with complex congenital heart disease. Dr. Reinking has held leadership roles such as medical director and program director, and has a passion for patient care and teaching. After experiencing burnout due to increased workload, Dr. Reinking discovered the transformative power of coaching. This experience helped him align with his values, leverage his strengths, and enhance his communication skills. Recognizing coaching's potential to address developmental gaps in medical education, he now shares these valuable insights with students, residents, fellows, and physicians. Find Dr. Ben Reinking: Website The Developing Doctor LinkedIn  Dr. Reinking LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode, Tracy talks with Dan Romance about his unique approach to helping healthcare professionals design prosperity across all areas of their lives. Dan shares insights on balancing personal and professional success, making incremental improvements, and planning for a fulfilling future. Key Topics Discussed: The concept of "prosperity design" and its holistic approach to success The five key areas of life: self, family, business, finances, and future The importance of incremental improvements in achieving goals Balancing the roles of practitioner and business owner (the "player-coach" analogy) Planning for the future beyond just retirement The impact of personal well-being on patient experience Strategies for preventing burnout and maintaining work-life balance Notable Quotes: - "If you can make a 1% improvement per week, by the end of the year, all of your goals can be met and life can be grand." - "We start today on our future." - "If the doctor is doing something in the practice that doesn't require a license to practice medicine, then he's not spending his time doing the right things." Resources Mentioned: - Prosperity Design website: www.prosperitydesign.com - Prosperity Assessment for dental professionals, medical professionals, and business owners We hope you enjoyed this episode of Thriving Practice. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our podcast to help other healthcare professionals discover these valuable insights! Find Dan: Website:  Email: Dan@prosperitydesign.com  Phone/Text: 772-766-4637 Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

Tracy and guest Jenni Tarma dive deep into how healthcare providers can better support patients with osteoporosis through comprehensive, evidence-based care that goes beyond traditional pharmaceutical approaches. Jenni shares how her company, Kaari Prehab, is transforming osteoporosis treatment through digitally-delivered strength training programs that achieve remarkable adherence rates.  We explore why the standard advice of "gentle exercise" isn't enough, how to empower rather than restrict patients, and why strength training is crucial for women's health as they age. This episode is particularly valuable for healthcare providers working with women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who want to offer more comprehensive support for their patients' bone health and overall wellbeing. Episode Highlights: - The meaning behind Kaari Prehab's name ("Kaari" is Finnish for "arc") - How the pandemic transformed their in-person training model into a highly effective digital program - Why traditional "gentle exercise" advice isn't sufficient for maintaining bone density and muscle mass - The importance of proper loading and strength training for women over 50 - How Kaari Prehab achieves 80% program adherence through coaching and community support - The treatment gap in osteoporosis care and why exercise options are often overlooked - Partnership work with the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation and International Osteoporosis Foundation Key Insights: - Exercise is a crucial but often missing component in osteoporosis treatment - The two-year wait between DEXA scans makes it crucial to provide ongoing support and feedback - Digital delivery can actually increase program compliance compared to traditional in-person training - Many active women (including endurance athletes) may still be at risk due to insufficient bone-loading exercise For Healthcare Providers: - How to discuss osteoporosis with patients in an empowering rather than limiting way - Resources available for determining patient suitability for strength training programs - The importance of comprehensive care combining medical treatment with exercise - Recent Medicare billing code changes supporting more personalized, preventative care Notable Quote: "An osteoporosis diagnosis is not the end of anything. It's a call to action and a reality check... there are absolutely things you can do to take control of the situation." - Jenni Tarma Jenni's Bio: Jenni Tarma is the founder and CEO of Kaari Prehab, a company providing specialized strength training services for people with osteoporosis and osteopenia. With multiple advanced certifications in anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics, she has spent over a decade coaching everyone from elite athletes to weekend warriors. A senior teacher in the Yoga Medicine 500hr program where she mentors new yoga teachers and creates continuing education courses, Jenni is also a prolific writer whose work has appeared in publications like Yoga Journal, Healthline, Weight Watchers, and Thrive Global, and she has self-published an ebook on hamstring tendon injuries. Find Jenni: Website Jenni's LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this solo episode, Tracy explores the critical mindset shifts healthcare providers need to make to transform their practices from survival mode to thriving businesses. She introduces the concept of the "practitioner's paradox" - where the very mindset that makes someone an excellent healthcare provider can actually hinder their success as a business owner. Through real-world examples and practical frameworks, Tracy explains how practitioners can transition from working in their business to working on their business, without sacrificing the quality of patient care. Key Concepts: The Practitioner's Paradox: How clinical excellence mindset can limit business growth The hidden costs of burnout on business decision-making The Owner's Mindset Shift: Moving from "how can I do this better?" to "how can this be done better without me?" Practical Tools Introduced: The Energy Audit: A simple weekly tracking system marking activities as energizing (+) or draining (-) The Owner's Hour: Dedicated time for high-level strategic thinking Imperfect Delegation: Learning to accept 80% perfect execution from team members Case Study Highlight: The episode features "Sarah," a neuropsychologist struggling with perfectionism and overwhelming workload, illustrating how mindset shifts can transform both practice management and quality of life. Key Takeaways: Success in healthcare practice has less to do with clinical expertise than business mindset Burnout is not the inevitable price of success The most profitable practices are often led by owners who maintain work-life balance Delegation and systems thinking are crucial for sustainable practice growth Moving from "working harder" to "working smarter" requires intentional mindset shifts Download Your Energy Audit here. Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC, is an executive coach and leadership development expert. Her mission is to unlock the potential for success in every individual and organization she works with. With a background in operations and a passion for driving growth, she approaches each engagement with professionalism and a keen eye for optimizing structures, processes, and productivity to boost profitability. Tracy's coaching, consulting, and training programs are designed to provide a holistic experience, integrating leadership development, executive coaching, and mindset mastery. Her expertise has been sought after by small business owners, industry groups, networking organizations, government agencies, and corporations alike. Originally hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Tracy now calls Chapel Hill, North Carolina, her home. Wherever she goes, her commitment to helping people and organizations reach their full potential remains unwavering. Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this unique "snack" episode, we're turning the tables as Miranda Dorta, Operations and PR Manager, interviews Tracy Cherpeski about her experiences hosting the Thriving Practice Podcast. This candid conversation offers listeners an intimate look at the stories and moments that have shaped our community. Episode Highlights: Tracy shares one of her most memorable interviews with Kara Hartl, an optometrist who served remote communities in Alaska. The touching story of how Troy Medical came to be—named after a patient who inspired an innovative hybrid telehealth model—showcases the profound impact healthcare providers can have in underserved areas. The conversation explores how these interviews have challenged Tracy's assumptions, particularly about healthcare accessibility. She reflects on the privilege of having readily available telehealth options, while many Americans lack basic internet access or smartphones—a stark reminder of the healthcare disparities that still exist in the United States. Tracy reveals a surprising interview moment with Sam Heller, a fractional CFO, whose passion and heart-centered approach to numbers completely defied her expectations. This led to an enlightening discussion about how business ownership transcends mere number-crunching to embrace mindset and clarity of vision. Common Threads: Throughout our many episodes, two unexpected themes have consistently emerged: The widespread frustration with the current insurance system Concerns about private equity in healthcare and its impact on practice owners and patients Behind the Scenes: As we approach our 200th episode milestone and near 6,000 downloads, Tracy shares insights into her interviewing style. She emphasizes the importance of allowing conversations to venture "into the weeds," where some of the most valuable insights often emerge. Her signature closing question—"Is there anything we didn't talk about that you want to make sure our listeners hear?"—has led to countless golden nuggets of wisdom. The episode concludes with Tracy expressing deep gratitude to the podcast's guests who volunteer their time and expertise, maintaining the show's commitment to being a free, accessible resource for all. Connect with us: Visit thrivingpracticecommunity.com to schedule a consultation with Tracy. This special snack episode offers an authentic glimpse into our podcast's mission of supporting healthcare providers while building meaningful connections within our community.   Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode of Thriving Practice, host Tracy sits down with Robin Massey, founder of SkipTheBox. Robin shares her expertise on how healthcare providers can expand their practices into the digital realm, creating additional revenue streams through online courses, self-published books, and virtual workshops. This insightful conversation offers practical strategies for leveraging your medical expertise in the online space, with a focus on starting small, testing ideas, and overcoming technical challenges. - Introduction to Robin Massey and SkipTheBox (00:09) - The importance of creating additional revenue streams for healthcare providers (00:30) - Strategies for self-publishing books in the healthcare field (10:51)   - Benefits of self-publishing vs. traditional publishing   - Key steps in the self-publishing process   - Importance of professional editing and cover design - Developing online courses for healthcare professionals (19:45)   - Starting with a small-scale test run using simple tools   - Gradually scaling up based on audience response   - Addressing potential liability concerns - Creating virtual workshops as a low-risk entry point (22:26) - The value of starting small and gathering data before major investments (23:21) - Overcoming tech overwhelm and the importance of outsourcing (29:06) - Robin's advice on long-term thinking for online business growth (30:33) - Where to find Robin and SkipTheBox online (27:27) Key Takeaways: - Start with simple tools like Google Docs to outline your ideas - Test your concepts with your existing patient base before major investments - Consider outsourcing technical aspects to focus on content creation - Remember: "It's not one day, it's day one" when starting your online journey For more tips on growing your healthcare practice, subscribe to Thriving Practice and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform! Robin's Bio: Robin Massey is the Founder of Skip the Box LLC, supporting business owners in health and wellness fields who are looking to build out online programs and services. With over 15 years of experience in behind-the-scenes support, she loves helping folks get out of the details, on top of their workload, and into their zone of genius. Because who wants to live with their hair always on fire? Project management, execution, and “how can we simplify this?” are Robin's jam, and it delights her to help business owners get out of the weeds so they can focus on the important things that will increase their impact and revenue. Find Robin: Website Instagram  LinkedIn Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram  

In this powerful episode, Dr. Kara Hartl shares how she's revolutionizing rural healthcare through Troy Medical, a pioneering telehealth company born from her experiences as an ophthalmologist in rural Alaska. After witnessing patients struggle with limited access to specialist care, Dr. Hartl developed an innovative hybrid model that combines telemedicine with on-the-ground clinical support to bring world-class specialists directly to underserved communities. From endocrinology to rheumatology, Troy Medical is bridging critical gaps in healthcare access while breathing new life into struggling rural hospitals and transforming patient outcomes across America. KEY HIGHLIGHTS: The stark reality of healthcare access: 74 million Americans (nearly a quarter of the population) live in physician shortage areas, with even greater scarcity of specialists How Troy Medical's unique model works: Combining telehealth specialists with local clinical support staff to provide comprehensive care coordination and patient navigation Core specialties include rheumatology, neurology, endocrinology, dermatology, pulmonology, and cardiology, with plans for expansion Impact on rural hospitals: The model helps keep revenue local through labs, imaging, and infusion services, supporting struggling community hospitals Beyond rural areas: Expanding to serve other underserved communities, including inner-city neighborhoods where transportation and technology barriers create similar access challenges NOTABLE QUOTE: "Until that pill, that medication actually gets into the body and changes that disease state, nothing actually changed. That's what we do - we follow them and walk them through the entire process so that their actual disease state does get mitigated." - Dr. Kara Hartl Dr. Hartl's Bio: Dr. Kara Hartl, educated at Harvard University and UC San Diego Medical School with training at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, has dedicated her career to expanding access to world-class healthcare. After establishing Alaska's most technologically advanced multi-specialty medical center, she founded the international non-profit Gift of Sight and co-created the Prevention of Global Blindness fellowship to combat blindness worldwide. Drawing from her 14 years of experience serving rural Alaska and recognizing the potential of telemedicine during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Hartl launched Troy Medical, an innovative telehealth company that partners with local clinics to deliver specialty care to underserved communities, setting new standards for rural healthcare delivery across America. Find Dr. Hartl: Troy Medical Website LinkedIn Gift of Sight NonProfit Email: cara.hartl@troymed.com Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram  

In this episode of Thriving Practice, host Tracy speaks with Monica Cappelli, founder of Rev Billing Systems. Monica shares her expertise on managing revenue cycles and building thriving healthcare practices. From setting clear visions to implementing effective systems, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for healthcare providers looking to improve their business acumen without compromising patient care. Key Topics Discussed: - The importance of having a clear vision for your practice - Communicating effectively with your team and patients about finances - Implementing systems and training to maximize revenue collection - The benefits of outsourcing certain aspects of practice management - Balancing clinical excellence with business savvy - Creating a positive ripple effect in your practice and community Notable Quotes: "Don't be afraid to be a business person." - Monica Capelli "You can be the nicest doctor in the world and be fair to everybody while taking care of your business as well." - Monica Capelli Bio: Monica Cappelli is a dental practice management expert with over 26 years of experience as a COO in the dental industry. Married to a general practice dentist for 37 years, she brings a unique insider's perspective to her work. Monica specializes in accounts receivable management, helping practices across the USA optimize their billing and collections processes. As an Accounts Receivable Consultant and coach, she offers personalized strategies to streamline revenue cycle operations and maximize financial performance. A sought-after speaker, Monica is known for her engaging style and ability to deliver actionable tips for immediate implementation in dental practices. Find Monica: Website  Facebook  LinkedIn  Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

In this episode of Thriving Practice, host Tracy sits down with Michelle Bomberger, an innovative attorney and entrepreneur who's revolutionizing how small businesses, particularly healthcare practices, approach legal counsel. Michelle, founder of Equinox Business Law Group, shares her unique perspective on why having a strategic legal partner is not just about avoiding trouble, but about empowering practice owners to make confident decisions and seize growth opportunities. This conversation challenges the traditional view of legal services and offers a fresh, proactive approach that could transform how you manage risk and strategy in your healthcare practice. Episode Highlights: The concept of a "risk profile" for healthcare practices and how understanding it can lead to better decision-making Why having a generalist legal approach, similar to a primary care physician, can benefit your practice The importance of regular legal "check-ups" and how they can prevent major issues down the line Michelle's innovative fixed-price model that removes barriers to seeking legal advice The three-pronged framework for evaluating and managing risk: contracts, insurance, and entity structure How a proactive legal strategy can actually drive growth and opportunity in your practice The value of having a legal partner who understands both the healthcare industry and the entrepreneurial mindset Practical tips for finding and building a relationship with the right legal counsel for your practice Why it's okay (and important) for practice owners to admit when they don't know something about the business side of healthcare How the right legal support can empower not just owners but also practice managers to make better decisions Bio: Michelle Bomberger is the Founder and CEO of Equinox Business Law Group, bringing a unique blend of legal expertise and entrepreneurial insight to her role. With dual graduate degrees in law (J.D.) and business (M.B.A.) from Northwestern University, Michelle has a background that spans business consulting, corporate management, and law firm experience. Her approach combines pragmatic legal counsel with a deep understanding of the emotional and practical aspects of business ownership. Michelle's innovative legal service model focuses on providing strategic, proactive guidance to small businesses and entrepreneurs. Her work encompasses a wide range of business law areas, including strategic planning, ownership and governance, transactions, and employment matters. Recognized as one of Puget Sound Business Journal's "40 Under 40" and a King County Executive's Woman Small Business of the Year, Michelle is also actively involved in community service, serving on boards of local non-profits and business organizations. Born in Panama and now based in Seattle, Michelle balances her professional life with family time, cooking, traveling, and reading. Find Michelle: Website Facebook  Twitter  YouTube LinkedIn  Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving

In this episode of Thriving Practice, we dive deep into the world of value-based care with Katherine Evans, President of Novocardia, a division of Cardiovascular Associates of America. Katherine shares her expertise on how value-based care models are transforming cardiovascular healthcare delivery, improving patient outcomes, and enhancing provider experiences. Key Topics Discussed: Understanding value-based care and its importance in modern healthcare The role of technology in streamlining care delivery and reducing provider burnout Implementing comprehensive care models for chronic conditions like heart failure Strategies for improving patient access and experience The importance of interdisciplinary teams in healthcare delivery Balancing fee-for-service and value-based care models The future of healthcare reimbursement and quality metrics Notable Quotes: "Value-based care really sits on a continuum." - Katherine Evans "My goal ultimately is to have providers when they finish their day, it's done." - Katherine Evans "It's really important for all of us to continue to stop and slow down so that we can move faster." - Katherine Evans Takeaways: Value-based care models focus on quality outcomes rather than transactional healthcare, creating win-win scenarios for patients and providers. Technology plays a crucial role in improving care delivery, from remote patient monitoring to AI-assisted triage systems. Effective implementation of value-based care requires a prescriptive model and careful planning. Improving provider experience directly translates to better patient care and outcomes. Katherine's Bio: Katherine Evans is the President of Novocardia, a division of Cardiovascular Associates of America, the largest network of private practice cardiologists in the United States. With over 20 years of experience in cardiology and value-based care, Katherine is at the forefront of transforming cardiovascular care delivery in the country. Find Katherine: Website LinkedIn Facebook Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

Join us for the Season 8 premiere as Tracy unveils exciting changes, including the Overachiever's Intensive with double episodes in January and February. Learn about our new global Thriving Practice Community, meet the team behind the scenes, and discover how our evolving format will deliver more actionable insights for practice owners. Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the show, this episode maps out how we'll support your sustainable growth in 2025. In this episode: Overachiever's Intensive: Double episodes in January/February covering essential topics from legal considerations to revenue cycle management, designed for practice owners ready to accelerate their growth Thriving Practice Community Launch: A global membership platform offering expert business consulting, comprehensive workshops, and executive coaching for healthcare practice owners Meet the Team: Introduction to Miranda (Operations), Ciara (Research), and Aaron (CFO) who make the magic happen behind the scenes New Format: Bi-monthly "snack" episodes featuring unscripted conversations with Miranda, sharing real client success stories and practical insights Growth Strategy: How weekly episodes and peer stories will help you implement sustainable growth strategies in your practice Resources mentioned: ThrivingPracticeCommunity.com Founding member enrollment (closes Feb 14, 2025) Tracy's Bio:  Tracy Cherpeski, MBA, MA, CPSC, is an executive coach and leadership development expert. Her mission is to unlock the potential for success in every individual and organization she works with. With a background in operations and a passion for driving growth, she approaches each engagement with professionalism and a keen eye for optimizing structures, processes, and productivity to boost profitability. Tracy's coaching, consulting, and training programs are designed to provide a holistic experience, integrating leadership development, executive coaching, and mindset mastery. Her expertise has been sought after by small business owners, industry groups, networking organizations, government agencies, and corporations alike. Originally hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Tracy now calls Chapel Hill, North Carolina, her home. Wherever she goes, her commitment to helping people and organizations reach their full potential remains unwavering. Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram

Episode Overview: In this episode, we dive deep into the world of commercial real estate for healthcare providers with expert Colin Carr. Learn how to make informed decisions about your practice location, whether you're leasing, purchasing, or renewing your current lease. Key Points: Introduction to Carr, a nationwide commercial real estate firm specializing in healthcare The importance of representation in real estate transactions Why talking directly to landlords during lease renewals can weaken your position The benefits of exploring multiple options before making real estate decisions Factors to consider when deciding between leasing and purchasing How to evaluate your current lease against market rates The potential savings and benefits of working with a commercial real estate expert Why most healthcare providers don't have to pay for commercial real estate services Notable Quotes: "If you are having conversations with your landlords directly, you have lost your posture to start with." - Colin Carr "You should never be talking to your current landlord on a lease renewal until you've gone to market." - Colin Carr "There's a couple $100,000 that are on the line." - Colin Carr on the financial impact of real estate decisions Actionable Advice: Always go to market and explore multiple options before making real estate decisions Use a professional representative for lease negotiations Consider both leasing and purchasing options, even if you're leaning one way Take advantage of free resources and evaluations offered by commercial real estate firms Resources Mentioned: - Carr website: carr.us - Free lease evaluation tool on Carr website - Resources tab on Carr website with articles, blogs, FAQs, and glossary terms If you're considering a new location, expansion, or lease renewal for your healthcare practice, visit carr.us to find an agent in your area or request a free lease evaluation. Guest Bio:  ​​Colin Carr is the founder and CEO of CARR, the nation's leading provider of commercial real estate services for healthcare tenants and buyers. Every year, thousands of healthcare practices trust CARR to help them achieve the most favorable terms on their lease and purchase negotiations. Colin has been involved in commercial real estate for over two decades and has personally completed over 1,000 transactions.  Find Colin: Website Connect With Us: Be a Guest on the Show Thriving Practice Community Schedule Strategy Session with Tracy Tracy's LinkedIn Business LinkedIn Page Thriving Practice Community Instagram