Off The Record with Ali Oromchian

Ali Oromchian, J.D., LL.M.

Off The Record with Ali is where healthcare meets real talk. Join attorney Ali Oromchian as he sits down with top voices in dentistry and business to explore practice ownership, leadership, growth, and everything in between. No fluff. Just real conversations to help you build, protect, and thrive in your practice. New episodes released regularly. Subscribe and stay in the know.

  1. MAY 13

    Off The Record w/ Ali Ep. 16 – Dental Insurance, PPOs & the CDA Perspective ft. Lisa Byers

    In this episode of Off The Record w/ Ali, Ali sits down with Lisa Byers, Dental Benefits Analyst with the California Dental Association (CDA), to discuss one of the most challenging and important areas of running a dental practice today — navigating dental insurance, PPO plans, and reimbursement pressures. With more than 20 years of experience in dental billing, collections, practice management, and insurance-related issues, Lisa works closely with dentists throughout California to help them better understand third-party payers, fee schedules, claims management, and the operational realities that impact practice profitability. Together, Ali and Lisa break down how practice owners should evaluate PPO participation, what dentists often misunderstand about fee schedules and negotiations, and how offices can better manage claims, denials, and insurance-related administrative burdens. The conversation also explores practice transition considerations, common mistakes owners make when evaluating insurance participation, and the growing role technology and AI may play in the future of dental insurance. The episode also highlights the important role the California Dental Association plays in supporting dentists and advocating for the profession across California. Whether you are evaluating PPO participation, struggling with reimbursement issues, or looking to improve the operational side of your practice, this episode provides practical insight every practice owner should hear. What You’ll Learn: • How to evaluate whether a PPO plan is truly profitable • What dentists should understand about fee schedules and reimbursements • Common insurance and claims management mistakes practices make • Strategies for handling denials and administrative challenges • What practice owners should know before changing insurance participation • How insurance issues impact practice profitability and operations • Considerations surrounding practice transitions and insurance relationships • The evolving role of AI and technology in dental insurance🎧 This episode is now live on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.I f you are a dentist navigating insurance challenges, evaluating your practice strategy, or planning for long-term growth and want guidance on legal, HR, or strategic considerations, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Ali:👉 https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    52 min
  2. APR 7

    What Sellers Get Wrong About Practice Transitions ft. Phill Hoover

    In this episode of Off The Record w/ Ali, Ali sits down with practice transition advisor Phill Hoover to discuss one of the most common and costly mistakes practice owners make when preparing to sell — waiting too long to start planning. Phill brings years of experience working with sellers through the transition process, helping them navigate the financial, operational, and timing decisions that directly impact the outcome of a sale. Together, he and Ali break down why many doctors approach transitions too late, how that limits their options, and what should be happening years before a practice ever goes to market. The conversation also explores the importance of working closely with financial representatives, understanding the full timeline of a transition, and positioning a practice in the best possible light to maximize value. Phill shares practical insight into how early planning can prevent unnecessary stress, improve deal outcomes, and create a smoother path into retirement or the next phase of ownership. Whether you are several years away from selling or just starting to think about your exit strategy, this episode provides a clear look at what it takes to prepare properly and avoid common pitfalls. What You’ll Learn: • Why waiting too long is the biggest mistake sellers make • Why a 2 to 5 year plan is critical for a successful transition • How early planning impacts valuation and deal structure • The role financial advisors play in preparing for a sale • How to position your practice to attract strong buyers • Why communication with your advisory team is essential • Common pitfalls that can delay or derail a transaction • What sellers should be doing today to prepare for the future 🎧 This episode is now live on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.If you are a practice owner thinking about selling, planning your transition, or want guidance on legal, HR, or strategic considerations, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Ali:👉 https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    41 min
  3. MAR 12

    Off The Record w/ Ali Ep. 14 – The Numbers Behind a Successful Dental Practice ft. Art Wiederman

    In this episode of Off The Record w/ Ali, Ali sits down with dental CPA and advisor Art Wiederman to discuss one of the biggest financial challenges facing dentists today — declining insurance reimbursements and the growing pressure they place on practice profitability.Art brings decades of experience advising dentists on the financial side of practice ownership. Together, he and Ali explore how the traditional dental practice business model is being strained by rising overhead, increasing labor costs, and reimbursement structures that have not kept pace with the realities of running a modern practice.The conversation also examines how these pressures are reshaping the way dentists think about pricing, insurance participation, and long-term financial sustainability. Art shares practical insight on the financial metrics practice owners should be watching, how insurance reimbursement trends impact strategic decisions, and why understanding the business side of dentistry is more important than ever.Whether you are an established practice owner or a dentist planning your long-term strategy, this episode provides a candid discussion about the financial realities shaping the future of dental practices.What You’ll Learn:• How declining insurance reimbursements are impacting dental practice profitability• Why the traditional dental practice business model is under increasing pressure• The financial challenges created by rising labor, rent, and operational costs• Why many dentists feel “stuck” when it comes to pricing and insurance participation• Key financial considerations every dentist should understand about running a sustainable practice• How collaboration with legal and financial advisors can help dentists navigate these challenges🎧 This episode is now live on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.If you are a dentist evaluating practice ownership, navigating insurance challenges, or planning your long-term financial strategy and want guidance on legal, HR, or strategic considerations, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Ali:👉 https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    53 min
  4. FEB 19

    Off The Record w/ Ali Ep. 13 – Optometry Acquisitions, Private Equity & Cold Starts ft. Erich Mattei

    In this episode of Off The Record, Ali sits down with optometry consultant Erich H. Mattei to break down what doctors need to understand before acquiring, starting, or growing an optometry practice. Erich shares insight from years of advising optometrists on practice acquisitions, cold starts, and operational strategy. Together, they discuss how private equity has impacted valuations, what buyers should focus on during due diligence, and why understanding financial benchmarks and patient flow is critical before making a major investment. The conversation also explores the strategic differences between buying an existing practice and starting from scratch, how location decisions should align with long-term vision, and why mission, vision, and purpose are foundational to building a successful and sustainable practice. Whether you are evaluating your first acquisition, considering a cold start, or looking to grow your practice strategically, this episode provides practical insight into the financial, operational, and advisory decisions that shape long-term success. What You’ll Learn: • How private equity is influencing optometry practice valuations• The key financial and operational metrics every buyer must evaluate• Cold start vs. acquisition and how to decide which path is right• Why mission, vision, and purpose are essential for practice success• How to build a strong business plan before investing in growth• The operational changes required after acquiring a practice• Why choosing the right advisor can impact your long-term success• Strategic considerations when selecting practice location 🎧 This episode is now live on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. If you are an optometrist exploring practice ownership, evaluating an acquisition, or planning your next step and want guidance on legal, HR, or strategic considerations, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Ali:👉 https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    54 min
  5. JAN 8

    Off The Record w/ Ali Ep. 12 – Legacy, Ownership, and the Future of Optometry ft. Dr. Aaron Werner

    In this episode of Off The Record, Ali sits down with Dr. Aaron Werner to discuss the evolution of optometry, the challenges of carrying forward a family legacy, and what it really takes to succeed in today’s practice environment. Dr. Werner shares his perspective on how optometry has changed over the years, from shifting patient expectations to increasing business and operational pressures facing practice owners. Together, they explore the realities of practice ownership, the importance of understanding the business side of healthcare, and how community support and professional development can shape long-term success. The conversation also dives into balancing work and family life, managing staff dynamics, and addressing criticism and misconceptions around group and modern practice models. Dr. Werner offers candid insight into the introspection required before pursuing ownership and why adaptability and continuous learning are essential for the future of the profession. Whether you are early in your career, considering practice ownership, or navigating growth within an existing practice, this episode provides thoughtful perspective on where optometry is headed and how doctors can prepare for what’s next. What You’ll Learn: • How optometry has evolved and where the profession is headed • The realities of managing and sustaining a family practice legacy • How changing patient expectations impact modern practices • Why understanding the business side of optometry is critical • The role of community and mentorship in professional growth • Strategies for balancing ownership, leadership, and family life • Key considerations before committing to practice ownership • Why adaptability and ongoing education are essential for success 🎧 This episode is now live on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts. If you are a doctor exploring practice ownership, navigating growth, or planning for the future and want guidance on legal, HR, or strategic considerations, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Ali: 👉 https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    59 min
  6. 12/19/2025

    Off The Record w/ Ali Ep. 11 – How Dental Design Shapes the Patient Experience ft. Greg Marinelli

    In this episode of Off The Record, Ali sits down with Greg Marinelli, a leading expert in dental and healthcare office design, to explore how modern dental spaces are evolving — and why thoughtful design has a measurable impact on patient experience, workflow, and long-term practice success.Greg shares how dental office design has shifted from traditional layouts to warm, patient-centered environments, and why understanding patient flow, functionality, and team experience is critical before any buildout or remodel. They discuss the emotional side of the design process, the importance of involving key decision-makers early, and how social media and aesthetic trends are reshaping what patients expect when they walk into a practice.From avoiding common design mistakes to balancing budget with quality and comfort, this conversation gives doctors practical guidance for creating spaces that feel good, function well, and support practice growth.Whether you’re planning a startup, renovating a second-generation space, or modernizing an existing office, this episode offers insights every doctor should consider before making major design decisions.What You’ll Learn:• How office design influences patient comfort and perception• Why early involvement in the design process prevents costly mistakes• The role of patient flow in creating efficient, functional spaces• Modern design trends shaping dental and healthcare environments• The evolution of waiting rooms into patient lounges• How to balance budget, materials, and long-term ROI• Common design mistakes that hurt workflow and experience• How good design becomes a subtle marketing and retention tool🎧 This episode is now live on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts.If you are a doctor planning a startup, remodel, or expansion and want guidance on leases, contracts, or practice planning, you can schedule a complimentary consultation with Ali:👉 https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    57 min
  7. 11/24/2025

    Off The Record w/ Ali Ep. 10 – The Evolving Dental Equipment Landscape ft. Kevin McBee

    In this episode of Off The Record with Ali, Ali Oromchian sits down with Kevin McBee, a leading expert in dental design and equipment planning, to walk through the realities of launching a successful dental startup. From choosing the right space to designing a functional layout, budgeting for construction, and avoiding costly equipment mistakes, Kevin breaks down what doctors need to know before they start building their dream practice. This conversation highlights the importance of a client-centric approach, understanding your practice vision, collaborating closely with brokers, and using tools like test-fit design plans to bring the space to life. Kevin also dives into technology integration, storage solutions, construction costs, and why renovations aren’t always the cheaper option. Whether you’re opening your first practice or upgrading your current space, this episode delivers practical insights that will help you avoid expensive missteps and build a practice that truly supports your long-term goals. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How a client-centric approach drives better startup decisions ✅ Why defining your practice vision early simplifies every step of the buildout ✅ How brokers, designers, and equipment reps work together during site selection✅ Why test fit design is essential for a functional, efficient layout✅ The biggest mistakes doctors make with dental office storage✅ Smart ways to incorporate technology for smoother operations and patient communication ✅ How to budget realistically for construction, equipment, and renovations ✅ Why renovations can cost more than new builds ✅ How to avoid the common pitfalls of equipment upgrades ✅ Why having a trustworthy equipment specialist can make or break your startup dental startup, client-centric approach, practice vision, test fit design, dental technology, budgeting, renovations, equipment upgrades, dental design, construction costs 🎧 Also available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts 🔹 Want guidance on your own startup or transition? Book a complimentary consultation with our team: https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    57 min
  8. 11/05/2025

    Off The Record w/ Ali Ep. 9 – Unlocking Tax Savings with Cost Segregation ft. Wes Mabry

    In this episode of Off The Record with Ali, Ali Oromchian sits down with Wes Mabry, a cost segregation specialist, to uncover how property owners can legally accelerate depreciation and unlock significant tax savings on their real estate investments.Whether you’re a doctor who owns your practice building, an investor expanding your real estate portfolio, or simply looking for smarter tax strategies, this conversation breaks down how cost segregation can dramatically improve cash flow, reduce tax liability, and build long-term wealth.Ali and Wes explain what a cost segregation study really is, how it’s used across different types of properties, and why it’s one of the most misunderstood tax strategies available. They also explore when to conduct a study, how it applies to leased spaces, and what the IRS actually says about it—all while addressing misconceptions that it’s a “loophole for the wealthy.”What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How cost segregation accelerates depreciation and reduces taxes✅ When to conduct a cost segregation study for maximum impact✅ How leased and owner-occupied properties can both benefit✅ Common misconceptions and IRS audit considerations✅ How to reinvest tax savings for long-term wealth building✅ Why cost segregation is a core part of strategic tax planningKeywords: cost segregation, tax savings, real estate, depreciation, IRS, property investment, wealth building, tax planning, CPA advice, investment strategies🔹 Want to learn how strategic legal and tax planning can protect your practice?Schedule a complimentary consultation with our team here: https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

    42 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Off The Record with Ali is where healthcare meets real talk. Join attorney Ali Oromchian as he sits down with top voices in dentistry and business to explore practice ownership, leadership, growth, and everything in between. No fluff. Just real conversations to help you build, protect, and thrive in your practice. New episodes released regularly. Subscribe and stay in the know.