Practice Freedom Leading and Scaling Your Private Healthcare Practice

Mark Henderson Leary

What if you could hang out with healthcare private practice owners (optometrists, plastic surgeons, chiropractors, orthopedists, family practitioners, disease specialists, and more), having rich conversations about their successes and failures, their world-views and habits; then take an insight or two to inspire your own growth? That’s what we do each week on Practice Freedom. Hosted by business coach Mark Henderson Leary, every episode is an in-depth look at how to get the most out of our people, our business, and most of all, ourselves. The goal is to help you make a bigger impact with your business and in your personal life while scaling your private practice to multiple locations and helping as many people as possible.

  1. JAN 8

    174: Standing Out and Growing in the IV Hydration Business | Autumn Piccolo and David Light

    What happens when healthcare providers are thrown into the entrepreneurial deep end? On this episode of Practice Freedom, Autumn Piccolo and David Light from the American IV Association join Mark to unpack the intricate dance between clinical duties and business operations in the burgeoning field of IV hydration services. These industry experts reveal the secrets behind maintaining a competitive edge in a market filled with opportunities and challenges. With the COVID-19 pandemic igniting a surge of entrepreneurial spirit among healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, we explore the appeal and pitfalls of this rapidly evolving sector. Reflecting on the exhilarating journey of 2024, we examine how strategic growth and collaboration have transformed the landscape for IV hydration providers. Autumn and David tapped into new markets by shifting focus from B2C to B2B, bolstering their nationwide reach. Discover how the American IV Association has become pivotal in uniting and supporting these providers, offering guidance and advocacy crucial for navigating the future. From partnering with larger business entities to fostering a supportive community, we highlight the importance of adaptability and strategic planning to thrive in this dynamic industry. As healthcare entrepreneurship continues to evolve, so do the challenges those in the IV hydration space face. We delve into the nuances of differentiating services in a potentially oversaturated market, underscoring the role of licensed practitioners in maintaining high standards and ensuring patient safety. These conversations reveal the entrepreneurial spirit driving innovation and the need for a strong business foundation before venturing into new territories. Tune in for insights that equip healthcare providers to sustain success amidst the ever-shifting currents of the wellness industry. In this episode, you will hear:Insights into the IV hydration industry and its role in healthcare entrepreneurshipExploration of strategic growth from B2C to B2B modelsChallenges and opportunities in building a membership organizationImportance of community support and professional networkingDifferentiation and maintaining high standards in a competitive marketEntrepreneurial spirit and innovation in the wellness industryNavigating regulatory challenges and ensuring quality in IV hydration servicesResources from this episode:American IV website: www.americaniv.comAmerican IV on Facebook: www.facebook.com/americanivInstagram: instagram.com/americanivassocAutumn Piccolo’s email: apiccolo@floridahealthcarelawfirm.comAutumn’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/autumnpiccoloAutumn’s Instagram: instagram.com/AutumnoramaDavid’s email: info@americaniv.comDavid’s LI: www.linkedin.com/in/david-light458157As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    58 min
  2. JAN 1

    173: Healthcare's Future: AI, Cultural Shifts, and Economic Trends | Dr. Jason Lake

    What if AI could transform your healthcare practice overnight? Join Mark as he chats with Dr. Jason Lake, a visionary in the eye care industry, about how cutting-edge technology is reshaping the healthcare landscape, with a particular spotlight on optometry. We tackle the evolving challenges and opportunities that come with fresh perspectives from new graduates, emphasizing the importance of value creation through subspecialties in an ever-changing market. Uncover the complexities of current healthcare trends as we discuss the delicate balance between mandatory and discretionary services and the rising popularity of concierge models amid stagnant insurance reimbursements. Explore the fascinating intersection of business and healthcare with us. We share insights into the role of business acumen in optometry, revealing how a lack of preparation in schools can lead to missed opportunities for financial success. Our discussion digs into the cultural impact of private equity on healthcare practices, scrutinizing how the integration of performance-driven strategies can either enhance or disrupt organizational values. Reflect on the lessons learned from the corporate world with a cautionary tale that underscores the importance of balancing innovation with core services. Mark and Dr. Lake also ponder the future of healthcare innovation, particularly the transformative power of AI and virtual scribing systems. These technologies promise to revolutionize physician-patient interactions and extend career longevity by freeing physicians from administrative burdens. We examine the tension between the preservation of traditional methods and the eagerness to embrace new technology, analyzing how practices can effectively balance the wisdom of experience with youthful innovation. Tune in for a compelling conversation that challenges conventional thinking and offers actionable insights for creating a thriving, culturally rich healthcare practice. In this episode, you will hear:Profitability in eye care influenced by consumer confidence, retail spending, and economic trendsInnovation in optometry with new graduates introducing fresh perspectives and subspecialtiesShift towards concierge healthcare models amid stagnant insurance reimbursementsBalancing work culture in optometry with part-time work trends and the need for more optometristsThe role of AI and virtual scribing in reducing administrative tasks and enhancing patient careChallenges in teaching business acumen and practice management in healthcare educationImpact of private equity on healthcare business culture and profitabilityResources from this episode:PERC Alliance: www.percalliance.com Opti-Port Alliance: www.optiport.com As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    1h 8m
  3. 12/25/2024

    172: Mastering Metrics: The Key to High-Performance Healthcare

    What if a simple shift in focus could transform your healthcare practice into a powerhouse of efficiency and clarity? Inspired by Mark’s own journey from grocery store clerk to advocate for data-driven success, this episode of Practice Freedom explores the power of measurable goals. Join Mark as he unravels the secrets behind assigning key numbers to each team member—a practice rooted in the Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS)—to cut through the chaos and build a culture of accountability and high performance. We tackle the often-overlooked front desk operations, where Mark shares strategies for optimizing scheduling activities. You can enhance efficiency and boost your revenue cycle by zeroing in on key performance indicators such as rescheduling rates and the number of calls made. Discover the importance of coaching staff in effective communication and recognizing them for their valuable contributions. Businesses can strip away inefficiencies by focusing on controllable behaviors, leading to a more satisfied team and happier clients. Learn how to elevate your practice's performance through targeted, measurable success. In this episode, you will hear:Utilizing the Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS) to assign key metrics for enhanced healthcare practice performanceImportance of clear, quantifiable goals to drive accountability and efficiencyStrategies for optimizing front desk operations, including tracking rescheduling rates and effective communicationCoaching staff to focus on controllable behaviors for improved client experiencesPersonal journey insights from Mark that illustrate the power of simplicity in achieving successEncouragement to strip inefficiencies from processes for high-performance culturesRecognizing employee contributions through measurable success indicatorsResources from this episode:https://www.markhendersonleary.com/ As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    15 min
  4. 12/18/2024

    171: The Human Touch in Healthcare Revenue Optimization | Matt Seefeld

    Have you ever wondered why healthcare revenue cycles seem so complex and inefficient? In this episode of Practice Freedom, we unravel healthcare revenue cycle management with the expertise of Matt Seefeld, a seasoned professional with over 25 years in automation and process improvement. Discover insights into how healthcare practices can streamline their operations, from coding and submission to reimbursement, while boosting efficiency and enhancing patient experiences. Matt’s unique perspective draws parallels to other industries, offering fresh ideas to overcome the bureaucratic roadblocks that often hinder progress in healthcare. We explore the financial strains and moral dilemmas providers and patients face, especially under high-deductible health plans. The conversation tackles the ethical considerations of patient engagement strategies, shedding light on how targeted approaches can ensure equitable access to medical services. With real-world examples, we dissect the challenges in adapting to external pressures while emphasizing the need for clear role definitions and effective leadership to foster innovation and success in healthcare administration. Finally, discover the human side of healthcare operations, where employee motivation and work environment are crucial in ensuring timely payment and patient satisfaction. We delve into gamifying work experiences and the importance of aligning roles with employees' capabilities to achieve better outcomes. The episode also ventures into the power of entrepreneurial leadership, drawing on personal stories and the myLifeLink app to highlight the broader impact of aligning with meaningful practices. Whether you're a healthcare professional or simply curious about the industry, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. In this episode, you will hear:Insights from Matt Seefeld on optimizing healthcare revenue cyclesChallenges in healthcare revenue management and administrative inefficienciesImpact of high-deductible health plans on patient payments and bad debtRole of effective leadership and clear role definitions in operational successHuman factors affecting healthcare staff motivation and engagementEthical and financial considerations in patient engagement and access to careThe importance of embracing innovation and entrepreneurial leadership in healthcareResources from this episode:MedEvolve website: www.medevolve.comConnect with Matt Seefeld on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/matt-seefeld-521319As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    1h 8m
  5. 12/11/2024

    170: Vision Meets Execution: Strategies for Healthcare Leaders

    What if your thriving healthcare practice lacks the crucial balance between visionary leadership and efficient management? This episode of Practice Freedom unpacks the vital roles these two aspects play in the success of any healthcare organization. We discuss the stark differences between being a visionary leader who inspires and motivates and a manager who focuses on execution and process. Misunderstanding or neglect can lead to underperformance and dissatisfaction within teams. Join us as we dissect the common pitfalls where practices fail to convert creative visions into actionable strategies or lack the inspiration to unify teams under a common goal. You'll gain insights on cultivating leadership and management skills at all organizational levels, whether in a small entrepreneurial practice or a larger healthcare enterprise. Mark shares his experiences and solutions for overcoming these challenges, helping you to identify whether your practice needs to enhance its management capabilities or develop a stronger leadership vision. Don't miss this chance to elevate your practice, improve team performance, and ultimately, live the balanced life you deserve. In this episode, you will hear:Balancing leadership and management in healthcare practicesDifferences between visionary leadership and execution-focused managementBuilding high-performing teams and driving accountabilityCommon pitfalls when leadership and management skills are lackingThe role of leadership in setting direction and inspiring teamsThe importance of management in execution, clarity, and team successEncouraging autonomy while maintaining a clear vision and objectivesResources from this episode:https://www.markhendersonleary.com/ As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    14 min
  6. 12/04/2024

    169: The Winning Formula: Boosting Morale in Healthcare Practices

    How do you transform a healthcare private practice from a state of burnout to a thriving, motivated team? On this episode of Practice Freedom, Mark uncovers the power of cultivating a winning culture to boost morale and well-being. He highlights thoughtful leadership and the impactful use of systems like the Entrepreneurial Operating SystemⓇ (EOS) to create an environment where progress is celebrated. We explore the essential role of acknowledging small victories in combating burnout and maintaining team motivation. Discover how clear communication, accountability, and compassion in leadership can help navigate the unpredictability of success, ensuring that your team pursues goals and relishes the journey. The focus is on actionable strategies for nurturing a positive practice environment, even during challenging times. A winning culture isn't just about hitting the ultimate target. It's about recognizing minor efforts and using these wins to build momentum. Mark encourages listeners to share their feedback and challenges, advocating for using the right tools to enhance morale. With resources and tools available, Mark offers support to those feeling stuck, aiming to help you break free from obstacles. Tune in for insights emphasizing the importance of clarity and positivity in leadership, setting the stage for sustained motivation and achievement of larger goals. In this episode, you will hear:The importance of celebrating small victories to boost morale and prevent burnout in healthcare practicesExploring how leadership, accountability, and clear communication contribute to a culture of winningUsing systems like the Entrepreneurial Operating SystemⓇ (EOS) to maintain motivation and achieve goalsUnderstanding the link between morale, winning, and culture in creating a successful healthcare environmentStrategies for leaders to sustain motivation and promote continuous improvementEncouraging leaders to define and recognize victories, however small, to maintain team momentumResources available at Practice Freedom to support overcoming obstacles and leading a thriving practiceResources from this episode:www.markhendersonleary.comAs always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    16 min
  7. 11/27/2024

    168: From Burnout to Brilliance: Strategies for Healthcare Leadership | Paul DeChant, MD, MBA

    Imagine transforming a healthcare organization from financial distress to top-tier patient care ratings. On this episode of Practice Freedom, Dr. Paul DeChant shares what he accomplished with the Sutter Gould Medical Foundation. With 25 years of family medicine experience, Dr. DeChant shares his strategies for tackling physician burnout, balancing autonomy with a unified vision, and cultivating a supportive culture within healthcare systems. We explore how empowering healthcare providers can lead to remarkable organizational health and fulfillment in the demanding world of medicine. Mark and Dr. DeChant’s conversation reveals the intricacies of leadership and autonomy, delving into the challenges Dr. DeChant faced when taking the reins of a 300-physician group with a substantial financial deficit. Learn how strategic autonomy and clear purpose helped navigate these challenges, bringing alignment without micromanagement. By prioritizing team collaboration, innovative scheduling, and a focus on empathy, Dr. DeChant illustrates the power of supportive and adaptable leadership. Discover the vital role of organizational values and clarity in purpose, pivotal in overcoming resistance to change and fostering a resilient, engaged workforce. Throughout the episode, we dissect the drivers of burnout and examine how effective servant leadership can be the antidote to stagnation in large healthcare organizations. Dr. DeChant emphasizes fostering an environment of empowerment and adaptability, where clarity and communication reign supreme. As we conclude, we'll guide you on connecting with Dr. DeChant to further explore these groundbreaking insights. Whether through his website, LinkedIn, or other platforms, this conversation begins an ongoing dialogue aimed at revolutionizing healthcare leadership and enhancing the lives of healthcare professionals. In this episode, you will hear:Dr. Paul DeChant's journey from family physician to healthcare leader and co-founder of Organizational Wellbeing SolutionsStrategies for turning a financially struggling medical organization into a top-rated healthcare provider in CaliforniaBalancing physician autonomy with a clear organizational purpose to combat burnout and enhance workplace efficiencyInsights on creating a winning team culture through innovative scheduling and fostering team collaborationAddressing the six drivers of burnout and advocating for environments that promote autonomy and engagementThe role of servant leadership in enhancing organizational resilience and adaptabilityImportance of leadership, humility, and empathy in bridging the gap between frontline healthcare providers and senior leadersResources from this episode:Paul DeChant, MD’s website: www.pauldechantmd.comOrganizational Wellbeing Solutions website: www.organizationalwellbeingsolutions.comEmail Dr. DeChant: paul@pauldechantmd.comDr. DeChant on Facebook: facebook.com/pauldechantmdConnect with Dr. DeChant on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/pauldechantmdFind Dr. DeChant on TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@paul.dechant.md.mbaDr. DeChant’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/pauldechantmd/As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    1 hr
  8. 11/20/2024

    167: Small Wins, Big Impact: Thriving in Life and Leadership

    Struggling to find that elusive balance between your professional ambitions and personal peace? You're not alone. In this episode of Practice Freedom, Mark recounts when a client was caught in the entrepreneur’s constant tug-of-war between the hustle mentality and mindful dreaming. In that moment, Mark came to realize the necessity of small victories, in line with the wisdom of leaders like Jocko Willink and Jordan Peterson. These small wins aren't just morale boosters. They create a ripple effect that propels teams forward because consistent effort yields tangible results. Mark discusses how facing fears and embracing discomfort are pivotal steps in overcoming business challenges. This isn't just about surviving the daily grind and thriving through informed decision-making. There’s a nuance here between deserving versus earning breaks, and those choices impact your leadership journey. You can ensure your path is sustainable by self-reflecting and leaning on a supportive network. Join Mark as we explore practical strategies for balancing hard work and self-awareness, which cultivate both personal and professional growth. In this episode, you will hear:Struggle between professional ambition and personal peace in healthcare private practiceImportance of small victories and their impact on team morale and successFacing fears and embracing discomfort to overcome business challengesDistinguishing between deserving and earning breaks in leadershipSelf-reflection and support networks for sustainable leadershipBalancing hard work with self-awareness for personal and professional growthPractical strategies for achieving a balanced work-life dynamicResources from this episode:www.markhendersonleary.com As always, this is a two-way conversation, and we want your feedback. Let us know if we’re on the right track and you’re getting something from the podcast, or if you have questions or comments on how to make it better. Click here to send Mark a voice memo with your thoughts on each episode. - http://speakpipe.com/practicefreedom Follow and Review:We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    16 min
4.8
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

What if you could hang out with healthcare private practice owners (optometrists, plastic surgeons, chiropractors, orthopedists, family practitioners, disease specialists, and more), having rich conversations about their successes and failures, their world-views and habits; then take an insight or two to inspire your own growth? That’s what we do each week on Practice Freedom. Hosted by business coach Mark Henderson Leary, every episode is an in-depth look at how to get the most out of our people, our business, and most of all, ourselves. The goal is to help you make a bigger impact with your business and in your personal life while scaling your private practice to multiple locations and helping as many people as possible.