The Happy Practice

In this episode: What does it take to start a specialty veterinary practice from scratch without burning out? Veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Ben Bergstrom shares how he opened Eye Vets in Nashville in October 2023 — from a real-estate snag to the systems he perfected early and the mission-aligned team he built. We also talk cataract surgery that restores sight, treating elephants up close, meeting...

In This Episode:   We welcome Dr. Thanh Mai—optometrist, educator, speaker, and practice owner based in Orange County, California. Dr. Mai reflects on his personal experience with childhood myopia, how it inspired his career path, and the steps he’s taken to grow from a single cold start into multiple thriving practices. He also shares insights on myopia management, leadership, and expanding throu...

In This Episode:   Join us for a conversation with Dr. Josh Funk, founder of Rehab 2 Perform, a fast-growing physical therapy group serving the Washington, D.C. area with 11+ locations and more than 110 team members. From his early days as an entrepreneur to developing a scalable healthcare model, Dr. Funk offers valuable insights on leadership, building strong culture, and adopting a CEO mindset...

In This Episode: In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jeff Ellis, a board-certified dermatologist and the co-founder of a standout dermatology group just outside New York City. Dr. Ellis walks us through his journey from modest beginnings—literally running a clinic from three laptops—to leading a practice of over 30 team members. You’ll hear how his passion for tech, clear communication, and proc...

In This Episode: What really drives patients to say yes to care? It’s not just treatment plans, pricing, or insurance—it’s people. In this thought-provoking episode, consultant and industry powerhouse Debra Nash joins us to break down the human side of case acceptance. Drawing on over four decades of experience, Debra shares how small changes in communication and mindset can create massive shifts...

In This Episode: We sit down with Dr. Brianna Rhue—optometrist, CEO, and author—to discuss how practitioners can embrace innovation, scale their practices, and adopt a business mindset. Dr. Rhue shares her journey from childhood aspirations to practice ownership, her insights on balancing clinical and business responsibilities, and why collaboration is key to industry growth. We also dive into The...

In This Episode: We sit down with Chris Balbi, a marketing expert who has helped grow Misha Aesthetics from a small med spa to a thriving multi-location practice. Chris shares his unconventional journey from theater to marketing, how he built a strong social media presence, and why email lists matter more than followers. He also breaks down how AI is revolutionizing the aesthetics industry, from l...

In This Episode: We welcome back Genevieve Poppe to discuss how healthcare practices can leverage technology to improve patient care and streamline operations. Together, we explore the challenges of implementing new technology, from overcoming team resistance to ensuring successful adoption, and the critical role it plays in delivering a seamless, patient-centered experience. Genevieve shares prac...

In This Episode: In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Hendrik Lai for another insightful conversation. This time, we dive into the complexities of selling a healthcare practice. Dr. Lai unpacks the emotional, financial, and strategic aspects of preparing for an exit, emphasizing the value of planning from day one. He also shares new insights into the evolving marketplace for practice sales and off...

In This Episode: In this inspiring episode, we chat with Dr. Vernard Hodges and Dr. Terrence Ferguson, the dynamic duo behind Critter Fixers Country Vets. The discussion covers their unique journeys into veterinary medicine, the challenges of starting a practice, and their passion for giving back to the community. From humble beginnings in an 800-square-foot clinic to starring in a successful Nati...

In This Episode: In this episode, we sit down with Tim Dwyer, VP of Growth at Prompt Therapy Solutions. We discuss the unique challenges and growth opportunities in the physical therapy space, touching on topics such as improving practice efficiency, leveraging technology to reduce administrative burdens, and addressing the staffing issues common across healthcare. The conversation also delves int...

In This Episode: In this episode of the Happy Practice , we interview Sonya Dunbar, also known as the Geriatric Tooth Fairy. Sonya shares her powerful origin story of how her grandmother’s experiences in a long-term care facility inspired her to pursue geriatric oral health care. She discusses the importance of mobile dentistry and its role in providing vital services to underserved populations, f...

In This Episode: In this episode of the Happy Practice, we speak with Robin Dimond, CEO and founder of 5th & Cor, about building a people-first business through authenticity, innovation, and strong leadership. Robin shares her journey from owning restaurants to founding a marketing and innovation agency, offering insightful tips on marketing strategies, creating an empowering company culture,...

In This Episode: We sit down with Jordon Comstock, CEO of BoomCloud, to dive deep into the world of healthcare membership programs. The conversation explores how these programs can help practices reduce reliance on insurance, generate recurring revenue, and build stronger patient loyalty. Jordon shares his journey into the dental industry, the benefits of membership programs for both practices and...

In This Episode: We sit down with Debbie Evans, a seasoned dental professional and practice administrator at Wainwright and Wassel DDS in North Carolina. Debbie shares her journey into dentistry, discusses the importance of building a strong team, and reveals the best practices for creating a positive work environment. The conversation dives into team dynamics, the significance of open communicati...

In This Episode: We sit down with Dr. Jenn Tabiza, an optometrist and entrepreneur based in Los Angeles. Dr. Tabiza shares her journey from purchasing an optometry practice to founding a tech company and transitioning into the med spa industry. She discusses her passion for innovation, the importance of understanding patient needs, and effective strategies for marketing and growing a healthcare pr...

In This Episode:   Join us for an inspiring episode of the Happy Practice podcast as we sit down with tech visionary Cameron Hemphill. Cameron, the dynamic founder and CEO of ⁠Growth99⁠⁠⁠ , takes us on a journey from his entrepreneurial beginnings to transforming medical practices with innovative technology. Discover how Cameron is helping practice owners navigate the digital age, enhance patient...

In This Episode: In this episode of the Happy Practice podcast, we welcome Dallin Baker, Weave’s People Experience Manager, to discuss best practices for people management and the importance of creating great work experiences for employees. The conversation covers Dallin’s unique professional journey, the significance of effective onboarding, the impact of personal connections in the workplace, an...

In This Episode: In this episode of the Happy Practice , host Adam Sierra is joined by Dr. Hendrik Lai and Genevieve Poppe to discuss the economic state of healthcare. They explore the resilience of the healthcare industry, the challenges and opportunities for private practices, and best practices for thriving in the current economic climate. The conversation also covers staffing dynamics, effecti...

In This Episode: In this episode of the Happy Practice, we sit down with Dr. Matt Nejad, a leading cosmetic and biomimetic dentist based in Beverly Hills, California. We discuss Dr. Nejad's journey into dentistry, his dedication to precision, and the transformative role of technology and AI in healthcare practices. Dr. Nejad shares his insights on building a successful practice through continu...

In This Episode: In this episode of the Happy Practice Podcast we welcome Steve Dale, a renowned animal behavior consultant. We delve into Steve's extensive career, discussing his early influences, the transition to focusing on animal behavior, and his contributions to the Fear Free movement. The episode explores best practices for veterinary professionals, humane training methods, and the imp...

In This Episode: In this episode of the Happy Practice Podcast, Dr. Chad Fleming, CEO of Wichita Optometry, shares his journey from aspiring eye doctor to successful practice owner. The conversation covers his early ambitions, strategic decisions, the importance of culture, and advice for aspiring healthcare professionals. Learn from his valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of owning...

In This Episode: In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Adam Ramsey, an inspiring leader in optometry, based in Southern Florida. Dr. Ramsey shares his journey from aspiring to a practice owner and how he reimagined patient care. The conversation delves into the nuances of starting and managing a healthcare practice, enhancing patient experience, and the broader impacts of providing compassionate e...

In This Episode: Dr. Kevin Gee, a distinguished optometrist from Houston, joins the conversation to share his journey and insights into the world of optometry. We delve into Dr. Gee's journey from his early days influenced by his pharmacist father, through his experiences in different medical settings, to ultimately opening and running his successful private practice. The discussion covers a w...

In This Episode: In this episode, host Adam Sierra talks with Dr. Kevin Semma, an accomplished optometrist and entrepreneur. Dr. Semma shares his journey from aspiring medical student to establishing his own optometry practice, Maple Eye Care and Eyewear, in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. The discussion revolves around the challenges and triumphs of starting a practice from scratch, the entrepreneuri...