Change management expert Riley Smith of Propeller Consulting shares insights to help guide your people smoothly from today to tomorrow.

Change doesn’t have to mean chaos. Whether adding new software or hiring providers, Riley shares why small shifts can feel big, and why clarity, communication, and empathy are the keys to avoiding burnout and resistance. 

Strategies like having champions, keeping messaging aligned, and involving staff early can turn disruption into growth and make change something to embrace, not dread.

GUEST

Riley Smith
Senior Director, People & Change at Propeller

As Senior Director of People Strategy & Change Management at Propeller, Riley leads a practice focused on aligning workforce strategy, organizational design, and enterprise change. His work spans M&A integration, operating model transformation, talent development, and executive advising—grounded in both research and real-world implementation.

Propeller is a leading management consulting firm that helps organizations accelerate transformation and navigate complexity to achieve measurable impact.

Learn more about Propeller Consulting

Connect with Riley on LinkedIn

Guest
Riley Smith, Senior Director, People & Change
Propeller Consulting

Host
Robin Ntoh, VP of Aesthetics
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

Shawna Chrisman, nurse practitioner and founder of Destination Aesthetics, didn’t set out to become a med spa mogul, but that’s exactly what happened. 

Her entrepreneurial journey started with a residential care facility, but a chance encounter with Latisse sparked her interest in aesthetics. Long before med spas were mainstream, Shawna launched Destination Aesthetics. She’s since grown it to five locations and recently sold the business to Advanced MedAesthetics Partners.

Shawna reflects on building her brand and the emotional decision to sell—calling the conversation with her team one of the hardest she’s ever had. She shares what she’d do differently and why honesty from the start matters more than trying to ease the message.

For those looking to scale or sell a med spa, Shawna offers clear advice: know your “why,” stay grounded in your values, and be ready for the emotional side of the journey. 

Plus, she shares the treatment and skincare brand she swears by, and why the future of aesthetics is all about personalization.

About Shawna Chrisman

Shawna is the founder of Destination Aesthetics Medical Spa, which she launched in 2011 and expanded into five locations, becoming a top 10 Allergan account in just a decade. A leader in the aesthetics industry, she has been an AMI trainer for over seven years, a national SkinMedica speaker, and a featured expert on Spark by Allergan Aesthetics. 

Recognized for her business acumen, she was named a "Woman Who Means Business" by the Sacramento Business Journal and one of Sacramento Magazine’s 100 Notable Business Leaders. Shawna is also a managing partner at Advanced MedAesthetics Partners.

Learn more about Destination Aesthetics Medical Spa

Follow Shawna on Instagram @botox.girl

Connect with Shawna on LinkedIn

Guest
Shawna Chrisman, Founder
Destination Aesthetics

Host
Tyler Terry, Director of Sales, MedSpa
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

The trick to reaching the right patients isn’t using every marketing channel. It's finding the right mix of both internal and external channels that fit your personality and stage of practice, balancing risk with certainty.

Looking to the future, Influx Marketing's Max Baybak sees marketing in aesthetics built on diversified, authentic branding and smarter use of technology. Practices that connect with patients on a personal level—whether by channel or message—will stand out.

Learn why a more integrated tech stack is key to retention, how to market toward different age groups, and how AI agents could end up taking on busywork so humans can focus on high-value patient relationships.

In the end, your brand will be the tie-breaker. Strong, authentic branding builds trust, loyalty, and what Max calls “return on brand.”

About Max Baybak

Max Baybak is the co-founder and Chief Growth Officer at Influx Marketing, where he helps aesthetic practices grow with smart, creative strategies. With 17 years in marketing—and more than a decade focused specifically on aesthetics—he’s done it all: from digital ads and SEO to automation, PR, and social media. Max has led successful campaigns for everyone from scrappy startups to Fortune 500s, and he’s passionate about bringing that same level of strategy and results to the aesthetics industry.

Connect with Max on LinkedIn

Learn more about Influx Marketing

Check out the Next Level Practices podcast

Check out The Technology of Beauty Podcast with Dr. Grant Stevens

Guest
Max Baybak, Co-Founder & Chief Growth Officer
Influx Marketing

Host
Tyler Terry, Director of Sales, MedSpa
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

Robin Ntoh and Tyler Terry share insights about the practical ways AI is transforming aesthetics, from streamlining research and sales to cutting hours of admin time.

They share real-life examples of how AI agents improve efficiency and help med spas automate setup tasks, and debate whether tools like scribing actually fit in aesthetics. 

Hear about the growing trend of wellness integration, as more med spas blend aesthetics with peptides, GLP-1s, and IV therapies and learn how personalization and smart automation boost retention and revenue.

Recorded live at the ASPS Annual Meeting in New Orleans.

Hosts
Robin Ntoh, VP of Aesthetics
Nextech

Tyler Terry, Director of Sales, MedSpa
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

Why isn’t CRM a bigger conversation for practices in 2025? Many owners aren’t tracking the right numbers, so they can’t see the gap they’re leaving without one.

Here’s the reality: most med spas convert only 20-30% of patients. With a focused sales strategy and the right CRM, that number can climb to 70-80%, tripling revenue from the same leads.

A CRM puts all your leads—from social, email, website forms, and phone—into one place and shows exactly where they are in the pipeline. Jared explains the two KPIs every practice should measure: conversion from lead to consult and consult to patient.

A CRM is your secret sauce for acquisition, retention, and everything in between, and the glue that holds marketing, sales, and service delivery together. Jared and Robin share why sales are worth the investment, how to track ROI, and how automations free your team to focus on what really matters.

About Jared Rohrer
CEO, Aesthetic Conversion

Jared Rohrer is the CEO of Aesthetic Conversion, a web agency that specializes in serving the medspa and plastic surgery community. With seven years of experience in the industry, Jared has become a recognized thought leader in the field, regularly speaking at conferences such as Beauty Through Science and Aesthetic Next. He is also a Key Opinion Leader for Galderma and Revision Skincare, companies known for their innovative and effective aesthetic products.

Connect with Jared on LinkedIn

Learn more about Aesthetic Conversion

Listen to Aesthetic Conversion’s podcast, The Patient Magnet Podcast

Guest
Jared Rohrer, CEO
Aesthetic Conversion

Host
Robin Ntoh, VP of Aesthetics
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

John Wheeler shares the financial metrics every med spa owner should be tracking, and why the right partnerships are like a “professional marriage.” 

At the heart of Alpha’s strategy is a simple but powerful belief: details matter. From websites to treatment protocols, every touchpoint is crafted to be best-in-class—because in John’s words, “everybody else’s ceiling is our floor.”

Alpha Aesthetics Partners is quickly becoming one of the biggest names in medical aesthetics, growing to 27 locations with plans for much more. CEO John Wheeler credits the company’s success to an unshakable focus on culture, guided by core values like partner obsession and best in class everything.

About John Wheeler

John Wheeler, the Chief Executive Officer of Alpha, is dedicated to partner obsession, making it his top priority and motivation each day. He focuses on ensuring the business operates smoothly and that partners have the best experience possible. In his role, John meets with each partner monthly for a 360-degree check-in, working to build and maintain Alpha's vibrant culture. He strives to nurture the amazing and fun tribe that is Alpha, ensuring a positive and collaborative environment for all.

Learn more about Alpha Aesthetics Partners

Connect with John on LinkedIn

Follow John on Instagram @johnwheeler.alpha

Follow Alpha Aesthetics Partners on Instagram @partnerwithalpha

GuestJohn Wheeler, CEOAlpha Aesthetics Partners

Host

Tyler Terry, Director of Sales, MedSpa
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

Drawing from more than a decade of experience in dermatology, Dr. Rachel Pritzker founded The Derm Collective as a place where clinical care meets aesthetics.

Now that cosmetic treatments are a part of her practice, she’s not just about fillers and lasers. She still treats acne, moles, and rashes—and takes insurance—while delivering a holistic patient experience that cuts through the noise of aesthetic marketing. Her practice is a calm, trusted space where patients of all generations feel guided, not sold to.

Dr. Pritzker shares why culture matters, how growth should be intentional, and why authenticity is the true differentiator in a crowded market. In an industry moving fast, her approach is about being the steady, trustworthy voice patients are looking for.

About Dr. Rachel Pritzker

Dr. Pritzker is a board-certified dermatologist, fellowship trained in cosmetic injectable dermatology and procedural dermatology, and is renowned for her expertise in laser, cosmetic, and dermatologic surgery. She thrives on creating tailored solutions for her patients’ unique dermatological concerns, whether addressing rashes and acne, engaging in skin cancer awareness discussions, or delivering cosmetic injectables and laser treatments. 

Learn more about The Derm Collective North Shore

Follow Dr. Pritzker on Instagram @drrachelpritzker

Follow The Derm Collective on Instagram @thedermcollectivenorthshore

Guest
Rachel Pritzker, MD, Co-Founder, Board-Certified Dermatologist
The Derm Collective North Shore

Host
Robin Ntoh, VP of Aesthetics
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

It’s not marketing’s fault—you’re probably losing most of your opportunities at the front desk. That first call matters, and you need someone who knows how to guide the right patients through.

When your front desk knows your technology, your treatments, and how to handle tough questions, they’re more likely to turn inquiries into appointments.

To set the front desk up for success, Mara Shorr of ACG Practice Partners shares her best tips: fast but effective onboarding, solid scripting, and tools to help your team speak with confidence.

About Mara Shorr

Mara Shorr has 15 years of experience guiding aesthetic practices across toward their strongest operational, administrative, and financial health. She has served as an editorial board member for DERMASCOPE magazine, writes for numerous aesthetic industry publications, and is a respected international speaker and key opinion leader for nearly a dozen aesthetic industry conferences annually, as well as a proud textbook chapter author for The Business of Plastic Surgery: Volume 2.

Learn more about ACG Practice Partners

Follow Mara on Instagram @marashorr

Connect with Mara on LinkedIn

Guest
Mara Shorr, Senior Consultant
ACG Practice Partners

Host
Robin Ntoh, VP of Aesthetics
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

Growth and profitability all starts with having solid financial data. Without it, you’re basically flying blind.

Financial expert Jessica Nunn shares the top five best and worst things aesthetic practices can do when it comes to their bottom line. When you understand your finances, you can actually be profitable instead of just hoping for the best.

Jessica breaks down some of the most common mistakes she sees from her work with hundreds of aesthetic professionals of all sizes and stages of growth. 

About Jessica Nunn

Jessica Nunn founded Maven Financial with a vision to make strategic financial advice accessible to every small business owner. She understands that her clients carry the responsibility of maintaining a business, meeting their goals, paying their employees, paying themselves, and providing for their families. Her job is to make the complex world of revenue, profitability, and key performance indicators clear and simple. 

Learn more about Maven Financial Partners

Follow Maven Financial Partners on Instagram @mavenfinancial

Guest
Jessica Nunn, Founder & CEO
Maven Financial Partners

Host
Robin Ntoh, VP of Aesthetics
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City

As the VP of Clinical Operations at Holden Timeless Beauty, Katie Martin, PA-C wears a lot of hats. While seeing patients, she leads the day-to-day operations of a thriving, multi-location medical spa which requires consistency across locations and experienced staff.

For Katie, safety and compliance always come first, even in a beauty-forward environment. Her mantra is safety first, beauty second. 

When it comes to performance management, Katie’s team keeps a close eye on metrics like total revenue, revenue per hour, and revenue per visit to gauge each provider’s impact.

As the business grew to four locations, she learned the challenges of scaling and standardizing clinical care while making sure they never lost the personal touch. 

About Katie Martin, PA-C

Katie Martin, PA-C is a Physician Associate specializing in medical aesthetics since 2015. Her passion is in education — clients, injectors and industry professionals. Katie is the Vice President of Clinical Operations and an advanced injector at HTB Aesthetics in Southern California. As a GAIN trainer for Galderma, she travels the country to train other injectors in safe techniques with natural results.
 
Connect with Katie on LinkedIn

Follow Katie on Instagram @katie.the.injector

Learn more about Holden Timeless Beauty

GuestKatie Martin, PA-C, Vice President of Clinical OperationsHolden Timeless Beauty

Host
Robin Ntoh, VP of Aesthetics
Nextech

Presented by Nextech, Aesthetically Speaking delves into the world of aesthetic practices, where art meets science, and innovation transforms beauty.

With our team of experts we bring you unparalleled insights gained from years of collaborating with thousands of practices ranging from plastic surgery and dermatology to medical spas. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a budding entrepreneur, this podcast is tailored for you.

Each episode is a deep dive into the trends, challenges, and triumphs that shape the aesthetic landscape. We'll explore the latest advancements in technology, share success stories, and provide invaluable perspectives that empower you to make informed decisions.

Expect candid conversations with industry leaders, trailblazers and visionaries who are redefining the standards of excellence. From innovative treatments to business strategies, we cover it all.

Our mission is to be your go-to resource for staying ahead in this ever-evolving field. So if you're passionate about aesthetics, eager to stay ahead of the curve and determined to elevate your practice, subscribe to the Aesthetically Speaking podcast.

Let's embark on this transformative journey together where beauty meets business.

About Nextech

Industry-leading software for dermatology, medical spas, ophthalmology, orthopedics, and plastic surgery at https://www.nextech.com/ 

Follow Nextech on Instagram @nextechglow

Aesthetically Speaking is a production of The Axis: theaxis.io 

Theme music: I've Had Enough, Snake City