Just Say No To The DSO

In this conversation, Nate and Dr. Joe Feller discuss the complexities and challenges faced by orthodontists when considering selling their practices to DSOs. Dr. Feller shares his personal journey in orthodontics, his experiences with DSOs, and the reasons he ultimately decided against selling his practice. The discussion highlights the emotional and financial stakes involved in such decisions, the misleading nature of DSO promises, and the consequences faced by colleagues who chose to sell. The conversation serves as a cautionary tale for practitioners contemplating similar paths. In this conversation, Nate and Dr Feller discuss the implications of private equity in dental practices, particularly focusing on the challenges and stressors faced by orthodontists who sell their practices to DSOs. They explore the false promises of wealth and ease, the reality of corporate meddling, and the importance of maintaining ownership and control over one's practice. Dr. Feller shares insights on the emotional toll of selling a practice and the value of community and support among private practitioners. The discussion culminates in a call to prioritize patient care and ethical practices over financial gain.

In a conversation between two of the most soothing voices on the internet, Bob Spiel interviews Jonathan Martin, a CPA with extensive experience in dental transitions. They discuss the complexities of selling dental practices, the myths surrounding DSOs, and the importance of financial planning for dentists. Jonathan emphasizes that many dentists are not adequately prepared for retirement and often make significant financial decisions without proper representation. The discussion highlights the need for careful planning and consideration of all options before deciding to sell a practice, particularly to a DSO.

In this conversation, Bob Affleck shares his extensive experience in the dental industry, discussing the implications of selling dental practices to DSOs. He highlights the challenges and regrets many dentists face after selling, particularly regarding autonomy and financial expectations. The discussion also covers the importance of leadership and business acumen for young dentists preparing them for practice ownership. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the current state of the dental industry and the future of practice ownership.

Nate sits down with Dr. Blake Maxfield on this amazing interview with a practicing doctor who went through the entire courting and recruitment process where he almost signed the dotted line for a DSO to purchase his practice. At the last minute, something didn't feel right and he backed out. Because he listened to his gut (and his wife) things are infinitely better in his life and current practice is booming.

In this episode, hosts Bob and Nate delve into the myths surrounding DSOs, particularly focusing on the allure of DSO equity. They discuss the reality of ownership structures, the dilution of shares, and the potential pitfalls of believing in inflated equity promises. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining control over one's practice and making informed decisions about practice transitions.

In this conversation, Dr. Maksim Montatskiy sits down with Bob and Nate to discuss the complexities of partnerships, particularly focusing on the value and decision-making dynamics involved. He expresses concerns about the nature of partnerships where he feels more like a paying associate than an equal partner, questioning the benefits and decision-making power he holds within these collaborations.

The conversation explores the myth surrounding the belief that dental practices are too large to sell to private buyers. It delves into the origins of this misconception and its impact on the dental community, emphasizing that size should not deter practice owners from considering private buyers.

In this conversation, Nate speaks with Dan and Aaron Lewis about the complexities of dental practice transitions, particularly focusing on the implications of selling to Dental Service Organizations (DSOs). They discuss the emotional aspects of practice transitions, the financial realities of selling to DSOs versus maintaining private practice, and the importance of relationships in the dental industry. The Lewis family emphasizes the need for education and awareness among dentists regarding their options and the potential pitfalls of DSO partnerships.

Bob and Nate are back to discuss the common misconception that DSOs pay more for dental practices than private buyers and they are bringing receipts. They delve into the concept of EBITDA, explaining its significance in practice valuation and how it impacts the financial outcomes for practice owners. Through a hypothetical example, they illustrate the true costs associated with selling to a DSO, revealing that many dentists may end up paying more than they realize. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the financial implications of selling a practice and encourages dentists to maintain control over their practices.

In this episode of 'Just Say No to the DSO', hosts Bob and Nate discuss the complexities of transitioning dental practices, particularly for those with multiple locations. They address listener questions about ownership options, financing, and the importance of goodwill in practice valuation. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear pathways to ownership and the potential pitfalls of seller financing, while also exploring strategies for divesting practices effectively.