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

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

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

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

In this episode of Ali Off the Record, host Ali Oromchian sits down with Dr. Eric Roman to dive deep into the realities of dental practice management, growth, and leadership.

Dr. Roman shares his personal journey into dentistry, influenced by his family’s experiences, and unpacks the pitfalls dentists face when expanding practices without a clear vision.

He emphasizes why having a proven “recipe” for success and a strong culture is critical to retaining associates and avoiding burnout.The conversation covers everything from associate turnover and unmet expectations to the role of private equity in dentistry—with Eric offering a balanced take on both its challenges and opportunities.

Looking ahead, he envisions a renaissance in dentistry built on community, sustainability, and quality care.

This is a candid, practical discussion packed with advice for doctors who want to grow smarter, lead better, and build practices that thrive long term.

✅ Why practice expansion fails without a clear “recipe” and supportive culture

✅ The real reasons behind high associate turnover—and how to fix them

✅ How ego-driven growth leads to burnout and dissatisfaction

✅ A balanced look at private equity in dentistry: pitfalls and possibilities

✅ The leadership qualities needed to build a performance-driven culture

✅ Why dentistry may be on the verge of a renaissance in quality and community

Resources & Links:🔹

Book a Free Consultation with DMC: https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact

If you’re a doctor who wants to protect your practice, grow with confidence, and avoid costly mistakes, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of Off The Record with Ali.

In this episode of Off The Record with Ali, Ali Oromchian sits down with Travis Slade, CPA, to uncover the financial strategies and pitfalls every doctor needs to know. With years of experience working closely with dentists and healthcare professionals, Travis brings a unique perspective on how small financial decisions can make or break a practice.They dive into everything from understanding your numbers to structuring associate compensation, navigating student loans vs. practice growth investments, and avoiding costly tax mistakes. You’ll also hear about the latest tax regulations, the reality of AI in accounting, and a shocking story about a tax deduction gone wrong.Whether you’re a new associate, a first-time owner, or a seasoned doctor preparing for expansion, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you take control of your finances and set your practice up for long-term success.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why understanding your numbers is the foundation of practice success✅ How to balance student loan repayment with investing in growth✅ Red flags to watch when structuring associate compensation✅ The pros and cons of leasing vs. buying a car for tax purposes✅ How AI may (or may not) transform the world of accounting✅ The real impact of new tax regulations on high-income earners✅ The financial blind spots that hold doctors back from profitabilityResources & Links:🔹 Book a Free Consultation with DMC: https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact🔹 Connect with Travis Slade (CPA at Gouluru): https://gouluru.comChapters:00:00 Travis Slade’s Unique Journey to CPA03:00 The Role of Accounting in Dental Practices06:00 Understanding Numbers: The Doctor’s Dilemma08:56 Student Loans vs. Practice Investment11:48 Structuring Associate Compensation17:53 Financial Red Flags in Expansion23:36 AI in Accounting: Reality Check30:48 Tax & Regulatory Changes Doctors Must Know41:33 Navigating Estimated Taxes46:11 Leasing vs. Buying a Car51:56 Shocking Tax Deductions54:44 Final ThoughtsIf you’re a doctor who wants to protect your practice, grow with confidence, and avoid costly mistakes, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of Off The Record with Ali.

Real estate decisions can make or break a healthcare practice. In this episode of Off the Record with Ali, Ali Oromchian sits down with Brian Mills, a leading voice in healthcare real estate, to unpack what doctors need to know before signing a lease, choosing a location, or building out a new office.Brian shares why mindset matters more than “timing the market,” how to use demographic insights to your advantage, and the real numbers behind lease negotiations—from tenant improvements to free rent periods. You’ll also hear about the hidden risks in “standard leases,” how to handle permitting delays, and why building the right team (broker, attorney, CPA) is crucial for protecting your long-term success.Whether you’re a dentist planning your first startup, a physician expanding into a second location, or a doctor weighing the pros and cons of acquisitions vs. new builds, this conversation is packed with practical strategies you can put to work immediately.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to shift your mindset and seize real estate opportunities without overthinking market timingThe role of demographic data in driving patient growth and location selectionKey lease terms every doctor must negotiate to avoid costly mistakesWhy startups can sometimes carry less risk than acquisitions when done rightThe importance of assembling a trusted team to guide your real estate journeyAlso live on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Want legal guidance for your practice transition or lease review? Visit us at www.dmcounsel.com/contact to connect with our team

In Episode 5 of Off The Record w/ Ali, Ali Oromchian sits down with practice management consultant Michael Dinsio to uncover the realities of dental practice ownership. From the misconceptions many doctors face when starting out to the critical role of vision, location, and lease strategies, this conversation is packed with honest insights and practical advice.Ali and Michael explore:Why ownership requires more grit than most expectCommon mistakes doctors make in the startup phaseHow to align your vision with your financial and lifestyle goalsThe impact of location and lease negotiations on long-term successWhen partnerships work—and when they cause problemsHow to manage overwhelm and set realistic benchmarksWhether you’re dreaming about your first practice or already in the trenches of ownership, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and actionable steps to move forward.📌 Connect with us:👉 Reach out to Ali and the Dental & Medical Counsel team: https://www.dmcounsel.com/contact👉 Reach out to Michael Dinsio at Next Level Consultants: https://nxlevelconsultants.com/

In this conversation, Gary Salman, CEO of Black Talon Security, shares his journey into the world of cybersecurity, discussing the evolution of threats, the importance of training, and the distinction between IT and cybersecurity. He emphasizes the need for visibility and proactive measures in protecting healthcare practices from cyber threats. The discussion also covers common pitfalls, the role of technology, and the importance of investing in cybersecurity solutions. Gary provides practical advice for healthcare professionals on how to address vendor security concerns and real-life scenarios that highlight the risks involved.TakeawaysGary's journey into cybersecurity began with a need for software in his father's dental practice.Cybersecurity threats have evolved significantly over the years, impacting small practices as well.Hackers often target small practices as they are seen as easy targets.Training staff on cybersecurity is essential to mitigate risks.There is a clear distinction between IT services and cybersecurity services.Visibility into security measures is crucial for healthcare organizations.Investing in cybersecurity solutions is a cost-effective way to protect practices.Vendors must be transparent about data handling and security measures.Real-life scenarios illustrate the importance of vigilance in cybersecurity.Healthcare professionals must take proactive steps to secure their practices.Reach out for a complimentary consultation with us to kickstart your journey: https://www.dmcounsel.com/contactSchedule a consultation with Gary and his team: https://www.blacktalonsecurity.com/de... Keywordscybersecurity, healthcare, ransomware, data protection, IT security, small practices, training, technology, vendor security, investment

In this episode, Ali Oromchian and Dr. Santosh Rohira discuss the complexities of insurance credentialing in dentistry, particularly focusing on Delta Dental's evolving policies.

Dr. Rohira shares his journey from being a foreign-trained dentist to establishing BeanBite, a consulting firm that assists dental practices with insurance-related challenges.

The conversation covers essential topics such as the implications of transitioning practices, billing compliance, and the importance of understanding insurance contracts.

Dr. Rohira emphasizes the need for dental professionals to seek expert advice when navigating these issues and advocates for maintaining funding for dental care programs in California.TakeawaysThe journey of a foreign-trained dentist can lead to unique opportunities.Understanding insurance credentialing is crucial for dental practices.Delta Dental is phasing out the Premier Plan, affecting many providers.Billing under the correct provider is essential for compliance.Transitioning to insurance independence requires careful planning.Legal representation is vital when terminating insurance contracts.Communication with patients about insurance changes is key.Outsourcing non-core functions can improve practice efficiency.Maintaining accurate provider directories is essential to avoid audits.Advocacy for dental funding is important for community health.Keywordsdentistry, insurance, credentialing, Delta Dental, dental practice, healthcare, compliance, outsourcing, California, dental providers