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Transforming a medical practice from a startup to a thriving, scalable business requires far more than clinical excellence. In this revealing conversation with physician assistant Brian Fretwell, we uncover the missing piece that prevents many direct primary care practices from reaching their full potential: a comprehensive operating system.

Brian shares the journey that led him to create the DPC Momentum Model after hitting his own plateau and experiencing burnout despite escaping the traditional fee-for-service system. His framework addresses the fundamental mindset shift required to evolve from provider to CEO—moving from compliance to leadership, perfectionism to progress, and from delivering care to building systems that deliver care.

At the heart of Brian's model is the Clarity Compass, a powerful tool that serves as your strategic foundation and decision-making filter. This document connects your purpose, values, and vision to concrete 90-day milestones that drive consistent execution. We explore how the momentum framework creates focus through impact metrics, mission alignment meetings, and an opportunity board that transforms problems into growth catalysts.

Perhaps most fascinating is Brian's perspective on scaling with additional providers. Rather than the typical "just do what I do" approach that creates bottlenecks, his model establishes clear guardrails based on core values while allowing flexibility for individual strengths. The result? A culture that naturally attracts aligned team members and patients while building internal leadership pathways.

For those feeling overwhelmed or plateaued in their DPC journey, Brian offers surprisingly simple yet profound advice: invest in yourself through daily reading and thinking time, then leverage your existing network by simply asking for what you want. With his guidance, you can transform your practice from surviving to truly thriving.

Ready to stop flying blind and build a practice with true momentum? Listen now and discover how to create the clarity, accountability, and financial sustainability your DPC deserves.

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Imagine trading the stress of seven-minute patient visits and two hours of nightly charting for a practice where you can truly connect with patients in a space that smells like apples instead of alcohol. That's exactly what Katlyn Agosta did when she founded Papaya Primary Care in Valrico, Florida—a journey she shares with remarkable candor in this captivating episode.

As a type 1 diabetic since age 15, Katlyn brings unique expertise and passion to her work with patients facing metabolic challenges. Her path from inpatient diabetes educator to burnt-out corporate healthcare provider to DPC owner offers a blueprint for nurse practitioners contemplating similar transitions. With refreshing honesty, she reveals the practical realities of starting from scratch—from finding affordable equipment on Facebook Marketplace to the emotional rollercoaster of building a patient panel that currently stands at 17 members.

What makes this conversation particularly valuable is that we're catching Katlyn at the beginning of her DPC journey, when every detail of getting started remains fresh. She shares specific pricing strategies ($75/month with a focus on metabolic syndrome patients), marketing approaches that actually work (local Facebook groups outperforming paid advertising), and practical considerations like EMR selection (she chose Hint) and finding clinical space (she rents 125 square feet within an aesthetics practice).

Beyond the business aspects, Katlyn's story illuminates the profound personal transformation possible through DPC. "I'm just now in a space in time where I can create connections," she reflects, describing how she's finally able to chaperone her son's field trip and pursue interests beyond medicine. Her vibrant clinic with its eye-catching mural represents not just a business but a philosophy—healthcare that feels welcoming rather than clinical.

Whether you're a seasoned DPC provider, considering opening your own practice, or simply interested in healthcare alternatives, this conversation offers invaluable insights into creating a practice built on connection, autonomy, and balance. Ready to reimagine what your professional life could be? Listen now and join Katlyn on her journey from burnout to breakthrough.

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John Rothwell's journey from Army medevac paramedic to owner of a thriving Direct Primary Care practice offers a blueprint for healthcare entrepreneurs seeking both clinical and business success. With over 1,000 patients and three nurse practitioners at Island Direct Primary Care in Florida, Rothwell demonstrates how values-based healthcare can create sustainable, profitable practices.

The foundation of Rothwell's approach rests on two core pillars: "God, family, and community" paired with a commitment to being "loving, encouraging, and empowering." This philosophy shapes everything from patient interactions to business decisions, creating a practice that stands out in a crowded healthcare marketplace.

After experiencing traditional healthcare's frustrations firsthand, Rothwell leveraged his diverse background in emergency medicine and technology sales to reimagine primary care delivery. Starting as the first DPC in his county five years ago, he built his practice through initial word-of-mouth referrals, strategic partnerships, and eventually hiring a dedicated marketing professional. This methodical growth approach has yielded remarkable results despite charging premium prices ($99/month for adults, $49/month for children) – 25-40% higher than local competitors.

What truly distinguishes Rothwell's model is his investment in people. Rather than following the typical lean DPC approach, he prioritizes quality staffing, offering nurse practitioners 28-hour workweeks, uncapped PTO, and a clear salary progression from $100,000 to $150,000 plus profit-sharing. This focus on practitioner wellbeing translates directly to patient experience, with providers having the time and energy to deliver exceptional care.

Rothwell's strategic innovations extend beyond staffing to include free medications for patients, specialized functional medicine programs at premium pricing ($4,800-5,500 for six months), and carefully designed technology systems. Now planning his third and fourth clinic locations, including out-of-state expansion, he offers aspiring DPC owners crucial advice: "Don't go at it alone," and "If you're not ready to make less and live more, then being an entrepreneur early on in DPC is probably not for you."

Ready to transform your healthcare practice or start your own DPC journey? Connect with like-minded practitioners, find mentors who've walked this path, and remember that sustainable success comes from putting values before profits. Your patients—and your quality of life—will thank you.

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Terri Pinder, a nurse practitioner with over two decades of experience, joins us for an enlightening episode exploring how she combines her passion for horticulture with healthcare through the innovative Direct Primary Care (DPC) model. Discover how her unique practice, "Intentionally Well," emphasizes not only functional medicine but also the importance of community engagement and education in health. 

Throughout her journey, Terri shares valuable insights on overcoming challenges and the critical need for autonomy in healthcare, highlighting the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships with patients. She offers a glimpse of her approach, which focuses on holistic wellness, promoting not just the physical health of her patients but encouraging them to adopt healthier lifestyles through workshops on gardening and wellness. 

This episode challenges conventional wisdom surrounding medical practice, diving into how entrepreneurship can foster innovation in healthcare delivery. With her extraordinary experience and wisdom, Terri inspires both current and aspiring practitioners to explore their paths in healthcare and redefine success beyond numbers and productivity. Join us for this inspiring discussion, and discover the myriad ways you can also cultivate health and wellness in your communities. Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts!

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This episode celebrates the successful inaugural DPC Launchpad Conference, highlighting how it fostered a sense of community among nurse practitioners and physician assistants. The reflections from the hosts reveal not only the achievements of the event but also the challenges faced and lessons learned for future conferences.

• Emphasis on the importance of community in direct primary care 
• Speakers provided valuable insights across various topics 
• Overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees 
• Themes of resilience, inspiration, and entrepreneurship emerged 
• Plans for future DPC Launchpad events include expanding networking opportunities 
• The organizers hope to maintain momentum and support for attendees beyond the conference

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Discover how Kathleen Trocki turned her passion for patient care into a thriving direct primary care practice in Bradenton, Florida. With a wealth of experience from working in cardiac and intensive care units, Kathleen faced the unique challenge of graduating during the pandemic, only to dive headfirst into the high-pressure world of urgent care. Hear about the camaraderie and resilience that emerged among healthcare providers during this unprecedented time. Kathleen's journey showcases how she was inspired by the direct primary care model at Florida State University, leading her to create Manatee Direct Primary Care and write her own success story.

Join us as Kathleen shares the lessons learned from blending medicine with business savvy, revealing the strategies behind growing a successful direct primary care practice. Uncover the secrets behind her meticulous patient transition process, the innovative use of software like Elation Health and Hint Health, and the art of setting service pricing that balances financial viability with comprehensive care. From hiring staff who align with her values to opting out of Medicare to better serve her patients, Kathleen provides a roadmap for anyone curious about the world of direct primary care. This episode is a valuable exploration of the balance between patient care and entrepreneurship, offering insights for both healthcare professionals and those interested in the evolving landscape of medical practices.

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What if you could transform your professional life and find a deeper sense of fulfillment? In this episode, Krystle Dillon, a nurse practitioner from Olivia, Minnesota, shares her awe-inspiring journey from a young certified nursing assistant to an established family nurse practitioner. Krystle dives into her evolving career, detailing the constraints she faced in hospital nursing and her discovery that building meaningful patient relationships was her true calling. She candidly discusses the challenges of corporate medicine and her courageous decision to embrace the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model, even incorporating an aesthetics business along the way.

Krystle's path to DPC wasn't without its trials. With overwhelming patient loads and the weight of student loan debt, she found herself shackled by the "golden handcuffs" of a high-volume corporate practice. Discover how a serendipitous article and a transformative DPC summit helped her and her initially skeptical spouse see the light. Krystle also credits influential figures in the DPC community for their guidance and support, painting a vivid picture of the tight-knit and innovative world of Direct Primary Care.

Our discussion doesn't stop at Krystle's personal story. We explore broader issues, like the inefficiencies of the traditional healthcare system and the emotional toll on medical professionals. Krystle's experience with Rural Authentic Wellness highlights the benefits of a holistic healthcare approach, where removing insurance complexities can lead to more meaningful patient interactions. Learn about the diverse services her clinic offers and the importance of patient education in DPC. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone keen on understanding the transformative potential of Direct Primary Care and the empowering journey of nurse practitioners stepping beyond conventional roles.

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What happens when a seasoned respiratory therapist transitions into a successful nurse practitioner and then takes the leap into entrepreneurship? Join us as Lisa Magary, DNP, ARNP, CPNP, FNP-BC shares her compelling journey, detailing how she navigated various roles in healthcare to create a Direct Primary Care (DPC) practice that is now thriving. Lisa's story is nothing short of inspiring, especially when she recounts overcoming a severe spinal cord injury to regain her ability to perform medical procedures. Discover her unique marketing strategies via Business Network International (BNI) groups and how her patient-focused approach sets her practice apart.

Dive deep into the technicalities of running a successful medical practice with our exploration of the comprehensive EMR system, Atlas MD. Learn about the seamless integration of billing, inventory management, and patient communication that makes Atlas MD a game-changer for Lisa's clinic. We also highlight the diverse treatments available, from dermatological procedures to innovative therapies like Softwave, which Lisa herself used during her recovery. Through personal anecdotes, Lisa emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation to provide top-notch patient care.

Balancing compassionate care with professional boundaries is crucial in the DPC model, and Lisa offers valuable advice on managing frequent patient contact and setting limits for non-emergent issues. Hear about her responsible prescribing practices for controlled substances and resourceful ways to equip a medical office without breaking the bank. Reflecting on her practice's evolution, Lisa underscores the benefits of the DPC model for both patients and providers, improving quality of life and family dynamics. Don't forget to connect with us through subscriptions, reviews, and social media to share your thoughts and suggestions for future episodes.

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Ever wondered how a nurse transitions from hospital work to running a thriving direct primary care practice? Join us as we chat with Tori Prendergast, a family nurse practitioner from Northern Indiana, who shares her remarkable journey from being a float nurse to owning her own practice. Tori opens up about her father's mentorship, her determination to succeed, and how she managed to navigate the healthcare world without ever entangling with insurance companies. Discover the behind-the-scenes of Tori's life as she balances the demands of a 24/7 on-call schedule with the flexibility and family-friendliness of owning a DPC practice.

We explore the nuts and bolts of running a direct primary care practice, highlighting Tori’s decision to stick with Advanced MD for electronic medical records while contemplating a switch to Spruce for improved patient communication. Tori offers valuable tips on maintaining a healthy work-life balance, especially important as she raises a young family. Learn about the tools and strategies she employs to manage memberships and recurring billing, and get a glimpse into the financial rewards and hard work that come with a successful DPC practice.

In the final part of our episode, Tori emphasizes the power of taking risks and the importance of networking for personal and professional growth. She shares her passion for serving the Hispanic community and the impact of word-of-mouth referrals in building trust. Tori also discusses expanding her service offerings to include weight loss programs and hormone replacement therapy, which help attract and retain patients. Lastly, she touches on the significance of mentorship, promoting wellness, and the future goals for her practice, Mid City Health. Don't miss this episode full of actionable insights and inspiring stories from a trailblazing nurse practitioner.

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Can burnout lead to something profoundly positive? Join us as we sit down with Helen Tackitt, a remarkable nurse practitioner from Mebane, North Carolina, who proves it can. Helen’s journey from the high-pressure world of inpatient nursing to successfully opening her own direct primary care clinic is nothing short of inspiring. She shares how her initial career in urology and oncology, working at prestigious institutions like Duke and the Cleveland Clinic, eventually led her to seek a more fulfilling path, especially after experiencing the pandemic's impact firsthand.

Setting up a clinic in a small community comes with its own set of challenges, and Helen candidly discusses her strategies and setbacks in marketing and patient care. Despite traditional marketing efforts falling short, she found unexpected success through Facebook, allowing her to build a patient base of around 465 individuals. Helen's pursuit of a functional medicine certification to better serve her patients underscores her commitment to integrative care. She also highlights the importance of finding the right team members and the invaluable experience of precepting students in healthcare.

From switching management systems to ensure better patient care to setting boundaries for a healthier work-life balance, Helen shares the nuts and bolts of running a direct primary care practice. She offers practical insights on restructuring membership fees, managing patient communications, and the crucial steps in opening a DPC clinic. Helen’s story is packed with lessons and advice for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of the healthcare system and make a meaningful impact in their community. Don't miss this episode filled with actionable wisdom and heartfelt experiences.

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