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