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Brian J. Gallagher, PT.
Welcome to our award-winning physical therapy podcast for private practice owners who want to set themselves up for success and join the industry’s top 10%. Whether your business is just starting up or you’re looking to grow as a business leader and stay on top of industry trends, this weekly podcast hosted by Brian Gallagher, PT and Founder of MEG Business, features actionable insights and tips from physical therapy experts who share the marketing, operations, personnel and clinical secrets that not only improve your practice, but also your life as an entrepreneur!
Ep.346: Become the Best PT Private Practice CEO You Know
Just like you in private practice, we are also constantly trying to improve and help you in the best way possible! Remember how much time and money you invested to become a physical therapist? Have you done the same thing to become the best CEO? Let’s take a look at actionable strategies for ultimate success in leadership. Episode at a glance: It’s time to LOOK Focus on time management Live by the numbers Give a little grace
28:5620/11/2024
Ep.345: The Most Underrated Tool in Your Toolbox
What’s your secret weapon? Staff retention! We are lucky to have staff who have been with us 10, 15, even 20 years! You want to establish staff loyalty so that you have less turnover and thus, less need for recruitment efforts. Learn how to attract people who want to stay with you long-term. Create a career, not just a job! Episode at a glance: Marketing and branding Recruitment never stops Incentives for non-clinical and clinical staff Top tier compensation models
28:2313/11/2024
Ep.344: Lack of Money Isn't Your Problem, It's Your Symptom
Let’s look at some hard facts. Life here in the 4th quarter of 2024 is not cheap, whether you’re a physical therapist or otherwise. We understand the financial pains you’re experiencing in this income squeeze, so what is the solution? Let’s take a look at your current practice model and see how you can optimize it for success. Episode at a glance: Physical therapy wages and admin costs The real problem Practice model and schedule options What you can do about it
12:1006/11/2024
Ep.343: How to Fix Your Poorly Performing Practice
In this episode of Physical Therapy Private Practice Secrets of the Top 10 Percent, host Brian Gallagher, PT, dives straight into one of the most common challenges facing private practice owners: identifying and addressing the root causes of poor performance in their clinics. Drawing on his 30 years of experience, Brian provides practical insights and proven strategies to help practice owners turn around underperforming operations. This episode is a masterclass in diagnosing issues, implementing structure, and fostering accountability—all aimed at transforming a struggling practice into a successful, high-performing business. Key Takeaways Identify Root Causes - Common issues include staff misalignment, lack of accountability, structural gaps, inadequate training, and quality control. Implement the Five Divisions - HR/Admin, Marketing, Finance, Production, and Quality Assurance. Use Metrics for Accountability - Track Net Promoter Scores, visit adherence, and staff performance. Foster a Learning Culture - Invest in a learning management system to support continuous team development. Outsource for Efficiency - Delegate non-clinical functions to trusted professionals to focus on clinical growth.
17:3930/10/2024
Ep.342: What Most PT Owners Overlook
In this episode of Physical Therapy Private Practice Secrets of the Top 10%, host Brian Gallagher dives deep into often-overlooked areas that could transform your private practice. He discusses the power of managing by data and metrics rather than intuition, how to maximize productivity by setting aside admin time, and why knowing the math behind your practice is essential for sustained growth. Brian also shares valuable insights on outsourcing, controlling payroll costs, and effectively scaling up for a profitable 2025. Key Topis Discussed: Set Dedicated Admin Time Rely on Data, Not Just Instinct Keep Payroll in Check Outsource Wisely These essential actions will help you build a practice poised for success in 2025!
17:3325/10/2024
Ep.341: PPS 2024 Was About HELP
You’ve heard it before, “If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’re going to keep getting what you’ve got.” The message of PPS 2024 could be summed up in one word: help! People are seeking financial, personnel and practice management help. We are so grateful to be able to continue helping you! Episode at a glance: Consulting versus coaching Perfectionism gets nothing done Do it for others! Only pay for what you need
24:5316/10/2024
Ep.340: Back to Basics - The 4 Keys to Practice Success
Do you relate to the hot topics that are circulating as “problems” in the physical therapy world? Unfortunately, burying our heads in the sand will not make them go away. Learn how to master the basics, set the tone and foster a shared reality for your private practice. Remember: only after the group wins do the individual members win. Episode at a glance: Post-onboarding training The Two-Way Street Environment, Structure, Personnel, Systems of Operation Staff certification training
26:2602/10/2024
Ep.339: Is the APTA Private Practice Section Conference Worth It?
Calling new and veteran therapists alike! Is the APTA’s Private Practice Section conference worth your time? Short answer: yes! We know it’s an investment of time and money, but truly, you can’t afford not to learn the latest in physical therapy and be able to predict its future. Mingle with and learn from the best in our industry! Episode at a glance: Make the investment Physical therapy is a “retail business” PPS is the place to learn Get resources and connections
19:2425/09/2024
Ep.338: Unburdening Today’s Physical Therapist
It’s important that we take a good look at how we can help unburden others, but it really starts with yourself! Don’t burden your staff with things that they didn’t go to school for, and make sure they really know the difference that they make at your clinic. Enhance their skills both personally and professionally, and you will have the best practice in town! Episode at a glance: Strive for betterment Minimize admin burdens AI and RTM Virtual Front Desk
19:5319/09/2024
Ep.337: How to Not Suck at Running a Practice
I know we’re coming in hot with this title, but really, we’re addressing the executive mindset! You must have standards of practice and a two-way street implemented in your organization. In other words, learn how to say “no!” Learn how to enable the success of those you work with and how to manage by statistics. Episode at a glance: Don’t spoil your staff 5 things to master as a manager Administrative versus worker mindset Structure & systems
32:4211/09/2024
Ep.336: Achieving Time, Money and Happiness in Physical Therapy
It might seem contrary to everything else you hear, but you actually can have it all! Let’s evaluate what your work options are in today’s environment. Sit down and bullet point out your ideal scene. Avail yourself to better strategies, protocols and systems that will protect you against any downturns - you can’t afford not to! Episode at a glance: Growth = viability Hire based on performance and goals Energy versus emotion Definition of effort
29:4204/09/2024
Ep.335: Taking Your Staff Development From Good to GREAT
There’s nothing wrong with being content and not wanting for anything more. But if you know there’s room for improvement in your company culture and operations, it’s time to invest in yourself and your team. Create the game of professional opportunity for your staff. Running a successful practice in 2024 is not as impossible as you may think! Episode at a glance: Get training beyond PT School Define hats and products Post onboarding checklist You can’t afford to wear others’ conditions
21:5028/08/2024
Who is PatientStudio EMR?
It’s not about what you do, it’s about what you can do to help others. Today, we are excited to welcome Zak Bartley and Derek Sanborn to introduce the PatientStudio software to our audience. These data experts have developed an EMR with intuitive tools like we’ve never seen before. Look for yourself, and aim to work with people who you know, like and trust! Episode at a glance: Great fit for startups and small-to-medium sized businesses Can work with cash and insurance (or a hybrid!) The difference between scribe and generative AI Live demo! Connect with PatientStudio at www.patientstudio.com or [email protected]
39:1621/08/2024
Is Your Practice 100% in Compliance?
If there’s something we don’t know or fully understand, it becomes too easy to sweep it under the rug and ignore it. Compliance might not seem like the #1 area that you should have your attention on as the practice owner, but in this “over-regulated” society, the consequences for not confronting it can be detrimental. Don’t be sloppy with your business operations, ensure that you have the proper safeguards to protect your business. Episode at a glance: Don’t ignore and justify 7 essential elements What is your risk management plan? Get ongoing support
17:2514/08/2024
Physical Therapists Do NOT Bill (Here’s Why)
Back in the 1990’s, we ran the endless cycle of “more patients, more staff, more money” in order to grow our practices. Today, we must realize that people are looking for an experience, and a group that truly cares about them. Your therapists are not in the business of “billing” - they are in the business of giving an abundance of skilled care. Episode at a glance: The 1990’s versus today We are a retail provider Physical therapists do not “bill” The absolute best schedule
17:5507/08/2024
Ep.331: How to Find the Right Business Coach
Welcome back! Let’s talk about choosing the right business coach for you. If you plan to open a physical therapy practice, make sure that you work with someone who has a proven track record of success in that field. Ensure that they listen well and are able to put themselves in your shoes. Episode at a glance: Must be niche-specific Make sure they really listen to you Willing to learn from others Soft personnel management skills
19:3031/07/2024
Ep.330: Successful Actions for the New Tomorrow
Let’s take a step back and evaluate where we are in private practice today, and where we are quickly headed. It’s not all about the referrals anymore, it’s about reputation. What does it take to be the #1 provider in your community? Stay purpose-driven by focusing on serving others as your primary function. Episode at a glance: Becoming a retail provider Your bandwidth is limited Reduce your payroll Branding
21:5924/07/2024
Ep.329: 5 Myths About Going Into Physical Therapy Private Practice
There are a million and a half reasons NOT to do something. But here’s the reality: someone, somewhere is doing it and succeeding - and so can you! Join us as we bust the 5 most common myths about going into private practice that we hear every week, and discover the truth about what it takes to run a viable and thriving business! Episode at a glance: Myth #1: Profit = Greed Myth #2: I can just DIY it! Myth #3: I need to hire everyone in-house Myth #4: I’m a good clinician or manager, so I should be a good owner Myth #5: My practice needs to be a cash-only business Bonus myth! It’s better for me to grow slowly
19:1917/07/2024
Ep.328: The Power of Clinical Notes AI, with Live Demo!
We are excited to welcome Ross Young, CEO of Clinical Notes AI to the podcast! With clinician burnout becoming a major problem across the field, the mission statement at Clinical Notes is to help the people who are helping people through the use of AI technology. Imagine if your therapists had their own personal therapeutic scribe! Explore the power of this speech-to-text technology to make your clinician’s lives easier. Episode at a glance: AI transcript with documentation accuracy & consistency Can integrate with EHR Web-based and app on the way Works on mobile as well HIPAA Gap Analysis for self-assessment Zero Data Retention (ZDR) method
58:1910/07/2024
Ep.327: Defining “Freedom” in Physical Therapy Private Practice
We are now halfway through the year - it’s time for us to reset and reevaluate! Why did you pursue a career in physical therapy in the first place? This isn’t just a business, it’s a passion! Get the support you need for optimum practice sustainability and growth. Episode at a glance: Achieving life freedom Get the administrative functions off your plate How to communicate with doctors Pros and cons of technology
36:1803/07/2024
Ep.326: Optimizing Your Policy and Procedure Manual
What is the ultimate dream of any private practice owner? Success is dependent on those that you surround yourself with. The policy & procedure manual is a perfect way to establish the rules of the road for a healthy and thriving business. Do yourself a favor and make sure that yours is thorough and up-to-date! Episode at a glance: How to handle antagonistic people Standard Operating Procedures Real (and avoidable) policy horror stories Inspection and correction
28:1926/06/2024
Ep.325: 5 Ways To Be an Effective Physical Therapy Clinical Director
Many of us who have moved through careers in physical therapy remember the transition from staff therapist to Clinical Director - a transition that was not always an easy one. What could we have done differently? In this episode, we provide structured guidance and successful actions for therapists who are moving into management and leadership roles! Episode at a glance: The true objective of a Clinical Director Staff investment program Increase reality and communication Manage by statistics It’s not about directing, it’s about engaging
22:4219/06/2024
Ep.324: The Latest in AI Technology with PredictionHealth
This week, we’re excited to welcome back Co-Founder & CEO Pedro Teixeira, MD, PhD, and Kelly Brown, DPT from PredictionHealth! It has become increasingly difficult to keep up with the many advancements in AI technology as it pertains to physical therapy. Join us for an exciting discussion on the evolving capabilities of AI and how it’s able to free your practice from the growing list of administrative burdens. Episode at a glance: Advanced AI documentation tool Compliance & CPT coding accuracy Secure, HIPAA-compliant data storage The patients love it! Ask AI chatbot
01:06:3412/06/2024
Ep.323: Leading Through Change Versus Being a Victim of It
Have you ever dreamed of moving from employee to employer? Let’s talk about being a leader who isn’t afraid to drive change for maximum growth. Be willing to spot and remove problematic people from your group. Most of all, get the training you need to fill in the gaps of what you don’t know! Episode at a glance: No complaining! Be willing to “put the cart before the horse” Spot and distance yourself from problematic people Embrace technology
31:4105/06/2024
Ep.322: Red Flags in Your EMR System (with the Experts!)
Today, we welcome our Billing Director, Stacey White, and our Director of Virtual Front Desk, Taylor Wagner, to give their unique perspectives on the good, the bad, and the ugly of your EMR system. There’s no sugarcoating today! Join us for an open dialog on why people leave their current system, major red flags to avoid, and what you should expect from an effective system. Episode at a glance: All-in-one comprehensive program Communication and transparency are everything Defining Clearing House and “scrubbing the claim” Costs explained Tips for choosing the right EMR
58:5629/05/2024
Ep. 321: Top Questions from Practice Owners Nationwide, Answered
Today, we tackle the most relevant questions & concerns that we’ve been hearing from practice owners across the country. We are here to supplement your knowledge, but at the end of the day, the decision is yours. Whether you're a new or established practice owner, level up your business by applying these successful actions! Episode at a glance: The Practice Assessment process When to hire your next therapist Defining clinical efficiency The Learning Management System
32:1522/05/2024
Ep.320: What to Expect from the Private Practice Credentialing Process
Learn more at our Zoomcast “Beyond the Basics: Advanced Credentialing Health Checks for Thriving Therapy Practices” on May 16th at 12pm EST You can’t escape it! Credentialing can either help you or hurt you, and it’s your responsibility to know the rules for your state and the compliance intricacies of this process. This isn’t an aspect of your business that you should be trying to do yourself, or dragging your feet on! Work with experts to avoid any messes with your contracting & credentialing. Episode at a glance: The difference between contracting and credentialing Diversify your services Do not DIY this process Credentialing works between your Front Desk and Billing departments
17:3715/05/2024
Ep.319: Master Tough Markets: Tips from JAG Physical Therapy's CEO
John Gallucci Jr., PT is the President & CEO of JAG Physical Therapy, a thriving chain of top-performing clinics in the Northeast. Join John and Brian as they discuss the shortcomings of Academia, how to provide intrapreneurial opportunities for staff and students, and how to excel in a low reimbursement area. Whether you are operating in this market or anywhere across the country, we know you will walk away inspired and with tons of valuable tools! Episode at a glance: Mentoring young clinicians Invest in your people first Crucial metrics for a healthy practice Retention & outcomes https://www.jagpt.com Contact John at [email protected] The JAG Method book
52:3708/05/2024
Ep.318: Crushing the Physical Therapy Interview Process
How do you attract and retain the best possible people to your practice? Your people are the secret to your success. Employers and employees share the same highway, this is a two-way street. Apply the principles of the 5-step interview process whether you’re the one applying for the job, or conducting the interview! Episode at a glance: Master your personal integrity Master communication The 5-Step Interview Process Questions for Interview Day
41:4201/05/2024
Ep.317: The Million Dollar Question
Here is the million-dollar question: How do you feel about your future, and what can you do about it? We have the tools and mechanics that will enable you to run a more effective practice - this is the easy part. Your ability to perceive and navigate people is everything. Your future is in your hands! Episode at a glance: Your past does not dictate your future Perception is king The industry is constantly changing Shorten your runway
38:2424/04/2024
Ep.316: Strategic Programs & Benefits to Attract Top Talent
Are you struggling to recruit and retain top talent for your practice? Today, we focus on one group in particular: the New Grad (1-3 years out of school). Stand out among the competition by offering the best opportunities for young physical therapists who are ready to build a fruitful career! Episode at a glance: Optimize your ads Top programs & benefits Promote! Tuition reimbursement program
22:3917/04/2024
Ep.315: Three Powerful Ways to Up Your Earnings with Gwen Simons, Esq, PT
If you don’t take the steering wheel of control into your own hands, no one else will. This week, we are honored to welcome accomplished physical therapist and lawyer, Gwen Simons. With these two backgrounds, Gwen brings a unique perspective and provides expertise on the legal do’s and don’ts for creating a streamlined and viable physical therapy business. Learn how to effectively increase your revenue and reduce costs, the right way! Episode at a glance: Helping small practitioners DROP your low-paying contracts How to set your rate and clinic schedule The difference between physical therapy and “wellness”
01:10:0010/04/2024
Ep.314: Is Your Clinic Schedule Working Against You?
Practice owners across the country are trying to find more ways to increase revenue and reduce costs. We have many tactics to help you with this, one of which is re-evaluating your schedule. Are you being held hostage by your clinic schedule? The most effective schedule that the top clinics in the nation are winning with might surprise you… Episode at a glance: The top 3 types of schedules The top 10% of practices are averaging 12-14 visits per day Outsource your admin staff How are you going to innovate your practice?
17:4903/04/2024
Ep.313: Anatomy of the Ideal Private Practice
In this robust episode, we break the anatomy of your dream private practice down into three parts. Are you willing to bet on yourself as a practice owner? Drop your fixed ideas and open your mind to the successful actions of the top 10% of clinics nationwide. Follow this blueprint to go from startup to success! Episode at a glance: Part 1: Extrinsic factors Part 2: Financial factors Part 3: Operational factors
56:3327/03/2024
Ep.312: Prompt - The Ferrari of EMR Systems (with Mike Dwyer)
We have observed some people in the industry operating in a “race to the bottom” - trying to get what they need for the lowest possible cost. As a practice owner, you must evaluate your cost-to-return ratio and pursue the system that delivers the best value to your practice. Don’t settle on the system that touches every aspect of your practice. Find out more about this state-of-the-art product, and thank us later! Episode at a glance: Do business with people you know, like and trust What sets Prompt apart? Top features of the system Pros and cons of Prompt
42:4420/03/2024
Ep.311: Targeted Marketing for Maximum Reach
What is Marketing? Marketing is not sales. It’s all about the story you’re telling, and how you are promoting your purpose. What is the perception of your company that you’re trying to create? Always approach your marketing from the intention of helping others. Episode at a glance: It’s about others How are you using social media? The point is to create a connection Don’t try to be everywhere
39:0913/03/2024
Ep.310: Accepting the Rules of the Game
It’s important to understand that failures are part of the landscape. Hurdles are part of the journey. What are you willing to do about it? What changes are you willing to make? What matters most is your reaction to them - be willing to adopt new ideas! Episode at a glance: Success is within your control Mindset and skill set Dial in your vision Right idea, wrong application
14:3006/03/2024
Ep.309: Are You Doing More But Making Less?
This week, we give recent examples of what physical therapists at various stages of practice ownership are experiencing right now - plus applicable solutions. Your practice isn’t going to fix itself! Here are the things that you do have control over to change for the better. Episode at a glance: Stop blaming the Income Squeeze Three income verticals with cash-based services Certainty = control Don’t short-change yourself!
22:0528/02/2024
Ep.307: Real Talk on Contract Negotiations
Let’s have some fun with this topic. Don’t fear the “confrontation” of it - go in with confidence, certainty and conviction! Take out the guesswork and do all of your preparation before you even pick up the phone for the conversation. Episode at a glance: Data collection and leverage Understand their viewpoint Have specialized services and programs Patient letters and Net Promoter Score Role play of the conversation
38:4221/02/2024
Ep.308: Reaction to APTA CSM 2024
What do you plan to do differently in 2024? We’ve never seen so much enthusiasm (or so many attendees!) as we just did at CSM in Boston. The energy was contagious! We were proud to give solutions to a packed room of therapists on how to beat the Income Squeeze using the new Progressive PT Practice Model. The solution is CHANGE! Episode at a glance: The future of PT private practice There’s a demand for change Rolling out Pay-for-performance model Real-life applications
27:3221/02/2024
Ep.306: How to Succeed Without Guessing or Stressing
As physical therapists, we are in the business of people! Success in private practice is already within your reach. If you’re not sure where to start (or are still throwing spaghetti at the wall) consider these tried-and-true strategies and systems. Remember - if you’re not expanding, you’re contracting! Episode at a glance: Stop fixating on problems Manage and delegate Acknowledge and validate your employees Can you spot the bad apples?
36:2807/02/2024
The Secrets to Startup Success with Benjamin Bleess, DPT
Would you rather have a comfortable job, or total business freedom? Have you ever felt alone in your private practice journey? Dr. Benjamin Bleess is about a year out with his physical therapy practice and is a shining example of entrepreneurial success. Learn about the tools and strategies that Ben put into action to build the private practice of his dreams. Episode at a glance: Meet your patients needs A good leader is always willing to look Freedom equation Learn from the best See the end at the beginning Reach out to Ben! Email: [email protected]
44:4531/01/2024
Ep.304: Bridging the Skill Gap
Though PT School lays a great foundation, our skill development is a lifelong journey. You might not be able to go back in time and apply everything you’ve learned, but you don’t have to keep playing catch-up either. What PT School didn’t give you, is business training! Stay connected to your vision and learn how to develop the skills needed to realize your ideal scene. Episode at a glance: Seek out the things you don’t know Know (exactly) what you want 3 phases of business development Resist the self-doubt
20:5324/01/2024
Ep.303: A Moment of Self-Reflection - Are You Being True to Your Dream?
It’s time for a quick heart-to-heart. Are you compromising on your ideal scene? We’ve been hearing a lot of risk-averseness and people watering down their private practice dreams. Starting in physical therapy private practice is actually pretty simple - don’t take the path of least resistance! Episode at a glance: Stop procrastinating on your dream 30% of people are risk-averse Environment, personnel, systems of operation Step #1 for entrepreneurship
15:2017/01/2024
Ep.302: Recruiting A-Team Players to Your Private Practice
Remember: we’re not just hiring a license and a heartbeat. How do we position ourselves as a top-tier practice in the eyes of potential new hires? How do we align with their purposes and values? Be smart about your compensation packages and write ads that spark interest. Episode at a glance: You don’t need to throw more money Consider hiring a recruiter Establish a relationship with PT Schools The hiring process Who by Geoff Smart and Randy Street
36:0411/01/2024
Ep.301: Industry Predictions for 2024
Welcome to 2024! Many physical therapists that we’ve spoken to recently seem to be moving into the new year in a sort of frustrated haze. Picture this: if you use the right tools to fight your way through the jungle, you will make it to the beautiful lagoon on the other side. Prepare yourself for the new year with our informed physical therapy industry predictions. Episode at a glance: Our goals for the podcast for 2024 Focus on your objectives for 6-12 months from now You own time, it does not own you Physical therapy industry predictions (researched and opinion)
47:3104/01/2024
Ep. 300: Happy Holidays from MEG!
The end of the year poses a great time for us to self-reflect and project for the future. If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’re going to keep getting what you’ve got! Don’t go another year saying “I wish”, “I should”, or “I could.” Give your staff the gift of merit-based compensation and give yourself the gift of entrepreneurship in private practice! Episode at a glance: Our 300th episode! What you didn’t get in PT School What is freedom? Be the Go-Getter **Special discount if you purchase MEG Academy before the end of the year!
13:4828/12/2023
Ep.299: The Bulletproof Compensation Model (Where Everyone Wins!)
This week, we give you the key elements that are sure to help solve your recruiting problems. The top 10% want to reap the benefits of their hard work, understand your purpose, and win alongside the group. How do you attract these A-team players? Implement a value point system and the Pay-for-performance model - which is all pros, no cons! Learn how to cultivate a culture where your employees aren’t working FOR you, but are participating WITH you. Episode at a glance: Tools for hiring & recruiting Cure the staffing shortage disease Implement a value point system The bulletproof Pay-for-performance model Shorten the runway when hiring! 4-step rollout process
38:2820/12/2023
Ep.298: The Fee Schedule of the Future
The “new normal” is that there is no normal. As the owner, you set the tone for your practice; and we tend to see a dramatic difference between the owners who have had executive training, versus those who haven’t. Put on your business hat and ask yourself - are you willing to change the way that you exchange with your patients? Learn which stats you should look at when evaluating your insurances, and which fee schedules the top 10% of practices are already winning with. Episode at a glance: Why does your business exist? Top fee schedules Insurance payor advice Proportion breakdown and stats
34:2013/12/2023
Ep.297: Resisting the “Doom-and-Gloom” Mindset
We’re spanning our mindset across generations today. You can resist the pressure of group agreement by learning how to out-create yesterday. This is the game that you chose to play, so let’s elevate it! Your dream is still possible, even today. Also, learn how to harness the power of meetings! Episode at a glance: The individual versus the group This is the game you chose to play Somebody out there is succeeding The power of meetings
32:3506/12/2023