The Dental Boardroom

118:Dental Financial Planning: Turning Chaos into Financial Freedom - Part 8

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, host Wes Read, CPA CFP®, continues the financial planning series for dental practice owners by focusing on a critical phase three step: determining your payroll (W-2 income) as an S-Corp owner.

Wes explains how payroll fits into your broader business financial plan, why it matters for tax efficiency, and how it interacts with retirement plan strategies like 401(k)s and defined benefit plans. You’ll learn when to keep your W-2 lower to save on FICA taxes, and...

117: Dental Financial Planning: Turning Chaos into Financial Freedom - Part 7

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, host Wes Read, CPA, CFP®, breaks down how dentists can turn tax chaos into predictable, stress-free planning. He shares why relying on your CPA only at tax time often leads to big surprises and how a structured approach, meeting mid-year and again in Q4, keeps finances on track. By using payroll strategically to cover nearly all taxes, dentists can avoid penalties, manage their cash flow more effectively, and replace large, unexpected bills with a small, manageable refund.

W...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Reed, CPA, CFP, continues his financial planning series for dental practice owners by diving deeper into the concept of break-even levels and the importance of creating a business financial plan that supports your personal financial goals.

Wes revisits the three key break-evens every dentist should know:

From there, he outlines the fi...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Read, CPA, CFP, continues the series on turning financial chaos into financial freedom for dental practice owners. Building on previous episodes covering team assembly, personal financial planning, and implementation strategies, Wes dives deep into the third step: developing a business financial plan that supports your personal financial goals.

He explains why organizing your financial reporting is the foundation for success, how to interpret monthly financial “X-rays” of your practice, and why understanding your break-even points is critical for long-term wealth accumulation.

Whether you’re aiming to stabil...

Welcome back to another episode of the Dental Boardroom Podcast, where we help dental practice owners break down the world of finance and build a path to financial independence.

We’re now entering Phase 3 of our series Financial Planning for Dental Practice Owners: Turning Chaos into Financial Freedom. This phase focuses on developing your business financial plan, and today’s episode dives deep into Step 1: Organizing Your Practice Financial Reports.

You’ll learn how your financial statements act as "financial X-rays" for your business and why reviewing them monthly is essential—not just for tax filing...

Welcome back to The Dental Board Room Podcast! In this episode, we continue our multi-part series on financial planning for dental practice owners. Phase 1 covered building the right financial team. Now in Phase 2, we shift the focus from the business to you personally — developing a Personal Plan for Financial Independence.

In today's episode, we deep dive into Step 2 of Phase 2:

Creating a Personal Spending Plan – or how to design a smart, sustainable approach to how you use your money today.

You’ll learn how to separate your business cash flow into short-term personal spendi...

Welcome back to The Dental Boardroom Podcast! In this episode, we continue our deep-dive series on financial planning for dental practice owners — turning financial chaos into true financial freedom.

Today, host Wes Read, CPA and CFP, explores Phase Two of the financial planning journey: Developing a Personal Plan for Financial Independence.

Wes shares his unique approach, combining technical expertise and life planning philosophy, to help dentists create a personalized roadmap toward their ideal lifestyle — whether it’s a simple, peaceful life or one filled with travel and luxury.

This episode emphasizes that every dentis...

In this kickoff episode of a brand-new series, host Wes Read shares the foundation of financial planning tailored specifically for dental practice owners. Drawing from his widely presented talk, Dental Financial Planning: Turning Chaos into Financial Freedom, Wes explains why every dentist—regardless of age—should have a personal financial plan. He discusses the importance of building a roadmap for your future, even if life takes unexpected turns, and outlines how thoughtful planning today leads to financial independence tomorrow.

Check this out: Leadership Team Diagram – Download PDF

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In this episode, Wes Read dives deep into a topic that keeps many dental practice owners awake at night: embezzlement. Drawing from real-life cases and his years of experience working with dentists, Wes explores how trusted team members can sometimes become the source of financial harm. He emphasizes the importance of "professional skepticism", a principle he adopted early in his career at Ernst & Young, and how applying this mindset can help dentists protect their finances without damaging team morale.

Download the Embezzlement Protection Guide for Dentists from Practice CFO:

https://practicecfo.com/wp-content/uploads/PracticeCFO-Embezzlement-Protection-Guide...

In this quarter’s deep dive, Wes Read unpacks the latest insights from the ADA Health Policy Institute’s Q2 2025 report—a comprehensive look at the state of the U.S. dental economy. Using AI to summarize key findings, we explore economic confidence among dentists, patient spending patterns, workforce trends, and the paradox of continued investments despite growing uncertainty. Whether you’re a dental professional, healthcare investor, or simply curious about the business of smiles—this episode is for you.

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In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, host Wes Read, CPA CFP®, is joined by Myles Davis, founder of Dentrec—a platform designed to bring clarity and consistency between dental practice management systems, bank accounts, and accounting software like QuickBooks.

Wes and Myles explore the common yet often overlooked issue of reconciling collections data with actual deposits. They dive deep into how disorganization or gaps in reconciliation can lead to embezzlement, financial misstatements, patient trust issues, and inefficiencies in team performance tracking.

Myles shares how Dentrec is helping DSOs and solo practices alike automate rec...

In this quarterly market update, Wes Read is joined by Chief Investment Officer Brandon Hobson and investment committee member Paul Lipcius to unpack the swirling forces shaping the markets in mid-2025. From geopolitical tensions and legislative changes to the explosive innovation in AI, the team explores why this year has been anything but predictable.

They discuss the surprising resilience of markets, the impact of currency fluctuations, and why disciplined diversification across small caps, value stocks, and international equities is paying off for investors. Whether you’re curious about why international stocks are leading or how Practice CFO st...

In this important episode, Wes Read walks dental and healthcare practice owners through the major tax provisions of the sweeping “One Big Beautiful Bill,” passed just before July 4th. This landmark legislation includes hundreds of provisions designed to extend prior tax cuts, adjust deductions, and shape the future of business and personal tax planning. Wes distills the dense legislation into clear, actionable takeaways to help you make informed decisions for your practice.

Who This Is For:

Dental and healthcare practice owners, business managers, and anyone interested in staying ahead of tax law changes that can affe...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom, host Drew Phillips sits down with Adrian Lefler, Co-Founder and CEO of My Social Practice. Adrian has been helping dental practices master digital marketing since 2009—long before “dental TikTok” became a thing.

They explore how generative AI and automation are fundamentally transforming the marketing landscape for dentists—from content creation and SEO to real-time patient engagement. Adrian shares how tools like Google’s Gemini and large language models are driving the cost of content nearly to zero, reshaping how practices get found online and build trust with patients.

Whether yo...

In this insightful episode, Drew Phillips continues the special series on AI in Dentistry with a deep dive into how Next Health is helping practices modernize patient experiences. Kyle Johnson shares his journey from early-stage team member to driving growth and solving some of the biggest challenges in dental technology—especially data integration. They explore why true AI transformation starts with clean, accessible data, how Next Health built tools that connect fragmented practice management systems, and the very real ways this is reducing front office burdens and improving care delivery today.

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Kyle Johnson’s Backg...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, host Wes Read, CPA, CFP, and owner of Practice CFO, sits down with Mike Buckner from Pearl AI—one of the frontrunners in AI-powered clinical analysis for dentistry. Together, they explore how artificial intelligence is transforming dental practices across the country.

Mike shares his deep experience with dental tech giants like Solutionreach, Dental Intel, and Weave, and how Utah has become a surprising hub for innovation in dental technology. The discussion highlights the game-changing role of AI in diagnostics, case acceptance, and practice efficiency. They also cover how Pearl AI...

In this eye-opening episode, host Wes Read, CPA, CFP welcomes Vivek Kinra, founder and CEO of Verific, for an in-depth conversation about artificial intelligence in dentistry.

The discussion starts off unscripted and fresh, as Vivek shares his unique journey from software engineering to creating multiple dental technology companies—PPO Profits and now Verific. He details how Verific uses genuine AI to tackle the notoriously complex problem of insurance verification.

Together, Wes and Vivek unpack the difference between real AI applications—like machine learning and large language models—and the marketing buzzwords that many companies use to inf...

In this episode of the Dental Board Room Podcast, Wes Read CPA, CFP, continues AI in Dentistry series with a very special guest, Dr. Wardah Inam, founder and CEO of Overjet AI. With a background from MIT and Harvard, Dr. Wardah Inam is at the forefront of AI innovation in dental care.

Overjet is the first FDA-cleared dental AI platform for both caries detection and bone level measurements. It’s used by solo practitioners, DSOs, insurers, and dental schools alike.

Dr. Wardah Inam walks us through how AI is reshaping diagnosis, patient communication, insurance verification, an...

In this thought-provoking episode of The Dental Boardroom, host Wes Read CPA and CFP continues his AI in Dentistry series by diving deep into one of the most transformative technologies shaping dental practices today—AI agents. Wes welcomes Mitch Hersche, founder of FOJI, a leading innovator in operational AI tools designed for dental offices. Together, they explore the what, why, and how of AI integration, breaking down complex concepts like generative AI, neural networks, and AI agents—all while keeping it relevant to the everyday challenges and opportunities faced by dental professionals.

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In this thought-provoking episode of The Dental Boardroom, host Wes Read CPA and CFP continues his AI in Dentistry series by diving deep into one of the most transformative technologies shaping dental practices today—AI agents. Wes welcomes Mitch Hersche, founder of FOJI, a leading innovator in operational AI tools designed for dental offices. Together, they explore the what, why, and how of AI integration, breaking down complex concepts like generative AI, neural networks, and AI agents—all while keeping it relevant to the everyday challenges and opportunities faced by dental professionals.

Key Discussion Points:

Welcome to another episode in our special AI in Dentistry series! As AI technologies rapidly evolve, so does their impact on dental practices — clinically, administratively, and technologically. Today, we’re doing something a little different — and very exciting.

In this episode, host Wes Read, CPA, CFP shares a live demonstration of how AI can simplify and clarify complex industry insights, using Google’s Notebook LM. 

What makes this episode unique is that much of the content you’ll hear is AI-generated — crafted in a conversational format between two virtual voices, discussing real, evidence-based applications of AI and AUI in...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Read, CPA, CFP, kicks off an exciting new series titled "AI in Dentistry." As artificial intelligence reshapes industries worldwide, Wes explores how dental practices can harness its power to improve efficiency, profitability, and patient care—without losing the human touch that defines quality service.

Wes shares a foundational overview of what AI is, how it compares to traditional automation, and what it means specifically for small business owners and dentists. He discusses the three major categories of AI (predictive analytics, natural language processing, and computer vision), the tech gi...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom, host Wes Read CPA and CFP welcomes special guest Kiera Dent, founder of The Dental A-Team, for a rich, unscripted conversation about what it takes to run a thriving dental practice in 2025.

Kiera opens up about her unique journey—from high school dental assistant (yes, because of the scrubs!) to building multi-location dental practices, and eventually founding a high-impact consulting agency. She shares her philosophy that a successful dental practice is about more than revenue—it’s about purpose, profit, and people.

Wes and Kiera discuss why so many d...

From associate to multi-million dollar practice owner and now dental consultant, Dr. Megan Shelton joins Wes Read, CPA, CFP®, and Paul on this powerful episode of the Dental Boardroom Podcast to share the mindset, strategy, and systems that fueled her remarkable journey.

Dr. Shelton opens up about purchasing a struggling $450K practice—while carrying $450K in debt—and how she transformed it into a thriving $3.2M business in just six years. She unpacks how combining data-driven strategy with heart-centered leadership helped her earn patient trust, grow her team, and lead with clarity. She also discusses the pivotal role...

In this episode of the Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Read, CPA and CFP, breaks down the key elements of the newly passed House tax bill—H.R.1, also called the “One Big, Beautiful Bill Act.” While it still faces an uncertain path in the Senate, this bill aims to permanently extend many provisions of the 2017 Trump Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Wes walks dentists through what matters most, including the preservation of lower income tax rates, an increased standard deduction, and the continuation of the SALT deduction cap and mortgage interest limits—provisions that have significant implications, especially for practice...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Read, CPA, CFP, sits down with Dr. Bob Marcus to unpack one of the most critical and misunderstood challenges in dentistry: case acceptance.

Dr. Marcus—seasoned clinician, educator, and practice management consultant—shares what separates practices that thrive from those that just get by. From mindset to method, he reveals how confidence, communication, and bundling treatment can elevate both patient care and profitability.

Together, Wes and Bob explore why many dentists unknowingly sabotage their own case presentations—and how to reverse that by shifting from features to fee...

Many dentists feel trapped in the PPO system—working long hours, doing more dentistry, and still questioning, “Where’s the money going?”

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Read, CPA and CFP, talks with Dr. Anissa Broussard about her powerful shift from PPO dependence to a thriving fee-for-service practice. Dr. Broussard shares how she reframed her mindset, leveraged social media to attract ideal patients, and built a brand rooted in authenticity and trust.

They also discuss the financial and emotional challenges of leaving insurance behind—and how purpos...

Wes Read, CPA and CFP, returns from the CDA Convention in Anaheim and sits down with Practice CFO’s lead CFO advisor, Paul Lipcius, and head of investments, Brandon Hobson, for an in-depth conversation on the current state of the economy and investing landscape in May 2025.

Together, they dive into the market’s reaction to global tariffs, recent signals from the Federal Reserve, macroeconomic trends, and how the Practice CFO investment committee is adjusting its strategies for clients amid uncertainty.

This is a must-listen for dentists and professionals looking to stay ahead of economic shifts that...

If you're a dental practice owner—or planning to become one—this episode could save you thousands. Wes Read, CPA and CFP, breaks down the financial fundamentals every dentist needs to master, especially when it comes to getting money out of your business without triggering IRS penalties.

Wes unpacks the critical role of choosing the right business structure—S Corporation, LLC, or sole proprietorship—and how that decision directly impacts your taxes. You’ll learn why S Corps are often the go-to for dentists, and how your “stock basis” plays a central role in what you can legally distri...

Welcome back to The Dental Boardroom Podcast! 

Wes Read CPA, CFP dives deep into a critical and often misunderstood topic among dental practice owners: Should you buy or open a second location?

Wes breaks down the real economics, hidden challenges, and common myths behind scaling your dental business by adding a second office. Drawing from years of client experiences and financial data, he explains why many dentists struggle — and why some succeed — in making this leap.

Whether you’re at the peak of your first practice and itching to grow, or just curious about e...

In this episode, Wes Read CPA, CFP and founder of PracticeCFO dives into one of the most important financial terms in dentistry: EBITDA. Whether you're planning to sell your practice or simply want to manage it better, understanding EBITDA is essential. Wes explains what it is, how to interpret it from your P&L, and why every dental professional—owner or associate—should know the business side of dentistry.

This episode is designed to help you start thinking like a CEO of your dental practice. Because yes, it’s a practice—but it’s also a business, with payro...

In this insightful episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Reed, CPA, CFP and founder of Practice CFO, breaks down the real financial impact of staying in-network with PPOs versus transitioning to a fee-for-service (FFS) model. Using a crown-focused case study, Wes illustrates how fewer procedures can yield significantly higher profits under FFS — even with some patient attrition. If you're a dental practice owner evaluating your profitability strategy, this episode will give you a clear-eyed view of the numbers that matter.

Key Points Covered:

Welcome back to The Dental Boardroom Podcast with Wes Read CPA, CFP!

In today's episode, we're pivoting from last week's discussion about reviewing your own financial statements to a powerful new focus: the 10 critical questions you should be asking your CPA every year — not just at tax time.

Why is this so important?

Most CPAs are historians by training — they look backward. But if you learn to engage them correctly, you can push your CPA into a more analytical, forward-thinking advisor role that will transform your practice’s financial success and help you build...

The PTE Deductions: Don’t Miss Out!

If you're a dental practice owner in a state with state-level income taxes—this episode with is for you. Host Wes Read CPA, CFP dives deep into the Pass-Through Entity (PTE) Tax Election, a tax-saving strategy that can turn your state tax payments into a federal tax deduction.

This is especially important for dentists in high-tax states like California, New York, or any state with a 4%+ income tax. Wes breaks down what the PTE is, why it matters, and how to use it properly—so you’re not leaving...

Welcome back to The Dental Boardroom Podcast with Wes Read.

In this follow-up to our previous episode on structuring your Profit & Loss (P&L) statement with Wes Read CPA, CFP, we dive deeper into the how of using your financials strategically.

This episode walks you through 10 essential questions—or rather, areas of focus—to ask each month when reviewing your financial statements. These questions will help you uncover trends, evaluate performance, and guide your practice toward long-term financial health.

Wes also breaks down how to align your collections with personal financial goals like reti...

Welcome back to The Dental Boardroom Podcast with Wes Read, CPA and founder of PracticeCFO. In this follow-up to our previous episode on structuring your Profit & Loss (P&L) statement, we dive deeper into the "how" of using your financials strategically.

This episode walks you through 10 essential questions—or rather areas of focus—to ask each month when reviewing your financial statements. These questions will help you uncover trends, evaluate performance, and guide your practice to long-term financial health.

Wes also breaks down how to align your collections with personal financial goals like...

In this episode with Wes Read CPA, CFP and founder of PracticeCFO, explore a topic that is absolutely foundational to the financial success of your dental practice—your financial statements. Host [Your Name] (or "I") breaks down the importance of understanding your Profit & Loss Statement (P&L) and how it reflects the economic health of your practice.

Whether you’re preparing to sell your dental practice or simply want to make smarter financial decisions, this episode will help you interpret your numbers and transform your P&L into a powerful decision-making tool.

Key Points:

Fi...

In this episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, Wes Read CPA, CFP, founder of a dental CPA and financial planning firm, dives deep into the Employee Retention Credit (ERC)—what it was, how it worked, and the lingering tax implications that dentists still need to address in 2025. From qualification rules and tax amendments to why the IRS is still behind on guidance, Wes breaks it all down with clarity and real-world insight. If you're a dentist who claimed the ERC or are still navigating its aftermath, this is a must-listen.

Key Points Covered:

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Selling a dental practice is one of the biggest financial decisions in a dentist’s life—and it’s easy to make costly mistakes. In this episode, Brian Hanks sits down with Wes Read, CPA and founder of PracticeCFO, to break down the top 5 most common mistakes dentists make when selling their practice. From bad timing to poor team assembly, Wes and Brian share the insights every seller needs to avoid leaving money (and sanity) on the table.

Key Points:

Why selling too late can hurt your practice value

The hidden danger of “just lis...

In this powerful episode of The Dental Boardroom Podcast, host Wes Reed, CPA and CFP, sits down with the dynamic Stacy Farley—former corporate sales leader turned dental practice powerhouse. Stacy shares her remarkable journey from business and sales into the world of dentistry, specifically her transformational work in her father’s full arch dental practice.

Together, they explore what it really means to “sell” in dentistry, how to guide patients toward life-changing decisions, and why understanding the real value of treatment is critical for both practice growth and patient outcomes. With proven techniques, real-world stories, and actionab...