In this quarterly review episode, Julie and Jacquie reflect on what private practice owners experienced in 2025 and what to expect in 2026. From staffing challenges and rising expenses to burnout and big leadership transitions, they share what they are seeing behind the scenes with real practices. If you want clarity, stability, and a plan for navigating uncertainty, this conversation will help you focus on what you can control and build a business that lasts.
3 Reasons to Listen
Highlights
[00:01:31] Private practice is still viable
Success remains possible across models.
[00:02:43] Awareness, intention, attention
Three traits of stable practices.
[00:03:23] Clinician pay expectation mismatch
High pay, low caseload tension.
[00:04:14] Benefits must match revenue
Sustainability over generosity alone.
[00:05:35] Owner draws under pressure
Lifestyle creep creates hidden risk.
[00:06:56] Emergency funds are essential
Risk planning protects your practice.
[00:07:41] Something will always happen
Plan for inevitable disruptions.
[00:08:57] Ten years of steady growth
Slow growth beats flashy scaling.
[00:09:51] Strong foundations matter most
Structure supports long-term success.
[00:10:21] The power of saying no
Alignment over shiny opportunities.
[00:11:23] Advisors prevent bad decisions
Outside perspective adds clarity.
[00:13:47] Owners want to step back
Burnout driving leadership changes.
[00:14:26] Gradual clinical director transition
Shift responsibilities slowly.
[00:16:54] One-year transition timeline
Stability requires patience.
[00:17:19] Never abdicate responsibility
Stay engaged with your numbers.
[00:18:35] Protect yourself from surprises
Keep access to key systems.
[00:20:23] 2026 uncertainty ahead
Insurance and intake instability.
[00:21:16] Control what you can
Focus on efficiency and accountability.
[00:22:27] Hard conversations are necessary
Actionable steps over blame.
[00:23:29] You always have choices
Ownership means responsibility.
Resources & Links