DPT to CEO: The Podcast

Are you thinking about going cash-based but wondering if it’s actually more profitable than your $40/hour clinic job?

During this episode, we’re breaking down how much cash-based physical therapists really make per hour after overhead, admin time, and everything else that eats into your income.

Spoiler: just because you charge $150–$200 per session doesn’t mean you’re taking home that much.

We’ll walk you through real income scenarios, show you how to calculate your profit per hour (not just revenue), and explain why so many PTs end up with more freedom, control, and earning potential by switching to the cash PT business model.

If you’re tired of trading time for dollars in a packed clinic schedule and want to know what’s truly possible on your own—this one’s for you.

If you’re wondering what to charge for your cash-based physical therapy services, you’re in the right place.

During this episode, I’m breaking down the common session pricing tiers — $100, $150, $200+ — and how to actually feel confident picking the right rate for your practice. I’ll walk you through how to price evaluations, follow-up sessions, packages, and even retention programs, so you’re not just guessing or copying what someone else is doing.

Whether you're just getting started or you’re thinking about raising your rates, this will help you feel more aligned with your goals, your value, and the life you’re trying to build.

*Links to How Much Should You Charge as a Cash-Based Physical Therapist? 👇🏼

Feeling like you have to post on social media every single day just to get clients? Yeah… no thanks. During this episode, I’m sharing how I consistently attract clients to my cash-based practice without being glued to my phone or spending hours creating content. If you're a physical therapist, OT, or healthcare provider trying to grow a private practice—especially a cash-based one—this is for you.

I’ll walk you through what actually matters when it comes to social media marketing, how to make it work even if you hate posting, and how to spend way less time online without disappearing. Whether you’re just starting out or already a few years in, this approach will help you market smarter, not harder.

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If social media feels like this big scary thing you’re supposed to be doing for your cash-based practice—but you either avoid it altogether or overthink it so much that nothing gets posted—this episode is going to help.

I’m breaking down the easiest way to start showing up online without feeling like it’s a full-time job or like you have to become an Instagram influencer overnight. We’re talking about my go-to 3-post formula (yep, just 3 types of posts: educational, client wins, and a little personal storytime), how to batch and schedule your content in under 2 hours a week, and why you really only need *one* platform to start with.

If you’ve ever said, “I don’t know what to post,” or “I feel awkward on camera,” or “This all just seems like too much,” you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not doing it wrong. Let’s make this social media thing feel way more doable (and maybe even... fun?).

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In this episode of the DPT to CEO Interview Series, I’m chatting with Dennis Aguila, PT, one of our DPT to CEO business coaching program grads and the owner of Aguila Pickleball Physio in Orlando, FL. Dennis has built an incredible practice helping pickleball players stay on the court without relying on meds, surgery, or taking unnecessary time off.

We get into what pushed him to finally make the leap into business ownership, how he checks the vibe with potential patients, and the mindset shifts that helped him push past fear and scarcity.

If you're sitting on the edge, wondering if you can actually do this… this episode is for you.

How to connect with Dennis 👇🏼

So you’re thinking about starting a cash-based PT practice, but you’re like… “How much is this actually gonna cost me?” You might’ve seen blogs or posts saying $30K–$50K — and I’m here to tell you: lol, no. That’s just not it.

During this episode, I’m breaking down what it really costs to get your practice off the ground (hint: it’s way more doable than people make it sound). We’ll talk about realistic startup numbers, how different models (home-based, gym, mobile) can affect your costs, and — maybe most importantly — the sneaky hidden costs of doing it all alone or staying stuck in a job that’s draining you.

If you’re ready to ditch the clinic but not ready to spend $50K just to do it, this episode is for you.

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There are *so* many platforms out there… how do you even know where to start?! 🙃

Should you focus on Instagram for visibility, Facebook for community, or YouTube for authority? And do you really need to make long videos to see results? During this episode, I’m breaking down the strengths of each platform and how to choose the best one based on your goals. Whether you want fast engagement, trust-building, or just a smarter way to reuse content across platforms, I’ve got you covered. You’ll learn which platform works best for local cash-based PTs, how to pick a platform based on your marketing goals, and a simple way to repurpose one post or video across multiple platforms without extra work.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re posting into the void or spinning your wheels on social media, this one’s for you!

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Struggling to show up on social media because you're afraid of messing up, being judged, or not knowing what to post?

You’re not alone! So many cash-based PTs hold back for these exact reasons, but here’s the truth—your ideal clients want to hear from you, and the more you post, the easier it gets. During this episode, I’m breaking down simple strategies to help you overcome the fear of social media, from starting with text posts and stories to using easy prompts that take the stress out of what to say. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to start. Let’s get you showing up with confidence so you can grow your practice and attract the right people!

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Starting a cash-based practice takes courage, trust, and a deep sense of purpose. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Marcela Donat, PT, a passionate physical therapist working with women and children, to talk about her journey to launching her own practice. She shares what it was like to take the leap into entrepreneurship, how she navigated challenges along the way, and the mindset shifts that helped her build a business she loves. We also discuss the importance of embracing change, trusting yourself even when doubts creep in, and finding the right support system as a solopreneur.

If you’ve ever felt torn between staying in a job that feels safe and stepping into the unknown of business ownership, Marcela’s story will inspire you to push past fear and take action.

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Selling physical therapy isn’t about just being “nice”—it’s about stepping up as a leader. If you feel awkward recommending full plans of care or worry about coming off too pushy, this episode is for you.

We’re breaking down why being too accommodating can actually hold your patients back, how to confidently sell full treatment packages (without feeling salesy), and why owning your expertise leads to better results and a more successful practice. If you’re a cash based practice owner looking to up your sales game, these strategies will help you make more money while giving your patients the care they actually need!

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Running a business with ADHD is totally possible—but you gotta have the right systems in place. If you’ve ever felt like your ADHD makes it harder to stay organized, manage your time, or actually finish what you start, I get it. I’ve been there. But over time, I’ve figured out what actually works for my brain so I can run my business without constantly feeling overwhelmed or burnt out.In this episode, I’m breaking down some of my best ADHD-friendly productivity hacks—stuff that helps me get things done, avoid burnout, and actually enjoy running my business We’re talking time-blocking strategies, self-care habits, the best apps to keep you on track, and how to manage those days when your brain just does *not* want to cooperate. Plus, I’ll share a few tricks I use to make boring tasks way less painful and routines that actually stick (because let’s be real, starting new habits can be a struggle).And if you’ve ever felt like ADHD is holding you back from being a successful entrepreneur, let me tell you—ADHD can actually be a huge asset. Once you figure out how to set up your business in a way that works for you, you’ll realize how much creativity, resilience, and drive you bring to the table. It’s just about learning how to work with your brain instead of constantly fighting against it.So if you’re an ADHD entrepreneur trying to juggle all the things without completely burning out, this episode is for you!

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Running a business is challenging enough—but navigating entrepreneurship with ADHD? That’s a whole different ball game. In this episode, I’m sharing my journey of getting diagnosed with ADHD as a business owner, the signs I missed for years, and how it’s impacted my work and daily life. From constantly forgetting important tasks to hyperfocusing on the wrong things, I had no idea my struggles were actually symptoms of ADHD.Since my diagnosis, I’ve had to figure out systems to keep myself on track—both in business and life. I’ll share what’s helped me manage everything from decision fatigue to burnout, plus some mindset shifts that have made running my practice way more doable. If you’ve ever felt like your brain just works *differently*, you’re not alone.

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Join me in my latest episode as I walk you through effective business goal setting and annual planning for entrepreneurs—tailored specifically for cash based physical therapy practice owners. Let’s make this your most successful year yet! Here’s what we’ll cover: ✨ Prioritize YOU by planning vacations, rest, and personal time first. ✨ Set realistic and exciting client and revenue goals. ✨ Use the 4-16-32 rule for simple, effective marketing. ✨ Stay on track with tools like weekly resets and financial check-ins. ✨ Refine your plan with monthly and quarterly reviews. These physical therapy business strategies will help you stay focused, avoid burnout, and build a thriving practice. Let’s master your PT practice annual planning together!

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Thinking about breaking free from the corporate grind and starting your own cash-based practice? Or maybe you’ve already made the leap and want to level up in 2024? In this interview, the DPT to CEO team dives into real-life stories, lessons, and strategies that have helped us (and many others) build thriving practices and businesses. We’re covering everything from the toughest parts of starting out, what it really takes to succeed as an entrepreneur, and how to market your practice in a way that feels authentic.

We’re also chatting about the best ways to attract patients, why fewer people are asking “Do you take insurance?” and what we’re focusing on for 2025 to grow even more. Whether you’re just starting your journey or ready to scale, this is packed with actionable advice and honest conversations to help you take your practice to the next level.

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Ever feel like you’re throwing spaghetti at the wall with your marketing, hoping something sticks?

Ready to plan 3 months of content for your cash-based PT practice in 30 minutes or less? Join me as I break down the exact process I use to keep my own content organized and flowing. I'll show you just how easy it can be to get started—even if planning feels overwhelming right now.

Looking to grow your cash based practice through digital marketing? One of the easiest and most effective platforms to start with is Instagram! In this episode, I guide you step-by-step on how to kick off your marketing efforts using Instagram as your primary social platform. I explain why Instagram is my go-to recommendation and share actionable tips to help you plan, organize, and execute your content strategy like a pro. Remember, the key to any successful marketing strategy is consistency—stick with it, and watch your practice grow!

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Join me on our latest DPT to CEO interview series episode with Bethany Gettis, C.H.N.

During this episode, we dive into important aspects of a business owner mindset, finding a solid work life balance, and Bethany shares simple yet effective tips for maintaining adequate nutrition as an entrepreneur.

If you're looking to boost the nutritional aspect of your self-care as a business owner or learn more about mindset and setting boundaries for yourself, this episode is for you! Connect with Bethany at the links below 👇🏼

There is a common misconception that better marketing will automatically bring you more clients. Believe it or not, marketing alone isn't enough to grow your practice.

In this episode, we emphasize important skills and tools to bring in clients and allow you to find the time, financial, and clinical freedom.. We are going to challenge your perspective on marketing and help you live your best life.

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Today, we get into four simple strategies on how to build an audience as a cash-based therapy clinic owner. These tips will give you a realistic perspective on what it takes to succeed. We’ll debunk some common myths based on research and my own personal experiences, like the idea of overnight success and the misconception that you need a massive following to thrive. If you’re ready to build an engaged audience and create a business aligned with your life goals, this episode is for you.

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In this episode, we talk with Ray Gorman, owner of Engage Movement about the benefits of a blended client management model, combining the best of both in-person and virtual offerings. Ray shares his experience and insights on how to effectively implement this hybrid approach to enhance client engagement, improve flexibility, and scale your practice. --

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Join me as I provide an essential guide on creating a digital marketing plan for cash-based practice owners. We tackle common myths about marketing and break down a super practical marketing strategy. I'll walk you step-by-step through a plan on how to market your business. You will be able to build awareness, engage potential clients, get them to subscribe, convert them into paying clients, and turn them into advocates for your practice. Whether have been running your practice for a while or new and looking for digital marketing basics, this video is packed with actionable tips to help you fill your caseload and grow your business.

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Join me on our latest DPT to CEO interview series episode with Dr. Matt Shiver, PT. During this episode, we talk all things business including marketing and sales. Matt sheds light on how being a business owner can emulate the world of fitness and the importance of consistency in your efforts rather than focusing on the outcomes. Tune in for valuable insight that you won’t want to miss out on!

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Follow along with me during this episode as I walk through the weekly reset I complete as a business owner and the checklist that goes along with it.

The 1 hour per week I dedicate to this reset not only helps me stay on track with the tasks I have at hand, it helps me to optimize productivity throughout the week and look toward the future as a growing business.

When it comes to marketing your telehealth physical therapy practice, there are various ways to go about it, but there’s also WRONG things to do too.

During this episode, we dive into three key concepts that will NOT help set you on the right path to seeing your first paying clients.

Spoiler alert: I also give you the solution to these incorrect marketing tactics too!

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Join us during our latest DPT to CEO interview episode where we chat with Dr. Samantha Ritz, PT and racquet sports expert! Sam shares her path from healthcare burnout to the steps she took to build a thriving cash based practice. From quitting her job after speaking with Morgan about her practice aspirations to now living her dream life as a solo entrepreneur, Sam sheds light on what it takes to be a successful cash based practice owner. If you're an action taker just like Sam, this episode is for you!

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If you’re a new practice owner, it can be challenging to set structure to your day to day routine. Time freedom is a blessing, but it can also leave us overwhelmed with not knowing where to start. If you're like most of us, who have worked for another employer prior to starting your own practice, you've grown accustomed to being told what your daily schedule looks like as well as expectations to meet. In this episode we are going to talk time management tips that will help you develop consistency and routine into your days as a practice owner. Learn what you should include in your schedule and how to set your self up for success!

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Join us on our latest interview series episode as we welcome Michael Silva, physical therapist and business coach/consultant.

During this episode, we dive into Michael’s journey from staff clinician to multi-clinic practice owner, to now business coach and consultant.

He shares the ups and downs of his career, what he’s learned along the way, and gives advice on what will help someone become a successful business owner in the healthcare world. Tuen in now!

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I get asked the question "How do I tell people about my garage gym PT services?" The funny thing is, when starting a practice out of your garage, the marketing piece is not all that different from starting a brick & mortar clinic or telehealth practice.

During this episode we address one of the most common hang ups I see when someone is deciding whether or not to start a practice - they don’t feel like they know enough. I’m here to tell you that if you rely on the amount of knowledge you have and the amount of certifications you get to gauge if you’re ready, you’ll never start a practice. We all come out of school well qualified to start treating patients in a clinic setting and it doesn’t take any more than our degree and license to get us hired in the clinic. So why do we feel like we need more certifications to treat patients in the exact same way, but without working for someone else? Let’s dive into the reality of this situation. Spoiler alert - I think you should have started your practice yesterday.

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During this interview with one of my DPT to CEO graduates, Dr. Sean Vo, PT, we dive into the art of problem solving as a cash based practice owner and tips on how to start.

Sean shares his personal journey of going back to the drawing board several times, finding his true passion as a clinician, and the importance of surrounding yourself with those that support you and your dreams. Check it out now!

During this episode we discuss the logistics of what it would like to start your cash based pt practice out of your garage. Contrary to popular belief, getting started may not be as challenging as some think it is.

Morgan shares with you the basic items you'll need to get started and takes you on a virtual tour of her own garage gym set up. Get started today!

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Join me on our latest DPT to CEO interview, with cash based practice owner Kristen Schulz. Kristen specializes in physical therapy & strength coaching for runners, as well as provides business coaching services to other providers looking to work with runners. During this episode, Kristen shares with us some of her most impactful life challenges that changed her mindset and business path for the better. If you’re looking for some real-life advice from a successful business owner and inspiration for rolling with the punches life throws at you, this episode is for you!

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On the of the most common questions I hear is “How do I make the leap from working in a clinic to working for myself?” During this episode, I share my personal journey of transitioning to full time working for myself, as well as the strategy I would encourage you to take when making this journey yourself. The important thing is that you set goals for yourself and take action. If you do this, you’ll be well on your way to working full time for yourself in no time!

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Join me on another episode of DPT to CEO Interview Series! Our special guest during this episode is Jamey Schrier, physical therapist, entrepreneur, business coach, and owner of Practice Freedom U. During this interview we dive deep into all things business, mindset, and betting on yourself when considering starting a cash based practice. Jamey emphasizes the importance of being vulnerable, seeking truth, and being willing to learn about yourself in order to become the best entrepreneur you can be. He talks us through the misconceptions of "needing approval" that we all struggle with as professionals, and encourages physical therapists out there that they are experts in their field when they come out of school. Another certification isn't the answer to your business success. If you're looking for motivation and inspiration as a business owner, student, or clinician, this episode is for you!

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In this episode, we are talking through how to create and design a vision board that will actually WORK to help you accomplish your goals. This is based on the vision board designed by Karissa Wampler (check out her video on TikTok here https://shorturl.at/joMO9) I am walking you through the step-by-step process of crafting an effective vision board tailored for small business success. 🎯 Set Clear Goals: Learn how to define and prioritize your objectives to create a roadmap for success. 🖼️ Vision Board Creation: Discover the art of assembling an inspiring and motivating vision board that aligns with your aspirations. ✨ Manifestation Techniques: Explore proven techniques to enhance the manifestation power of your vision board and turn your goals into reality. 📈 Goal Setting Strategies: Gain insights into effective goal-setting strategies specifically designed for small business owners, ensuring sustainable growth and achievement. 🔗 Aligning with Your Values: Understand the importance of aligning your goals with the core values of your small business for long-term success. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, career-oriented, or just starting your new journey, this episode is your ultimate guide to leveraging the magic of vision boards for goal-setting that truly works. Listen now and embark on the path to realizing your dreams! Get the instructions here: https://shorturl.at/eBITY

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During this episode, Morgan dives into the importance of creating structure and managing time effectively, particularly for individuals running their own business, focusing on the balance between flexibility and productivity. She mentions her own personal struggles, battling ADHD, and her efforts to adopt habits that foster success. She emphasizes the benefits of setting clear boundaries and schedules, utilizing tools like Google Calendar to allocate time for various tasks and activities, and integrating breaks and rewards into the workflow to maintain motivation and avoid burnout. By prioritizing tasks, setting realistic goals, and adhering to a structured schedule, solo business owners can enhance productivity, maintain work-life balance, and achieve long-term success.

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Today's interview features one of my business coaching clients and dear friend, Zachary Grin. Zach is the owner and operator or Rethink Physical Therapy providing physical therapy services to patients with functional neurological disorders (FND) in New York and New Jersey. Zach shares his journey that led him to where he is today, providing PT services to a population he witnessed receive poor quality care during his time in the hospital clinical setting. Discover how Zach overcame challenges, embraced a "learner's mindset," and is operating a thriving practice providing high quality care to a population he is passionate about helping.

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Join us as we dive into Q&A following our Ditch the Grind Webinar and touch on our DPT to CEO Business Coaching Program! During this episode, we'll cover got topics that transpired from our Ditch the Grind Webinar, which is also available now as a free training! Morgan answers critical questions that could help you feel confident in starting your cash based practice today. BONUS: We will also be discussing our DPT to CEO Business Coaching Program, including what it is, what it costs, and how it could help you go from DPT to CEO of your very own cash based practice! Tune in now to get your burning questions answered! Ditch healthcare burnout and get started on your path to business ownership today! Sign up for our free Ditch the Grind training available here: https://www.morganmeese.com/ditchthegrind

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During this episode we dive into the importance of the "KLT Framework" and I share stories of practice owners who have had great success with implementing this critical piece to starting your own business.

If you're looking for a foundational concept for starting your practice and building your caseload in no time, this episode is for you! *Sign up for the FREE Ditch the Grind training here: https://www.morganmeese.com/ditchthegrind

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