Is Practice Ownership worth the stress?
What’s the most difficult thing you have to do as a practice owner?
Thinking about starting your own squat practice?
How long does it really take before you see profit, and what sacrifices do you need to make along the way?
In this episode, Jaz is joined by Dr. Shabnam Zai to unpack the real highs and lows of running a dental practice. From the loss of control as an associate, to the resilience needed during COVID, to the challenges of leadership and managing a team—nothing is sugar-coated here.
They also tackle the big money question: when does a squat practice finally become profitable, and is it worth the grind in those first few years?
If you’ve ever wondered whether practice ownership is for you—or why it might not be—this episode will give you the clarity (and reality check) you need.
Protrusive Dental Pearl: “DO NOT COMPARE YOUR WORK TO WHAT YOU SEE ON SOCIAL MEDIA”
Most cases shown online are the very best results, done under perfect conditions by clinicians with thousands of hours of experience.
Instead of letting that trigger self-doubt or imposter syndrome, use it as inspiration: respect it, aspire toward it, and occasionally achieve it — but remember that real-world dentistry is different.
Need to Read it? Check out the Full Episode Transcript below!
Key Takeaways
Highlights of this episode:
Enjoyed this episode? You might also like Treatment Co-Ordinators – Are They Right For Your Practice? – IC043
#PDPMainEpisodes #CareerDevelopment #BeyondDentistry
Connect with Dr. Shabnam:
Website → shabnamzai.com
Instagram → @drshabnamzai
This episode is eligible for 1 CE credit via the quiz on Protrusive Guidance.
This episode meets GDC Outcomes:
B: Effective management of self and working with others in the dental team.
AGD Subject Code: 550 PRACTICE MANAGEMENT AND HUMAN RELATIONS
Aim: To provide dentists with an honest, practical insight into practice ownership—particularly squat practices—covering the challenges, rewards, financial realities, and mindset shifts needed for success.
Dentists will be able to –
2. Describe the key challenges of practice ownership, including compliance, leadership, and financial planning.
3. Outline the realistic financial commitments involved in setting up a squat practice.