Aesthetic Appeal

This interview originally aired on the Practiceland podcast presented by PatientFi.Selling the practice is a big deal, but don’t panic just yet – you’re probably not getting fired! Doctors sell for a variety of reasons, and freaking out at first is normal. But a growth mindset beats a scarcity mindset every time and this is your chance to grow.An advocate for doctors through complex financial transactions, Bill Walker shares what you should and shouldn’t stress about when private equity steps in, which staff they will want to keep, and what new benefits you can expect from being part of a larger organization. Whether this big change is happening to you now or there’s even a hint of it on the horizon, hear what you might expect throughout the long process of acquisition and the key performance indicators that make investors take notice (and want to promote you). GUESTBill WalkerFounder & CEO of Aesthetic BrokersBill Walker is a seasoned mergers & acquisitions executive and former Marine. As the founder & CEO of Aesthetic Brokers, he helps medical spas, cosmetic dermatology practices, and plastic surgery centers find investors or sell. With experience in due diligence and M&A, Bill has facilitated deals worth millions.Connect with Bill on LinkedInAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

What do you get when you mix a Navy officer who served as an ER doc in Afghanistan and a med spa owner injecting Botox in a barn? You get Dr. Amy Hubert, whose path to aesthetics is anything but ordinary. After treating thousands of casualties in combat zones, Dr. Hubert never imagined she'd one day be running a wildly successful aesthetic practice in Georgia. Her first med spa attempt during a Navy tour in Florida flopped, but the lessons stuck. Years later, what started as a tiny setup in her husband’s barn next to their old racquetball court quickly turned into a local phenomenon as a casual idea between friends became a booming business known as the Beauty Barn.Now with locations in Canton and Milton, The Beauty Barn is known for more than great results—it’s known for heart. The original team is still together, and they genuinely enjoy working (and playing) as a family.Find out how Dr. Hubert built one of the most unique aesthetic practices in the South, and why her story is just getting started.GUESTAmy Hubert, MDOwner & Medical Director, The Beauty BarnDr. Amy Hubert is a former Navy warfare officer and emergency medicine physician who treated thousands of trauma patients in Afghanistan before trading combat boots for cosmetic injectables. Now the founder of The Beauty Barn in Georgia, she’s built a thriving aesthetics practice that started—literally—in a barn on her property. Known for her no-nonsense leadership style, tight-knit team, and deep commitment to community, Dr. Hubert brings military precision and heart to every treatment.Learn more about The Beauty BarnFollow The Beauty Barn on Instagram @tbbmedspaAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

This interview originally aired on the Aesthetically Speaking podcast presented by Nextech.When it comes to selling your practice, many doctors are going at it alone.  But deals can get emotional, and someone needs to give clear-headed advice to protect you and maximize your return.Bill Walker and Tyler Terry discuss:What the top aesthetic entrepreneurs are doing differentlyHow to prepare yourself now, so you’re ready to sell when the time comesStrategies to scale faster and improve operational performanceWhy investors are snapping up aesthetic practices and what they’re looking forThe key elements of due diligence and what to expect from buyersWhat questions buyers typically ask post-acquisitionCurrent market values for aesthetic practicesCritical insights for doctors being approached by private equityWhy it’s risky to rely on just one modality or providerThis episode was recorded live at the 2024 ASPS meeting in San Diego, California. About Bill WalkerBill Walker is a seasoned mergers & acquisitions executive and former Marine. As the founder & CEO of Aesthetic Brokers, he helps medical spas, cosmetic dermatology practices, and plastic surgery centers find investors or sell. With experience in due diligence and M&A, Bill has facilitated deals worth millions. Connect with Bill on LinkedInAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Chris Heiler, founder and CEO of Flycatcher, is redefining men's wellness just west of Austin, Texas, with a med spa experience that feels more like old Hollywood luxury than a medical office. He shares how he got into the aesthetic industry and why he set out to create a space where men feel just as valued as women in the world of medical aesthetics.Already running a marketing agency, Chris knew he wanted to help men. After meeting his wife, an aesthetician and laser tech, he leveraged her expertise to learn about treatments. Visiting med spas for his own laser treatments, he quickly discovered men were an afterthought. With his marketing background, he recognized the gap and knew men needed their own space.Inspired by success and style (and his own “bougie” taste), Chris embraced an art deco theme with masculine colors. Every room is named after a Hollywood icon, the music is classic Sinatra, and the TVs play James Bond, not Botox ads. Determined to rewrite the med spa experience for men, he did the opposite of everyone else.Chris talks about the challenges of being a male, non-physician founder in the aesthetics industry and the hurdles of building a brand-new concept to the far west outskirts of Austin from scratch. He shares who Flycatcher is for and what’s next for his vision of men’s aesthetics.GUESTChris HeilerFounder and CEO of FlycatcherDrawing on his experience as the founder of Landscape Leadership marketing agency, Chris built Flycatcher, a medical aesthetics practice in Austin, Texas, designed specifically for men who want to look their best.Learn more about Flycatcher Connect with Chris on LinkedInAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Meet the founders of Referral Lab, a transformational SaaS platform that maximizes the value of dental referrals and improves communication and performance between teams, referring dentists, and patients.Cameron Full, Dr. Jason Stoner, and Dr. Michael Seda highlight what sets Referral Lab apart, from smart scheduling to automated follow-ups and task management.Drs. Seda and Stoner share how using Referral Lab has helped strengthen their professional relationships and improve patient care, outperforming traditional dental EMRs with real-time data and seamless communication, keeping the entire practice connected.Learn more about Referral LabGUESTSCameron FullCo-Founder of Referral LabCameron Full, co-founder of Referral Lab, is a strategic problem-solver with expertise in business management and digital solutions. He combines leadership, creativity, and technology to drive success across various industries.Connect with Cameron on LinkedInJason Stoner, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral Lab With over 22 years in private practice, Dr. Jason Stoner is passionate about dentistry’s blend of business, leadership, and patient care. He values strong core values, academic excellence, and a thriving team culture.Michael Seda, DDSPeriodontist and Co-Developer of Referral LabDr. Michael Seda is a laser-trained periodontist serving Marin County and San Francisco. As part of an elite group offering FDA-cleared laser gum treatment, he focuses on patient-centered care, advanced technology, and personalized treatment plans.Follow Dr. Seda on Instagram @sedaperioAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Julie Davis shares her firsthand experience selling her practice, from the challenges of finding the right buyer to the importance of preparation and business culture. For Julie, there wasn’t an instant match when it came to selling her practice. She opens up about the ups and downs of the process, why finding the right culture fit is key, and how hiring a broker the third time around turned out to be one of her best decisions. Find out: What led Julie to sell her med spa in the first place How to start preparing now if selling is in your future Why slowing down and defining your culture is crucial Why it’s going to feel like you have 2 full-time jobs while going through diligence Why working with a broker who truly understands this space makes all the difference The key factors she considered when vetting potential buyers What makes a med spa attractive to investors Why you shouldn’t take your eye off your team in the process Why you should make sure your practice management system is up to par before thinking about selling About Julie Davis, Founder & Owner of Pura Vida Body & Mind Spa, Inc.Julie Davis is the founder & owner of Pura Vida Body & Mind Spa in Fleming Island, Florida. With over 20 years in healthcare, she is a serial entrepreneur and has founded a professional skincare line and Physicians First Practice Solutions, Inc. healthcare consulting firm. She also founded two non-profits, including Reconstructing Dreams, Inc., which provides free cosmetic services to victims of violent crimes. Learn more about Julie DavisLearn more about Pura Vida Body & Mind SpaConnect with Julie on LinkedInAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Before you sell your aesthetic practice, you need to know what you're getting into. Bill Walker, Virgil Ochoa, and Michael Ludwig break down the must-know details of exit strategies so you don’t do anything you’ll regret. Get the legal and financial essentials, the key numbers that determine your practice’s value, and hear how the industry’s evolving regulations could impact your sale.Find out:Why the type of deal you choose can make or break your saleThe key financial metrics that determine your practice’s worthHow to plan ahead to avoid headaches and lost money during the saleWhat EBITDA really means and why it’s used in business valuationThe crucial role of inventory tracking in keeping your financials airtightWhy hiring the right advisors can save you time, stress, and moneyPro tips to set yourself up for a smooth and profitable exitAbout Virgil Ochoa, Member at Dykema Law FirmWhen it comes to mergers and acquisitions for medical professionals, Virgil Ochoa at Dykema is a go-to advisor. He specializes in working with dentists, endodontists, oral surgeons, veterinarians, and managed service organizations.  Virgil brings decades of experience to the table and understands the emotional connection these professionals have with their practices.  He's skilled at navigating the complexities of growing or selling a business.Connect with Virgil on LinkedInLearn more about DykemaAbout Michael Ludwig, Partner at Cherry BekaertMichael, a Partner in Deal Advisory Services at Cherry Bekaert, is a go-to advisor for businesses of all sizes, from early-stage ventures to established middle-market companies. He provides strategic, financial, and operational leadership. His expertise spans a range of industries, including healthcare, technology, life sciences, industrials, and government contractors.Connect with Michael on LinkedInLearn more about Cherry BekaertAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Brian Colao joins Bill Walker to discuss the shifting world of medical aesthetics, unpacking the legal and investment trends shaping the industry.Drawing from his extensive background in healthcare law, Brian explains how consolidation in medical aesthetics compares to dentistry and why aligning interests in partnerships is as critical as choosing the right spouse.Hear Brian and Bill’s predictions for the future of the medical aesthetics market, including the gradual comeback of consolidation activities.Find out:How today’s economic climate is influencing consolidation trendsWhy medical aesthetics is such a hot spot for investorsThe key role of regulatory compliance for practice owners considering partnershipsThe current state of the medical aesthetics marketWhy staying ahead of market dynamics is crucial for successMore about Brian Colao, Director, DSO & MSO at DykemaBrian Colao leads Dykema's Dental Service Organizations (DSO) & Medical Service Organizations (MSO) industry groups. With over 25 years of experience in the dental sector, he's a leading authority on DSO formation, business structures, M&A, and compliance. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including corporate practice, fee splitting, advertising, laboratory, patient finance, billing, HIPAA, credentialing, licensing, marketing, and labor law regulations impacting DSOs.LinksLearn more about DykemaConnect with Brian on LinkedInAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Always looking for ways to safeguard your practice and stay ahead of potential threats? Brian King joins Bill Walker of Aesthetic Brokers to unpack the latest scandals in healthcare cyberattacks and explain why cyber liability insurance is an absolute must for protecting your practice.With healthcare data being a prime target for hackers, having the right insurance coverage can shield you from the financial fallout of a cyber incident.Find out:Eye-opening stats about cyberattacks on small practices5 practical tips to boost your cybersecurityThe potential consequences of data breachesThe benefits of working with specialized insurance brokersWhy cyber liability insurance is your practice's safety netHow ransomware can freeze your operations for a hefty priceThe serious penalties tied to HIPAA violationsMore about Brian King, Healthcare Practice Leader at TrucordiaBrian King has a lifelong passion for the insurance industry, inspired by his family's legacy. He specializes in providing tailored insurance solutions for medical businesses of all sizes, from hospitals to small practices. Brian is driven by a desire to improve coverage for healthcare professionals, including doctors, surgeons, and nurses.LinksGet a free cyber assessment from Trucordia for your practiceLearn more about PCF Insurance Services/TrucordiaConnect with Brian on LinkedInAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Brian Haloossim joins Bill Walker with insights from wealth management and the ways he and his team support highly successful aesthetic practice owners.AllianceBernstein goes beyond investment management. It’s a powerhouse for founders and entrepreneurs, adding value at every stage of the deal: before, during, and after a sale.Outside of AllianceBernstein, Brian has a personal connection to aesthetics. His wife Melissa is a trailblazer in the industry, from founding Skin Thesis in West Hollywood (soon expanding to Nashville) to creating Milaj, a clean skin care line for kids.Find out:What AllianceBernstein really does for entrepreneursThe biggest challenges aesthetic business owners faceWhat to do when $10M of capital lands in your lapAdvice for new entrepreneurs in the aesthetics worldMore about Brian Haloossim, National Senior Managing Director, Business Owners at AllianceBernsteinBrian’s career has centered on helping others succeed, from coaching Division 1 college basketball to building businesses from scratch. At AllianceBernstein, he leads a team that supports business owners with tailored pre-transaction planning, assembling key advisors and leveraging industry-leading research to maximize financial outcomes. He also connects clients with a seasoned private credit team as a potential capital source.LinksLearn more about AllianceBernsteinFollow AllianceBernstein on Instagram @alliancebernsteinConnect with Brian on LinkedInLearn more about Skin ThesisLearn more about MilajAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

On September 30, the FDA removed tirzepatide from the shortage list, creating confusion for patients and providers who rely on compounding pharmacies.Vickie Paesano, third-generation owner of Preston’s Pharmacy, a trusted pharmacy serving 27 states, shares insights as both a pharmacist and the owner of Core Aesthetic, her med spa.Bill and Vickie discuss:What some pharma reps are doing on the ground to circumvent the provider relationship and block compounded versions of tirzepatideHow the latest FDA regulations are impacting compounding pharmacies and aesthetic practicesVickie’s thoughts on navigating changing regulations from both sides of the industryVickie’s predictions on how this tug-of-war over compounding will play outLinksRead the FDA’s latest update to compounding pharmaciesLearn more about Core AestheticAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Drew Smyth, VP of mergers and acquisitions, and Christine Moore share takeaways from the 2024 Medical Spa Show in Las Vegas, including:What’s the deal with the private equity buzz?Why tracking KPIs could transform your practice’s valueHow a stable, positive team culture can catch a buyer’s eyeThe surprising risks & benefits of adding new services to your lineupWhy financial health makes or breaks a dealThe key to timing your practice sale perfectlyAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

Bill’s insider tips on avoiding common pitfalls and negotiating the best terms throughout the private equity practice acquisition process, which can take up to a year from beginning to end. Hear about the key milestones within the deal process, including:Initial consultations and signing agreementsGetting into the numbers with data analysis and collectionMarketing your practice to potential buyersNavigating due diligence and closing the dealThe timeline and what to expect from start to finishCustomizing the process for your unique goalsEven if you’re not ready to sell, learning about the deal process now can help you understand the opportunities in the aesthetics industry and prepare for the future.About Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers

As the founder & CEO of Aesthetic Brokers, Bill Walker helps medical spas, cosmetic dermatology practices, and plastic surgery centers find investors or sell. With experience in due diligence and M&A, Bill has facilitated deals worth millions.Co-host Christine Moore takes us through Bill’s experience in the healthcare world and his obsession with supporting aesthetic practice owners. Find out:What brokers actually do in the aesthetics industryWhy consolidating practices can be a game-changerHow cultural fit plays a key role in mergers and acquisitionsCommon misconceptions about private equity in healthcareWhat’s next for the aesthetics industryBill explains the challenges and opportunities aesthetic practice owners face and shares his practical advice for navigating the often-tricky world of mergers and acquisitions.Connect with Bill on LinkedInLearn more about Aesthetic BrokersAbout Aesthetic AppealAesthetic Appeal is where Aesthetic Brokers brings you the latest insights straight from Southern California. We break down what’s happening in the medical aesthetics world—especially when it comes to private equity and transactions with mergers and acquisitions that matter to you as a practice owner.Learn more about Aesthetic BrokersFollow Aesthetic Brokers on Instagram @aestheticbrokers