The Uncaged Clinician

In this episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast, host David Bayliff shares a powerful message for clinicians who are thinking about starting a practice — and for those who already have. If you've been wondering: "Is entrepreneurship really for me?" "What if I fail?" "What if people say no?" "What if I'm not good enough?" This conversation is for you. David breaks down three critical principles that separate thriving practice owners from those who stay stuck: 1. Run Your Practice Your Way Stop chasing everyone else's blueprint. Clarity about your end goal creates discernment. Wise counsel should refine your vision — not replace it. 2. Seek the No's "No" is not rejection — it's repetition. It's feedback. It's refinement. Often, no simply means "not right now" or "I need more clarity." Entrepreneurs who win are the ones who aren't afraid to hear it. 3. Mindset Matters: Blue Ocean vs. Red Ocean Operate from abundance, not scarcity. Celebrate competitors. Raise up leaders. Create a culture where creativity thrives instead of tension and comparison. David also shares personal stories of rejection, imposter syndrome, failing forward, and the long road to becoming a physical therapist — proving that facts don't define your truth. If you've been sitting on the fence… If you're in a tough season… If small beginnings feel discouraging… Remember: You can't see the view if you don't try climbing. If you're exploring whether starting or growing your own practice is the right next step, schedule a no-pressure Growth Strategy Call at: 👉 uncagedclinician.com/schedule Share this episode with a colleague who needs the encouragement.

Most clinicians think sales happen in one moment—the yes or no at the start. But what if selling is actually happening at every single visit? In this episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast, David Bayliff breaks down a powerful truth: Clarity beats charisma—almost every time. We dive into why enthusiasm and likability alone don't create buy-in, why patients say "no" when they're confused (not when it's about price), and how confidence in a clear plan builds trust throughout the entire plan of care. You'll learn: Why relying on charisma can actually cost you clients How confusion—not cost—is the real reason patients hesitate What clarity really sounds like in patient conversations How to explain the plan of care in a way patients actually understand When charisma does matter—and how to use it the right way If you've ever thought, "People like me… so why aren't they saying yes?"—this episode is for you. Pull up a chair and learn how to sell with calm confidence, clear direction, and ethical authority. Listen in and start converting clarity into trust.

Never Fall in Love With Your Business… Really? Why does that advice feel so uncomfortable? In this episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast, host Kevin DeGroot wrestles with a piece of advice that stopped him in his tracks: "Never fall in love with your business." At first glance, it feels counterintuitive—especially for clinicians and helping professionals who are taught to lead with passion and purpose. So why does it rub us the wrong way? And more importantly… is it actually good advice? Kevin unpacks the tension between passion and pragmatism, exploring what it means to love what you do without becoming emotionally attached to the vehicle of your business. He dives into the difference between loving the business itself versus loving the impact, outcomes, and opportunities it creates—and how confusing the two can lead to burnout, poor decision-making, or missed opportunities. In this episode, we explore: Why "never fall in love with your business" feels so unsettling The danger of tying your identity too closely to your business How passion can both fuel growth and cloud judgment Why your business is a tool, not the destination How staying objective can protect you from burnout and stagnation This isn't a black-and-white answer episode—it's an invitation into a deeper conversation. One that challenges soundbite advice and asks you to think more critically about how emotion, logic, passion, and purpose should show up in your business decisions. If you've ever felt torn between loving your work and staying clear-headed as an owner, this episode is for you. The Uncaged Clinician Podcast — where we think differently, do differently, and go countercultural to uncage clinicians and revitalize healthcare.

In this episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast, host David Bayliff breaks down the 3 non-negotiables for predictable practice growth—and why trying to "do everything" is often the very thing holding clinic owners back. Many practice owners say their leads come from "everywhere," but in reality, that usually means nothing is optimized, owned, or scalable. David unpacks why predictable growth requires clarity, intentionality, and systems—not hustle or luck. You'll learn: Why every growing clinic needs at least one primary lead source that is predictable, measurable, and intentional How spreading your marketing across too many channels keeps your practice average The power of one clear message—who you help, the problems you solve, and why your clinic must exist Why adding services, populations, or team members too early can dilute growth How having one solid follow-up system can dramatically improve conversions without more leads Why speed, consistency, and personalization win over being "loud" in marketing If you're a clinic owner looking to simplify growth, improve conversions, and build a practice that scales with confidence—not chaos—this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and learn how to create predictable growth by doing fewer things better.

Has your clinic matured… but your marketing hasn't? In this episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast, host David Bayliff speaks directly to the established practice owner who feels like their marketing efforts are busy—but not effective. Many clinic owners continue marketing like a startup long after their practice has grown. The result? Confusion, burnout, flat revenue, and stalled growth. In this conversation, David breaks down why marketing must evolve as your clinic evolves—and how clarity, not more activity, is the real growth lever. You'll learn: The key difference between startup marketing and established-practice marketing Why visibility matters early—but clarity and trust drive growth later The 3 levels of marketing maturity: Activity-based marketing (busy, reactive, exhausting) System-based marketing (focused, repeatable, efficient) Brand-driven marketing (aligned, scalable, trust-building) How unclear messaging creates objections—and costs you real revenue Why consistency beats creativity when it comes to sustainable growth What branding actually is (and why it's not your logo or colors) If your marketing feels heavy, scattered, or stuck—and your growth has plateaued—this episode will help you identify bottlenecks, refocus your message, and choose one clear marketing priority to work on over the next 90 days. Whether you're an established clinic owner or a newer practice planning for the future, this episode will challenge you to ask one powerful question: Has your marketing matured with your clinic? Tune in, reflect, and start marketing with intention.

What if understanding risk actually gave you more freedom to grow your practice—not more fear? In this episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast, host David Bayliff sits down with Dr. Michael Uzar, PT, founder of Rehab Risk Consulting, for a powerful conversation on risk management, business ownership, and non-traditional career paths for clinicians. Michael shares his journey from PTA to PT to health system risk manager—and how those same clinical skills translate into protecting practices from liability, licensure issues, and reputation damage. Together, they break down what risk management really is, why it matters for rehab business owners, and how proactive communication and strong relationships can reduce the likelihood of lawsuits and patient fallout. You'll also learn: Why most clinicians overestimate risk—and how that fear can stall growth The difference between liability insurance and true risk management Common blind spots for practice owners (HIPAA, social media, informed consent, patient termination, and more) How transparency, apology, and trust can protect both patients and your business Why clinicians' skills are far more transferable than they think—and how to step into non-clinical roles with confidence Whether you're a new or seasoned practice owner—or a clinician exploring non-traditional paths—this episode will help you think like a risk manager without becoming paralyzed by fear. Learn more about Michael's upcoming CEU courses, certifications, and consulting at RehabRiskConsulting.com or email Michael directly at muzar@rehabriskconsulting.com You can also follow Michael on Instagram at @rehab_risk_consulting As always, if this episode brought you value, share it with a fellow clinician or business owner—and help more professionals break free from the cage. At UNCAGED CLINICIAN, we offer short term guidance to help you to get started in your practice or to help the seasoned owner problem sovle through a particular challenge. Schedule a call with us to learn more at uncagedclinician.com/schedule Be sure to check out resources we have available on-line at uncagedclinician.com

As we kick off 2026, the Uncaged Clinician Podcast is setting the tone for intentional growth—for you, your team, and your practice. In this episode, host David Bayliff dives into one of the most underutilized yet powerful tools in healthcare business growth: client and team feedback loops. Caring about your patients isn't enough—clarity comes from understanding the client experience from their perspective, not just your own. You'll learn: Why most practice owners assume things are going well—until patients drop off How feedback loops shift your business from reactive to proactive The 3 essential components of an effective feedback loop: Collection, Communication, and Correction How to turn client feedback into actionable team growth (without blame or defensiveness) Simple, intentional ways to collect feedback that actually drives change Why strong feedback loops create raving fans, stronger teams, and a business that's easier to lead David also shares how feedback loops help align your daily operations with your mission, values, and vision—so your team understands what excellent care truly looks like from the client's point of view. If you've ever wondered why patients stop scheduling, why retention dips, or why your team feels stuck, this episode will challenge how you think about growth and give you a practical framework to move forward. Ready to go deeper? Learn more about Uncaged University or the 6-Week Push Coaching Program by scheduling a call at uncagedclinician.com/schedule.

As we close out 2025, Kevin DeGroot and David Bayliff sit down for an honest, reflective conversation about what this year has really required of clinicians, business owners, and leaders. This isn't a highlight-reel episode. It's a grounded discussion about mental fatigue, seasons of change, identity versus titles, and why building a business gets exponentially harder when life itself is demanding so much of your energy. In this episode, Kevin and David unpack: Why mindset and mental health matter more than ever when building a business How seasons of change force us back to fundamentals—and why that's not a step backward The difference between who you are and what you do (identity vs. identifiers) Why "simple" and "boring" businesses often lead to the most sustainable and fulfilling lives How defining success for yourself—not society—can change everything If you've felt tired, overwhelmed, or quietly questioning whether the grind is worth it, this episode will meet you where you are and remind you that faithful progress in the mundane is often what sets you up for long-term success. 🎧 Listen now and reflect with us as we prepare for what's next.

In a Challenging Season, Don't Quit! If you're an entrepreneur or clinician and this year hasn't gone the way you hoped, you're not alone—and this episode is for you. As the year comes to a close, many business owners find themselves discouraged, exhausted, and questioning whether it's worth continuing. In this episode of The Uncaged Clinician Podcast, David Bayliff speaks directly to entrepreneurs who feel stuck, behind, or tempted to quit. David shares five practical and encouraging reminders to help you regain perspective, renew your energy, and keep moving forward when things feel heavy. From remembering the courage it took to start, to shifting from short-term frustration to a long-term mindset, this episode is a powerful reminder that a tough season does not define your calling—or your future. You'll be encouraged to: Recognize the courage and grit you already possess Reflect on how far you've come (even if it doesn't feel like enough) Reconnect with your "why" and what's truly at stake Stop despising small beginnings and play the long game Embrace rest as a necessary part of sustainable growth If you're feeling worn down, discouraged, or questioning your next step, this episode will remind you why you started—and why quitting now may cost you the very freedom you're working toward. Make the next 90 days count. Apply to UNCAGED UNIVERSITY and receive the roadmap, plus optional 1:1 support by clicking the link below. Book your APPLICATION CALL: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore our programs and other offerings at uncagedclinician.com Tune in, get encouraged, and remember: don't quit—you may be closer than you think.

Most clinicians are great at caring for patients—but struggle to understand why and how they actually get paid as business owners. In this episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast, Kevin DeGroat breaks down a practical, clinician-friendly approach to money using an adapted Profit First framework designed specifically for service-based practices where the owner wears every hat. You'll learn why "whatever's left in the bank" is a dangerous way to pay yourself, how to separate your roles as owner, clinician, administrator, and growth leader, and why not all hours in your business are worth the same. Kevin explains: Why bank-balance accounting leads to overspending and underpaying yourself How to think about pay differently as an owner vs. a treating clinician Why administrative work should be paid at a different rate than patient care How understanding role-based pay makes hiring easier (and less emotional) When it actually makes sense to stop seeing patients altogether If you're a solopreneur—or planning to hire your first admin or clinician—this episode will help you build financial clarity, peace, and a sustainable growth plan. 👉 Want help structuring your finances the right way? Book a Growth Strategy Call using the link in the show notes. uncagedclinician.com/schedule

Resource-Based Marketing: Choosing the Right Strategy for the Practice You Have Today In this solo episode, Kevin breaks down one of the most important — and most misunderstood — principles in building a thriving cash-based practice: resource-based marketing. Instead of chasing every shiny strategy, Kevin explains why the best marketing plan is the one that aligns with the resources you actually have in abundance right now — whether that's time, money, relationships, or skill set. Using real client examples, Kevin shows how two practice owners with completely different resources require completely different marketing approaches — and how choosing the wrong strategy leads to frustration, wasted money, and inconsistent caseloads. You'll learn how your resources evolve over time, why your marketing must shift as your business grows, and how to avoid the classic roller-coaster of feast-and-famine patient volume. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why there is no one-size-fits-all marketing strategy for healthcare practice owners How to identify whether you're time-rich, relationship-rich, financially-rich, or skill-set-rich Why some practitioners build full caseloads without ever spending a dollar on ads When Facebook ads, PPC, and paid strategies actually make sense — and when they're a terrible idea The hidden danger of relying on time-heavy strategies as your practice grows How to evolve from time & energy marketing to financial & systems marketing as your caseload expands Who This Episode Is For: Practice owners who feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unclear about which marketing strategy will actually produce consistent results — and who want a principle-based approach instead of cookie-cutter tactics. Ready to Build a Marketing Plan That Fits You? If this episode resonates and you want support crafting a strategy based on your actual resources and strengths, reach out to the Uncaged Clinician team. We'd love to help you build a plan that drives more clients, more revenue, and more impact. Go to uncagedclinican.com for more information

Have you ever felt "successful" on paper but completely misaligned inside? What would it take for you to finally choose the version of your career that actually feels like yours? Hey UNCAGED CLINICIANS, it's David Bayliff here, and I'm excited to hang out with you for another episode of the Uncaged Clinician Podcast. Today's a fun one! I'm joined by the incredible Mitchell Hall, owner of Rhythm Holistic Manual Therapy. Mitchell's a guy who went from regional director of a booming PT company to carving out his own path in the world of holistic manual therapy. And trust me… you're going to feel this one. We're diving into calling, fear, faith, and what it takes to say yes to the path that's meant for you. Here's what we dive into in this episode: Mitchell's transition from regional director to entrepreneur How fascial counterstrain transformed his approach to care The emotional and mental challenges of leaving a stable job How to identify when your values no longer align with your work The importance of faith, clarity, and long-term vision Practical advice for clinicians who want to start their own practice Why objective counsel matters more than ever in entrepreneurship If there's one thing Mitchell teaches us, it's this: purpose has a way of pushing you forward even when fear tries to pull you back. Entrepreneurship in healthcare isn't easy, but it's gratifying when it aligns with who you are and how you want to serve. I hope his journey inspires you to trust the voice within you, seek wise counsel, and take bold steps toward the calling that has been nudging at your heart. Uncaged Hack: "If you're fearful, don't be afraid to get counsel from someone who's going to keep it very objective." —Mitchell Hall Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Are your outreach efforts feeling more like dead ends than real connections? What if the problem isn't what you're doing but how you're approaching people? Hey, it's David Bayliff. If you've dropped off lunches, left notes, and followed up only to hear crickets, you are not alone. In this episode, I break down why those plays miss and the simple shift that opens doors with gatekeepers and ideal clients: make it about them, not you. Here's what we dive into in this episode: The common frustrations clinicians face when trying to engage with gatekeepers Why traditional "drop-by tactics" often fail What it means to "serve first" in real-world scenarios How to nurture leads without feeling salesy Practical ways to provide value and build trust Adjusting expectations of what "success" looks like in outreach I want you to remember this: relationships take intention. When you stop trying to get something and start aiming to give something, everything changes your results, your conversations, and the energy you bring into each interaction. These small shifts compound over time, and they're what will ultimately help your practice grow. Uncaged Hack: "The shortcoming of these strategies is that they create a relationship that is essentially one-way transactional." —David Bayliff Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Bad first inning? Bad quarter? Seven days later, the Dodgers were champions. Here's how to engineer your own comeback. David Bayliff pulls bite-sized business lessons from the 2025 World Series (Dodgers vs. Blue Jays). Big swings, clutch moments in Games 3 and 7, and unexpected wins become takeaways on resilience, focus, and perspective. You will learn how to stay determined, adapt under pressure, and maintain a strong belief, especially when the score looks lopsided. Here's what we dive into in this episode: World Series Recap (quick context) Game Three Thriller Key Players & Moments Unexpected Heroes Turning Around a Bad Start Maintaining Focus Under Pressure Believing in Yourself Never Too Old to Be Awesome Uncaged Hack: "You're going to get your big hit. Stay sharp and keep stepping up to the plate." —David Bayliff Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Drowning in charting? See how Jane APP AI Scribe turns live session audio into clean notes so you finish on time and go home on time. David Bayliff and co-host Kevin DeGroot sit down with Erin Hill from Jane to unpack AI Scribe, Jane's new AI note-taking tool. We cover how it records sessions and drafts clean, structured notes so clinicians can focus on patients instead of paperwork. Kevin shares his beta experience and the real hours he's saving each week, plus tips for getting started fast. Here's what we dive into in this episode: How AI Scribe works and why it's a game changer for clinicians Kevin's first hand experience and workflow transformation Legal and consent best practices for recording sessions Tips for introducing AI tools to patients with ease What's next for Jane and future AI Scribe updates At the end of the day, we all want tools that help us, not replace us. That's exactly what AI Scribe does. It gives clinicians back their time while keeping patient care front and center. So, if you're ready to ditch the endless charting and bring more energy to your sessions, this episode's for you. Uncaged Hack: "We're not in search of perfection here. We're in search of progress." —Erin Hill From Jane APP Book your free Jane demo to cut admin time this week: https://janesoftware.partnerlinks.io/c5i3p91u17t0 Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Felt like you're running on a treadmill, putting in all the effort but going nowhere? What's that one thing you know you should be doing, but you just can't seem to start? What's up, everyone? I'm your host, David Bayliff, and welcome back to the Uncaged Clinician podcast! Today, I'm sharing the mic with my great friend and team member, Hannah DeGroot, and we're diving into a topic that hits close to home for everyone: that feeling of being absolutely stuck. We're getting super honest about the universal experience of feeling trapped, whether it's in your business, your career, or just life in general. It's an easy place to get to, and honestly, none of us are immune to feeling stuck. It's time we talk about it openly. Here's what we dive into in this episode: The common culprits that lead to feeling trapped (and why you're not alone). Why obsessing over the outcome can actually sabotage your progress. The profound importance of having a support system to lean on. How to harness gratitude and humility to change your internal perspective. My personal sports analogy for focusing on execution over the result. Turning your feeling of resistance into curiosity to start moving forward. We break down what it means to be stuck and, more importantly, how to get yourself moving again. My challenge to you is to identify just one thing you can take control of right now and to ask yourself: "Where are you resisting, and how can you turn that resistance into curiosity?" We're all on this journey together, and remember, there's always purpose and growth to be found, even in the "stuck" seasons. Uncaged Hack: "It's incredibly frustrating at best. It's frustrating. I think worse. It's really painful to be desiring something that you don't have and to feel trapped in that." —Hannah DeGroot Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Have you felt this before, walking into a room and instantly feeling like you didn't belong? What if the key to confidence isn't waiting until you feel ready but choosing to step in anyway? David Bayliff and his co-host today, Hannah DeGroot, tackle the confidence gap, imposter syndrome, feeling underqualified, and how to move anyway. Hear practical mindset tips from Hannah's coaching and real stories about taking action before you "feel ready." Walk away with simple steps to build confidence one decision at a time. Here's what we dive into in this episode: Understanding the confidence gap and why it's so common How imposter syndrome and comparison syndrome sneak into your professional growth The truth about building confidence through practice and repetition The concept of "borrowed belief" and how it empowers you Why discomfort is a sign you're moving toward growth Remember this: feeling underqualified doesn't mean you are underqualified. The only way to bridge the confidence gap is to walk across it one brave step at a time. Let this episode remind you that your experiences, perspective, and voice have real value. You belong in every room you choose to walk into. Uncaged Hack: "Are you comparing yourself to find worth, or are you comparing yourself to find motivation?" —Hannah DeGroot Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Are you starting your own practice and wondering how to set yourself up for long-term success? Or maybe you’re already in business but struggling with boundaries, self-awareness, and growth? If so, this episode is definitely for you. Kevin DeGroot sits down with his wife, Hannah, to talk mindset and practicals for new owners clarity, confidence, and a sustainable path. They highlight one powerful tool most skip: boundaries. Learn how setting them early prevents burnout, reduces resentment, and keeps your business (and life) steady. In this episode, they'll cover the following topics with you: Why boundaries are essential to prevent burnout The balance between financial safety and complacency How self-awareness shapes leadership and business success The role of communication and connection in building a practice Why embracing humility and a growth mindset makes the journey smoother Starting a practice is both exciting and challenging, but the right mindset can make all the difference. If you take away anything from this episode, let it be this: growth doesn’t come from perfection it comes from clarity, humility, and intentional action. Hannah and I can’t wait for you to listen, reflect, and hopefully feel a little more confident about your next steps. Uncaged Hack: "It is way, way, way easier to flex on boundaries that you've set rather than it is to try and tighten boundaries that were too flexible in the beginning." —Hannah DeGroot Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Ever felt "comfortable" but called to more? What would it take to start your own practice? David Bayliff chats with PT Zach Schmucker about leaving a stable job to launch ReKinect Physical Therapy in Florida. Zach gets real about the fears, early wins, and mistakes, as well as the lessons that helped him transition from employee to owner. If you’re eyeing the leap, this is your nudge. In this episode, they'll cover the following topics with you: Zach’s journey from Indiana to Florida, and how he started ReKinect Physical Therapy The spark that pushed him toward entrepreneurship Overcoming fear and finding peace in uncertainty The role of identity and faith in building a business Recognizing your true value as a clinician Key lessons for anyone considering launching their own practice This conversation is packed with wisdom and encouragement. If you’ve been sitting on the edge of a big decision, Zach’s story might be the push you need to trust the process and take that first step. The big lesson? Growth is never comfortable, but it’s always worth it when you’re stepping into who you were meant to be. Uncaged Hack: "Growth oftentimes is painful, right? You're not going to grow unless you're challenged." —Zach Schmucker Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101

Why do some rise under pressure while others stall, and how do athletes and founders train that grit? David Bayliff sits down with business coach and former pro athlete Matt Phillips to show why confidence is built, not born. They cover simple ways to train it daily, how it drives leadership, communication, and accountability, and how lessons from sport carry into business and life. If you want to show up, make tough calls, and lead better, this one’s for you. In this episode, they'll cover the following topics with you: Why confidence is the #1 skill for success The connection between sports and business leadership How to reset when your confidence takes a hit Strategies for building confidence through practice and reflection Why relationships and community fuel mental toughness I want you to remember this: confidence is not about perfection, it’s about belief. Belief that you can accomplish the task, no matter the challenge. If you start from that place, good things will happen. Uncaged Hack: "I believe the number one skill you have to build and continue to grow and develop throughout your entire life to be successful at anything is confidence." —Matt Phillips Make the next 90 days count. Apply to Uncaged University and receive the roadmap, plus optional one-on-one support by clicking the link below. Book your application call: https://uncagedclinician.com/schedule Explore the program: https://uncagedclinician.com/university-101