Please welcome clinic owner and educator Dave Leyland to The Health of Business! He pulls back the curtain on what it really took to build and scale his clinic Coast Performance Rehab. We get into smart leases, hidden build-out costs, and how to hire with practical interviews that actually reveal skill. Dave walks through culture across multiple locations, leading with transparency, and the tough lessons from insurer policy shifts that disrupted PTSW models in BC. We talk strategy for repurposing gym space, creating time freedom as an owner, and growing revenue through practitioner education like his education company Loaded Manual Therapy. Real numbers, real tradeoffs, and a clear playbook for physios who want to grow, innovate and lead.Coast Performance Rehab: https://www.coastperformancerehab.com/Loaded Manual Therapy: https://www.loadedmanualtherapy.com/Work with Danielle: https://danielleboyd.caTimestamps00:00 Welcome, setup, and Dave’s intro02:45 Family, life balance, and clinic realities06:30 Dave’s background and the origin of Coast Performance Rehab11:50 Manual therapy philosophy and integrating movement16:40 Opening clinics 1 to 4: lessons, leases, and build-out costs20:55 Advice for first-time clinic owners and starting smaller22:50 Culture, hiring for fit, and practical interviews27:35 Squamish market differences and work-life balance norms29:50 Org chart, leadership roles, and delegation35:35 Biggest challenges of ownership and people-pleasing45:00 Insurer policy shifts, PTSW impact, and clinic pivots55:10 The upside of ownership: freedom, earnings, and growth1:01:00 Clinician education and the Loaded Manual Therapy model1:08:00 Balancing clinics, education, and family1:10:00 Leadership philosophy and growing people1:12:10 What a healthy business looks like1:13:20 Where to find Dave and CoastKeywords:bc physio, PABC, Canada physio, physiotherapy business, clinic ownership, Coast Performance Rehab, Dave Leyland, Loaded Manual Therapy, BC physiotherapy, physiotherapy culture, hiring physiotherapists, practical interview physio, clinic startup costs, lease negotiation clinic, HVAC build-out costs, Squamish physio, North Vancouver physio, Kitsilano physio, kinesiology programs, PTSW insurance changes, Pacific Blue Cross physio, gym utilization clinic, clinic org chart, leadership in healthcare, mentorship for physios, manual therapy education, online physio courses, Danielle Boyd podcast
In this episode of The Health of Business, Danielle Boyd sits down with consultant and global health leader Jo-Ann Bateman, whose career spans from Canadian sport medicine and clinic operations to international work in Uganda. Together they explore how physiotherapy and allied health clinics can thrive by combining values-based leadership, data-driven decision-making, and authentic relationships with referring physicians.
They unpack:
How to use EMR data and patient feedback to guide growth and advocacy
Why relationship-based marketing outperforms traditional branding in healthcare
Lessons from global health that apply to Canadian clinic leadership
The importance of aligning your clinic’s why, culture, and community impact
How collaboration between GPs and allied health can strengthen primary care
Jo-Ann also shares insights from her nonprofit work in Uganda, her consulting practice Afya Consulting, and her new initiative building communities of practice between GPs and allied health professionals in Victoria.
Connect with Jo-Ann: afyaconsulting.ca
Connect with Danielle: danielleboyd.ca
Chapters
00:00 Creating a Change Makers Community
01:13 Jo-Ann's Journey in Healthcare
02:51 Consulting in Healthcare: A New Role
04:08 Startup Phase: Key Considerations
06:47 Vision and Values in Clinic Management
11:23 Challenges in the Healthcare Sector
14:06 Data-Driven Patient Care
18:06 Building Relationships with Referring Physicians
21:17 Advocacy and Integration in Healthcare
24:54 Marketing and Branding in Healthcare
35:33 Reflecting on Progress and Achievements
42:42 The Importance of Collaboration in Healthcare
49:14 Exploring Global Health Initiatives
56:03 The Role of Physiotherapy in Global Health
01:03:25 Cultural Perspectives in Healthcare
01:07:57 Connecting and Collaborating for Better Healthcare
Keywords:
physiotherapy business, clinic operations, EMR data, Jane App, patient outcomes, referral marketing, GP collaboration, primary care networks, allied health consulting, values based leadership, clinic KPIs, MSK care, advocacy healthcare, global health Uganda, Victoria BC, Kamloops, physio clinic startup, healthcare branding, relationship marketing, patient feedback, data driven healthcare, Canadian healthcare, community of practice
In this episode, Danielle sits down with Andrea Burton, CEO of the Physiotherapy Association of British Columbia (PABC), for a candid look at where the profession is headed. From tough negotiations with PBC and ICBC and working with WorkSafeBC to the rollout of the new Health Professions and Occupations Act, Andrea shares the wins, the challenges, and the bold advocacy needed to protect and elevate physiotherapists in BC.
Together, they unpack fee structures, MSP, ICBC treatment plans, and the politics of working with insurers, while spotlighting why it’s time for physiotherapists to step out of reactive mode and into proactive leadership. This conversation is a call to action: know your value, engage with your MLAs and be part of shaping a stronger, braver future for the profession.
Become a PABC Member: www.bcphysio.org
Work with Danielle: danielleboyd.ca
02:57 The Role of Physiotherapy in Healthcare Advocacy
05:54 Empowering Physiotherapists: The Need for Bravery
09:01 Shifting from Reactive to Proactive Approaches
11:48 Valuing Expertise: The Importance of Physiotherapy Fees
14:58 The Impact of Regulation Changes on Physiotherapy
18:05 Building Relationships with Insurers and Stakeholders
20:40 Challenges and Opportunities in Physiotherapy Practice
29:14 Understanding Scope of Practice vs. Coverage
31:53 The Impact of Insurance on Physiotherapy Fees
35:30 Negotiating Fair Rates in Physiotherapy
39:10 The Role of Physiotherapists in Urgent Care
41:35 ICBC Service Terms and Advocacy Efforts
49:07 Shifting from Reactivity to Proactivity in Physiotherapy
55:26 WorkSafe Contract Review and Future Directions
01:02:52 Addressing the Challenges of MSP and Public Access to Care
01:04:50 Navigating the Health Professions and Occupations Act
01:05:04 The Rapid Legislative Changes in Healthcare
01:08:13 The Impact of Self-Regulation on Healthcare Professions
01:10:09 Navigating the New Governance Structure
01:12:30 Understanding Anti-Discrimination Practices
01:15:18 The Challenges of the New Health Professions Act
01:19:06 The Role of Colleges in Healthcare Regulation
01:21:40 Advocacy and Communication in the Healthcare Sector
Keywords
physiotherapy, healthcare, advocacy, ICBC, WorkSafe, regulation, fees, scope of practice, professional insights, advocacy, healthcare, physiotherapy, negotiation, treatment plans, Health Professions and Occupations Act, self-regulation, compliance, professional responsibility, HPOA
Independent contractor agreements, employee models, contracts - it can all feel like a compliance maze!
In this episode, I’m breaking down the 6 key questions the CRA considers when deciding if someone is truly an Independent Contractor or if they’re actually in more of an employee relationship.I share real examples of what proper IC setups look like, where clinic owners often slide into employee territory without realizing it, and what you can do to protect yourself. This isn’t legal or accounting advice—I’m not a lawyer or accountant—but I’ve lived these challenges as a clinic owner, and I want to help you understand what’s at stake so you can make confident choices for your business.If you’ve ever wondered whether your IC agreements would hold up under an audit, or you just want to make sure your contracts are solid, this episode is for you.
Want to work together on your clinic's staffing models?
Reach out today at danielleboyd.ca/contact
Keywords
independent contractors, healthcare, physiotherapy, CRA, business model, financial risk, clinic owners, employee vs contractor, marketing, legal compliance
In this episode, Danielle discusses the complexities of direct billing in private health care clinics in BC and Canada, emphasizing the importance of consent forms, understanding the differences between scope of practice and coverage, and the administrative burdens that come with direct billing. She highlights the legal and financial responsibilities of clinic owners, the necessity of being aware of audit terms from insurers, and encourages engagement from the community regarding their experiences and opinions on direct billing.
Chapters:
00:00 Understanding Direct Billing: A Personal Perspective
00:57 (1.) Scope of Practice vs. Scope of Coverage - What is the Difference?
07:41 (2.) Understanding Who is Responsible Financially and Legally in an Insurance Audit
08:25 (3.) Do You Have Consent Documented for Direct Billing?
18:56 (4.) Do you Have Administrative Capacity for Direct Billing?
23:25 (5.) Are you Familiar with Audit Terms for Insurers?
28:27 Balancing Risks and Benefits of Direct Billing
Keywords:
direct billing, consent forms, scope of practice, insurance audits, clinic management, administrative burden, patient communication, healthcare compliance, financial responsibility, insurance coverage, bc physiotherapy, clinic owner, bc physio, PABC, business of physiotherapy, physical therapy, business of physical therapy
Please welcome Neil Nijjar of District Physio!
Neil is a wealth of leadership knowledge and strong advocate for the profession and business of physiotherapy. This episode is an incredible source of education and a deep dive into what strong leadership and team building looks like and he shares his strong views on what the profession of physio should strive for in the coming years.
Neil's clinic - District Physio: districtphysio.ca
Work with Danielle: danielleboyd.ca
Summary:
In this conversation, Neil Nijjar of District Physio discusses his journey as a physiotherapist, his new clinic opening, and the importance of operational roles and leadership in clinics. He emphasizes the significance of client management, communication, and patient care in building caseloads. The discussion also covers advocacy for the physiotherapy profession, the future of healthcare, and the need for policy changes. Neil shares insights on hiring practices, team dynamics, and the role of physiotherapy in healthcare, concluding with a definition of a healthy business as one that fosters a sense of community.
Takeaways:
Neil Nijjar emphasizes the importance of community within a clinic.
Operational roles in clinics are crucial for effective management.
Building rapport with clients is essential for caseload management.
Physiotherapists should be seen as healthcare leaders.
Advocacy is necessary for the advancement of the physiotherapy profession.
Hiring should focus on personality fit over just skills.
The healthcare system needs to adapt to include physiotherapists in non-traditional roles.
Communication is key in patient care and management.
The profession needs to push for better compensation and policy changes.
A healthy business fosters a sense of community among staff and clients.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
02:53 Building Community in Physiotherapy
05:01 Neil's Background and New Clinic Opening
11:00 Operational Insights in Clinic Management
13:53 Understanding Client KPIs and Business Decisions
20:00 Case Management Skills for Success
23:42 Setting Clear Expectations for Patient Care
25:50 Navigating Financial Conversations with Patients
27:36 The Evolving Patient Experience
29:33 The Importance of Soft Skills in Healthcare
31:52 Building Trust and Patient Relationships
33:32 Customizing KPIs for Clinicians
36:53 Hiring for Culture and Fit
39:56 The Role of Leadership in Mentorship
51:34 Being Present as a Leader
53:06 Staff Retention and Value in Healthcare
56:02 Advocacy and Professional Involvement
59:52 Challenges in Physiotherapy Compensation
01:05:12 Changing Perceptions of Physiotherapy
01:16:55 The Future of Physiotherapy as Healthcare Leaders
Keywords:
physiotherapy, clinic management, patient care, advocacy, healthcare leadership, community building, caseload management, professional development, hiring practices, healthcare policy
Please welcome, the incredible Brian Woltz to the podcast this week.
Brian's Clinic: Parkway Physiotherapy - https://parkwayphysiotherapy.ca/
Work with Danielle! danielleboyd.ca/contact
Summary:
In this conversation, Brian and Danielle discuss the challenges of balancing personal and work life as entrepreneurs, the launch of a new podcast focused on business and advocacy, and the journey of clinic ownership. They delve into the importance of mentorship and education in building a supportive work culture, the necessity of financial literacy for business success, and the interconnectedness of emotional intelligence and financial outcomes in healthcare. In this conversation, Brian shares insights on the journey of business growth, emphasizing the importance of learning, transparency, and financial literacy in running a successful clinic. He discusses the realities of clinic ownership, the necessity of understanding financial health, and the significance of building a strong organizational structure. Brian also highlights his leadership philosophy, focusing on team growth and the definition of a healthy business, which includes both profitability and employee happiness.
Chapters
00:00 Launching the Podcast: Conversations on Business and Advocacy
04:26 The Journey of a Clinic Owner: From Vision to Reality
09:33 Mentorship and Education: Building a Learning Culture
14:55 Expanding the Clinic: Lessons in Business Management
18:54 The Responsibility of Business Owners
19:39 Understanding Financial Literacy
21:04 The Importance of Profit and Loss Statements
22:43 Patient Care and Financial Success
24:24 Coaching and Team Development
26:32 The Role of Emotional Intelligence
28:52 Learning Resources for Financial Literacy
31:53 Transparency in Business Operations
35:51 Difficult Conversations in Business
41:30 Income Security for Staff
45:51 Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Growth
47:31 Understanding Business Valuation and Owner Revenue
48:47 The Importance of Financial Literacy in Business
53:18 The Role of Accountants and Financial Advisors
57:50 Organizational Structure in a Growing Clinic
01:02:49 Leadership Development and Career Growth Opportunities
01:08:44 Embracing Transparency and Collaborative Learning
01:11:30 Defining a Healthy Business: Profit and Happiness
Keywords
entrepreneurship, business, financial literacy, mentorship, podcast, clinic ownership, emotional intelligence, healthcare, community, advocacy, business growth, financial transparency, clinic ownership, leadership, organizational structure, financial literacy, team happiness, healthcare business, operational efficiency, professional development
What a joy to have Cassie on the pod! She has some incredible insights into the profession in both the UK and Canada and is passionate about expanding the scope of practice and responsibility for physiotherapists in BC.
Cassie's clinic - Agile Integrated Health: https://www.weareagile.ca/
Want to work with Danielle? Reach out at www.danielleboyd.ca
In this conversation, Cassie Adams-Johnson shares her experiences as a physiotherapist in both the UK and Canada, highlighting the differences in education, practice models, and the challenges faced in the Canadian healthcare system. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration among healthcare professionals, the need for expanded scope of practice for physiotherapists, and the role of advocacy in shaping the future of the profession. The discussion also touches on the impact of insurance on physiotherapy practice and the necessity of building a strong community to support these changes.
"We need to change the exam process."
"We need to advocate for our worth."
"We need to be licensing more physios."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:47 Physiotherapy Education and Practice in the UK
05:38 The Collaborative Model of Care
08:37 Challenges in the Canadian Healthcare System
11:57 The Role of Insurance in Physiotherapy
14:34 Returning to Victoria and Opening a Clinic
17:44 Innovative Practices in Physiotherapy
20:47 Advocacy for Expanding Scope of Practice
23:46 Conclusion and Future Directions
35:11 Advocating for Physiotherapy in Healthcare
37:42 Innovative Practices in Physiotherapy
41:18 Building a Stronger Physiotherapy Community
43:33 Education and Training in Physiotherapy
50:41 Critical Thinking in Physiotherapy
01:00:30 Challenges in the Physiotherapy Profession
01:07:46 The Future of Physiotherapy Advocacy
Keywords
physiotherapy, healthcare, UK, Canada, advocacy, insurance, education, community, scope of practice, collaboration
Please welcome Evan Thomas to the pod! Co-owner of Dockside Physio in Victoria BC, Evan brings a wealth of insight and perspective to this episode!
Evan's Clinic Dockside Physiotherapy: https://docksidephysio.com/
Work with Danielle: danielleboyd.ca/contact
In this conversation, Evan Thomas shares his experiences in the healthcare field, particularly focusing on truth and reconciliation efforts with Indigenous populations. He discusses his journey to becoming a physiotherapist, the challenges of clinic ownership, and the impact of COVID-19 on his practice, including the shift to telehealth. The conversation also delves into the current hiring landscape for physiotherapists and the importance of building a supportive clinic culture. In this conversation, Evan Thomas and Danielle Boyd discuss various aspects of running a physiotherapy clinic, including employee compensation models, the challenges of hiring and retaining staff, the impact of rising costs, and the importance of creating a positive workplace culture. They also touch on the significance of becoming a certified green business and the need for ongoing professional development within the physiotherapy community. The discussion highlights the evolving scope of physiotherapy practice and the necessity of educating the public about the value of physiotherapy services.
Chapters
00:00 Exploring Truth and Reconciliation in Healthcare
09:21 Evan's Journey to Becoming a Physiotherapist
18:19 Building a Successful Clinic Amidst Challenges
23:10 Adapting to COVID-19: Innovations in Telehealth
25:38 Navigating Telehealth Transition
30:17 The Financial Impact of COVID-19
35:24 Balancing Family and Business
41:20 Challenges in Hiring Physiotherapists
48:15 Navigating Employee Compensation Models
51:09 Understanding Contractor vs Employee Dynamics
54:17 Challenges in Hiring and Retaining Physiotherapists
58:18 The Impact of Licensing on Clinic Operations
01:01:12 Becoming a Certified Green Business
01:09:13 Involvement in the Ortho Division and Advanced Practice
01:10:18 Navigating Professional Involvement
01:14:26 Revitalizing Manual Therapy Perspectives
01:18:49 Challenges in Continuing Education
01:20:02 Advanced Practice Physiotherapy Conversations
01:23:37 Public Perception and Access to Physiotherapy
01:30:11 Defining a Healthy Business in Physiotherapy
Keywords
truth and reconciliation, healthcare, Indigenous relations, physiotherapy, clinic ownership, telehealth, COVID-19, hiring challenges, DEI, cultural sensitivity, physiotherapy, employee compensation, clinic operations, hiring challenges, green business, professional development, advanced practice, business culture
In this conversation, Danielle Boyd and Lauren Sutherland discuss Lauren's journey into physiotherapy, the evolution of her business, Core Connection, and the unique challenges and benefits of mobile physiotherapy practice. They explore the importance of client-centered care, the dynamics of remote work, and the financial challenges faced by physiotherapy professionals. Lauren shares her leadership philosophy, the significance of community support through her nonprofit initiatives, and her optimism for the future of the profession.
Lauren's Clinic Core Connection: https://coreconnectionphysio.com/
Work with Danielle: danielleboyd.ca/contact
00:00 Lauren's Journey to Becoming a Physio
01:23 Transitioning to Mobile Physiotherapy
04:05 Building Core Connection: The Business Model
07:10 Navigating Remote Work and Team Dynamics
10:10 The Logistics of Mobile Physiotherapy
13:21 Sustainability and Work-Life Balance in Practice
16:19 Compensation Models and Business Growth
19:25 Transparency and Collaborative Leadership
25:28 Leadership Philosophy and Challenges
28:33 Measuring Business Health and Success
32:12 Client-Centered Care and Feedback Mechanisms
35:59 Challenges in the Allied Health Profession
40:17 Innovative Solutions for Affordability
48:48 Community Initiatives and Nonprofit Work
53:57 Defining a Healthy Business
56:57 Optimism for the Future of the Profession
Keywords
physiotherapy, mobile practice, business growth, leadership, client care, nonprofit, pelvic health, team dynamics, healthcare challenges, community support
Please welcome Alexi Bergeron to the show - Alexi is driven, well spoken and takes no BS. This episode is juicy and reveals a LOT of valuable takeaways.
Links:
Capitol Physio: https://www.capitolphysio.com/
Work with Danielle: danielleboyd.ca/contact
Summary:
In this conversation, Danielle Boyd and Alexi Bergeron discuss the challenges of balancing parenthood with business ownership, the importance of advocacy in the physiotherapy profession, and the implications of new healthcare regulations. They delve into the complexities of working with ICBC, the evolution of physiotherapy fees, and the need for reform in physiotherapy education and licensing exams. Alexi shares his personal experiences, including navigating open heart surgery during his studies, and emphasizes the importance of compassion and support in healthcare education.
Sound bites:
"Advocacy work is crucial for the physiotherapy profession."
"Physiotherapy fees have not kept pace with advancements."
"The licensing exam process needs reform."
Chapters:
00:00 Balancing Parenthood and Business Ownership
02:33 Advocacy in Healthcare: Insights from the Ministry
05:40 Navigating ICBC: Challenges and Opportunities
11:40 The Evolving Landscape of Physiotherapy Fees
17:41 Personal Journey: From Business to Physiotherapy
31:33 Navigating the Interview Process
32:10 Expectations vs. Reality in Physio School
34:03 The Culture of Physiotherapy Education
36:50 Personal Challenges During Physio School
39:24 The Impact of COVID-19 on Education
41:46 Compassion in Healthcare Education
46:01 Advocating for Change in Physiotherapy
47:41 The Licensing Exam Experience
54:12 Reevaluating Physiotherapy Education Standards
58:53 Expanding the Scope of Physiotherapy Practice
Keywords:
physiotherapy, healthcare advocacy, ICBC, insurance, physiotherapy fees, physiotherapy education, licensing exam, open heart surgery, scope of practice, parenthood and business
Meet Andrea Mendoza!
Andrea owns The ScoliClinic in Vancouver, BC and has a strong knowledge set where it comes to running a clinical business. I am thrilled to welcome Andrea as a regular guest on The Health of Business.
Links:
- Andrea Mendoza LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreamendoza21/
- The ScoliClinic: https://scoliclinic.ca/team-member/andrea-mendoza/
- Danielle Boyd: danielleboyd.ca
Summary:
In this conversation, Danielle and Andrea explore the journey of building a successful physiotherapy clinic, focusing on the treatment of scoliosis. They discuss the transition from clinician to CEO, the importance of understanding the seven systems of a clinic, and the significance of operational efficiency, leadership, financial health, compliance, marketing, and professional advocacy. The dialogue emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and adaptation in the healthcare business landscape.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:07 The Evolution of a Scoliosis Clinic
06:17 Transitioning from Clinician to CEO
09:26 Defining a Healthy Clinical Business
11:43 The Nervous System of Clinical Services
13:10 Operational Systems and Workflows - The MSK of a business
33:36 The Privilege and Responsibility of Business Ownership
34:42 Leadership and Culture: The Endocrine System of Business
40:18 Signs of a Struggling Culture
42:58 Financial Health: The Cardiovascular System of Business
47:52 Compliance and Risk Management: The Immune System
56:29 Marketing and Branding: The Integumentary System
01:02:16 Professional Advocacy: The Respiratory System
01:12:28 Looking towards the future of healthcare business.
Keywords; physiotherapy, scoliosis, clinic management, healthcare business, operational systems, leadership, marketing, compliance, financial health, professional advocacy, clinic ownership
Welcome to the launch of The Health of Business Podcast!
We are diving head first with some of my big lessons in this episode - let's jump in!
Visit: danielleboyd.ca to work with me
Summary:
In this inaugural episode of The Health of Business podcast, Danielle Boyd shares her journey as a physiotherapist and business owner, detailing the challenges and triumphs she faced while building a unique healthcare model. She discusses the impact of insurance scope of coverage changes on her business, the emotional toll of as a result, losing a thriving practice and her subsequent pivot towards advocacy and consulting for fellow clinic owners. Danielle emphasizes the importance of community support and the need for better resources in the physiotherapy field, while introducing her framework of the seven systems of a healthy clinic that will guide future episodes.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to The Health of Business Podcast
02:45 The Journey of a Physiotherapist
06:02 Challenges Faced in the Business Model
10:07 Navigating Loss and Grief in Business
14:00 Finding New Directions and Opportunities
18:25 Advocacy and Support for Clinic Owners
22:03 The Seven Systems of a Healthy Clinic
26:26 Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations
Keywords:
physiotherapy, business model, clinic management, healthcare, insurance compliance, professional advocacy, business growth, mental health, community support, podcast
Welcome to The Health of Business with Danielle Boyd...
The Health of Business is the podcast for clinic owners, operations managers, and solo practitioners navigating the complex world of private healthcare in BC and beyond. Hosted by physiotherapist, consultant, and clinic owner Danielle Boyd, this show dives deep into what it really takes to build and sustain a healthcare clinic that works—for patients, your team, and yourself.
This isn’t about chasing followers or flashy growth hacks. It’s about the real conversations—on burnout, cashflow, compliance, and culture—that determine whether your clinic thrives or barely survives. Danielle breaks the business down into seven core systems and explores how each one affects the health of your clinic, just like systems in the human body.
Expect honest stories, smart interviews, and actionable tools you can actually use.
Subscribe now and get ready to rethink the way you run your clinic.