Episode 31: Practice Acquisition Vs. Start-Up Episode 9 with Dr. George Kreisheh

Dr. George Kreisheh shares his compelling journey from graduating dental school to opening a startup practice just one year later—followed by navigating COVID-19 within his first year of ownership. He explains why early acquisition opportunities felt overpriced, how he leveraged lender relationships, and why having a dual-income household allowed him to pursue startup ownership with confidence. Dr. Kreisheh also discusses the challenges of inexperience, the realities of learning the business side as you go, and how the pandemic unexpectedly accelerated his practice growth.

This episode offers a transparent look at taking risks early, evaluating acquisition opportunities, and building resilience as a new practice owner.

Topics include:

● Evaluating outdated or overpriced acquisition opportunities

● Transitioning from associate to owner after just one year

● Leveraging lender relationships and realtor referrals in the startup process

● How COVID-19 impacted new practices and patient flow

● Using low overhead and rent abatement to survive early challenges

● Building confidence and clinical boundaries (what to treat vs. refer out)

● Why some dentists thrive by “jumping in” and learning ownership on the job