Dentist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Shared Practices Group, Dr. Alex Sharp joins Dr. Michael Jerkins to share how his unconventional career path—from high-volume associate to multi-practice owner and CEO—shaped his philosophy on patient care, business, and leadership.

He opens up about the lessons learned early in his career, the pivotal moment that pushed him toward practice ownership in Arkansas, and how those experiences inspired him to co-found Shared Practices Group, an organization focused on delivering full-arch implant care and achieving independence from insurance-driven dentistry.

Dr. Sharp reflects on the realities of running a practice through the COVID-19 pandemic, why differentiation is essential for any insurance-free model, and the balancing act between efficiency, accessibility, and patient advocacy. The conversation also explores how AI and automation are reshaping the field from radiograph analysis to scheduling and why maintaining a personal touch will always be essential in patient care.

What does it take to create a thriving, values-driven practice in an industry dominated by insurance and rising costs? And how can new dentists navigate student debt, business ownership, and a rapidly evolving technological landscape without losing sight of their “why”?

Dr. Sharp offers candid insights into the state of dental education, the future of dental specialties, and why adaptability and a healthy dose of skepticism toward “expert” advice might be the most valuable skills a dentist can have today.

Pediatric nephrologist, educator, and “Sheriff of Sodium” Dr. Bryan Carmody joins Dr. Ned Palmer for a candid deep dive into the world of medical education and residency selection. Known for his sharp analysis and willingness to challenge convention, Dr. Carmody offers a four-star review of the medical education system, praising the outcomes, but questioning the inefficiencies baked into the process.

Together, they explore the ripple effects of the USMLE Step 1 exam’s move to pass/fail, the evolving competitiveness of specialties like anesthesiology and pediatrics, and how international medical graduates fit into the shifting landscape. Dr. Carmody also weighs in on the growing presence of AI in residency applications.

As the conversation turns toward the future, Dr. Carmody highlights the urgent need to align medical education with real-world competencies and the expectations of residency programs. How can medical education evolve to meet the needs of both students and patients? And what happens when AI, equity, and efficiency collide in the residency match? This episode unpacks the complexities shaping the next generation of physicians.

Dr. Michael Jerkins and Dr. Ned Palmer tackle the pressing issues facing today’s physicians. From high turnover rates and burnout to the appeal of direct primary care models, they explore how doctors can regain autonomy, protect their well-being, and find balance in an increasingly complex and demanding healthcare landscape. They discuss the realities of hospital medicine, the pressures of episodic care, and the systemic factors driving many physicians to rethink their career paths.

What drives physicians to leave hospital medicine, and how can the next generation avoid the pitfalls of burnout? How can doctors navigate the nuances of job contracts and employment agreements while protecting their time and financial interests? And what lessons can be drawn from the evolving COVID-19 treatment pathways that highlight the need for flexibility and innovation in practice? Dr. Jerkins and Dr. Palmer break down these challenges with candid insights, real-world examples, and a mix of humor and practicality, offering actionable advice for physicians at every stage of their career.

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