Ep 12: From Cash Flow to Leadership: The Stages of Growing an Allied Health Business
Release Date: 09/27/2025
Ep 14: The lessons you only learn by building an allied health business
The Business of Allied Health
In this episode, Michael Dermansky is interviewed by Michelle Rosenberg from Back 2 Back Studios, as he shares his journey as a physiotherapist and business owner, reflecting on the realities of building and growing a clinic over time. They explore the early stages of the business, the challenges that came with unexpected setbacks, and how navigating difficult decisions helped shape the direction and resilience of MD Health. Michael also discusses how his leadership style has evolved as the business grew, from being a hands-on technical expert, to mentoring staff, and now focusing on the areas...
info_outline
Ep 13: From 9–5 to Flexible Work: How Jobs Are Changing for Modern Families
The Business of Allied Health
In this episode, Michael Dermansky is joined by Chris Antartis to explore the rapidly changing landscape of workplace flexibility, and why it matters now more than ever, especially for women who are still the primary caregivers in most Australian families. Chris discusses how the traditional nine-to-five structure is becoming increasingly outdated, and why more employees are prioritising flexibility that accommodates real life: school pick-ups, elder care, and the day-to-day responsibilities that come with being a parent or caregiver. They also unpack the impact of COVID-19 on work culture,...
info_outline
Ep 12: From Cash Flow to Leadership: The Stages of Growing an Allied Health Business
The Business of Allied Health
In this episode, Michael Dermansky is joined by Roger Fredrick to unpack the key stages of growing an allied health business, from managing cash flow to developing leadership. Roger shares why the first priority for new business owners is understanding cash flow, planning ahead for big financial events like PAYG, super, and GST, and keeping aside working capital to handle ups and downs. They then dive into the importance of marketing and lead generation, skills that many practitioners underestimate when transitioning into business ownership. Roger explains why learning marketing, or seeking...
info_outline
Ep 11: From Evidence to Action: How Clinics Can Use Research to Improve Outcomes
The Business of Allied Health
In this episode, Michael Dermansky is joined by Josh Blencowe, a clinician–research advocate and allied health professional to discuss how setting up an internal research unit can elevate clinical practice. Josh explains how his passion for knowledge shaped a practical system, not to conduct original trials, but to integrate evidence-based insights into everyday care. The process includes reading research, discussing with teams, creating flowcharts, comparing current practices to evidence, implementing changes, and iterating based on feedback. They explore the benefits: rapid improvements in...
info_outline
Ep 10: Why most allied health businesses fail (and how to avoid it)
The Business of Allied Health
In this episode, Michael Dermansky is joined by Shane Gunaratnam – a seasoned physiotherapist, clinic owner, and business coach – to explore what truly sets successful allied health businesses apart. Shane shares key insights on why financial awareness isn’t optional—it’s essential. From understanding your gross profit margin (and why 50% is the magic number) to managing costs and reading a P&L like a second language, Shane breaks down the financial foundations every clinic owner needs to master. This episode is packed with practical advice on leadership, long-term learning, and...
info_outline
Ep 9: Scared of Starting a Business in Allied Health? Do It Anyway
The Business of Allied Health
Welcome to The Business of Allied Health – where we dive into what it takes to run a successful allied health business in Australia. This week, Michelle Rosenberg joins Michael Dermansky to share her incredible journey from professional dancer to Pilates instructor, physiotherapist, and entrepreneur. She opens up about launching her own studio and creating a unique piece of equipment – the springboard – designed to be more functional and accessible for clients. Michelle discusses the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, from marketing challenges to the emotional reality of building a...
info_outline
Ep 8: Integrating podiatry into a physio practice—what does it take?
The Business of Allied Health
Welcome to The Business of Allied Health – where we dive into what it takes to run a successful allied health business in Australia. This week, Nadeena Thenabadu, a physiotherapist and business owner of Head2Toe Physiotherapy, joins Michael Dermansky to share his journey from clinician to successful clinic owner. He discusses how he integrated podiatry services, tackled recruitment challenges, and built a strong team culture through open communication and leadership. Nadeena also reveals what it takes to expand to new locations, maintain high-quality care, and keep staff motivated. If...
info_outline
The shift from clinical work to successful business owner
The Business of Allied Health
Welcome to The Business of Allied Health – where we dive into what it takes to run a successful allied health business in Australia. In episode 7, host Michael Dermansky interviews Fiona White, a physiotherapist turned successful business owner in the allied health sector. Fiona shares her inspiring journey from her early days as a passionate clinician to leading her own business. She discusses the challenges of transitioning from hands-on clinical work to taking on a leadership role, the importance of empowering teams, and the value of finding one’s passion. Fiona also reflects on the...
info_outline
6 Mastering your niche in allied health business
The Business of Allied Health
Welcome to The Business of Allied Health – where we dive into what it takes to run a successful allied health business in Australia. In episode 6, host Michael Dermansky interviews Darron Goralsky, a physiotherapist who transitioned from general practice to becoming a TMJ and facial pain specialist. Darron shares his journey from his early days studying physiotherapy in South Africa to establishing his own practice in Australia. He discusses the challenges of choosing a niche, the importance of collaborating with dental professionals, and the significant mindset shift required to step back...
info_outline
Building trust and mobility in allied health with Tristan White
The Business of Allied Health
Welcome to The Business of Allied Health – where we dig deep into what's involved in running a successful allied health business in Australia today. In episode 5, host Michael Dermansky interviews Tristan White, founder of The Physio Co. Tristan shares his journey of building a thriving allied health business dedicated to helping older people stay mobile, safe, and happy. He highlights the importance of cultivating strong relationships with both clients and team members, while also delving into the unique challenges of working in the aged care industry. Tristan also emphasises the...
info_outlineIn this episode, Michael Dermansky is joined by Roger Fredrick to unpack the key stages of growing an allied health business, from managing cash flow to developing leadership.
Roger shares why the first priority for new business owners is understanding cash flow, planning ahead for big financial events like PAYG, super, and GST, and keeping aside working capital to handle ups and downs.
They then dive into the importance of marketing and lead generation, skills that many practitioners underestimate when transitioning into business ownership. Roger explains why learning marketing, or seeking expert help, is vital to getting clients through the door.
If you’re an allied health professional wanting to better understand the journey of business growth, and what to focus on at each stage, this episode is for you.
For more expert insights on allied health business and leadership, visit MDhealth.com.au/articles.