017 - Picking Payroll: What Smart Practices Are Actually Using Travis, Can I Have This? podcast

26:37

Ever wonder what you should and shouldn’t deduct as a doctor? In this episode, we break down 25 legit tax deductions every 1099 associate and practice owner should be considering, from malpractice insurance to work attire to (potentially) paying your kids. We also walk through 10 deductions that’ll raise IRS eyebrows, or make me break out in a nervous sweat, like gym memberships, solo Starbucks runs, and the ever-debatable massages (Travis is pro, the IRS is... not so much).Listen in for: The right way to deduct vehicles, phones, and CE trips What not to write off (sorry, gym rats) The surprising deduction I wish was real This episode is your go-to checklist for navigating write-offs like a pro, without getting burned in an audit. Questions or feedback? Email travis@goaluru.com CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION Comment in Spotify ACCESS THE WORKSHEET TO CALCULATE YOUR INCOME https://uluruadvisors.com/resources/ LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
018 - Audits, S-Corps, and Shenanigans: What Can You Actually Get Away With? 22:12

25 days ago22:12

22:12

You’ve probably heard someone say, “Just become an S-Corp, the IRS doesn’t audit those.” Today, we dig into whether that’s actually true (spoiler: mostly, yes), and what that means for your tax strategy. Travis walks through real IRS data showing S-Corps are audited way less than sole proprietors, like 1 in 12,000 vs. 1 in 5,000 or fewer. But fewer audits ≠ free rein to deduct your Tesla or dog as “stress relief assets.” We unpack: Why S-Corps fly under the IRS radar What the IRS considers legal vs. illegal (hint: tax avoidance = good, tax evasion = orange jumpsuit) Whether having sloppy receipts is criminal (nope, but risky) Form 8275: the IRS-sanctioned way to take a bold but honest tax position Plus, Travis shares 5 key questions to ask before writing something off — including whether you’d feel good explaining that expense to an IRS agent with a straight face. Whether you love the gray area or run from it, this one’s for you. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION Comment in Spotify ACCESS THE WORKSHEET TO CALCULATE YOUR INCOME https://uluruadvisors.com/resources/ LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
017 - Picking Payroll: What Smart Practices Are Actually Using 22:47

5 weeks ago22:47

22:47

Payroll might be the most boring yet most important system in your practice—and picking the wrong provider can create a nightmare. In this episode, we share the top payroll software options he recommends for dental practice owners, based on real-world experience and feedback from his accounting community. We'll break down four types of providers: Your accountant’s in-house or partner solution, Small local payroll firms, Large tech-based platforms like Gusto and Rippling, and Full-service PEOs like Justworks. He we dive into key considerations like 401(k) integration, HR overlap, automation, and customer support. No system is perfect—but the right one will save you time, headaches, and maybe even lawsuits. If you're choosing your first payroll provider—or thinking about switching—this episode is for you. Think I missed a payroll provider you want to hear more about, email me at info@gouluru.com CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION Leave a comment in Spotify Youtube: https://youtu.be/xH_GCu1amCI ACCESS THE WORKSHEET TO CALCULATE YOUR INCOME https://uluruadvisors.com/resources/ LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
016 - What the One Big Beautiful Bill Could Mean for Doctors 20:11

6 weeks ago20:11

20:11

We’re talking tax law today, friends. Which means we’ve officially hit rock bottom… or found our calling. One of the two. At the end of May 2025, the House passed what they lovingly call the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” (Yes, that’s the real name.) It’s not law yet — the Senate still has to weigh in — but this bill gives us a peek at what Congress is cooking up. And for doctors? There’s a lot to digest. In this episode, we break down the good, the bad, and the hairy parts of the bill — especially what could matter for dentists, physicians, and anyone living that W-2 or S-Corp life. The “Good” Stuff: QBI goes from 20% to 23% — and gets made permanent Lower tax brackets & higher standard deductions Bonus depreciation returns to 100% AMT threshold raised (bye-bye, surcharge surprise) The “Bad” News: SALT deduction still capped and kind of meh if you’re over $400k Mortgage interest deduction stays limited to $750k Itemized deductions for W-2 expenses? Still gone. The “Hairy” Details: Pass-through entity tax workaround (PTET) almost got the axe — and could still be on the chopping block A casual $4 trillion bump to the national deficit What might change when the Senate gets involved Got questions or fired-up feedback? Email me at info@gouluru. I’d love to hear what you're seeing and thinking. When the Senate finishes its homework, we’ll be back with another update. Until then, don’t forget: boring bills can save you big money. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION Leave a comment in Spotify Youtube: https://youtu.be/NEHO3nnm-AY LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
015 - The Dentist’s Legal Survival Guide (Straight from CDA) 18:53

7 weeks ago18:53

18:53

Recorded live at the California Dental Association (CDA) meeting, this week on Travis, Can I Have This? I sit down with the legendary dental attorney Ali Oromchian—a name well-known in the dental world (his wife is a pediatric dentist too). With over two decades of experience representing healthcare professionals, Ali shares the five most important legal and business moves every dentist should be thinking about. Ali is the founder of Dental & Medical Counsel PC and the brains behind HR for Health, a company born from witnessing how many dentists get tripped up by HR compliance. He’s advised thousands of dentists on everything from starting their practice to protecting their legacy—and in this episode, he distills it all into five critical tips: Mastering HR compliance Working toward financial independence Owning your own practice Protecting your brand with trademarks Securing your future with estate planning Whether you're just starting out or decades into practice, Ali's insights are gold. Tune in and take notes—legal peace of mind starts here. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION YouTube: https://youtu.be/yhqisIdTiZ0 LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
014 - W-2 vs 1099: 8 Things You Must Know Before You Choose 25:29

10 weeks ago25:29

25:29

Access the free W2 v 1099 resource here https://uluruadvisors.com/resources/ Trying to choose between two associate job offers—one W-2, one 1099? Before you chase the higher rate, let’s talk about what actually matters: your after-tax income. In this episode of Travis, Can I Have This? , we will break down the eight critical factors every doctor should consider when comparing W-2 and 1099 compensation. From total income and deductible expenses to benefits access, business setup headaches, risk tolerance, and even your long-term goals—this is a deep dive into how each structure impacts your real take-home pay. You'll also learn why being asked to form an LLC might be a red flag, and what to watch out for in state laws. We will give you access to our free compensation comparison spreadsheet to plug in your own numbers. Don't go in blind. Listen, learn, and walk into your next job offer with clarity and confidence. LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa Drop any questions in the YouTube comments YouTube: https://youtu.be/R7WhDJ0lOlg LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
013 - The Dental-Practice-Tax Nobody Tells You About 19:14

11 weeks ago19:14

19:14

Welcome back to another episode of "Travis, Can I Have This?" Today we're uncovering the number-one hidden tax most dental practice owners don't even know exists—until it hits their desk with a hefty bill. Imagine opening an unexpected invoice for thousands of dollars. It’s not fraud or a scam—it's your state's Business Personal Property Tax, also known by other confusing names like unsecured property tax or tangible personal property tax. This tax covers virtually everything inside your dental practice: your chairs, cabinets, equipment, and even your waiting room décor. In this episode we will help you: Know this tax exists Help you know what to expect How to minimize this tax as much as possible Stay ahead of surprises—know your tax, minimize your bill, and run your practice smoothly. Thanks for tuning in! Check out a free download where we break down this tax, by state here: https://uluruadvisors.com/resources/ LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION YouTube: https://youtu.be/bf1S-NtJEPg LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
012 - Can Your Practice Afford More Debt? A Guide to Smart Borrowing 25:12

11 weeks ago25:12

25:12

In this episode of Travis, Can I Have This? , we will tackle a common question for practice owners: “Can I afford to take on more debt?” You’ve got big dreams, fancy lasers, and that cone beam is whispering your name from across the showroom floor. But before you sign on the dotted line, let’s talk about debt . Not the scary kind—but the kind that sneaks up on your cash flow and makes you wonder where your money’s going. In this episode, we’re digging into one of the biggest money questions dental practice owners face: How much debt is too much? We break it down into two easy-to-understand numbers: Debt-to-Income Ratio (aka, how much of your monthly cash would go in your pocket if you didn’t have those loan payments) Debt-to-Revenue Ratio (aka, is your practice a money machine or a leveraged-to-the-eyeballs fixer-upper?) Plus: real-world examples, danger zones, and what happens when a cone beam becomes a financial anchor. Debt isn’t the villain here. But it does need a leash. If you’ve been eyeing new equipment or thinking about financing something big, this episode is your gut check. Let’s make sure your next move is a smart one. Link to article with chart of metrics https://uluruadvisors.com/how-much-debt-should-you-have-in-your-dental-practice/ CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION YouTube: https://youtu.be/vxg_oxWecpE LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
011 - Six Reasons You Owe Six Figures in Taxes (And How to Avoid It) 17:38

15 weeks ago17:38

17:38

Tax season is here, and for some dentists, that means one nasty surprise: a six-figure tax bill. Yikes. In this episode of Travis, Can I Have This? , we’re breaking down why this happens and, more importantly, how to avoid it next time. From a lack of tax planning to misunderstanding net income vs. distributions, Travis covers the top six reasons dentists end up owing big. Spoiler alert: Wishing the tax code didn’t exist doesn’t make it go away. But good news – with some proactive planning and better accounting habits, you can sidestep that panic-inducing payment notice. You’ll learn: Why tax projections aren’t optional (seriously, get one). How depreciation can play tricks on your taxes. The dangers of celebrating a revenue jump without considering the tax hit. If you’ve ever found yourself screaming at your tax bill in disbelief, this episode is for you. Tune in and make sure you’re never blindsided again. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: https://youtu.be/uGqINalXHto LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
010 - Five Years Later: COVID’s Lockdowns, Loans, and Lessons 20:25

16 weeks ago20:25

20:25

In this episode, I’m reflecting on a major milestone: five years since COVID-19 upended our lives, especially in dentistry. While it might feel like too soon to talk about, I can’t shake the memories of those chaotic first months. So today, I’m sharing five real stories from the early days of COVID—from a client who saw it coming to a new practice owner who had the worst timing ever. We’ll also dive into what we learned about banking relationships, tax credits, and financial behavior. What You’ll Learn: How unpredictable the world can be—and why preparation beats prediction. The importance of banking relationships (looking at you, Wells Fargo). How the Employee Retention Credit (ERC) turned into the Wild West of accounting. Why “free money” didn’t change bad spending habits. Got a COVID story? Drop it in the YouTube comments—I’d love to hear it. Thanks for tuning in! CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION YouTube: https://youtu.be/kTROSmSDj3Y LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
009 - April 15 is Coming! What You Can STILL Do to Lower Last Year’s Taxes 26:00

17 weeks ago26:00

26:00

It’s that time of year—dentists everywhere are opening their tax returns and saying, “Wait… I owe HOW much?!” If you’re in tax shock, don’t panic just yet. While planning ahead is ideal, there are still seven strategies you can use before April 15th (or even later if you file an extension) to reduce your tax bill for last year. In this episode, we cover: ✅ Maxing out your HSA – If you have an eligible plan, you can still contribute and lower your taxable income. ✅ Funding your IRA – Traditional, Roth, or backdoor Roth? We break down the options. ✅ Maximizing your 401(k) profit sharing – Should you go with the minimum or max? ✅ Considering a SEP IRA or Defined Benefit Plan – Huge tax savings for high earners. ✅ Taking the Home Office Deduction – A must-know for sole proprietors. ✅ Optimizing Depreciation – Bonus depreciation vs. Section 179 Don’t let tax season catch you off guard—listen now and learn what you can still do to save money! CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: https://youtu.be/wM8SbJ4j9DU LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
008 - Cash Reserves 101: How Much Your Practice Actually Needs 26:05

18 weeks ago26:05

26:05

Cash is king—so how much of it should you keep in your practice? In this episode, we break down how to determine the right cash reserve for your dental business. Whether you're running on empty or sitting on too much, we’ll help you find your ideal cash number so you can avoid financial stress and put your money to better use. What You’ll Learn: 💰 Why practice owners rely on their bank balance to make financial decisions 📊 The two-month rule for determining your cash reserve ⚖️ How to calculate the minimum and maximum cash you should keep 🧠 The psychological side of money and why it’s more than just numbers 🏦 A high-yield savings account that could earn you $3,000–$7,000 this year Resources & Mentions: 📖 The Psychology of Money – Morgan Housel 🏦 Flourish Cash (not sponsored, just a great tool! DM me if you need an invite) Join the Conversation! Share your cash strategies in the YouTube comments or reach out if you need help finding your number. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION: https://youtu.be/gGvYmnY-ysY LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
007 - The Best Credit Cards for Dentists: Maximize Rewards and Maximize Control 25:12

19 weeks ago25:12

25:12

We love spending money on our credit cards, right?! In this episode, we’re diving deep into how dentists can maximize credit card rewards and whether traditional credit cards or newer spend-control cards (like Ramp, Divvy, and Brex) are the better fit for your practice. We’ll cover: 💳 Traditional vs. Spend-Control Credit Cards – Which one fits your dental practice? 💰 Cash Back or Points? – Is guilt-free travel worth the complexity? ⚠️ Why Financing on a Credit Card is a Slippery Slope (Hint: Dave Ramsey would not approve.) 📊 How the Right Card Can Save You Thousands – A real-life example of how a simple limit on a Divvy card helped avoid unnecessary spending. If you want better rewards, more control, and fewer financial headaches, this episode is for you! Plus, drop by our YouTube channel to share your credit card experiences. Let’s milk this rewards train together! LINK TO COLIN STROUD linkedin.com/in/gosomewhere gosomewhere.world/ CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION https://youtu.be/WAkLdJogoSE LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
006 - 13 Things Every Dentist Should Know About Merchant Fees 24:00

20 weeks ago24:00

24:00

Merchant fees can quietly eat away at your bottom line—but how much do you really know about what you're paying and why? In this episode, we're diving deep into merchant processing fees so you can take control and stop wasting money on unnecessary costs. Here’s what we’re covering: The two philosophies of merchant processing: convenience vs. cost Interchange-plus, tiered, and flat-rate pricing —which one actually saves you money? The hidden fees that show up on your statements (and how to avoid them) Why insurance companies love sending virtual credit cards (hint: it’s not for your benefit) The one quick calculation that will tell you if you’re overpaying (if you're paying over 3% , you need to listen!) How merchant processors slowly raise your rates over time—without you even noticing If you haven’t looked at your credit card processing fees in years, there’s a good chance you’re overpaying. This episode is your insider’s guide to understanding merchant fees, spotting red flags, and making sure you're getting the best deal possible. Let’s break it all down! CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFjCsMrCXf8 LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

1
005 - Travis, Can I…Renovate My Dental Practice? 20:44

21 weeks ago20:44

20:44

In this episode of Travis, Can I Have This? , we explore whether renovating your dental practice is the right move. If you’re tired of outdated decor or believe a renovation will bring in more patients, this episode is for you. Travis breaks down key financial considerations before committing to a remodel. Key Takeaways: Know Your Why: Are you renovating for aesthetics or functionality? Patient perception may not change as much as you think. Financial Impact: Unless adding operatories, a renovation won't bring an immediate ROI. Debt from renovations will reduce your take-home pay. Two Approaches: A gradual approach allows for small, cash-paid upgrades, while a big bang approach requires financing but delivers a full transformation. Debt-to-Income Ratio Matters: Keep debt below 80% of revenue and ensure strong cash flow before committing. Best Use of Funds: Prioritize revenue growth over aesthetics to strengthen long-term financial health. Renovations can be beneficial but should be strategically timed to avoid financial strain. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPRYzJelNr4 LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

Travis, Can I Have This?

1
004 - 1099s Demystified: What Every Dental Practice Owner Needs to Know 28:16

23 weeks ago28:16

28:16

It’s January, which means it’s officially… 1099 season! This is the time of year when dental practices both give and receive a lot of 1099s. But here’s the big question: do you really understand what’s happening behind the scenes? Even if you have an accountant handling the nuts and bolts, a lot of this information still flows through your hands as the business owner. And if you don’t fully understand it, you could end up making a bad judgment call—or just feeling that uncomfortable uncertainty about what’s going on in your business. In this episode, we’re covering: What 1099s are and why they matter for your dental practice Common pitfalls to avoid during 1099 season How to lift the “cloud of uncertainty” and feel confident in your role as a business owner If you’re not 100% sure how 1099s work, this episode is your crash course in Business 101. Let’s clear up any confusion, so you can head into the year feeling lighter, clearer, and more in control. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kvrG3W338UA&t=17s LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

Travis, Can I Have This?

1
003 - Set Your Dental Practice Up for Financial Success in 2025 26:20

23 weeks ago26:20

26:20

What financial goals do you have for your dental practice this year? If your answer is “none” or “I’m not sure,” you’re not alone. Most dental practice owners don’t set formal projections or budgets for their business—but why not? Here’s the thing: any successful business with a legit finance team sets goals, monitors them, and ensures they’re reaching their full potential. There’s no reason you can’t do the same. Whether your goal is to make more money, free up more time, or both, the first step is mapping it all out financially. In this episode, we’re diving into: Why every dental practice should have financial projections and goals How to map out your financial year step by step A simple worksheet to help you set and track your own goals If you’re ready to stop leaving your practice’s financial future to chance, this episode will give you the tools and mindset to set meaningful goals and work toward achieving them. Let’s make this the year you maximize your practice’s potential! CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FamZYl05Xfk&t=54s LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

Travis, Can I Have This?

1
002 - What Trump’s Tax Changes Could Mean for Your Dental Practice 16:22

23 weeks ago16:22

16:22

Politics and taxes—everyone’s two favorite topics, right? Okay, maybe not. Even as a tax accountant, I’ll admit these subjects can be a little painful. But with President Trump officially back in the Oval Office, we can’t ignore the tax changes that could be coming your way—especially when taxes are your single largest expense as a dentist. In this episode, we’re diving into: The bold promises Trump has made about tax reform What changes to expect with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) back in the spotlight How these potential changes could impact your dental practice The reality of what it takes to get a tax bill passed We’ll also take a look back at what happened the last time Trump faced a similar situation and break down how it might play out this time. Whether you’re optimistic, skeptical, or just curious about what’s next, this episode will help you prepare for what’s ahead in the tax world. CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hONgoK3BPRc&t=75s LET’S CONNECT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisslade.cpa/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@travis.slade.cpa…

Travis, Can I Have This?

1
001 - How Much Money Do You Make? 29:20

23 weeks ago29:20