Start Your Dental Practice: Recent Episodes

Jonathan VanHorn

In every episode, we aim to demystify the “how to start a dental practice” problem by bringing on world-class influencers and consults to pick their brain about how to get past the barriers involved from no practice, to practice owner, to successful practice.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists,

I hope you're having a great week and continuing to navigate these challenging times.

Today I'm excited to share my conversation with Cory Pinegar, CEO of Callforce, who dives deep into the art of answering the phone and how to develop the right phone system for your practice.

Having talked to many dentists over the years, I know that one of the most difficult things to "get right" is how you handle your phones, especially when you're starting out.

Here's just some of what you'll learn in today's interview with Cory Pinegar:

  • Some of Corey's unbelievable statistics and facts about dental calls.
  • Why systems and structure are so important to optimize your phone process.
  • How to determine the missed opportunities for your practice.
  • The most common times people call and how to ensure you are prepared.
  • Why handling calls are difficult for a new practice and how to know when you should hire extra help.
  • The biggest mistakes most dental practices make when making calls.
  • A simple trick for making calls a priority in your practice

And much more...

View Details

Hey there Ambitious Dentists,

I hope you and your loved ones continue to stay healthy and safe.

I know that for some, the last thing you might want to do is listen to a dental podcast, but if you're looking for a quick break from the chaos of the last few months, I think you'll really enjoy today's episode.

Today I sit down with previous SYDP guest, Jordon Comstock, CEO of BoomCloud, a dental membership plan software that has helped hundreds of dentists successfully implement membership programs in their practice.

We cover some of the latest insights on membership plans as well as some best practices to improve your chances of success.

Here's just some of what you'll learn in today's episode.

  • Why a dental membership plan can help you get through difficult times.
  • What exactly a "membership program" is, and whether it might be right for you.
  • The biggest mistakes with membership plans and how to avoid them.
  • Why membership plans aren't just good for you... but why your patients will love them as well.
  • What Amazon Prime can teach you about running a successful dental practice.
  • How to retain patients that are out of network.

And much more...

Even if you've tried a membership plan in the past with little success, or are considering adding one, I know you'll really enjoy today's episode.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists,

On behalf of the entire Tooth & Coin team, I hope you and your loved ones are doing well in these incredibly difficult times and are staying safe and sound.

While many are struggling around the world, I know it’s an especially challenging time for dentists specifically.

I originally recorded this interview with Dan Delmain a few weeks ago, but given the recent events with the Coronavirus I believe you’ll find today’s interview especially relevant.

While the health of your family and friends obviously comes first, it’s more important than ever to build the right systems to attract more patients for your practice.

Today’s guest Dan Delmain is an industry leading leader in helping small businesses generate patients and increase revenue through strategic online marketing and website design.

We talk about everything from website design, to latest marketing best practices. I’ve personally seen how effective Dan’s methods are with his clients and in our talk he shares some incredibly powerful marketing and business strategies you can apply right away.

Here are just a few things you’ll learn:

  • Why your dental practice website is so important and the most common mistakes dentists make.
  • The most effective type of testimonial to increase trust quickly.
  • Should you make a few minor tweaks to your current site or start from scratch?
  • Why the “band aid” approach to your website almost never works long term.
  • The “Content Management System” Dan recommends for most dentists.
  • One of the easiest ways to take your website from a 7 to a 10.
  • How to use your website to make a genuine connection with your patients.

And much more.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists,

Jonathan here. Apologies for it being so quiet on the podcasting front, as my team and I were heads down rebranding DentistMetrics into what is now Tooth and Coin.

It was a ton of hard work, and I couldn’t be more happy with how things have turned out. Thanks to my amazing team and all the support from the SYDP community.

Today I’m incredibly excited to get back into the swing of things by welcoming back a previous SYDP guest Alex Nottingham CEO and founder of All Star Dental Academy to the show.

A while back he shared a ton of value on episode 93 of SYDP and I wanted to bring him back on to share his latest insights on what’s working in dentistry.

Here are a few things you’ll learn in today’s episode:

  • How Alex helped take his father’s dental practice from the verge of bankruptcy to becoming a thriving practice.
  • The most effective way to increase your case acceptance rate without using hype or pressure.
  • Why you don’t need to work crazy hours to build a successful practice.
  • Some of the biggest myths dentists believe that are holding them back from dental practice growth.
  • How Alex got into dentistry, and the main business lessons he’s learned about the industry.
  • Why having a team first approach can make all the difference in your dental practice success.

And much more.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists,

One of the most common questions I get in talking with dentist practice owners all over the country is how to acquire a dental practice successfully.

As you likely know, there's a massive difference between thinking about acquiring a practice and actually taking action on your plan.

Today I'm incredibly excited to sit down with Paul Sletten founder of the Sletten group. Paul has been in business for over forty years and is, without a doubt, one of the most knowledgeable people I know about how to make a successful transition when acquiring a practice.

In today's episode, he breaks down everything you need to know so that you can acquire a practice successfully.

Here are just a few of things you'll learn... 

  • The biggest mistakes dentists make when acquiring a practice and how to avoid them.
  • How Paul got into the industry and what he's learned since being in business since 1975.
  • Why communicating with your staff is essential when you're thinking of acquiring a practice.
  • When to know if you should acquire a practice.
  • The most important things to keep in mind when you acquire your practice and how to keep original patients.
  • Why culture is so important in being successful in your acquisition.
  • How to know if the practice you're acquiring is a good fit.

And much more.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists,

Happy Friday! I hope you had a great week.

Whether you’re fresh out of dental school or have been running your general dental practice for years, you’ve likely at one time considered adding ortho to your practice.

Is it worth it? How do you even go about getting started?

Maybe you’re an orthodontist now, who is looking to get more out of your offering.

Today I’m incredibly excited to sit down with today’s guest Dr. Amanda Wilson, founder of Straight Smile Solutions and orthodontist herself.

Straight Smile Solutions is an ortho consulting firm that helps dentists add ortho to their offerings and improve their current ortho processes.

In today’s interview, we talk about the common misconceptions of ortho, when you should consider adding it to your practice, as well as all the latest ortho best practices.

If you’re currently an orthodontist or run a general practice and are considering adding ortho, you don’t want to miss my interview with Dr. Amanda Wilson.

Here are a few things you’ll learn in today’s episode.

  • Dr. Wilson’s inspiring story of how she went from being an orthodontist to running an orthodontist consulting company as well.
  • How to maximize your ortho production and the common mistakes most dentists make with ortho.
  • What Dr. Wilson learned from practicing during the tech boom and bust and how it affected her practice and future career.
  • The most effective way to sell ortho without being too salsey.
  • How adding ortho can dramatically increase your practice’s revenue when done correctly.
  • The 3 limiting beliefs many dentists have about ortho and how to overcome them.

And much more.

View Details

Hey ambitious dentists,

We have a special treat for you today with a guest interview covering a topic I know is on a lot of our SYDP listener's minds.

Saving for your kids higher education.

With college tuition rising with no signs of slowing down, and the US having over a trillion dollars in student loan debt, it can be a challenge knowing not only how much you should invest in the future of your children, but the most effective way to do so according to your situation.

Today I’m excited to sit down with Abby Chao co-founder of CollegeBacker.com a resource and service that helps any parent start investing in a tax-free 529 college saving plans in just minutes.

Even if you’re just out of a school and kids aren’t quite in the picture, it’s never too early to get ahead on planning for the future.

Here are a few things you’ll learn in today’s episode.

  • Why starting a college fund now is so important and the easiest way to do so.
  • The major benefits of a 529 college savings plan.
  • A simple guideline to know how much to save.
  • The future of higher education and what it may mean for your children.
  • The difference between a 529 and a regular savings account.
  • Why donations to a college fund are becoming one of the most popular graduation gifts.

And much more.

The Best Way To Save For Your Kid’s Higher Education As A Dental Practice Owner Quote

"If you don't know what a 529 plan is.. you're not alone. Over 70% of parents have no idea what a 529 plan is." -Abby Chao

About The Guest College Backer

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review on iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Today we have another exciting treat for you, as I sit down with Jeff Gladnick, CEO of GreatDentalWebsites. Jeff was one of the first guests we had on the SYDP podcast when we launched just a few years ago, and I’m excited to have him back on the show to share the latest best practices for your dental website and marketing efforts. Jeff is one of the very first people I really connected with in the dental industry, and he’s genuinely one of the most stand up guys in the dental space. Whether you’re looking to improve your website conversions or want to know how to get a better ROI on your marketing initiatives, you’re going to absolutely love today’s interview. Here are just a few things you’ll learn: * Why good marketing isn’t as easy as just paying someone and hoping for the best. * The importance of local search when growing your dental practice. * Why your website MUST be mobile friendly. * What’s working now in marketing and building dental websites that convert. * Why it’s essential you have your own website, even if you're already on social media. * How to avoid wasting tens of thousands of dollars when rebuilding or creating your dental practice website. * The best way to display social proof on your website and on your social media channels.

And much more. Today’s interview is absolutely jam packed with actionable insights that you can start implementing right away. Click here to listen to my interview with Jeff Gladnick. -Jonathan VanHorn

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists,

When my team and I launched the SYDP podcast over three years ago, we had no idea that we would be able to build such an amazing SYDP community.

Since launch, we’ve had over 100+ guests on the show, each of which shared their unique take on how to build a thriving and profitable dental practice.

Today I’m incredibly excited to share that I recently sat down with our very first SYDP guest Jayme Amos. Jayme is an incredibly successful dental practice consultant and best selling author as well as the founder and CEO of Ideal Practices.

Over the years Jayme has been able to build a massive following in the dental community and for good reason.

In our latest SYDP episode, we sat down to talk about what he’s been working on over the last few years, as well as the unique project he recently launched.

To the best of my knowledge, this is the first project of its kind in the dental community, and he shares more about what it’s about on today’s show.

Here are just a few of the things we cover…

  • What Jayme has learned from producing the dental communities first ever documentary focusing exclusively on startups and growing your dental practice.
  • The current entrepreneurial trends in dentistry, and why they matter to you.
  • How to push through the ups and downs of being a dental practice owner.
  • The pros and cons of starting your own practice versus purchasing one
  • How to balance traditional education and learning by doing as you grow your practice.
  • The hard truth about growing your dental practice and why building a startup is not for everyone.

And much more.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists! Happy Wednesday! I have a special treat for you today. Recently I had the honor of being interviewed by the incredible Dr. Paul Goodman and attorney Rob Montgomery on The Dental Amigos Podcast. It’s always fun being on the other side of the mic for a change, and Dr. Paul and Rob are really great guys doing amazing things in the dental industry. Dr. Paul also runs the incredibly popular Dental Nachos online community and brand which I know many of you are a part of, and Rob is one of the most respected dental attorney's around. They were kind of enough to give me permission to republish the episode here for the SYDP community, and I think you’ll find a ton of actionable insights in our conversation. Here are just a few of the things we cover… * Should you buy a house or a dental practice first? Hint… it depends * My favorite nacho topping…. * Should you lease or purchase your office? * An inside look at what I do at DentistMetrics * Common misconceptions of what a CPA does

And much more.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists! Today I’m incredibly excited to share an interview on a topic that I believe isn’t talked about enough in the dental space. The topic? Financial planning and retirement, specifically for dentists. Now, for those of you who are ready to close out your browser or shut down your podcast app because you’re just getting started as a dentist, it’s never too early to start planning for your financial future and retirement. I know this topic can be incredibly helpful to many of our SYDP listeners which is why I’m thrilled to have Ryan Isaac cofounder of Dentist Advisors as well as the co-host of the Dentist Money Podcast. Today we dive deep into the nitty gritty of financial planning and retirement for dentists. Here are just a few things you’ll learn in today’s episode. * Why financial planning is essential… especially for dentists. * The things you should start doing now to build a secure financial future. * Why it’s never too early to start thinking about your financial plan. * How to make smart financial decisions as a dentist. * The biggest mistakes most dentists make when planning for their financial future.How financial planning is like diet and exercise, and the exact tips and strategies to get yourself on track. * The always changing definition of retirement and a helpful way to set yourself up for success.

And much more.

Even if you’re just getting started with your practice and not even thinking of retirement, I know there’s plenty of key takeaways that can help set you up for a healthy financial future.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists

Do you always feel like you’re playing catchup on learning the latest best practices for running a successful dental practice? Whether it’s taking yet another training, or listening to the top rated dental podcasts, it can often be a challenge to keep up. While putting in the work daily is part of running a thriving practice, knowing the “big wins” for getting the best results can help take your practice to the next level. Which is why I'm very excited to introduce today's guest Dr. Chris Salierno. Dr. Chris is the editor and chief of the Dental Economics and a practicing dentist in New York. He also serves as the editorial director for DE's Principles of Practice Management e-newsletters and lectures internationally on clinical dentistry, practice management, and leadership development. I think you'll find our conversation is jam packed with actionable insight you can apply to grow your practice. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How Dr. Chris balances practicing two to three times a week and being the editor and chief of Dental Economics. * Why dental economics is so important, and how to spot dental practice opportunities.
The importance of patient experience and how to stand out from your competition. * What Dr. Chris has learned from being editor in chief of Dental Economics. * Whether or not you need an MBA to build a successful practice. * Why having a mentor is one of the best investments you can make. * How to build your “business mindset” consistently.

And much more!

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists!

One of the most requested topics I receive from the SYDP community to cover on the podcast is the nitty gritty in and outs of buying a dental practice.

Whether you’re looking to buy your very first practice or eyeing practice #2 or #3, it always seems there’s plenty to improve throughout the process to help ensure you walk away with a great deal.

Today, I’m incredibly excited to have Dr. Paul Goodman, of Dental Nachos fame, on the show.

It turns, Dr. Paul knows a thing or two about buying dental practices.

Currently, a transition specialist and coach, Dr. Paul Goodman, has done it all. A former practicing dentist himself, Dr. Paul has also brokered some dental practice deals and currently helps coach dentists throughout the buying process.

He really brings the value in today's conversation.

If you’re currently looking to purchase a dental practice, or just want to know more about one of the biggest names in the dental industry today, I know you’ll love my interview with Dr. Paul Goodman.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * Here are just a few of the things you’ll learn in today’s episode: * Why having a coach when buying a dental practice can help you accelerate your success. * The full origin story of the highly popular Dental Nachos group and brand. * The biggest challenges dentists face when looking to purchase a practice and how to avoid them. * How dentistry has changed over the last ten years and what that means for practices in 2019 and beyond. * Lessons from Dr. Paul Goodman’s transition from a practicing dentist to coach and dental practice broker. * What Dr. Paul has learned from creating multiple communities for dentists and why relationship building is so important. * How to give feedback that works, both personally and professionally.

And much more!

How To Buy A Dental Practice With Dr. Paul Goodman Quote

“ I would say it’s the most important decision of your life.” - Dr. Paul Goodman

About The Guest Dr. Paul Goodman

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review on iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists! Happy New Year! I hope you a wonderful 2018 and even better 2019! First off, I want to say thank you to all of you who reached out about our latest SYDP podcast episode with Kiera Dent. I always enjoy hearing about the key takeaways our listeners gain from the show. After the minor SYDP hiatus in 2018, it’s great to be back behind the mic and getting to share my conversations with our incredible guests. One of the best parts about running the SYDP podcast is that we’ve been fortunate enough to have some truly high performing dentists and dental practice owners on podcast, and the lessons they share can often help to take your dental practice to the next level. Today I’m excited to share my conversation with Dr. Hunter Smith, a fellow Arkansas native, and former guest on the show. Dr. Hunter is a legend on Dental Town and in other dental circles and has seen some incredible success buying multiple dental practices right out of school. Given we last spoke with him a year or two ago, I invited him back on the show to share what he’s been up to since our last conversation where he shares what he's learned since we last spoke. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * What Dr. Hunter has been up to since we last chatted, hint - it’s a lot. * Why most dentists fail at the art of the followup and how to build the perfect followup system for your dental practice. * What Dr. Hunter has learned from stepping away from the day to day of dentistry and the lessons he’s learned from growing his GPS dental group. * The ins and outs of running a DSO. * What makes an “effective” dentist and how to improve productivity at your own dental practice.

Lessons From Growing Multiple Dental Practices With Dr. Hunter Quote

"There are two kind of easy ways to do it. Increase your availability or two increase your procedure.” - Dr. Hunter Smith

About The Guest GPS Dental

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review on iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Hey Ambitious dentists!

I hope you had a wonderful holiday! Can you believe there's only a week left of 2018?

We have a really great SYDP episode for you today, with our previous star guest Kiera Dent rejoining the show sharing how to optimize your dental practice.

But first, to address the elephant in the room.

You may have noticed it's been relatively quiet on the podcast front this year. I've received dozens of emails asking about the pause of the show, and I couldn't be more grateful for the continued support.

As you know, I always try to tell things how they are (the good and bad) of running a podcast, and the truth is, I felt the quality of our latest episodes didn't bring as much value as I knew they could. Nothing against our amazing guests of course, but I decided to take some time with my team to reflect on how we can continue delivering incredible value to you, our SYDP listeners.

The podcast isn't going away anytime soon, but we have decided to experiment with a quality not quality approach. We'll be sharing a new episode if and only if we know it's an absolutely fantastic use of your time. On occasion, we'll revert to our once a week schedule, but throughout 2019 we might only publish an episode or so a month. Ultimately, I know how valuable your time is and want to ensure every episode is both actionable and insightful first and foremost.

With that said, we have a handful of amazing interviews coming up over the next few weeks that I know you'll love.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * The most common reasons dental practices hit a plateau in growth and how you can overcome them. * The three things that make or break a front office phone call. * Why you should rethink the KPI's, you're focusing on to start the new year.
The latest research on how we communicate both in person and on the phone. * Why having confidence in your patient diagnosis can transform your practice virtually overnight..

And much more.

I really hope you enjoy my latest interview with Kiera Dent. And I’m excited to be sharing more interviews with the SYDP in the New Year!

View Details

When starting your dental practice, the list of things you “need to do” is virtually endless. You need to hire your first employee. You need to setup your website. You need to find the perfect office location.

And in all the chaos of getting things up and running, many dentists neglect one of the most important components of successful dental practice.

Human Resources.

Which is a huge mistake.

While HR can often be complicated and overwhelming, the truth is, not having the right foundation can really come back to cost you and your practice. There are plenty of things you can put off for later, but HR is not one of them.

Today I’m excited to sit down with Chris Lessard of CEDR HR. Chris is a California barred attorney and knows a thing or two about how to handle HR and successfully grow your practice.

Chris and I met at a CE event a few months back and I just knew I had him on the show. His day to day role involves advising dental practices all across the country about their specific HR needs.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How HR” affects virtually every part of your dental practice. * Chris’s definition of HR and why it’s important. * The secret to avoiding costly “HR landmines” that could derail your practice. * Why it’s so hard to remain compliant in today’s fast-paced dentistry world. * Common mistakes new dentists make when making their first hires…

And much more...

If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed with HR, you definitely won’t want to miss today’s episode.

Now here’s my interview with Chris Lessard from CEDR HR. Enjoy the interview!

View Details

Hello ambitious dentists,

Have you ever been to a conference or event and have just one speaker blow you away? Not just because of their knowledge of the subject, but their stage presence as well?

While recently attending a course by my friend Jayme Amos, I had the pleasure of hearing Teresa Duncan take the stage and share everything she knew about dental insurance.

And she was that one “amazing” speaker for me.

As a dental CPA, I’m certainly not an expert when it comes to dental insurance, and I found her speech to be both informative and easy to understand. And I knew I just had to bring her on the show.

It’s definitely an interview you don’t want to miss.

Here are a few things we cover on today’s show.

  • What Tersea learned from being both an office manager and dental assistant.
  • The biggest mistakes most dentists make when it comes to insurance and the steps to avoid them.
  • The bad habits you can’t afford to have your office managers have.
  • How to identify an all-star employee.

And much more.

If you’ve been wanting to figure out the insurance game to start the new year, this interview is for you.

Now here’s my interview with Teresa Duncan.

View Details

Hello, ambitious dentists,

Whether you’re just starting your dental practice career, or have been growing your practice for a while, you probably have experienced the many ups and downs that come with being a practice owner.

And the truth is, it’s not easy.

As we’ve said many times here on SYDP, there are some things dental school just doesn’t teach you… which is why I’m excited to have today’s guest Dr. Shakila Angadi on the show.

Right out of dental school, Dr. Shakila quickly realized that things don’t always go according to plan and today she shares what she has learned.

If you have some spare time while you’re preparing meals or out and about shopping, give the interview a listen.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How to be both “successful” and “happy” while still growing your practice. * The mindset habits most successful dentists have. * How to deal with setbacks and quickly get back on track. * Why investing in your emotional intelligence has such a high ROI.

And much more.

If you’ve recently found yourself frustrated most days when you go into the office, this episode is definitely for you.

View Details

Happy New Years ambitious dentists! I hope you were able to finish 2017 on a strong note, and are ready for a great new year!

To kick off the show in 2018, I’m excited to welcome two-time guest DR. Graham Dersley back on SYDP. He’s seen some incredible success since he was last on the show and continues to build the ever popular Practice on Fire community.

I think you’ll find his approach on how to build a successful dental practice perfect for starting the new year strong.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * Why improving the quality of your patients should be a top focus in 2018. * Dr. Graham’s “ideal patient” and why you should know yours. * How just a slight tweak in your marketing strategy can improve your bottom line. * The secret to leveraging the 80/20 rule successfully in your practice. * Plus much more.

If you’re looking to start the year with a positive mindset and clear goals, you won’t want to miss today’s interview.

View Details

Ambitious dentists,

Hey ambitious dentists, Jonathan VanHorn here, I hope you have some exciting plans lined up for the holidays and get to enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation. I recently had the pleasure of being interviewed by the man, the myth, the legend Dr. Mark Costes himself on the Dentalpreneur Podcast and had a ton of fun.

If you have some spare time while you’re preparing meals or out and about shopping, give the interview a listen.

The episode is reposted with Dr. Costes permission. I hope you enjoy!

I’ve always loved how Dr. Costes is always able to get the best nuggets of wisdom from his guests, and I think our interview turned out pretty great. We cover some of the major implications of the new tax cuts and discuss why they might not be so great for dentists. Worry not, we try and end the interview on a high note!

View Details

Can we get an encore? Today I am very excited to have dental consultant Kiera Dent back on the SYDP podcast for episode 101.

You may remember when we had Kiera on the show for episode 92 where she shared how to choose the right dental consultant for your practice.

And since we last talked a few months ago, it’s safe to say she’s done more than most people do in years.  She’s currently involved in a handful of really cool projects, as well as continuing to run her own business, dental placement pros.

So I asked her to come back on the show and share what’s new in her world, important metrics to track, and how to genuinely inspire your team.

Here are a few things you'll learn! 

  • Now here’s my interview with Kiera Dent. And have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
  • How Kiera is able to do so much professionally, without spreading herself too thin or burning out.
  • The one metric that has the strongest correlation with dental practice success.
  • Why same day treatment is so powerful for patient satisfaction and improving your bottom line.
  • The exact metrics you should have your front desk staff track…
  • And the many lessons Kiera has learned from working in multiple office roles and how it has helped her get where she is today.

Kiera really brings the knowledge to this interview. It’s one you definitely don’t want to miss.

View Details

Ambitious dentists,

Today I am very excited to share with you episode 100 of the Start Your Dental Practice podcast. What an incredible journey it has been.

 When I started the SYDP podcast just a few years ago, I had no idea what to expect, and I couldn’t be more happy with the community we have built.

I’m incredibly grateful for the support of the DentistMetrics team, my friends and family, the amazing guests, and all those who have tuned into SYDP.

I’ve learned a lot over the last few years since launching SYDP, and for episode 100 I wanted to share my 7 biggest takeaways.

Whether you’ve considered launching a podcast yourself, or are just looking to grow your dental practice, I hope these 7 lessons point you in the right direction and help you build the dental practice and business of your dreams.

To celebrate episode 100, I've also put together the 7 Lessons I've Learned from 100+ Hours of Interviewing the World's Best Dental Practice Owners And Consultants Guide. The guide breaks down everything I've learned as well as highlights all past guest episodes for easy consumption. If you're looking to catch up on some missed episodes, you won't want to miss the guide.

View Details

Hello ambitious dentists,

Today I’m very excited to share with you my conversation with Dr. Mike Dolby, founder of Practice in Your Pocket which helps you clearly understand the areas in which your dental practice is underperforming through leveraging technology.

A practicing dentist himself, Dr. Dolby has an incredibly unique take on what it takes to build a successful practice in the year 2017, and he holds nothing back into today’s interview.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * Dr. Mikes tips on how to stand out as a dentist and really WOW your patients. * The most common challenges many dentists face, and Dr. Mike’s tips to avoid them. * A simple trick to making a great first impression… * What virtually all successful dental practices have in common...

And much more.

If you’re looking to build better systems, improve your culture, or become a better leader, you’ll love today’s interview.

Now here’s my conversation with Dr. Dolby.

View Details

Hello ambitious dentists,

Today I have a fantastic interview with Samantha Leonard co-founder of Stream Dental which provides services to help dentists solve the age-old problem of HR.

For most dentists, HR remains an unsolved mystery and if we’re being honest, is very often an afterthought in the endless list of todos throughout your day.

Heck, despite being so important, even simply defining HR can be a struggle for many dentists. But it’s no secret, human resources are important, and how you interact, communicate, and motivate your staff has a huge impact on the success of your practice.

Which is why I’m so excited to have Samantha Leonard on the show. In our conversation, she breaks down why HR is so important and how to start taking it seriously in your practice.

Here are a few things you’ll learn on today’s show...

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How to find your dream team and retain top talent... * Why processes are so important when it comes to HR… and how to implement them the right way * The many misconceptions of “HR” and how Samantha defines human resources... * Mistakes many dental practices make with onboarding new employees that can costs you thousands of dollars...

And much more.

With human resources being such a complex process, I know you’ll get a lot out of today’s conversation.

Now here’s my interview with Samantha Leonard.

View Details

Hello ambitious dentists,

For many dental practice owners, running a practice is often a lifelong dream. Despite the thousands of hours of education and hard work, there’s no better feeling than knowing you help your patients ultimately live a better life.

But as we know, the journey to running a practice is filled with both ups and downs, and you don’t always get to hear about everything that goes into making a dream, reality.

Which is why I’m so excited to share today’s incredibly inspiring interview with Dr. Ashley Joves. After many years of an associateship that left Dr. Ashley wanting more, she recently started her very own practice and has quickly seen some incredible success.

Her story is one of the most inspiring I’ve heard in awhile, and in our interview, she shares openly about the many things she’s learned from running a practice over the last few months.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How a simple social media post went viral and helped her quickly build her brand and create a loyal following. * Why Dr. Ashley gives each patient an office and her tips to creating a trusting office atmosphere. * Dr. Ashley’s approach to doing “dentistry” differently, and how it has helped her stand out. * Why Dr. Ashley recommends all aspiring dentists create a startup business plan. * How Dr. Ashley has managed to grow her practice while still making time for her family.

And much more...

Whether you’re also just starting out on your dental practice journey, or have been around for awhile, I know you’ll find our conversation both incredibly inspiring and informative.

View Details

Hey, ambitious dentists,

I have a really special treat for you today. Today, I’m on the other side of the mic yet again with Dr. Panks Dhingra.

Dr. Dhingra and I recently became friends, when he reached out to learn a little more about the “dental podcasting community.”

And he has recently launched a really cool platform called Podcasts of Dentistry. Basically, it’s like a search engine where you can find all of your favorite podcasts by dental professionals by searching their name on the site.

In addition to being a really great search engine of the best dental podcasts around, Dr. Dhingra has listed the many books and resources your favorite podcasts recommend. I know it’s going to be a great resource now and in the future.

Dr. Dhingra asked to interview me and I happily said yes.

We cover a TON in our conversation, from podcasting to my accounting business, to the state of the dental community. I think you’ll really enjoy this interview posted with his permission.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * + The lessons I’ve learned from producing over 90 episodes for my podcast. + How I became involved in the dental industry as a CPA. + Why podcasting is the best way to improve as a public speaker. + And some of the tools and resources I use for my podcast and business.

And much more...

View Details

[This interview was published with permission from Alan Mead] Interested in attending the voices of the dentistry event? Use vod200 get 200 dollars off of 897 -- the discount goes until October 18th. Hey ambitious dentists,

I recently had a great time being on the other side of the mic with Alan Mead on the Alan Mead Dental Experience podcast. Alan Mead likely doesn't need much of introduction, as he's one of the most respected people in the dental industry and is a cohost of the very popular podcast DentalHacks as well.

As we near over 100 episodes published here on SYDP, it's always fun to be in the hot seat for a chance. Alan and I cover a wide range of topics such as discussed productivity, my life as a "dental accountant" and how both Alan and I are both terrible at coming up with names for businesses. I really enjoyed being on the show, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * + What I've learned from being a dental account, and the biggest problems I see dentists face. + Why I started the Start Your Dental Practice Podcast + The power of the "podcasting community" in the dental space and why it matters + How podcasting has changed my life both personally and professionally + My experience with voices of dentistry.

And much more...

Today's Show Was Brought To You By Gusto - Your One Stop Payroll Solution

Spend less time managing your payroll and focus on what you do best -- dentistry.

As a sponsor of the show, I’ve negotiated a deal with Gusto.com to get you 3 full free months for your dental practice. Yes… 3 free months. Of course, it’s a no-risk trial that you can cancel anytime - but I’m confident after giving them a try, you won’t want to use anything else. They are that good. Just head to Gusto.com/dentistmetrics for your free trial of an easy to use and efficient payroll solution. Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Hey ambitious dentists,

I have a super short episode for you today, but I think the message is incredibly powerful.

Today I wanted to share a few quick thoughts on the power of vacation. It's no secret that building a successful dental practice requires a ton of time and energy, but I genuinely believe taking time off can be a powerful tool to not only recharge but also come back fresh and motivated when you return.

So if you are one of those dentists who could use a little break, I think you'll get a lot out of today's episode.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * Why it's so important to take time off... especially if you think you don't have the time * What to do on vacation to come back refreshed and ready to take action * How vacation can help you solve problems or issues that have kept you stuck. * The permission you need to finally take that much-needed break... ;-)

And much more...

Today's Show Was Brought To You By Gusto - Your One Stop Payroll Solution Spend less time managing your payroll and focus on what you do best -- dentistry.

As a sponsor of the show, I’ve negotiated a deal with Gusto.com to get you 3 full free months for your dental practice. Yes… 3 free months. Of course, it’s a no-risk trial that you can cancel anytime - but I’m confident after giving them a try, you won’t want to use anything else. They are that good. Just head to Gusto.com/dentistmetrics for your free trial of an easy to use and efficient payroll solution. Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Hey ambitious dentists,

I hope you had a relaxing Labor Day weekend and were able to put your extra day off to good use. I know I really enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Today I wanted to share a self-hosted episode where I talk about the differences between a general CPA and a dental CPA, and how to choose which one is right for you. Over the last few months, I've noticed a slight uptick in the amount of emails I've received asking for which route to take. Being a dental CPA myself, I may be slightly biased, but in all honesty whether or not you use a general CPA or a dental CPA comes down to a lot of factors. I put this episode together to share my thoughts on the pros and cons of each and how to make the best choice for your practice. I had a ton of fun putting this episode together for you, and I hope you find it helpful. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * Why there is no one size fit all for your CPA needs and how to choose the one right for you. * Common misconceptions about both general and dental CPA's * What I've Learned From Being a general CPA and a dental CPA * The pros and cons of both general and dental CPA's./li>And much more....

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Hey Ambitious Dentists,

I have a really exciting interview for you today, with the one and only Weston Lunsford, CEO of Dental Intel…

Dental Intel is one of the most popular tools used by dentists to help track the metrics and numbers that matter, so you can focus on dentistry.

In addition to running Dental Intel, Weston is very active in the dental community and is always looking for ways to help dentists make breakthroughs in their practice.

As a numbers guy myself, I couldn’t be more excited about our conversation today.

In today’s interview, you will learn...

And much more.

If you’re looking to make better use of your metrics, and increase case acceptance for your practice, you won’t want to miss our conversation.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How Weston has seen some of his clients see case acceptance by 5,10 or even 15% in a little as just a few weeks. * Why knowing your numbers is only the first step… and how to turn your metrics into actionable insights * How Weston got into the dental industry and what he’s learned running Dental Intel * Weston’s view on failure… and how it’s helped him find success. * The golf club analogy and how it applies to your practice.

Now here’s the interview, with Weston Lunsford.

View Details

Ever run into this problem?

A patient comes into your office with a major tooth ache. Within minutes you know they need a procedure done. Problem is… the procedure is a bit on the expensive side.

You explain the situation to your patient, and the patient agrees, they WANT the treatment... But simply can’t afford the cost.

So they ask you to do the minimal amount to make the pain go away. Of course, within a few months, they will be back sitting in the chair right where they started.

The truth of the matter is, as a dentist you provide services that can change a patient's lives, but that doesn’t always come cheap.

Fortunately, there are some alternatives out there today that allow you to provide the care you recommend while not forcing the patient into financial ruin.

How? By providing quality patient financing.

They keyword there is quality.

Of course, there are a few bad apples in the financial space who offer those in need predatory interest rates, but with today’s technology and information at hand, there ARE options and services that aim to create win-win- situations for all those involved.

The lenders can make money, you generate more revenue for your practice, and the patient gets the service they deserve.

Today’s guests Brad Bailor and Dave Roehr of Proceed Finance have a very interesting background and I think you’ll find their view of patient financings interesting, even if you don’t plan to offer patient financing.

Here is some of what you will learn today:

  • Why quality patient financing can create additional revenue for you and your practice AND help your patients afford the care they need.
  • Brad and Dave’s “risk shared model” and why they believe it’s changing the world of dental financing.
  • How to decide if patient financing is right for your practice.
  • Common misconceptions of patient financing as well as the pros and cons.

And much more.

Now here’s my interview with Brad Bailor and Dave Roehr.

View Details

Whether you’re just about to start your dental practice or looking to take your current practice to the next level, it all starts with building a good team.

In dental school, you learned how to fill a cavity and spent thousands of hours studying dentistry… but I’m guessing you didn’t have to take a course on how to build a great team.

Which is why I’m so excited to introduce today’s guest Alex Nottingham, CEO of All-Star Dental Academy.

For those of you who haven’t heard of Alex, he is one of THE experts when it comes to building a great team and has provided hundreds of dentists all across the world the training and resources to set your dental practice up for success.

As I mention in the interview, Alex and I have been wanting to do this interview for over two years, and I think it was definitely worth the wait!

Here are a few things you'll learn:

  • Why building a team is so important, and the 2-3 things it takes to succeed.
  • The importance of “coaching” and why you need to make it a priority.
  • Alex’s “Business Growth Formula” and how you can apply it to your practice.
  • Why not investing in employee training now, can actually cost you thousands of dollars down the road.

And much more.

Quotes

"Price is important… but you’re changing lives. You’re SAVING lives." - Alex Nottingham

Resources All-Star Dental Academy

LAST Chane To Enter The 4 Books Every Dentist Should Read Giveaway! We're excited to announce our very first book giveaway here at Start Your Dental Practice, my way of saying thanks for being a part of the SYDP community! To enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to receive four of my favorite books that I recommend to my clients. This is your last chance to enter before our drawing on Thursday.

There's no catch to join and in a few weeks I'll be picking a subscriber at random and sending the books their way!

Already have a copy of the books? No worries -- if you win I'll send you a $50 dollar gift card instead.

Again, to enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to win! I'll also immediately send you the list of books in case you can't wait and want to invest in the books today.

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Today I'm really excited to be sharing part two of my self-hosted episode on how to acquire a dental practice. There's a lot that goes into buying a practice successfully, and in today's episode, I'll expand on what it takes to ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible.

If you enjoy these self-hosted episodes, be sure to let me know what you would like me to cover in the future and I will do my best to do so!

We also only have a few more weeks to enter the "4 Books Every Dentist Must Read" book give away! Be sure to listen to the entire episode to find out how to enter!

  • The Exact Steps of Buying A Practice And The Best Practices A Long The Way.
  • How To Find The Right Practices For Sale That Will Save You Both Time And Money.
  • The Importance of Knowing Your Strengths and Weaknesses When Buying A Practice.
  • Why Looking ONLY at Cost Can End Up Hurting You In The Long Run.
  • Some of The Most Common Frustrations Many of My Clients Have Faced And How To Avoid Them

And much more.

Quotes

"Understanding your strengths and weakensesses is very important when buying a dental practice." - Jonathan VanHorn

"Don't always start with the lowest costing practice" - Jonathan VanHorn

Enter The 4 Books Every Dentist Should Read Giveaway! We're excited to announce our very first book giveaway here at Start Your Dental Practice, my way of saying thanks for being a part of the SYDP community! To enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to receive four of my favorite books that I recommend to my clients.

There's no catch to join and in a few weeks I'll be picking a subscriber at random and sending the books their way!

Already have a copy of the books? No worries -- if you win I'll send you a $50 dollar gift card instead.

Again, to enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to win! I'll also immediately send you the list of books in case you can't wait and want to invest in the books today.

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

One of my favorite ways to stay “up to date” with the dental industry is to be active in a few high-value Facebook groups. And though “social media” often gets a bad rap for being a waste of time, I often find the discussions and comments highly valuable.

When done correctly, Facebook groups help you stay on top of the latest trends and build meaningful connections with other dentists and professionals.

Were it not for Facebook groups, I wouldn’t be introducing today’s two very special guests, Dr. Glenn Vo and Dr. Vinh Nguyen of Nifty Thrifty Dentists.

When I first joined the Nifty Thrifty Dentist Facebook group a while back, I wasn’t sure what to expect. “Nifty thrifty dentists?!?!” but I quickly learned that Dr. Glenn and Dr. Vinh are the real deal and have created an amazing community in a short period of time.

I’m excited to share my conversation with them and what they have learned from building such an incredible community.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How Their Popular Dental Facebook Group Transformed into A Podcast and Beyond * What it means to be a “nifty and thrifty” dentist. * Why you should always seek out “veteran” docs… and what they can teach you. * The “Dental Brand” tax and how to get your essential items for significantly cheaper…

Nifty Thrifty Dentists - Time Tested Strategies For Building A Successful Dental Practice Quotes:

"Anyone can be a cheap, not not everyone can be thrifty" - Dr. Glenn

Enter The 4 Books Every Dentist Should Read Giveaway! We're excited to announce our very first book giveaway here at Start Your Dental Practice, my way of saying thanks for being a part of the SYDP community! To enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to receive four of my favorite books that I recommend to my clients.

There's no catch to join and in a few weeks I'll be picking a subscriber at random and sending the books their way!

Already have a copy of the books? No worries -- if you win I'll send you a $50 dollar gift card instead.

Again, to enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to win! I'll also immediately send you the list of books in case you can't wait and want to invest in the books today.

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

As we gear up for some exciting new changes coming to the SYDP podcast, I wanted to share a self-hosted episode I put together discussing everything you need to know about how to acquire a dental practice.

Having talked with dozens of dentists about the process, I think you'll find this solo episode a great resource if you're in the process of acquiring your first practice or needing some guidance.

Even if you've already had a few acquisitions under your belt, I cover some common mistakes as well.

Many dentists I've spoken with equate the acquisition process to having your first child... you won't know what it's like until it happens, but being prepared goes a long way.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How To Know When You're Ready To Acquire A Practice. And When To Hold Off * Why Choosing The Right Location Is So Important, And How to Ensure You Choose A "Winning" Location * The Best Tips And Tricks For Finding The Perfect Practice On Sale * Why Not All Practices Are Created Equal And What To Look For When Buying * The Importance of Having A Wide Diversity Options To Purchase

And much more.

How To Acquire A Dental Practice Quotes:

"The greatest acquisition opportunities come from personal relationships.." - Jonathan VanHorn

Enter The 4 Books Every Dentist Should Read Giveaway! We're excited to announce our very first book giveaway here at Start Your Dental Practice, my way of saying thanks for being a part of the SYDP community! To enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to receive four of my favorite books that I recommend to my clients.

There's no catch to join and in a few weeks I'll be picking a subscriber at random and sending the books their way!

Already have a copy of the books? No worries -- if you win I'll send you a $50 dollar gift card instead.

Again, to enter the contest just text " fourbooks " to 33444 and you'll be entered to win! I'll also immediately send you the list of books in case you can't wait and want to invest in the books today.

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Aside from graduating dental school, there are very few moments in the course of your dental career that are more important than when you sign the lease for your 1st (or 3rd) dental practice location.

It’s scary. It’s exciting. And if we’re being honest, a little overwhelming.

Did you pay too much? Did you choose the right location? Did you protect yourself legally if anything goes wrong?

At the same time, purchasing a practice means you have tremendous opportunity to grow and scale your services and patient base.

Which is why I’m excited to introduce today’s guest Norman Gelfand. Norman is the founder and president of Gelfand Group and is an expert in commercial real estate with over 20+ years of experience. He’s helped hundreds of dental practice owners negotiate a lease that gives them the best chance to succeed.

In our chat today, he shares everything he knows about how to ensure you sign a lease that makes sense for you.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Looking to lock down your dental practice lease? Make sure you ask these questions first. Click here to get access. [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * The 3-4 things Norman looks for in every dental practice lease when helping dentists find their new location. * Why Norman insists on asking several very specific questions when working with his clients. * The biggest mistakes most dentists make when choosing their lease terms and how to avoid them. * How Norman has helped dentists save hundreds of thousands of dollars in the life of their lease.

And much more.

This Episode Was Brought To You By... As a CPA for dentists, I get a lot of questions about which banks offer both the best rates and service for current and future practice owners and I virtually always recommend Bank of America. As such, I've teamed up to with Bank of America because I believe they are the best at what they do and want to help you get the best dental loan possible.

If you're interested in learning more based on what I discussed on the show, simply text "BankLoan" to the number 33444, and I'll put you in touch with my direct contact at BOA. There's no catch, or obligation if you decide it's not for you after learning more. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have.

Full disclosure -- If you move forward with this goes to help me continue making the Start Your Dental Practice podcast the best podcast and resource for dental practice owners.

Free Episode Bonus Negotiating a dental lease is a complicated process, and just one mistake can affect you for many years to come. Fortunately, there’s the information and resources out there that can help you make the right call.

As a bonus for today, Norman has offered to share his article “The Questions You Must Ask Before You Sign Your Lease.” If you’re in the process of purchasing a new dental practice location, you’ll definitely want to check out the tips he shares.

To get the bonus, simply text PRACTICE to 33444. Again, that’s PRACTICE to 33444 or visit startyourdentalpractice.com/bonus if you’re outside of the US.

You’ll also receive updates on the latest episodes of Start Your Dental Practice, helpful tips for owning and running a practice, and promotional opportunities direct to your inbox.

Click here to access bonus.

Resources: * Gelfand Group

Support The Show Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Chances are if you’re listening to this podcast, you have some student loan debt.

Having worked exclusively with dentists for most of my professional career, it’s not common for me to see aspiring practice owners coming out of school with 400-500k in student loan debt, and that’s only for a dental license!

While we can debate whether or not the large costs are justified, the reality is, without a student loan plan of attack, you’ll be stuck making payments for the rest of your life.

Which is why I’m excited to share my conversation with Travis Hornsby, founder of StudentLoanPlanner.com

Travis has helped hundreds of professionals take control of their finances and student loan debt -- and has an incredible track record of helping his clients become debt free.

Even if you’re fortunate to have paid off your student loans, I know you’ll find a lot of actionable insight from our conversation.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Need help staying on top of your student loans? You'll love Travis's Student Loan Calculator designed to help you pay off debt faster. Click here to get access. [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How Travis got into helping others with their student loan debt (hint: it involves his significant other)
  • How being featured in Business Insider skyrocketed his career.
  • What he’s learned from advising over 82 million in student loan debt collectively amongst his clients.
  • Practical ways anyone can save money to help pay off their student loans faster.

And much more.

This Episode Was Brought To You By...

As a CPA for dentists, I get a lot of questions about which banks offer both the best rates and service for current and future practice owners and I virtually always recommend Bank of America. As such, I've teamed up to with Bank of America because I believe they are the best at what they do and want to help you get the best dental loan possible.

If you're interested in learning more based on what I discussed on the show, simply text "BankLoan" to the number 33444, and I'll put you in touch with my direct contact at BOA. There's no catch, or obligation if you decide it's not for you after learning more. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have.

Full disclosure -- If you move forward with this goes to help me continue making the Start Your Dental Practice podcast the best podcast and resource for dental practice owners.

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks for Travis coming on the show. Chances are good, you may need a hand with your student loan debt.

While many choose to “worry about it later” as Travis shows, taking action now can save you a ton of time and headaches later down the road.

Travis obviously knows what he’s doing, having helped hundreds of people pay down their debt and as a bonus for today, he’s offered his incredibly popular student loan debt calculator which helps you get clear on how to pay your debt off.

I spent some time playing around with it, and it’s fantastic.

Click here to access bonus.

Quote:

Being debt free is incredibly powerful psychologically - Travis Hornsby

Resources:

  • Student Loan Planner

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

According to recent statistics, 55% of American’s don’t have dental insurance. And if your practice is only serving the 45% of patients that do, you’re leaving a ton of money (and profit) on the table.

One way to serve those without insurance is to offer an in-house membership plan, but when done improperly, it can often be more of a headache than a plus.

Fortunately, there’s a method to the madness when it comes to in-house membership plans, which is why I’m excited to have today’s guest Jordon Comstock on the show. Jordon is the founder of BoomCloud a membership plan software that helps you focus on what matters.

If Jordon's name sounds familiar, you may have heard Jordon and his partner Ben have me on the Navigating Dental Insurance podcast in which discussed dental insurance.

What I love about Jordon’s story is how he created a software based on his own needs, and in our conversation, we discuss in-house membership plans in depth.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • How Jordan got involved in the dental industry.
  • The biggest problems most practices face who have in-house membership plans.
  • Why Jordan’s love of technology and dentistry allowed him to create a product that dentists need.
  • The many benefits of recurring revenue and why that should be a focus.
  • What Jordon learned from developing and testing his software and how it applies to growing your own dental practice.

And much more.This Episode Was Brought To You By...

As a CPA for dentists, I get a lot of questions about which banks offer both the best rates and service for current and future practice owners and I virtually always recommend Bank of America. As such, I've teamed up to with Bank of America because I believe they are the best at what they do and want to help you get the best dental loan possible.

If you're interested in learning more based on what I discussed on the show, simply text "BankLoan" to the number 33444, and I'll put you in touch with my direct contact at BOA. There's no catch, or obligation if you decide it's not for you after learning more. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have.

Full disclosure -- If you move forward with this goes to help me continue making the Start Your Dental Practice podcast the best podcast and resource for dental practice owners.

Free Episode Bonus:

A special thanks to Jordon for coming on the show.

Whether you already have an in-house membership plan or are considering adding one to your practice, knowing what mistakes to avoid can help save you both time and money.

As Jordan mentions, staying organized is one of the key factors in having a successful membership plan. Don’t be that person keeping everything in a google doc.

For a bonus today, Jordan has offered his free membership plan ebook which walks you through the dos and dont's of membership plans.

Trust me, just by doing one or two of his suggestions will save you a ton of headaches in the future.

Also be sure to request a demo with Jordon and his team at BoomCloud if it’s something you might be interested in.

Click here to access bonus.

Resources:

  • BoomCloud Dental Membership Software

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

As technology continues to transform the dental industry, the world of insurance and credentialing has become increasingly complex. As a result, dentists are spending more and more of their valuable time trying to figure things out.

And if we’re being honest, most dentists don’t exactly get excited about dealing with insurance and properly codifying their services.

Which is why I’m so excited about today’s SYDP guest Harold Gornbein, Harold is the founder of Apex Reimbursement Specialists, which helps put money back in dentists pockets and saves tons of the time in the process.

With over 20 + years of dealing with insurance, Harold knows exactly what it takes to give dentists the winning edge. I think you’ll enjoy his refreshingly honest take on the world of insurance and negotiation.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Want to learn more about negotiation? Check out Harold's super helpful 5 Steps To Negotiating PPOs Guide here. [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How to get the most reimbursements back from insurance companies.
  • The mistakes most dental practices make that can cost your practice tens of thousands of dollars.
  • The proper way to codify your services, and why it’s so important.
  • How to put money back into your practice have it work for you.
  • The biggest lessons Harold has learned from dealing with insurance for over 20 years.

And much more.

This Episode Was Brought To You By...

As a CPA for dentists, I get a lot of questions about which banks offer both the best rates and service for current and future practice owners and I virtually always recommend Bank of America. As such, I've teamed up to with Bank of America because I believe they are the best at what they do and want to help you get the best dental loan possible.

If you're interested in learning more based on what I discussed on the show, simply text "BankLoan" to the number 33444, and I'll put you in touch with my direct contact at BOA. There's no catch, or obligation if you decide it's not for you after learning more. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have.

Full disclosure -- If you move forward with this goes to help me continue making the Start Your Dental Practice podcast the best podcast and resource for dental practice owners.

Free Episode Bonus:

A special thanks to Harold coming on the show. Just making a few tweaks in how you deal with insurance and negotiations can have a lasting effect on your practice's bottom line.

As a bonus for today, Harold has shared his 5 Steps To Negotiating PPOs Guide, which is super valuable regardless if you’re a new practice owner, or have been around the block a few times.

I highly suggest you take a look.

Click here to access bonus.

Quotes:

"Everyone needs to understand, the time frame for credentialing negotiations are 30-90 days." -Harold Gornbein

Resources:

  • Apex Reimbursement

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

One of the best parts about running the Start Your Dental Practice podcast is all the interesting opportunities that it has created for me, both personally and professionally.

I get emails and phone calls from listeners all the time sharing their successes, failures, and all the big things they want to accomplish. It’s such a great feeling and an incredible honor.

On occasion, some listeners will reach out in hopes of coming on the show and to pitch their latest product or service, but as you know, that would go against everything I believe here at SYDP.

However, sometimes I get a request from a listener who absolutely blows me away with their story and accomplishments, and that would be today’s guest Dr. Darold Opp.

Dr. Darold is a now retired, former practice owner, who was able to see some great success over the years in the dental industry. He now spends his time helping other dentists get to where they want to go.

In our chat we cover a lot of ground, mistakes he’s made, things he did well, and why creating a family-friendly practice is one of the best things you can do.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Enjoyed my conversation with Dr. Darold Opp and want to learn more? Get the How To Create A Successful Dental Practice PDF here. [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • The unbelievable story of how Dr. Darold went on to became a dentist.
  • Why searching for shortcuts can actually hurt your dental practice, and what to do instead.
  • How Dr. Opp went from 500,000 in debt in 2010 to building a wildly successful practice
  • Why making your office kid friendly should be your number one priority.
  • How being creative can really set you apart from your competition.

And much more.

This Episode Was Brought To You By...

As a CPA for dentists, I get a lot of questions about which banks offer both the best rates and service for current and future practice owners and I virtually always recommend Bank of America. As such, I've teamed up to with Bank of America because I believe they are the best at what they do and want to help you get the best dental loan possible.

If you're interested in learning more based on what I discussed on the show, simply text "BankLoan" to the number 33444, and I'll put you in touch with my direct contact at BOA. There's no catch, or obligation if you decide it's not for you after learning more. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have.

Full disclosure -- If you move forward with this goes to help me continue making the Start Your Dental Practice podcast the best podcast and resource for dental practice owners.

Free Episode Bonus:

A special thanks Dr. Darold for coming on the show. I really enjoyed his approach on how to make your dental practice family friendly and think doing so can help your practice a ton.

Sometimes we get so caught up in our “bottom line” we forget about truly serving our patients.
As a bonus for today, Dr. Darold has shared his super in-depth powerpoint on how to build a successful practice. There are over a dozen gems that I know you’ll find valuable.

Click here to access bonus by just following the instructions.

Quotes:

“If you want to be successful… Life is work.” - Dr. Darold Opp“You have to be creative” - Dr. Darold Opp

Resources:

  • Aberdeensmiles.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

There are many things that go into building a successful dental practice.

Good marketing helps get patients in the door.

A high-quality team makes sure things run smoothly.

And delivering great service ensures your patients leave happy.

But there’s a huge factor, that many small businesses owners, especially dental practices, often neglect, that can have a huge impact on your bottom line.

What’s that? Your office design.

Look, the second your patients step into your office, you want to make sure you’re leaving a good impression.

Which is why I’m excited to have Cheryl Janis founder of Cheryl Janis Designs on the show. Cheryl specializes in building high nurturing environments for purpose-driven physicians and healthcare businesses helping them get the most out of their office space.

While we talk a lot about increasing revenues, marketing, and SEO, here on SYDP, I really think Cheryl will make you rethink the importance of design and your office environment.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Looking to make some tweaks to your office? Learn what colors are right for your practice here. [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • The biggest mistakes most practice owners make when designing their office, and how to fix them.
  • How to humanize your dental practice and make people love the
  • Why good office design can have a direct impact on your practice revenues.
  • The color that inspires “trust” and how you can implement it in your office today.
  • How just a few additions to your office can transform your patient experience.

And much more.

This Episode Was Brought To You By...

As a CPA for dentists, I get a lot of questions about which banks offer both the best rates and service for current and future practice owners and I virtually always recommend Bank of America. As such, I've teamed up to with Bank of America because I believe they are the best at what they do and want to help you get the best dental loan possible.

If you're interested in learning more based on what I discussed on the show, simply text "BankLoan" to the number 33444, and I'll put you in touch with my direct contact at BOA. There's no catch, or obligation if you decide it's not for you after learning more. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have.

Full disclosure -- If you move forward with this goes to help me continue making the Start Your Dental Practice podcast the best podcast and resource for dental practice owners.

Free Episode Bonus:

A special thanks for Cheryl coming on the show. Office design is something that isn’t talked about much in the dental industry, but as Cheryl shares, it can really make a difference.

Not knowing much about office design myself, I really enjoyed Cheryl’s perspective and hope you came away with a few takeaways as well.

As a bonus for today, Cheryl has generously offered her free report on how to choose the right paint colors for your office.

If you’ve been meaning to make some office modifications, I highly recommend you give it a look.

Click here to access bonus by just following the instructions.

Quotes:

“Building relationships is key in building a profitable practice.” - Cheryl Janis

Resources:

  • Cheryl Janis Designs

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

We all know, getting on the front page of Google or Bing can have a huge impact on your business, especially when it comes to getting more patients in the chair.

But how exactly can you improve your practices SEO? That’s not quite as clear.

With no shortage of SEO advice and grand promises from shady marketers, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction with regard to SEO.

Which is why I always love talking with marketers and SEO experts who have the results to show.

Justin Morgan is one of those experts. He’s the founder and CEO of Dental Marketing Guy and has helped hundreds of dental practice owners improve their SEO.

If you’re active on DentalTown or any of the other popular dentist Facebook you’ve likely seen him adding value and engaging with the community.

Justin doesn’t just share a bunch of theory of what works, he has the clients and testimonials to back it up.

I think you’ll find Justin’s approach to SEO easy to understand and very actionable.

Get The Intro To Invisalinks SEO Video Here

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How to generate high-quality backlinks without being spammy.
  • The right time to “focus” on SEO and why it’s important.
  • How a strong SEO presence can help you get top dollar if you ever decide to sell your practice.
  • The latest SEO tweaks that actually work…
  • How to get into the psychology of patients to deliver them a better service and experience.

And much more

This Episode Was Brought To You By...

As a CPA for dentists, I get a lot of questions about which banks offer both the best rates and service for current and future practice owners and I virtually always recommend Bank of America. As such, I've teamed up to with Bank of America because I believe they are the best at what they do and want to help you get the best dental loan possible.

If you're interested in learning more based on what I discussed on the show, simply text "BankLoan" to the number 33444, and I'll put you in touch with my direct contact at BOA. There's no catch, or obligation if you decide it's not for you after learning more. I'm also happy to answer any questions you might have.

Full disclosure -- If you move forward with this goes to help me continue making the Start Your Dental Practice podcast the best podcast and resource for dental practice owners.

Free Episode Bonus

A very special thanks for Justin coming on the show. I hope you enjoyed our conversation as much as I did. If you’ve been slacking with your SEO efforts, it’s time to start putting the work in so you can get results.

As a bonus for today, Justin has offered an exclusive 41-minute introduction video for his upcoming course Invisalinks Dental SEO.

It’s jam packed with value, even if you end up not purchasing his course, I highly recommend you give it a watch.

To get the bonus, simply text PRACTICE to 33444. Again, that’s PRACTICE to 33444 or visit startyourdentalpractice.com/bonus if you’re outside of the US.

You'll also receive updates on the latest episodes of Start Your Dental Practice, helpful tips for owning and running a practice, and promotional opportunities direct to your inbox.

Click here to access bonus by just following the instructions.

Quotes:

“ Getting into the psychology of the search is the future of SEO.” - Justin Morgan

“ One of the best ways to improve your SEO, is get links through high quality website.” - Justin Morgan

Resources:

  • DentalMarketingGuy
  • InvisalinksMethod

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Anyone can grow a successful practice with the right strategy, attitude, and a little bit of luck. I truly believe that.

But being a dentist is about more than just padding your pockets. It’s about service. It’s about community. It’s about making a difference, while also building a life of financial freedom.

No one starts their dental practice wanting to just get by. But unfortunately, that’s exactly where many practices end up. And I want to help change that.

Of course, everyone has different metrics of success, but at the end of the day, you want to make a difference while being financially free.

Which is why I’m so excited to have Dr. Chris Phelps back on the show… you may remember him from episode 6 over two years ago…

Not only is he an incredibly successful practice owner, he is truly one of the “good guys” in the dental space…

Dr. Chris is the owner of Carolinas Dental Center of Matthews, and founder of Call Tracker ROI.

And since we last talked, he’s continued to grow his practices and give back to the community.

I think you’ll really enjoy our conversation.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Learn How To Increase Case Acceptance Through Ethical Persuasion Click here! [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How To Reduce No Shows And Increase Your Revenues Virtually Overnight
  • Dr. Chris’s Best Tips And Tricks For Effectively Managing A High Performing Team
  • How To Ethically Persuade Your Patients And Team
  • Why Dr. Chris Started Golden Goose Scheduling
  • The biggest challenges dentists face with scheduling… and how to overcome them.
  • How To Do More With Less… And Why It’s Important For Your Practice

And much more…

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Chris for coming back on the show. It’s been great to see how much he’s done in the two years since we’ve last talked. And it just goes to show, when you focus on the right things… you can see great success with your dental practice.

As a bonus today, he's offered to share some of his best tips and strategies to increase case acceptance.

To get the bonus, simply text PRACTICE to 33444. Again, that’s PRACTICE to 33444 or visit startyourdentalpractice.com/bonus if you’re outside of the US.

You’ll also receive updates on the latest episodes of Start Your Dental Practice, helpful tips for owning and running a practice, and promotional opportunities direct to your inbox.

Click here to access bonus by just following the instructions.

Resources:

  • Golden Goose Scheduling
  • Call Tracker ROI

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

It turns out, many dentist practice owners need help getting their retirement plans in order, based on the incredible response we received from SYDP 75 with Tom Zgainer from America’s Best 401k.

I received dozens of personal emails from SYDP listeners saying how informative the episode was and how it really helped them to start thinking about their future.

And I wanted to have Tom back on the show to dive deeper.

In today’s episode, we get a little more technical and go in depth on everything you need to know about 401K’s as a dental practice owner.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Get your personalized plan for retirement options. Click here![/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • The many types of 401K plans, and how to decide which one is right for you.
  • How To Maximize Your Retirement Opportunities
  • How To Build The “Habit of Saving” — Yes Saving Is A Habit
  • The Differences Between A Traditional IRA and ROTH IRA.
  • Why Some Action Is Better Than None When It Comes To Retirement

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Tom for coming back on the show. Planning for the future is one of the best things you can do to ensure both a successful practice and life.

When it comes to retirement, things can be a little bit tricky. But as you learned on the show, inaction can cost you.. Especially if you’re young and just starting out.

So if there’s one episode you take action on this year, make it be this one.

As a bonus for today, Tom has generously offered a personalized illustration plan of various retirement options, regardless of where you stand today.

To get the bonus, simply text PRACTICE to 33444. Again, that’s PRACTICE to 33444 or visit startyourdentalpractice.com/bonus if you’re outside of the US.

You’ll also receive updates on the latest episodes of Start Your Dental Practice, helpful tips for owning and running a practice, and promotional opportunities direct to your inbox.

Click here to access bonus by just following the instructions.

Quotes:

“You have to plan for the sunny AND the rainy days...” - Tom Zgainer

“ Retirement is daunting if you procrastinate.. But not if you start today…” - Tom Zgainer

“You have to be willing to commit to this….” Tom Zgainer

Resources:

  • America'sBest401k
  • Email: Tomz@americasbest401k.com
  • It's Your Money

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Do you count down the seconds on the clock until you can go home? Are you feeling burned out with all the work you’re putting into your dental practice? Do you feel like you have no time for anything else?

If you’re like most dental practice owners, you probably answered yes.

Look… everyone has a different reason for starting a dental practice, and while it is incredibly rewarding at times, it’s also a never-ending grind.

Make no mistake, running a successful practice is hard work, but it DOESN’T have to consume you every waking hour.

You CAN have successful practice while still having time for your relationships, watching sports, hanging out with your kids, or anything else you like to spend time doing.

My guest today, Justin Short is living proof.

Justin owns a very successful practice in the STL area and is also the founder of TheLifestylePractice.com where he shares his tips on how to maximize productivity and break free from the never ending grind.

For the last several years he’s been obsessed with how to grow his practice while still having work-life balance.
I think you’ll find his approach to work refreshing, and I know there are a few things you’ll be able to apply to your own practice.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Learn the 5 things you DON'T Need To Have A Wildly Successful Practice -- Click here! [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How Justin Works An Average of 2 Days A Week While Still Running A Successful Dental Practice
  • The Secret To Work-Life Balance (It’s Not What You Think)
  • How Justin DOUBLED his practice revenue in less than 5 years.
  • Why Justin Is So Passionate About Changing His Patients Lives And How It Helps Him Grow His Business.
  • Justin’s Self Improvement Philosophy And How You Can Apply It To Your Practice.

Free Episode Bonus:

A special thanks to Justin for joining us today. We can all use a little more time in our life to focus on things other than business, and Justin has devoted his life to helping dentists reclaim their work life balance.

As a bonus for today, Justin has generously shared his free report, 5 Things You Don’t Need To Have For A Successful Practice.

You’ll definitely find a few of his suggestions counterintuitive, but his results speak for themselves.

I highly recommend you give it a read.

Click here for the bonus.

Resources:

  • TheLifestylePractice.com
  • Des Perez Dentistry

Quotes:

“Staying engaged with every patient every day.. are huge factors in growing your dental practice.” - Justin Short

“Patients want to know… can you help me? Can you fix my problems?” - Justin Short

“If you’re getting turned down over and over ... it’s not the patient's fault…. You need to get better.” - Justin Short

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn't exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

As a dental practice owner trying to grow your business, you’re always on the lookout for new ways to get patients in the door.

But let’s be honest, with so many options, it can be just a little bit overwhelming.

I’ve even experienced this myself, with my business DentistMetrics.

How many times have you heard the following from a friend or colleague.

“You need to be on Facebook.”

“You need to be running Google ads.”

“You need to be on Instagram… Snapchat.. Or the latest marketing platform.”

Of course, many of these tools and strategies are great for bringing in more business, but in always searching for the ‘next best thing’ we often neglect the simple path to what actually works.

One of the things that just works but is often overlooked, is patient reviews.

Which is why I’m excited to share today’s conversation with Dr. Shawn Van De Vyver who previously joined us on Episode 35 of the podcast.

Dr. Shawn is the Founder of Great Lakes Dentistry and a super successful entrepreneur in the dental space. And he’s cracked the code on how to get patient reviews without spending hours of your time with the process.

I think you’ll find our conversation eye opening when it comes to the power of patient reviews.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Want to get more reviews? You'll love today's bonus: 13 ways to get more patient reviews. Get the checklist here! [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • Dr. Shawn’s favorite optimization tweaks for your dental practice marketing.
  • The dreaded “dental tax” and why it hurts dentists.
  • Why you should always be thinking of ways to automate your practice.
  • The “low hanging fruit” effect of patient reviews.
  • Why Shawn decided to build the dental software he needed himself.
  • The myth of the “magic bullet” and how to stay focused.

Free Episode Bonus

A huge thanks to Dr. Shawn for coming back on the show and keeping us to date with how to automate and optimize your dental practice.

As Dr. Shawn mentioned, while there’s no magic bullet in any business, there are some things you can do that will add considerable value overtime.

Getting more patient reviews is one of them.

As a bonus for today, Shawn has generously offered his 13 Ways To Get More Patient Reviews Checklist as well as a VERY special LIFETIME discount to his new dental software.

If you’re looking to get more reviews for your practice and avoid the “dental tax” this might be perfect for you.

Click here to learn how to get more patient reviews.

Quotes:

  • “You shouldn’t have to pay more for the same tools.. Just because you’re a dentist.” - Dr Shawn Van De Vyver
  • “It doesn’t have to be a formal thing.. You can plant the seed for patients to leave a review. It starts with the office culture.” -Dr Shawn Van De Vyver

Resources:

  • AutoFrontOffice
  • Great Lakes Dentistry

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

One of the hardest parts about running a dental practice is keeping a consistent revenue stream coming in month after month.

Some months you might do great.. And the next month.. Not so much.

This often leads to an incredible amount of stress and lost productivity.

Of course, you can always ramp up your marketing and referral efforts, but sometimes that’s just not enough. Fortunately there are other ways to ensure the lights stay on while staying sane.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with Dr. John Montoya, owner of two successful practices and founder of Boulder Dental Design the Elm Savings Plan.

I think you’ll find our conversation full of actionable insights you can take today to help improve your practice.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • How John was able to double the production in his practice.
  • Why having a patient savings plan can make all the difference for you and your business.
  • The power of “passive income” and how to create more revenue streams for your dental practice.
  • The best way to simplify your marketing and advertising efforts..

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Dr. John Montoya for sharing his insights on how to build consistent and reliable revenue streams for your dental practice. The more revenue streams you have coming in the more time you can focus on the big picture items that will really make a difference for you and your business.

As a bonus today John has offered a significant discount on his Elm Savings Plan.

Quotes:

“Everything trails down to your finances." - Dr. John Montoya

Resources:

  • Elm's Savings Plan
  • Contact: info@elmsavingsplan.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

As we say time and time again here at Start Your Dental Practice, building a successful practice is many years of hard work.

And where there’s no shortage of tips and strategies to help take your practice to the next level.. There’s something that isn’t often talked about in the dental space.

The topic?

Retirement.

Look, even if you just graduated and are just now beginning your journey.. Or if you’ve been at it for a decade -- it’s never too early (or too late) to get your ducks in a row -- especially when it comes to retirement.

You can have the most successful practice imaginable, but without a solid retirement plan, in the end, you’ll be asking yourself “what happened?”

I want to help change that.

Which is why I’m excited to share my conversation with Tom Zgainer CEO and founder of America’s Best 401k. For the last 30 years, he’s helped small and large business owners craft the perfect retirement plan, while specifically focusing on the power of 401K’s.

Even if you haven’t even begun to think about the “R Word” I know you’ll get a ton out of our conversation, especially if you’re just getting started.

I even took a ton of my notes myself.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Get your personalized plan for retirement options. Click here![/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • Why Starting Your 401 k Plan NOW Is the Best Thing You Can For Future Wealth
  • The Power of The Compound Effect And How It Affects Your Business And Life
  • The “Sunny Day” Philosophy And How To Get Started Today.
  • 3 Alternatives To 401K’s That Will Help Get You And Your Money On Track

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Tom for coming on the show. Planning for the future is one of the best things you can do to ensure both a successful practice and life.

When it comes to retirement, things can be a little bit tricky. But as you learned on the show, inaction can cost you.. Especially if you’re young and just starting out.

So if there’s one episode you take action on this year, make it be this one.

As a bonus for today, Tom has generously offered a personalized illustration plan of various retirement options if you're starting out and a quick review of your plan if you already have one.

Click here to access bonus by just following the instructions.

Quotes:

“We never worry about our money.. Until we do” - Tom Zgainer

Resources:

  • America'sBest401k
  • Email: Tomz@americasbest401k.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

You don’t need a dental CPA who runs a podcast to tell you that the world of dentistry is changing. And changing fast.

New ways to market, constantly changing best practices, and an increasingly competitive landscape. And for the millennials who are just getting out of school, things can get a little overwhelming.

While corporate dentistry is thriving, if you want to start and grow your practice today you better be prepared to join the Wild Wild West..

But the truth is, with the right game plan, there’s never been a better time to start your own practice -- yes, even if you’re a millennial.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with Dr. Sullivan, a self proclaimed millennial himself at age 28, Dr. Sully recently launched his very own podcast The Millennial Dentist and runs a successful practice himself.

We talk about how to build a thriving practice in the year 2017, and explore some of the most common issues millennial practice owners face. Even if you’re not a millennial, there’s plenty of insights to go around.

Last call - Get My 5 Ways To Get The Most Out of Your Next Dental Conference Guide Click here for the guide!

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • Why Dr. Sully started a podcast and how to decide if starting a podcast is right for you.
  • Why You Should Choose Experience Over Money When Starting Out
  • What You Need To Know If You’re Just Graduating And How To Set Yourself Up For Success
  • Why Associateships Can Help You Get Started In The Dental World
  • How To Keep Up With The Latest Marketing Trends And Implement Them in Your PracticeAnd much more.

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Dr. Sully for sharing his perspective on how millennials can succeed in starting and growing their dental practice.

For a bonus today, I’ll be sharing for the last time my 5 Ways To Get The Most Out of Your Next Dental Conference. After today, I’ll be pulling the bonus down and working on some even greater guides and content.

Many listeners have already told me how they've used some of the tips and strategies at conferences and have had some incredible results.

Click here to access the guide!

Quotes:

“We need to be forward thinking.. And make the most out of all our opportunities.” - Dr. Sullivan

Resources:

  • Millennial Dentist

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

As I’ve mentioned, on a few previous episodes of SYDP, I had the pleasure of speaking at and attending the Voices of Dentistry Podcast Event.

It’s not often that I go to conferences that absolutely blow me away, but I can honestly say this was one of those times.

During the event, it wasn’t long before I discovered what I can only explain as ‘superwoman’ --- who was anywhere and everywhere helping making sure everyone has a great time.

Turns out superwoman, aka Ashlee Evans, was not only responsible for running a virtually flawless Voices of Dentistry Podcast event -- but she has also been Dr. Mark Costes right hand woman in building the extremely successful Dental Success Institute l for the last 5 years.

After getting to know her at the event, I just knew I had to have her on the show.

We cover a ton of ground, talking about hiring, productivity, and getting the most from your team. As well as how she’s able to get a seemingly impossible amount done in her day to day life.

How You Hire Is Important. Learn Ashlee's Secrets To Hiring And Getting More Done Click here for the video and presentation

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • Why you should hire for culture first.
  • How to motivate and encourage your employees to get more done.
  • The importance of sharing your values with your team and employees.
  • 3 Things Ashlee Does With Every New Hire
  • How To Build A Culture of Communication.
  • The leadership qualities it takes to succeed

And much more.

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Ashlee for coming on the show. Building a great culture can make all the difference in your practice.. And that starts with hiring the right people and making sure you’re the best leader you can be.

As a bonus for today, Ashlee has shared a powerpoint presentation and video on how to hire effectively for your practice. If the success she’s had so far in career is an indicator, you definitely won’t want to miss it. Hiring the right way can truly make all the difference.

Click here to access the video.

Quotes:

“Hire for culture first” – Ashlee Evans

Resources:

True Dental Success

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Everyone has their own reason for wanting to build a successful dental practice, and ultimately that reason is what keeps you pushing through, even when times get tough.

Somedays you’ll be on top of the world, and others you’ll think about throwing in the towel.

But as they say, the journey is what makes things worth it in the end.

Today, I’m excited to share another conversation I recently had at the Voices of Dentistry event with Dr. Peter Boulden, host of the BulletProof Dental Podcast and owner of several successful practices in Atlanta, Georgia.

Peter has cracked the code on what it takes to building a successful practice, and his optimistic attitude is contagious.

In our conversation we talk about how to stay focused and the best tips and strategies to take your practice to the next level.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Want to get the most out of your next Dental conference? You'll love my 5 Ways To Get More Out of Your Next Dental Conference Guide Click here for the guide [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How Peter discovered embezzlement in his practice and what he did to recover.
  • The power of setting ambitious goals, and why you need to think big.
  • How to deal with naysayers, especially your family and friends.
  • Why you should embrace your mistakes, not hide from them.
  • What Dr. Boulden would do differently if he had to start over today.
  • How to know if you’re “ready” to become a practice owner. And much more...

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Peter for sharing his insights and strategies on how to build a thriving and profitable practice. It’s not always easy, but doing the hard things today, will set you up for a rewarding future down the road.

Since I’ve released my how to get more out of your next conference guide few weeks ago, I’ve received a ton of great feedback and it just might be exactly what you need to make your next conference your best one yet.

I put a ton of effort into this guide, and if you plan on attending a conference this year, I know you'll love it.

Click here for the guide.

Quotes:

“I knew I wanted to be the chief of my own dentistry.” - Dr. Peter Boulden

Resources:

Bulletproof Dental Practice

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Dental. Supplies.

No, I’m not trying to intentionally give you a headache or make your blood pressure immediately rise by mentioning those dreaded words.

But.. if we’re being honest.. It’s no secret that finding the right supplies at the right cost.. In a time efficient manner… is one of the hardest things to do as a dentist.

And we didn’t even mention good quality.

There has been a lot of innovation in the dental space over the years, but I haven’t seen anything quite like what today’s guest is doing, helping dental owners get the best supplies for the cheapest cost.. In just a few clicks.

Today I’m very excited to share my conversation with Tiger Safarov -- CEO of Zen Supplies. His story is nothing short of incredible, and I really believe he just might be able to change the way you look at dental supplies when it comes to your practice.

Take Tiger's Inventory Challenge -- He'll Help You Save Money or You Get 12 months access to ZenSupplies for free. Click here to learn more.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • Tiger’s Inspiring Story On How He’s Disrupting The Dentist Industry With His Tech Startup
  • The Quickest Way To Reduce Your Inventory Cost.
  • Why Most Dental Software Doesn’t Have The End Consumer (You) In Mind And How Tiger Hopes To Fix That.
  • The Bad Habits Most Dentist’s Have When It Comes To Purchasing Inventory And How To Fix Them
  • Why The Secrecy Behind Dental Inventory Is Hurting The Community.

And much more.

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Tiger for sticking around and sharing some incredible insight on his mission to change the dental world.

As you heard, Tiger has generously offered to take a look at your some of your most recent invoices --- and personally show you how you can reduce your supply costs.

Because he knows SYDP listeners take action he also issued an exclusive SYDP challenge. If he can’t help you reduce your costs.. He’ll give you 12 months of free membership to ZenSupplies.

This is definitely one of those times you want to take action.

You really have nothing to lose.

Click here to learn more about the challenge.

Quotes:

“With Zen Supplies our main driver is to make things as easy as possible for you.” - Tiger Safarov

Resources:

  • Zen Supplies

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

The tools and software you use to run your practice can either help enable you get more done.. Or make life needlessly complicated.

For dentists, it’s often the latter.

Fortunately, we’ve seen some incredible innovation in the dental tools and software space over the last few years which is why I’m incredibly excited to share my conversation with Kevin Rossen of Divergent Dental, whom I had the chance to sit down with a few weeks ago at the Voices of Dentistry event.

In our quick chat we covered a ton of ground about how to effectively track the numbers in your practice, in a way that doesn’t drive you insane.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"] Want to get the most from your next dental conference? You'll love the guide I put together. Click Here For The Guide [/su_note]

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • Kevin’s Morning Huddle Method To Instantly Boost Team Productivity
  • The 3 metrics that are essential to track in your practice.
  • Why not all dental software is created equal, and how to choose the right tools.
  • The metrics you should know daily, and the metrics you can “ignore” when starting out.
  • How To Overcome The Barriers To Tracking Certain Metrics (And Increase Staff Buy In)

And much more.

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Kevin for joining the show today. If you build the right systems for your practice, you can effortlessly track the numbers that matter.

Over the last few weeks I’ve talked a lot about some amazing conferences to grow your practice. Several listeners have reached out asking how I make the most out of each conference I attend. So today, I put together a free guide “5 Ways To Get More Out of Any Conference You Attend”

I really think you'll get a lot out of the guide, even if a conference isn't quite on your radar yet.

I talk about tips for networking and why setting goals for your conference is important.

Click here to get the guide.

Quotes:

  • “You don’t have to know all your numbers daily. Just the right ones.” - Kevin Rossen

Resources:

  • Divergent Dental

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Look.

Running a successful dental practice is incredibly difficult.

Day in and day out, you’re juggling marketing, budgets, growing your team.. and a million other things on your always expanding todo list.

I get it.

And yet… at the end of the day, as a practice owner, you have to remember, you’re in the SERVICE industry.

Which means, everything you do should be focused on providing the best service you possibly can.

Because ultimately that’s what keeps the lights on.

Which unfortunately, many dentists often forget.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with Dr. Anissa Holmes from Delivering Wow. You may remember her from episode 9 of the SYDP podcast where she shared her insight on how to get the most out of Facebook.

We recently had a chance to reconnect at the Voices of Dentistry Summit and I knew I had to have her back on the show. I’m absolutely blown away with what’s she’s been able to accomplish since we last sat down to chat.

As cliche as it might sound, she really delivers the wow in this one and shares exactly how to do the same for your practice.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"]Enjoy the episode? You'll Love The Delivering Wow Roadmap Checklist from Dr. Anissa Holmes Click Here For The Checklist[/su_note] Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • What “delivering wow” means to Anissa, and how you can apply it to your own practice.
  • Anissa’s expansion to teaching, and how it’s also helped accelerate her own practice.
  • Her decision process on whether to purchase another practice.
  • How to grow your practice and WORK LESS (yes, it’s true.)
  • The systems and team you need to fast track your growth.
  • How to increase your “Luck" through discipline.
  • The power of “reverse engineering” and how it applies to you.

And much more.

Free Episode Bonus

A special thanks to Anissa for coming on the show. As she has proven time and time again, by over delivering in your practice and life, you can blow your competition out of the water and deliver an experience that your patients won’t ever forget.

If you want to "deliver wow" in your own practice, you'll love her free delivering wow roadmap checklist. She goes through dozens of things you can do TODAY, to create the best possible experience for your your practice.

It goes without saying, she's one of the very few who actually practice what the preach, and I know you'll get a ton out of the roadmap.

Click here to get the checklist.

Quotes:

  • “I've grown my practice.. and work less.” - Dr. Anissa Holmes
  • "A great experience matters." - Dr. Anissa Holmes

Resources:

  • Delivering Wow
  • Twitter

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

As you may know, a few weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending the Voices of Dentistry event.

It was easily one of the best events I’ve attended in recent memory, and I was fortunate to connect with some of the best in the business.

Turns out, when a bunch of podcasters get together for a live event, they tend to.. Well.. record some podcasts.

I hope to be sharing what I learned over the next few weeks as well as some of the many conversations I had with other top performing attendees and speakers.

Today I’m excited to share my chat with Dr. Mike DiTolla, who you might know from the Accidental Genius Podcast or the Dentsply Sirona event.

He dives deep into mastering the art of crowns and bridges as well of some of his best tips and tricks to grow your practice. Without exception improving your crown and bridge procedures can make a huge difference in your practice.

Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How To Leverage Community To Grow Your Network And Practice * How Dr. Mike DiTolla got into the Dentist Industry And What He’s Learned From 25 + years in the field. * Why “Mobile” is so important for your practice and continued education. * 3 Mistakes New Dentists Make And How To Avoid Them * Why Dentists Are Like Professional Athletes and What That Means For Your Practice * The Best Way To Learn From Your Peers To Improve Your Procedures.

And much more.

Bonus

A special thanks to Mike getting into the nitty gritty on how to improve crown and bridge procedures as well as sharing his 25+ years of dental industry knowledge.

As Mike mentions, most dentists never truly master the art of crowns and bridges. I hope this episode has inspired you to rethink and improve your current procedures. Master the clinical side of your practice, and I know you'll see great results.

If you want to get an inside look into the planning, and strategy of fast growing dental practice owners you’ll love the event The Dental Ownership Summit.

Quotes:

  • “There’s no excuse to not do great crown and bridge preparations.” - Dr. Mike DiTolla

Resources:

  • The Dental Ownership Summit
  • Dentsply Sirona World
  • Accidental Geniuses Podcast

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

There comes a time in the life of every dental practice when one practice just isn’t enough.

Which brings you to the next logical step -- expansion.

Maybe acquiring your first (or yet another) practice has been on the top of your goals for 2017. Or maybe you’re not quite there yet.

Regardless, knowing how to navigate the often turbulent waters of practice acquisition is an important skill to build a thriving practice now and for many years to come.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with Hunter Smith owner of the Southern Dental Group.

What he’s been able to do at the young age of 28 is nothing short of amazing.

You may remember him from episode 38 of Dentist Metrics where he talked about his process on how he was able to acquire 5 practices.

In the short time since we’ve last talked, he’s acquired yet another practice and has positioned himself to continue to invest in his future while sharing what he’s learned along the way.

Even if you’re not “ready” to acquire a practice yet , I know you’ll get a ton out of our conversation .

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"]Learn Everything You Need To Know About Buying Your First Practice At The Dental Ownership Summit Learn More Here.[/su_note] Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • When You Should Consider Acquire A Practice And When Not Too
  • How Hunter Is Able To Acquire A Practice Nearly Every Quarter
  • Why Acquiring Your First Practice Is Harder Than Expanding Further
  • The “Double Effort Myth” When It Comes To Acquiring A New Practice
  • The Chicken Before The Egg Mistake And How To Avoid It
  • The New Practice Mindset and How To Develop It
  • How To Handle Staff Transition During The Acquisition Process.
  • The Leadership Factor When Buying A New Practice
  • How To Be Confident During Chaos And Demonstrate Leadership To Your Team

Free Episode Bonus:

Want to learn more about dental ownership? You’ll love the upcoming Dental Ownership Summit February 16th and 17th in San Antonio, where some of the best in the dental industry share what they know to take your practice to the next level. You'll learn virtually everything you need to know about how to buy a practice successfully.

I personally know many of the attendees and speakers and know you'll get a ton of value out of the event. Texas is always wonderful this time a year as well so you'll get the best of both worlds.

Learn More Now

Quotes:

  • "Buying your first practice is always the hardest step. But can make all the difference." - Hunter Smith

Resources

  • Dental Ownership Summit (February 16th and 17th In San Antonio Texas)
  • hunterasmithdds@gmail.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

There comes a time in the life of every dental practice when one practice just isn’t enough.

Which brings you to the next logical step -- expansion.

Maybe acquiring your first (or yet another) practice has been on the top of your goals for 2017. Or maybe you’re not quite there yet.

Regardless, knowing how to navigate the often turbulent waters of practice acquisition is an important skill to build a thriving practice now and for many years to come.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with Hunter Smith owner of the Southern Dental Group.

What he’s been able to do at the young age of 28 is nothing short of amazing.

You may remember him from episode 38 of Dentist Metrics where he talked about his process on how he was able to acquire 5 practices.

In the short time since we’ve last talked, he’s acquired yet another practice and has positioned himself to continue to invest in his future while sharing what he’s learned along the way.

Even if you’re not “ready” to acquire a practice yet , I know you’ll get a ton out of our conversation .

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"]Learn Everything You Need To Know About Buying Your First Practice At The Dental Ownership Summit Learn More Here.[/su_note] Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • When You Should Consider Acquire A Practice And When Not Too
  • How Hunter Is Able To Acquire A Practice Nearly Every Quarter
  • Why Acquiring Your First Practice Is Harder Than Expanding Further
  • The “Double Effort Myth” When It Comes To Acquiring A New Practice
  • The Chicken Before The Egg Mistake And How To Avoid It
  • The New Practice Mindset and How To Develop It
  • How To Handle Staff Transition During The Acquisition Process.
  • The Leadership Factor When Buying A New Practice
  • How To Be Confident During Chaos And Demonstrate Leadership To Your Team

Free Episode Bonus:

Want to learn more about dental ownership? You’ll love the upcoming Dental Ownership Summit February 16th and 17th in San Antonio, where some of the best in the dental industry share what they know to take your practice to the next level. You'll learn virtually everything you need to know about how to buy a practice successfully.

I personally know many of the attendees and speakers and know you'll get a ton of value out of the event. Texas is always wonderful this time a year as well so you'll get the best of both worlds.

Learn More Now

Quotes:

  • "Buying your first practice is always the hardest step. But can make all the difference." - Hunter Smith

Resources

  • Dental Ownership Summit (February 16th and 17th In San Antonio Texas)
  • hunterasmithdds@gmail.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Budgets. If we’re being honest, they don’t always have the reputation as the most “fun” topics in the world of dentistry. But a solid budget can make all the difference in keeping the lights on at the end of the day. The good news is, budgeting is a skill can that be learned, regardless of what stage your practice is in today. The more you budget, the better you get. The better you get, the more time you can use to focus on the things that will take your practice to the next level. Who doesn’t like a little more time? In today’s solo episode, I’ll be exploring one of the most requested topics from SYDP listeners and my DentistMetrics clients. Don’t worry, I won’t bore you with useless stats or random formulas, but instead I'll share my perspective on the pros and cons of budgeting and some suggestions I've found to work. If you loved today's episode, you'll enjoy my Budgeting Example Spreadsheet that will help you get a better understanding of how to create a budget that works. Click Here To Check Out The Examples Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • The Biggest Mistakes Dentists Make When Budgeting And What To Do Instead.
  • 3 Questions You Should Answer Before Starting Your Budget
  • How "Over Budgeting" Can Actually Hurt Your Practice
  • Why You Should View Budgeting As A Tool Rather An Annoyance
  • The Types of Budgeting Needed For All Stages of Your Practice (Yes.. They Are Different)
  • The Key Steps To Avoid "Waste" In Your Practice
  • Why Budgeting Once A Year Is Not Remotely Enough
  • The Budgeting Formula If You’re Just Getting Started
  • When To Know If You're Spending Too Much Time On Budgeting
  • How To Incorporate Education Into Your Budget.. And much more...

Free Episode Bonus:

Now’s the time to take action. Saying you want to get better at budgeting is one thing. Actually making the time to make that happen is a totally different story.

For today’s episode, I’ve created a free Budge Example Spreadsheet — that will help you get a better understanding of what a successful budget entails and exactly what you need to do to make it work for you. Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “You want to spend money to make more money.” – Jonathan VanHorn

Support The Show

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

A strong marketing strategy is essential to get more patients in the door.

You know that. But… unfortunately, with so many options out there, it’s so easy to feel overwhelmed and stuck.

Maybe you can relate.

Instead of mastering the basics, you jump from one marketing strategy to the next.. And not surprisingly you might not see the results you were looking for.

As most SYDP listeners know, the dental industry does have a few bad apples that ruin things for everyone. Trust can be a little hard to come by.

No there is no magic pill to get 1,000 new patients in your door by next week.

No there is no SEO strategy that will get you on the first page of Google overnight.

A good marketing strategy requires relentless testing, patience, and a little bit of good luck.

Which is why I’m so excited to share my conversation with Laura Maly and Michael Anderson, founders of the the Wonderist Agency an agency that focuses exclusively on serving the dental community.

Several practice owners and SYDP listeners have emailed me to praise their work. And I think you’ll find our conversation on the state of dental marketing surprisingly refreshing and you’ll walk away with several actionable insights such as…

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"]If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy Laura and Michael's Ten Ways To Get New Patients PDF Click Here To Check Out The Guide[/su_note] Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How Laura And Michael Got Into The Dentistry Industry
  • Why Most Dental Agencies Are So Out Of Date
  • The Key Metrics You Should Track Consistently For Improvement
  • The Importance of Avoiding “Shiny Object” Syndrome.
  • Why One Size Fit All Marketing Can Kill Your Practice
  • How To Get Started With Tracking And Which Metrics You Should Measure
  • 3 Bad Marketing Habits You Should Avoid
  • The “10 Million Dollar Mistake” You Might Be Making
  • How To Stop Being Overwhelmed With Your Marketing
  • Why You Need To Communicate With Your Staff About Your Marketing Strategy

Free Episode Bonus:

As Michael and Laura discussed, doing marketing the right way is what's going to take your practice to the next level. You don't have to follow every random marketing suggestion or tactic. Instead, pick a few areas you want to focus on and get to work.

If you loved today’s episode, than I know you’ll get a ton out of Laura and Michael’s Ten Ways To Get New Patients PDF You’ll definitely want to take action on how to get more from patients referrals. I highly recommend you give it a look.

Click here to access that now.

 **Quotes:**
  • “You have to be tracking.” - Michael Anderson
  • “Start Call Tracking Today. No really.” - Laura Maly

Resources:

  • CallRail
  • CallTrackingMetrics
  • Wonderist Agency

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Note: This is an encore of SYDP episode 48 with Dr. Alan Mead updated with time sensitive information about the Voices of Dentistry event you won't want to miss! If you want a weekend full of learning and connecting with the best of the best Voices of Dentistry is for you. We'll be back to our regularly scheduled programming on Monday 1/16/2017 !

Today’s show features a pioneer in dentistry and to dental podcasters.

Dr. Alan Mead is the master behind Mead Family Dentistry and the widely known Dental Hacks Podcast.

Dr. Mead grew up around his dad’s dental practice and quickly found his passion in running a practice of his own at a young age.

Just like with any dental practice business, Dr. Mead has seen his fair share of ups, downs, and everything in between.

There’s something for you in this episode if you’ve been running a practice of your own, wanting to start one, or if you’re in the startup phase.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode: * How Dr. Mead basically “stole” a practice from someone else * What happens when you think you’re a terrible business person (and what to do to combat this) * The mistakes you DON’T want to make when running your own practice * The advantages of owning a “dive” practice * What to do if you’re brand new, fresh out of dental school, and looking to start a practice * The best skill you can have when opening up your first practice * What to look for, demographics-wise, when opening up a practice in a new geolocation * An event you need to attend, if you’re serious about dentistry, to meet some of the biggest names in the industry

Voices of Dentistry Event! Quotes:

  • “If you can not buy into the marketing of what a dental practice ‘should be’. You can save money in the bigger decisions.” – Dr. Alan Mead

Resources:

  • Mead Family Dentistry
  • Dr. Mead’s Podcast
  • Dr. Costes’ Podcast
  • The Skeptics Guide To The Universe
  • Muggle Cast
  • David Mallolly’s Podcast
  • Voices of Dentistry | Dentistry’s First Podcaster Summit

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Happy New Year SYDP fans! I hope the first few days of 2017 have gotten off to a great start! I’m honored to have you be a part of the SYDP community.

Now look, if you’re like me, you’re probably feeling super excited at all the things you’re going to accomplish in 2017.

You’re finally gonna start going to the gym. You’re finally going to hit that monthly revenue goal. You’re finally gonna hire your 1st, 2nd, or even 5th employee.

Maybe you even dare to dream of having a vacation.

Having goals and being excited are a good thing.

But as I say time and time again on the show, you have to execute. You have to do the hard work.

Too often, we look for the easy fix. The “everything done for us” solution for all our needs.

And give up when our motivation fades or we don’t see the instant results.

Be honest.. How often does that work?

Probably never.

Which is why I’m super excited to share my conversation with Michael Arias to kick off the new year.

Michael is the founder of The Dental Marketer Site and host of the Dental Marketer Podcast where he teaches how to take your practice to the next level through actionable ground marketing strategies.

In the episode you’ll notice, Michael is truly a “go getter” in every sense of the word and I don’t think the word “excuse” exists in his vocabulary.

If you like today’s show, you’ll love Michael’s quick quiz that will tell you exactly how many patients your practice should be attracting and what to do to get there. Get that here. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • How “Marketing Pipelines” Can Transform Your Practice And How To Get Started
  • Why Throwing A Local Event For Your Community Should Be A Priority in 2017
  • 5 Boots On The Ground Marketing Strategies That Actually Work
  • How Targeting Local Businesses Can Be A Great Marketing Method
  • The Importance of Authenticity When Marketing Your Practice
  • 3 Current Marketing Trends You Should Be Trying
  • Why Specific Incentives Are So Powerful For Your Practice.
  • The No Excuses Way To Get More Patients In The Door
  • Why You Need To Outsource Your Marketing And Sales
  • How To Get Comfortable With Rejection

Free Episode Bonus:

It’s clear from our conversation, Michael makes things happen, and I promise if you take action on today’s episode you’ll definitely see results.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, you absolutely don’t want to miss the awesome bonus Michael has put together for SYDP listeners. He’s shared his short “How Many Patients Should My Practice Be Attracting” quiz, which will help you get crystal clear on how to get the most from your practice.

Just answering the questions alone, will be incredibly helpful in building out your 2017 marketing strategy.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “Work smarter.. Not harder.” - Michael Arias
  • “People love the idea.. But execution often lacks.” - Michael Arias
  • “Doing Business Without Advertising Is Like Winking At A Girl In the Dark” - Michael Arias
  • “Bits of dentistry can be taught… but you can’t teach a good personality.” - Michael Arias

Resources:

  • The Dental Marketer Podcast
  • The Dental Marketer Site
  • The Dental Marketer Twitter

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

A few weeks back, my wife and I were craving sushi and decided to turn to the all knowing Google for answers.

I pulled out my iPhone and typed,“ Best sushi in Little Rock Arkansas.”

Within seconds, we had dozens of places to choose from.

After scanning the page for a few moments, we decided to go with the 2nd listing on Google.

We placed our order and the sushi turned out to be fantastic.

As the sushi place can attest, that’s the power of Search Engine Optimization, or SEO.

Unfortunately, most dental practices consider SEO as an afterthought, when in fact it can often be one of the most important methods of marketing for your practice.

Today, I’m excited to have Mike Pederson, founder of Dental Boost back on the show. You may remember him from SYDP episode 51 where he shared the best practices for your dental website.

I wanted to bring him back on the show and have him share all things SEO. When thinking about your marketing plan for 2017 SEO is a great place to start.

[su_note note_color="#028000 " text_color="#ffffff " radius="5"]If enjoyed today’s show you’ll love Mike Pederson’s Free Digital Assessment for SYDP Listeners. He’ll do a live walkthrough of your site and give you suggestions on how to improve your SEO.Get that here.[/su_note] Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • The Bare Minimum Basics For Learning SEO
  • 3 SEO Mistakes You Can’t Afford To Make
  • The SEO tactics that are working RIGHT now.
  • Why You Need To Take SEO Seriously in 2017
  • How To Know Which SEO Services Are Worth It
  • The Importance of Focus When It Comes To SEO Marketing
  • What To Know When Building A Website For The First Time
  • Why You Should Give Back To Your Local Community
  • The “Light Grey” Method To SEO
  • How To Avoid SEO Penalties For Your Site
  • Buyer Intent Keywords and Why They Matter

Free Episode Bonus:

Look, SEO can be tricky to get right, especially when you’re juggling the other million things you need to do to run a successful practice.

If you need help getting started Mike has generously offered SYDP listeners a free Digital Assessment of your website, where he will walk you through your current site live and share some ways to improve your marketing and SEO.

You definitely don’t want to miss this fantastic opportunity.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “Google’s goal is to always serve the best search result possible.” - Mike Pederson

Resources:

  • The Dental Boost

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

One of my favorite quotes by Benjamin Franklin is when he says “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”

And yet.. Time and time again, when I talk with owners who are struggling to grow their practice, it almost always comes back to a lack of a proper plan.

While I’m a huge fan of taking action (it’s essential), a solid strategic plan can make all the difference especially when acquiring a practice.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with John Cotton, Founder of Dental Team Performance. He’s helped hundreds of new and veteran practice owners alike create and execute their strategic plan.

We dive deep into the what makes a strategic plan so powerful and why you need one regardless of whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow.

If you like today’s show, you’ll love Chapter 4 of John’s new book “How To Grow Your Dental Practice In The New Economy.” He shares his best insights on case acceptance to completion. Get that here Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • The Importance Of Team Accountability And How To Implement It In Your Practice.
  • Why You Need A Strategic Plan Even If You’re 95 years old.
  • The “10K Mistake” You Might Be Making
  • Why You Need A Strategic Plan Even If You “Don’t Have Time
  • The Perfect Length For A Strategic Plan
  • When To Strategic Plan When Acquiring A Practice
  • How To Establish An Effective Employee Bonus System
  • The Bottom Up Strategic Management Philosophy
  • When To Outsource And When To Do It Yourself
  • How To Define Effective Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s)
  • The “BAM” Method To Increase Team Morale
  • How To Effectively Handle Raises With Your Team

Free Episode Bonus

If you loved today’s episode, you’re going to love Chapter 4 of John’s book “How To Grow Your Dental Practice In The New Economy” which he has generously offered for today’s bonus. In chapter 4 he shares his best practices walking you through case acceptance to completion.

So make sure you check out Chapter 4 of his book.

Click here to access that now

Quotes

  • “You have to figure out how to get team buy in.” - John Cotton

Resources

  • Dental Team Performance
  • John@whydtp.com
  • John’s cell phone 205-949-8850

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

You can have the best staff in the world, deliver the best patient experience possible, and have the perfect marketing plan, and still struggle to grow your practice.

How? By choosing the wrong location.

Look, I get it. It’s not easy getting your location right when starting out. Properly understanding demographics is tough.

Fortunately, there’s a way to give yourself the best chance to succeed.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with public speaker and ‘Dental Demographer’ Scott McDonald. He’s the founder of Scott McDonald Associates Doctor Demographics.

In our conversation we dive deep into the science of demographics and how they can make or break your practice. Even if you’re happy with where you’re at, I know you’ll get a ton out of our conversation.

If you enjoyed today’s show you’ll LOVE Scott’s 3 Step Process To Finding The Perfect Location For Your Practice Get that here. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode:

  • How To Identify An Outgoing Going CPA (Joke)
  • What Most Dentists Get Wrong About Choosing Where To Start Their Practice (And What To Do Instead)
  • The Most Common Myths Of Choosing The Right Location For Your Practice
  • How To Determine If Demographics Are Viable For Your Practice
  • Why Choosing A Location With A Lot Of Competition Can Help Skyrocket Your Business
  • The Ideal Ratio Dentist / Population Ratio And When It Doesn’t Matter
  • 3 Misleading Metrics That May Mislead You On Your Path To Practice Growth
  • How To Plan The Future Of Your Practice Through Studying Demographics
  • The Best And Worst Locations To Start Your Practice
  • “The Pet Method” That Helps Build Rapport With Your Patients
  • Why You Have To Do A Demographic Report When Starting Your Practice
  • The One Thing That Makes A Dentist Location Viable
  • How To Make The Most Of Your Demographic Report Data

Free Episode Bonus:

If you enjoyed today’s show, you’ll love Scott’s 3 Steps To Finding The Perfect Location Practice Video. It's jam packed with super valuable insights on choosing the right location for your dental practice.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

“It’s not the data that’s important, it’s what you do with that data that matters.” - Scott McDonald

Resources:

  • Scott McDonald Associates Doctor Demographics
  • (800) 424-6222
  • Scott loves doing podcasts! If you’d like to have him on your show send him a note!

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. I know, I’m still recovering from all the delicious food I had.

In addition to spending time with family and friends, I hope you were able to pause for just a few moments and celebrate everything you have to be grateful for.

Okay. Okay. Enough emotional holiday mumbo jumbo.

Today I’m excited to share my conversation with Dr. Trent McCord.

He is the founder of Mint Dental Care in Centerton, Arkansas.

What he has been able to accomplish with his practice in just under a year is nothing short of remarkable.

You’ll definitely want to hear what he says.

In keeping with the the holiday theme, I especially enjoyed this episode because we talk in depth about giving back to the community as well as living a purpose driven life.

If you like today’s show, you’ll definitely love access to Trent’s viral post, A Dope Does A Startup. Click here to read. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode * How a simple post Trent made on DentalTown took off. * Trent’s journey from dental school to practice ownership * The biggest mistake Trent made when starting out (and how to avoid it.) * How to overcome your fears of building your practice. * Trent’s 3 tips to improve your hiring. * Why you should ALWAYS double check your hiring references. * What drives Trent to build a thriving dental practice. * How Trent stopped being a “people pleaser" and you can too. * Why “luck” plays such a large role in your practice success (and how to increase it.) * Trent’s biggest piece of advice for new practice owners. * How to choose the right location for your practice (it matters more than you might think.) * Trent’s five your vision for his practice. * Why delegating can make or break your business.

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, you’ll really get a lot out of Trent’s viral post, A Dope Does A Startup.

Pay close attention to the dozens of thoughtful comments left by practice owners just like you. The power of community can make all the difference.

Click here to get the post!

Quotes:

  • “That’s part of our vision, to be a part of the community, and give back. It’s so important.” - Trent McCord

Resources:

  • Breakaway Practice
  • Mint Dental Care Arkansas
  • TrentMcCord@gmail.com
  • Phone: 405-834-6348

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Time and time again, we talk about how important it is to execute if you want to run or grow a successful dental practice.

Hard, smart work matters.

But contrary to popular belief, you don’t have work 100 hour weeks to make things happen. In fact, in our experience, that will only lead you to burn out.

Focusing and executing on the right things, is far more important than how much you work.

Which is why I’m so excited to share with you my conversation with Dr. Cole Brenny.

Cole is the founder of Practingdentist.com one of the most popular dentist communities online. He is also a practicing dentist and owner of Ivory Dental Group in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

You’ll quickly notice in our conversation how much passion he has for the world of dentistry, and why that has allowed him to be so successful.

At the end of the episode, you’ll also find out where you can get access to Cole’s brand new book “Dental CEO” for free. He breaks down everything you need to know about branding, marketing, and creating the ultimate patient experience.

So be sure to listen all the way through this entire interview to get access to that.

If you enjoyed my conversation with Cole, be sure to get free access to his latest book, “Dental CEO” Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • How to have open and honest conversations (that will boost morale)
  • Why dentist partnerships are like marriage, and how to keep the “romance” alive.
  • 3 Big Areas To focus on to improve Your practice
  • The marketing on steroids method of acquiring patients from another practice.
  • How to shift from associate to partnership thinking.
  • Why less is more when it comes to growing your business.
  • The different types of dentist styles and why they matter.
  • Why not getting a mentor is one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
  • Best practices for acquiring a practice, even if it’s your first time.
  • The steroid marketing method of acquiring patients from another practice.
  • Why Cole focused on “recreating the patient experience and how it transformed his business.

Free Episode Bonus:

Enjoyed the show and want to learn more from Cole?

Cole has generously offered access to his brand new book Dental CEO. He’ll share everything you need to know to take your practice to the next level.

You definitely don’t want to miss it.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

“You have to create the best patient experience possible.” – Dr. Cole Brenny

Resources:

  • Practicing Dentist

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Cash. Is. Oxygen.

In order to run a successful practice, not only do you have to provide exceptional service to your patients, you also have to master the art of collecting money.

Here at Dentist Metrics, we talk all about marketing, branding, and getting the most from your staff… But at the end of the day, collecting on your accounts receivable is what keeps your doors open.

Unfortunately, collecting from your patients, isn’t always easy.

Patients in financial distress. Countless insurance calls. Maybe your new front desk hire makes a mistake.

As way say… running a practice is hard.

But.. time and time again, we see that the most successful practice owners have their ducks in a row.

They know how to collect their money.

Which is why I’m so excited to share my conversation with today’s guest Andy Cleveland. Self proclaimed AR Ninja, Andrew is an accounts receivable consultant who has helped hundreds of practices master the art of collecting money.

In our conversation he shares a ton of tips and tactics on how to make sure you’re getting paid, while staying professional.

If you like today’s show, you’ll love Andy’s Patient Checkout Script To Increase Conversions Get that here. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • 3 Simple Tricks To Recover Lost Revenue
  • Why Andy got into the dental business.
  • The power of specialization in your business and life.
  • When it’s too late to collect payment...
  • Why filing insurance properly is SO important to your business.
  • Why outsourcing your insurance might make sense for you.
  • The philosophy of continuous improvement.
  • How to use escalation in your language to get paid more
  • The best time to call patients to collect overdue invoices.

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to love Andy’s free Patient Checkout Script To Increase Conversions PDF.

Trust me. I’ve been sharing this script with some of my clients and their results have been nothing short of amazing.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

“The dental industry is grossly underserved.” - Andrew Cleveland

Resources:

  • Andy Cleveland
  • Andy’s personal phone number: Cell Phone -- 864-517-2233
  • Email Andy for his free Patient Checkout Script Bonus - ARNinja@andycleveland.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

We all have different reasons for wanting to start a dental practice. Maybe you’ve always had a passion for the dental industry. Or maybe you love making a difference in your patients lives. Or perhaps, you just love the challenge of building a thriving dental business.

The truth is, whatever your reason, what you do matters.

But it’s sometimes easy to forget.

We get so caught up in the grind to build our practice that we let it run our lives.

And yet, I truly believe you can have both a successful practice and a lifestyle you love.
Which is why I’m so excited to share my conversation with today’s guest Ben Kacos.

Ben is a private practice dentist and a coach and consultant for the Dental Success Institute. He is also the founder of ExploreEducationCE, a unique continuing education program which mixes dental education with an outdoor sports twist.

He’s been fortunate enough to be mentored by some of the best in the business, and has some surprising insights on how to take your practice to the next level.

His unique story is something you won’t want to miss.

If you enjoyed my talk with Ben today, be sure to get access to a highlight reel from one of his most popular keynote speeches. Click here to access that now. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode

  • What to do with employees that aren’t “coachable”
  • Why Ben, choose less money to learn more when starting starting his dentistry career.
  • The mistakes Ben made when he acquired his first practice.
  • How to overcome the “it costs too much” objection.
  • How Ben, was able to acquire his second practice at a rapid pace.
  • The power of “simple systems” and how they can reduce your stress and make you more profitable.
  • The importance of “scaling the unscalable” when merging a practice.
  • Why Ben became a dentist coach and what he’s learned.
  • How to mix business and pleasure, and why Ben runs a duck hunt while teaching dental practice info.
  • How to build relationships with other dentists in your town and location.
  • Why you should avoid a “fee for service” practice when looking to buy.
  • The importance of having a “clinical mentor”
  • 3 Creative ways to build loyalty with your patients.
  • How Fluoride can dramatically improve your practice.

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to love Ben’s highlight reel from one of his most popular keynote speeches. His enthusiasm and passion for dentistry really shows.

To get the highlight reel for his speech, email him here at bkacos@gmail.com using the subject line [Highlight reel bonus]

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

“Find a great clinical mentor… if you don’t understand the clinical side of things.. The business won’t work.” - Dr. Ben Kacos

Resources:

  • Ben’s personal email: bkacos@gmail.com
  • ExploreEducationCE.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

One of my favorite guilty pleasures when winding down to relax, is to watch an episode of the hit the ABC T.V show Shark Tank.

On the show, entrepreneurs from around the world go to the “tank” and pitch their businesses, hoping for one of the “sharks” to give them an investment. Some get a deal. Others don’t.

But I’ve noticed something interesting. The majority of companies that don’t get a deal have one thing in common.
They don’t know their numbers.

Now think back to your practice. Do you know your numbers as well as you should? Maybe you’ve spent some time on it. But knowing some of your numbers just won’t cut it. You have to REALLY know them.

Which is why I’m thrilled to introduce today’s guest Rohit Garg. Rohit, is the founder of Practice by Numbers, a data and metrics tool that helps you translate your numbers into actionable insight you and your office manager can actually understand. Rohit’s story is fascinating, and I guarantee you’ll find something to implement in your practice today.

If you enjoyed today’s show, make sure to sign up for a free demo of The Practice By Numbers Software.

Rohit will use your actual numbers during the demo. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The power of instant feedback, and why it matters.
  • A simple way to leverage competitiveness within your practice.
  • The boiling frog analogy, and why it matters to you.
  • The secret to setting achievable goals.
  • How to A/B test different strategies with your practice.
  • 3 metrics you should know off the top of your head.
  • Why growing a practice is so hard, and the key to push through growth barriers.
  • How 70 percent of dentist data comes from “unknown sources” and how to fix it.
  • How tracking your numbers can help you communicate better with your staff.
  • The cost of not knowing your numbers.

Free Episode Bonus: As an added bonus for today, Rohit has generously offered a free demo of his software, Practice By The Numbers. He’ll hop on a quick call with you and use your actual data for the demo.

I’ve been able to play around with it, and I can honestly say it’s fantastic. Be sure to take him up on this offer quickly though, because spots are limited. Click here to schedule a call today.

Quote:

“Creating busywork doesn’t create accountability. It just creates busy work. - Rohit Garg

Resources:

  • Practice By Numbers
  • Practice By Numbers Facebook

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give me an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Is stress controlling your life?

Chances are if you're listening to this, you're more than familiar with the stresses of everyday life.

Student loans. Family obligations. Personal issues. Overcoming barriers with your practice. The list goes on and on.

It's tough. On top of that, running a successful dental practice is hard. It demands your best 24/7 and then some.

And at times, you may feel like giving up. According to recent statistics 1 in every 5 Americans consider themselves "extremely stressed," and that's of the general population. Not practice owners like yourself.

The good news is, you're not alone. Having talked to hundreds of practice owners, it's something each and everyone one of us deals with on a daily basis.

The even better news is that you don't have to let stress run your life. It's entirely possible to change your relationship with stress and be insanely productive and happy.

It's possible to build a business and life on your terms.

Today I'm excited to chat with Jen Butler, founder of Jen Butler partners -- A stress management and resiliency training firm. She’s helped hundreds of dentist owners improve their relationship with stress and take control of their businesses and lives.

If you like today’s show, you’ll love Jen’s “10 Ways To Be Less Stressed” guide. She’ll share some of the best ways to reduce stress and get more done. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode

  • 3 Common stress triggers and how to overcome them.
  • The “B word” that might be hurting your practice.
  • Why your problems are more common than you think.
  • 5 Things all successful practices have.
  • Common limiting beliefs that are holding you back.
  • The science of stress and why it’s so important.
  • How to improve your “adaptability.”
  • The best way to feed your mindset on a routine basis.
  • Why you won’t always be “On” and why that’s okay.
  • The power of the “unconscious mind” and how it affects you.
  • Why the brain is built to focus on the negative and how to overcome it.
  • The difference between “knowing” and “thinking and why it matters.

Free Episode Bonus:

Enjoyed today’s conversation with Jen Butler? Than you’ll love the free bonus she’s prepared for you.

Jen has put together a free guide, “10 Ways To Be Less Stressed.” I’m definitely going to be trying some of these suggestions out, and I know you’ll get a lot out of it as well.

Click here to access that now.

Quote:

  • “Dentistry isn’t easy. So you have to be passionate to succeed.” - Jen Butler

Resources:

  • 3 Myths Dentists Believe That Hold Them Back From Success (Blog post)
  • Jen Butler Partners (Her website)
  • Connect On Twitter

Jen’s Personal Cell Phone Number - 623-776-6715

View Details

A few weeks ago, I shared some of the best strategies, tips, and lessons I’ve learned from talking to hundreds of practice owners in various stages of their practice.

It was without a doubt one of the most popular episodes on the Start Your Dental Practice Podcast.

Today I’m excited to expand on some of those ideas and share some actionable steps you can take to continue to grow your practice.

I had a blast doing this and am confident you’ll come away with some new insights you can apply right away.

At the end of the episode, I’ll also share some more information about the 2nd opening of my exclusive dentist practice mastermind.

I’ll share a little bit more about the mastermind and help you decide if it’s right for you. Be sure to listen to the end as spots are extremely limited.

If you enjoyed today’s show, you’ll also love my free guide “15 Numbers That Will Make Or Break Your Practice.” Click here to get today’s episode bonus. Here are a few things you’ll learn…

  • Why good leadership is essential for your practice.
  • How to systematically become a better business owner, even if you’re not a “natural born leader.”
  • 3 barriers that are holding your practice back, and how to overcome them.
  • The best investment you can make for the future success of your practice.
  • The exact things you need to track to see success.
  • 3 key things you should do that have the most impact on your bottom line.
  • Why now is the best time to grow your practice… But why it won’t last long.
  • How to make marketing your ally, instead of a giant headache.
  • Why the most successful dentist practices don’t spend a lot on marketing
  • How to avoid the “15 million dollar mistake.”
  • the “capacity problem” and how to avoid it.
  • The secret to getting the most of your day, without any additional stress.

Bonus

Thanks so much for listening to today’s show! As you know, overcoming just one barrier can have a tremendous impact on the success of your practice.

As a special bonus this week you’re getting access to my free guide, “15 Numbers That Will Make Or Break Your Practice”.

Once you download you’ll also get a chance to setup a free strategy session to talk about your dental practice and to see if the upcoming Ambitious Dentist Mastermind is for you.

This is your chance to join myself and 15 other ambitious practice owners where we will hold each other accountable and share what’s working and what’s not.

Registration closes once we hit 15 members or November 1st, which ever one comes first. So don’t wait. We would love to have you join.

Sign up here.

Quotes:

“Your team, is the way your business grows” – Jonathan VanHorn

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Whenever I talk with a practice who is struggling to get where they want to be… The first thing we look at is how they answer their phones.

It’s deceptively simple, but can often make all the difference in the world.

Listening to your phone calls isn’t “sexy” but it can often give you tremendous insight on areas to improve.

Today’s guest, Matt Prados founder of MessageMetric, has spent years mastering the art of phone tracking and knows exactly how to transform your front desk into a referral generating machine. You definitely don’t want to miss today’s episode.

If you enjoyed today’s show, you’ll LOVE the bonus Matt has put together on how to get started with call tracking, and a few tips and tricks your front desk will love. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • How to know EXACTLY where your customers are coming from.
  • Why you HAVE to call track in your practice.
  • Why you should NEVER have your phone go to voicemail during business hours.
  • Why you’re never too busy to listen to your phone calls.
  • An intelligent way to respond to insurance questions over the phone.
  • The secret to being an “effective executive.“
  • How “whisper messages” can transform your practice.
  • How to improve your staff training with a simple step.
  • Why you’re never too busy to listen to your phone calls.
  • A simple way to reduce your patient acquisition cost.
  • Why reviews are essential, and how to get them more.
  • Why more data isn’t enough.. And how to execute on your information you track.
  • How the average front desk wastes 50 percent of the leads.”

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to enjoy the bonus I’ve prepared for you.

There are tons of business and dental podcasts out in the wild, so today you’re getting access to the top 5 dental podcasts for young dentists or existing dentists looking for high-quality shows.

Click here to access that now.

Quote

  • “I want you to talk to the person on the other side of the phone like you talk to your mother.” - Matt Prados

Resources

  • Matt’s Twitter
  • Message Metric - Call Tracking Platform
  • Message Metric Contact
  • Message Metric Telephone - 1 949-383-4022

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give me an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

It’s no secret that virtually every potential patient for your practice spends hours online searching for the “perfect dentist” before picking up the phone.

Taking your website seriously can truly be the difference between struggling month to month or having your phones ring nonstop.

Today’s guest Mike Pederson, founder ofAznetmarketing.com, has helped hundreds of practice owners perfect their website and make them stand out online.

He know’s exactly what it takes to build a website that stands out and brings in clients day after day. In our conversation we dive deep into SEO, Facebook marketing, and online marketing strategies.

If you like today’s show, you’ll LOVE Mike’s FREE Dental Marketing Report that covers the essential elements and strategies for the perfect website. Get that here: http://startyourdentalpractice.com/bonus Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The mindset of the average customer browsing the web for a dentist.
  • How to position your phone number to skyrocket your SEO.
  • The importance of “call to actions” on your website.
  • How to know if your website is designed for success.
  • The most important metric to track for your website.
  • One minor tweak that can significantly improve your website.
  • Why generic stock photos could hurt your business, and what photos to use instead.
  • The type of media you NEED on your website.
  • 3 usability Issues your website probably has and how to fix them.
  • How Facebook marketing could drastically your business.
  • The most important page on your website.
  • Why your website is essential in building trust.

Free Episode Bonus:

If you enjoyed today’s episode, you’ll love Mike’s Free Dental Marketing Report Bonus. In which Mike breaks down the essential elements and strategies of the perfect website and online marketing strategy.

Go here to access that now.

Quotes:

“Your website is your online storefront.”Mike Pedersen

Resources:

  • Follow Mike On Twitter
  • Mike’s Website – Aznetmarketing.com
  • Mike’s Linkedin

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Running a dental practice is one of the most fulfilling things in the world. It’s also one of the toughest. Not to mention.. It can get a little lonely.

Which is why I’m so passionate about building a community where practice owners can come together and share their knowledge and skills to help each other succeed.

Here at Dentist Metrics, we like to focus on the good guys (and girls) who go above and beyond to share their knowledge and passion for the world of dentistry.

Bottom line…

We think it’s important to give back.

Today I’m excited to share with you my conversation with Dr. Richard Low founder of SharedPractices.

His podcast helps aspiring and veteran practice owners take control of their practice by guiding them through the ups and downs of practice ownership.

Each “season”, he dives deep into a specific area of dentistry helping you rise to the top.

If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy Richard’s 8 Season To Dental Practice Ownership – A Roadmap from Graduation To A Success Practice. Get it here: http://startyourdentalpractice.com/bonus Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • Should Your Dental Practice Start A Podcast?
  • The Importance of Having Tough Conversations.
  • What Makes A Successful Dental Practice Owner
  • The Difference Between A Startup And Acquisition.
  • The Importance of Giving Back To The Dental Community
  • The Best Books That Will Help You In Your Dental Practice
  • Why You’re Not As Good of A Leader As You Think
  • Why Understanding Your Overhead Can Make Or Break Your Dental Practice Business
  • When You Should Scale Your Marketing

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to love Richard’s 8 Season Roadmap To Dental Practice Ownership — based off is highly successful podcast.

Richard gives you an up to date snapshot of the world of dentistry, and his Roadmap will guide you all the way from graduation to successful practice ownership.

Go here to access that now.

Quotes:

People are willing to share… you can avoid years of doing the wrong thing by learning from others.” Dr. Richard Low

Resources:

  • Shared Practices
  • The Shared Practices Podcast
  • The E-Myth Revisited
  • Scaling Up
  • Start With Why
  • Crucial Conversations
  • Richard@sharedpractices.com

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

The one thing that separates the just OK dental practice from the top performing dental practice — is a great front desk.

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to get this right. New employees come and go. Front desk training is often neglected. There are a million of other things needing your immediate attention.

Yet the reality is, your front desk is often the life of your dental practice. It’s the first touch point for new and old clients alike.

Today’s guest has mastered the art of front desk training, and has helped hundreds of practices improve their bottom line through intensive online front desk training.

Laura Hatch is the founder of Front Office Rocks, an online education training program, designed to help dental practices train their front desk staff. With over 180+ videos it’s one of go to resources if you’re looking to train your front desk staff.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, you’ll love the New Patient Flow Guide from Laura Hatch. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The one thing you should NEVER say when answering the phone.
  • Why most dental practices fail in customer service.
  • The secret to having great staff meetings.
  • How open door communication can make or break your dental practice.
  • Why good dentistry is like a “performance.”
  • The importance of an “always be improving” mindset for your team.
  • How to reduce resistance when implementing new procedures or training.
  • The biggest mistake most front offices make and how to fix it.
  • Why your “numbers” shouldn’t be your main focus.
  • How to get the staff to “buy in” your your dental practice mission.

Free Episode Bonus:

Ready to improve your front office’s systems and processes?

Then you’re going to want Laura’s ‘New Patient Flow Guide’.

Click here to access that now.

Quote:

“People have more expectations from dental offices than ever before….. You need to remind them why you’re great.” – Laura Hatch

Resources:

  • Front Office Rocks
  • Ask Laura
  • Contact Laura

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Today’s show features a pioneer in dentistry and to dental podcasters.

Dr. Alan Mead is the master behind Mead Family Dentistry and the widely known Dental Hacks Podcast.

Dr. Mead grew up around his dad’s dental practice and quickly found his passion in running a practice of his own at a young age.

Just like with any dental practice business, Dr. Mead has seen his fair share of ups, downs, and everything in between.

There’s something for you in this episode if you’ve been running a practice of your own, wanting to start one, or if you’re in the startup phase.

To access Dr. Alan Mead’s top 5 dental hacks episodes, go here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode: * How Dr. Mead basically “stole” a practice from someone else * What happens when you think you’re a terrible business person (and what to do to combat this) * The mistakes you DON’T want to make when running your own practice * The advantages of owning a “dive” practice * What to do if you’re brand new, fresh out of dental school, and looking to start a practice * The best skill you can have when opening up your first practice * What to look for, demographics-wise, when opening up a practice in a new geolocation * An event you need to attend, if you’re serious about dentistry, to meet some of the biggest names in the industry

Free Episode Bonus:

A special thanks to Dr. Mead for sticking around longer and providing incredible insights into his background in creating a successful dental practice and podcast.

As you know, there’s such a flood of information these days in dentistry, which is why I’m excited for you to dive into Dr. Alan Mead’s top 5 Dental Hacks episodes.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “If you can not buy into the marketing of what a dental practice ‘should be’. You can save money in the bigger decisions.” – Dr. Alan Mead

Resources:

  • Mead Family Dentistry
  • Dr. Mead’s Podcast
  • Dr. Costes’ Podcast
  • The Skeptics Guide To The Universe
  • Muggle Cast
  • David Mallolly’s Podcast
  • Voices of Dentistry | Dentistry’s First Podcaster Summit (use code “START” for 20% off)

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Running a dental practice is hard.

Every day you have thousands of things that are vying for your intention.

And sometimes, in our desire to make things happen we neglect the the basics.

Which is why I’m so excited to have Kerry Straine, the CEO of Straine consulting on the show today.

Kerry has helped hundreds of practice owners master the fundamentals and take their practice to the next level.

Go here to get today’s bonus – a complimentary one-hour consultation and Discovery Tools through the Strain Dental Practice Analysis with Kerry [/su_note] Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • How a single lunch changed Kerry’s career.
  • The largest expense for dentist practices today and how to soften the blow.
  • How to calculate supply and demand for your practice and why it matters
  • Why picking the “Low Fruit” is so important for your practice.
  • The importance of finding your “number” to thrive.. Not just survive.
  • Discover the “patient flow litmus test”
  • The number one indicator of dental practice success.
  • How to use the profit formula for your practice.
  • What makes a good business owner in general and how to apply to your practice.
  • When to expand your practice to multiple locations.
  • How to make the most of your dental practice
  • Why your balance sheet matters more than your income statement.

Free Episode Bonus:

As Kerry mentioned, you must master the basics to really move the needle in your dental practice.

Today’s bonus is exclusive for Start Your Dental Practice listeners.

It’s a complimentary one-hour consultation and Discovery Tools through the Strain Dental Practice Analysis with Kerry.

Go here to access that now.

Quotes:

“If you don’t have a plan in place, you’re planning to fail.” – Kerry Straine

Resources:

  • Straine Consulting
  • Kerry Straine’s personal cell phone number – 916-765-7200
  • Strain Consulting Contact
  • The Strain Consulting Blog

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

I’m excited to share with you my findings from an analysis of the financials of 25 separate dental practices.

The main purpose of this study was to see if I could find any commonalities between practices that were profitable and successful at what they were doing.

I highly recommend going through your practice’s financial statements to understand better where you are generating revenue and where your expenses are going.

In this episode, I will be sharing with you a summary of my analysis of these 25 separate dental practices, the similarities that I found in the 2 groups and things that you might want to start paying attention to if you want to improve your cashflow.

Go here to receive a copy of the successful practice analysis that we discussed today. This tool is definitely helpful whether you are opening a new practice or have already owned one for years.   **Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:**
  • Why does some practices make over a million dollars while some struggle to break $500k.
  • The co-relations between expenses and revenue – where are successful dental practices spending their money?
  • Which areas should you pay attention to if you want to increase your revenue
  • What is the one thing that you can change to make the biggest difference in your revenue
  • How much should you be paying your associates?
  • How to make more money through analyzing revenue for your own dental practice

Free Episode Bonus:

If you enjoyed today’s show, don’t forget to get your copy of the successful practice analysis that we discussed today.

This tool is definitely helpful whether you are opening a new practice or have already owned one for years.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

“The trends and revenue show me that once you pass the $2 million dollar mark, you have a better chance of being successful.” – Jonathan VanHorn

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

The right team can determine a practice’s success or failure.

Having the right people to operate a business is key in ensuring that you are moving in the right direction.

A leader is one who talks to his team, one who understands what is happening in the different departments, and one who finds solutions to help improve flow of the business.

Today’s guest is on a mission to help doctors so that they don’t die broke.

Andre Shirdan is the founder of the CREW process. He has been a practice manager and consultant for almost 20 years and has a lot of intimate knowledge with the world of dentistry.

Since 1989, Andre has worked with thousands of practices helping to create systems for treatment planning, staff training, goal attainment, internal and external marketing, and computer systems integration.

If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy the bonus following. It’s the Stat-Ck protocol to create a Hygiene Crew that meets the needs of your patient flow with clinical excellence, correct insurance billing, and better production. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • Why did he start doing practice consultation?
  • What are some of the things that the old practices do that he wishes the newer practices would follow
  • Are great leaders born or created?
  • How to become a leader in your team that people would follow and respect
  • The best ways to implement new changes in a practice with staff that are resistant to change
  • If he was to start a new practice today, what would he do to build his business successfully

Free Episode Bonus:

If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy the bonus following.

It’s the Stat-Ck protocol to create a Hygiene Crew that meets the needs of your patient flow with clinical excellence, correct insurance billing, and better production.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • Some people need to be successful some place else. – Andre Shirdan

Resources:

  • Andrew’s Cell number: 484 437 5562
  • The Crew Process Website
  • Andrew’s Email: andresyst@comcast.net
  • Find Andrew on Facebook

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Imagine for a moment that you’re standing in front of a future patient.

But you’re not the only one there. You are joined by two other dentists who want the business just as much as you do.

What will get that patient to choose you over your competition?

Although you may not physically find yourself in this situation, this is the reality when it comes to growing your business.

People get bombarded with ads every day.

How will you stand out?

What will set you apart is the word choice in your advertising, and your lead-conversion strategy.

Today’s guest will help you in those areas. He specializes in copywriting and sales funnels.

Jeremy Reeves is the CEO of Kaizen Marketing Inc. He is also host of the Sales Funnel Mastery podcast, where he shares what’s working and what’s not when it comes to creating automated sales funnels.

Jeremy’s insight and strategies has helped numerous business increase their bottom line revenue. Some of his past clients include Mark Hansen (co-author of Chicken Soup for the Soul), Than Merrill (real estate investor and cast member on A&E’s hit show, Flip This House), and Loral Langemeire (author of The Millionaire Maker).

If you want to learn more about the impact that sales funnels can have on your business, you’ll enjoy the bonus following. It’s a free copy of Jeremy’s report, Constructing A Million Dollar Sales Funnel. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The two most common mistakes that dentists make with their direct mail marketing
  • A simple exercise to help you write sales copy that works
  • How to narrow down your target market so that you market to the people who are most likely to buy (and where to find them)
  • How to decide the delivery method for your marketing
  • The one question to find out if the person or company in charge of your marketing is doing a good job or not (if they can’t answer this, get rid of them immediately)
  • Why it’s a good idea to understand marketing even if you’re paying someone else to do it for you
  • What separates good copy from bad copy

Free Episode Bonus:

As you’ll learn in this episode, you have the ability to increase your ROI on your marketing dollars by making some adjustments to your current systems.

As a bonus for today, you can download Jeremy’s free report called Constructing A Million Dollar Sales Funnel. The information in this report applies to all types of businesses, but you can take these principles and integrate it into your own dental practice marketing strategy.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

“If you’re getting okay results, you can do so much better.” -Jeremy Reeves

Resources:

  • Visit Jeremy’s Website
  • Listen to Sales Funnel Mastery Podcast

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Owning a dental practice gives you the opportunity to make lots of money.

But just as dental school doesn’t teach you the business side of dentistry, it also leaves out the financial literacy aspect.

Building wealth will prove to be extremely difficult (even impossible) if you are financially illiterate.

On today’s show, we welcome back a very special guest, Dr. Tom Larkin.

Dr. Larkin, also known as The Renaissance Man in dentistry, joins us this time to share some instrumental information that can help shape your financial future.

Dr. Larkin is the clinical director for Ideal Practices. He is also the founder of OralWellnessCenter.org, which is doing some incredibly fascinating things as far as linking oral systemic health with dentistry. He is also an instructor at Louisville’s School of Dentistry.

If you learned a few things from today’s show, stick around to check out the bonus. It’s the Four Rock-Solid Financial Literacy Tips. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The surprising history of marketing in dentistry
  • Four rock-solid financial literacy tips (follow these to set yourself up for long-term success)
  • A little-known fact about mutual funds (if you overlook this truth, you’ll be leaving LOTS money on the table)
  • A stock market rule to follow that could potentially multiply your money
  • What you need to know about human nature and greed that is a key part to financial literacy
  • How to increase your income simply by changing your mindset and habits
  • A few subjects you should educate yourself on to increase your financial literacy
  • A recommendation on how to work together with your significant other to build a solid financial foundation

Free Episode Bonus:

If you gained a lot of value out of today’s show, then you’re going to want to take advantage of the bonus I’ve prepared for you.

Owning a dental practice gives you the opportunity to make lots of money. But the principles you use to manage it is even more important than the amount that you make.

To help you take action right away, you can download Dr. Larkin’s Four Rock-Solid Financial Literacy Tips.

Go here to get that now.

Quotes:

“Financial illiteracy is the root of corporate dentistry.” -Dr. Larkin

Resources:

  • Email Dr. Tom Larkin
  • Learn About Warren Buffett
  • Learn About Dave Ramsey
  • Learn About Greg Stanley

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Marketing is an essential part to the success of your business.

And although it can be a relatively large expense, it often yields poor results (or worse, can be a complete waste of money).

For that reason, new marketing trends are often met with skepticism.

…Especially when it comes to online marketing.

Today’s guest is NOT about hype. She’s about PROVEN RESULTS.

Dr. Anissa Holmes is the founder of Delivering Wow and host of the Delivering Wow Podcast. She is owner of one of the most successful dental practices in Jamaica.

Dr. Holmes has had incredible results using Facebook to grow her practice, and reveals all her top strategies in the FBMastery Course For Dentists.

She joins us on the show today to share some of her extremely valuable Facebook insight.

Dr. Holmes shares some great tips on today’s show. If you want to learn more, you can download your own copy of her Facebook Success Blueprint. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The advantage that Facebook offers that you do not get with other online marketing tools
  • The minor detail within Facebook ads that greatly impacts engagement
  • A common mistake made when boosting Facebook posts that keeps you from growing your audience
  • The three types of Facebook campaigns that will give you the best results (one of these is NEW to Facebook and you’ll want to start using IMMEDIATELY)
  • How online advertising is different for a dental practice than it is for an online marketer (and why you should ignore some of the advice they give)
  • Why you’ll get far better results managing your business Facebook page internally vs. outsourcing it to another company
  • The MAJOR advantage to implementing Facebook into your marketing strategy now (and what you’ll miss out on if you put it off)
  • A Facebook strategy course that you can take advantage of at a very special rate

Free Episode Bonus:

If you learned a lot from today’s episode, make sure you take advantage of the bonus.

There are tons of ways to use your marketing budget, but not all of them are worth your money. Stop shooting aimlessly, and go with proven results. You can start by downloading today’s bonus, Dr. Holmes’ Facebook Success Blueprint.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “Facebook is about community. It’s about engagement. That’s why it’s so valuable.” -Dr. Holmes

Resources:

  • Dr. Holmes on SYDP (EP 28)
  • Delivering Wow Podcast
  • FBMastery Course For Dentists Promotion

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

There are many reasons people get into dentistry.

Without a doubt, one of those reasons is the opportunity to make lots of money.

But in order to make lots of money, there’s a cost to pay:

  • Student loans
  • Business startup costs
  • Payroll

Let’s face it…it’s a high price to pay.

So what’s the best way to truly start building wealth?

Well, I’m SUPER excited to bring on today’s guest.

Reese Harper is the founder of DentistAdvisors.com, a financial planning services company specifically for dentists.

He is also the host of The Dentist Money Podcast, which guides you through the financial challenges specific to dentistry.

Reese will shed some light on the greatest misconceptions about wealth, along with some valuable tips to start building your financial portfolio.

If you find Reese’s financial advice useful, then don’t miss out on the bonus. It’s a FREE one-hour consultation with Reese. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • Why you should strongly consider hiring a financial planner
  • A key component to understanding wealth (the majority tend to overlook this critical factor)
  • The first step in financial planning
  • What a Total Term is (this is how wealth should really be measured)
  • The biggest misconceptions about what financial planning is (and what it is NOT)
  • Why financial planning shouldn’t begin until this particular ratio has been figured out (this will help you make sense of what’s going on)
  • Why it’s important for your financial planner to know how to accurately value your dental practice
  • The financial areas you should focus on when you’re getting out of school to prepare you to buy the right practice
  • Who you DON’T want to get financial advice from
  • How to build up your board of advisors

Free Episode Bonus:

Did you find Reese’s advice helpful?

Then don’t forget to take advantage of the bonus we’ve made available to you.

There is tons of advice on how you should manage your money. As you heard, not all advice is good advice.

So today you’re getting access to a FREE one hour call with Reese so that you can start making smarter financial decisions right away.

Click here to access that now.

Quote:

  • “As a dentist, you need advice in every area. Never think that you don’t need advice. And realize that the cost of good advice goes up over time as you need more of it.” -Reese Harper

Resources:

  • Visit Dentist Advisor’s Website
  • The Dentist Money Podcast
  • Email Reese

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

When patients visit the dentist, they are typically there to address dental hygiene.

Nonetheless, studies show that a person’s oral health may have a direct correlation with other potential health issues.

This is but a small part of what today’s guest has discovered (and is heavily advocating for).

Dr. Tom Larkin’s accomplishments go beyond the walls of a dental office.

Grasping on to mentors from the moment he began his journey in dentistry, his knowledge and influence has multiplied and spans across several facets within the dental world.

A true renaissance man in dentistry, Dr. Larkin is the clinical director for Ideal Practices. He is also the founder of OralWellnessCenter.org, which is doing some incredibly fascinating things as far as linking oral systemic health with dentistry. He is also an instructor at Louisville’s School of Dentistry.

If you find the content of today’s show valuable, make sure you download a copy of the bonus. It’s Dr. Tom Larkin’s Health Questionnaire. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • How Dr. Larkin balanced the clinical duties of being a medical doctor while being a new business owner during the first six months
  • The number one thing Dr. Larkin did to get “lucky” (and start making a lot of money from the start)
  • The three keys to financial management
  • A skill set that has served Dr. Larkin immensely well in dentistry and consulting
  • The number one problem that Dr. Larkin had when he opened a practice
  • What you never, EVER want to assume when you’re first getting out of dental school
  • Some issues that occur after the acquisition of a new practice that students are not ready for
  • An interesting characteristic about dental practices that typically go up for sale (ignoring this can be a very costly mistake)
  • The two models in dentistry (one of these is the model of the future and has a significant fee-for-service component to it)
  • The impact of the correlation between the location you choose to open your practice and the cost of living in that area

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to enjoy the bonus I’ve prepared for you.

Just about every dental practice out there focuses solely on dental hygiene. What few people know is the direct correlation between oral health and overall health.

As a bonus for today, Dr. Larkin is giving away a copy of his Health Questionnaire that helps educate patients on other potential risks related to their oral health.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “There are people that are looking for a dentist that does not exist yet.” – Dr. Tom Larkin

Resources:

  • Email Dr. Tom
  • Visit Dr. Tom Larkin’s Website
  • Visit Complete Health Dentistry’s Website
  • The Startup Practice Blueprint
  • Jayme Amos Podcast

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Owning a dental practice means you wear many hats (especially when you’re first getting started). As the owner, these are just some of the roles you play:

  • Dentist
  • Personnel Manager
  • Marketing Director

As you fill your dentist chair and get busier, it’s natural to take shortcuts when it comes to certain areas of your business.

But the one thing you always want to make a priority is filling that dental chair.

That’s why today’s guest strongly believes that you should never take shortcuts when it comes to your marketing.

And he has the business portfolio to back it up.

Before becoming a dental practice owner, he owned multiple other businesses, which he bought, built to great heights, and sold.

This gives him a unique perspective that I’m excited for you to hear about today.

Jerry Jones is the owner of Jerry Jones Direct, a company that markets and helps dental practices attract and retain patients. He also owns Wellness Springs Dental, a national franchise of dental practices that is helping people all over the country get started.

If you get value out of today’s show, you’ll want to make sure you check out the bonus. It’s a book called 24 Mistakes To Not Make When Owning A Dental Practice. Get that here. Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The most common misconception that new practice owners have
  • How marketing has evolved over the years (and how past stigmas are hurting current practice owners)
  • The average cost to attract a new patient across any media
  • A recommendation to all young dentists that are looking to start their practices or a practice owner who is looking to open an office in a new location
  • Expert advice on how to make the most of your marketing budget
  • A warning you shouldn’t ignore when shopping for a company to build your website (there’s a good chance you’ll lose a lot of money if you ignore this)
  • A powerful way to leverage local press to get free exposure (and become the expert in your area)
  • An ad campaign that was so successful that it caused a scheduling jam
  • What limiting copy is (and why it can be helpful to have in your ads)

Free Episode Bonus:

It’s great to get a different perspective from someone who has owned businesses outside of the dental industry. If you found today’s episode valuable, then you’re sure to get even more out of today’s bonus.

As Jerry mentioned, there are some things you shouldn’t take shortcuts on when it comes to your business, and marketing is one of them. Jerry provides more of his marketing insight, and more, in today’s bonus.

It’s a book called 24 Mistakes To Not Make When Owning a Dental Practice.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “Don’t underestimate what it’s gonna take to fill a practice with new patients.” – Jerry Jones
  • “I’m not a fan of insurance, but I understand it. It is a tool. It can either slice you and bleed you to death, or build an incredible practice.” – Jerry Jones
  • “Diversity of patient base and diversity of patient attractive mechanisms leads to stability. The more diverse your patient base is, the stronger your practice is going to be.” – Jerry Jones
  • “You should not shortcut certain things in business. Marketing is one of those things.” – Jerry Jones

Resources:

  • Jerry Jones Direct Website
  • Wellness Springs Dental Website

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

I felt inspired to do this episode after a trip to Disney World with my family.

It was the end of tax season, and probably the most appropriate time for us to disconnect from the business and have fun as a family.

We were there for 7 days and the experience is phenomenal.

Here’s the thing about Disney:

It gives a complete experience from start to finish, for anyone who’s been there. It leaves memories and stories for families to tell for years to come.

How can this translate to your dental practice?

I shared my entire experience in this episode and how we can use this to grow our practice and give your patients the best experience they can have so that they will look forward to visiting you every single time.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • What’s unique about the Disney experience (and why people are willing to spend tons of dollars for it)
  • What Disney does extraordinarily well (and how it compares to our dentist practice)
  • How Disney builds up the experience even before you get to the park (this is priceless when applied to your practice’s customer experience)
  • Preparing a customer to get the best experience at the park
  • Taking away the stress from the customer
  • How employees play a huge role in your business

Quotes:

  • “Your staff can make your ship sell or sink.” – Jonathan VanHorn
  • “The key is to hire employees that exhibit the behaviors that best align to your company’s values.” – Jonathan VanHorn
  • “Think about the things that are adding stress, think about the things that you can add value to, think about the things you can do to help your patients come in to see you, and have a good experience.”- Jonathan VanHorn
  • “If Disney – at that massive scale – can figure it out, at small scale, we can figure it out for our dental practices.”- Jonathan VanHorn

Resources:

  • Check out this related episode: How To Build A Dental Practice Culture That Creates Patients For A Lifetime with Dr. David Moffet

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Decisions are part of of every business...

And with every decision made brings an outcome.

The best way to get a desired outcome is being enabled to makean informed decision.

This is where having the right processes come into place.

In today’s episode, we are going to talk about thebest accounting software for your dental practice.

This episode is a self hosted episode where I share with you mythoughts on the current accounting software available for a dentalpractice and why you need it to run your business successfully.

If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy the bonus following. It’smy personal Chart of Accounts Template.

Get that here.Here are a few things you’lldiscover intoday’s episode:

  • The definition of accounting (and why you need a goodaccountingsystem for your business)
  • How dental practices did their accounting 10 years ago
  • The new and improved way you can start recordingyourtransactions (so that you save tons of time and have a systeminplace)
  • Desktop accounting software vs Cloud accounting systems
  • Why you should consider a cloud accounting system (and whyIstrongly recommend this)

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to enjoythebonus I’ve prepared for you.

Today’s bonus is our internal chart of accounts that we usefordental practices. We adjust this according to each practicethatcomes on, to be able to mold it to what each practice needs.Butthis is what we start off with with all our accountingclients.

A chart of accounts is the starting point that you can usetoimport into your software. It is done in excel format and youcanjust import into your software easily.

Clickhere to access thatnow.

Quotes:

  • Accounting is simply to have a process of recording economicstohelp you make informed decisions. – Jonathan VanHorn

Resources:

  • Xero software
  • Quickbooksonline

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give theshow anhonest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, andalsohelps spread the word to other podcast listeners sinceiTunespromotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Dental school will teach you how everything there is to know about oral hygiene:

  • Proper care of teeth
  • Correctly use of dental instruments
  • How to administer treatments

But it won’t teach you how to run a business:

  • How to manage people (both patients and employees)
  • How to manage debt
  • How to make a business profitable

Today’s guest, Dr. David Rice, realizes this, and has created a community that teaches members what you don’t learn in dental school.

In this show, he shares some amazing insight on little-known tips that are sure to propel your business and speed up the road to prosperity.

Dr. Rice is the practice owner of East Amherst Dental Center in New York, and founder and creator of Ignite DDS, an education platform that prepares you for true success.

If you like If you want more great tips from Dr. David Rice, then you’ll want to download today’s bonus. It’s Dr. Rice’s Crush Success Guide. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • What you must know in order to become a leader (this will help you develop great systems and stay on course)
  • Why hiring someone with several years of experience shouldn’t be a priority (and what you should be looking for instead)
  • A reason to always carry business cards (it isn’t just to draw new patients)
  • An amazing tip to recruit the best talent (from places you hadn’t thought of before)
  • A major obstacle for young professionals (that can be discouraging and maybe even crush hopes of owning a practice)
  • A valuable thing to have if you’re moving to a new place
  • The number one thing to do if you’re a young dentist looking to build your team
  • Something to keep in mind if you’re intimidated by the idea of reaching out to people who are more successful than you are (who can offer valuable advice and connect you with other great people)
  • What Doctoritis is (and how it can rob you of living the American Dream)

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to enjoy the bonus we have for you.

As you heard, being successful in this business isn’t about how good of a dentist you are.

Yes, it’s important, but how you manage people matters even more.

As a bonus for today, you can download a free copy of Dr. Rice’s The Crush Success Guide, where you’ll learn more great tips on how to make it in this business.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

“You don’t build a business, you build people. And then those people build your business for you.” -Dr. David Rice

Resources:

  • Email Dr. David Rice
  • Ignite DDS Website
  • The Ambitious Dentist Mastermind

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

As a dental practice owner, there are so many things you can be doing to grow your business…yet so little time.

One of the beautiful things about technology is that you can put it to use even when you’re not working (or working on something else).

Just ask today’s guest, Dr. Shawn Van De Vyver.

Dr. Van De Vyver has mastered the art of automation, so that he can stay top of mind with new and existing patients (and provide them with personalized experiences that keeps them coming back).

Dr. Van De Vyver is the owner of Great Lakes Dentistry and creator of practiceinapod.com, a tool that helps dentists find the best learning resources to build their business.

If you want to get more positive reviews for your business, you’ll like the bonus following. It’s The Super Awesome 5-Star Review Getting Letter. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The types of patients you DON’T want and should gladly let go (so that you can focus on the patients you DO want)
  • The most successful way to transition patients from one location to another
  • A tech tool that will give you better long-term results than mailers
  • How to personalize new patient experiences
  • A time-efficient way to train new employees (so that you can spend more time on money-making tasks)
  • How marketing your practice is like dating
  • How to stay in touch with existing patients (with little effort)
  • A way to increase positive online reviews (to remain relevant and attract new patients who use reviews to make decisions)
  • How to quickly get a review website up
  • An automation tool that saves staff time and reduces patient no-shows

Free Episode Bonus:

Many people will check reviews before they decide to step through your doors. Reviews are a reflection of the work you’re doing. They are feedback for your business (wanted or unwanted).

If you want to get more positive reviews for your business so that you attract more online traffic, today’s bonus will help you with that.

The tough reality is that people are quick to tell the world about a negative experience, while most of those with a positive one aren’t as compelled to post a review.

With Dr. Van De Vyver’s Super Awesome 5-Star Review Getting Letter, you have an opportunity to change that. You can ask your customers for their feedback directly through email. If their experience wasn’t great, you have a chance to make it right; and if it was, you can encourage them to share it online.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “Automation allows you to do a whole lot more with a whole lot less.” – Dr. Van De Vyver

Resources:

  • Email Dr. Van De Vyver
  • Great Lakes Dentistry
  • Dental Podcasts Website
  • LeadPages

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

It can take months, if not years, for someone to decide that they’re finally ready to own a practice.

Today’s guest will tell you that there’s no such thing as truly being “ready.”

As soon as he graduated from dental school, he was off to the races.

Sure, it takes a certain work ethic and skill set to run a successful practice, but waiting around can be costly.

Dr. Hunter Smith is a multiple practice owner, and a contributor on DentalTown, where he posts some of the best numbers-related content available.

If you are inspired to own a practice after today’s show, you’ll enjoy the bonus following. It’s Three Steps To Get Started On Finding A Practice To Buy. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • What to look for to see if a practice is a good match for you to purchase
  • The time when buying a practice with the intention to grow doesn’t make sense
  • The number one evaluating factor when determining a good startup location
  • Where to start if you’re looking to buy a dental practice
  • A problem you want to avoid as a multiple practice owner
  • The factor that matters more than the dentist-to-population ratio
  • The number one problem that keeps practices from growing
  • Scheduling mistakes to avoid

Free Episode Bonus:

If you were inspired to own a practice (or start acquiring more practices), then you’re going to enjoy the bonus I’ve prepared for you.

You don’t have to have it all figured out before you go out and buy a practice, but it helps to know how you can get off to a great start.

As today’s bonus, you can download Three Steps To Get Started On Finding A Practice To Buy.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “You don’t know what you don’t know until you get in there and do it.” -Dr. Smith
  • “I learned more through owning five practices in one year than what I would’ve learned owning one practice for five years.” -Dr. Smith

Resources:

  • Email Dr. Smith

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Most people will tell you that if you want to grow your dental practice, you need to get more patients.

This might make sense at first.

But while getting more patients is part of it, it shouldn’t be the priority.

What good is it for you to gain more patients consistently if they’re not coming back to see you on their next visit?

Dentists who don’t focus on returning patients (and the systems required to get them to come back) are leaving money on the table.

In this show, you’ll learn the best (and proven) strategies to grow your business (and increase your revenue).

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The definition of growth (when it comes to a dental practice)
  • How mindset plays a vital role in growing your business
  • What a limiting belief is (and why it stunts growth)
  • The typical growth cycle of a dental practice
  • The best changes you can make to increase your revenue
  • The mistake dentists makes when trying to grow their business
  • How self-awareness plays a role in all of this
  • How to come up with a game plan to increase your revenue

Quotes:

  • “Involve your team. As a business owner, you can only do so much on your own.” -Jonathan
  • “Be aware, you’re gonna have to depend on other people to do some of these things for you, so make sure you have the right people, and that they’re doing what is necessary to help you grow.” – Jonathan

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Dental equipment is constantly evolving, and your phone constantly rings with salespeople trying to get you to buy the latest technology.

You don’t need all the latest bells and whistles to run a profitable business.

But what you do need in today’s digital age is a marketing plan that reflects the latest trends.

If you want for your business to be around in the next twenty years, you can no longer rely strictly on referrals.

Today’s guest, Jake Puhl, understands the power of the internet. It can be the difference between a sustainable (and profitable) business, and one struggling to keep their head above water.

His marketing tactics have helped dentists grow from zero to $5 million dollars in revenue (or in one dentist’s case, from $1.2 million to $8 million).

Jake is the co-founder of Firegang Digital Marketing, a SEO and Google analytics expert, and an Amazon best-selling author.

If you want to learn more about effectively marketing your business online, this bonus is a great place to start. It’s a free copy of How To Get Dental Clients With The Power Of The Web. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The biggest mistakes dentists make with their marketing
  • A traditional method of growing a dental practice that will no longer hold a practice up (and a modern marketing strategy you need to stay in the game)
  • The key to a reputation marketing program that generates great reviews
  • Why being on top of your numbers and processes is important (and how your marketing dollars will go to waste if you don’t pay attention to them)
  • Why getting new clients shouldn’t be your only priority
  • The main metric you need to look at when working with any marketing company
  • The biggest differentiators that will give online traffic a compelling reason to choose your practice
  • How to “buy low” when acquiring a practice
  • What a retargeting ad is (and why it’s so powerful)
  • The key factor for online traffic analytics that you should zero in on (that many marketing companies don’t look at)
  • What a longtail keyword is (and how this impacts your online visibility)
  • Recent changes to Google ads (and what that means for your business)
  • Best practices to run good ads (that Google will reward you for)
  • A covert way to scan your competition in an area you’re looking to start or acquire a practice

Free Episode Bonus:

If you got a lot out of today’s episode, and want to learn more, this bonus is perfect for you.

There are tons of marketing companies fighting for your business, but not many that know dentistry like Firegang does.

Today you’re getting a free copy of Jake’s latest book – How To Get New Dental Clients – which teaches you how to use the web to make your business more profitable.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “When it comes to marketing a practice it’s really an execution game.” -Jake Puhl
  • “If you wanna be around in twenty years, knowing and understanding your numbers is absolutely paramount.” – Jonathan VanHorn

Resources:

  • Jake on Twitter
  • Email Jake
  • Firegang Online

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Having a successful dental practice comes down to one thing:

Keeping your dental chair filled.

Keep that chair filled week after week, year after year, and you’ll be profitable and have the opportunity to scale.

An important key to having steady clientele is marketing.

But the problem with many marketing strategies is that they are generic.

What works for a neighborhood restaurant may not work for a dentist.

That’s why you need someone who understands the dental world well enough to know how to measure the metrics that will give you the best results.

In this show, Mark Dilatush shares some little-known insight that can save you from throwing away marketing dollars that won’t work.

Mark is partner and president of New Patients Inc, a full service marketing firm that specializes in dentistry.

If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy the bonus following. It’s a copy of New Patients Inc’s latest book, Unlimited New Patients. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The two marketing segments that determine if a new patient comes to see you because they want to save money (or because they value your services)
  • The number of appointments needed to go full time when you’re first getting started
  • The only thing you should base a startup budget on
  • Why some startups take (painfully) forever to get going
  • The reason why banks are quick to lend money to startup practices (despite the risk of it failing)
  • The hidden truth about the marketing budget for a startup (and a valuable piece of advice to make sure you fill the seats needed for the practice to survive)
  • How to mitigate the high cost of a startup
  • A smart way to partner with local businesses to grow your client base faster
  • The reason why hiring a marketing company is often ineffective
  • The risk of sending the same message to your entire marketing sphere

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to enjoy the bonus I’ve prepared for you.

There are tons of marketing companies looking to get a piece of your pocketbook, but most of them don’t know the dental industry like Mark does.

For that reason, today’s bonus will be valuable as you try to make the most of your marketing efforts.

It’s a copy of New Patient Inc’s latest book, Unlimited New Patients (a $160 value).

Click here to access that now

Quotes:

  • “Anything you sell is based on the benefits, not the features.”
  • “Hoping is not a marketing strategy.”

Resources:

  • Email Mark
  • New Patients Inc Website

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

When you open your own practice, there are things you must commit to:

  • Long hours
  • Hard work
  • Sacrifice

Sadly, one of the biggest regrets dentists have is putting so much into the business that they don’t enjoy life outside of the office.

They go into the business thinking they’ll be able to enjoy life when they retire.

But it doesn’t have to be that way.

There are many ways to create passive income streams (and make yourself replaceable so that you can enjoy that extra cash flow).

Dr. David Phelps specializes in helping dentists create a long term vision business (and their personal life). He then recommends ways to accumulate wealth through various sources.

He is also a former practice owner, and creator of Freedom Founders, a place where people learn how to manage profitability.

If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy the bonus following. It’s Dr. Phelps’ Retirement Calculator that will show you the gap between where you are today and your goals. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The biggest regret dentists have after running a practice for several years (that would have allowed them to have more freedom sooner)
  • The difference between a technical provider and a business owner
  • The reason so many associateships fail
  • A key decision that revived a practice that was close to going out of business
  • One of the key parts of a business that most dentists don’t value
  • The type of customers that many dentists overlook
  • How becoming a better speaker can grow your business
  • What to look for when you’re finding a place to work fresh out of dentist school
  • The difference between wealth and money
  • A word of caution about financial advisors

Free Episode Bonus:

If you found today’s episode helpful, then you’re going to enjoy the bonus.

Don’t make the mistake of getting too tied up in your business for you to enjoy life.

Today you’re getting access to Dr. Phelps Retirement Calculator so that you can calculate the gap between where you are today and where you want to be on the freedom scale.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “Build a practice that you can be replaceable when or if you need to be.” -Dr. Phelps
  • “Earn while you learn.” -Dr. Phelps
  • “The best investment for anybody is to invest in themselves first.” -Dr. Phelps

Resources:

  • Freedom Founders Website
  • Email Dr. Phelps
  • Good To Great Book
  • The E-myth Book

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Every day I talk to consultants and dentists who are very good at what they do.

And every day I realize more and more that there are many out there, like yourself, who can get tremendous value out of these ideas.

I share many of these great ideas on this podcast, but I know that some of you are wanting more.

And that’s why we are creating the Ambitious Dentist Mastermind.

Masterminds aren’t new. In fact, they’ve been around for centuries.

Benjamin Franklin was a part of a mastermind that met every Friday night to debate politics, morals, philosophy, business goals, and anything you can think of that would help them take their life (and their business) to the next level.

So if someone like Franklin valued the opportunity to be in a mastermind, then that goes to show the impact it can have.

In the Ambitious Dentist Mastermind, we’ll be applying some of the same principals that have proven to help people achieve powerful results.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The definition of a mastermind
  • The two questions asked in Benjamin Franklin’s mastermind (that helped him become one of the most intelligent and accomplished person in history)
  • The singular focus of the Ambitious Dentist Mastermind
  • The two major problems with seeking feedback online
  • The problem with having a great idea but no one to share it with
  • The four goals of the Ambitious Dentist Mastermind
  • Answers to the most Frequently Asked Questions about the Ambitious Dentist Mastermind

Ambitious Dentist Mastermind:

If you’ve gotten a ton of value from this podcast and our guests, then I KNOW you’re going to get a lot out of this mastermind.

We only have six spots open, so don’t wait and risk losing out.

Apply now here.

Quotes:

“Masterminds are a way for people to learn from other people sitting in similar positions as themselves.” – John VanHorn

Resources:

Apply for the Ambitious Dentist Mastermind

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give the show an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

When you’re starting your dental practice, there are some key things you need to look at:

  • Finding a good location
  • Knowing what equipment to buy
  • Hiring the right people

But so many dentists tend to overlook a powerful aspect of the business that sets the framework for years of success:

The culture.

When you build a culture that customers (both external and internal) are excited to be a part of, you then have a story to tell.

Having a story allows you to create experiences.

And experiences are what people love to talk (and hear) about. Both online and offline.

Dr. Anissa Homes is a master of creating experiences.

You may have heard some of her experiences on her podcast, Delivering Wow.

Anissa is the founder of Jamaica Cosmetic Dental Services, was voted one of the Top 25 Women in Dentistry, and as you’ll find out, a Facebook wizard.

If you’re looking improve your Facebook presence to get more customers walking through your doors, you’ll enjoy the today's bonus. It’s a Facebook Targeting Guide that shows you how Anissa’s been able to get a 1500% ROI through her Facebook marketing. Get that here. Here are a few things you'll discover in today's episode: * Why giving good service isn’t enough on its own to run a successful business (and what you can do to have an amazing dental practice) * The importance of having a vision (for yourself and for your team) * How to promote your culture and core values within your practice * Tips for creating systems to train new employees more effectively (and have consistency) * How cross-training can prove to be valuable (especially when you’re short-handed) * Places where you can recruit talent (where you normally wouldn’t think to look) * The difference between building your culture and building your brand * The best way to build a brand * How to get testimonials that make others eager to come see you * How to generate 1500% ROI using Facebook for your dental practice * What you should promote (before you start promoting offers)

Free Episode Bonus:

If you were as impressed as I was with the amazing Facebook ROI that Anissa has experienced with her practice, then you’re going to get a lot out of this bonus.

Anissa has offered the Ambitious Dentist community her Facebook Targeting Guide. In this guide, she shows what she’s done to get massive results on Facebook, including specific wording, strategies, and steps.

Click here to access that now.

Quotes:

  • “Culture is the story that you want to tell. Brand is what people say about you when you’re not around.” -Anissa

Resources:

  • Delivering Wow - Dr. Homes’ Website
  • Jamaica Smiles - Dr. Homes’ Practice
  • Email Anissa
  • Delivering Wow Dental Podcast

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give me an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

Owning a business can be one of the most rewarding experiences in life.

But along the journey come the not-so-fun moments: the failures.

It’s easy to have a meltdown when the going gets tough. But those who push through the challenges reap the greatest rewards.

That’s why Dr. Mark Costes’ story is so inspiring.

It’s hard enough to bounce back from a failure or two. Now imagine bouncing back from several (twenty-one to be exact).

That’s the number of dental schools Dr. Costes applied to (and was rejected by) before finally getting accepted.

But that’s all he needed to become one of the most respected icons in our industry.

He is now an international speaker and best-selling author, founder of the Dental Success Summit, and host of two amazing podcasts (Six Figure Side Gig and Dentalpreneur).

So whether you’re going through some challenges, or looking to level up, you’ll appreciate the valuable lessons Dr. Costes shares with us on this episode.

If you were inspired by Dr. Costes’ journey, you’ll love today’s bonus. It’s a copy of his international best-selling book Pillars of Dental Success, along with his signature keynote video on Cracking the Top 1%. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The 3 ways to know if you’re ready to run your own dental practice (and why being able to understand numbers isn’t as crucial as most dentists think)
  • What to look for in a demographics report to find the best location to open a practice (and two mistakes that many overlook)
  • The techniques used to take a practice from $240,000 to $1 million in a year and a half (on more than one occasion)
  • The mindset behind breaking old habits that limit you (and replacing them with habits that will help you grow and increase your profit)
  • How the 80/20 rule applies to your practice (to get you the results you want)
  • What the Alien Abduction Manual is (and why it’s so important in systemizing your business)
  • The different ways that you can improve your practice without spending a ton of money
  • What to do if you’re fresh out of dental school to start preparing yourself to open your own practice (and gain the edge over your competition)
  • How failure and perseverance is an essential (and challenging) part of the journey
  • The difference between a Healer and an Entrepreneur
  • A unique view on wealth (which motivated Dr. Costes’ to open multiple practices despite being criticized by his mentor)

Free Episode Bonus:

I’m super grateful that Dr. Costes was willing to provide our Ambitious Dentist community with two truly remarkable resources.

As a bonus for today, you can download a free copy of his international best-selling book Pillars of Dental Success, along with his signature keynote video Cracking the Top 1%.

Click here to access that now

Quote:

  • “The wealthier you become, the more people you can help.” – Dr. Costes

Resources:

  • Dentalpreneur Podcast
  • Six Figure Side Gig Podcast
  • Dental Success Summit
  • Email Dr. Costes

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give me an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

It’s one thing to know how to use a sickle probe. But knowing how to make your practice profitable is another.

And to be profitable year after year, you’ll need to adapt to certain changes:

  • Modern dental equipment
  • New technology
  • Relevant marketing strategies

But there’s one part that doesn’t change:

People.

To run a stellar dental practice, you need a good staff.

And if you’re wondering what it takes to have a good staff, there’s no better person to turn to than Sandy Pardue.

Sandy is the senior consultant at Classic Practice Resources, a key contributor to DentalTown, and director of the Spice Up Your Practice training events.

If you’re looking to grow your staff soon, you’ll appreciate the bonus. It’s Sandy’s employment application that will help you identify the best fit for the role.

Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The mistake that will get potential clients going to see other dentists instead of coming to see you (and how to avoid it)
  • What job title to avoid to prevent confusion in responsibilities (especially with larger age gaps)
  • The four parts you need to fill in your front office (and what personality traits to look for when hiring for them)
  • A key characteristic to pay attention to during interviews (that may cause problems if overlooked)
  • The difference between an interview and an outerview
  • What to do before, during, and after an interview to find the best candidates for the job (and maybe even get new clients out of it)
  • The staffing ratio formula to make sure your business runs smoothly
  • Why block scheduling can be a costly mistake
  • How The Hawthorne Effect can be applied to your practice to make it more efficient
  • Red flags when buying a practice (and the first thing you’ll want to do as a new owner)
  • How to tell when someone’s not doing their job
  • The key metrics to maintain a high performing office

Free Episode Bonus:

If you want to improve the quality of your hires, this bonus will come in hand.

Sandy has provided an employment application to help you find the qualities you’re looking for, rather than relying on a resume that only shows you what they want you to see.

Click here to access that now.

Quote:

“Nothing in your practice is more important than time.” – Sandy Pardue
Resources:

Classic Practice Resources Website
Contact Sandy Pardue via Email

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this show wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give me an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve the show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

You obviously chose to go into dentistry for a reason…

And for a lot of aspiring dentists it’s because the field is still growing.

Smart decision.

Unfortunately, that makes plenty of people out in the wild look to exploit new (and existing) dentists as a chance to siphon hundreds of thousands of dollars and more.

Jason Patrick Wood is a partner in the Law Firm of Wood & Delgado and he see’s it happen everyday.

Lucky for us, he’s here to tell you exactly what to look for when acquiring a business or looking to partner with anyone.

Click here to get today’s episode bonus: “Buyer’s Checklist for Acquiring a Practice” – the questions you need to consider and have answered before acquiring a dental practice.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • The aspects of most dentists that get preyed upon and taken advantage of by others (and why this is a major issue in the industry)
  • How to make sure you’re always getting the best deal possible (even with people you’ve done business with for years)
  • Why running a dual brokerage is usually an illegal operation (and how to protect your dental business and partners)
  • What separates the people who know their stuff from the pretenders (and what to do in order to spot both of these in the wild)
  • The right way to interview anyone you’re bringing into your business – like banks, employees, and partners (and the questions you can ask to find red flags)
  • How one little line in a contract could cause you to lose $100,000 when you got to sell your practice
  • The critical way to think when acquiring a practice or a startup (and the pros and cons of both situations)
  • Why you should never trust a demographics report from this specific kind of professional
  • The biggest mistake being made when acquiring an existing dental practice (and what numbers to focus on to avoid this mistake)
  • How to guarantee you and your families financial well being through retirement
  • The type of mindset that plagues some dentists and ruins the dental industry
  • Why females are highly targeted in the dental industry when it comes to dental practice ownership (and why it’s so important that women become dental practice owners)
  • Why dentistry is the most “bankable” industry (and why this is critical to your livelihood)
  • The after-hours and off-site conversations happening by Dental Professors with aspiring students (and what happened when the school found out)
  • How to approach acquiring a dental practice (even if you’re new and fresh out of school)

Free Episode Bonus:

If today’s episode struck a chord with you, then don’t miss out on today’s bonus kindly provided by Jason and his team.

It includes the questions you need to ask when acquiring a practice, and there were a few on there I hadn’t even considered.

Click here to access that now.

After you check it out, submit it back to Jason for a FREE 15 minute consultation with him.

Quotes:

  • “It’s impossible to serve two masters.”- Jason Wood
  • “Just be careful. Always have your guard up.”- Jason Wood
  • “Partnerships should be about shared sacrifice, shared reward, equal playing field for all.” – Jason Wood

Resources:

  • Dentistry At A Crossroads Report from the ADA
  • Find Jason Here

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give me an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve that show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.

View Details

In the dental business you have the good:

  • Working with great patients
  • Having a thriving business
  • Building a team of incredible people

And, just like in life, you have the “not-so-good”:

  • Patients that push you to the edge
  • Down months where you aren’t certain where the money is going to come from
  • Having to let go of people who aren’t the right fit in your practice

No one knows this better – and has learned from it – than Dr. Joshua Austin.

You might know Dr. Austin from his hit podcast, AcciDental Geniuses.

Dr. Austin is a speaker for reputation management, hosts of Austin Dental Seminars, and a private practice owner.

If you like today’s show, you’ll enjoy the bonus following. It’s the top 5 podcasts for young and aspiring dental practice owners. Get that here.

Here are a few things you’ll discover in today’s episode:

  • How to tell if you’re ready to own a dental practice (and a resource to help you make the decision)
  • Why you might not want to trust even the most reputable sales person in the dental field
  • What to do if you’re doing the hygiene in your business and want to find someone to replace you (to free up your time and scale your business)
  • How to tell if one of your employees is writing fake prescriptions in your name
  • The biggest battle of running a practice (this makes everything else seem easy)
  • The bright side to letting go of people in your practice (and a movie to watch to get you ready)
  • What drove the biggest amount of traffic to Dr. Austin’s business (and why it wasn’t enough at the end of the day)
  • The surprisingly effective form of marketing most dentists avoid (or use incorrectly)
  • A modern form of reputation management that can steamroll into major success in your dental practice
  • What to do if you want your customers to spread your dental practice’s name across the town (and beat your competitors to the punch)

Free Episode Bonus:

If you loved today’s episode, then you’re going to enjoy the bonus I’ve prepared for you.

There are tons of business and dental podcasts out in the wild, so today you’re getting access to the top 5 dental podcasts for young dentists or existing dentists looking for high-quality shows.

Click here to access that now.

Quote:

  • “Knowing the technical aspect of dentistry does not make you necessarily ready to own a business.” – Dr. Johnson

Resources:

  • Dr. Austin’s Podcast: AcciDental Geniuses
  • Dr. Austin’s Website
  • Contact Dr. Austin via Email
  • E-Myth (affiliate link)
  • Interview on reviews with Dr. Leonard Tao
  • Austin Dental Seminars

Support The Show:

Without you, Ambitious Dentists, this should wouldn’t exist.

If you enjoyed today’s episode, please go here to give me an honest rating and review in iTunes.

This allows me to evolve that show as it goes on, and also helps spread the word to other podcast listeners since iTunes promotes shows with active engagement.