TLP Podcast For Dentists

In this episode, Matt shows you how to cut through the dental jargon and focus on what patients really care about. Stop talking about teeth and start connecting with the human in front of you... their wants, desires, and problems. When you do, both your practice and your fulfillment will skyrocket. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Stop complaining about your team and start teaching them.  Steve shares solid lessons to help you create a team that makes your life easier, not harder. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

New owner. New mindset. Zero panic. In this candid conversation, Derek sits down with Dr. Raheel Hayter to unpack how a 20-year-old’s discovery of FIRE (Financial Independence, Retire Early) shaped his entire path through dental school, associateship, and a swift, strategic leap into ownership. Raheel shares how he maximized clinical reps in school (hello molar endo and wisdom teeth), evaluated practices with a clear freedom-first lens, and landed a rare small-town, low-competition office outside Dallas. You’ll hear the exact factors he prioritized (fixed costs, saturation, collections), why he chose coaching with TLP to compress his timeline, and how he handled week one with a “change nothing, learn everything” approach—using curiosity and “strong opinions, weakly held” to identify true root problems (documentation, over-spending on supplies, collections discipline) without rattling the team or patients. Whether you’re a student, associate, or on the brink of ownership, this episode is a blueprint for moving fast and smart. What you’ll learn: How a FIRE mindset clarifies clinical, career, and ownership decisions The simple filter Raheel used to evaluate practices (competition, fixed costs, collections) Why saying “no” a lot makes it easy to pounce on the right deal A calm, high-trust playbook for your first weeks as an owner (“change nothing, ask why”) Where passive leadership hides in the numbers (supplies %, lab %, collections rate) and how to spot it Highlights: Discovering FIRE and choosing dentistry with the end in mind Maximizing clinical exposure in school (be in clinic 8–5; study after) From associate to owner: doing the math, then committing Due diligence in saturated markets and why small-town sites can win big Week-one leadership: reassure the team, observe, document, then prioritize Back-office fixes that move the needle: documentation, insurance, discounts, CareCredit/process cleanup Reach out to Raheel at: raheel14haider@gmail.com Reach out to Derek at: derek@thelifestylepractice.com Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this episode, we explore why retaining patients is just as important as attracting new ones. Matt shares a real-world case where a patient nearly slipped out the “back door” mid-treatment, highlighting the risks to both patient care and the practice. You’ll learn simple, repeatable steps to protect your work, improve continuity of care, and keep patients engaged through treatment completion. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this episode of the Lifestyle Practice Podcast, Dr. Steve Van DeGraff shares valuable insights and strategies to help dentists achieve better work-life balance. Amidst juggling responsibilities as a dentist, business owner, and parent, Dr. Van DeGraff offers practical tips to stay present, take decisive action, seek mentorship, and prioritize effectively. Tune in to learn how to prevent work from creeping into personal life, manage stress, and improve both professional and personal well-being.   Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Buying a practice can feel like stepping onto a moving treadmill set at full speed. Most new owners scramble to fix the wrong problems, burn out their team, and miss the opportunities right in front of them. In this episode, Derek shares the five action items that separate thriving first-year owners from the ones barely keeping up. These aren’t theory — they’re hard-won lessons from his own journey and from coaching over 50 dentists through acquisitions. One of them might be the very thing you’re overlooking right now. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Speed is the secret weapon of the most successful dentists. In this episode, Matt breaks down why fast action leads to faster growth and how hesitation kills momentum. If you’re ready to stop overthinking and start executing, this one’s for you. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this episode of The Lifestyle Practice Podcast, host Dr. Steve Van De Graaff addresses the overwhelming burden of student loans for new dentists. Steve discusses strategies for managing and paying off student debt, including utilizing the new SAVE repayment plan and the benefits of investing in a highly profitable dental practice. He emphasizes the importance of financial freedom, flexibility, and building a thriving practice to overcome financial challenges. Tune in for practical advice and inspiration to transform your financial future. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Are you hesitant to step into your role as a leader - especially after acquiring a practice? In this episode, Derek shares a coaching story that will resonate with any new owner who feels unsure about holding meetings, sharing their vision, or setting expectations. You’ll hear how one doctor overcame her fear, led her first team meeting, and was surprised by the team’s enthusiastic response. Derek breaks down why your team actually wants you to lead, the most common mindset blocks holding doctors back, and the key ingredients every team is craving: clarity, vision, accountability, and recognition. Plus, practical takeaways to help you start small, lead intentionally, and elevate the energy of your entire practice—without needing to be perfect. Leadership isn’t optional. Your team is already following someone—make sure it’s you. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this flashback episode, Derek and Matt put their heads together and share their experiences with benefits and drawbacks of purchasing vs starting a practice. If you're considering ownership, this episode is a must! Also some fun conversation about exit strategy! Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

What benefits should you offer your employees? Should you be doing more or less? How do you say no? Steve talks about how to make decisions on employee benefits. Get this right to create and retain a great team. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Join Derek in this frequently passed over lesson from 5 years ago. Take time to reconsider your weekly schedule in your practice. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this powerful and personal episode, Derek welcomes Matt back to the Lifestyle Practice Podcast for a deep dive into his surreal week competing in the U.S. Open at Oakmont—his hometown course where he once caddied. Matt opens up about the emotional whirlwind of walking onto the grounds as a player, hitting the first tee shot of the championship, and rubbing shoulders with legends like Scottie Scheffler and Bryson DeChambeau. But this episode is more than just golf. Matt shares the real behind-the-scenes of managing nerves, handling media attention, staying composed under pressure, and staying true to who he is amidst the noise. He reflects on how this once-in-a-lifetime experience shaped his mindset, impacted his dental practice, and reinforced the importance of personal growth, self-image, and stepping outside of your comfort zone. Whether you're a golfer, dentist, entrepreneur, or just someone chasing a dream, this episode is a masterclass in performance, humility, and living life with intention. Tune in for heartfelt stories, real lessons, and inspiration that lasts far beyond 18 holes. This episode will help you rethink success, inspire your team, and align your practice around a shared vision of excellence. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Staff is the #1 source of stress for most dentists. Steve shares pearls you can use right away to save yourself headaches and improve your team's performance. This episode will help you rethink success, inspire your team, and align your practice around a shared vision of excellence. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com  

In this episode, Derek shares game-changing leadership insights from Bill Walsh’s legendary book, The Score Takes Care of Itself. Drawing from the iconic 49ers dynasty era, Derek explores how Walsh’s management philosophy—focusing on process over outcomes—applies directly to growing and leading a successful dental practice. You’ll hear how excellence in every role, no matter how behind-the-scenes, contributes to winning results, and why communication becomes your greatest challenge—and greatest asset—as your organization scales. This episode will help you rethink success, inspire your team, and align your practice around a shared vision of excellence. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Matt qualified for the U.S. Open. Yes, that U.S. Open. And this conversation peels back every layer of what that moment—and the journey leading to it—has meant. From the early days of picking up a club to the moment his name hit the national leaderboard, Matt shares a vulnerable, inspiring, and deeply reflective look at what it takes to chase a seemingly impossible goal while remaining a full-time dentist, business partner, father, and friend. This is about golf—but it's also about identity, mindset, purpose, and being present for the moments that matter. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

If you’ve ever felt stuck between where you are and where you really want to be, this episode gives you the mindset and examples you need to break through. Steve shares hard-won lessons and real talk on how grit, not genius, wins every time. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

In this moving episode, Dr. Derek Williams reflects on a life-changing conversation with a blind man he met on a flight—and how it reframed his understanding of adversity, gratitude, and growth. After nearly two years living on the road in an RV, Derek shares what it's been like to return to a “sticks and bricks” home, and how small shifts—like being able to buy as many protein bars as he wants—have highlighted bigger mindset changes. But the real heart of this episode is a powerful story of Steve, a man who lost his vision later in life and learned to see the world more clearly than ever before. From walking with a cane to navigating public transport alone, to processing grief over never seeing his granddaughter’s face—Steve’s story offers lessons every practice owner can take to heart. Derek connects these insights to your journey as a dentist: how adversity shapes us, why resisting discomfort holds us back, and how to stop chasing “someday” and start living fully now. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’re not where you “should” be—this one’s for you. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

As dentists, we are all different, but in some ways, we are all the same. Many of us struggle to leave work at the office, carrying stress and responsibility home, even when it's not urgent. In this episode, Matt explores how to set healthy boundaries, shift your mindset, and finally enjoy your time off without guilt. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com

Steve shares simple, high-impact habits to protect your health and energy while building a thriving dental practice. Connect with us: • Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching • Get access to TLP Academy • Suscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast • Email Derek at derek@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Matt at matt@thelifestylepractice.com • Email Steve at steve@thelifestylepractice.com