The Dentists Show | Advice for Dentists

Stepping out of dental school and into real-world dentistry can feel overwhelming. Shiny technology, leadership pressures, debt, and the weight of patient care — it's a lot to handle. In this episode of The Dentists Show, Chase and Ryan get real about what matters most for dental students and new grads. Chase shares insights from speaking to a room of over 200 dental students, answering their burning questions about affording tech, buying equipment, and stepping into leadership roles. The takeaway? Don't get caught chasing every shiny new tool. Being a step behind the bleeding edge is often smarter — and cheaper. Instead, the guys emphasize what really matters: putting in reps with bread-and-butter dentistry, investing in quality CE (even if it costs you), and surrounding yourself with strong mentors and teammates. They get into the importance of reflection, the role of personality and hobbies in interviews, and why being intentional with your growth early in your career pays off forever. Whether you're still in dental school, a fresh grad, or mentoring young dentists yourself, this episode will leave you with practical, honest advice you won't get from a textbook. LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com Episode Minute By Minute: 00:00 – Recording filters, background noise & real-life interruptions 02:30 – Chase speaks at Smiles event: 230 dental students 04:30 – Students' biggest questions: tech & equipment costs 06:00 – Why new grads shouldn't chase shiny new technology 08:00 – Being a step behind the bleeding edge (car & boat analogy) 09:30 – Focus on patient experience and team leadership first 11:00 – Put in reps: bread-and-butter dentistry is your foundation 12:30 – CE courses: why even expensive ones are worth it 15:00 – Live-patient CE and safe ways to build advanced skills 17:00 – Ryan's story: working with Chase was like a "mini residency" 19:00 – The role of mentorship (finding mentors & mentoring others) 21:00 – How they evaluate new dentists in interviews 22:30 – Why reflection and personality matter as much as skills 25:00 – Students: reach out, invite us for pizza + Q&A 27:00 – Closing laughs & reminders to like, share, and subscribe

Not every month is a record-breaker. Not every month is a disaster. Some months just… are. In this episode of The Dentists Show, Chase and Ryan talk honestly about what they call the "mid months" — those stretches where production is okay, collections are fine, but nothing feels exciting. Instead of brushing past them, they argue that mid months are where true leadership shows up. These are the moments to sharpen your tools, reset your team, and create momentum for the future. They share stories of navigating disappointing numbers, redirecting staff energy, and how reflection (even on failures) can drastically reduce repeat mistakes. They also cover why September can be a make-or-break month, the power of same-day treatment, and why frustration is often the best signal that change is coming. Add in some laughs about heat waves, new slang, and losing a patient over podcast banter, and you've got a mix of humor and hard-hitting leadership advice. Whether you're running one practice or managing multiple offices, this episode will challenge you to see mid months not as wasted time, but as opportunities to lead better and build stronger teams. LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Back together (sort of), weather talk & podcast fallout 03:00 – August recap: why it felt "mid" 05:30 – Teen slang, new words & feeling old 07:00 – What a mid month looks like in dental numbers 08:30 – Team mindset: turning $85k into $170k 09:45 – The danger of being passive about mid months 10:30 – Sharpening the ax: why reflection matters 12:00 – Slow months: chatter, bonding, and missed opportunities 13:00 – Using downtime for training and leadership growth 15:00 – How to explain profitability vs. production to your team 16:30 – Leadership test: handling average months well 18:00 – Why reflecting on failures prevents repeat mistakes 20:00 – Culture of mistakes: turning errors into opportunities 21:30 – Rallying after mid months vs. bad months 23:00 – Spring energy, fall motivation & hitting September goals 24:00 – Team giveaways, incentives & patient experiences 25:00 – Wrapping up: guests, growth, and avoiding foot-in-mouth moments  

If you've ever felt guilty about not having the "perfect" balance between work, family, and life, this episode will hit home. Chase and Ryan dig into the myth of work-life balance and why chasing it is a guaranteed way to stay frustrated. They talk about the real grind of dentistry, the constant tug-of-war between clinic life and family life, and how the idea of "balance" sets up unrealistic expectations. Instead, they introduce a different framework — thinking in seasons. Sometimes it's a season of long hours and late nights, and other times it's a season of family trips, slower schedules, or health. From letting go of shame to learning how to actually be present (yes, that means putting down your phone), this conversation is equal parts honest, funny, and practical. Chase and Ryan even share their own hacks — like muting phones at night, scheduling "rock priorities" first, and empowering their teams to take ownership so they can step back when needed. At the end of the day, they remind us: you don't need balance. You need presence, intentionality, and the freedom to embrace whatever season you're in.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Welcome back & Chase's move 02:00 – Work-life balance: the myth we all bought into 04:00 – Why balance doesn't actually exist 06:00 – The "pursuit of happiness" trap 07:00 – What dentistry really looks like after 5 PM 08:00 – Seasons vs. balance: a healthier way to think about life 09:30 – How seasons play out in dentistry, family, and career 11:00 – The danger of extremes: all work vs. all family 12:30 – What Ryan hopes his kids say at his funeral 13:30 – The key: being present where you are 15:00 – Phones, distractions, and learning to disconnect 17:00 – BBQ talk: Chase's new grill & Ryan's steak routine 18:00 – Dan Sullivan's free day concept & planning immersion days 19:00 – Letting go of control and empowering your team 21:00 – Health, growth, family: shifting focus by season 22:00 – Rocks, gravel, and sand: how to plan your year 23:00 – Family travel commitments and making memories 26:00 – Why guilt around "balance" isn't worth it 27:00 – Social media hacks to stay present 28:00 – Final thoughts: forget balance, focus on what matters most

If you've ever wondered what dentists really want to say to patients, this episode is your backstage pass. Chase and Ryan spill on the bizarre, hilarious, and downright unbelievable stories that happen in the operatory. From late arrivals to wisdom tooth meltdowns to the patient who… well… didn't make it to the bathroom — this one's a rollercoaster. This isn't clinical. This is real life in dentistry — the stuff you only talk about behind closed doors. What You'll Hear in This Episode The breakfast problem: Fruity Pebbles, football, and the power of carbs + fat 🍩🏈 Patient drama: Screaming during injections, moaning louder than an action movie, and what's really going through your dentist's head Denture reality checks: Why lower dentures will never behave like real teeth (and how Chase explains it using… missing arms 🤷‍♂️) Wisdom tooth chaos: A sedation story featuring a sobbing 19-year-old, helicopter parents, and gauze in all the wrong places The poop incident: Yes, it happened. Yes, they powered through. Yes, they still cleaned her teeth 😅 Why dentists sometimes love Mondays: A rare confession from Chase about his "favorite" day of the week Through all the laughs, Chase and Ryan keep it real about the challenges and absurdities dentists face every single day. Why You'll Love This Episode Whether you're in the dental field or just someone curious about what really happens behind the scenes, this one's part therapy, part comedy hour. You'll leave with a fresh appreciation for what dentists deal with — and maybe some hilarious new stories to share at your next cleaning. LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Kicking off with football, Fruity Pebbles, and the breakfast debate 04:30 – Sugar overload: why donuts make Ryan dizzy 07:00 – Patients who scream louder than horror movie stars 09:15 – Chase's confession: why Mondays at 5 PM are his favorite 10:45 – "Please stop tapping your tooth" — dentist frustrations 101 12:30 – Extractions explained: "We basically removed a bone from your face" 16:00 – Lower dentures, unrealistic expectations, and the missing-arm analogy 18:15 – The 20-minutes-late patient who left angry (and left a bad review) 23:00 – Sedation chaos: sobbing teens, helicopter parents, and gauze fails 27:15 – Why pediatric dentistry isn't about the kids… it's about the moms 31:00 – The unforgettable poop incident and why Chase almost quit on the spot 32:30 – Wrapping up with laughs, Buckeyes football, and listener shoutouts  

In this episode of The Dentist Show, Ryan and Chase dive into the realities of running dental practices through highs and lows. Fresh off one of their best Julys ever, they reflect on why great months can sometimes be followed by challenging ones—and what leaders can do to soften the blow. The conversation explores: Why summer months aren't always "slow season" anymore How fear of failure can be both a motivator and a trap The psychology of loss vs. gain (why patients accept treatment when framed as risk) Practical ways to keep momentum after a record-breaking month The importance of gratitude, celebrating wins, and building long-term resilience Chase and Ryan also share candid stories—from short-shorts and barrel jeans to team incentives and P&L transparency—that reveal the mix of humor, strategy, and honesty it takes to run practices at scale. If you've ever wondered how to handle the ebb and flow of business without burning out—or how to turn fear into productive energy—this episode is packed with insights you can use right away. LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com

If you've ever felt like your practice is running you instead of the other way around, this episode's going to hit home. We're diving into a real and raw conversation about the messy middle of growth—when the numbers look good on paper, but behind the scenes, the pressure is relentless. In this episode, we open up about the hard realities of scaling multiple practices, the mental toll it can take, and the key lessons we've learned about sustainable growth. From understanding what your team really needs from you as a leader, to getting honest about where your own blind spots are, we're talking about the stuff they don't teach you in dental school. We also share the role personal accountability plays in business success, how to recognize when you're in over your head, and why sometimes the smartest move is slowing down to move forward faster. If you've ever questioned whether you're doing this whole dentistry/ownership/life thing "right," you're not alone—and you'll leave this episode with permission to rethink your own path. This is an episode for dentists who want more than just a profitable practice—they want a fulfilling career and a life they actually enjoy living.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Intro and why this conversation matters for dentists right now 02:12 – The reality check moment when the growth felt overwhelming 05:28 – Why chasing numbers can put you in the wrong headspace 08:40 – Recognizing blind spots in leadership and ownership 12:15 – How to know if your team is thriving—or silently struggling 15:33 – The mental shift from "more, more, more" to "better, not bigger" 18:50 – Why slowing down can actually speed up your growth 22:17 – Final thoughts and encouragement for practice owners

Let's be honest—if you've ever built a business, you've likely felt the pull of just one more thing. Just one more late night. One more patient. One more office. In this solo episode, I'm laying it all out: what led me to the edge of burnout, what I've learned about healthy limits, and why I'm drawing a line in the sand when it comes to how I lead and live from now on. This episode isn't about whining. It's about waking up. I've been running at 100 miles an hour, trying to be everything to everyone, and convincing myself I could do it all. But even dentists who "look like they have it together" hit a wall. And when you do, it doesn't mean you failed—it means it's time to build differently. I talk about the cost of ignoring boundaries, what true partnership looks like (in marriage and business), and how to own your "average" seasons without shame. You'll also hear why I'm not afraid to change direction, even if it means disappointing a few people in the process. This one's real. This one's raw. And if you've ever felt the tension between ambition and actual life, I think it'll hit home. LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Why Ryan is doing this solo episode 01:40 – When you hit your capacity and keep going anyway 04:25 – The personal cost of saying yes too much 06:32 – Burnout isn't about being weak—it's about not resting 08:55 – How Ryan learned to redefine success in this season 11:30 – The hardest part about slowing down 13:44 – What real growth looks like after the hustle 16:05 – Boundaries, bottlenecks, and the blessing of simplicity 19:21 – Final thoughts for any dentist trying to do it all

In this episode, Chase puts Ryan in the hot seat to break down the emotional rollercoaster of launching their latest dental startup. From unpredictable days to unexpected wins, this is the raw debrief most practice owners never share out loud. Starting a new dental office is rarely what you think it's going to be. Chase takes on the role of interviewer in this week's episode, asking Ryan to reflect honestly on the chaos, confusion, and surprises of their newest startup. Ryan opens up about how disjointed the first few weeks felt—even with strong hiring and good systems in place. The hardest part? Leading through the fog. When your team is looking to you for direction and you don't yet have clarity yourself, it's a gut-check moment. They discuss team dynamics, emotional stress, communication breakdowns, and the temptation to avoid hard conversations. Ryan shares how "looking like you have it together" isn't the same as actually leading, and what it takes to find your rhythm mid-mess. If you're planning a startup or recovering from one, this conversation is both validating and eye-opening. 💡 Key Takeaways: Chase's opening question: "What surprised you most about this startup?" The emotional tension of unclear direction during the first month How a few misaligned hires can create ripple effects across the office Ryan's honest take: "I didn't show up the way I needed to" The danger of avoiding hard conversations when things feel fragile Learning how to lead when you don't have all the answers yet 👉 Want the real story behind the startup glow-up? Hit play to hear Chase and Ryan pull back the curtain on what those first 90 days really looked like. Episode Minute By Minute:  0:00 – Intro: This startup hit different 2:10 – Chase: "What did we think would happen... and what actually happened?" 4:05 – The first two weeks: chaos, burnout, and doubt 6:50 – "I wasn't the leader I wanted to be" 9:15 – When your team feels the tension, but no one says anything 12:00 – Missed expectations, no-shows, and schedule gaps 14:35 – "We built the house while living in it—and lit it on fire" 16:45 – Learning to give grace while still setting standards 19:30 – What we're changing for the next startup 22:00 – Final thoughts: You're not alone in the mess  

Quarterly numbers are in… but the real question isn't what the spreadsheets say—it's whether your practice actually grew. In this raw and real episode, Chase and Ryan unpack the wins, losses, and loops from Q2 and challenge you to stop repeating the same cycle and finally move the needle. In this no-fluff, behind-the-scenes episode, Chase and Ryan reflect on Q2's performance across their dental practices. Spoiler: it wasn't all sunshine and profit margins. From an explosive April to a painful May and a "meh" June, they break down the highs, lows, and what they've learned (and didn't fix) this quarter. The duo gets honest about the reality of dental leadership: identifying problems is easy—but solving them? That's the hard part most owners avoid. They share why many dentists are stuck in repeat loops, the sneaky comfort of chaos, and how some offices are quietly crushing goals while others struggle to grow. You'll hear insights on team culture, case acceptance training, margins, and their controversial idea to cut underperforming insurance plans. And yes, they somehow tie it all together with a custom Nike shoe contest, awkward dad jokes, and a team-wide David Goggins-inspired Q3 rally cry. 💡 Key Takeaways: Why recognizing problems isn't the same as resolving them Q2 breakdown: strong April, brutal May, flat June—and what caused it How case acceptance training is starting to pay off (and where it still needs work) The risks (and rewards) of dropping poor-paying insurance plans New Q3 theme: Action. No Excuses. How to lead your team out of the repeat loop and into performance-driven culture 👉 Ready to dive deeper? Hit play now and join us for the full conversation. Let's break the cycle and make Q3 the turning point.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com/ Episode Minute By Minute:  0:00 – Welcome & weather banter from AZ to WA 1:30 – Hayden, Idaho isn't as "free" as they thought 2:15 – Q2 recap begins: did we really grow? 4:45 – Brutal May: High payroll + low collections 6:30 – June: A recovery or just treading water? 7:45 – Rising case acceptance—why it matters 10:00 – The treatment planning course that's shifting momentum 11:45 – What "mid" hygiene numbers reveal about patient retention 13:00 – Chandler chaos vs. Cave Creek calm 14:45 – Should we drop insurances? (The real math behind it) 16:30 – Growth vs. repetition: What kind of leader are you? 19:00 – Defining a winning Q3 and the 40% case acceptance goal 23:30 – The Nike shoe challenge: competition as culture fuel 26:30 – Replacing repeating staff with growing leaders 28:00 – Dad jokes, icebreakers & book ideas (yes, seriously) 30:00 – Q3 theme: Action. No Excuses. 32:00 – Closing thoughts & CTA to reflect on your own Q2  

If you're thinking about buying your first dental practice—or already deep in the process—this episode is a must-listen. Chase and Ryan are pulling back the curtain on what really happens when you make that first purchase. Spoiler alert: it's not all clean numbers and smooth transitions. From team dynamics to misleading seller promises, they share the gritty, honest truths most brokers won't tell you. They even bring ChatGPT into the mix to compare AI advice with real-world experience—and spoiler: the guys still come out on top. You'll hear stories of team walkouts, overpromised seller support, and the wild variability that comes with every transition. Whether you're planning to buy soon or just want to hear what goes down behind the scenes, this episode is filled with candid insights and practical tips. And don't worry—there are plenty of laughs, Post Malone references, and even some boating mishaps sprinkled in along the way. What's Inside:  Numbers can lie—without context: Collections and income might look good on paper, but dig deeper. Look at doctor dependency, write-offs, and team costs. The team might not be on your side (at first): Some will love you, some will loathe you. Expect a rocky start and don't take it personally. Sellers rarely follow through on transition promises: Get everything in writing. Most docs mentally check out the moment the check clears. Morale is impossible to measure pre-sale: You won't meet the team ahead of time for a reason. Be prepared to deal with culture shifts. You'll feel like you overpaid—and that's normal: Every buyer thinks they paid too much. Every seller thinks they got too little. It's just part of the game. Create your own culture: Whether the old team stays or goes, you get to build the team that's right for your practice long-term.   👋 Thinking about buying your first practice? Don't go it alone. Shoot us a DM on Instagram [@thedentistsshow] or email Chase at chase@thedentistsshow.com with your questions. We've been there, we've made the mistakes—and we're happy to help you dodge them. 🎯 And hey—if you got any value from today's episode, do us a favor: like, subscribe, and share this with a friend who's thinking about buying their first practice. It helps more than you know.   Episode Minute By Minute:  0:00 – Welcome Back & Why We're Saying This Up Front 1:30 – Ryan's Beef with the 4th of July 3:00 – Patriotic Boat Parade Fail 4:40 – Cabin Life, Tattoos & Summer Catch-Up 7:00 – Post Malone, Face Tats & Country Vibes 9:15 – Introducing Today's Topic: What They Don't Tell You About Buying a Practice 10:20 – ChatGPT vs. Real-Life Experience: Numbers Without Context 13:00 – Reading Between the Lines of the P&L 14:40 – Ask Better Questions—Don't Rely on the Broker 16:00 – Expect Chaos: No Practice is Perfect 17:30 – Team Loyalty: The Wildcard in Any Transition 19:00 – Our Experience with Resistant Teams 21:15 – When to Let Toxic Team Members Go 23:00 – Why You Never Meet the Team Before Buying 25:00 – The Myth of the Seller Staying On 27:00 – Soft Promises & Quick Exits 29:00 – The Real "Goodwill" Transfer: Just Shake Hands 30:30 – Final Thoughts + Why We Still Do It 32:00 – DMs, Contact Info & What's Coming Next

In this raw and relatable episode of The Dentists Show, Ryan opens up about one of the most stressful sedation cases he's ever faced—a situation that pushed him to his edge as a dentist and leader. What started as a routine All-On-X procedure under IV sedation turned into a chaotic and dangerous experience when the patient became combative mid-surgery. Ryan walks us through the moment-by-moment decisions he had to make—balancing patient safety, team confidence, and the legal and emotional weight of it all. Chase jumps in with his own stories, and together they unpack the wild world of sedation dentistry, sharing lessons on teamwork, emotional resilience, and knowing when to laugh so you don't cry.  If you've ever thought, Why do I do this? — this episode is for you. 🎧 Loved this episode? If you've ever had a day where everything went sideways in the operatory, you're not alone. Share this episode with a fellow dentist who could use a laugh (or a therapy session), and don't forget to subscribe so you never miss these real, unfiltered convos from the trenches of dentistry.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  0:00 – Sweaty backs, gas station food, and Scottsdale heat 2:00 – Team outings and fine dining in surprising places 3:00 – Burnt wood decor and the irony of fire 3:40 – Ryan's no-good, very bad sedation day begins 5:00 – When a patient goes from peaceful to combative 6:20 – The mental chaos of making high-stakes calls fast 7:30 – Giving reversal meds and hoping for the best 9:00 – How flumazenil saved the day—after a quick Google 10:30 – Was she over-sedated? Or just hit fight-or-flight? 12:00 – Redheads, weed, and sedation unpredictability 13:40 – When dentistry feels like a combat sport 15:00 – Why sedation stress hits differently 16:20 – Ryan's go-to coping mantra on bad days 17:30 – The moment you walk past your family and just need a minute 18:30 – Chase's sedation fails and why weed smokers are the worst 20:00 – Rookie assistants, real-time chaos, and how to train on the fly 21:20 – PSA: Your worst day isn't your last one 22:15 – Dark dentist humor and the stress of "almost" 23:00 – Pulse ox tricks and unexpected saves 24:30 – What stress actually means for your growth 25:00 – Learning from the frustration and doing it better next time 26:00 – Keep calm, finish the case, and go home at 3  

Welcome back to another episode of The Dentists Show! In this candid and strategy-packed conversation, Chase and Ryan sit down to talk about what it really takes to scale a dental practice without losing your mind (or your margins). From understanding the key metrics that actually move the needle to challenging outdated beliefs about marketing spend, the guys dive deep into what it means to be growth-minded and numbers-driven in today's world. Whether you're just getting started, prepping for expansion, or feeling stuck in the middle of a plateau, this episode will help you zoom out, refocus, and take smart, strategic steps forward. (Spoiler: It's not about chasing every new patient—it's about building systems that retain and multiply them.) In this episode, you'll learn: How they track numbers across multiple practices without getting overwhelmed Why high-performing teams need more than financial targets—they need ownership and clarity The surprising insight that not all marketing spend is created equal—and how to know what's working When to pivot from patient acquisition to patient retention—and how to measure that success Why 1% improvements in daily systems are often more valuable than chasing shiny new tools LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Success doesn't happen by accident—it happens by intention, structure, and a team that knows what winning looks like. This episode is a powerful reminder that data isn't boring—it's your roadmap to growth. 📊 Ready to make your numbers actually work for you? Hit play and let Chase and Ryan show you how to bring more clarity, consistency, and cash flow to your practice.   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Intro: Why Tracking Matters More Than Ever 02:16 – Chase breaks down how they track production by provider and team 04:45 – From reactive to proactive: how dashboards create momentum 07:12 – Why they stopped chasing "more new patients" 09:58 – Marketing spend check: what's actually driving results? 12:20 – Ryan's reminder: "Retention > Acquisition" 14:35 – The new game plan for retention and reactivation 16:02 – Helping your team own the goal without micromanaging 18:44 – What's next: staying aligned as you scale

Welcome back to The Dentists Show! In this episode, Chase and Ryan dive into one of the most overlooked yet powerful drivers of practice success: culture. They don't hold back, sharing real stories from their offices and peeling back what truly motivates a team—and what happens when perks take center stage instead. Together, they explore why some teams thrive on camaraderie and service, while others seem to lose their edge even when showered with freebies. From potlucks that bring people together to the downsides of catered meals that feel more like obligations, Chase and Ryan talk about what really binds a team: shared goals, contribution, and purpose. Ryan reflects on the deeper impact of "serving one another," suggesting that when leaders model generosity (think home-cooked meals over take-out) it breeds a sense of pride and teamwork that money can't buy. Chase agrees, noting that perks may feel good in the moment, but they rarely build the kind of enduring loyalty that drives long-term results. By the end of this candid conversation, you'll see why leaning into team culture and creating real connections will always matter more than free food or short-term incentives—and you'll probably feel inspired to look at your own leadership through a new lens. Key takeaways you'll hear in this episode: Why offices with the most perks often have the highest turnover The power of potlucks and shared meals for team bonding Why perks can backfire without a strong underlying culture How serving each other raises morale and builds commitment How to recognize when your team feels more "entitled" than "engaged" 🎧 Hit play to listen to the full conversation, and then forward it to your team lead, your ops manager, or that front-desk MVP who's ready to level up. Let's grow better cultures together!   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Why perks don't build culture 02:45 – The power of shared meals and potlucks 05:30 – What happens when free food feels like an obligation 07:50 – Serving one another as the secret sauce 10:15 – Why perks often backfire without real connection 12:35 – Creating a culture of contribution over entitlement 15:00 – How home-cooked meals show you care 17:20 – Leaders must model generosity first 19:45 – Turning perks into meaningful moments that last 22:10 – Final thoughts: Real culture drives long-term success

Let's face it—talking numbers in dentistry can feel uncomfortable. But if you want to grow a practice that's both impactful and profitable, the numbers matter. In this episode, Chase and Ryan get real about the financial habits, benchmarks, and mindset shifts that helped them scale to where they are today. From understanding monthly production goals to identifying how much each provider should bring in, they pull back the curtain on how top-performing practices think about money. But it's not all spreadsheets and production charts—this conversation also dives into how money can be used as a tool to fuel purpose, freedom, and growth for the entire team. If you've ever felt stuck between wanting to serve and needing to earn, this is the episode that will reframe it all.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Why money conversations matter (and why most dentists avoid them) 02:15 – The difference between production goals and personal goals 06:30 – How to calculate what each dentist should be producing monthly 10:05 – When "hitting numbers" becomes a team culture 13:45 – What to do when a team member isn't pulling their weight 17:20 – Chase's story of learning the hard way about financial expectations 21:00 – How to turn money into purpose-driven growth 25:55 – Why these financial conversations build more than just profit  

Hey friends! It's Chase here—flying solo today on The Dentists Show and getting real about something we all need to hear: you'll win if you just don't quit. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on what keeps me moving forward in dentistry, business, and life. From my favorite book (The Science of Getting Rich) to my philosophy of giving more in service value than we take in cash value, I'm diving into what actually creates lasting success—and why it starts with your thoughts, vision, and refusal to give up. This episode is packed with personal stories, reflection, and a behind-the-scenes look at how I set goals, track wins, and intentionally build a life that's not just about money—but about impact, team, and purpose. 🧠 What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why winners fail more than losers—and what they do differently The exact reason I keep a detailed list of goals, vacations, courses, and wins How to stay focused when others don't understand your vision The one thing I tell myself when I'm tempted to quit How your thoughts are shaping your reality (and what to do about it) If you've ever felt like giving up… this one's for you. Winners fail—but they never stop. You're closer than you think to the breakthrough you want—so keep going. And surround yourself with people who want to see you win. 👉 Ready to grow your vision and lead with purpose? Make sure you're subscribed so you don't miss an episode.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  0:00 – Why this solo episode matters 2:41 – The book that shaped my business mindset 4:22 – How I define service vs. cash value 7:00 – Thoughts become things: the power of vision 9:13 – The trap of sharing your goals too soon 12:00 – The failure paradox: why winners fail more 14:45 – How I track progress in life and business 17:36 – Final encouragement: don't quit

In this episode of The Dentists Show, Chase and Ryan are diving into the light-hearted side of building a dental practice that doesn't suck—and the laughs are real. Broadcasting in front of a live audience, the guys take questions from team members and share hilarious behind-the-scenes stories that remind us all how culture, creativity, and a bit of fun can go a long way. From patient smile ratings to the idea of giving adults a prize box (spoiler: it goes off the rails 😂), they explore ways to make the dental experience memorable for both patients and staff. They also get real about how leadership evolves, how to encourage ownership in your team, and what it really means to create a workplace people want to be a part of. If you're a practice owner trying to find that balance between high performance and high vibes—or you're just here for the inside jokes—this one's for you. 🔑 6 Key Takeaways: Culture isn't just built—it's lived, one weird inside joke at a time. A strong practice has both top performers and top culture fits. Patient communication should focus on outcomes, not just treatments. The idea of a prize box for adults? Surprisingly brilliant... and hilarious. Encouraging team ownership helps leaders step back while scaling up. A thriving practice has room for both growth and gratitude. LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Welcome and live audience vibes 01:42 – Rating your smile: 2 out of 10 or 10 out of 10? 04:30 – Stickers, kids, and why fun matters 06:10 – Should adults get prizes too? Ryan takes it way off script 08:45 – Why patients remember feelings, not just treatment plans 10:30 – Leadership tip: how to get your time back without burnout 12:00 – Wrapping up: Culture-first, performance-aligned practices

Let's be honest—dentistry doesn't always feel exciting. But in this episode, we're flipping that on its head. We kick things off with a ridiculous idea (but also maybe genius?)—a Cavity Free Club that gives adult patients prizes for staying cavity-free. And yes, the prize box might include beer. Or adult toys. Or boxed wine. Look, we're brainstorming out loud. 😂 But what started as a joke turned into a real conversation about how to stand out in a fee-for-service or PPO world and how to make dentistry fun again—for patients and providers. Then we shift gears into something every dentist needs to hear: how to stop over-explaining treatment and start communicating outcomes. We break down our new method for talking with patients using simple "10 out of 10" language—and how it's changing case acceptance across our offices. 🎧 Hit play to listen now and steal one (or both) of these strategies for your own practice. 🔍 You'll Hear: The (maybe terrible, maybe brilliant) "Cavity Club" idea for adults 🏆 Why a can of beer might be better than a toothbrush giveaway The trap of talking treatment when patients want to hear outcomes How the "10 out of 10" method improves clarity and trust Why fewer options = better decisions (for your patients and your sanity) LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Kicking off with chaos + Spokane LaCroix energy 01:30 – The Cavity Club idea: beer, wine, and adult prize boxes 04:30 – What can you actually give away at a dental office legally? 06:00 – Making hygiene fun again when it's not profitable 07:00 – Shifting from treatment to outcome-based case presentations 08:30 – Why 3 options is too many—and how to simplify 10:00 – Using "10 out of 10 smile" and "function" language with patients 12:00 – Real patient consult: when they start using your own words back 14:00 – Why simple language like "2 out of 10" beats clinical terms 16:00 – How outcome-based framing builds trust and closes cases 17:30 – Helping low-confidence doctors simplify their process 18:00 – Wrapping up: try it, test it, and let us know if it works for you!

This might be the most philosophical episode we've ever done—but stay with us. In Episode 32, we're diving into a wild little internet clip that blew our minds and perfectly explains something we've both experienced as leaders, dentists, and just regular dudes trying to figure it all out: your reality isn't always real. From funny stories about patient delusions (and yes, a surprising amount of cat hair) to the mindset shift that can change your entire experience as a dentist, this episode explores how what you see is often what you're looking for. And how shifting that lens can change everything—from toxic team culture to your own happiness. 🎧 Hit play now to hear: The internet clip that made us question everything (look up "That is Embarrassing" if you're curious) Why your "truth" at work might be clouded by your mindset How we accidentally (but intentionally) create September The power of choosing your reality—even when your day sucks Plus, some hilarious patient stories and unexpected wisdom about Mountain Dew, hair loss, and cat ladies 🐱 If you've ever found yourself frustrated with your team, your schedule, or even your own reflection—it might be time to shift what you're looking for.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Welcome to Episode 32 + cat lady definitions 03:00 – The "That is Embarrassing" clip + what your brain hears 05:00 – Perception vs. reality: the science behind how we process things 07:00 – Inter-office drama and how we create our own frustration 09:00 – Learning to reflect before reacting (and firing) 10:30 – We create what we look for—positivity or problems 13:00 – Why September is a myth (unless you believe it's not) 15:30 – Patient delusions and dental misunderstandings 😂 18:00 – Leadership mindsets: curiosity vs. judgment 19:30 – Joy is a skill, not a default 21:00 – The secret to a happier team and better culture 22:00 – Gratitude, homeschooling daughters, and Tuesday podcast breaks 25:00 – Reframing patient experiences and building trust 27:00 – Final takeaway: See what you want to see. Choose joy.

This one's a little different… and a lot more fun. For the first time ever, The Dentists Show is coming to you LIVE (well, sort of). We sat down in front of a room full of incredible team members and fellow dentists to answer real, unscripted questions about practice ownership, partnerships, leadership, fee-for-service dentistry, and everything in between. From the unexpected benefits of buying a "run-down" practice… to navigating associate relationships… to how we really feel about scaling too fast—this episode pulls back the curtain on what it takes to build a thriving dental business without losing your mind (or your passion). If you're growing a practice, leading a team, or just wondering if this dental thing is supposed to feel this hard… this one's for you. 🧠 You'll hear: Why fee-for-service isn't about better margins—it's about better relationships The hard truths about team fit, culture, and letting people go What makes a partnership work (and what causes them to crash) Why more offices ≠ more happiness (trust us) And how to find your passion again—even if it's not clinical work 🎧 Hit play to listen now—and don't forget to share it with another dentist who could use some clarity.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com Episode Minute By Minute:  00:00 – Welcome to our first live audience episode 01:30 – Why we started the show + Spokane love 03:00 – What the show is really about: clarity, ownership, impact 05:00 – First audience Q: Fee-for-service fears and skillset doubts 08:00 – Why building patient relationships is the real secret 10:00 – Associates who do less and make more (and how) 12:00 – Is it a mindset or a system problem? 14:00 – How our partnership started + our failed verbal contract 😂 17:00 – Why most partnerships don't work 19:00 – Ryan's reflections on choosing the right partner 21:00 – What we wish we knew: team misalignment and firing too late 24:00 – The compounding cost of keeping the wrong person 26:00 – Clinical growth + finding your lane 27:00 – What brings you passion? It's not always more money 29:00 – How we choose new practices (and mistakes we've made) 33:00 – Why you shouldn't scale until your first office is maxed out 36:00 – Multi-practice mistakes to avoid 38:00 – The truth about money, stuff, and happiness 39:30 – Wrap-up: Let us know if you liked this format!

In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, Chase and Ryan reflect on the lessons they've learned from a humble old-school veterinarian whose simple advice left a lasting impression. The guys explore what it means to lead a values-driven dental practice in a world obsessed with upsells and upgrades. From nostalgic stories about their early days in dentistry to bold commentary on modern business models, this episode is a call back to service, simplicity, and genuine patient care. They unpack why the best practices might not always be the biggest, why culture still beats convenience, and what it looks like to "make smiles about more than teeth." Whether you're growing a multi-location practice or dreaming of a chill one-chair setup with a dog by your side (no cats allowed, sorry), this one is for you. 👉 You'll hear: The hilarious origin story of The Dentist Show Why the "vet mindset" might be the future of great dentistry Thoughts on nickel-and-dime businesses and how to avoid becoming one How growing a practice doesn't have to mean losing your heart A passionate debate on dogs, cats, and why wet noses might make or break your practice 😂 If you're ready to rethink what success in dentistry really looks like, hit play now—and then forward it to your team lead, your ops manager, or that front desk MVP who's ready to level up. Or better yet, send it to another dentist who needs to hear it.   LINKS: https://www.thedentistsshow.com   Episode Minute By Minute:  0:00 – Welcome back to The Dentist Show 1:30 – The show almost had a way worse name 3:15 – Chase's dog Boxer and a testicle story you didn't expect 6:00 – Life during dental school + poor pet parenting 8:00 – The OG vet who inspired this episode 10:00 – Hamburger + rice and the power of simple care 12:15 – Why today's businesses always want more money 14:20 – Could the one-man-show model still work today? 16:10 – Overhead, profits, and what we owe our team 17:40 – Efficiency vs. Connection: Striking a balance 19:00 – Painting walls after long days and loving the grind 21:30 – "If this all ends, I want a dog in the office" 23:00 – Dogs = cool, Cats =...internal resorption?! 😅 25:00 – Cat herpes, cat people, and accidental science 27:15 – The real message: Be the good. Be like the vet. 28:30 – Why memories and experiences matter more than money 29:00 – Wrap up: Share the episode, especially if you love dogs 🐶