TLP Podcast For Dentists

In this episode, Derek sits down with Dr. Dale Hoffel of Laguna Beach, California, to unpack her remarkable and vulnerable path to ownership. From battling severe depression and personal trauma to rediscovering purpose and chasing a long-lost dream, Dale’s story is one of courage, self-awareness, and transformation. She opens up about the years she thought dentistry was behind her, how therapy and honest self-reflection changed everything, and what ultimately reignited her drive to lead and create the life she wanted. This conversation is an honest look at what it takes to rebuild — mentally, emotionally, and professionally — and why being authentic can be the greatest advantage in life and leadership. Highlights include: Facing and overcoming mental health struggles in college The turning point that led her back to dental school Learning to stop hiding and start sharing her story Building confidence through vulnerability Reconnecting with her “why” and choosing ownership with purpose. Reach out to Dale at drdaledentistry@gmail.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, Matt continues his conversation with attorney Vince Nardone on the legal mistakes dentists make around practice acquisitions. Building on Part 1, they expand the discussion and continue breaking down areas where dentists get themselves into trouble, often without realizing it until much later. Vince shares additional examples and insight that apply whether you're preparing to buy a practice or already own one and want to avoid costly legal surprises. 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, Matt sits down with attorney Vince Nardone, a legal expert who has handled countless dental practice acquisitions. They break down the most common mistakes dentists make when buying a practice and why many of these errors don’t surface until it’s too late. Vince shares real-world scenarios and key red flags to watch out for, whether you’re currently looking to buy a practice or already own one and want to avoid hidden legal and financial traps. 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

Derek interviews Steve about how he and his family moved to Europe and lived out of backpacks. They discuss the planning the trip, and what traveling in Europe looks like. They talk about prioritizing experiences and  acting with urgency on your dreams. 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 de Graaff interviews Dr. Derek Williams about what life was really like after selling his practice and hitting the road full-time with his family. Derek shares the fears, logistics, and challenges of RV life with five kids, along with the deep rewards—stronger family relationships, personal growth, and a new perspective on freedom. They discuss what it feels like to step away from clinical dentistry, how to find fulfillment after financial independence, and why chasing growth may be the ultimate goal. 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. Derek Williams and Dr. Steve Van de Graaff open up about the vision, planning, and mindset that allowed them to sell their practices and take extended time away with their families. They share the early influences that shaped their career goals, the numbers and strategies that made financial independence possible, and the emotional challenge of actually pulling the trigger. Whether you dream of early financial freedom or simply want more balance, this conversation offers insights on building a practice that supports your ideal lifestyle—both now and in the 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

In this episode of The Lifestyle Practice Podcast, Dr. Derek Williams breaks down exactly how he sold his dental practice without a broker—what he did, why he did it, and what he’d change. Derek covers building a bank-ready prospectus (financials, KPIs, payer mix), where and how he marketed the listing (FB groups, classifieds, ADA Marketplace), keeping anonymity (NDAs, separate email), and running negotiations when you’re representing yourself. He also compares private-dentist buyers vs. DSOs, talks timing (why not being in a rush matters), transition terms, real estate flexibility, and the role of a flat-fee attorney. Whether you’re considering a DIY sale or debating a broker, you’ll leave with a clear framework and practical next steps. 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, 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 a brand new owner 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. He 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 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 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