The Dental Marketer

Should dentists be worried amidst a declining economy?Xaña Winans joins us today to delve into the strategic world of dental practice management during economic fluctuations. Xaña, a seasoned expert, opens the conversation by contextualizing the recent economic tumult and its effects on patient behavior, emphasizing the pressing need for practices to adapt swiftly. She shares invaluable insights on fostering patient loyalty and retention amidst adversity, underscoring that establishing a loyal patient base requires a harmonious blend of technology and personal interaction. Xaña argues that while automation is crucial, the human touch remains paramount for cultivating long-term relationships with patients.Beyond personal connections, Xaña dives deep into the significance of membership programs and the strategic articulation of a practice's unique selling propositions (USPs). These strategies not only solidify patient loyalty but also stabilize practice revenue flows. Special attention is given to effective communication through social media and maintaining robust marketing efforts during trying economic times. While many dentists want to cut costs during a recession, Xaña shows how the opposite approach may boast a 246% return on investment!What You'll Learn in This Episode:How economic changes affect patient behavior and practice dynamics.The role of personal connection in minimizing harmful cancellation rates.Strategies for creating meaningful patient relationships through automated tools.The benefits of implementing membership programs for patient retention.Importance of clearly defining and communicating practice USPs.How to maintain effective marketing strategies during economic downturns.Utilizing SEO and digital advertising to grow market share.Crafting consistent, emotionally resonant messaging on social media.How investing MORE when the economy is down could give you a 246% return on investment.Tune in to change your practice's approach to patient loyalty and economic resilience!‍‍Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:Website: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment/‍Guest: Xaña WinansBusiness Name: Golden Proportions MarketingCheck out Xaña's Media:Website: goldenproportions.comYour Perfect Patient Match Webinar: bitli.pro/2eP73_4cf464bf (Contact Xaña to inquire about the recording!)Xaña's Go-To Phone Script:Other Mentions and Links:‍Dental Membership Plans:KleerBoomCloud‍Software/Tools:Google AdsGoogle Analytics‍Insurance Companies:AetnaBlue Cross Blue Shield‍Brands/Companies:NetflixAmazonWalmartWhole Foods Market‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.

‍How can you transform problem-solving into an art in your practice?In this Monday Morning Episode, we welcome Dr. Pauline Le, who provides a fresh perspective on common dental practice challenges. Dr. Le reveals how universal these challenges are and how essential it is for businesses to identify and candidly discuss them. With a focus on collaborative environments, she delves into the power of professional groups and demystifies the often-tricky realm of team dynamics.Dr. Le breaks down the renowned three-step problem-solving process from the book "Traction," offering listeners a foolproof approach to untangling business issues. By fostering an environment where discussing issues is not only encouraged but expected, businesses can distinguish between personal and professional problems and maintain focus on solutions. With actionable tips on nurturing a transparent culture and keeping an up-to-date issues list, Pauline’s advice is invaluable for practice owners seeking to empower their teams and effectively address persistent hurdles.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Strategies for tackling common business issues in dental practices.The significance of open discussions in resolving workplace challenges.Benefits of joining professional groups and improving team dynamics.How to implement the three-step "Traction" process for problem-solving.Techniques for creating a safe environment for issue discussions.Understanding personal versus company issues in a business setting.Importance of maintaining a consistent issues list for effective meetings.Tune in now to uncover transformative strategies for overcoming dental practice challenges with Dr. Pauline Le!‍‍Sponsors:‍‍Oryx: All-In-One Cloud-Based Dental Software Created by Dentists for Dentists. Patient engagement, clinical, and practice management software that helps your dental practice grow without compromise. Click or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/oryx/‍You can reach out to Dr. Pauline Le here:Website: ledentalspa.comInstagram: instagram.com/drpaulineleOther Mentions and Links:‍Books:Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business‍Software:ClickUp‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey, Pauline, so talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning? Pauline: I would say that we all have issues. Michael: Interesting. Can you expand on that a little bit more? What do you mean? Pauline: In any business, we all have the same exact issues and the sooner you will admit that you have issues and identify them, we can discuss them and we can solve them.That's Michael: Okay, so then many practice owners feel they have challenges that are one of a kind, right? at what point did you realize that the issues you were facing were not unique to your practice? And then how did this change your approach to solving those issues?Pauline: When I started joining different groups of other dentists, other practice owners, and a lot of the Facebook groups are really helpful. I just started seeing a trend where people were posting the same questions, the same issues, the same problems and grateful for this community, right? But what I was finding was some of these groups can become where people are just coming in to vent and they weren't necessarily actually solving the problem.issues. So that's when I started noticing that, okay, it's the same recurrent problems. And I grew up where my parents owned businesses. And although different businesses than mine I started seeing things parallel, people have the same complaints, whether it be about patients. People, your team or procedures, right?So processes people always end up having the same types of issues in whatever business they have. So I just started seeing things parallel. Michael: Interesting. So then in these groups specifically, what were some of the things where you feel like. Man, you're just venting like this is a common thread where people just vent and vent and vent Pauline: I think the most common one lately has been what they can't find hygienists.They can't find quote unquote good people good employees It's the same vent. It's the same complaint that all business owners want to fall victim to Michael: Let's just talk about that, fixing that specific problem that everybody's complaining about. I can't find a hygienist or a team member.Pauline: in the general idea of issues, first off, I think it's a mindset thing. We need to own that. We all have issues. Every single one of our businesses will have issues and we should actually welcome them and we should foster a culture where your team can openly talk about issues, right?It's not a safe environment to bring things up, then you're just going to have an ongoing nagging to do list or unresolved issues. And that's just going to slow down the growth of your business. So the sooner you can build this. Culture, and it starts with your leadership team of having open, honest conversations about issues.The sooner you can actually solve them and save energy, save time. So when it comes to issues, there are three main steps that we take here at Laudanusvall, and we learned it from the book Traction. So first step is you want to identify the issue. And really every single business. There's really three main types of issues.it's either going to be a true problem that actually needs to be solved, it can be information that needs to be communicated or agreed upon by the team or an idea and opportunity that needs feedback, brainstorming or insight, right?And once you actually identify the issue, then you can move on to the next step where you discuss it. This is where you're probably going to spend the most time in your meetings is discussing the actual issue. And then when you are discussing, you'll find that sometimes you go off on tangents and then sometimes other issues.arise from these discussions. So it is really important to foster a culture where you can talk about issues, but you can also say, tangent alert, or can we put a pin in that? Or can we just list it on our issues list and then get back to it, right? So it's not gearing you away from discussing that one issue that was first brought up.And then, You would go into solving the issue. So this is the main point, why we should be having an issues list, right? Because we need to solve things and keep things moving. And what I find in these dentist groups and, you know, being around my other colleagues, is sometimes they don't actually want to solve things. Pauline: And sometimes people just want to vent or feel like okay, there's other people like me going through this, which, there is importance in that. But at the same time, we need to be leaders and we need to solve issues and keep things moving for the rest of our team and the rest of our practice.And you'll notice as you start solving issues, you don't want to make the mistake by solving just the very top issue down. You need to prioritize issues. So you'll notice that as you start solving the bigger issues that hold higher priority, your other issues below it start diminishing, start disappearing.Because really, you're already solving it when you solve the bigger issue and all these other things start being like, oh my gosh, that makes so much sense now. Okay, that already got resolved because we talked about this bigger issue. So I think regarding the hygiene problem that a lot of practices are having.identifying the actual issue, right? My issue might be different because I'm a fee for service office, might be very different than an office that is PPO or an office that's HMO. Even though the chief complaint would be we can't find a hygienist, Identifying the actual issue is going to be so different in each of our practices, So my practice we are a fee for service office, you know, we ask a lot from our team members because we deliver a very, patient centered type of care. We data collect, we scan, we are very thorough and comprehensive. So that's not for every hygienist out there, and so that goes into being very clear with your vision and your expectations and your hiring process is going to be a lot longer, than.most practices, I would say. So like I said, actually identifying the issue and then discussing it and then how you're going to solve it is going to be so different between the three different types of practices, even though the chief complaint is the same. Michael: interesting. Okay. So then if we rewind a little bit, you said you want to foster an environment where it's safe to discuss about issues.How do you know you're in an unsafe environment? Pauline: Based off feedback, right? So a lot of leadership. Isn't true leadership. I would say some practices. I think some business owners already know how they want to answer without even involving, I guess, their leadership team and discussing the actual issue. when people bring up ideas or they bring up An issue, like how you respond to it, is so important. If you shut down your team member or, you know, you're blaming it on them no one's going to want to keep coming to you with an issue then, because that's just how you're going to react.Versus We all make honest mistakes here and communication is the biggest of it all in order for us all align and be on the same page right where one person might be only looking at it from one viewpoint and another person might be looking at from a different viewpoint like oh my gosh I didn't even see that what you saw thing.by discussing it you're actually able to then solve it and that's really important. An open communication a safe environment talk about things versus oh you didn't do this. This wasn't done Versus the understanding

Through associateship, starting her own practice, and all the challenges along the way, Dr. Landi Rosenau's journey is a testament to resilience and ambition. From her initial career as an ER nurse, Landi discovered her passion for dentistry through firsthand exposure within her then-husband's practice. This pivotal encounter, combined with an unmet need for continuous patient care in nursing, motivated her transition to dental school. The story truly takes shape during the COVID pandemic, when Landi seized the opportunity to reinvent her career, establishing her own practice. Her decision was fueled by the desire for autonomy and improved work conditions, which she successfully achieved through strategic patient management and strong internal communication protocols.Take a deeper dive as Dr. Landi Rosenau candidly shares the ups and downs of developing her practice. Building her business mainly on referrals and word-of-mouth, she underscores the essential role of an efficient, coordinated team. Yet, her path was not without challenges, facing critical issues with external partnerships like her IT company and other vendors. These setbacks not only taught her the power of instinct and control over financial aspects but also strengthened her resolve. As she reflects on these experiences, Landi provides invaluable lessons about balancing personal and professional demands, making patient-centered choices, and emphasizing the importance of a supportive work environment—insights that resonate deeply with anyone navigating the dental industry.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The journey from ER nurse to entrepreneurial dentist.How the COVID pandemic influenced Dr. Rosenau's career decisions.Key operational strategies for a successful dental practice.The significance of communication systems and patient relations.Overcoming challenges with external partnerships and financial management.Insights on team coordination and its impact on business growth.The importance of resilience and adaptability in dental careers.Dr. Rosenau's process for maximizing patient benefits.Tune in now to discover how Dr. Landi Rosenau turned challenges into opportunities in her practice!‍‍Guest: Dr. Landi RosenauPractice Name: Flourish Family & General DentistryCheck out Landi's Media:Website: flourishdentistry.comFacebook: facebook.com/drlandij‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Insurance Companies/Services:Delta DentalWisdom Dental Billing‍Brands/Products:Lowe'sBotoxBenco DentalGaldermaPatterson DentalDentistry Support‍Practice Management Software:Curve DentalOpen DentalDentrix‍Press:Change Healthcare Data Breach‍Books:The Culture Code: The Secrets of Highly Successful Groups‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.

‍Imagine a dental practice where team well-being takes center stage, resulting in enhanced patient care!In this Monday Morning Episode, Josey Sewell reveals groundbreaking dental practice management strategies, particularly focusing on effective recruitment and retention of hygienists. Emphasizing that the team's wellness is as crucial as patient care, Josey shares how attending to the needs of your dental staff can transform your practice. We get an insider's view into the common pitfalls in leadership that often drive valuable employees away and discover Josey's transformative "Connect, Measure, Coach" framework designed to uplift leadership and engagement.Dive deeper as Josey introduces her comprehensive five Ps framework—Purpose, People, Power, Prosperity, and Performance—where each facet plays a pivotal role in creating a thriving work environment. By setting and tracking goals within these realms, leaders can mitigate burnout and boost workplace satisfaction. Josey also shares valuable insights on how the delicate balance between vulnerability and authority can cultivate trust among the team. This episode empowers dental leaders with practical tools to enhance their leadership skills and build a dedicated, satisfied dental team.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Innovative strategies for enhancing dental practice management.Key leadership mistakes that lead to high employee turnover.Insights on the "Connect, Measure, Coach" framework.An introduction to the five Ps framework for improved engagement.Techniques for reducing burnout and boosting workplace satisfaction.The role of balancing vulnerability with authority to foster trust.Dive into today's episode to learn more about team growth and the team-centered approach!‍‍You can reach out to Josey Sewell here:Instagram: instagram.com/joseysewellEmail: josey@joseysewell.comOther Mentions and Links:‍People:Simon SinekJohn C. MaxwellBenjamin HardyDan Sullivan‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey, Josie. So talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning? Josey: Oh, I'm so excited about this. My piece of advice is that your number one customer is absolutely your team. Over your patients. And I know a lot of dentists probably panic when I say that, but we spend a ton of time and effort and energy on marketing and taking great care of our patients.But when we take great care of our team, that's going to translate to great patient care. And today I'd actually like to talk in particular about recruiting and retention of hygienists. Having been a hygienist myself, been a hygiene director, I've been a COO of a dental group. And what I will tell you now as a coach helping people across the country is that every single one of the clients that I work with, they are struggling with finding and retaining dental hygienists.And what I find is that a lot of people typically use COVID as an excuse. They'll say, Oh, COVID happened. It shut the world down. And we saw hygienists leave the profession. And we know that about 10 percent of hygienists did leave the field. And I think that that's really unfortunate. But now what we hear is that people just say, there's just not any hygienists available.They just don't want to work. They don't want to be in clinic. And what I would say from being a hygienist and being in the hygiene community is actually that hygienists do want to work. They do love clinical, but the reason that we've seen some of them leave the field and the reason that we see a lot of hygienists who have chosen A permanent job as temping is because we have a leadership crisis.And what I mean by that is hygienists are choosing not to work in your company because you're not leading them in a way that is meaningful to them. Michael: Okay. Gotcha. So then what specific leadership behaviors have you observed that push Hygienist and team members to leave and how can practice owners correct these behaviors before losing valuable staff?Josey: Yeah So I have a very simple framework That I find works really well for you to remember when you're thinking about leading and that is connect measure coach and so what I mean by that is to connect with people in a meaningful way and I mean trying to get to know them as a human being understand what's going on in their life even You Taking time to find out what their dreams and their goals and their aspirations are.So that's connect. Measure is how do we appropriately measure success. And that includes utilizing key performance indicators or KPIs. But with hygienists in particular, sometimes they're afraid of numbers and metrics. So they feel like if a practice is asking me to be a high producer or to track my numbers, that means that they care more about money than about patient care.And so what you have to do in helping hygienists understand metrics is you have to connect Those metrics to patient outcomes and to clinical care. And you also have to teach them a little bit about the business of dentistry, because when they have a greater understanding and they know how these numbers fit in, they absolutely will engage and appreciate those numbers.So there's a special nuance into introducing numbers and metrics. And the last one is coach. I love the quote by Dan Sullivan, that he says, people don't want to be managed. People want to be coached. our team members, whether they are hygienist or not, have a very different expectation in what they want from us as employers and in our work environment.And they want to be coached. It is not just about their job. It is about their life. And so we need to coach people up into a position. So maybe I'm a front office person and I'm growing into a manager position or I'm a hygienist and I'm going into a hygiene lead.That's up in my position is primarily what we do in dentistry is we're helping people achieve mastery over time. But so many hygienists feel like there's a very short ceiling to their career. I will tell you, I left clinical because I thought there's nowhere for me to grow. And yet I was motivated and excited about advancing what I did as a clinician, but I felt limited because my doctors did not actually engage in the same CE or passion that I had.for prevention or treating periodontal disease. So providing a pathway to grow. And then sometimes, Michael, we have to coach people out of our business. Because sometimes our business outgrows our people and sometimes our people outgrow our business. For those of you who are especially getting started in dentistry, some of you have this expectation that I'll graduate from dental school.I'll have my practice and I'll find this amazing team. And this amazing team is going to be with me forever. However, lifelong employment is a thing of the past. And a lot of people don't. grow up as a little girl or a little boy dreaming about answering the phone at her front office. And so we have to just know and recognize that people are going to come and go in our business and our relationships don't have to be dependent on an employment agreement.So again, connect in meaningful ways, measure performance, be very clear what your expectations are, and then coach people up in or out knowing that sometimes it is better for them in their life to move on. And that doesn't mean we can't still remain friends. Hmm. Michael: How would you connect in meaningful ways?Josey: Great question. So we actually have a framework that we've developed after working with literally thousands of employees and helping hundreds of managers grow. we call it the five Ps, and that is the various different parts of their life where we will have people.Take a look at these five important critical areas of their life and challenge them to set a vision for themselves and then also to set 90 day goals. So a very specific example is we have one of them that's called power and power is my physical, mental, and spiritual health. And it's encouraging people to have healthy habits for how they take care of themselves.In dentistry in particular, one of the saddest things that I see is when clinical careers are cut short due to different musculoskeletal things or injuries, and so Are we encouraging our people to have regular habits of exercise or mindfulness or whatever that is? And so we have a framework that we have people fill out what their goals are.And we sit down within the first 90 days of employment and we go through that and we just get to know our people in a meaningful way. And then we check in on them occasionally about every 90 days on their goals. So some people, it makes them feel really uncomfortable to think am I really going to ask?My people about their personal goals. And the answer is yes, you are because they are a person with dreams and goals and aspirations. And the more that you understand who they are and what's important to them, the more that you can connect those goals to what the business goals are. And then we can win together.Michael: So you said there's five P's, right? Josey: Yeah. You want me to go through all five? Michael: Yeah. Real quick. That'd be Josey: great. So the first P is purpose. And that is like your personal Y or your personal core values. And so this one is probably the toughest one for to define a vision for themselves or their 90 day goals.But what I have seen after working with so many incredible entrepreneurs, and I'll speak to you as the owner dentist for just a second. Is dentists have been successful their whole life. They probably did well in high school and got great grades. They got them into college and then they did well in college and they got into dental school and then they get out and they buy a practice.And so often I see peo

‍How can a well-managed hygiene department skyrocket production in your practice?Today we're diving into a conversation with Dr. Bill Trout and consultant Tiffany Wuebben to unravel the often underestimated but crucial role of hygiene departments in dental practice success. Dr. Trout, a veteran in managing multiple practice locations, shares how his operations thrive through strategic organization and empowered leadership. He brings to light the indispensable contribution of his wife, and his hygiene team lead, illustrating a well-oiled machine where each part enhances the other. Tiffany complements this by detailing how she has collaborated with Dr. Trout to significantly elevate the practice's hygiene department through focused analytics and the innovative use of CareStack's customized scorecards.Continuing the discussion, Tiffany emphasizes the significance of consistent training and comprehensive metrics in enhancing dental hygiene performance. The duo shares practical strategies for transitioning from a micromanagement style to one where responsibility is effectively delegated, allowing for a harmonious office environment. As they wrap up, Dr. Trout and Tiffany provide actionable advice for dental practice owners looking to strengthen their hygiene operations. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on building a system that champions leadership, patient care, and operational excellence, with Tiffany offering additional resources and guidance for those keen on further exploration.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The hidden importance of hygiene departments in dental practice success.How to use metrics and analytics to boost performance.Strategies for effective leadership and delegation within dental practices.The benefits of ongoing training to keep the team engaged and skilled.Innovative tools to increase productivity, such as CareStack's scorecards.Practical steps to enhance hospitality-based patient care.A roadmap to achieving cohesion and motivation among team members.Tune in now to discover how to empower your hygiene department!‍‍Sponsors:‍CareStack: Modern, Secure, Cloud-Based Dental Software for Growing Your Practice! With state-of-the-art features including Online Appointments, Integrated Payments, Text Reminders and more. Click the link here for a special offer: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/carestack/‍Guest: Dr. Bill Trout & Tiffany WuebbenPractice Name: Dental Wellness Centers of GeorgiaCheck out Bill and Tiffany's Media:Dr. Trout's Practices: dentalwellnessga.comDr. Trout's Email: troutTCD@msn.comDr. Trout's Phone: 912-665-2792Tiffany's Website: thehygienepreneur.comTiffany's Email: tiffany@thehygienepreneur.comGrab a Free Copy of Tiffany's Book!Other Mentions and Links:‍Patient Benefit Organizations:CareingtonConnection DentalDentemaxEducation:The University of GeorgiaPeople:Nick Saban - Alabama Football CoachBusinesses/Brands:McDonald'sBurger KingHardee'sIn-N-Out Burger‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.

‍How often do leaders find themselves in situations where silence could have been their most powerful tool? In this episode, we dive deep into the leadership journey of Dr. Manrina Rhode and learn about the transformative lessons she's embraced as a business owner. Dr. Manrina candidly reveals her shift from a leader eager to express every thought to one who masterfully chooses her words. She shares intimate reflections on learning when to "shut up," a tactic that has redefined her approach to managing teams and maintaining a harmonious workplace environment. Her story is a compelling exploration of the inner changes she made to lead more effectively.Drawing from her own experiences, Dr. Manrina offers a toolbox of strategies vital for any leader aiming to foster accountability and support within their teams. From scheduling regular meetings to address concerns in a steady, composed fashion, to the importance of documenting and constructively addressing recurring issues, her advice is both practical and refreshingly honest. This episode is not just an insightful peek into her leadership evolution but a guide filled with actionable ideas any practice owner can implement to refine their communication style and team dynamics.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The power of silence in leadership and when to "shut up."Strategies for managing emotional reactions in the workplace.How to foster a supportive and accountable team environment.The importance of scheduled meetings for conflict resolution.Effective techniques for documenting and addressing recurring issues.The impact of calm and constructive communication on team morale.Tune in to discover how to communicate more effectively with your team!‍‍‍Sponsors:‍‍Gusto: Dentist payroll for the modern practice. Gusto’s cloud-based software provides all the payroll and HR tools you need to run your dental practice efficiently. Having it all on one platform keeps our prices low, and makes your job so much easier. Enjoy best-in-class support, benefits like health coverage for your team, and more. Visit or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://gusto.com/tdm‍You can reach out to Dr. Manrina Rhode here:Instagram: instagram.com/drmanrinarhodeOther Mentions and Links:‍Brands:Botox‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: amen. Rena, so talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning? Manrina: My piece of advice is to learn to shut. Michael: Expound on that a little bit. is that advice? Manrina: I think it's something that I've had to learn as a business owner and it goes against everything I learned before I was a business owner. So as young lady growing up and then as an associate dentist, I always believed it was important to speak my mind. And if someone had upset me, offended me, done something that felt like an injustice, To speak out loud about it, and I kind of pride myself for being that person and doing that. and as a business owner, I've learned that's not always the best way to go. And with your team, if every time they do something wrong that upsets you, like, I don't know, like I had someone today send out one of my patients, the wrong skincare product. They wanted one product and they sent them another product, you know, and I was like, why, why did you send the wrong product?And, you know, they said, oh, they were next to each other. And I think, you know, the, the old marina and the way that had been brought up and what I'd always believed to be correct. would have really wanted to talk about that and explore it and understand it and be like, but how is that an answer to sell me that because they were next to each other?If someone's ordered hydrate lip oil, you send them, hydrate lip oil, why would you send them plumpbut what I have learned, being a boss. Is it's not my place to then have that conversation. it's just my place to listen and accept and say, okay, and that's it.Shut up. Okay. And that's such a journey for me. because it went against my essence of just like really explaining how I feel. and to the point of like, then when you see the,person later on and, you know, in the staff room and they say, Oh, I'm really sorry about that. skincare thing. just smiling at them genuinely back and saying, okay, maybe how I was feeling, but I've had to learn this mass suppression of emotion opinions. So just, obviously it's important to take note of everything that's going on around you. I'll make notes understand what's happening with my team and bring it up at the right time in the correct way. But what's not correct is like my life has been up until now dealing with friends and colleagues that you can just be quite open about how you're feeling, about what's happening Michael: at the time. Interesting. So then how do you know when to bring it up in the right time in the right way, especially like that scenario? Manrina: Yeah, so we have meetings, scheduled meetings. with everyone, right? So I have a daily huddle, definitely a group environment. I bring things up in a group environment as team learning for everyone, not using a specific person as an example, but doing a reminder saying, Hey, we're all going to have a this morning. what product is this? What does this product do? Let's do a spot test. Does everyone know what's going on here? we have weekly meetings, which are designed to go through these things. which be a more appropriate place to do the spot skin care test. We have monthly practice meetings. we have monthly reviews for new team members and three monthly, reviews for team members who have been with us for longer. do it monthly for three months and then it moves on to three monthly and eventually six monthly. I also have, like, different team members, with my practice manager, for example, I have a weekly meeting. if she does something that I can make a note and in the weekly meeting, if I don't want to make a big deal out about it, then in the weekly meeting, when we're having a one on one, I can say, Hey, by the way, this happened this week. And that's made me feel a certain way. And is everything okay? And I guess it's also that it's being like, is everything okay? Rather than getting upset with someone and saying, I don't want to say it, but like, are you stupid? You're just going to be like, is everything okay? Well, you know, is there a reason why you felt like, did this happened or these mistakes happen this week?Is there something that I can support you in? so it's a whole like reframe you think when you're open to practice, everyone might think they're going to be the boss and they're going to tell everyone what to do, but I think it's almost the opposite. It's easier to be the boss when you're an associate, Whereas as a boss, to actually keep a happy team, you need just very calmly, Go through anything that goes wrong then put actions in place to make sure it doesn't happen again and obviously know everything down.So rather than acting on it immediately, make a note of it and then decide the appropriate action to take, the correct time to have that discussion. it's not necessarily something that you have immediately. Michael: interesting. So then it's almost like as if. Shutting up is part of the calming down process, could you think of something in that moment to, you know, I just need to be nicer, but I'm going to tell it to you straight. Yeah, Manrina: when like the skincare thing happened today, then I responded and said, Oh, okay. That's unfortunate that you're not familiar with our, with our sentence. read about them and watch all the videos. if you could do that for me, then when I see you next week, I'll schedule a time for me to go through that with you and test you on them. So this doesn't happen again. Could you please send an apology message to the person you sent the wrong skincare to? Arrange when you want to be sent out, just to let you know the cost of the skincare will be deducted from your wages. So that was my immediate response. Which was quite measured and, fair, with all the points for what needs to be done. there's nothing emotional in that.It's just very fact. This happened. This is what we're going to do about it, to make sure it doesn't happen again. And this is how we're going to fix what's happened right now. and these are the actions I'm taking because you've done something wrong. Michael: How do they react? Manrina: They said, okay, I, um, yeah, I was going to say you should deduct it for my wages as well. And yeah, sorry again. Michael: Oh, okay. Interesting. So then how did this come out to be Minrina? Like, how did you realize I probably should start shutting up more? Manrina: I think it was really early on. I had a nurse and He gave pounds worth of Botox. To the lab guy, like the lab guy came to collect lab work and he picked the lab work out of the fridge and picked up a bag of Botox as well.And gave the lab guy my lab work and 500 worth of Botox, which is a prescription medication and it's useless once it's kept out of the fridge. So couldn't even be returned. and then the lab called and said, Oh, you've given us this bag of Botox. And I think at the time I was so shocked like, you know, early boss days.And I'm just like that's incompetent. I feel like that's incompetent behavior. What do you think about it? And then he was like oh yeah, I made a mistake, but you can't call me. incompetent. That's not allowed. then I, you know, asked my, my HR and they were like, yeah, youcan't tell someone that they've done something wrong.Like say that this is what you are. You can only say to them, do you think that was competent? Do you think that was competent behavior? And so I was like, Oh, it's so

What are the real-life challenges and triumphs transitioning from corporate dentistry to an acquisition?In this conversation, we welcome Dr. Noah Mustafa, a dentist who didn't just stop at practicing dentistry—he redefined it. Dr. Mustafa opens up about his inspiring journey, recounting his experiences transitioning from the predictable world of corporate dentistry to becoming the proud owner of Luna Dental in Toms River, New Jersey. He walks us through the challenges he encountered, from gaining patient trust to the integral steps he took to foster a respectful and communicative team atmosphere. This episode is a goldmine of insights for anyone curious about the intricacies of running a dental practice and the importance of compassionate caregiving.The episode doesn't just stop at dental techniques; it delves into operational strategies, like the crucial role of search engine optimization for enhancing the clinic's online presence and the careful upgrades he made to practice management software. Dr. Mustafa further enriches the conversation with personal anecdotes about striking a balance between his demanding profession and family, sharing insights into leadership and the indispensable value of grit. Dr. Mustafa's also reflects on unwinding after a busy day and the principles that guide his steadfast commitment to both his patients and his team.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The transformative journey from corporate to private practice.Essential strategies for effective team communication and respect.Insights into leveraging SEO for a dental practice's success.Gradual implementation strategies for new practice software.Balancing professional responsibilities with family life.Dr. Mustafa's unique approaches to leadership and patient care.Personal anecdotes on maintaining work-life harmony and relaxation.The profound impact of grit and effort in professional growth.Tune in to uncover the secrets behind Dr. Mustafa's successful practice acquisition!‍‍Sponsors:‍‍Oryx: All-In-One Cloud-Based Dental Software Created by Dentists for Dentists. Patient engagement, clinical, and practice management software that helps your dental practice grow without compromise. Click or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/oryx/‍Guest: Dr. Noah MustafaPractice Name: Luna DentalCheck out Noah's Media:Website: lunadentalnj.comPhone: 732-244-3444Instagram: instagram.com/lunadentalnj‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Businesses:Aspen Dental‍Software/Tools:DentrixAhrefsCanvaWordPress‍People:Frank Sinatra‍Products:Acupressure Mat‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.

‍Balancing life and business can often feel like a precarious tightrope walk, but Dr. Desiree Yazdan shares her personal journey of mastering this art. In this episode, Dr. Yazdan opens up about her transformative shift from a demanding workaholic schedule to a more sustainable, lifestyle-friendly business model. After becoming a mother, she realized the need to create a professional life that reconciles with her personal values and priorities. Dr. Yazdan candidly discusses the trials and triumphs of setting new boundaries, the pushback she faced from her team and clients, and how she triumphed by maintaining a steadfast positive mindset. Learn how Dr. Yazdan adheres to her revamped work hours and maintains her productivity without compromising her well-being.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to build a business that aligns with your lifestyle priorities.The challenges of setting and enforcing new personal boundaries.Strategies for handling resistance from peers and clients with grace.The impact of a positive mindset on achieving work-life balance.Ways to maintain well-being and productivity through effective time management.Dr. Yazdan's personal tips for prioritizing mental health in business.Don't miss this chance to learn about balancing your business and your lifestyle—tune in now!‍‍The Pediatric Dental Marketing Course is open for enrollment!This comprehensive course, developed by Minal Sampat and myself, is tailored specifically for pediatric practice owners and their teams. It is designed to turn your pain points into stepping stones for success, and to help you become the trusted dental home for countless children in your community. Head over to our site to enroll now! pediatricdentalmarketingcourse.com‍You can reach out to Dr. Desiree Yazdan here:Instagram: instagram.com/dryazdanEmail: drdyadzan@gmail.com‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey, Desiree, so talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning? Desiree: I would say the piece of advice is to build your lifestyle first and then build your business around that. Michael: with that being said, what if we want to grow in our community that we are at, or we decide to listen to the demographics and think, Hey, this is the best ratio to patient.Okay. Thanks. Let's move here. And then later on, we realized we don't really like where we're at. Desiree: Yeah. So obviously you have to like, look at what's around you and what you're doing. But, when I said that, I think because I'm a mom, I have two little kids. And before I had kids, I was working always kind of at the expense of myself.I was open all the time, like 12, 13 hours a day. If somebody needed me in the middle of the night, I was available. Like, and I thought that that is what I needed to create a successful business. And then once I had my first daughter, I was like, okay, this just isn't sustainable. And so I started to analyze, what can I do to.Make my patients still feel like they're being really well taken care of, but also make sure that I'm taking care of my family. that's when I started to think how do I want my day to actually be? And yeah, you can't just be open for like three hours a day and then expect to have a super successful business, but you can decide what times you want to be working, what days you want to be working and then build your success off that.I just.Requires you to be much more efficient with the time that you are working. So like understand business, you have to know your numbers, you have to learn how to have a positive mindset consistently, take yourself out of the negative spirals quickly, and then just get yourself to a place where you could be really efficient in a smaller amount of time.Gotcha. So then how did you realize this wasn't sustainable? Yeah. I mean, I was just working so much. I was always working and I thought it was like a good thing. I would pride myself on like, Oh, I'm like a workaholic. And then, I think one of the times that really stood out to me, it was Thanksgiving and I just pulled up to my parents house with my husband.And I had a phone call from a patient who broke a temporary. And she wasn't even like super concerned. She was just like, ah, is this okay? And I remember walking upstairs to my parents house. And then being like, oh, I have to go. There's like a patient that broke a temporary like I'll go in and see her and whatever.and then I remember when I was driving there. I'm like, why would I do this? the patient's not in pain. And I understand it could be an emergency but it's also like it's thanksgiving and you know I need to change my boundaries And I think that moment was one that I was like, okay Like I don't know if I want to do this forever And then once I had my first daughter that just like really solidified it because you know when you have a newborn They really need you especially as the mom and so I was like, okay, we're just gonna change things up Michael: So then what efficient systems did you have to implement in order to actually change boundaries? Desiree: Yeah. So it always starts with mindset. I always go back to this. Anything that you want as far as streamlining your practice growth changing your boundaries always starts with your mindset first.So you have to first get really comfortable in your mind with your new hours and whatever it is that you're wanting to change. And then when you go to implement that, like there's no gray area. So it's like, Hey, I'm done seeing patients by this time and I need to leave at this time. And then you do that, right?So when your office presents to you, Oh, this patient just called and they want to be seen for an emergency and it's a new patient. And you're like, Oh, well, I need to leave in 30 minutes. You know, It's really hard to say no, because you're leaving money on the table andyou know, it's your practice and you're trying to grow and build it.But when you take your boundaries seriously, then you say, Ooh, I can't give good care in the little time that I have. let's see if we can get them in tomorrow instead. And the patient might not want to be seen tomorrow. They might call somewhere else and you just have to be okay with that.Michael: Gotcha. Okay. So then how did patients or your team react when this started happening? Desiree: Oh, personally for me, my team was very unhappy with it. you know, cause they were just used to me saying yes to everything. I was a big people pleaser. I was like, yeah, sure. Yeah.I'll stay late. Yeah. It's 7. 00 PM. And I've been here since, 00 AM. Yeah, sure. Let's just do it. Or somebody would call it 10.they were like on board with that. They were like, Oh, we are available all the time. But like,now what I say is what's best for the doctors best for the practice best for the business owners also best for the practice.So like.when I was working that way, I didn't want to be there. So it's a difference.Whereas when I had my daughter, I didn't want to be there as much. I wanted to be there and enjoy the work that I did, but I didn't want to do it at the expense of my newborn. when you're working against yourself and you feel obligated, you're taking that in the treatment room with you to the patients.even if you're not saying it, even if you think Oh, I hide it really well. There's some level of annoyance or obligation that you have that does come off, whether you like to admit it or not, to be honest, nobody wants an overtired, overworked, stressed out doctor working on them.Right. So like, I always think if I was going to go get a nose job and the surgeon was like, if I heard what's going on in his head, he's like, I'm just so tired.I haven't slept. I'm like, so over being here, I'd be like, let's just not do the surgery, you know, so I think the same as my patients don't want me, they want me when I'm happy and I want to be there and I'm excited about their treatment, right?Even if they're not excited about it, I need to be happy and excited doing it. Right. So, What's best for you, it's going to be what's best for your patients and your staff. And I think over time, once I stuck to the boundaries and they got used to it, and I think that's why I said. You have to be really firm in your own mind about it because there's going to be pushback when you're implementing change.but when you're really sold on it, then it's easier for other people to get on board eventually. even the patients that originally were like, what, she can't see me at that time. Like, and I would to them, I'm so sorry. I just had a baby.And I do have to be home and, I'd love to see you, but, you know, it's not like I'm abandoning you. I just also need to put my priorities now is like my children. Michael: Interesting. So then how do you take yourself out of the negative spiral that you mentioned? Desiree: Yeah, that's a good question.I have learned a lot of really amazing life coaching tools and I think that's the way I'm able to do it. But to explain to others, you have to be really aware of what you're thinking and how you're feeling. And I think a lot of times we don't really know what we're thinking. We can tap into how we're feeling like we feel bad about something.And it's important to like pay attention to that feeling and then try to identify the thought that you're having that's creating that feeling because every feeling is created by a thought. So you have to just be like, okay, what am I thinking that's making me feel anxious or that's making me feel stressed or nervous or whatever it is.And then you have to like analyze, is that thought true or is it serving me? So sometimes we think things that may or may not be true, but like, it's actually no

How do effective dental billing practices shape the trust between patients and doctors? In this episode, Michael sits down with Dr. Ryan Hungate, a visionary orthodontist, to discuss the pivotal role transparency plays in the billing process within dental practices. Dr. Hungate challenges the opaque systems currently in use, drawing parallels to other industries where costs are known upfront, and highlights the absurdity of keeping patients in the dark. He passionately discusses how advancements in technology, like the innovative Eligibility Pro tool integrated within the Dentrix management system, streamline insurance verifications. By automating these processes, dental offices not only alleviate the administrative burden but also provide patients with clear and accurate cost estimates right away, fostering trust and enhancing the patient experience.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Hungate emphasizes the broader implications of transparent billing on treatment acceptance rates. By approaching financial discussions with clarity and empathy, and offering flexible financing options, practices can significantly improve patient outcomes. He underscores the importance of regular process reviews to ensure that dental practices are exceeding patient expectations. The takeaway is clear: adopting automated solutions isn't just a technological upgrade; it's an ethical commitment to providing transparent, affordable care.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The impact of transparent billing on patient trust and satisfaction.Technological advancements in dental practice management.How automated tools can streamline insurance verification.Methods for enhancing patient experience and treatment acceptance.The importance of regular assessments in optimizing dental operations.Strategies for presenting financing options to patients.Join us as we explore how transparency is crucial for building lasting patient relationships!‍‍Sponsors:‍‍Gusto: Dentist payroll for the modern practice. Gusto’s cloud-based software provides all the payroll and HR tools you need to run your dental practice efficiently. Having it all on one platform keeps our prices low, and makes your job so much easier. Enjoy best-in-class support, benefits like health coverage for your team, and more. Visit or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://gusto.com/tdm‍Guest: Dr. Ryan HungateBusiness Name: Henry Schein OneCheck out Ryan's Media:Website: henryscheinone.comWebsite: dentrix.comEligibility Essentials and Pro: learn.dentrixascend.com/dentrix-ascend-eligibility-proInstagram: instagram.com/rjhungateLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ryanjhungate‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Businesses/Services:TendDentologieCareCreditOpenTable‍Software:Dentrix AscendOpen Dental Eaglesoft‍People:Henry FordSteve JobsTaylor Swift‍Movies:Glengarry Glen Ross‍Insurance:MetLife‍Brands:Lexus‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.‍

‍Can a dental practice function on a NO-hygienist model? In this Monday Morning Episode, I sit down with Dr. Ron Schefdore, a trailblazing dentist who dared to challenge the conventional hygienist-dependent model and hasn't looked back since. He bravely shares his transformative journey, detailing the hurdles and victories of running a practice without hygienists. By prioritizing time with patients and refining diagnostic capabilities, Dr. Schefdore not only enhanced patient care but unveiled significant financial benefits. He offers a candid look into the operational dynamics of his practice, demonstrating how a focus on customer relationships can complement financial growth in the dental industry.Further into the conversation, Dr. Schefdore delves into practical strategies for managing the shift, particularly in scenarios involving the exit of hygienists. His methodical approach includes a gradual dropping of insurances to attract and maintain loyal and high-quality patients, while emphasizing the pivotal role of training and teamwork. Ron passionately challenges the traditional mindsets that dominate dental practices and invites you to do the same!What You'll Learn in This Episode:The compelling advantages of a no-hygienist dental practice model.Steps to overcoming operational challenges without hygienists.Financial benefits of spending more time on patient diagnostics.How to navigate network transitions for retaining top-tier patients.The critical role of training and teamwork in a restructured practice.Strategies to shift the mindset of traditional dental practices.Tune in now to explore the no-hygienist model with Dr. Ron Schefdore!‍‍Sponsors:‍CareStack: Modern, Secure, Cloud-Based Dental Software for Growing Your Practice! With state-of-the-art features including Online Appointments, Integrated Payments, Text Reminders and more. Click the link here for a special offer: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/carestack/‍You can reach out to Dr. Ron Schefdore here:Website: https://www.pharmaden.net/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/dentalcoachingsystems/‍Mentions and Links: ‍Education:Loma Linda University‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey Ron. So talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning? Ron: Don't worry about not finding a hygienist or having hygienist issues because I did a no hygienist model very successfully for decades. And I teach that to dentists now and how to do the same thing.Michael: Interesting. Okay. So if you can a little bit expand on, how did you first transition to the no hygienist model and what were the biggest operational challenges you faced? Ron: The first 17 years in practice, we built three practices. I owned the three buildings. Staff of 36 associates out of network financially.It was fantastic. It was like every dentist's dream, right? And what I realized after that long of managing people that that is not my forte drove me nuts somebody offered me some stupid money and I took it And thank God because it gave me an opportunity to grow up now being a dentist and say, you know, what do I really want to do?Why am I here? What excites me? And for me, it was spending more patient time, which a lot of doctors want to do. So I says, if I want to spend more doctor time, and I really want to help people with their perio, get them cure basically of perio, get them to look better, the things that excited me and the work I wanted to do, that means that I can't be chair hopping.Forget the chair hopping. I don't know a dentist that likes it. I mean, There is some weirdos that like it, but who the hell wants to keep jumping from chair to chair? This never excited me, never interested me. And not getting paid, they're all joining these cut rate insurances.Why you went to all the schools, spent all this money and you're an expert. Why are you doing that? I never bought into that and I had, a bunch of money. So I didn't really need to worry about the money when I opened up the second practice of a new hygienist model. we figured it out and very quickly in today's dollars, we got up to doing a million dollars and bringing home ham and I did that for a couple of.and I had six weeks vacation, sometimes a little bit more, took a month off. A lot of times, it was the best of all worlds. And so once I retired the second time, five years ago from clinical dentistry, I started getting on Facebook and just telling dentists, Hey, you guys could still have it all.It works out really good. You're having so many hygienist issues. You don't need those anymore. Hygienists are valuable. However, they're getting theirselves. Out of the market, they're pricing themselves out of the market. They have quite an attitude. So many of them think they're doctors and it's like, no, you're an employee.You might be a colleague, but you're still an employee. So let's not cross that line, it's just a weird dynamic. Now, I've met hygienists that are awesome. I'd hire them in a second. That's 5 or 10 percent of them that I've met. And this is a real problem with most dentists that I've talked to.Don't do a hygienist model. Get out of network or minimize the PPOs. Keep just the best ones. You only need 400 active patients. For this. That's it. If we all only had 400 active patients, there's plenty of patients to go around. All these dentists are fighting over. I need 1, 000. I need 2, 000. I need 3, 000 patients.That's crazy. No, you don't. You know, just, Just stop the nonsense already. So that's my advice. Michael: Okay. Okay. So then when you apply this or what systems or workflows did you have to adjust to maintain or improve your patient care without a hygienist? Ron: One column, see one patient at a time, minimize the amount of re cares that you do, and it's assisted hygiene.No, it would be stupid for a doctor to do hygiene all day long. Get that out of your brain. Oh, I'd rather do something else where I make more money. I could prove to you, any dentist can make six to seven hundred dollars an hour doing a re care visit. I've done this on dozens of practices.How many doctors are making 700 an hour without even breaking a sweat? I mean, That is about the easiest appointment you could do. Why not have some appointments during the day that are easy on us both emotionally and physically? There's nothing wrong with that. So, you know, 800 an hour and you get a 50 percent overhead, that's a million a year and bringing home 450, 000 pace.Why do we need a hygienist? Most dentists, if they made a half a million dollars a year take home, they would be very, very happy with that. I did that for decades, took six weeks off, and it was, dentistry's still hard, but you know, I only had three cross trained staff. So when you're doing hygiene, you minimize the amount of re care that you do, and you use a great cross trained assistant with you.That's all you need to do, and you fit those half hour appointments, it's half hour doctor time, half hour assistant time on the recare, that time that you spend with them is so much more fun, and it's relaxing in between all the hard work that we have to do, look, I don't have any physical problems, it didn't burn me out, it was so much easier than what dentists are doing.Please do this, please look at this. Michael: Gotcha. Yeah. if we are already, we have a hygienist our new patients are coming in, we're pretty bustling office, right? And then right now our hygienist left. We're listening to this episode and we're thinking, man I, I want to do this, but we just have too many patients at this time.would you recommend in that situation? Ron: That's when you strategically over 18 months get out of network and half the patients will fall off, which is fantastic because the ones that stay will stay pay and refer because they like your service, but you got to change the mentality of a PPO doctor to an out of network doctor.It's a big change and you need some coaching on it. If it's not me, get a successful other network doctor to talk to you on how to treat, how to present treatment to patients, how to make the appointments in your schedule. It's. It's way different than a PPO. You can't expect a network patients to get the care that they receive in a PPO setting.It's much different. So you gotta learn that. Michael: Okay, interesting. So then, how have the dentists you've taught responded to the model? Like What are the most common difficulties or misconceptions they have when transitioning? Ron: Number one, oh, it's going to cost me money to do a recare visit because I could make so much more money by going and doing blah, blah, blah, blah, blah.And that's their belief. And I say, well, why are you making half the income that I am? And I'm seeing half the patients. I had to change their belief system. And it's the common belief with dentistry that they miss. The biggest reason they missed that is because. Where do we make our money in dentistry?Every dentist misses this. It's the diagnosing. The PPO doctor spends two minutes diagnosing. Why would you do that when I could spend 30 with the patient? If I spent 30 minutes with the patient and you spend two, who's going to diagnose more work? Who's going to get more acceptance? Who's going to do bigger cases?Me, all day long. the thing that makes dentists the most income and the most fun is the diagnosing and helping the patient get through that process. They're not doing that. So when you get the hygienist out of that, and the doctor does more of that, it's great. Keep your hygienist. Keep her doing the scalings.Most of the office I see, 16 percent to 10 percent of their patients are going through scaling and replanting, or less. Where 50

What do the ins and outs of an emergency care practice partnership look like? In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Dr. Rasheeda Johnson, who shares her path from a passionate young dental enthusiast to the proud owner of Dentcare Now. Dr. Johnson reveals how her early experiences working in various practices laid the foundation for her career, eventually culminating in the creation of her innovative urgent care dental model. Open seven days a week, Dentcare Now stands out by offering emergency dental services even on most holidays, challenging the norms of traditional dental clinics. Through her story, Dr. Johnson illustrates the importance of having a strong vision, team alignment, and the courage to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.Facing the unexpected twists brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Johnson not only kept her practice afloat but successfully doubled its revenue by 2022 through strategic adaptations like adopting CareStack and enhancing patient accessibility with online tools. Her candid discussion on the importance of empathy and flexibility in staffing reveals key elements behind her practice's success. Dr. Johnson also offers practical advice for aspiring practice owners, emphasizing the critical nature of meticulous planning and communication, especially in business partnerships. Opting for new practice startups over acquisitions, she shares insights on establishing a distinct and effective operational model.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How Dr. Rasheeda Johnson built an innovative dental urgent care facility.The critical steps in planning and launching a successful dental practice.Importance of empathy, compassion, and flexibility in building a team.Techniques for doubling revenue through efficient systems and technology.Insights into the dynamics and benefits of business partnerships.Dr. Johnson's approach to new practice startups versus acquisitions.Tune in now to discover how Dr. Johnson revolutionized dental care with her unique business model!‍‍Sponsors:‍CareStack: Modern, Secure, Cloud-Based Dental Software for Growing Your Practice! With state-of-the-art features including Online Appointments, Integrated Payments, Text Reminders and more. Click the link here for a special offer: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/carestack/‍Guest: Dr. Rasheeda JohnsonPractice Name: Dentcare NowCheck out Rasheeda's Media:Website: https://www.dentcarenow.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetraveldentista/LinkedIn: Rasheeda Johnson‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Businesses/Brands:Henry ScheinMicrosoft‍Practice Management Software:EaglesoftOpen DentalDentrix AscendPlanet DDS‍Tools:Google Ads‍Insurance:Delta Dental‍‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.‍

How can a dedicated CEO day skyrocket your practice growth? In this episode, Dr. Rehan Shahid shares his wisdom on transitioning from merely being a dentist to embracing the role of a CEO. Discover how to "work less and earn more" by implementing efficient systems that streamline operations and enhance patient care. Dive into the nuances of building a robust practice, where patient feedback is the compass guiding success and training your staff is the keystone to maintaining excellence.Dr. Rehan opens up about his personal journey, taking you through the trials and triumphs of managing a practice from the ground up. Explore his strategies for time management during the challenging startup phase and understand the critical importance of dedicating time to strategic business planning. Through practical tips and heartfelt stories, this episode sheds light on creating sustainable growth in your practice by sharpening operational efficiency and elevating the patient experience. Whether you're a new practice owner or a seasoned dentist, Dr. Rehan's insights are your roadmap to redefining dental success.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Key strategies for shifting from a clinical role to a CEO mindset.How to work smarter with efficient systems for patient care.The art of effective staff training to ensure consistent quality.Importance of patient feedback in measuring practice success.Time management techniques for startup practice owners.Significance of scheduling CEO time for strategic planning.Steps to enhance operational flow and patient experience.Tune in now to discover how to elevate your practice's growth with Dr. Rehan's expert advice!‍‍Sponsors:Studio 8E8: Dentistry’s story-driven marketing agency. Traditional marketing repels. Story-first dental marketing attracts.We bring your story to life in a way that captivates and connects: https://s8e8.com/affiliates/tdm?utm_source=tdm&utm_medium=affiliate&wc_clear=true‍You can reach out to Dr. Rehan Shahid here:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrehanshahiddds/Email: drrehanshahiddds@gmail.com‍Mentions and Links: ‍Terms:LMS - Learning Management System‍People:Dr. Scott Leune‍Books:Buy Back Your Time‍Businesses:Breakaway‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey Rehan, talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning? Rehan: Hey, Michael, the best piece of advice I would give would be work less to make more money. Michael: Work less to make more money. Expand a little bit on that. What do you mean? Rehan: Yeah. So it's kind of, ironic when you actually play less dentist and play more the owner or the CEO of your company, you'd actually end up making more money.And a lot of people find that counterintuitive, but when you actually really dive deeper into that, it makes 100 percent sense. Michael: So for example, when you're doing your startup, you're opening up things like that, you kind of have to be on the clinical side, don't you? Rehan: Yeah. So you have to be on the clinical side, but in a startup example, someone has to be actually creating the systems that you do in your office.Figuring out your marketing campaigns, figuring out, Hey, if I want to do this amazing new patient experience. What does that look like from someone walking into the door to leaving the door? And that's not going to be your team, really, that's coming up with all of that because it's a startup.Like you have to, as an owner, create that. And so a lot of people make that mistake and they just jump right into dentistry. And that's good as a producer, but then you're not really playing the owner at that point. So you don't want to be your own associate. You want to be the CEO of your company. Michael: So that just Rehan: happens to do dentistry. Michael: Yeah. I like that. So then I know many practice owners, struggle with, streamlining their operational flow. So for you right now, what specific systems or processes have you implemented that have made the biggest impact do you measure their success?Rehan: there's a couple of ones that we've done, but one of the most important ones is what I call. Follow the patient. And that means from the moment the patient literally stops their car and walks in the building from that moment, all the way until they're leaving the door, really mapping that out.So when they're walking in, What are they looking at? So, Aka, what's on the front door? What's your signage look like when they open the door? What are they walk into? Do they just walk into a huge smelly dental office or is it nice aroma, a refreshment center on the side, etc. So, Really mapping out every single moment from that patient walking in to walking out has been a game changer for us.Michael: Okay. So follow the patient. Interesting. I like that a lot. And so then that operational flow that came from where, why did that come out to such specifics? Rehan: I think a long time ago and you might've heard of Scott Luna before. I took a course a long time ago when he was previously feeling with breakaway.He had a thing called the five senses, which was as a patient, what do you smell? What do you touch? What do you see? What do you feel? What do you hear? And all the five senses and just expanding that further. I took it on myself and just call it the follow the patient from walking into walking out.And when you started doing that, you really get to put yourself in the patient's shoes. AndIt allows you to find all the areas of improvement that you're not probably doing, but also really to focus on areas. So when a patient comes in, as a patient, I want someone to greet me and even tell me where the bathroom is or offer me some water, little things like that.Now that I'm mapping it out. Helps me provide the best experience, but then also allows me to create an operational flow for the team to be able to, do just that. Michael: So you created that system. And then how do you measure its success? How do you know? It's like, Hey guys, we're doing it.We're making it happen. And everything's going greater. Rehan: So there's something called NPS. Something score. I forget the word off the top of my head, but just random audits and then getting feedback from patients. So occasionally we'll get patient feedback and say, Hey, actually describethe flow.Hey, when you walked into walked out,what was the amazing things you saw? What was some areas of improvement? And then just asan owner. I like to just randomly walk in and not say anything, but every morning when I'm walking into the office, I'm pretending I'm a patient. So I get to kind of see that almost daily when I'm walking first thing in to see, their aroma?Am I seeing that, when they're greeting the patients? It's just really auditing it every single day and then allowing the patients to audit it at a frequency that you're comfortable with. Michael: Gotcha. Okay. That's interesting. So then when you're doing this training staff, and I know possibly the operational flow is like new patient calls, things like that.Right. And we know that's crucial. But how did you go about creating an effective, training program for a lot of these things? Especially like new patient calls or, yeah. The things like that, what key metrics do you track for that? Rehan: first is always just understanding the why behind it, meaning, hey, why do I even care about this?For example, a new patient call, why do I even care about how it goes? If the team's in alignment with why it's so important, then you get to actually, when they understand the why, talk about now how do we actually make it better or even improve it? Things that we then track is one, how's the quality of the call?So if you're using some sort of phone tracking vendoryou get to actually write that and you put a frequency on that where some former of leadership team or manager. Is listening to a call once a month, which is, you know, very, very easy to do, spot auditing calls where I have literally my family members call my office and just tell them, Hey, give me your feedback right after that.And I'll record that, date and time or they'll record it and then I'll be able to listen or have a leadership team member listen and say, Hey, here's X, Y, Z that they didn't do. And believe it or not, you can actually tell if a person is smiling through the phone. Just by their tone of voice.And so that's one of the things are great on is, Hey, is everyone smiling a few seconds right before they pick up the call? And then just, you know, there's certain parameters in the call that we look for. Like, Did you mention the patient's name? Which is the most beautiful word in the English language is what people say, patient's name.Did you repeat that name multiple times throughout the conversation? Did you offer. A scheduling opportunity. And then did you follow the two concepts of yes. Meaning instead of saying, when would you like to come in? Did you give them a, Hey, we have Monday at two and a Tuesday at four, meaning either way, it's a yes.So we're looking for certain key things that they're saying in that call, and if they're not allowing training opportunities to help get them there, members like that, Michael: I like that, man, real quick, how long have you been Rehan: I'm a COVID grad. It's a 2020. I have four offices and so I work clinically about half the week and then I focus on running the actual organization the other half the week.Michael: Wow. So since 2020. you graduated and then you opened up four offices. Rehan: Yeah, so 20, 20, I mean, a Covid grad, we got tipped off on our education, so I had to kind of learn a little bit on my own. But I was the very big, from dental school I was gung-ho on hey, I want to learn

‍Dive into the world of dental entrepreneurship with Dr. Eric J. Roman as he candidly shares the triumphs and trials of steering a $13 million dental group. In this episode, Dr. Roman reflects on his dynamic journey from being a chairside dentist to a strategic CEO. He recounts how regulatory challenges led to the company's dramatic collapse, shedding light on the crucial lessons learned. As he navigated these changes, Dr. Roman emphasizes the power of hiring and nurturing talented dentists for multi-location success and reveals the intense personal costs, including strains on his family life and mental health. His story is one of resilience and reevaluation, as he ultimately pivoted from business ownership to coaching, focusing on blending professional ambitions with personal fulfillment.You will gain practical wisdom on leadership and operational excellence within the dental field, as Dr. Roman shares actionable strategies derived from his experiences. He stresses the critical role of consistent communication and meaningful interactions in fostering a motivated workforce, encouraging practices such as weekly check-ins and quarterly reviews. Further, he delves into common operational hiccups like patient flow and billing automation, offering concrete advice for improvement. Ultimately, Dr. Roman advocates for creating a supportive workplace culture that champions holistic employee well-being, making this episode a treasure trove of insights for dentists and entrepreneurs alike.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How to transition from hands-on dentistry to effective business leadership.Strategies for identifying and nurturing high-quality dentists for practice expansion.The impact of business demands on personal life and finding a work-life balance.Importance of regular communication and check-ins with team members.Building a workplace culture that supports employee growth and wellbeing.Tackling common operational challenges in dental practices.The role of automation in streamlining billing processes.Tune in to uncover invaluable lessons on merging personal growth with professional accomplishments in the dental industry!‍‍Sponsors:‍‍Gusto: Dentist payroll for the modern practice. Gusto’s cloud-based software provides all the payroll and HR tools you need to run your dental practice efficiently. Having it all on one platform keeps our prices low, and makes your job so much easier. Enjoy best-in-class support, benefits like health coverage for your team, and more. Visit or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://gusto.com/tdm‍Guest: Dr. Eric J. RomanBusiness Name: 1LifeSystemCheck out Eric's Media:Personal Website: https://drericjroman.com/Business Website: https://1lifesystem.com/‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Terms:NPS (Net Promoter Score)KPIs (Key Performance Indicators)‍Groups/Communities:DEO (Dental Entrepreneur Organization)‍People:Jacob PuhlJeff BezosJosie Sewell‍Brands/Places:GAP‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.

Does the DIY approach lead to success in the dental startup world? This Monday Morning Episode launches into the realities of starting a dental practice with insights from Stephen Trutter, president of Ideal Practices. Throughout the conversation, Stephen dispels common myths surrounding DIY methodologies and unveils critical insights into building a successful practice from the ground up. He emphasizes the indispensable role of demographics, advising against relying solely on generic ratios when choosing a location. Instead, understanding competition, patient trends, and the unique characteristics of a community can create a foundation for lasting success.Real estate considerations and marketing strategies also take center stage in today's episode. Stephen cautions against the temptation of skimping on real estate investments and stresses the role of thorough representation in negotiations. Moreover, he discusses how DIY marketing efforts often fall short, advocating for a balanced strategy that incorporates professional guidance to maximize long-term ROI. As the episode wraps up, Stephen invites listeners to deepen their knowledge with additional resources like his two-day "Startup Practice Blueprint" course and his insightful book, "The Startup Dentist."What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why understanding demographics goes beyond simple ratios when choosing a location.The essential role of proper real estate representation for long-term success.Why DIY marketing may not suffice and how to execute a robust strategy.How Stephen's strategies balance short-term savings with long-term ROI.Resources to advance your journey with specialized industry education.Tune in now to discover if the DIY approach is right for your practice!‍‍Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:Website: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment/‍You can reach out to Stephen Trutter here:Website: https://idealpractices.com/Startup Practice Blueprint Course: http://www.startuppracticeblueprint.com/Stephen's Book - The Startup Dentist: http://www.thestartupdentistbook.com/‍Mentions and Links: ‍Groups/Communities:Dental Society‍People:LeBron JamesMichael JordanElon Musk‍Publications:Oxford Dictionary‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey, Steven. So talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning. Stephen: The one piece of advice I give you, Michael, is DIY practices are cheaper. There you go. DIY do it yourself. It's going to be cheaper.And I know that feels awkward because. Wait a minute. Like, I am the owner of ideal practices. And if most people don't know who we are, like we are one of the largest, if not the largest startup dental consulting in the country. What I'm saying is you don't need me. You don't need anybody.You can do a DIY practice. It can be cheaper. Now I did look this up this morning. You and I were laughing a few minutes ago in the Oxford dictionary the Google Oxford dictionary, whatever there is one cheaper means inexpensive because of inferior quality. So can you build a cheaper practice on your own?Sure. I think the challenge is that's kind of the undercurrent that's, existing today. So can you do it yourself? Absolutely. Can it be cheaper? Depends on if that's what your goal is and depends on if that's who you want to be in the community or are used to be known as that cheap dentist on the corner.most people when they ask ideal practices, there's like 3 things that are on most associates mind. There's these 3 areas of. Their startup that they're most concerned about and it's demographics. It's real estate and marketing. These are three hot buttons Here's what you need. You need space money and chairs. There is a practice you can start a practice tomorrow with space money and chairs, but there's a lot more layers that are there when I talk about these three layers of demographics real estate marketing These are probably the three biggest Components or probably the mosthot buttons that mostassociates think about now funny story.I was just in one of the facebook's groups And doctor was asking about some questions about buying a practice he said, Hey, this thing is going to fall through. What do you think? And this and I responded and I gota DM from I'll call him Dr Jake Dr Jake said, Hey, that deal is going to fall through.I was looking to do a startup. Can you help me? I contacted this company that does demographics and they said, basically, just best ratios are the best thing to go for. But that's what everybody says. Everyone thinks that demographics is about finding the best ratios. thing is, you could get a demographics report, find great ratios, and the best ratios are going to be somewhere maybe you don't want to be.They could be rural areas. a lot of people say, go for, if you're a general dentist, a 3, 001 ratio. So that means 3, 000 patients for every one provider. of the almost 1, 000 startup practices I've been a part of, maybe less than half have attained that great industry standard, yet we have highly successful practices, million dollar practices in 12 months.So you got to look beyond the ratios when it comes to the demographics. You got to look at things like, who is that competition? Is that my competition? How many other startups are in that marketplace? What are the travel patterns within the area? Here's a big one. Are my patients actually there? If you just chase a ratio, folks, because somebody on some forum said, chase ratios, then you're going to find yourself in an area that you don't love.And I've seen a couple of posts even recently this week where doctor said I'm here. I'm making great money It's an underserved area, but my marriage is taking a toll My marriage is suffering because my wife doesn't want to be here. My kids don't want to be here. So If you just want to open your doors and find some high ratios, you can go do that, but it may not be the best area for you, for your vision, or not even have the patience there that you want to serve.Michael: So that's number one. Demographics is the big part. And I've seen that so many times where they're like, hey, the demographics don't make sense. But this is, I love this town. Like I, this is where I grew up. This is what I want to do. Yeah. So they go against the forum, say, right. so there's a lot more to it. Stephen: Yeah. And sometimes the advice is I see people out there say go rural. Not everybody wants to be in the middle of. Central Illinois, by the way, that's where I grew up. Like it's great. That's home. I'm surrounded by windmills and, cornfields and bean fields.Is it underserved? Yes. But if that's not where you want to be and that's not where you want to grow up, or maybe that's even not the patient base you want to go for, then don't do that. So be aware when people say go find high ratios. It may not be the best place for you or don't skip over demographics.A lot of DIY doctors, what they do, they chase the second big thing. They chase real estate So the second big topic is real estate. Most people skip demographics because they think it's expensive. Cheaper save money. Don't. Hold demographics, just go chase real estate. All right, real estate, big signs and visibility.What most people say is, you'll be successful if you find the space with big signs and visibility. But, you could overpay for that real estate. Sometimes a DIY means, I'm gonna go negotiate it myself.Unless you have transacted hundreds of commercial real estate associate dentist, don't do it because you may think you're going to get cheaper because someone told you somewhere That the landlord won't have to pay for the commission for your agent if you negotiated it yourself.No, what the landlord did was take that money that they were going to pay somebody that's going to represent you and slide it back in their pocket. Because they're going to save that money themselves as opposed to saving an agent. don't chase the big signs when it comes to real estate. The other big thing on real estate is Ownership so many people i've had clients that have been at dental society meetings one of our clients up in connecticut He said want to own and I said, okay cool.You want to own real estate? Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I just want to own. Well, why well, I was at a meeting and this doctor told me I should own Said, oh, okay. Why? She said, I owned my real estate and I bought it 12 years ago. What happened 12 years ago is irrelevant to that doctor today and what this doctor's looking for.So I think real estate. you're chasing the big signs of visibility, you may actually, instead of being less expensive, you may end up saying, Oh, I'm not properly represented. maybe I don't have an attorney. Okay. You can save money. Maybe negotiate with an agent, but agents are paid to transact.And the other part about this is at the end of your lease, let's say you end up leasing space. What most people don't understand is If you skimp on things like legal representation or you hire an attorney that says charge a flat fee for a lease negotiations, that attorney is built in only a certain amount of hours to negotiate that.Once they hit that mark, they're going to say, good, here's your lease. It's good enough. Good enough may be a really big death sentence for your practice 10 or 15 or 20 years from today. Because one of the biggest sticking points that I see with acquisitions is this. Everybody agrees to the deal. one doctor is going to buy another doctor's practice But there's a lease problem.The lease is not transferable. The landlord won't transfer the lease. So folks, DIY your practice. Find out what happens 10 or 15 years from today. What you save

Imagine a dental practice where technology seamlessly enhances patient care and optimizes administrative processes. In this enlightening episode, Dr. Kathryn Alderman shares her hands-on experience with integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into her practice. From clinical applications and administrative tasks to strategic business development, AI is reshaping how dentists manage their day-to-day operations. Dr. Alderman discusses how AI stands as a powerful ally for dental teams, confronting common industry challenges such as labor shortages and communication barriers, and offering innovative solutions through tools developed alongside MIT’s AI programs.Dr. Alderman provides practical insights into AI's role in modern dentistry, emphasizing the technology's potential to streamline repetitive tasks like patient communication and diagnostics. You will hear firsthand about the transformative impact of AI on tasks like x-ray diagnostics, ensuring greater accuracy and consistency. However, the path to embracing AI is not without hurdles. Dr. Alderman openly talks about overcoming resistance from staff wary of job displacement, sharing strategies for easing transitions by starting with manageable pilot projects. The episode wraps up with Dr. Alderman's advice for any dental practice keen on staying competitive: the future belongs to those who courageously integrate AI into their everyday workings.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The transformative role of AI in dental practice management.How AI enhances efficiency in patient communication and diagnostics.Strategies for overcoming staff resistance to AI adoption.Examples of AI tools like ChatGPT in administrative tasks.Insights into leveraging AI for superior patient engagement.Tune in to discover how AI can revolutionize your practice and set you ahead for the future!‍‍Guest: Dr. Kathryn AldermanBusiness Name: Intelligent Care AllianceCheck out Kathryn's Media:Website: https://intelligentcarealliance.com/Email: intelligentcarealliance@gmail.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkathrynalderman/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkathrynalderman/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IntelligentAllianceGlobal‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Kathryn's Podcast Episodes:‍MMM [STARTUPS] SOME OF THE BEST WAYS TO HAVE A SCHEDULE FULL OF NEW PATIENTS BEFORE OPENING YOUR DOORS – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCAST371: DR. KATHRYN ALDERMAN | NEBRASKA FAMILY DENTISTRY – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCASTMMM [GOOGLE ADS] EFFECTIVELY COMMUNICATING YOUR VALUE PROPOSITION TO CONVERT NEW PATIENTS – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCASTMMM [CHATGPT] HARNESSING THE POWER OF AI IN YOUR DAILY TASKS FOR A MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY PRACTICE – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCASTWHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO HAVE A SCHEDULE FULL OF NEW PATIENTS FOR MY NEW START-UP?‍AI Tools:PearlOverjetChatGPTClaudeGeminiMeta AI‍Software/Tools:ExcelGoogle BusinessWhatsAppQuickBooks‍Products:Invisalign‍Education:MIT‍Dental Insurance:Aetna‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.‍

Imagine enjoying the freedom to focus on visionary leadership while your business runs like a well-oiled machine. This Monday Morning Episode dives deep into the art of systemization in business operations, partnering with systems expert David Jenyns to reveal transformative strategies that liberate business owners and team members from monotonous daily tasks. Discover insights behind legendary organizations like McDonald's and Netflix, as David sheds light on the benefits of implementing documented processes. This episode not only highlights how these processes lead to career growth, job security, and streamlined workflows but also tackles the common hurdle of team resistance, providing actionable advice on engaging early adopters and ensuring positive introductions to new systems.David emphasizes the importance of clear communication and tailored processes that strike the ideal balance between systemization and empowerment. He discusses how business owners can remove non-compliance excuses, set clear expectations, and build a team of systems-driven individuals, paving the way for sustainable success. Tune in to learn how to transform your business into a systemized powerhouse, where creativity and structure coexist seamlessly, all thanks to tried-and-true methodologies.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Benefits of documented processes for career growth.Strategies for overcoming team resistance to new systems.How clear communication and setting expectations lead to smoother workflows.Techniques to remove excuses for non-compliance.The impact of surrounding yourself with systems-driven individuals.How renowned companies like McDonald's and Netflix utilize effective systemization.Tune in now to transform your business with expert strategies for systemization!‍‍You can reach out to David Jenyns here:Website: https://www.systemology.com/‍Mentions and Links: ‍Accounting Software:MYOB‍Brands:McDonald'sNetflix‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey Dave, so talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning? David: When it comes to stepping out of the day to day operations as a business owner, you've got to capture your systems and your processes. And most importantly, you've got to get your team on board. And I feel like that's probably the biggest challenge for a lot of business owners.They try to systemize, they try it for a little bit, maybe one team member follows, maybe most of them don't, and then before they know it, everybody's forgotten about it, and it's just back to the way that things have always been. And it really, this one piece of advice I've got centers around how do you get your team on board?How do you get your team to follow process? And even. resistant team members. How do you get them to go, Oh, this is how we do things here. And key here is the way in which it's introduced to your team. A lot of business owners, when they go, Oh, we're going to start documenting our process. And we're going to have a particular way of doing things.The team member in their brain, they start to think, Should I be worried about my job? Is he trying to document what I'm doing so that he can replace me? Is he going to take my job offshore? I kind of like having this little black box where no one really knows what I'm doing because. It creates some level of job security for me.I don't want to capture my process and have that available and accessible for everybody else. So that's some of the things that go on in their head and that's what can make them resistant and then fall back to the ways that they may have done things in the past or not even want to share what it is that they're doing.So the bit of advice and the secret here is to really think about How it's going to benefit the team member. rather than just introducing it where the team thinks, Oh, the business owner is doing this to replace me, or maybe they want to go on a holiday. And, don't want to support that.Show them how, hang on, if you document your process or capture the way that you're doing things, this can help you move up in our organization because, by documenting process, we could delegate down to some newer team members. And that doesn't make you less valuable. It makes you more valuable because now you can work on higher value tasks.You can start to work your way up and work on these higher value activities. That's might appeal to some people. For other people, you might need to say, Hey, when you go on holiday and you tell me you want two weeks off and I say fine, but then I call you up every second day to go, Oh, where's that client's file up to?Oh, is that job up to? Do you remember where we saved that thing? And I'm on the phone calling you every second to try and find out what's going on. By documenting our process, it means that other people can step in and do some of those tasks, and the team can keep things moving while you're on leave, so when you come back, those things are done, and you can have a proper, restful holiday.So that might appeal to someone else, or, maybe it's, hey, there are going to be times when you're going to need time off for family. So, having process and the enable systems just means that people can step in and keep things moving. And that makes your job more secure and this business more secure.So again, a lot of it has to do with how you frame it and how you let them know this is going to benefit their situation. That'll dramatically increase the adoption of a systems culture. Michael: Gotcha. Okay. So then, David, can you share specific communication strategies you've used to address this type of resistance?How do you ensure the message is understood and embraced by team members? David: Well, The first thing to do and it's a little bit counterintuitive, is you actually don't think about who's going to resist it up front. Think about who's going to support this initiative. So when you first introduce the topic and you say, Hey, we're going to look to build a systems culture and want to capture some different processes.Hey, I've got, this book or this podcast that I want to share with you, just that talks a little bit about what we're doing and then see who resonates with it, who listens to it, who gets it and say, Hey I'm looking for some people who want to help me drive this forward. Who sticks their hand up.And then start off by leaning into them. So that's kind of step number one. You start to empower them, you get the first set of systems down and then you start to celebrate system wins. when a team member does something, you go, Hey, we just documented this new process. Jenny did an awesome job over here.Hey, Sarah, we normally have this frustration when someone goes on leave, but Sarah documented this process. And then we had John step in and do the task. Hey, Sarah, you're awesome. And you shine a spotlight on that. Maybe you give out a monthly most valued player award to the person who really embraces this idea.that's the best place to start because then you start to go, Hey, we're going to celebrate and showcase, and this is what we want more of. So that's the first step. And then you start to watch out for the. resistant team members. Now, the best thing that you can do for them is firstly lead by example, and then by shining a light on the people that are, doing it.And then you want to give those team members every opportunity to jump on board because new things you have to figure it out. And some people are going to embrace change more than others. And you try and support them. And then you need to really think about every team member and their situation.And the real key is a lot of times team members, their default excuses. Yeah, but I didn't know how, or I didn't know that was expected of me. So one of the first things that you need to do is. To remove that. So by capturing a system and a process, you're then saying, Hey, well, we have a way of doing things.You want to make sure that's never more than one click away from when they actually are doing the task. So if it's, setting up something in the dental practice, we'll have a QR code that they scan on their phone. Maybe it's on the printer or something, and it jumps to the. System or the process after scanning that QR code, or maybe it's setting up the dental practice in the morning and here's the 10 point checklist that needs to be done.It's got to be so obvious. So front and center. So you can remove that. And then the conversation can start to change. Okay, you did know we've got a process. It's listed out here. My expectation is that you follow the process. I don't care if you've got it open or not, if you're doing it right, but since you don't yet know the process, you've got to have it open, but once you get it right, then fine.You don't have to have it open every single time, but at the start, this is my expectation. And that's kind of just the start of how you address it. You've got to remove excuses. Michael: so then what consequences do you implement for team members who continually resist systems? Even though you've, done these systems, you've,Remove the excuses or try to, have you found incentives to be effective in encouraging this type of adherence? David: you can, like I said, have something like the MVP where you might reward the system wins and shine a spotlight. You can even link it towards KPIs either the generation or the following of process.can do a few things like that. I think the reality is. A lot of business owners don't realize up front how important it is to have someone who follows process. And it's not something that they've, incorporated into their recruitment process. Once you get this moving forward, it actually

‍Have you ever considered how a single moment of clarity can transform your entire entrepreneurial journey? In this revealing episode, we have Vivek Kinra back on the show to delve into the highs and lows of his unique entrepreneurial path. Vivek opens up about the conception and growth of PPO Profits, detailing his approach to revolutionize practice profitability and navigate through contract restructuring. A true turning point came with the mounting stress from his multiple roles, culminating in a profound mental breakdown in March 2023, which forced him to re-evaluate his priorities. By candidly sharing his struggle with mental health, Vivek emphasizes the necessity of mental well-being in sustaining not just a business, but a balanced life.The discussion takes a transformative turn as Vivek explains his rationale for selling PPO Profits to Benco, focusing on ethical considerations, employee welfare, and ensuring a robust future for his team. Reflecting on his journey, he highlights lessons of trust, competence, and the importance of leading with integrity, both in business and personal life. This ethos paved the way for his company, Verrific, where Vivek continues to uphold the principles of stress-free management and ethical standards. Tune in to learn about his personal evolution towards a life that balances between professional success with personal peace, along with his insights on maintaining high ethical standards to enhance employee well-being and client trust.What You'll Learn in This Episode:What Vivek learned along his entrepreneurial journey.The importance of balancing mental health with entrepreneurial responsibilities.Ethical considerations in selecting business partnerships and buyers.Developing a management style that prioritizes honesty and integrity.Techniques for stress management and maintaining a peaceful work environment.The benefits of fostering a supportive and trustworthy team dynamic.Join us for an insightful journey into entrepreneurship and mental well-being—listen now and discover how integrity leads to both personal and professional success!‍‍Sponsors:‍CareStack: Modern, Secure, Cloud-Based Dental Software for Growing Your Practice! With state-of-the-art features including Online Appointments, Integrated Payments, Text Reminders and more. Click the link here for a special offer: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/carestack/‍Guest: Vivek KinraBusiness Name: VerrificCheck out Vivek's Media:Website: https://www.verrific.biz/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vkinra‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Vivek's Podcast Episodes:309: VIVEK KINRA | SOMETIMES... TOO MANY CUSTOMERS IS NOT A GOOD PROBLEM TO HAVE – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCASTMMM [INSURANCE] TREATMENT PLANNING THE RIGHT WAY & MAXIMIZING INSURANCE COMPANY REIMBURSEMENTS – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCASTMMM [INSURANCE] THE MOST DENIED INSURANCE PROCEDURES & HOW TO WORK AROUND THEIR GUIDELINES TO BECOME APPROVED – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCASTMMM [MEMBERSHIP PLANS] THE 3 MOST SIMPLE & EFFECTIVE TYPES OF IN-HOUSE MEMBERSHIP PLANS – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCAST145: VIVEK KINRA | FRIENDS DON'T LET FRIENDS HAVE BAD FEES – THE DENTAL MARKETER PODCAST‍Groups/Communities:The Making of a Dental Startup‍Businesses/Brands:PPO ProfitsBencoMetLife‍Terms:LOI - Letter of IntentGABA‍Books:Dental Coding with Confidence‍People:Elon MuskChuck and Rick Cohen - BencoJeff BezosAlex Hormozi‍Movies:3 Idiots‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.

Is sobriety an all-or-nothing proposition in dentistry? In today's Monday Morning Episode, we've brought on Laura Nelson to uncover the nuanced conversation around alcohol use in the dental industry. Laura challenges the common perception that only those classified as "alcoholics" need to consider sobriety. Through personal insights, she stresses the importance of making conscious, sober decisions and explains how even social drinking can impact professional performance and practice culture. Dive deep into the pressures dentists face that often push them towards alcohol, and learn why open conversations about this topic need to happen more frequently and with less stigma.As the discussion unfolds, Laura passionately advocates for a supportive work environment, highlighting how unaddressed stress can erode a team's ability to thrive. She sheds light on the critical role leadership plays in maintaining mental well-being by demonstrating vulnerability. By setting the stage for honest, stigma-free dialogues, leaders can foster a space that encourages healthier lifestyle choices. The episode wraps up with actionable insights, including how individuals can connect with Laura and her community at Sober Life Rocks, to access peer support and resources for alcohol-related challenges.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Understanding the spectrum of alcohol use beyond alcoholism.The impact of alcohol use on dental practice culture and performance.How to cultivate a supportive environment for discussing mental health.The role of leadership vulnerability in promoting workplace well-being.Strategies for addressing stress and burnout in the dental industry.Ways to engage with communities focused on sober living.Tune in to uncover empowering perspectives that can redefine your approach to sobriety and well-being in dentistry!‍‍Sponsors:‍CareStack: Modern, Secure, Cloud-Based Dental Software for Growing Your Practice! With state-of-the-art features including Online Appointments, Integrated Payments, Text Reminders and more. Click the link here for a special offer: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/carestack/‍You can reach out to Laura Nelson here:Website: https://soberliferocks.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soberliferocksprofessionalsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberliferocksdental/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@soberliferocks‍Mentions and Links: ‍People:Dr. Brett Kessler‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey, Laura. So talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning. Laura: You don't have to be an alcoholic to stop drinking. Michael: Interesting. Can you expand a little bit more on that? Laura: Yes, for sure. I was one who was the typical casual drinker through my life, conferences, events, mommy wine culture, growing up, the whole thing.And couldn't see life without alcohol because I thought to stop drinking, first of all, I wouldn't have fun. Second of all, I had to hit rock bottom. Like I would, didn't consider myself an alcoholic. And I think there's a lot of people who are in that same space that I was in. But I wasn't educated in this area, and so it's important for me to talk about this because I want to make a difference in dental because there's a lot of people who choose not to drink, who feel the pressure to drink alcohol, and don't realize that you can choose not to drink, and it's okay.We can normalize sober choices in our industry. So. Alcoholism is not a yes or no. it's a spectrum. And if we understand wherever you are on the spectrum, it's your decision, what you want to do with your life and it's everybody else's decision. And we need to stop peer pressuring each other into the need to drink alcohol.Michael: Interesting. So on the spectrum here, where do you kind of see most in the industry as far as when it comes to like events and things like that? Laura: Sure. Yeah. So, Alcohol use disorder, if you've ever drank for the wrong reason, drank too much, or woke up in the morning and regretted drinking, you are on the spectrum, because alcohol is an addictive substance and it doesn't usually serve us well.long term, right? So if you ever regretted drinking at any point or drink for the wrong reason, you're on the spectrum. Now, where is everybody in our industry all over? But the thing about alcohol is it is the number one self prescribed way to celebrate or numb feelings or emotions.And it is the most standardized use of drugs that we use our life. we celebrate with wine, we go out for champagne, we have beer tours, we go on wine tours, we go to conferences, it's all about alcohol. So it's so prevalent in our life that when somebody is questioning their use their,relationship with alcohol, or they're at events and they feel the pressure to drink, that's where it goes too far in the spectrum where we're really pushing in on each other.So, In our industry specifically we have an issue in the sense that we have lots of people who are licensed professionals who worry about their license who Have a lot of stress in their lives running practices and alcohol is where we tend to lean When we're dealing with the hard stuff and so, you know, I would say for that regard.There's probably a few who are secretly having the discussion in their head, based off of what they have in their life Michael: What psychological barriers do you think prevent? Practice owners or dentists from admitting to or seeking help alcohol use as a coping mechanism And how can leaders effectively dismantle those barriers?Laura: Yeah So the number one reason isas a society for a long time, it's been something that you hide if you have concerns about your relationship with an addictive substance, with alcohol specifically, in the past, there was a stigma around if you were in recoveryit was real, but it's not like that anymore, Overcoming an addiction, especially with alcohol, it is a personal battle that many people do privately, and we're already shaming ourselves enough when you are like, I don't understand why other people can drink and don't have a problem, but I do, and it's already something you're beating yourself up about.And then as a society and in our industry and with people in our circle. there's the shame of like, what are people going to think about me? What are people going to question? and so it's just, prevalent and everywhere. it's such a personal decision and conversation and a lot has to do with the shame around it and the fear.Michael: Okay. So then when it comes to that, especially when it comes to the burnout and stress and your experience, how does unaddressed stress and burnout. Silently erode the culture and performance of a practice over time. Laura: Oh, the fact that we can and we do go to other ways to forget about or numb the bad stuff Doesn't have us deal with the actual issue at hand. So stress depression suicidal thoughts Yeah. you know, All of the things that we deal with as humans, because at the end of the day, whether you're a dentist, a hygienist or a receptionist, you're human. And if we are using a substance to numb the pain, what ultimately happens is we're not dealing with the true issue and we're not dealing with the real emotion.And because we're numbing the pain with a substance that is addictive. Everybody will get addicted to alcohol at one point or another. When do you get addicted? Depends on so many variables. But when we know that we're leaning in to using the alcohol for the wrong reason and not actually dealing with the true stuff going on, that's when it becomes a problem.Michael: What would be using alcohol for the right reason then? Laura: well, To be honest I could sit on a soapbox now and tell you how alcohol is not good for us, but there are people who are in their head right now, they're like, Oh gosh Laura's, reading my mind, right?Having a glass of champagne to celebrate a wedding, you know, having a one glass of wine with a friend, once in a while, alcohol is it's been in our society forever. It's not going away. But if you start with one and now you're, instead of one glass of wine, you're a bottle of wine.Instead of one glass of champagne, you did drinks before you went to the wedding and at the wedding, and then you're post drinking, like there's lots of, we all have stories, right? But research shows the first 20 minutes of alcohol is fun. The first 20 minutes of alcohol, you have the endorphins, you have the dopamine.It's great. But then your body suffers for the next two to three hours. if you're drinking for the 20 minutes and you recognize the next two to three hours and your body is recovering from every glass of alcohol that you have, right? So I could talk about where alcohol is not actually serving you.But if you're using it to numb the pain, if you're using it to get away from true emotions, then that's where I would question why you're drinking the alcohol. Michael: Yeah. Cause I've always understood it in the sense of nutrition, right? Protein is, one gram is four carbs. One gram is four fats.One gram is nine calories, right? But alcohol, one gram is seven and our body doesn't utilize it, right? It doesn't need it for any building blocks or anything like that. So we're just literally poisoning our body, uh, to the sense of that But now we're talking about the psychological part and mental health part, which is increasingly important.Laura: Now, when it comes to this, What are the long term psychological and cultural implications, maybe in a practice that ignores mental health issues, particularly around burnout and depression? Alcohol use. not to get extreme, but we know suicide is a significant issue in our industry.Depression is a significant issue

Unlock the secrets to a beautiful smile while learning from one of the most innovative minds in cosmetic dentistry today. In this enlightening episode, I'm in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Korinne Grieger, a functionally driven cosmetic dentist whose pioneering approach is transforming the field. Korinne shares her journey, revealing how advanced tools like biometrics, JBA, and T-Scan enhance her ability to precisely diagnose and treat dental issues. By ensuring a stable bite before any restorative work, she provides long-lasting and superior care. This episode explores how Korinne's blend of scientific rigor and creativity sets her apart in providing exceptional dental care.Dive deeper as Dr. Grieger discusses her adept use of social media to educate and connect with her patient community. Her approachable style and concise videos about dental procedures not only build trust but also attract patients who value transparency and expertise. Korinne also unveils the inner workings of her Scottsdale practice, focusing on her strategy of fostering a team full of critical thinkers and independent workers. Her management philosophy creates a nurturing environment where both patients and staff can thrive. With personal anecdotes, Korinne shares her growth in empathic patient communication and highlights the importance of understanding diverse perspectives.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How Dr. Korinne Grieger is revolutionizing cosmetic dentistry with advanced techniques.The importance of establishing a stable bite before cosmetic work.Effective dental marketing strategies using social media.Insights into building a smart, autonomous dental team.The role of effective communication in enhancing patient relationships.An overview of team dynamics and practice management at KORsmiles.Personal anecdotes and lessons in sleep dentistry and patient care.Listen now to discover how cutting-edge dental artistry and science create lasting smiles!‍‍Sponsors:‍‍Gusto: Dentist payroll for the modern practice. Gusto’s cloud-based software provides all the payroll and HR tools you need to run your dental practice efficiently. Having it all on one platform keeps our prices low, and makes your job so much easier. Enjoy best-in-class support, benefits like health coverage for your team, and more. Visit or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://gusto.com/tdm‍Guest: Dr. Korinne GriegerPractice Name: KORsmiles DentalCheck out Korinne's Media:Website: https://www.korsmiles.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@korsmilesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/korsmilesdental/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/korsmilesYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KorsmilesScottsdale‍Other Mentions and Links:‍Terms:JBA - Joint Vibration Analysis‍Equipment/Brands:T-ScaniTeroInvisalign‍Continuing Education:Clinical Mastery SeriesSpear Education‍Tools/Resources:IndeedCraigslist‍TV:Michael Scott - The Office‍Host: Michael Arias‍Website: The Dental Marketer Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Please don't forget to share with us on Instagram when you are listening to the podcast AND if you are really wanting to show us love, then please leave a 5 star review on iTunes! [Click here to leave a review on iTunes]‍p.s. Some links are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at no additional cost to you. Please understand that we have experience with these products/ company, and I recommend them because they are helpful and useful, not because of the small commissions we make if you decide to buy something. Please do not spend any money unless you feel you need them or that they will help you with your goals.‍‍

Is your dental practice running smoothly without your constant supervision? In this enlightening episode, we delve into the heart of effective leadership with Dr. Sarah Blair, a seasoned expert in guiding dental practice owners toward efficient and engaged management. Dr. Blair candidly discusses the pitfalls many leaders encounter when they aren't actively involved with their teams, especially when it comes to key responsibilities like patient interactions over the phone. Through her insights, you'll discover how attentive leadership can turn potential lost opportunities into lasting patient relationships.Dr. Blair also shines a light on the often-overlooked back-office inefficiencies, using supply management as a prime example. Drawing from years of experience, she shares practical strategies to bolster team performance by focusing on comprehensive training, streamlined systems, and the critical importance of setting clear expectations. As the episode wraps up, Dr. Blair invites listeners to connect with her for more tailored advice, ensuring that leadership gains aren't just theoretical but actively applied to foster a thriving dental practice.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The impact of active leadership on team performance and patient engagement.Strategies to enhance patient communication over the phone.Common back-office inefficiencies and how to address them.Importance of clear expectations and consistent training for team effectiveness.How to transform practice management with effective systems and leadership.Tune in now to unlock revelations that will transform your dental practice's leadership dynamics!‍‍Sponsors:‍‍Oryx: All-In-One Cloud-Based Dental Software Created by Dentists for Dentists. Patient engagement, clinical, and practice management software that helps your dental practice grow without compromise. Click or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/oryx/‍You can reach out to Dr. Sarah Blair here:Website: https://www.indiepractices.com/Sarah's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarah.blair.961993Indie Practices Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IndiePracticesTop 10 Team Management Solutions: https://www.indiepractices.com/digital-resources‍If you want your questions answered on Monday Morning Episodes, ask me on these platforms:My Newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/The Dental Marketer Society Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2031814726927041‍Episode Transcript (Auto-Generated - Please Excuse Errors)‍Michael: Hey, Sarah, so talk to us. What's one piece of advice you can give us this Monday morning. Sarah: All right. So my piece of advice is to be aware that the work that your team is doing when you're not around probably isn't as good as you think it is. That's a little controversial to hear. It's not what everyone wants to Michael: So, well, First let me clarify a few things. first by not around. I don't mean you're on vacation. I mean that you're just not present. So it means you're busy, you're distracted, you're not paying attention. that's what I mean by when you're not around. And I also want to clarify that this is not anti team by any means.Sarah: We are super pro team. We love teams. it's just that there, is a disconnect between what the leader should be doing and should be providing and what the team is actually receiving. So I've been a team member myself. I was a dental assistant. I worked at the front desk. So again, we're super pro team.This is more of a leadership concept here. Michael: Okay. Gotcha. So is it more in the sense of like, Hey, we're doing what we're supposed to be doing clinical work, right? Talking to the patients, being with patients, but then we don't know, really know what the front office is doing. They're doing busy work, but not productive work.Sarah: That's a great way to put it. Yeah, the truth is that your team is almost certainly underperforming some areas if you're not engaged managing. So as coaches, we get to see and hear this a lot. owners don't always want to hear this news, but we get to look at the metrics and we get to listen to the phone calls and when we look at these data points, we can see that the team is not performing as well as The way that the practice owner has been hoping or the way that they have always believed that their team is performing.Michael: So why does this happen? Is it from the beginning, from the get go, is it happening like that? Or is it more like they fall into a lull and now they're not performing as good, but they figured a way to, make it look like you are. Sarah: We actually have the top 10 list of all of these key areas.The ways that teams typically underperform, and the ways to address it. And we're going to have that on our Facebook page. It'll also be on our website and under the resource library. So we probably wouldn't get through all 10 of those today. And like you said, some of them do apply early on. Some of them can apply to long term team members that have maybe started out super energetic and fired up and things have drifted off into a different place at this point.So basically as leaders. We're failing our teams if we don't provide guidance, AKA training and systems, clarify expectations, monitor the results and hold the team accountable. So as we like to say inspect what you expect. Michael: Okay. So then What would you say are the most common that you've seen time and time again?Sarah: primary one that I would say is on the phones. So we're seeing, really common things happening on the phones that owners are totally unaware of. They're trusting and hoping that their teams are doing a great job. In fact, sometimes they genuinely. Believe that their team is doing a great job and it can be really frustrating and disappointing for them when they find out that's not the case.So I would say phones and what's happening on the telephones is One of the biggest areas, and luckily for us as coaches, one of the areas that we're able to document and observe the most closely is the way, especially incoming new patient phone calls are handled Michael: So then when you're listening into these phone calls, where do you see them drop the ball the most?yeah, so the most common theme is just Reactively answering the first question of course is usually do you take my insurance or how much does this cost? And so they just go directly into the nuts and bolts of answering that question without building any connection building trust without building value for the practice and talking up the doctor in the practice and why you're going to love it here.Sarah: They go right into the nuts and bolts of complicated insurance plan, something like that. So not taking control of that phone call right from the beginning is where we see team members fall off the tracks most often for this. And again, this is a, leadership issue because the team members don't have the training, the systems in place.to have those successful conversations with new patient callers to get them into the schedule. So it's not a team problem. It's a doctor problem. Michael: Providing the guidance. Could you Sarah give us like a script to that reaction? So like let's just say it's super common, right? Or it's hey, you take my insurance Sarah: usually people it's a lot of nose. It's a lot of going down rabbit holes and oh we don't play some plants here. You'd have to go see a Surgeon, it's a lot of roadblocks You And a lot of denial. So I think a lot of team members are afraid. To give unrealistic expectations so they shut things down right away and consequently the patients are like, okay, I guess not coming in.it's so sad and I hear, we just hear hundreds and hundreds of these calls all the time where it's like a dead end. It's a roadblock. It's a bottleneck in the conversation. So instead, so we have to take that tough question. Sometimes I like to envision it as a brick or something that if somebody's handing you this object, you have to take it.It's not what we're going to deal with immediately. We're just going to set it right here. And then we're going to draw the patient in by connecting. And by building value for the practice before we get to that tough thorny question that we're going to deal with soon. So it could just be something like, First off you answer, you know, hi, my name, practice name. How can I help you today? And then they're going to give tough question. They're going to hand you the brick and you're going to say, awesome. That's such a great question. I'm so happy to help you with that today. Let me just get a little bit more information so I can help you out with that.And then you just go right into, get their name, use their name through the rest of the call. And then you're going to ask, find out why they're really calling. So patients are asking about insurance and pricing because they don't know what else to ask. But what they really want to know is, are you guys nice?Are you guys good? So you got to build that connection. You got to build a value. So you're going to say Oh, you just moved here. That's awesome. Welcome to the area. You're going to absolutely love it. And you're going to love our office. Dr. Jones is amazing with whatever it is that you wanted.So if you asked him how to crown, he's awesome at crowns. you're already building that value and that connection. And team members invariably think that's a waste of time. We don't take their insurance. Let's just end the call, but you're going to lose a hundred percent of those callers. If you at least build a connection and you're building trust, you're building value, so much more likely that you're going to schedule and that that patient's going to actually show up.Michael: like that. I like the way you put it like as a brick. I remember there was a, thing where they said like in different cultures, more like Japan, Japan. When you bring a gift to them, it's considered rude to open it