The Independent Dental Practice Podcast

IDP Podcast is Sponsored by Kettenbach Dental. For over 75 years, Kettenbach has delivered innovative materials that help dentists improve clinical efficiency and outcomes. Now introducing Profisil® Fluoride Varnish Plus, a next-generation varnish formulated with 5% sodium fluoride combined with calcium, phosphate, and hydroxyapatite to support enamel remineralization and long-term protection. Kettenbach is also offering 20% off your purchase of retail priced products — Visit the link below to learn more about the offer and use promo code IDP2026 to unlock it. Kettenbach Dental Discount: https://qrco.de/bggUPuKettenbach Resource Material: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wav7CIQIdZufH_b8AzzKZwsGvujAvZAg?usp=drive_linkEpisode TitleBuying or Selling an Independent Dental Practice: The Do’s and Don’ts Every Dentist Should KnowDescriptionDr. Sonny Spera welcomes dental consultant Bob Spiel to discuss the do's and don'ts of buying, selling, and transitioning independent dental practices. They explore dentist-to-dentist ownership transitions, DSO sales, financial planning, and strategies for protecting a practice's legacy.HighlightsBob explains common mistakes in dental practice sales, the importance of choosing compatible business partners, mentoring associates for ownership, and why dentists should begin planning their practice exit five years early. Personal PassionsBob shares his passion for leadership, mentorship, and preserving independent dentistry, while Dr. Sonny emphasizes maintaining the culture, relationships, and personal care that define a dental practice. Podcast VisionThe Independent Dental Practice Podcast empowers dentists with practical insights, professional experiences, and strategies to strengthen independent practice ownership and protect the dentist-patient relationship.TakeawaysDon't depend on selling your practice to fund retirement. Invest early, build trustworthy partnerships, develop leadership skills, and plan transitions well in advance to protect your financial future and practice legacy.___________________________________________________________________Connect with Dr. Sonny Spera:📧 [email protected] with Bob Spiel:📧 [email protected] for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.#dentistry #dentist #dental #dentalpractice #dentallife #dentistryworld #dentaleducation #independentdentistry #dentalpracticeownership #dentalpracticetransition #dentalpracticesale #dentalpracticeacquisition #dentaltodentisttransition #dentalretirementplanning #dentalpracticeleadershipThis episode includes AI-generated content.

IDP Podcast is Sponsored by Kettenbach Dental. For over 75 years, Kettenbach has delivered innovative materials that help dentists improve clinical efficiency and outcomes. Now introducing Profisil® Fluoride Varnish Plus, a next-generation varnish formulated with 5% sodium fluoride combined with calcium, phosphate, and hydroxyapatite to support enamel remineralization and long-term protection. Kettenbach is also offering 20% off your purchase of retail priced products — Visit the link below to learn more about the offer and use promo code IDP2026 to unlock it. Kettenbach Dental Discount: https://qrco.de/bggUPuKettenbach Resource Material: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wav7CIQIdZufH_b8AzzKZwsGvujAvZAg?usp=drive_linkEpisode TitleFrom NCAA Champion With Michael Jordan to Dental Leadership Coach: Matt Doherty’s JourneyDescriptionDr. Sonny Spera welcomes former NCAA champion and executive leadership coach Matt Doherty to discuss how lessons from championship basketball translate into dental practice leadership, team accountability, business growth, and building a winning practice culture.HighlightsMatt shares his journey from playing alongside Michael Jordan to coaching dental practice owners. The conversation explores leadership mistakes, emotional intelligence, team accountability, delegation, and the importance of strong systems and culture in dentistry.Personal PassionsMatt is passionate about coaching, mentoring leaders, and helping dentists overcome challenges. Drawing from his basketball career and personal setbacks, he emphasizes resilience, self-awareness, and continuous improvement.Podcast VisionThe Independent Dental Practice Podcast empowers dentists with practical insights, leadership strategies, and real-world experiences to help them build successful independent practices.TakeawaysSuccessful dental practices require more than clinical expertise. Dentists must develop leadership skills, empower their teams, establish clear expectations, and create a culture of accountability to achieve sustainable growth.___________________________________________________________________Connect with Dr. Sonny Spera:📧 [email protected] with Matt:📧[email protected] for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.This episode includes AI-generated content.

Disclosure: This video includes paid partnerships and sponsor relationships. I may receive compensation from companies mentioned. All opinions are my own.IDP Podcast is Sponsored by Kettenbach Dental. For over 75 years, Kettenbach has delivered innovative materials that help dentists improve clinical efficiency and outcomes. Now introducing Profisil® Fluoride Varnish Plus, a next-generation varnish formulated with 5% sodium fluoride combined with calcium, phosphate, and hydroxyapatite to support enamel remineralization and long-term protection. Kettenbach is also offering 20% off your purchase of retail priced products — Visit the link below to learn more about the offer and use promo code IDP2026 to unlock it. Kettenbach Dental Discount: https://qrco.de/bggUPuKettenbach Resource Material: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wav7CIQIdZufH_b8AzzKZwsGvujAvZAg?usp=drive_linkEpisode TitleStaying Independent: Dr. Amrita Patel on Private Equity, Insurance, and the Future of DentistryDescriptionDr. Sonny Spera welcomes Dr. Amrita Patel, a New York-based general dentist and multi-practice owner, to discuss the challenges facing independent dentistry, including private equity, dental insurance reimbursement, corporate ownership, and the importance of protecting the profession.HighlightsDr. Patel shares her experience with family-owned dental practices, concerns about DSOs and private equity, declining insurance reimbursement, unrealistic social media expectations, and the importance of business education and mentorship for young dentists.Personal PassionsBeyond clinical dentistry, Dr. Patel is passionate about leadership, dental education, advocacy, and helping dentists navigate challenges not typically addressed in dental school. She also writes the Leadership column for AGD Impact magazine.Podcast VisionThe Independent Dental Practice Podcast aims to empower dentists through honest conversations about practice ownership, professional independence, leadership, and the future of dentistry.TakeawaysIndependent dentists must understand their business decisions, critically evaluate insurance participation, support one another, and advocate for a profession that remains strong for future generations.___________________________________________________________________Podcast Specific Discounts (POD26): https://dentistryingeneral.com/digrnConnect with Dr. Sonny Spera:📧 [email protected] with Dr. Amrita:📧[email protected] for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.This episode includes AI-generated content.

Disclosure: This video includes paid partnerships and sponsor relationships. I may receive compensation from companies mentioned. All opinions are my own.IDP Podcast is Sponsored by Kettenbach Dental. For over 75 years, Kettenbach has delivered innovative materials that help dentists improve clinical efficiency and outcomes. Now introducing Profisil® Fluoride Varnish Plus, a next-generation varnish formulated with 5% sodium fluoride combined with calcium, phosphate, and hydroxyapatite to support enamel remineralization and long-term protection. Kettenbach is also offering 20% off your purchase of retail priced products — Visit the link below to learn more about the offer and use promo code IDP2026 to unlock it. Kettenbach Dental Discount: https://qrco.de/bggUPuKettenbach Resource Material: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wav7CIQIdZufH_b8AzzKZwsGvujAvZAg?usp=drive_linkEpisode TitleHow Mentorship Led Dr. Minerva Patel From Dental School to Practice OwnershipDescriptionDr. Sonny Spera talks with pediatric dentist Dr. Minerva Patel about mentorship, partnership, practice ownership, leadership, and the lessons she learned transitioning from residency into a 50/50 dental practice partnership and eventually becoming the sole owner.HighlightsDr. Patel shares how years of mentorship opened the door to ownership, what her dental practice buy-in and buyout looked like, how she handled debt and leadership challenges, and why clearly defined roles matter in a dental partnership.Personal PassionsDr. Patel discusses her passion for pediatric dentistry, mentoring younger dentists, building a patient-centered practice, and giving back through Smiles Team Inc., her nonprofit providing dental care to underserved children in the Dominican Republic.Podcast VisionThis episode highlights the value of mentorship, relationships, persistence, and business responsibility for dentists who want to build long-term careers and eventually own successful independent practices.TakeawaysDental practice ownership requires much more than clinical skills. Dentists need strong mentors, clearly defined partnership responsibilities, the willingness to build relationships, and the discipline to actively pursue opportunities rather than waiting for them.___________________________________________________________________Podcast Specific Discounts (POD26): https://dentistryingeneral.com/digrnAssociate Dentist Opportunities:https://progressivedentalny.com/meet-us/dentist-careers-in-new-york/Connect with Dr. Sonny Spera:📧 [email protected] with Dr. Minerva:📧[email protected] for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.

Disclosure: This video includes paid partnerships and sponsor relationships. I may receive compensation from companies mentioned. All opinions are my own.IDP Podcast is Sponsored by Kettenbach Dental. For over 75 years, Kettenbach has delivered innovative materials that help dentists improve clinical efficiency and outcomes. Now introducing Profisil® Fluoride Varnish Plus, a next-generation varnish formulated with 5% sodium fluoride combined with calcium, phosphate, and hydroxyapatite to support enamel remineralization and long-term protection. Kettenbach is also offering 20% off your purchase of retail priced products — Visit the link below to learn more about the offer and use promo code IDP2026 to unlock it. Kettenbach Dental Discount: https://qrco.de/bggUPuKettenbach Resource Material: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wav7CIQIdZufH_b8AzzKZwsGvujAvZAg?usp=drive_linkEpisode TitleDental Practice Embezzlement: How to Spot It, Stop It, and Protect Your PracticeDescriptionDr. Sonny Spera sits down with dental embezzlement expert David Harris to discuss how theft happens inside dental practices, the warning signs dentists often overlook, and practical ways practice owners can protect themselves.HighlightsDavid explains behavioral red flags, how practice funds can be diverted, why dentists should compare collections with bank deposits, what happens after embezzlement is discovered, and how stronger financial controls can reduce risk.Personal PassionsDavid shares how an unexpected investigation early in his career led to decades of helping dentists uncover embezzlement and better protect their practices.Podcast VisionThe Independent Dental Practice Podcast gives dentists practical, real-world information to help them become stronger practice owners while staying focused on patient care.TakeawaysDentists should trust systems rather than people alone, divide financial responsibilities, regularly reconcile collections with bank deposits, and pay attention to unusual employee behaviors that could signal a problem.___________________________________________________________________Podcast Specific Discounts (POD26): https://dentistryingeneral.com/digrnConnect with Dr. Sonny Spera:📧 [email protected] with David Harris:📧  www.prosperative.comDisclaimer for Dentistry in General Radio Network The Dentistry in General Radio Network (the "Network"), a division of Dentistry in General, LLC, provides podcast programming featuring independently selected guests by individual podcasters. Any guest appearance, documents, information, products, services, or opinions expressed on the Network’s podcasts are solely those of the guests and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of Dentistry in General, LLC, its owners, affiliates, podcasters, or employees.The Network, Dentistry in General, LLC, their affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees do not assume responsibility or liability for the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information, materials, documents, products, or services shared or referenced by podcast guests. Listeners must independently verify information presented, exercise professional judgment, and conduct appropriate due diligence before acting upon or implementing recommendations provided on the Network. Information shared by guests or podcasters should not be interpreted as professional, medical, legal, or financial advice, unless explicitly stated by a qualified professional.By accessing or engaging with the Dentistry in General Radio Network content, listeners expressly agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Dentistry in General, LLC, its affiliates, podcasters, owners, agents, and employees from and against all claims, liabilities, damages, costs, or losses arising out of or resulting from reliance upon information or materials shared by guests or podcasters. Dentistry in General, LLC and its podcasters reserve the right to edit, remove, or decline to broadcast any content or material at their sole discretion. Use of podcasts or materials provided through the Dentistry in General Radio Network constitutes acceptance of these terms and acknowledgment of this disclaimer.