In this episode of Simplify Dentistry, hosts Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan and Dr. Richard Offutt welcome Dr. Paul Etchison—practicing dentist, author of Dental Practice Hero, and host of the Dental Practice Heroes podcast. Paul shares his journey of building a thriving multi-doctor practice, the systems that created freedom instead of chaos, and the leadership lessons that help dentists design practices that serve both their patients and their lives.

 

Episode Navigation

00:00 – Welcome and introduction

01:42 – Paul’s early journey and practice growth

05:10 – Why systems equal freedom in dentistry

09:15 – Building high-performing teams and accountability

14:20 – Leadership lessons from Dental Practice Hero

20:40 – Common mistakes dentists make when scaling

27:15 – Balancing growth with work-life freedom

33:50 – How simplicity drives long-term success

38:12 – Closing thoughts and where to connect

 

Key Takeaways

Leadership & Systems

• Systems are the key to scaling without losing control
• Leadership means creating clarity, not micromanaging
• Accountability structures empower teams and reduce stress for owners
  
  

Practice Growth Insights

• Growth should support your life—not consume it
• Culture comes from clear expectations and consistent follow-through
• Scaling requires simplicity: fewer moving parts, stronger systems
  
  

 

Featured Discussion Topics

• Scaling dental practices with systems
• Leadership strategies for owners
• Team culture and accountability
• Work-life balance in dentistry
• Lessons from Dental Practice Hero
  
  

 

Meet Our Guest

Dr. Paul Etchison is a practicing dentist, podcast host, and author of Dental Practice Hero: From Ordinary Practice to Extraordinary Experience. He grew his practice into a multi-doctor group while maintaining work-life balance and now helps other dentists simplify their practices through leadership, systems, and mindset.

 

Connect With Simplify Dentistry

Website: simplifydds.com
Podcast: Available on all major platforms

 

Topics: dental leadership, dental practice systems, practice growth, work-life balance, dental entrepreneurship, team culture, accountability, practice management