In this episode, I’m joined by the always insightful and globally-minded Dr. Vas Srinivasan, who recently built one of the most stunning orthodontic spaces in Southeast Queensland—right when the world said “don’t.” From battling banks post-COVID to doubling down on patient experience, Vas shares the inspiring story of why he took the leap, what he learned, and how he’s now positioned to dominate his local market—even against corporate competitors.

We talk about fear, growth, AI-powered offices, why silent front desks are the future, and how to turn brushing stations into monitoring hubs. We also get into real estate side hustles, building partnerships outside of dentistry, and the importance of having income streams that work while you sleep. This is a must-listen for any orthodontist who's wondering if now is the time to play bigger

QUOTES

“If someone says they weren’t scared building a practice like this—they’re lying. I had to re-mortgage my house. But this dream had to come together.”

— Dr. Vas Srinivasan

“Side hustles are great. But please—don’t do a restaurant. Don’t do a nightclub. Find something that works even when you’re asleep.”

— Dr. Vas Srinivasan

Key Takeaways

• Intro (00:00 )
• Vegemite vs. Tim Tams and Aussie hospitality (01:26 )
• Vas’s global journey: India → Minnesota → Sydney → Sunshine Coast (04:19 )
• Why he rebuilt his practice at 48—and made it huge (08:27 )
• Fear, funding struggles, and re-mortgaging his house (09:50 )
• Building for the wow: concierge front desks & AI systems (14:06 )
• Turning brushing stations into Grin monitoring hubs (15:45 )
• A shift away from aligners—and why patients are saying no (17:09 )
• Don't confuse patients: how to present treatment options better (19:27 )
• Real estate side hustle with his ex-TC as a partner (21:35 )
• The “low-cost braces clinic” model that fuels his main practice (23:15 )
• Why now is the time to invest in yourself and your future (25:47 )
• The Vanguard announcement + what’s next (26:59 )

Additional Resources

If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to level up your space, your systems, or your side hustle—this episode is your permission slip. Fear and growth go hand in hand, but so does freedom when you build it intentionally.

👉 Listen now and see what’s possible when you stop shrinking to fit your surroundings—and start building for the practice you actually want.

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