Daily Dental Podcast

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down what it really takes to successfully bring on an associate. From knowing when you're ready to getting the contract details right, this is a roadmap for growth without chaos. He shares how to avoid common mistakes, what signs to look for before hiring, and why systems—not just busyness—are the foundation of success. If you're thinking about adding an associate, this episode will help you do it with clarity and confidence.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about the constant tug-of-war dentists face between clinical care and running a business. If you're jumping from patient care to team texts to QuickBooks without ever catching your breath, this one's for you. He shares why setting boundaries, blocking CEO time, and training your team to truly lead in their roles can free you up to actually grow your practice. It's time to stop doing it all and start leading with intention.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen unpacks a question he gets all the time: “Is it worth it to work with a coach or mastermind group?” Whether you're looking to grow faster, avoid burnout, or just stop feeling like you're figuring it all out alone, the right support can make all the difference. He shares how accountability, fresh perspective, and a strong peer group—like those found in DSN—can help you level up in business and leadership. If you've been on the fence, this episode will give you the nudge to take the next step.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a few of his go-to book recommendations for dentists who want to grow as leaders, business owners, and thinkers. Whether you're building systems, leading your team, or tightening up your finances, these books are practical, powerful, and easy to digest. Tune in to hear why The E-Myth Revisited, Extreme Ownership, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, and Profit First should be on your shelf—and how just 10 pages a day can make a big impact.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down the true meaning of leadership in a dental office—it's not just about calling the shots. It's about presence, humility, and setting the tone every day. From taking ownership when things go sideways to casting a clear vision in morning huddles, leadership shows up in the small moments. Tune in to hear how a simple mindset shift and a little honest feedback can help you lead your team more effectively.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen sits down with Ryan Gross to unpack how AI is changing the marketing and SEO landscape—and what dental practices need to do to stay ahead. They also dive into how to focus and adapt your marketing during economic slowdowns so you keep attracting patients without wasting budget. It's a conversation full of practical, timely insights you can put to work right away.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen dives into why your front desk may be the most important part of your patient acquisition strategy. From answering the phone with energy to guiding callers toward an appointment, your front desk sets the tone. Learn about the “Three E's” to listen for—Energy, Empathy, and Edification—and how to coach your team to deliver a white-glove experience every time.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

Today, Dr. Killeen shares practical strategies to keep your dental schedule tight and productive. From smarter confirmation calls to offering limited appointment options with urgency, he covers how to reduce no-shows and protect your team's momentum. Learn how to track problem patterns, leverage an ASAP list, and use prepayment strategies that make patients show up and respect your time.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down the essential KPIs every dental practice should be tracking to stay healthy and grow. From weekly pulse checks like production and case acceptance to deeper monthly dives into overhead and AR, he shares how to build a simple, effective dashboard—and why reading your numbers is one of the most important skills a leader can develop.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen highlights one of the simplest ways to boost team communication and reduce chaos in your practice—the morning huddle. With just 8 to 10 minutes of focused connection, your team can align on goals, flag schedule issues, and start the day with purpose. Whether you've done huddles for years or are just getting started, this quick listen will remind you why a great morning huddle can be a game-changer. To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen talks about one of the hardest parts of leadership—dealing with toxic team members and the ripple effects they create. From recognizing early warning signs to having honest conversations and setting clear expectations, Addison walks through how to handle negativity with both empathy and decisiveness. If you've ever felt the energy shift in your office or sensed something was off, this episode is for you. Because protecting your culture isn't just important—it's essential.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

Today, Dr. Killeen dives into a common question: “How do I track and improve case acceptance rates?” Spoiler alert—it starts way before the patient says yes or no. Addison shares a real-world story comparing a high-producing senior doc to an associate who wasn't seeing the same success. The big difference? It wasn't acceptance rate—it was how much was being treatment planned in the first place. You'll learn how to reverse-engineer production using a simple equation, why “at-bats” matter, and how to guide your team toward their income goals with data—not guesswork.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

Today, Dr. Killeen unpacks one of the most common (and loaded) questions in dentistry: “Should I drop PPOs or go fee-for-service?” He walks through how to evaluate your fee schedules, understand where your revenue is really coming from, and assess the true cost of doing each procedure. It's not just about what you charge—it's about what you keep. Tune in to learn how to make smarter, data-driven decisions for your practice's profitability, and why sometimes dropping a plan isn't about guts—it's about math.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen dives into one of the most underrated drivers of success in any dental practice—core values. They might sound fluffy or corporate, but when used intentionally, core values shape your culture, your team, and even your Google reviews. Hear how Capital Dental uses core values in hiring, daily conversations, and team alignment—and why practices that ignore them often struggle. Whether you're starting from scratch or revisiting your current list, this is your nudge to make sure your values are more than just wall art.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

Today, Dr. Killeen celebrates hitting 2,400 Google reviews—and unpacks why that number isn't just for show. It's about the internal culture those reviews reflect. From phone tone to front desk vibes, every touchpoint matters when you're chasing a Fantastic Guest Experience—Capital Dental's #1 core value. Hear how focusing on consistency and patient-first energy fuels growth and team alignment. Plus, a quick shoutout: Dr. Killeen's new book The Shift launches today—grab your copy on Amazon or Barnes & Noble!To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares how to make meaningful connections with new patients in just the first few minutes. It's not about clinical expertise—it's about genuine curiosity. By asking simple, open-ended questions like “What brought you to town?” or “What's something you're looking forward to?”, you'll build trust, ease anxiety, and set the stage for lasting relationships. Tune in for practical ways to turn small talk into big impact.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect wit

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a heartfelt reminder of the power of giving back. When dentistry starts to feel like a grind, sometimes the best medicine isn't scaling back—it's stepping into service. Whether it's a free clinic, a mission trip, or a few emergency slots for those in need, volunteering helps you reconnect with your purpose, reset your gratitude, and lead with heart. Tune in for a practical nudge to make space for the kind of care that truly matters.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen dives into one of the simplest but most powerful tools for connection—using someone's first name. Whether you're speaking with a patient, a teammate, or a family member, intentionally saying their name a few times can make a big impact. Inspired by a classic Dale Carnegie quote, this episode is a reminder that small gestures of respect and attention often carry the biggest weight. Try it today—and watch your connections grow stronger.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen opens up about a lesson that's helped him stay grounded during a whirlwind season of family, travel, and the upcoming release of his new book, The Shift. Inspired by The Essential by Soren Gordhamer, he explores what it means to slow down, reconnect with what truly matters, and lead from a place of authenticity—not hustle. If you've been running at full speed, this episode is your reminder to pause, reflect, and re-member the pieces of yourself you may have left behind.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a team-building exercise called “Focus on You,” inspired by the work of Talent Plus—a Lincoln-based company with deep roots in Gallup and StrengthsFinder. If you're looking for a meaningful, easy-to-run activity for your next team meeting, this one's a winner. It's all about helping your team grow by reflecting on strengths and building deeper relationships.To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, follow along as Dr. Killeen discusses a new 1-on-1 format with his team members, what he learns, and how it fosters new conversations that don't usually happen during an accountability meeting or annual review. To learn more about Dr. Killeen and his new book, The Shift, or to connect with him, check out www.AddisonKilleen.com.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen explores a powerful question inspired by Jeff Bezos: “What's not going to change in the next 10 years?” He shares the timeless truths of dentistry—like trust, empathy, and clinical skill—and encourages you to focus your strategy on what patients will always value.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on how easily habits can slip when routines change—and why protecting the right ones is key to long-term success. Whether it's morning workouts or team huddles, he challenges you to pick one habit that matters and commit to it, even on your busiest days.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a practical mindset shift that helped him beat procrastination—thanks to something called Skinner's Law. Whether you're putting off a big project or just avoiding a small task, learn how to tweak the pain/pleasure equation to get yourself into gear. Plus, hear the simple trick that got Dr. Killeen to finally finish his book.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a personal story about taking a leap, starting over, and how one phone call changed the course of his career. What felt like disconnected moments—leaving a group practice, building Capital Dental, launching DSN—eventually formed a clear path. Tune in to hear why your next step doesn't need to be perfect—it just needs to move you forward. Keep stacking the dots. The bigger picture will come.

On today's episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on being named to Incisal Edge's 40 Under 40 and what it really means to hit that milestone. Turning 40 isn't the finish line—it's the halfway point, and a reminder that wisdom is a superpower. In this episode, he shares why your experience matters more than ever, and how using what you've learned can be one of the most meaningful ways to lead, teach, and grow.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares a bedtime conversation with his son that sparked a deeper reflection on success, gratitude, and leadership. True impact, he explains, comes not just from building a great team—but from helping that team grow beyond you. Tune in for a thoughtful reminder that the best leaders don't just hold people back—they launch them forward.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen unpacks the power of curiosity—and why it's okay to explore things that don't have a clear payoff. From calligraphy to coding, the things you dive into “just because” might end up shaping your future in unexpected ways. Tune in for a gentle reminder to stay curious, keep learning, and trust that the dots will connect.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen encourages you to challenge the assumptions that may be shaping your practice. From financial models to scheduling systems, many decisions are built on default guesses that could be steering you in the wrong direction. Take a fresh look at one area of your practice today—you might uncover insights (and savings) just by asking better questions.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on why relationships are the true foundation of success, impact, and joy. Whether it's in your practice, your personal life, or your wider community, the right connection can unlock doors and deepen your experience. Take a moment today to invest in someone—because great things almost always start with great relationships.

Today, Dr. Killeen dives into the subtle power of your environment. Whether it's your home, office, or operatory, your surroundings are constantly nudging your behavior. Want to build better habits and stay focused? Start by adjusting the space around you. In this quick episode, you'll get simple tips to help your environment work for you—not against you.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen explores the difference between analyzing and building—and why you need both. Education teaches us to spot problems, but entrepreneurship challenges us to solve them. Tune in for a quick mindset reset that'll help you shift from critique to creation and take real action in your practice today.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares one of his favorite life rules: optimize for enthusiasm. When you're pulled in a dozen directions, choosing the path that energizes you can be a game-changer. Whether it's a project, a patient interaction, or a new skill you've been curious about—follow the spark. It's often the clearest signal of where you'll find fulfillment and momentum.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen dives into the power of forward motion. Whether it's a new treatment protocol, a workflow idea, or a piece of equipment you've been debating, waiting for perfection can stall your progress. Instead, take action—even if it's not perfect. Because in dentistry (and in life), momentum creates feedback, and feedback drives real growth. Tune in and get inspired to launch that idea you've been sitting on.

Consistency builds momentum, but blind repetition can stall your growth. In today's episode, Dr. Killeen explores the fine line between helpful routines and harmful ruts. Learn why adaptive consistency—not just doing the same thing every day—is the real key to progress. Plus, hear about his simple monthly check-in ritual to make sure your habits are actually moving you toward your goals.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares an exciting opportunity to see exactly how things run at Capital Dental. From their humble 2019 startup to a bustling multi-doctor, multi-hygienist operation, he's pulling back the curtain this November in Lincoln, Nebraska. You'll get a transparent look at systems, team structure, marketing wins (and misses), and how they tackled three construction projects and kept growing. If you're serious about building or scaling your own practice, this behind-the-scenes event is for you. Spots are limited—reach out if you want in! https://www.addisonkilleen.com/events/

In this holiday episode, Dr. Killeen shares a wild 4th of July memory that turned into a real-life crash course in emergency care—featuring a daredevil toddler, a lake dock, and a forehead gash. He reflects on how quickly emergencies can unfold, both in life and in dentistry, and walks through what every dentist should be prepared for when trauma walks through the door. From luxated teeth to lacerations, do you know what to do? Dr. Killeen shares key resources (including a go-to trauma book from Amazon) and reminds us why having a plan matters. Happy 4th—and stay safe out there!

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares his take on dental practice analytics—and why they matter, but only in the right doses. With so many numbers flying around, it's easy to get overwhelmed (or burnt out). Dr. Killeen breaks down what to track consistently, how often to review it, and when it's time to dig deeper—or simply stay the course. Plus, hear about his upcoming in-person course this November, where he'll share the exact spreadsheet he uses to stay on top of his practice metrics. https://www.addisonkilleen.com/events/

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares his own morning routine—and why yours doesn't have to look the same. From early alarms to cold coffee, reading, writing, and workouts, he explains what works for him and how it sets the tone for the day. But more importantly, he reminds us that a successful routine is one that aligns with your biology, your priorities, and your life. Whether you're an early bird or a night owl, this episode is about designing rhythms that support your goals, not someone else's.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen explores a common next step for many successful practices: expansion. Whether it's adding an associate, expanding hours, or opening a second location, the big question is—does growth align with your original vision? He breaks down how to use KPI data to guide smart decisions, avoid burnout, and plan for growth that fits your goals. If your schedule's packed and your team is stretched, this might be the episode that helps you decide what's next—and how to do it right. https://www.addisonkilleen.com/events/

In this episode, Dr. Killeen draws inspiration from rocket science—literally—to talk about why no launch (whether it's a SpaceX rocket or your new dental practice) ever goes perfectly. From unexpected delays to staff no-shows, things will go wrong. But with the right backup plans—cash reserves, contingency lists, solid insurance, and red-team drills—you can turn chaos into confidence. Tune in for a relaxed, practical conversation on preparing for the unexpected so your practice keeps moving forward, no matter what.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down why efficiency isn't just about speed—it's about creating a smoother experience for patients and a less stressful day for your team. From website FAQs to clinical checklists and scheduling templates, he walks through the key elements of an optimized patient journey. Whether you're just starting out or running a large practice, a little structure goes a long way. Plus, hear how you can grab Dr. Killeen's own time-saving templates in the upcoming Startup30 course. https://www.addisonkilleen.com/events/

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a surprising lesson from a Chicago factory study and how it applies to running a dental practice. When people know they're being measured, performance improves—and that's true in dentistry too. He breaks down the core KPIs every startup should track (think: new patients, production, collections, and treatment dollars), and how a simple weekly dashboard and huddle can keep your team aligned and growing. Insightful, practical, and just 15 minutes a week to better results.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen walks through what really drives new patient flow in a startup—smart, brand-led marketing. From a humble coffee shop brainstorm with marketing pro Ryan Gross to 200+ new patients a month, you'll hear how it all starts with your story. He shares how to build a compelling brand, drive traffic with SEO and ads, and convert clicks into appointments with online scheduling. If you're launching soon or just need a marketing refresh, this episode is full of practical, high-ROI tips. https://www.addisonkilleen.com/events/

Today, Dr. Killeen talks about one of the most important parts of any dental practice—your people. From crafting clear job descriptions to spotting candidates with the “Humble–Hungry–Smart” trifecta, this episode covers practical strategies to find and hire great team members. Plus, hear how tools like the Startup30 course can help streamline onboarding, write better ads, and get your team up to speed faster. Whether you're a startup or just short-staffed, this one's full of tips you can use right away. https://www.addisonkilleen.com/events/

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen dives into one of the trickiest parts of running a dental practice—PPO decisions and revenue cycle management. He shares hard-earned lessons from his own experience, including why negotiating up to the 95th percentile made a big financial difference. You'll also get tips on setting up systems for insurance claims, benefit verification, and improving collections. Whether you're launching a startup or tightening up an established office, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you keep more of what you earn. https://www.addisonkilleen.com/events/

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen dives into how the right equipment choices can set your practice up for success—without breaking the bank. From chairs to software, he shares tips on balancing quality with ROI, how to think “cheap but smart,” and why integration matters more than flash. Plus, hear about timelines, vendor setup, and planning your install like a pro. Whether you're gearing up for a new practice or upgrading your current one, this episode will help you make decisions that pay off.

In today's episode, Dr. Killeen shares a cautionary tale about a dentist whose license was suspended due to a paperwork issue—sparked by an old employee of the previous owner. The damage was done before the new doc could even react. If you're in startup mode or even already open, this episode is a must-listen. From legal structure and radiology permits to OSHA and HIPAA compliance, Dr. Killeen breaks down the critical steps to make sure your practice is protected and built on solid ground. Don't let small oversights lead to big problems.

Today, Dr. Killeen dives into one of the biggest decisions you'll make when starting a practice—your location. It's more than just an address; it's your front door to the community. He walks through how to analyze demographics, traffic patterns, and nearby businesses, plus the hidden lease pitfalls to watch for. Whether it's a bustling strip mall or a quiet office park, your site sets the stage for success. Are you a startup or thinking about a new location? This episode will help you choose wisely—and avoid costly mistakes.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen kicks off a 2-week mini-series focused on startups—starting with the foundation of it all: your budget. Forget the social media unicorns promising million-dollar months. Real success starts with clear, precise financial planning. From construction costs and equipment to working capital and loan options, Dr. Killeen breaks down how to approach your startup numbers with clarity and confidence. Thinking about launching your own practice? Start by mapping out your total costs—then decide if the risk is worth the reward.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen shares some inspiration from author Ryan Holiday—best known for popularizing stoic philosophy through thoughtful, well-crafted books. But what really stands out is Holiday's process: slow, focused, intentional writing built on deep reading and reflection. Dr. Killeen contrasts this with today's fast-scrolling social media culture and makes a compelling case for choosing substance over speed. Today's challenge? Put down the phone and pick up a book—something created with care, depth, and purpose.