The Raving Patients Podcast

If you're feeling overwhelmed trying to balance patient care while navigating all the buzz about AI in dentistry, you're not alone. But today's episode will help clear the confusion and show you how to use AI to your advantage—starting now. To break it down, I've invited Conner Ludlow, founder of Annie, an AI platform that builds virtual front desk assistants for dental practices. With a background as a software engineer and tech leader, Conner knows exactly where AI is truly helpful—and where the hype gets a little too loud. In this episode, we explore the real-world uses of AI for dentists today (without needing expensive software), what "AI hallucinations" mean for your practice, and how tools like Annie can stretch your operational dollars without replacing your team. It's a must-listen if you want practical strategies to make technology work for you—not against you. AI is a tool, not a silver bullet: It can boost efficiency but still needs human oversight to represent your practice properly. Real-world wins with AI: Practices can save time with AI-generated blogs, better market research, and virtual front desk agents like Annie. Customization is key: The most successful use of AI in a dental office feels personalized—not robotic—thanks to intentional setup and continuous fine-tuning. — Soundbites "Our goal is not to replace humans, but to help offices stretch their operational dollars and make sure that they have backup and help to never miss opportunities and make sure that they're capturing all of their revenue potential."– Conner Ludlow "AI is really just a new tool that can help practices and business owners and everybody be more effective in their job."– Conner Ludlow "We tend to overestimate the effect of a technology in the short run and underestimate the effect of the technology in the long run."— Conner Ludlow "Annie is not here to replace a full-time employee—it's a helper. When you bring it into your office, make sure your front desk team knows it's there to make their job easier, not replace them. It's about simplifying their work, not taking it away."-Dr. Len Tau — Keywords: dental AI, dental marketing, front desk automation, dental practice growth, artificial intelligence in dentistry, dental staffing solutions, AI for dentists, AI overhype, Annie AI, dental office management, chatbot dentistry, ChatGPT dental uses   — Key Takeaways 01:40 Introduction to AI in Dentistry 04:04 Understanding AI: Hype vs. Reality 07:03 Practical Applications of AI in Dental Practices 09:13 The Role of AI in Marketing and Content Creation 13:20 AI's Limitations and Challenges 17:04 The Future of AI in Dentistry 23:50 Annie: The AI Assistant for Dental Practices 31:06 Conclusion and Call to Action — Connect with Conner Want to learn more about how Annie can help your dental practice thrive with AI? ✅ Visit helloannie.com to schedule a demo. ✅ Mention you heard about Annie on the Raving Patients Podcast to get an exclusive discount — half off your setup fee plus savings on your monthly dues! ✅ Explore Annie's AI tools and see how you can streamline your front desk without replacing your valuable team.   Follow Conner and Annie for the latest updates:

What if the key to transforming your entire practice isn't a new procedure—but a reimagined hygiene department? In this powerful episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau is joined by Rachel Wall, founder and CEO of Inspired Hygiene, to explore how dental practices can heal old rifts, boost team synergy, and build a more profitable, empowered hygiene department. Rachel shares her insights from over 30 years in the industry and breaks down why 2025 is the perfect time to invest in your hygiene team. From integrating new technology to creating solid communication frameworks, this episode is packed with real-world strategies to help your hygiene department thrive. Whether you're facing high turnover, frustrated teams, or stagnating profits, this conversation will give you the direction and motivation to make lasting change. In this episode, we cover: 2025 is a crucial year for resetting expectations, values, and communication in the hygiene department Assisted hygiene is a sustainable and empowering model—when implemented correctly Technology integration is only effective when teams have aligned protocols and workflows Healing the hygienist-dentist rift starts with open communication and mutual respect Investing in hygiene isn't just about productivity—it's about delivering better patient care and empowering your team — Key Takeaways 00:50 Introduction and Event Announcement 01:43 Investing in Your Hygiene Team 03:21 Understanding Inspired Hygiene 07:48 Recognizing the Need for Coaching 11:52 The Importance of 2025 for Hygiene Investment 17:35 The Future of Assisted Hygiene 21:21 Healing the Rift Between Hygienists and Dentists 27:05 Future Predictions for Dental Hygiene 29:58 Exciting Technological Advancements in Dentistry 33:34 Lightning Round Q&A   — Connect with Rachel

If your team's struggling to stay aligned or your office feels stuck in a rut, you're not alone—and this episode is your wake-up call. Dental success isn't just about clinical excellence. It's about communication, leadership, and team synergy—and that's exactly what we're diving into today. I'm joined by three powerhouse women in dentistry—Lois Banta, Dana Watson, and Emme Sanders—to talk about their latest collaborative event: COLLABricon, the team synergy summit built specifically for dental practices that are ready to evolve. These women bring decades of experience in leadership, hygiene systems, front office strategy, and coaching—and they're on a mission to help you build a stronger, more aligned, and more empowered dental team. In this episode, we cover: Why team communication often breaks down—and how to fix it How COLLABricon is not your average CE event (think: intimate team retreats with powerful coaching) What every dentist thinks their team knows vs. what the team actually feels How to know if your office is “green, yellow, or red” in key practice areas Real stories from the trenches on team burnout, miscommunication, and turning things around Plus, a behind-the-scenes look at this year's Collabricon event in Nashville, TN Whether you're a practice owner, hygienist, office manager, or dental assistant—you'll leave this conversation with renewed inspiration and real tools to strengthen your practice from the inside out. — Key Takeaways 00:40 Introduction and Event Announcement 02:00 Introducing the Guests and Their Expertise 04:40 The Concept of COLLABricon 08:50 Understanding Team Synergy 14:25 Identifying Ideal Candidates for COLLABricon 17:36 Recognizing the Need for Help 20:38 The Importance of Communication and Feedback 25:10 Exciting Details About COLLABricon 27:25 Interactive Learning Experience 33:01 Mindsets for Success 32:36 Books That Inspire 36:25 Essential Subscriptions for Productivity 38:35 How to Get Involved with COLLABricon — Collabricon Details

If you're investing time and money into attracting new patients but still struggling to build long-term loyalty, this episode is for you. Great dental marketing doesn't stop when a new patient books—it starts the moment they walk through the door. And no one understands that better than Victoria Porter, founder of Bitemark Media. With a background in luxury hospitality and a passion for branding, Victoria brings a fresh perspective to dental marketing—one centered around real relationships, high-quality care, and community connection. In this episode, Victoria and Dr. Len Tau dive into: Why patient retention is the most underrated growth strategy in dentistry How to align your office experience with your brand voice The key touchpoints that keep patients loyal, even between appointments Creative ways to offer value without falling into the "discount trap" How to build a loyalty program that actually works And why believing in your brand's mission is the ultimate secret weapon Whether you're opening your first practice or looking to refresh your approach, Victoria shares practical advice (and real-life examples) for creating a practice that patients want to return to—and rave about. — Key Takeaways 00:42  Introduction and Event Announcement 01:56 Meet Victoria Porter: A Dental Marketing Powerhouse 05:06 The Importance of Patient Retention 10:06 Enhancing Patient Experience and Brand Voice 15:20 Nourishing Patient Relationships Beyond the Office 23:54 Implementing Loyalty Programs in Dental Practices 29:55 Authenticity in Patient Care 31:58 Lightning Round Q&A 37:26 Conclusion and Contact Information   — Connect with Victoria Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriasoleil/

Wondering how AI is reshaping dentistry—for real? If you've heard the buzz but haven't seen how it translates to your day-to-day practice, this episode is for you. I'm joined by Wardah Inam, the brilliant mind behind Overjet, the AI platform that's helping dentists diagnose with more confidence, improve case acceptance, and finally bring consistency to treatment planning. Whether you're part of a DSO or running your own practice, this conversation will change how you think about tech in the operatory. I sit down with Wardah Inam, CEO and co-founder of Overjet, one of the leading AI companies transforming dental care. With a PhD from MIT and a deep background in AI and healthcare innovation, Wardah shares her journey from being a curious dental patient to pioneering real-time AI solutions for dentists, DSOs, and insurers alike. In this insightful conversation, you'll learn how AI isn't just hype—it's becoming a game changer in diagnostics, treatment planning, and administrative efficiency. Wardah explains how Overjet is making diagnosis more quantitative, improving consistency across providers, and boosting case acceptance with powerful visuals that speak to patients in a way they can understand. Whether you're a solo practitioner, DSO leader, or simply curious about how AI fits into your workflow, this episode is packed with practical insights, future-forward thinking, and compelling reasons to consider the power of AI in your dental practice. What You'll Learn: How Overjet's AI technology is improving diagnostic precision and patient trust Why AI is a powerful tool for increasing case acceptance The surprising story that inspired Wardah to enter the dental field The role of AI in streamlining insurance claims and reducing administrative burden What sets Overjet apart from other dental AI companies The future of AI in dentistry—from auto-charting to real-time claim approvals — Key Takeaways 00:40 Introduction to AI in Dentistry 03:17 Overjet's Role in Dental Care 04:00 Wardah's Journey into Dentistry 06:44 The Importance of Consistent Diagnosis 07:53 AI's Impact on Insurance Claims 10:53 Enhancing Case Acceptance with AI 14:53 The Future of AI in Dental Practices 20:00 Overjet's Unique Features 25:23 Real-Time Insurance Approvals 25:20 Adoption Trends: DSOs vs. Solo Practitioners 28:12 Final Thoughts and Lightning Round — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

If insurance headaches are draining your energy and slowing your growth, you're not alone—and today's guest has the tools to help you take back control. In this episode, I sit down with Colleen Huff, an industry veteran with over 30 years of hands-on experience in dental insurance, revenue cycle management, and practice consulting. From her early days at MetLife to managing multi-location practices and now educating thousands through speaking, writing, and online courses—Colleen knows what it takes to turn insurance chaos into clarity. Her new book, A Mouthful of Insurance, is already making waves, and in this conversation, we dig into exactly why. We cover: The biggest insurance struggles dental practices are facing in 2025 Why practices need more than just an insurance coordinator—they need systems The truth about outsourcing verifications and what to look for in a partner How technology (like AI and practice management integrations) is changing the insurance game How to avoid common billing mistakes that can trigger audits or worse The role of accurate coding, documentation, and clear patient communication Why every team member—from front desk to back office—should understand the insurance landscape Whether you're in-network, out-of-network, or somewhere in between, Colleen's insights will help you make smarter financial decisions and run a more efficient, profitable practice. — Key Takeaways 00:45 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest   03:28 Understanding Dental Insurance Consulting   06:12 Challenges in Dental Practices   10:13 The Role of Team in Insurance Management   11:45 Outsourcing Insurance Verification Services   16:31 Technology in Dental Practices   18:00 AI and Its Impact on Insurance Claims   21:25 Navigating Insurance Payments and Estimates   23:40 The Importance of Accurate Billing Practices   27:48 Strategies for Increasing UCR Rates   28:28 The Debate on Pre-Authorizations   30:44 Overview of Colleen's Book   31:51 Lightning Round Q&A   36:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts  — Connect with Colleen

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the day-to-day grind of running your dental practice while trying to grow and stay competitive, you're not alone. But today's episode will help you take back control. Efficiency isn't just about working harder—it's about working smarter. To break this down, I've invited Gabe Hofmann, the Dental Efficiency Guy, to the show. Gabe has spent 17 years in the dental industry, helping DSOs and private practices streamline their operations, reclaim lost time, and boost profitability. From building a six-location dental group to partnering in AI automation, Gabe brings hands-on experience and real-world solutions that help practices run better. In this episode, we dig into: ✅ The biggest inefficiencies costing practices time and money ✅ How automation and AI can help dental teams focus on patient care ✅ Common software redundancies that could be draining your resources ✅ Simple strategies to improve workflow and increase profits ✅ How to navigate the flood of AI tools and find the right fit for your practice Gabe also shares his perspective on dental conferences—why they matter, how to maximize their value, and what to look for when choosing which ones to attend. Plus, if you're thinking about scaling from one practice to multiple locations, this episode is packed with insider tips to help you grow efficiently without burning out.

If you're spending money on marketing but have no clear way to track what's actually bringing in new patients, you're not alone. The good news? There's a way to fix that. In today's episode, we're talking about one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in marketing: call tracking. If you're not tracking your calls, you could be wasting thousands on campaigns that aren't delivering results. That's why I invited Nick Jascomb, Sales Manager at CallRail, to break down how dentists can easily track and optimize their marketing efforts. Nick has spent nearly six years helping businesses get smarter about their marketing strategies with real data, AI-driven insights, and call tracking that actually works. In this conversation, we cover: Why most dentists aren't tracking their marketing correctly—and how to fix it. How CallRail helps dental practices know exactly where new patients are coming from. AI's growing role in patient communication and marketing optimization. The #1 mistake practices make with call tracking (and how to avoid it!).

If you've ever felt like your dental career is a nonstop hustle, you're not alone. Balancing patient care, business growth, and personal well-being can feel overwhelming. But what if there was a way to elevate your practice while also investing in your own professional and personal development? In today's episode of The Raving Patients Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Jim Arnold, a veteran in the dental industry who's taking education and practice transitions to a whole new level. With over two decades of experience as a clinician, multi-practice owner, and educator, Jim is redefining continuing education through Luxury Dental Retreats, where dentists can gain high-level knowledge while enjoying exclusive, high-end experiences. Jim and I dive into:  ✅ The power of small-group luxury CE retreats—why intimate, high-value learning experiences trump traditional conferences. ✅ The future of dentist-led practice transitions—why private equity isn't always the best option. ✅ How leadership, mentorship, and work-life balance can transform your career and business. ✅ The latest trends in dentistry, including AI-driven advancements and the evolving DSO landscape. Plus, Jim shares his best strategies for achieving work-life balance, avoiding burnout, and finding the right community to support your growth. Whether you're an early-career dentist looking for mentorship or a seasoned professional considering a transition, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive in the business of dentistry. — Key Takeaways   Audio - 00:43 Introduction and Event Announcement 03:05 Luxury Dental Retreats: Concept and Purpose 05:55 Luxury Retreats: Features and Educators 10:30 Dubai Retreat: Expectations and Experience 12:20 Identifying Ideal Candidates for Retreats 14:11 Foundational Dental Services: Overview 21:25 Work-Life Balance for Dentists 23:49 Future Trends in Dentistry 29:24 Leadership in Dentistry 31:25 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights — Connect with Dr. Jim Arnold

If you've ever struggled with hiring the right people, fostering a positive workplace culture, or keeping your team engaged, you're not alone. But today's episode of The Raving Patients Podcast can help you change that. To break this down, I've invited Jonathan Bonanno, an expert in leadership development, workplace culture, and psychological safety. With a background in corporate consulting and dental practice optimization, Jonathan specializes in helping practices attract top talent, build cohesive teams, and create a thriving, productive work environment. In this conversation, we discuss: How to hire and retain top-tier dental talent The power of psychological safety in your practice Why toxic workplaces happen—and how to fix them Leadership strategies to strengthen your team and improve practice culture Combatting imposter syndrome and building confidence as a leader If you want to transform your dental practice into a place where both your team and patients thrive, this episode is a must-listen! — Key Takeaways Introduction and Event Overview (00:47) Jonathan Bonanno's Background and Expertise (01:49) Talent Optimization in Dental Practices (06:03) Improving Workplace Health and Behavior (11:10) Creating Psychological Safety in Teams (14:36) Leadership's Role in Workplace Culture (16:35) Understanding and Combating Imposter Syndrome (20:06) Exploring Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (23:43) Recognizing the Need for External Help (27:02) Lightning Round Q&A (28:10) — Connect with Jonathan Bonanno

If you've ever wished your team cared about your practice as much as you do, this episode is a must-listen! Building a successful dental practice isn't just about providing great care—it's about creating a culture where your team takes ownership, works together, and drives growth. To break down how you can make that happen, I'm joined by Craig McVey, Chief Operations Officer and Acquisition Analyst at Mountainside Dental Group. With 18 years in the dental industry and a deep understanding of practice management, Craig shares invaluable insights on leadership, transparency, and team-driven success. In this episode, we cover: Why data transparency is key to a thriving dental practice How team culture and leadership development impact performance The power of profit-sharing to boost motivation and retention How to keep your schedule full and improve case acceptance rates The importance of regular team meetings and how to make them effective The KPIs that matter most for practice growth Craig also shares how Mountainside Dental Group has scaled smartly, empowering team members and creating an ownership mentality without requiring associates to handle management duties. If you're looking for strategies to strengthen your team and grow your practice, this episode delivers real-world solutions.

Think a low interest rate is the key to paying off debt fast? Think again! Banks have mastered the art of distraction—getting you to focus on interest rates while the real secret to reducing debt stays hidden. If you're a dentist or business owner struggling with high monthly payments, there's a better way to take control of your finances, free up cash flow, and pay off debt faster than you ever thought possible—without sacrificing your lifestyle. That's why I'm joined by Dr. Howard Polansky, a former dentist turned financial strategist, who helps professionals like you escape the debt cycle without extreme budgeting or lifestyle sacrifices. In this episode, we cover topics like: Why focusing on interest rates is a trap—and what really determines your debt payoff timeline. How to restructure debt using cash flow optimization to reduce payments without cutting back on lifestyle. Why most financial advisors and CPAs don't discuss these strategies—and what you can do differently. The biggest risks to avoid when using this debt reduction strategy. Real-world examples of dentists who slashed their debt quickly and freed up thousands in cash flow. If you're ready to take control of your finances and gain true financial freedom, don't miss this conversation with Dr. Howard Polansky! — Key Takeaways Introduction (00:41) Dr. Howard's Life-Changing Moment (04:38) Transitioning from Dentistry to Financial Coaching (08:26) Understanding Debt and Interest Rates (11:35) Strategies for Managing Debt Effectively (13:00) The Role of Financial Advisors and CPAs (16:37) Working with Clients: The Process (25:30) Risks and Considerations in Debt Management (27:18) Lightning Round and Final Thoughts (34:20) — Connect with Dr Howard:

If you've ever wondered why some patients hesitate to move forward with treatment, you're not alone. Case acceptance isn't just about presenting a treatment plan—it's about understanding the psychology behind a "yes." That's why I've invited the highly respected Debra Engelhardt Nash to the Raving Patients Podcast. With decades of experience in dental consulting and coaching, Debra knows exactly how to help dental teams transform their patient conversations into powerful case acceptance strategies. In This Episode, We Cover: ✅ The key questions that make patients feel understood and ready to commit ✅ Why the front desk team is your best (or worst) case acceptance tool ✅ How to handle the dreaded "Do you take my insurance?" question ✅ Strategies to eliminate financial objections before they even come up ✅ The role of trust, team endorsement, and second opinions in case acceptance With insights from Debra's extensive career—including her experience at the Nash Institute for Dental Learning—you'll walk away with actionable tactics that will immediately boost patient conversions. — Key Takeaways Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment (00:47) Meet Deborah Engelhardt Nash (03:32) The Power of Patient Conversations (05:01) The First Phone Call Matters (10:05) Your Front Desk is a Sales Team (11:41) How to Sell Your Practice Over the Phone (12:04) Handling the Insurance Question Smartly (13:26) The Right Way to Discuss Cost (20:53) Why Team Endorsement Boosts Case Acceptance (21:48) The Magic Question to Increase Yeses (23:45) Overcoming Financial Objections (26:34) Introducing Payment Plans Effectively (27:20) Should You Offer Free Consultations? (30:53) Why You Should Record Calls (32:15) Lightning Round Q&A (32:27) Final Takeaways and How to Connect with Deborah (36:46) — Connect with Debra:

If you're like most dental practices, managing accounts receivable (AR) can feel overwhelming. But I've got good news—this episode is going to help you take control and make insurance systems work for you. I'm thrilled to welcome Bri Richardson, the powerhouse behind Elevate My Practice and founder of Dental Insurance SOS, to the podcast. Bri brings over 15 years of experience in the dental industry as a coach, trainer, and speaker. Her mission? To help practices get paid in full within 30 days and make insurance management easier and less stressful. During our conversation, Bri shares proven strategies for: Submitting clean claims that avoid delays. Estimating copays accurately—even when dealing with out-of-network insurance. Creating a rock-solid collections protocol that will transform your AR. Using automation and AI tools to simplify billing and insurance tasks. This episode is packed with actionable tips you can implement right away to help your practice thrive. Episode Highlights: Clean Claims Matter: Submitting claims with all the right documentation upfront will save you weeks of delays. Estimates Made Simple: Bri's system for reducing insurance coverage percentages by 20% for out-of-network patients is a game-changer. The Power of Protocols: Implementing a clear collections protocol can transform your AR—and your stress levels. Tech to the Rescue: Tools like Abella and Vine can take repetitive tasks off your team's plate. Invest in Training: Your front office team can be your biggest asset when equipped with the right skills and tools. — Key Takeaways Welcome to the Raving Patients Podcast (00:01) Meet Bri Richardson: Elevate My Practice (03:00) Why AR Management Is a Common Struggle (04:32) Accurate Copay Estimates: A Simple Approach (10:45) How to Handle Patient Pushback on Copays (14:00) Submitting Clean Claims the First Time (18:10) The Secret to Rock-Solid Collection Protocols (21:18) Top Tools to Simplify Insurance and Billing (26:58) Lightning Round Q&A (29:50) Stay Connected with Bri (34:05) — Connect with Bri: Email: bri@elevatemypractice.com Website: elevatemypractice.com Social Media: Instagram (@elevatemypractice) | Facebook (ElevateMyPractice) — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Are you running on empty while trying to pour into everyone else? Running a dental practice comes with its fair share of challenges—from managing patient care to motivating your team—all while trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance. In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, I sit down with Callie Ward, founder of Dash Dental Consulting, to uncover practical strategies that will help you transform your practice and reclaim your energy. With over 30 years of experience in the dental industry, Callie knows firsthand what it takes to create a thriving practice. Whether it's increasing case acceptance, improving team dynamics, or redefining your vision for success, her approach blends expertise with empathy. If you're looking for actionable advice to take your practice to the next level, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Episode Highlights: Finding Fulfillment in Your Practice: Callie shares how aligning your team's vision with your own can foster a positive and productive practice culture. Balancing Work and Life: Learn Callie's proven methods for creating a practice schedule that works for you—not against you—while building a life you love. Case Acceptance Through Relationships: Trust is everything. Callie explains why connecting with patients on a personal level is the secret to increasing case acceptance. Motivating Your Team: Discover the power of meaningful incentives and how celebrating your team's wins can create a stronger, more cohesive practice. The Role of Purpose: Callie explores why understanding what drives your team members—and giving them opportunities to shine—leads to better outcomes for everyone. — Key Takeaways Introduction and Event Highlights (00:01) Callie Ward's Approach to Dental Consulting (03:02) Aligning Team Vision and Leadership (04:25) Knowing When to Hire a Consultant (05:35) Building Intentional Team Connection (09:40) Effective Incentives and Motivation (12:50) Building Trust for Case Acceptance (18:08) Empowering Teams and Celebrating Wins (21:12) Work-Life Balance for Practice Owners (28:01) Lightning Round Q&A and Wrap-Up (30:27) Connect with Callie and Special Offer (35:00) — Connect with Callie: Website - https://www.dashdentalconsulting.com/ Special Offer: Callie is offering a free month of consulting for those who sign up by the end of February. Visit dashdentalconsulting.com to schedule a consultation and learn more. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

Are you working harder than ever but still feel like you're not living the life you dreamed of when you started your dental journey? You're not alone—but here's the good news: it doesn't have to be this way. If you're a dentist looking to work smarter—not harder—and live the life of your dreams, this episode is for you. I'm Dr. Len Tau, and today, I had the privilege of speaking with Scott Manning, founder of Dental Success Today, a dynamic coach, author, and speaker with nearly two decades of experience helping dentists achieve the perfect balance between professional success and personal fulfillment. What We Covered: In this jam-packed episode, Scott and I explored: Doubling Practice Profitability Why profitability isn't just about top-line growth but maximizing what you take home. Strategies like seeing fewer patients while delivering greater value to each one. The importance of leveraging your time and focusing on meaningful work. Freeing Up Time for Life and Practice How to design your practice around your life goals—not the other way around. Using time leverage and efficiency to spend less time working while still thriving financially. Reducing Insurance Dependence Why dropping low-paying insurance plans can boost your profitability and reduce stress. Steps to educate patients and shift to a patient-centric practice model. Achieving Financial Freedom Building multiple streams of income from within and outside your practice. Strategies for creating passive income so you can work by choice, not necessity. Scott shared his actionable insights, like knowing your average visit value, mastering comprehensive care, and the power of reverse-engineering your goals to build the practice—and life—you truly want. Key Takeaways Welcome and Introduction to Scott Manning (00:00) Scott's Journey from Martial Arts to Dentistry Coaching (04:22) Aligning Life Goals with Business Goals (08:00) Doubling Practice Profitability (09:36) The Four Pillars of Dental Practice Success (12:31) Small Business Math to Free Up Time (13:42) Maximizing Hourly Production and Visit Value (17:58) Reducing Insurance Dependence (20:40) Achieving Financial Freedom (26:38) Embracing Entrepreneurship in Dentistry (29:30) Lightning Round: Personal and Professional Insights (30:18) How to Connect with Scott Manning (35:38) — Connect with Scott: Website Email — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Thinking about selling your dental practice? Let me ask you this: do you want to walk away with just a fair deal—or the best deal possible?  If that sounds like a no-brainer, you're in the right place. In today's episode, I sit down with Elijah Desmond, a trailblazer in the dental industry, to uncover exactly how to do just that. From understanding your practice's true value to creating a roadmap for a seamless transition, we dive into everything you need to know to prepare for this life-changing decision.  Whether you're considering a DSO, private buyer, or just exploring your options, this episode is packed with practical tips and fresh perspectives to help you secure the best deal possible—and enjoy the process along the way. Ready to Get Started? Let's Dive In!   What You'll Get from This Episode: Maximizing Your Practice's Value: Elijah explains how to time your sale strategically and make sure your practice is ready to command top dollar. Understanding Your Worth: I learned why having a Quality of Earnings Light is critical to knowing the true value of your practice before entering negotiations. Planning Ahead: Elijah emphasizes that selling 3–5 years before retiring is the key to securing better offers and smoother transitions. A Fun and Unique Selling Process: Elijah shared his innovative approach to making the sales process not only effective but enjoyable, incorporating music, relationship marketing, and personal interviews with buyers. DSOs vs. Private Buyers: We also talked about the pros and cons of different types of buyers and how to find the one that aligns with your goals. — Key Takeaways  Introduction to the Podcast and Guest (00:00) Elijah Desmond's Journey and Current Focus (02:45) The Birth of Dental Pitch Brokerage (06:55) Building Relationships in the Dental Industry (10:44) Advantages of Using Dental Pitch Brokerage (15:27) Advice for Dentists Looking to Sell (19:43) Understanding Practice Valuation and Selling Strategies (24:01) Advice for Lower Revenue Practices (29:05) Lightning Round Q&A (30:28) Conclusion and Contact Information (35:25) — Connect with Elijah: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Resources to Explore: Visit Dental Pitch Brokerage: dentalpitchbrokerage.com Don't miss their free eBook on EBITDA—a must-read for anyone thinking of selling their practice. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Thinking about starting a dental practice or renewing your lease? You could be leaving thousands of dollars—or your dreams—on the table. In this episode, I sit down with Brian Mills, founder of Roam Commercial Realty, to uncover the hidden pitfalls and golden opportunities in dental real estate. From debunking myths about retail locations to sharing strategies for building long-term wealth, this conversation is essential for dentists who are ready to take charge of their future. Whether you're planning a startup, considering ownership, or just exploring your options, you'll leave this episode with actionable advice and a newfound sense of confidence. Here's what Brian and I cover in this episode: The Importance of Proper Representation: Why you should never rely on listing brokers and how tenant-focused representation works to your advantage. Lease Renewals Done Right: How to avoid costly mistakes, renegotiate terms, and save thousands. Startup Success Secrets: Why dental startups have a 99.6% success rate and how to overcome the fear of taking the leap. Renting vs. Owning: The pros and cons of each option and when it's time to invest in property. The Retail Myth: Why retail locations aren't always the best choice and how marketing often trumps location. Using Real Estate for Wealth Building: How to leverage real estate as an asset for long-term financial freedom. — Key Takeaways: Building a Legacy: Brian Mills' Role in Dental Real Estate (01:28)  Understanding Representation: Advocating for Dental Professionals in Real Estate (04:09)  Buy or Rent? Making the Right Real Estate Decision for Your Practice (07:57)  Conquering Fear: Why Starting a Practice Is Worth the Leap (12:28) Real Estate as a Wealth-Building Strategy for Dentists (17:34)  Navigating the Post-Election Real Estate Market (20:35)  Leveraging Negotiation: Securing Better Terms in Lease Renewals (24:17)  The Retail Location Myth: Choosing the Best Space for Your Practice (28:34)  Lightning Round Q&A: Insights, Favorites, and Personalities of Brian Mills (32:57)  — Connect with Brian: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roamcommercialrealty/ Website: https://www.roamcommercialrealty.com/   Special Offer for Listeners: Free lease evaluation and market analysis. Email your lease to: brian@roamcommercialrealty.com info@roamcommercialrealty.com — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

Is sales really a "dirty word"? Not for Cathy Hazen, and this episode will show you why embracing the power of "no" is key to getting more "yeses." Dr. Len Tau sits down with Cathy, a seasoned expert with over 30 years of sales and management experience, to explore the secrets to boosting case acceptance and empowering your dental team. From managing orthodontic practices to creating virtual office manager services, Cathy's passion for team development and patient-centered sales strategies shines. In this episode, Cathy and Len discuss: Why every member of your dental team is a salesperson (even if they don't realize it). Strategies to create a successful sales department within your practice. The importance of consistent processes for presenting treatment plans. How to overcome the fear of hearing "no" and why it leads to more "yeses." Tactics to follow up effectively with patients who don't commit immediately. — Key Takeaways: How Cathy Hazen Helps Practices Thrive (02:08) Changing the Stigma Around Sales in Dentistry (05:57) Should Dentists Take on the Sales Role? (12:09) The Importance of a Dedicated Sales Department (14:06) Who on Your Team Needs Sales Training? (16:57) Getting Your Team on the Same Sales Page (17:08) Mastering the Close: From Finances to Commitment (20:26) Follow-Up Strategies to Close the Deal (24:37) How Often Should You Follow Up? (27:50) Lightning Round Q&A with Cathy Hazen (29:23) — Connect with Cathy: Website Special Offer for Listeners: Complimentary 1-hour consultation to discuss opportunities for improving your practice's sales process. Reduced consulting fee of $850/month for the first quarter. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

If you're struggling to keep your front desk running smoothly, then believe me, you don't want to miss this episode. You see, ever since COVID hit, the dental industry, like every other industry, has been facing unprecedented staffing challenges.  This, in turn, has made remote staffing a very attractive option—and if you're feeling the same, and looking to hire VAs to make your job easier, then this is the episode for you. In it, I sit down with Cory Pinegar. Cory is the CEO of Utah-based company Reach, a groundbreaking dental service startup helping dental practices increase patient engagement and revenue.  With a workforce of close to 200 employees, Reach has been named one of the fastest growing companies by Inc. 500 and has been recognized repeatedly by the Salt Lake Tribune as one of the best places to work.  In 2021, Cory founded the remote staffing company Team which helps simplify hiring and allows businesses to circumvent domestic staffing issues and find qualified talent without worrying about complicated research to understand legalities, fair compensation, and the like.  In this episode, Cory and I will be discussing how virtual assistants can enhance your team, how VAs can help bring life back to your broken front desk, why AI and remote staffing can help optimize dental practices without compromising human connection, and much more. Are you ready to take your practice to the next level? Then tune in now! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) How Reach helps dental practices (03:29) Why you need a VA (06:58) How a VA can help your practice (10:11) What your VA can't do (11:39) How much does it cost to hire a VA? (18:44) Let's talk about your EBITDA (20:57) Should you use AI? (22:54) Time for our lightning round questions (26:18) — Connect with Cory: Facebook LinkedIn — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

Are you leaving money on the table? My guess is, probably! And in this episode, you'll learn how NOT to do that by enhancing your practice—while still making a difference. You see, dentists are some of the few (if not only) doctors and health practitioners that can diagnose people through their mouths, and by taking advantage of that skill, they can add up to $200K to their practice annually by offering additional services.  “This is all nice to hear, but how can I even start implementing that?” you might ask, and I've got the answer for you… or at least, my guest on the podcast this week does! In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Dar Radfar, also known as Dr. Rad.  Dr. Rad is an international speaker on sleep apnea, snoring, low level laser therapy, marketing, medical billing, and much more. A practice dentist of 22 years, he has a passion for speaking that includes personal development and strategies that help anyone manifest the life of their dreams. In this episode, Dr. Rad will be discussing the types of treatments you can add to your dental practice to add to your EBITDA and boost your profit. Some of the treatments he speaks of today are: Sleep apnea treatment Low-level laser therapy DNA testing Supplements for oral health … and more. Are you ready to take your dental practice to the next level? Then tune in now. — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Dr. Rad (02:48) More about sleep apnea (06:02) Financial increase brought from sleep apnea treatment (13:39) Let's talk about low-laser therapy (19:41) DNA testing services (21:45) Time for our Q&A (29:20) — Connect with Dr. Rad: Instagram 1 Instagram 2 Facebook LinkedIn — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

Could the design of your dental practice be the reason why you're not getting enough patients?  As we all know, today, your patients' experience starts before they even sit on the dental chair, and I mean way before—it starts on your website or your Google page or your social media accounts, where they get to see what your practice looks like. This is why your office's design is now more important than ever. But don't take it from me, instead, listen to the expert I've interviewed on today's episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Greg Marinelli. Greg is an interior architect and visionary from Newport Beach, California, with expertise in hospitality and healthcare design.  Greg's work and passion are all about creating incredible dental spaces that not only look great, but help elevate your practice to a new level. Since 2014, he has been traveling all over the US as a designer, industry expert, and motivational speaker, touting the importance of the patient experience in the healthcare environment. In this episode, Greg and I will be discussing why you need to work on your online branding, how patients remember the ambiance of a dental office more than the procedures they get there, the best design choices for your practice, and so much more. Are you ready to breathe new life into your office? Then tune in now! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Greg (02:10) Don't overlook your space (07:57) Why you need to redesign your space (13:22) How much does it cost to design your space? (24:20) Busting design myths (27:37) Time for the Q&A (33:17) — Connect with Greg: Instagram Facebook Website — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Transparency in dental marketing, especially when supported by real results and guarantees, always builds trust and helps dental practices achieve measurable success. And to be able to do this, you need to find a marketing agency that actually gets you the results you want. Easier said than done, right? Well, if you're tired of paying marketing agencies for dental marketing services that never deliver results, then this is the episode for you! In it, I sit down with Spencer McCutchen, a business development executive at Media NV. With over seven years of experience in the dental industry, Spencer specializes in helping dental professionals supercharge their digital marketing to bring in new patients on demand. Today, he and I will be discussing why marketing transparency is so important, how call tracking and data-driven coaching can significantly improve patient acquisition, why you need to use websites designed to convert visitors into booked appointments, and so much more. Want to learn more? Then tune in now! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Spencer (01:56) Transparency in marketing (05:47) The importance of call tracking (11:27) Let's talk about call coaching (18:30) Media NV's patient promise program (20:30) You need a website that converts (25:46) Time for our Q&A (26:51) — Connect with Spencer: Instagram Facebook — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

If you're relying on marketing alone to bring in new patients, then you're missing a HUGE piece of the puzzle: lead conversion. Lead generation and lead conversion are two completely different things, and this means they need completely different strategies.  To discuss this in more depth, I've invited an expert on this week's episode of the Raving Patients Podcast. His name is Jake Goates and he is the founder of GOAT Marketing Consultants and a seasoned expert in dental marketing and sales strategy. In the last decade, Jake has helped countless practices turn simple leads into loyal patients by implementing smarter systems, better accountability, and proven sales techniques. In this episode, Jake and I will be discussing how dental practices can convert leads into patients, Jake's “Goat Method”, the best ways to handle patient objections, why you need accountability measurements, and so much more. Are you ready? Let's dive in. — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Why a low new patient count isn't your marketer's fault (05:38) Lead management for dental practices (09:51) The Goat Method (12:48) How much should your marketing budget be? (15:29) Is your marketing working for you? (21:49) How to handle patient objections (24:29) Time for our Q&A (31:07) — Connect with Jake: Instagram Facebook Jake's LinkedIn GOAT Marketing Consultants LinkedIn — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

What makes your first phone call so important? As dentists, we often forget that the first impression we make—even on the phone—can go a long way. A practice's first interaction with a potential patient is critical in setting the tone for trust, connection, and care. And so, knowing how to deal with these phone calls and training your employees to do the same is a must for patient retention.  To discuss this in more detail, I've invited an expert on the podcast today. In this week's episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, I sit down with Susan Leckowicz, a  seasoned business development coach for dental practices and the CEO of Dental Coaches.  With over 20 years of experience as a dental hygienist and an extensive background in dentistry, Susan has been coaching dentists and their teams to create thriving practices that are both profitable and patient-centric. Listen in as Susan and I discuss why first impressions matter so much, the importance of training front-desk team members properly, how call recording can help you improve performance (and increase your profitability), why using the right language during phone calls with patients is a must, her Crush the Call bootcamp, and so much more. Are you ready to take your phone skills to the next level and grow your practice? Then run, don't walk, and tune in now! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Let's talk about Crush the Call (03:53) Why you need to train your team members to crush your calls (07:59) Why you need to record the calls at your clinic (10:25) The call score card (13:38) How to train new team members to answer the phone better (18:06) More about the Crush the Call bootcamp (23:38) Time for our Q&A (27:26) — Connect with Susan: **FREE** Scorecard Packet Crush the Call Bootcamp LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Website — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Are you overpaying for software that isn't serving your practice? In this episode, I sit down with Shayna Phipps-Holman, a dental software consultant with over 17 years of expertise in dental education and practice management. After a successful career with CEREC Doctors and gaining deep insights into dental software, Shayna has become a top advisor for dental practices looking to streamline their tech stacks without facing this overwhelming process alone. Shayna's experience spans everything from implementing cutting-edge AI solutions to rolling out multi-location practice software, and she's seen firsthand what tools drive success and which ones just add to the clutter. Today, talks about helping dental professionals avoid costly redundancies and optimize their software so that it truly fits their needs, reducing overlapping features and boosting efficiency. Whether you're managing a single office or a larger network, Shayna's insights will guide you through the software maze with ease. If you're ready to save money and make your software work for you, tune in to hear Shayna's expert advice! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Shayna Phipps-Holman's experience at the Supercharge event (01:36) About Shayna & her start in dentistry (03:28) From CEREC doctors to practice management (08:46) How Shayna helps practices find the best software (15:46) Cloud-based software & who should reach out to Shayna (21:29) Final thoughts & lighting round Q&A (24:54) — Connect with Shayna: LinkedIn InstagramWebsite — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Struggling to meet patient demand for holistic care? With 80% of patients seeking more natural, integrative options in healthcare, it's essential for dentists to see how myofunctional therapy can increase revenue while meeting this demand. To dive into the details, I'm joined by Karese Laguerre, founder of The Myo Spot and a leading expert in myofunctional therapy.  As a registered dental hygienist and myofunctional therapist, Karese has dedicated her career to bringing this powerful therapy to patients worldwide, helping them overcome airway issues, TMJ disorders, and more. In our conversation, we cover everything dentists and orthodontists need to know about myofunctional therapy, highlighting that it's an effective solution for airway, sleep, and broader dental issues that many practitioners overlook.  Karese also share insights on: How this service is a low-cost addition with substantial growth potential. How implementing this therapy looks like in a practice. And a look inside her event, Dental Culture Con. Tune in to learn how myofunctional therapy can position your practice to attract today's health-conscious patients and tap into a rapidly growing market. PS. Use promo code PODCAST to get 15% off your registration for The 2025 Dental Culture Con.  — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Karese Laguerre & what myofunctional therapy is (01:46) How myofunctional therapy can boost practice growth (07:17) An example of a myofunctional exercise (14:10) Integrating into dentistry & ortho (16:17) The predicted boom of integrative services (19:36) Myofunctional vs myofacial therapy & how to study it (21:12) More about Karese's event Dental Culture Con (22:44) Final thoughts & lighting round Q&A (25:29) — Connect with Karese:  Learn more about The Dental Culture Con. FacebookLinkedIn Instagram TikTok — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Wondering how much you really need to save to retire comfortably? Or how to best manage 401K plans for your employees? This episode has the answers. I'm joined by Kelly Richards, a partner advisor at Allworth Financial, who has nearly two decades of experience helping dentists transition from big spenders to big savers through strategic financial planning. We dive into the importance of maximizing your 401(k) with profit sharing and how Allworth Financial's low-cost platform can significantly boost your retirement savings.  Kelly also breaks down why ETFs are superior to mutual funds and explains the dangers of trying to time the market, which can cost you big time. From defining your "retirement number" to why you should only hire fiduciary advisors, this episode will put you on the right track to make smarter financial decisions.  Tune in now to learn how you can secure your future and grow your wealth. — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Kelly Richard's experience at Supercharge Your Dental Practice (00:46) Kelly's background & how he helps dental practices (04:09) 401K profit sharing & cash balance plans (06:46) Mutual funds vs. exchange traded funds (14:55) Finding your retirement “number” & timing the market (17:56) Final thoughts & lighting round Q&A (22:54) — Connect with Allworth Financial:  Website: https://allworthfinancial.com/ Email: kelly.richards@allworthfinancial.com   — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Most dentists focus solely on clinical excellence, which is expected. But when was the last time you paid attention to the financial health of your practice?  If it's been a while for you, then here's everything you need to know. In this episode, I sit down with Tim McNeely, founder and CEO of Dental Wealth Alliance, to talk about how dental professionals can eliminate financial confusion and fear. Tim brings his wealth management expertise to the table, focusing on key strategies that include tax mitigation, retirement planning, and practice exit strategies tailored specifically for dentists. From the five pillars of wealth management to the importance of stress testing your financial plan, this conversation uncovers everything you need to know to protect your practice and personal wealth.  If you're ready to make smart, strategic moves for your financial future…this episode is for you. Tune in! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Tim McNeely & the financial advice dentists need (03:01) The five key pillars of wealth management (07:11) How the rich manage their wealth (11:50) When you need a wealth management advisor (14:30) Is your advisor getting good results for you? (22:38) Stress testing your financial plans (25:45) Final thoughts & lighting round Q&A (28:44) — Connect with Tim:  Facebook  LinkedIn — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Are all the great insights from the dental conferences you assist gathering dust?  While investing in continuing education is a must for dental practice owners, it doesn't necessarily mean that the learnings are being put into practice. So, how do you take the step from knowledge to implementation?  Today, I sit down with Brenda McNulty, a dynamic leader in the dental industry with over 30 years of experience in both clinical and business settings.  As the owner of DSO Facts, Brenda excels in transforming dental practices by putting knowledge into action. Her work focuses on creating accountability systems and empowering teams to work efficiently, both in-office and remotely. In this episode, we tackle a problem many practices face: learning new strategies but failing to put them into practice. Brenda and I touch on how leadership, proper implementation plans, and accountability can take your practice from stagnant to thriving. We also touch on the difference between consulting and fractional training, how to monitor your KPIs, and much more.  If you're ready to stop wasting time and money and start turning your new knowledge into real results, then don't miss this episode. Tune in! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Brenda McNulty's take on leadership & implementation (02:06) Why accountability & implementation plans are a must (08:24) Tracking implementation plan performance (13:28) Consulting vs. Fractional Training Officer (19:26) Measuring ROI & getting external help for implementation (21:02) Final thoughts & lighting round Q&A (26:03) — Connect with Brenda:  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram DSO Facts Website — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Sometimes, all that's in the way of doubling your practice's growth is not having an office manager. In this episode, I sit down with Zachary Shelley, a leading dental office manager who's achieved incredible growth in just 4 years at Satellite Family Dentistry.  Zachary's journey to dental office management is unconventional — he went from professional skateboarder to dental lab manager, eventually landing the role at Satellite as its very first office manager.  And how is that going? Well, in this episode Zachary shares not only the changes he made as office manager but also how he's helped the practice retain over 88% of new patients, simply by focusing on elevating patient experience and team communication. Additionally, we talk about team culture and the power of creating a structured, supportive environment where the staff feels valued. Other themes include: Zachary's evolution in dentistry The value of ongoing education And tips for empowering staff. These growth-boosting insights are just a click away.  Tune in! — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) How Zachary Shelley became a dental office manager (01:42) The importance of continuing education (11:01) Zachary's method of creating a positive team culture (16:01) The hardest part of Zachary's job & improving communication (22:16) How to get 88% patient retention like Zachary does (24:09) Final thoughts & lighting round Q&A (27:58) — Join the Dental Office Manager Success Network to connect with Zachary and learn all about dental office management: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1043108050120371 — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Are your aligner treatments really boosting your practice's profitability, or just creating more headaches? There's a right and wrong way to approach certain cases, and GPs aren't necessarily equipped to take them all, despite what most aligner companies like to advertise. In this episode, I sit down with Lou Chmura, founder of Egghead Orthodontics and Ortho Mastery Advisors, and an orthodontic expert with over 35 years of clinical practice experience.  Lou sold his practice in 2022 and now dedicates his time to teaching and consulting, helping dentists and orthodontists incorporate technology for improving patient outcomes. With deep expertise in both orthodontics and general dentistry, Lou possesses a unique POV on integrating orthodontic treatments into a general practice successfully. We chat about a big issue with aligner treatments: the misleading nature of their ads that promise increased production but fail to address the importance of completing cases efficiently.  Additionally, Lou brings up how you can set your aligner cases up for success all the way to completion, which involves thorough diagnosis and proper case staging, from IPR to monitoring techniques. He also shares the hidden costs in aligner treatments and introduces the concept of hybrid cases for more complex scenarios. If you're ready to maximize your practice's success with aligners, don't miss Lou's tips on mitigating the challenges you may face. — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Lou Chmura & how he helps practices with ortho treatments (01:28) Why aligner advertisements misleading (04:59) What does it take to be more efficient with orthodontic treatments? (09:03) What GPs should focus on when setting up orthodontic cases (15:51) Ensuring proper case selection (21:00) Final thoughts & lightning round Q&A with Lou (26:22) — Connect with Dr. Lou Chmurra on Instagram.  — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Most dental professionals will agree that one of the most frustrating things about accepting insurance is dealing with low reimbursements or the overwhelming credentialing process you have to go through.  And when it comes to collections, surely you're feeling the pinch. But what if I told you there's a way to increase your revenue without changing your workload. In this episode, I sit down with Angela Holland, a returning guest and an expert in dental insurance credentialing and fee negotiations. With over 15 years of proven insurance expertise, Angela is on a mission to help practices maximize revenue with no additional work required.  She shares her insights on how outsourcing fee negotiations with Preferred Dental Solutions can unlock new revenue streams for dental practices by optimizing insurance fee schedules and the credentialing process. We also cover: How to negotiate insurance fees from day one. The role of TPAs vs. direct contracting with insurance companies. Why it's critical to revisit and renegotiate your fee schedules every two years. The essential steps for proper credentialing to avoid revenue loss. If you're ready to make more from your insurance collections and streamline your practice's financials, this episode is for you! Tune in.  — Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Meet Angela and her move from billing to insurance credentialing (01:36) Angela explains the credentialing & fee negotiation process (08:41) Choose between TPAs and direct contracts carefully (15:09) Boosting your revenue through insurance fee negotiations (17:47) Final thoughts & lightning round Q&A with Angela (24:39) — Book a free consultation with Angela at Preferred Dental Solutions. — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Have you noticed the staff at your dental practice a bit tired and unmotivated? Are they working to the point of burnout?  This is an extremely relatable scenario in the healthcare space, but there's a solution that's rising in popularity, and it can transform your practice — virtual assistants. In this episode, I sit down with Rebecca Herring, a seasoned dental coach from Transformational Dental Coaching. She's here to share how offshore virtual assistants (VAs) can be the modern dental practice's secret weapon when it comes to improving the patient experience, reducing stress for your team, and minimizing overhead. We also chat about: The importance of ongoing training for your front desk team The critical role SOPs play in effective training Strategies for smart revenue cycle management And much more. Ready to make things run more smoothly at your practice and make room for your in-office staff to focus on providing a high-quality, white-glove service to patients? Then, this episode is for you! Tune in.  — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Rebecca & her approach to dental coaching (02:06) The benefits of using virtual assistants (06:43) The disadvantages of hiring VAs (16:58) Importance of SOPs in ensuring consistency & efficiency (19:52) Effective strategies for revenue cycle management (23:09) Credit card payment fees: who absorbs that cost? (28:11) Lightning round Q&A with Rebecca & how to connect (31:27) — Book a Free Strategy Call with Rebecca at Transformational Dental Coaching:  LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Email — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. —     Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Are you spreading yourself too thin by trying to master everything in your dental practice? Well, let me tell you…it doesn't lead to long-term success.  In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Cottingham, a dental consultant and CEO of Incito Enterprises, who shares her journey from dental assisting to leading multiple practices. Sarah is here to share how important it is to find “the one thing”  that really brings you joy and brings out the best in you as a dental professional.  Her insights on mindful leadership are a must-listen for any dentist struggling with burnout or looking to elevate their team's performance and take their practice to the next level. We talk about how crucial it is to avoid being a “super GP” and instead, specialize in what you do best, while referring out tasks that don't align with your expertise. We also cover essential topics like: Serving yourself first to better serve others The impact of mindful leadership on team dynamics The importance of tracking meaningful metrics to drive your practice's success And much more. If you're ready to unlock the full potential of your dental practice by focusing on what truly matters? Tune in.  — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Sarah & how she helps dental practices (01:38) Unlocking success with mindful leadership (04:10) Finding that “one thing” you excel at vs. doing everything (08:15) Inspiring your team to show up as career-minded individuals (16:32) Driving business results by focusing on what's important to you (20:10) About Sarah's event “Serving the Servant” (22:02) Lightning round Q&A with Sarah & how to connect (24:02) — Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn and Instagram. — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Is your dental practice doing the mistake of running on a patchwork of different software solutions? If so, it may be time to consider The Dental App if you're serious about growth. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lior Tamir, founder of The Dental App and a successful dental practice owner. Lior shares his unique journey from dentistry to software development and how his frustration with existing tools led him to create a groundbreaking, full dental practice management solution. With a background in both dentistry and technology, Lior's hard work is now a tool that integrates business processes seamlessly, helping practices grow and operate more efficiently. We go deeper into how The Dental App is revolutionizing dental practice management by consolidating various functions — like patient follow-ups and treatment scheduling — into one streamlined platform. Lior also explains how this innovative tool not only simplifies operations but also drives significant growth for practices. We also cover extra topics like the challenges of switching software, cloud vs. on-premise servers, the importance of patient experience, and more. Ready for an all-in-one solution that will make your practice run smoother and grow faster? Tune in and learn all about The Dental App.  PS. Use code “raving” to get $100 off on The Dental App when you register. — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Lior Tamir & his start in dentistry (01:23) What leveled up Lior's dental practice + Yelp reviews (07:31) How The Dental App turned into what it is today (16:14) The challenge behind switching software as a practice owner (24:39) Lightning round Q&A with Lior & how to connect (31:33) — Additional Resources: Find the mentioned book “Unreasonable Hospitality” here. Learn more about The Dental App here.  Connect with Lior on LinkedIn. — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Is your fee-for-service (FFS) practice struggling to stand out and get new patients? Beyond quality care, there are several things at play when it comes to marketing an FFS practice, and today we uncover the biggest barrier…your team. My guest is Naiara Wireman, a practice development coach at SMC, and she specializes in delivering exceptional patient experiences and developing effective internal marketing strategies.  We dive into the importance of patient experience in fee-for-service practices, highlighting the need for consistent systems that ensure every patient interaction is top-notch. Naiara shares actionable strategies for internal marketing, training staff to communicate your practice's unique value, and why your team's mentality is crucial in a fee-for-service model. We also discuss innovative marketing approaches, ways to enhance the employee experience, and tips for handling patient calls effectively. Tune in to discover how to elevate your practice and turn satisfied patients into raving fans. PS. If you own a fee-for-service practice or work at one and are looking to grow your raving patients, book a free marketing strategy call with Naiara at SMC. — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Naiara Wireman & her entry into dentistry (01:45)  New ways to enhance patient experience (05:08) The crucial role of team education in fee-for-service practices (10:21) Enhancing the employee experience in the practice (15:37) Marketing ideas for fee-for-service practices (20:05) Free marketing strategy call offer + lightning round Q&A (28:40) — Connect with Naiara: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Email: Naiarawireman@gmail.com — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

Many dentists shy away from orthodontics due to its complicated and time-consuming nature. But what if there was a simpler way to do it and make up to $1,400 per hour without being an orthodontic specialist? This episode shows you the way. I'm joined by Dr. Dan German, the founder, CEO, and chief orthodontist of orthobrain®, a groundbreaking subscription-based consulting platform that equips general and pediatric dentists to confidently deliver orthodontic care. Dan's expertise spans interceptive orthodontics, aligner therapy, digital braces placement, and 3D imaging. With a career that includes owning one of the largest orthodontic practices in the country and earning accolades like the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Louisville, Dan clearly knows how to build success in orthodontics. Today, Dan shares how, through orthobrain's turnkey system and virtual orthodontic team, any GP can provide high-level ortho care, generating greater profits and creating raving fans. We also chat about the unexpected benefits of orthodontics, effective patient communication, and the keys to internal marketing that can turn your existing patients into orthodontic clients. Ready to 10x your profits? Tune in now and discover how orthobrain can make it happen.  — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Dan German & orthobrain® (01:35)  How adding orthodontics with 10x your profitability (11:13) The unexpected benefits of offering orthodontics (14:38) Choosing between aligners, braces, & expanders, & finding these patients (18:37) Growing beyond your existing patient base & Dan's final thoughts (23:46) Lightning round Q&A with Dan (27:39) — Connect with Dan at orthobrain®: Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Is your dental practice losing revenue despite your best efforts? If so…you might be missing out on several opportunities within your dental practice.  Want to learn how to capitalize on them? This episode is for you. My guest is Sandy Pardue from Classic Practice Resources. Sandy is a renowned keynote speaker, author, and consultant specializing in dental practice management. With over 500 practices served under her belt since 1993, Sandy has earned a reputation as the "systems guru" for her expertise in developing and implementing effective dental office systems. Dentistry Today Magazine has recognized Sandy as a leader in dental consulting speaking every year since 2003 thanks to her entertaining yet practical style, which has inspired countless dental teams to enhance productivity and profitability. She's joining me today to talk about the 3 R's of Practice Management — retention, reactivation, and recall — and explain how simple adjustments can lead to significant improvements on your bottom line. Sandy shares her insights on missed opportunities in scheduling patients, the importance of proper phone etiquette, how to balance automation with a personal touch to boost patient retention, and much more. Tune in for practice advice that every dental practice can start implementing today! PS. Interested in getting $100 OFF on Sandy's Front Desk Pro or Office Management Pro Training Events? Visit Classic Practice Resources and use promo code “Secret Sauce”.  — Key Takeaways: Introduction (00:00) Meet Sandy Pardue & her consulting company, Classic Practice Resources (01:36) Missed opportunities when scheduling patients (04:04) The Rs of practice management (16:28) KPIs to monitor for dental practice efficiency (24:43) Sandy's offerings through Classic Practice Resources (27:16) Lightning round Q&A with Sandy (30:01) — Connect with Sandy at Classic Practice Resources:  Facebook  Instagram — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here.  Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques here. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists.  Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Shockingly, only 1% of hygienists in the US are using the latest in dental endoscopy tech to bring in more revenue to their dental practices. Today, we're going to take a deeper look into how dental endoscopy not only double your hygienist's revenue, but also empower and motivate their work in your practice. I'm joined by Kristen Ranaldo, an experienced dental hygienist and surgical assistant, and Dr. Aziz Bohra, an innovative periodontist and the founder of PerioView, to discuss this game-changing technology and how it can help boost your practice's income through referrals and treatment acceptance. We start off by going in depth into the advancements and reaches of dental endoscopy in periodontal procedures. Kristen and Dr. Bohra explain how this technology, used in tandem with scaling and root planing or laser-assisted periodontal therapy, leads to better and more predictable results. Additionally, we cover the practical and financial aspects of implementing dental endoscopy, its diagnostic benefits, and how it can keep periodontal treatment in-house. If you're looking to stay ahead and keep more patients within your walls, be sure to listen to this one!  — Key Takeaways: Meet Kristen Ranaldo and Aziz Bohra (00:00) What is dental endoscopy & how does it help dental practices? (03:12) Implementing dental endoscopy in the practice (08:26) The economics, ROI, and procedures you can do with endoscopy (11:03) Why dental endoscopy has been overlooked (22:45) Lightning Round Q&A With Kristen and Aziz (25:29) — Additional Resources: Learn more about PerioView here. Connect with Kristen on Instagram. Connect with Aziz: aziz@perioview.com — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques here. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists.  Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

Are you a new dentist feeling overwhelmed and unsure about your career path? Dr. Cole Herzik's journey might be just the inspiration you need. Dr. Herzik, a recent dental school graduate, is already making waves in our industry. As the CEO of the Private Dentist Alliance and founder of the MAN nonprofit, Cole shares his unique approach to finding purpose in dentistry beyond clinical practice. Dr. Herzik's proactive approach to learning and networking led him to perform advanced procedures and speak at conferences within a year of graduation. For Dr. Herzik, mentorship has been a cornerstone of his professional development. He firmly believes that by learning from those who have walked the path before him, he can avoid pitfalls and accelerate his growth. "I want to pick all those people's brains so that I don't have to make as many mistakes or fall into those pitfalls or have those negative things happen to me along the path," he says. He reveals how it all started with a single Facebook friend request and how mentorship and continuous education have shaped his career so far. Dr. Herzik also discusses his ambitious vision for improving dental education as well as the importance of understanding the business side of dentistry. Don't miss this conversation that encourages you to find your "why" in dentistry. Tune in now! — Key Takeaways: Dr. Herzik's journey from dental student to CEO (00:00) Importance of mentorship in dentistry (06:52) Finding your "why" in dentistry (12:55) His extensive CE journey post-graduation (16:43) The Private Dentist Alliance and improving dental education (20:40) Importance of business knowledge for dentists (26:31) Lightning round Q&A with Cole (28:46) — Connect with Dr. Cole Herzik: Instagram Private Dental Alliance The M.A.N Podcast — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here.   Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques with Dr. Len Tau.  This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists.  Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Are you fed up with your annoying patients or those whose insurance leaves little to no profit?  What if I told you that there's a way to focus on your ideal patient, work less, and still make 7 figures?! This episode's guest spills the secret. Learn the secrets to dental practice management from a business coach who turned his wife's practice into a seven-figure success. I'm excited to welcome Kirk Teachout, a business coach, serial entrepreneur, and bestselling author. He's the mastermind behind the Seven Figure Dentist program through IV Quarter Coaching, and he comes with practical insights and strategies for optimizing dental practice management and helping practice owners achieve growth without burning out. Kirk shares his journey of transforming his wife's dental practice into a 7-figure business by focusing on ideal patients and implementing efficient systems. He emphasizes that you don't need to work all week or perform fancy procedures to run a successful, revenue-generating practice.  We also chat about enhancing patient experience, the importance of team management, and cultivating a positive practice culture.  Listen now to be one step closer to more time off, more profits, and enjoyable practice ownership. — Key Takeaways: Meet Kirk Teachout & his entry into the dental world (00:00) How to work 3 days a week and have a 7-figure practice (05:50) The hardest part of running a dental practice: team management (09:52) What practice owners should focus on (13:07) The importance of patient experience, practice culture & examples (20:22) Lightning Round Q&A With Kirk (29:46) — Additional Resources: Get the Free Treatment Acceptance Blueprint here. Learn more about The Seven Figure Dentist here. Connect with Kirk Teachout: Instagram Facebook TikTok X — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques here. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

About 80% of dentists are undervaluing what their practice is worth! A shocking number, don't you think? The fact is, several dentists wait until they slow down to sell without realizing that their practice value is highest when they're at their peak.  To share everything you need to know to get the most bang out of your buck when selling is this episode's guest, Michelle Hedgecock.  Michelle is a clinical researcher and a former dental surgeon, and owned two thriving practices in Austin, Texas. After having to sell at 42, she realized how ill-prepared doctors are when it comes to selling and determining the fair market value of their business. This experience ultimately drove her to become a business development associate with Connect The Dents, where she performs practice valuations and guides doctors in determining the best options and timings for selling their business. How practice valuations can help you plan for the future, tips on increasing the fair market value of your practice, what EBITDA is, and when doctors should consider selling for max profit are some main themes of this conversation.  Michelle and I also touch on the different types of buyers, including individual doctors, DSO's, and DPO's, and what types of practices are ideal for each. Tune in to learn more about how Michelle and the unique valuation process and matching program at Connect The Dents can save you 6-10% in selling costs.  PS. Get a $300 discount on a practice valuation with Connect The Dents. Just say you heard them at the Raving Patients Podcast. — Key Takeaways: Meet Dr. Michelle Hedgecock & her experience with selling her practice (00:00) Explaining EBITDA & how fair market value is determined (06:17) When to get your practice valuated (11:48) When to consider selling your practice & increasing its fair market value (16:14) The difference between a private sale and a DSO/DPO sale (23:07) How matching program at Connect The Dents works (28:55) Lightning Round Q&A With Michelle (31:55) — Additional Resources: Learn more about Connect The Dents here or on their LinkedIn. — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September here. Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques here. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Are you creating quality video content for your practice? Chances are, you're not doing it enough! Short-form video content has been on the rise for quite a few years now. So, now, more than ever, dental practices have to lean into this tool to boost patient engagement and compliance. But how do you create content that goes beyond just basic information? Today's guest is here to share all about it.  Janelle Baum is a cutting-edge orthodontic influencer that's using the power of social media and video content to transform dental practices  —  and businesses in general, too. With over seven years of experience as an orthodontic treatment coordinator and a background in theater and improv, Janelle delivers a one-of-a-kind approach to patient interactions. It starts by using short, engaging videos to inform and entertain patients at different stages of their journey, boosting case acceptance, helping them know what to expect before an appointment, and everything they need to follow during their treatment. This episode is packed with insights, such as how medical professionals can humanize themselves through short-form videos and how to make patients feel more at ease with procedures. Janelle also advocates for actively involving patients in social media content creation, which not only boosts the practice's visibility and improves patient compliance, but also creates a vibrant office culture that spreads through word of mouth. Plus, she shares how practices can leverage feedback systems like Avius tablets to gain honest reviews directly from children.  If you're looking to stand out with video content, this is the episode to listen to. Tune in! — Key Takeaways: Meet Janelle Baum & her start as a treatment coordinator (00:00) How Janelle helps orthodontic offices (05:34) Cultivating a vibrant office culture (11:33) Who in the dental practice should be doing the videos (17:02) Social media as a growth engine for dental practices (21:14) Video campaigns for enhanced patient engagement (25:32) A full breakdown of Janelle's services (30:45) Lightning Round Q&A With Janelle (35:03) — Additional Resources: Connect with Janelle:  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_ortho_influencer Email: janelle@theorthodonticinfluencer.com Website: https://theorthodonticinfluencer.com/ Check out Kaleidoscope Orthodontic Digital Marketing: https://thekaleidoscope.com/ Learn more about Avius: https://avius.com/facilities-management-customer-satisfaction-surveys/ — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September: https://superchargeyourdentalpractice.com/ Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Here's a shocking fact: on average, most dental offices miss at least 30% of their incoming calls.  Just imagine all the potential revenue slipping through the cracks just because your staff is too busy to address those calls. Today, I'm bringing you a solution to this!  In this episode, I sit down with Breanna McMillen, head of sales at Peerlogic, to find out how conversational AI can improve patient calls and transform dental practice revenue. Breanna's 20-year journey in dentistry, from hygiene assistant to overseeing multi-location operations and later becoming a dental-specific myofunctional therapist before transitioning to the tech and sales leadership side of dentistry, make her a guest with a remarkable breadth of knowledge. We go deep into how Peerlogic's conversational AI can streamline front office tasks and take call monitoring to the next level, securing fewer missed opportunities and more revenue generation. The technology listens to calls, identifies missed opportunities, and helps staff follow up efficiently, making it a revolutionary tool for front office operations for nearly every type of dental practice. Breanna also shares the broader implications of AI in dentistry, addressing common misconceptions and sharing the exciting future developments in responsive AI that will further enhance patient engagement. Listen now to learn how AI can help your practice capitalize on every single phone call! PS. If you decide to sign up for Peerlogic, mention the Raving Patients Podcast to get 2 months free. — Key Takeaways: Meet Breanna McMillen & What Peerlogic Is (00:00) Practices that can benefit from Peerlogic & the importance of phone calls (04:09) Breanna's take on AI in dentistry (08:39) The difference between AI insights and call tracking metrics (10:19) Using AI to handle missed opportunities, call volume, and insurance (14:04) The future of Peerlogic & reconnecting with missed calls (19:56) Implementing Peerlogic in your dental practice & final thoughts (22:26) Lightning Round Q&A With Breanna (26:10) — Additional Resources: Schedule a demo for Peerlogic here: http://www.peerlogic.com Connect with Breanna on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/breanna-mcmillen-09820920a/ — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September: https://superchargeyourdentalpractice.com/ Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

In today's episode, we tackle a huge pain point for dentists: the sky-high prices for equipment.  A not-so-widely-known fact is that there's a dental tax on equipment. In other words, one machine will be much more expensive for a dentist than for a veterinarian. But there's an innovative tech platform that can help dental professionals find the best deals through data and AI, and today's guest is going to share everything you need to know about it. Yasin Abbak is the founder of GroupUps, a new-age DSO for independent businesses. He has an impressive background, having previously founded and sold a sports tech platform with over 1 million customers and a supply chain tech platform for independent restaurants.  With GroupUps, Yasin is revolutionizing the way small dental practices purchase equipment by leveraging data and AI to negotiate better pricing and organize group purchases. His goal to empower independently owned businesses to make smarter decisions and operate more efficiently has the potential to create a big shift in the industry. In our conversation, we talk about how this advanced tool helps practices save money on dental equipment. Yasin also shares key strategies on when and how to negotiate, identifying leverage points for effective bargaining, and the long-term costs of overspending. Ready to transform your purchasing power and secure the best deals for your practice? Tune in! PS. There's an exclusive freebie for all Raving Patients Podcast listeners! Claim a FREE Rate My Quote analysis by visiting https://www.groupups.com/, filling out your wish list, and letting them know Dr. Len Tau sent you.  — Key Takeaways: Meet Yasin Abbak & his company, GroupUps (00:00) Yasin explains how GroupUps operates & leverages data & AI (06:50) Getting better pricing on equipment & group purchasing (15:14) The importance of avoiding overspending (23:01) Negotiation tactics for dentists (26:17) Get your FREE Rate My Quote analysis by GroupUps (29:30) Lightning Round Q&A With Yasin (31:53) — Additional Resources: Learn more about GroupUps: https://www.groupups.com/ Follow GroupUps on Facebook: https://facebook.com/trygroupups — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September:  https://superchargeyourdentalpractice.com/ Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Dentists often find content creation both time-consuming and intimidating, as it can seem quite out of their wheelhouse. But content marketing is not just for the savvy digital marketers. If done the right way, this powerful tool can help dentists create deeper and more trusting relationships with both existing and potential patients. So, how can you use content creation to attract new patients and grow your practice? I have the perfect guest to answer this. I am joined by Melanie Deziel, an author, keynote speaker, and award-winning branded content creator who has helped countless businesses unlock their creative potential. Her credentials include innovative work at the New York Times and Time Inc. In this episode, Melanie unpacks how tailored content can help dental practices attract new patients and build trust in an increasingly skeptical consumer environment. She explains why content is important, how to generate content ideas, and how to find time to create. We also talk about optimizing your Google Business Profile, selecting the right social media platforms for a targeted audience, and engaging patients with various content formats. Whether you're new to content creation or looking to refine your approach, you don't want to miss this episode. Tune in to learn from one of the best in the business and start applying these expert strategies in your dental practice marketing today. PS. Use code RAVING at http://melaniedeziel.com/store to save 20% on any of the digital resources for helping you create better content, including The Content Fuel Framework Workbook, which has prompts and activities to help you generate 1000+ original content ideas! — Key Takeaways: Intro (00:00) Melanie's Background and Career Journey (01:03) Importance of Content in a Dental Practice (04:56) Choosing the Right Social Media Platforms (06:44) Content as a Trust-Building Tool (13:34) Engaging Content Formats (17:49) Creating Content Ideas for Dental Practices (21:14) Tips for Optimizing Your Google Business Profile (24:12) Lightning Round Q&A With Melanie (32:27) — Additional Resources: Visit Melanie's website: https://www.melaniedeziel.com/  Connect with Melanie Deziel: LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/melaniedeziel Instagram: http://instagram.com/meldeziel Twitter: http://twitter.com/mdeziel Threads: http://threads.net/meldeziel — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September: https://superchargeyourdentalpractice.com/ Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Hiring is hard, but hiring non-clinical staff for dental practices is harder. If you've been using employment websites, you know by now that half the candidates are unqualified and several will end up ghosting you. The result is limited options, leading dental practices to recruit subpar employees that won't stay for long.  So, how can you find and retain team members that truly align with your practice's culture and values? The answer is in this episode! Today's guest is Allison Norris, the founder and CEO of The Dentele Group, LLC and a former dental hygienist. She left clinical dentistry in 2018 to pursue a non-clinical career, which eventually led to starting her recruiting agency that specializes in placing candidates into non-clinical roles. In this episode, Allison and I talk about the dos and don'ts for effective dental practice recruitment, particularly for non-clinical positions. Allison shares the importance of a strong online reputation, how to craft compelling job postings, and the need for thorough candidate screenings to guarantee a perfect fit. She also sheds light on how her agency approaches the hiring process for its clients. If staff turnover has been a challenge for you, this episode is packed with actionable advice to get better results in your recruiting efforts! Tune in to learn how to find the perfect team. PS. Allison is offering 10% off on her recruiting services to all Raving Patients Podcast listeners. Just reach out to her and say you heard the offer here! — Key Takeaways: Meet Allison Norris & How She Got Into Recruiting (00:00) Successfully Recruiting The Right Person Through Allison's Service (04:44) Negative Employer Reviews on Hiring Websites (12:35) The Importance of Creating Great Job Descriptions (17:19) What To Do When An Ex-Employee Retaliates (22:14) Lightning Round Q&A With Allison (25:02) — Additional Resources: Learn more about The Dentele Group here: https://thedentelegroup.com/ Connect with Allison Norris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonnorris/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allison.norris904/ — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September:  https://superchargeyourdentalpractice.com/ Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

How many times have you confused one dental practice with another? I know I have!  It's tricky for dental practices to stand out when it comes to branding. Several use generic stock images and cookie-cutter templates to push content online, missing that one thing that truly sets them apart — authenticity. In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Ruberg, a seasoned branding expert in the dental industry, to break down the strategies that will supercharge your dental practice's branding.  Sarah is the founder of Our Thrive Tribe and has dedicated her career to helping dental practices and industry partners excel in the dynamic landscape of DSO's. With expertise in personal and corporate branding, she empowers practices to reach their full potential, expand their reach, and achieve significant growth.  From actionable strategies for establishing an authentic brand presence to expanding your network the right way, this episode is packed with tips every dental professional needs to know to solidify themselves as a trusted authority.  Plus, we touch on the importance of outward engagement on social media, the benefits of live networking events, and the questions to ask yourself when defining your unique selling proposition.  Tune in now to learn how to TRULY stand out in the dental industry! — Key Takeaways: Meet Sarah Ruberg & How She Entered The DSO Space (00:00) Sarah Explains Why Having A Brand Is Important (06:17) Branding Your Practice & Finding What Makes You Unique (10:18) Sarah's Insights on Leveraging Social Media (17:31) Overcoming The Fear of An Online Self-Promotion (23:51) The Power of Networking (25:23) Lightning Round Q&A With Sarah (29:20) — Additional Resources: Connect with Sarah Ruberg at Our Thrive Tribe:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ourthrivetribe_/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joinourthrivetribe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ourthrivetribe/ Website: https://ourthrivetribe.co/contact/ — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September:  https://superchargeyourdentalpractice.com/ Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!

Have you planned an exit strategy for your dental practice? It's commonplace to draft a business plan, but the roadmap for selling and exiting and doing so for max profits is often overlooked. Also, most dentists give themselves too little time and typically overestimate its worth due to emotional attachment. So what do dentists need to know to have an efficient and profitable exit? You're going to find out in this episode.  Today, I'm speaking with Brian Michaud from the Encompass Group LLC. He has extensive experience working with business owners, especially dental practitioners, in planning their exits effectively and has a wealth of knowledge on strategically maximizing practice value.  We discuss the optimal timeline that allows you to make all the necessary adjustments and transition plans for your dental practice sale. Brian also explains the difference between emotional and financial valuations and how to set your expectations realistically. Additionally, we touch on the four main exit strategies, succession planning, and tax strategies that can enhance the perceived value of your practice. If you're looking to sell, this is an episode you can't miss!  Tune in to learn how to get the most out of your exit strategy planning and guarantee you get the most value from your years of hard work. — Key Takeaways: Meet Brian Michaud (00:00) How To Know When You Should Exit Your Dental Practice (05:27) An Overview of The 4 Ways To Exit Your Practice & Examples (10:20) The Emotional Number vs. The Financial Number (17:06) Exit Strategy Tax Advice & Other Financial Considerations (20:45) Lightning Round Q&A With Brian (27:44)   — Additional Resources: Learn more about Brian & Encompass Group here: https://www.encompass-group.com/ — Learn about the upcoming Supercharge Your Dental Practice 2-day event in September: https://superchargeyourdentalpractice.com/ Use code RAVING to save $100 on registration. — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at: https://www.drlentau.com This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more at: https://www.dentalintel.com/ This podcast is sponsored by The Doc Sites, the leading provider of websites and online marketing for dentists. Find out more at: https://www.docsites.com/ Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!