ZenOne Podcast

SummaryIn this episode of the Zen One Podcast, host Tiger Safarov speaks with Rick Van Arnam, a partner at a global trade law firm, about the complexities of tariffs and their implications for the dental industry. They discuss the historical context of tariffs in the U.S., recent developments under the Trump and Biden administrations, and the specific impact on dental products. The conversation also covers the challenges faced by dental practices due to rising costs and the strategies they can employ to mitigate these effects. Finally, they explore the future outlook on tariffs and trade, emphasizing the need for dentists to stay informed and adaptable.About Rick Van Arnam, Jr: https://www.barnesrichardson.com/frederic-d-van-arnam-jr Sign up for weekly newsletter: https://barnesrichardson.us19.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ee2d5d12615d46d021dbf4c75&id=bac681c49a TakeawaysTariffs have a long history in the U.S., dating back to 1789.The China 301 tariffs have significantly impacted dental products.Recent tariff policies have created uncertainty for importers.Dentists may face increased costs due to rising tariffs on dental supplies.The importer is responsible for paying tariffs, not the foreign exporter.Mitigation strategies include negotiating with suppliers and diversifying vendors.The pause on certain tariffs may provide temporary relief for importers.Future trade negotiations could alter current tariff rates.Smaller distributors may struggle more than larger ones in the current market.Staying informed about tariff changes is crucial for dental practices.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Tariffs and Trade Law(01:12) Historical Context of Tariffs in the U.S.(03:12) The China 301 Tariffs Explained(07:01) IEPA Tariffs and Their Implications(09:55) Reciprocal Tariffs and Their Impact(12:14) Current Tariff Rates and Their Effects(16:04) Dental Products and Tariff Challenges(22:43) Mitigation Strategies for Dentists(28:18) Future of Tariffs and Trade Relations(36:43) Conclusion and Resources for Dentists

SummaryIn this episode of the Zen One podcast, Tiger Safarov interviews Jordan Lorenz from Dental City about the implementation of automation and robotics in their warehouse. They discuss the evolution of Dental City, the importance of supply chain excellence, and how robotics enhance efficiency while maintaining human oversight. The conversation also covers the challenges faced during the project kickoff, the feedback received from the industry, and the customer-centric approach that drives their operations. Looking ahead, they explore the future of supply chain management in the dental industry and the importance of being prepared for unforeseen challenges.About Jordan Lorenz:- LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-lorenz-b3bb311b/TakeawaysAutomation allows for faster order processing and shipping.Robotics enhance efficiency while maintaining human oversight.The success of the project relied on meticulous planning and execution.Feedback from the industry has been largely positive, with minimal complaints.A customer-centric approach is essential for distribution success.The integration of technology prepares the company for future challenges.Human verification remains crucial in the automation process.The culture within the organization supports innovation and adaptation.Maintaining a single distribution center can enhance quality control.The flexibility of being a privately held company allows for quick adaptations.Chapters(00:00) Introduction to Automation in Dental Distribution(02:47) The Role of Robotics in Supply Chain Excellence(06:04) Human-Robot Collaboration in the Warehouse(09:06) Project Kickoff and Implementation Challenges(11:53) Feedback and Industry Response(14:59) Customer-Centric Approach in Distribution(17:58) Future of Supply Chain in Dental Practices

SummaryIn this conversation, Tiger Safarov and Christine Cisson discuss the evolving landscape of remote talent in the dental industry. They explore the challenges and opportunities presented by remote work, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Christine shares insights on how dental practices can effectively integrate remote team members, the importance of technology in bridging communication gaps, and the necessity of measuring productivity. They also touch on the implications of AI in dental practices and the significance of having a US-based workforce. In this conversation, Christine and Tiger discuss the evolving landscape of remote work in dental practices. They explore the streamlined hiring process, the importance of onboarding, and the competition for global talent. Christine emphasizes the need for dental practices to adapt their organizational structures and job descriptions to maximize productivity and revenue. They also address the challenges of measuring performance for remote team members and the inertia within the dental industry regarding remote work. The conversation concludes with insights on navigating employee turnover and the importance of creating a new narrative around remote work in dentistry.About Christine Sison:- LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-sison-a029a31/- Schedule a call: https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ3Kcu8qdW_i7-YfW5wO3dFNd9jrvZYqiKkB4I-Xjy7iCwqFqz47Idqx7dvj8WXvjKl_zaPzzeGU - contact email: christine@swissmonkey.io - website: www.swissmonkey.ioTakeawaysOutsourcing in dentistry has been around for a long time.The COVID-19 pandemic has created a labor shortage in dental practices.Remote work can enhance patient experience if done correctly.Onboarding remote staff requires a structured process.Technology can facilitate communication between on-site and remote teams.Measuring productivity is essential for remote team success.Not all tasks should be outsourced; focus on non-patient-facing roles.Practices need to have clear workflows for remote integration.AI is poised to change the dental industry significantly.A US-based workforce can provide better service in dental practices. Remote hiring can significantly speed up the recruitment process.Onboarding can be completed quickly with the right technology.Global talent competition is reshaping job expectations in dentistry.Organizational structure is crucial for effective team management.Maximizing team productivity can lead to increased revenue.Performance metrics should be tailored to specific roles.Adopting remote work requires overcoming industry inertia.Building trust in remote work models is essential for success.Employee turnover can be managed with proper systems in place.Creating a flexible staffing model can help address workforce shortages.Chapters(00:00) The Rise of Remote Talent in Dentistry(03:05) Overcoming Control Issues with Remote Teams(05:48) Technology Bridging the Gap(09:10) Measuring Productivity and Performance(12:01) Identifying the Right Time for Remote Integration(15:03) Onboarding and Evaluating Remote Staff(18:09) The Importance of Location in Remote Staffing(20:53) The Future of AI in Dental Practices(23:18) Streamlined Hiring Process for Dental Practices(24:43) Onboarding and Interviewing Candidates(26:12) Global Talent Competition in Dentistry(27:29) Organizational Structure and Job Descriptions(29:08) Maximizing Team Productivity and Revenue(31:00) Measuring Performance of Remote Team Members(33:42) Challenges in Adopting Remote Work in Dentistry(35:56) Building a New Narrative for Remote Work(38:53) Navigating Employee Turnover and Business Continuity

Summary In this episode of the Zen One Podcast, Tiger Safarov interviews Karla-Marie Santiago, a senior director of strategic partnerships at SupplyDoc, to discuss the role of Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) in the dental industry. They explore the benefits of GPOs for independent practices, the different types of GPOs, and the importance of procurement strategies. Karla shares insights on evaluating GPOs, the challenges of adoption, and the significance of customer service in ensuring a positive experience for members. In this conversation, Karla-Marie Santiago and Tiger Safarov delve into the complexities of Group Purchasing Organizations (GPOs) in the dental industry. They discuss the challenges of adoption, the importance of relationships in negotiations, and the critical factors to consider when evaluating GPOs. The conversation highlights the role of vendor relationships, the significance of pricing and utilization, and when practices should consider engaging with GPOs based on their growth goals and procurement strategies. Takeaways GPOs leverage collective buying power for better pricing. Independent practices can benefit significantly from joining GPOs. Different GPOs have unique value propositions and structures. Understanding the types of GPOs is crucial for making informed decisions. Customer service and communication are vital for GPO success. Procurement encompasses more than just purchasing; it's about strategy. Adoption of GPOs can be challenging due to various factors. GPOs should provide tools to simplify data management for members. Evaluating GPOs requires understanding their offerings and contracts. The relationship between GPOs and vendors is key to member satisfaction. Adoption of GPOs can be challenging due to data gathering issues. Having a single point of contact is crucial for effective relationship management. Investment in relationships is key to achieving ROI with GPOs. Evaluating GPOs requires understanding their partnerships and pricing structures. Utilization of contracts is essential for maximizing savings. Strong relationships can lead to better pricing negotiations. Reps play a significant role in maintaining vendor relationships. Practices should assess their growth goals before engaging with GPOs. A dollar saved is often more impactful than a dollar earned. The transition from emerging to mid-market is a critical time to consider procurement strategies. Chapters (00:00) Introduction to GPOs and Their Importance (03:05) Understanding Different Types of GPOs (05:58) Evaluating GPOs: Examples and Their Value Propositions (09:04) Why Join a GPO? Benefits for Independent Practices (11:47) Navigating Product Choices and Vendor Relationships (14:55) The Role of Procurement in Dental Practices (17:59) Pros and Cons of GPO Structures (21:00) Challenges and Risks of Joining a GPO (23:52) Customer Service and Communication in GPOs (27:10) Best Practices for GPO Adoption (28:06) Evaluating GPOs: Key Considerations (30:10) Understanding Pricing and Utilization (32:33) The Role of Relationships in Negotiation (34:39) The Value of Reps in GPOs (39:49) When to Consider GPOs for Your Practice (45:08) Growth Goals and Procurement Strategies

Summary In this conversation, Shaundra discusses the intricacies of Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) in dental practices, emphasizing its evolution and the growing importance of financial awareness among dentists. She highlights the challenges faced with insurance claims, the role of AI, and the dynamics of patient billing. The conversation also touches on the benefits of outsourcing billing solutions versus in-house management, the impact of being out of network, and the significance of follow-up in claims management. Shaundra encourages dentists to be proactive in understanding their finances and offers her expertise in navigating these complexities. About: - I offer Customized Solutions - while most companies are based on a one-size-fits-all model, I recognize that every Dentist / Business Owner is going to have a unique situation that they need a solution for.  Especially the practices that we make the biggest impact for - the mom & pop private practice.  Rather than seeking to build a business on the backs of corporate dental conglomerates, I focus on finding private practices that we can help.  Knowing that we are providing serenity of mind to dentists who have personally poured their blood, sweat and tears into building their private practice means that we are both coming from the same playing field of entrepreneurship and makes me feel even more passionate about our mutual success!  - I'm a born Recruiter - I've professionally networked and recruited for a dental billing company for the last decade - before that I was building up dental practices around the Austin area as a practice administrator and coach.  What that means is that I've built a huge network over two decades of the top tier pros in the dental RCM industry.  I've taken the leg work out of attracting and retaining the people that offices need to manage their dental and patient billing processes and hired them myself!  The benefit to the practice is a nationwide network of top talent with all the expertise, but without the salary price tag of a local robust resume.  I'm confident that my approach of leveraging my organic network of hard working experts is what sets me apart from other outsourced dental billing companies.   Please feel free to visit my website for additional information about services offered. Star Dental Solutions  Email: shaundra@stardentalsolutions.net  Takeaways: RCM is essential for the financial health of dental practices. The rise of DSOs has changed the landscape of dental billing. Many dentists lack awareness of their insurance collections. Outsourcing billing can alleviate administrative burdens. AI can assist but cannot replace human oversight in billing. Insurance companies often have automated systems that can reject claims. Effective communication with patients about insurance is crucial. Follow-up is key to successful claims management. Being out of network can lead to better financial outcomes for practices. Consultation and software evaluation can benefit dental practices. Chapters (00:00) Understanding Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) (02:51) The Evolution of Dental Practices and RCM (05:33) Challenges in Private Practice Management (08:16) The Role of Technology in RCM (10:54) Navigating Insurance Claims and Payments (13:44) The Importance of Active Management in RCM (16:21) Balancing Patient Care and Administrative Duties (19:12) Key Metrics for Successful RCM Management (21:51) Claim Management Strategies (22:08) Common Reasons for Claim Rejections (23:15) The Dance of Denials (25:00) Understanding the Appeal Process (26:24) The Business Mindset of Dentists (28:04) Winning Appeals and Follow-Up (29:13) The Importance of Out-of-Network Practices (30:18) Navigating Insurance as a Patient (32:32) The Financial Dynamics of Dental Practices (35:11) Bringing Value to Dental Practices (37:25) Evaluating Outsourced Solutions (39:47) Consultation and Collaboration

Summary In this episode of the ZenOne Podcast, Tiger Safarov interviews Michael McCarthy, a passionate advocate for dentistry and private practice ownership. They discuss the evolution of the dental industry over the past 25 years, the challenges faced by independent dentists, and the importance of communication and leadership in practice management. McCarthy emphasizes the need for dentists to adapt to changing dynamics, including the rise of DSOs and the shift towards peer-to-peer learning. The conversation also touches on the role of distributors and manufacturers in supporting dental practices, as well as the future outlook for the industry, particularly in relation to the prevalence of dental diseases like cavities. Takeaways Michael McCarthy has been passionate about dentistry for 25 years. The dental industry has evolved, but independent practices still face challenges. Successful dentists often learn through trial and error. Peer-to-peer learning is becoming more important in dentistry. Communication skills are lacking in dental education. Independent dentists need to adapt to changing market dynamics. Delegation and leadership are crucial for practice owners. The relationship between manufacturers and distributors is complex. Cavities are the most prevalent disease globally, highlighting the need for preventive care. The future of dentistry will require innovative solutions and adaptability. 50% of Dental practices in the US will stay Private There a lot of successful private practice owners that no one knows about Great and successful practice owners are first great communicators The Value of Peer to Peer learning  Shit in female graduation  Chapters (00:00) Introduction to Dentistry Passion (02:09) The Evolution of Dental Practices (06:10) The Psychology of Independent Dentists (10:08) Navigating Resources for New Dentists (13:46) Communication Challenges in Dentistry (16:02) Keys to Success for Practice Owners (19:59) The Role of Leadership in Dental Practices (23:51) Finding Success in Independence (25:55) The Importance of Dental Education (27:17) Differential Marketing for Growth (28:51) Tensions in the Distribution Chain (30:51) Changing Dynamics in Sales and Distribution (34:10) The Future of Dental Equipment Distribution (36:11) Building Relationships with Manufacturers (39:22) Service and Support Challenges (42:50) Creating Tomorrow's Customers (48:26) The Future of Dentistry (50:26) Emerging Voices in Dentistry Referenced: AADOM - https://www.dentalmanagers.com/members/ Alliance of Independent Dentist - https://aid-ma.org/ Michael McCarthy Linked:https://www.linkedin.com/in/medadman/  Clinician's Report: https://www.cliniciansreport.org/  Facebook Group: Dental Nachos - https://www.dentalnachos.com/

Summary In this engaging conversation, Tiger Safarov and Dr. Dave Maloli explore the themes of leadership, personal growth, and the importance of creating a positive team culture in dentistry. They discuss the concept of flow-driven leadership, emphasizing the need for a balance between challenge and skill, and how this can lead to higher productivity and job satisfaction. The conversation also touches on the challenges dentists face in leadership roles, the significance of assertive communication, and the necessity of establishing a culture of feedback. Dr. Maloli shares insights on the importance of personal values and the need for dentists to carve out time for leadership development. The discussion concludes with reflections on the nature of leadership skills and the dangers of overused terminology in the workplace. Chapters Spotify: (00:00) Celebrating Milestones and Friendships (01:45) The Journey of Writing a Book (04:32) Understanding Flow-Driven Leadership (08:48) Real-Life Examples of Flow in Dentistry (10:55) The Balance of Work and Play (15:14) Challenges Faced by Dentists (17:41) Navigating Generational Differences in Dentistry (19:20) Effective Communication in Leadership (22:05) Scaling Leadership and Human Connection (25:43) Defining Success Beyond Financial Gains (29:00) Creating Meaningful Habits (34:29) Embracing Life's Contradictions (38:51) The Commodity Problem in Dentistry (42:08) Self-Inflicted Challenges in Dental Practices (45:45) The Nature of Leadership (48:50) The Misuse of Terminology in Leadership (53:11) Final Thoughts on Leadership and Growth

In this episode of the ZenOne Podcast, host Tiger Safarov engages with Daniel Jimenez and Marvin Rodriguez, who share their unique journey from corporate environments to running private dental practices. They discuss the challenges of implementing change in the dental industry, the importance of defining success, and the role of technology and data in modern dentistry. The conversation also delves into the nuances of insurance, particularly Medicare and Medicaid, and how these can impact practice profitability. The trio emphasizes the need for a strong support team and the potential for growth in private practices, while also addressing the realities of private equity in the dental field. Takeaways The transition from corporate to private practice can be challenging but rewarding. Defining success in dentistry varies greatly among practitioners. Implementing change in established practices requires patience and strong leadership. Technology and data can significantly enhance operational efficiency in dental practices. Understanding the differences between Medicare and Medicaid is crucial for practice success. A strong support team is essential for managing multiple practices effectively. Private equity may not always align with the goals of private practice owners. Efficiency is key to profitability, especially in Medicaid practices. Common sense practices can lead to better patient outcomes and satisfaction. Continuous learning and adaptation are vital in the evolving dental landscape. Chapters Spotify  (00:00) Introduction to the Team and Their Journey (03:52) Daniel's Transition from Corporate to Dentistry (09:48) Marvin's Experience and Role in the Team (13:50) The Impact of Amazon's Culture on Operations (17:54) Challenges in Dentistry and the Importance of Teamwork (22:28) Defining Success in Dentistry (24:43) The Importance of Team Dynamics (26:34) Navigating Growth and Resources (28:47) Learning from Others' Mistakes (30:44) The Reality of Practice Ownership (32:25) Creating a Unique Practice Experience (36:08) Measuring Success Beyond Numbers (37:54) Future Aspirations and Private Equity (41:17) The Impact of Private Equity on Dentistry (42:48) Building Sustainable Dental Practices (44:22) Corporate Culture and Employee Value (46:14) Modernization and Opportunities in Dentistry (50:08) The Role of Medicare in Dental Practices (53:46) Understanding Medicaid vs. Insurance (56:55) Defining Success in Dental Practices

In this solo podcast, Tiger Safarov discusses current market trends in dental supplies, focusing on the significant changes in anesthetic prices, the stability of pouch pricing, shortages of saline solutions, and the discrepancies in cavi wipes pricing. He emphasizes the importance of staying in touch with vendors and monitoring supply levels to ensure adequate stock. We look at 4 main products: Anesthetics Pouches Saline Solution Cavi-Wipes Please let me know your thoughts? Should we do more of these with a much deeper dive into products and prices?

In this conversation, Tiger Safarov interviews Grace Rizza, CEO of Identity Dental, about the changing landscape of marketing and advertising for private dental practices. They discuss the impact of AI on content creation, the importance of fine-tuning AI-generated content, and the need for human oversight. They also touch on the changes in Google's algorithm and the challenges of staying compliant with Google's best practices. Grace emphasizes the importance of custom real content on social media and the benefits of outsourcing technical marketing tasks. They also discuss the advertising potential of Meta (formerly Facebook) and the need for realistic expectations in dental marketing. In this conversation, Grace Rizza discusses the importance of brand building and long-term reputation in dental marketing. She emphasizes the need to use meta ads strategically, depending on the goals of the practice. Rizza provides examples of when to use meta ads for lead generation and when to use them to communicate something unique or special about the practice. She also highlights the significance of brand positioning, brand message, and logo design in creating a strong brand identity. Additionally, Rizza touches on the role of reviews, the relevance of blogs in dental marketing, and the challenges of email marketing. More information or schedule a call with Grace: https://go.oncehub.com/grace Coca Cola the logo History: https://www.brandcrowd.com/blog/the-logo-history-of-coca-cola/  Video editing Software: Opus.pro Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Reconnecting (01:49) The Changing Landscape of Marketing and Advertising (04:11) The Impact of AI on Content Creation (07:26) Fine-Tuning AI-Generated Content (12:46) Using AI to Respond to Negative Reviews (17:17) Navigating Google's Algorithm and Best Practices (21:09) Outsourcing Technical Marketing Tasks (25:21) Advertising on Meta: Setting Realistic Expectations (27:11) Strategic Use of Meta Ads (35:45) Building a Strong Brand Identity (43:42) The Role of Reviews and Video Testimonials (48:48) The Relevance of Blogs (51:10) Challenges and Considerations in Email Marketing

Dr. Thomas Graf shares his journey from being a general dentist to specializing in surgery and owning his own practice. He discusses the challenges and growth he experienced as an entrepreneur and the importance of restructuring his business. Dr. Graf also talks about building a strong team and the roles and responsibilities within his practice. He emphasizes the need for clear vision and finding associates who are driven by the right reasons. He shares his insights on finding associates and the importance of keeping them busy and fulfilled in their roles. In this conversation, Thomas Graf and Tiger Safarov discuss the challenges and opportunities of private practice ownership in the dental industry. They emphasize the importance of finding the right associates and creating a supportive and empowering environment. They also highlight the need for private practice owners to think like entrepreneurs and run their practices as businesses. Thomas shares his experience of restructuring his practice's operations and the lessons he learned along the way. They both express their love for dentistry and the satisfaction that comes from being an entrepreneur. More information: https://www.graf.dental/meet-dr-graf  Takeaways Entrepreneurship comes with challenges, but with hard work and restructuring, it can lead to growth and success. Building a strong team with clear roles and responsibilities is crucial for the smooth operation of a dental practice. Finding associates who are driven by the right reasons and align with the practice's vision is essential for a successful partnership. Keeping associates busy and fulfilled in their roles is important for their growth and the success of the practice. Dental schools can be a valuable resource for finding potential associates, and reaching out directly to graduates can yield positive results. Finding the right associates and creating a supportive environment is crucial for the success of a private dental practice. Private practice owners should think like entrepreneurs and run their practices as businesses. Restructuring operations and investing in systems and processes can lead to improved efficiency and profitability. Being an entrepreneur in the dental industry requires hard work, outside-the-box thinking, and a willingness to learn and adapt. Chapters:  (00:00) Introduction and Meeting Dr. Thomas Graf (01:29) Challenges and Growth of Entrepreneurship in Dentistry (05:06) Transition from General Dentist to Surgery Specialist (08:49) Building a Strong Team and Dealing with Cultural Issues (13:54) Roles and Responsibilities in Dr. Graf's Practice (18:11) Finding Associates Driven by the Right Reasons (23:52) Utilizing Dental Schools as a Resource for Finding Associates (29:08) The Readiness for an Associate and Keeping Them Busy (34:13) The Challenges of Dental Education and Finding the Right Associates (36:38) Thinking Like an Entrepreneur in Private Practice Ownership (42:39) Flexibility and Empowerment in Practice Operations (48:25) The Importance of Organization and Preparedness in Private Practice Ownership (53:36) The Rewards and Satisfaction of Being an Entrepreneur in Dentistry

In this episode Tiger and Jaclyn break down the operational side of a dental practice. What does operational excellence look like, what are the elements of a solid on boarding, how to create SOP, and how to make sure your process actually make an impact on your practice!  More information: https://cornerstoneavenue.com/about-jaclyn/  Jaclyn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynkobza/  Chapters: (00:00) Introduction  (00:23) What is Cornerstone Avenue, Coaching or Consulting?  (01:25) What is Operational Excellence?  (07:30) How to take Action in creating process driven practice?  (10:00) Simple Tasks vs Complex Tasks?  (14:35) How to deal with Staff pushback when creating SOP and implementing processes?  (18:56) Dentistry nightmares  (20:55) What are the 3 most expensive things you have to get right? (24:30) Most important HR system you have to get right!  (29:35) Create a document “Working with Dr. Awesome”  (32:35) The power of Checklist (36:00) Off boarding checklist is a key to less stressful departure  (40:30) Tech stack and digital infrastructure of your dental practice  (44:05) How to setup ideal email for your dental practice (51:00) Dental Compliance (56:00) What is the final result of working with Cornerstone Avenue  (57:00) What is Dental credentialing?  (58:00) What are the Top challenges of Private Practices?   (01:03:00) Is there good stress?  (01:04:00) Closing Thoughts

Bio Dr. Karan Thachil's educational journey, spanning from the University of Georgia to the Dental College of Georgia, has equipped him with an insightful blend of academic knowledge and clinical skills. His expertise, enriched by a Master's in Biology and a Doctorate in Dental Medicine, along with specialized training in dental implants and third molar impaction, positions him as a well-rounded dental expert in our practice. Away from the clinic, Dr. Thachil is deeply committed to his family, enjoying quality time with his wife, Pooja, and their children, Aahana and Dev. His interests extend beyond dentistry, embracing hobbies such as reading, golfing, and being an avid supporter of Georgia's sports teams. This balanced lifestyle enhances his relatable and approachable demeanor. Summary Dr. Karan Thachil shares his journey of starting a dental practice and challenges faced along the way. He discusses the decision to open a startup instead of going the acquisition route and the benefits of creating something from scratch. Dr. Thachil emphasizes the importance of having a good work-life balance and finding a business partner with complementary skills and personalities. He challenges the narrative that dentists should work for DSOs and highlights the advantages of starting your own practice. Dr. Thachil also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, building a strong team, and providing excellent patient care. Dr. Karan Thachil shares his experience of starting a dental practice and provides advice for others who are considering opening their own practice. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision, treating staff well, and networking within the local community. He also highlights the need for patience and perseverance, as building a successful practice takes time. Dr. Thachil and his partner have set goals for the next five years, including equipping all operatories and supporting both doctors to work full-time. They also plan to focus on building a strong team and maintaining a positive office culture. More information: www.esteemdentalstudio.com  Takeaways and Notes Good to Great -https://a.co/d/1X4ht6m  Traction - https://a.co/d/f1qT2N4  Unreasonable Hospitality - https://a.co/d/c7ligki  Chapters (00:00) Starting a Dental Practice from Scratch (05:17) Choosing a Startup Over Acquisition (08:00) Creating a Positive Office Culture and Treating Staff Well (08:29) Debunking the Narrative: Dentists Can Succeed Outside of DSOs (12:19) Efficiency and Speed in Dentistry (13:52) The Importance of Debriefing and Communication with Dental Assistants (13:58) Networking and Building a Strong Presence in the Community (20:22) Wearing Multiple Hats: The Challenges of Being a Business Owner (21:30) Networking and Building a Strong Team (22:20) Continuous Learning and Guidance (23:19) Customer Service and Respect (24:00) Focusing on Quality Over Quantity (25:59) The Role of Spousal Support in Practice Success (28:47) Practicing Delayed Gratification and Financial Responsibility (33:52) Being Accountable and Providing the Best Care for Patients (41:04) Conclusion

In this conversation, Lynne Leggett discusses the difference between stress and burnout. She explains that stress is a normal part of life and can be managed through completing the stress cycle, while burnout is a more severe state where individuals feel completely overwhelmed and disengaged. Lynne emphasizes the importance of understanding the difference between the two and not using the terms interchangeably. She also highlights the role of culture, leadership, and mindset in preventing burnout and creating a positive work environment. Lynne provides examples of stress and burnout in a dental practice and shares the steps to address burnout when it occurs. In this conversation, Lynne Leggett discusses the importance of open communication and coaching in dental practices. She emphasizes the need for dentists to have open door policies and to actively check in with their team members. Lynne also highlights the importance of creating a supportive and caring environment for team members who may be going through personal challenges. She encourages dentists to be proactive in offering help and support, whether it's through small gestures or more significant interventions. Lynne also discusses the role of vision and mission statements in guiding the practice and creating a strong team culture. She emphasizes the need for dentists to embrace their role as coaches and to continuously work on improving their leadership skills. Finally, Lynne explains the difference between a good coach and a great coach, and the importance of creating a team atmosphere in the dental practice. To Connect with Lynne:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynne-leggett-17173614/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bballcoach12/ Website: https://victorydentalmanagement.com/   Chapters (00:00) Understanding the Difference: Stress vs. Burnout (08:31) Recognizing and Addressing Burnout (23:18) Creating a Game Plan: Practice and Team Mentality for Success (28:06) The Importance of Open Communication and Coaching (35:42) Being Human and Building Trust (41:46) The Role of Vision and Mission (49:35) From Good Coach to Great Coach (52:23) Creating a Strong Team Culture (54:29) Fostering Ownership and Commitment

In this conversation, Dr. Olson discusses his recent experiments with new technologies in his dental practice, including a 3D printer and AI tools. He shares his experiences and thoughts on the potential benefits and challenges of these technologies. They also discuss the need for better practice management software that focuses on business aspects and provides more automation. Dr. Olson expresses his desire for AI to be used in insurance automation and the potential for AI to assist with systematizing dental practices. They also touch on the topic of delegating business decisions to team members and the challenges dentists face in managing their practices. The conversation covers topics such as the potential for creating a group of dental professionals that can be shared among dental offices, the pros and cons of using temp agencies, the future of dentistry with AI and technology, and the importance of collaboration and customization in the industry. Dr. Andrew Olson Dentist and Owner of Wasatch Dental; Assistant Professor at the University of Utah School of Dentistry. He has a very unique story of becoming a dentist and then pursuing a business education at the University of Utah School of Business. Please enjoy our wide ranging conversation.  LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-olson-069042147/ Software: Botdent.com   Chapters (00:00) Exploring New Technologies in Dental Practice (02:33) The Potential of AI in Dental Practice (07:38) Delegating Business Decisions to Team Members (15:05) The Need for Better Practice Management Software (30:55) The Future of Dentistry with AI and Technology (35:07) AI in Dental Practice (42:57) The Importance of Collaboration in Dentistry (46:03) Dr. Olson's Consulting and Software (48:51) Taking Control of the Business Side of Dentistry

In this conversation, Malika Azargoon discusses the challenges of pediatric dentistry, the pressures faced by pediatric dentists, and the impact of Gen Z employees on dental practices. She also shares insights from her experience as a marathon runner and the parallels between running a marathon and managing a dental practice. The conversation covers topics related to the challenges and pressures faced by dentists in their professional and personal lives, the importance of work-life balance, the decision to open a practice, the pitfalls of owning a pediatric practice, and the value of dental assistants. It also delves into the dynamics of pediatric practices, the role of dental assistants, and the need for clear career growth paths for assistants. The conversation concludes with book recommendations and a promise of a potential part two. Bio: Malika Azargoon is the dynamic Consultant, Founder, and Principal of Zar Dental Consulting. With over 20 years in the dental industry, Malika has become a leading dental management consultant. A graduate of George Washington University, Malika's energy and enthusiasm propelled her from dental assistant to business manager in a top dental practice. Recognizing the demand for her expertise, she founded Zar Dental Consulting, which now serves hundreds of practices. Her commitment to client-focused, results-driven strategies has built a business known for significantly increasing dental practice profits. Malika is a sought-after speaker at national dental conferences, known for engaging teams and driving remarkable breakthroughs. Dentists and their teams appreciate her relatable approach, earning her titles like “Dental Therapist” and “Team Whisperer.” An avid runner, Malika brings the same energy to her consulting work as she does to every race. She uses her marathon training as an analogy for consulting—commit to the race, stay determined, and cross the finish line. Schedule a call with Malika: https://calendly.com/zardentalconsulting/zar-client-call?month=2024-06Learn More at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/zardentalconsulting/ Chapters (00:00) Challenges of Pediatric Dentistry (02:08) Pressures Faced by Pediatric Dentists (28:11) The Importance of Personal Balance in Dental Practice Management (32:52) The Decision to Open a Practice and Career Growth (46:13) The Value of Dental Assistants in Pediatric Practices (57:02) Creating Career Growth Paths for Dental Assistants (01:01:00) Book Recommendations and Part Two Promise

In this conversation, Dr. Mark Costes shares his insights and experiences as a successful dentist and entrepreneur, his upbringing and the influence of his parents on his work ethic and values. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and the need for continuous personal and professional growth. Dr. Costes reflects on the misconceptions people may have about him and highlights the role of persistence and luck in his life. He shares his red switch, which is the drive to prove himself and deliver exceptional results. He discusses the challenges he faced in his career, including dealing with criticism and developing a strong work ethic. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and setting high goals. Mark shares his future goals, including writing a non-dental book and launching a DSO. Chapters:  (0:00) - Introduction  (02:15) - Mark's upbringing and the influence of his parents (07:45) - What most people get wrong about Dr. Mark Costes (11:26) - What is Mark's red switch (14:50) - What did Mark know early in the career, but it finally hit him in the 40s and 50s (22:10) - The problem with setting low goals (23:15) - Is there anything in the last 2 years that Mark changed his mind on?  (35:30) - What does Mark tell young dentists that say “Mark I want to be like you”? Master 4 Futures and Master your ideal practice.  (40:00) - What's next for Mark? 

The conversation explores the concept of leadership and its application in dental practices. It discusses the misconception that leadership is solely the responsibility of the owner or manager, emphasizing that leadership is a collective effort. Takeaways Leadership is a collective effort and not limited to the owner or manager. Setting clear expectations and providing tools are essential aspects of leadership. The term 'leader' is often overused and misused, and individuals need to earn their leadership roles. Effective communication, transparency, and trust are crucial for building a successful team. Dentists face challenges in developing leadership skills, but the younger generation shows a strong desire to improve. Work-life balance is important to millennials and younger professionals, who prioritize a different style of work and life. Culture in the workplace is subjective and can vary from one office to another, but it is important to define and align with the values and goals of the business. Setting clear expectations and holding team members accountable is crucial for maintaining a positive work environment. The process of hiring and firing should be done with dignity and open communication, focusing on the needs and goals of both the employer and the employee. Creating a strong culture starts with defining the vision and values of the business and aligning behaviors and goals with those values. The firing process can be made easier by using tools such as the Arch template and radical candor to have difficult conversations and set clear expectations. Bio: Meet Geri Gottlieb, founder and CEO of GG Practice Coaching & Development, a seasoned coach, communications expert, and speaker. With over three decades of experience in dental practice management and leadership development, she brings a unique blend of expertise to drive sustainable growth. From owning two successful periodontal practices with her husband Dr Bob Gottlieb, to being a lead coach with ACT Dental Practice Management and Motivational Speaker Kirk Behrendt to launching her own venture in 2019— she knows what it takes to build a thriving business from scratch. With a passion for continuous education and a deep sense of empathy, Geri is dedicated to helping dental professionals grow and succeed. With a wealth of experience and a thirst for knowledge, she bridges the gaps between clinical expertise, leadership, management, and ownership. Armed with certifications in Adult Learning, Behavioral Therapy, The Five Behaviors of a Team®, DiSC® Behavioral Assessments, and her newest addition—The Working Genius—Geri is equipped to delve into the individual needs of every leader and team member. Website: https://ggpracticecoaching.com/  Shortcuts: (0:00) - Podcast Intro  (00:12) - What is Leadership  (01:40) - Is “Leadership '' over-hyped in dentistry?  (08:53) - Difference between Well Oiled Machine Practice and a practice that needs work?  (11:59) - What are the boundaries for transparency in the dental practice?  (20:28) - Why are people afraid of conflict at work?  (22:40) - Ability to read the room?  (23:28) - What would “Hell yea” look like?  (27:03) - DISC  (27:35) - Does the new generation of dentists struggle with leadership?  (30:45) - Misconception of work-life balance  (34:45) - Where to start with the Culture?  (39:39) - Mastering the skill of firing  (44:10) - How you fire is more important than how you hire!  (48:50) - The first time you feel you need to let someone go, you should let them go!  (51:04) - 5 Appreciations in the workplace  (53:45) - When is the right time to call GG

Julie Varney is the biggest advocate for dental assistants in the US. She has been in the industry for 32 years and has accomplished a lot. In this interview she shares her thoughts on what;s holding back the profession of dental assistants and what one person can do to improve her or his career path.  Instagram https://www.instagram.com/dentalassistantsrock?igsh=MWE2dHZrbWJmbnJ4NQ==  Registration for the zenone.com/badass (0:00) - Podcast Intro  (00:40) - TEasing Julie with hosting National conference in March 6-8 2025 (04:02) - National shortage of Dental Assistants, what happened?  (06:03) - What happened with dental assistants (07:29) - How to determine a reasonable hourly rate for a Dental Assistant?  (10:04)  - Are the dental assistants entitled?  (11:15) - Intro to June 28th Full Day workshop  (11:49) - How Julie started instagram account  (18:42) - Who is the workshop for?  (19:30) - Why Dental Assisting schools are not providing adequate training for the industry? (27:15) - ADA, TDA, AGD and impact of these organization on Dental Assistants  (32:08) - How to leave your current job as a professional?  (36:00) - How to answer tricky questions at the job interviews  (38:54) - How to evaluate practices when interviewing for a job and ask good questions?  (41:25) - “What type of growth opportunities at your dental practice?” (43:30) - How to get unstuck?   

Michelle Affanato started her career in dentistry at the age of 15 and worked her way up to become a dental consultant. She has a unique perspective on the industry, having worked in various roles and even helped a bank with startup practice financing. Michelle believes that the key to success in dentistry is being willing to put in the work and not just focusing on clinical responsibilities. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the business side of dentistry and being involved in all aspects of the practice. Michelle's consulting focus is on system implementation and training, particularly in effective scheduling, financial management, and communication between the clinical and administrative teams. In this conversation, Michelle Affanato discusses the importance of having clear communication and systems in a dental practice. She emphasizes the need for a visual reminder of important information, such as X-rays or photos, to ensure that the team is consistently reminded of necessary procedures. Michelle also highlights the benefits of morning huddles in getting the entire team on the same page and maximizing productivity. She advises offices to focus on the highlights and important information during huddles, rather than going through every patient on the schedule. Michelle also touches on the use of sports analogies in business and the importance of defining success based on individual goals. She encourages private practices to focus on the patient experience and their own definition of success, rather than considering selling to a DSO as a solution to challenges. Michelle also discusses the difficulties in finding and retaining staff in the current job market and suggests considering training and onboarding individuals from outside of dentistry. Lastly, she emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability in a startup practice, as systems and layouts may need to be adjusted as the practice grows and changes. Takeaways Success in dentistry requires putting in the work and not just focusing on clinical responsibilities. Understanding the business side of dentistry and being involved in all aspects of the practice is crucial. System implementation and training are key to effective scheduling, financial management, and communication within the practice. Open-mindedness and a willingness to overcome challenges are important traits for success in dentistry. Clear communication and visual reminders are essential in a dental practice to ensure that the team consistently follows necessary procedures. Morning huddles are a valuable opportunity to get the entire team on the same page and maximize productivity by focusing on the highlights and important information. Defining success based on individual goals is crucial for private practices, and selling to a DSO should not be seen as the only solution to challenges. Finding and retaining staff can be challenging in the current job market, and considering training and onboarding individuals from outside of dentistry may be a viable option. Flexibility and adaptability are key in a startup practice, as systems and layouts may need to be adjusted as the practice grows and changes. Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Reconnecting (07:59) What Sets Michelle Apart as a Consultant (28:06) Focus of Michelle's Consulting and Implementing Systems (39:04 )Challenges and Strategies for Finding and Retaining Staff (50:29) Defining Success and Setting Clear Goals (58:02) Improving Efficiency and Patient Experience

In this podcast Michelle and I discuss how to become a trusted member of the team and learn to become the lead dental assistant. Learning how to communicate and the fundamentals of delegation. Michelle has been with Ballantyne Endodontics For 15 years and became clinical leader. Michelle Allen bio  Discount code : ZENONE for $400 off both the independent and The Independent + The collective (which is the coaching option). The next 8 week class starts on May 1st! Shortcuts: (0:00) - Podcast Intro  (01:10) - Balancing Act of day to day activities (03:59) - What is the role of Lead Assistant (06:56) - Responsibilities of a Lead Dental Assistant  (09:30) - Hiring the right people  (10:38) - Did your pay go up?  (12:17) - $45/hour Assistant, is it possible?  (14:35) - Is there a ceiling? (16:43) - How to build trust between a doctor and a dental assistant  (23:16) - Non Verbal Communication in clinical settings (25:35) - Sequence of procedures is a foundation for successful non verbal communication (28:24) - Why is it so hard for practice to master non verbal communication  (30:32) - What is the goal for the course?  (33:53) - The reason for Polished Academy name  (34:32) - Do you have training for general practice dental assistant  (36:44) - How do you plan to manage the Full Time job and Coaching other offices?  (38:10) - What's wrong with the current definition of a Dental Assistant  (39:40) - Michelle's Story  (41:45) - You should do more in life and take on more responsibilities/challenges  (44:26)  - What's next?  (48:21) - What would you tell someone who is just starting out in the endo practice as an assistant? Instagram ⁠https://www.instagram.com/MichelleAllen_DA/⁠  More information about the course: ⁠https://polishedacademy.vipmembervault.com/⁠ Reference ⁠https://a.co/d/j9nQO6W⁠  DISC assessment - ⁠https://www.discprofile.com⁠ Unreasonable Hospitality - ⁠https://a.co/d/4VnNM0e⁠  4000 Weeks - Time Management for Mortals - ⁠https://a.co/d/07zZnVh⁠ 

Dr. Benjamin Johnson, DDS ( Bio; LinkedIn)  Dr. Benjamin Johnson graduated from the University of Utah with a BS in Biology (2005), he attended Ohio State's School of Dentistry and graduated in 2009. In 2010, Dr. Johnson moved to Texas to work with Dr. Dale McCall (at what would become Acre Wood Dental). When Dr. McCall retired in 2011, Dr. Johnson purchased the practice and continued its tradition of excellent care while adding personal touches to grow it to the next level.  Dr. Johnson was blessed with a flourishing practice in Waco and needed additional space to grow. Acre Wood Dental expanded by acquiring two additional practices in neighboring towns – Temple and Gatesville.  In 2016, he updated and remodeled Acre Wood Dental Waco – going from five operatories to 17 operatories. In 2022, he started remodeling the Acre Wood Dental Temple location. In 2023 he purchased a practice in Round Rock Texas, making it his 4th location.   Shortcuts: (00:00) - Podcast Intro  (00:27) Goal Setting (02:20) Yearly Planning retreat  (04:15) Debt Reduction Framework for Goal Setting and Work Life Balance  (06:30) “I don't really have goal for trips or income” (08:20) The home is a foundation for a family   (09:15) Round Rock practice purchase story (11:15) 5 Year gap between practice 3 and 4 (11:45) Dynamics of Power couples and how decisions are made  (13:30) Payroll nightmares when running 3 lean practices  (14:50) “Can you walk us through the purchase details?”  (17:19) Practice video walk through  (18:40) So why other buyers missed this gem? The real art of the dental deal (20:55) “I did act fast”  (22:30) Price breakdown of this deal in real time, buildout/cabinetry, equipment, supplies, CEREC adds up to $1.1 million  (24:56) The risk reward was so extreme (26:20) The importance of business acumen  (27:36) Associates expectations in the first 10 years of professional career  (29:25) “if you are worried about cash flow, great be an associate. If you are worried about net worth, then own” (31:55) Cash flow or net worth, what do you want? (33:37) People have the pressure because they don't have the support at home (36:20) Long term vision for the practice  (37:40) Are there more purchases after this practice?  (38:12) The team of rock stars that you need to have around you to scale  (39:48) “When I drive I'm a quiet kind of ride guy”  (41:02) “If you have no experience the headspace is a scary space because you don't know” [42:01]

Dr. Aaron Nicholas (Bio, Insta, LinkedIn),  In this wide ranging conversation we cover many topics that include burnout, suicide in dentistry, backpain, coping mechanisms, and mastery. Probably the most important part of the podcast is when I ask Dr. Nicholas, what fears does he have for the profession of dentistry? Shortcuts:  (0:00) Podcast Intro (01:20) Dr. Aaron's retirement and how he keeps himself busy (03:30) The Fairytale of Selling a Dental Practice  (05:50) Dentist burnout and what is the real reason?  (10:38) What is the Source of the burnout?  (12:50) 3 Dimensional framework to evaluate work-life balance - Work-Goals-Life (17:50) Different Coping mechanisms to overcome burnout (22:00) Healing back pain book  (26:10) 1 Thing Young Dentist can do to avoid the burnout and avoid back pain  (28:35) How do you pick good dental coaching?  (30:40) 5-6 Years before you become a master (33:19) How would Dr. Nicholas would write chapter 1 of the book?  (34:42) What fears do you have about the profession of dentistry?  (42:10) We are really new to AI game with diagnosis  (42:50) Next 10 years of Dentistry and what is the bright side of dentistry?  (45:45) What is true Mastery? How to define mastery and achieve it?  Dr. Aaron's courses and References:  https://www.mondaymorningdentistry.com/ Extraction course - https://www.mondaymorningdentistry.com/handsonextractions Healing Back Pain: The Mind-Body Connection - https://a.co/d/82BPUd2 Colorado Surgical Institute- https://www.coloradosurgicalinstitute.com/#5  Implant Pathway - https://www.thepathway.com/  Get in touch with Dr. Aaron Nicholas - anicholasdds@gmail.com 

There are many aspects we can all agree are missing in dentistry today. However, from my perspective, having worked with dental teams daily, I can clearly see that onboarding, training, and nurturing for your team is sorely lacking. Let's refer to it simply as "training". How do I know? Well, I constantly hear phrases like, "They don't even know how to put on a rubber dam" or "How many times do I need to say that I use plain cetonest?" or my personal favorite, "I just need a dental assistant who can get the work done." What does this mean? Please check out full article here

Trend 1: One of the most significant trends I've noticed is the increasing popularity of buying groups.  When evaluating a group, dental practices should ask the following questions related to their negotiated formulary: Which manufacturers offer the deepest discounts? How often are discounts negotiated? Is pricing volume-based? Does the buying group negotiate a percentage discount or a fixed price per product? (We recommend the latter.) Trend 2: Labor costs are driving the adoption of tools that reduce manual work. This trend is evident. When selecting the right ordering platform for the practice, several considerations are crucial: Data ownership: Ensure the practice owns all data and can access the entire database at any point. Setup cost: There shouldn't be a setup cost to start using an ordering platform. Trial period: Request a free trial to assess usability before committing. Trend 3: Private practices are becoming savvier about where to save and are utilizing their freedom to invest in products that make a difference. Reference:  We come across the following groups the most: Synergy Dental DentalWhale Savings Network SourceClub DSN (Dental Success Network) Kois Buying Group  Mari's List (for Orthodontic offices) 

In this wide ranging conversation we cover many topics:  Startup, In Network, Out of Network, and knee deep in construction a story of 3 practices We didn't even remind them to schedule the next appointment, was that a mistake?  We still have a capacity issue, bit on the hygiene side  Why do you need an associate if your hygiene schedule is not full?  Passive Income strategies.  Is Real Estate investment a good alternative to Dentistry? The Breakdown the business side of Dental Emergencies  Few things we mentioned on the Pod: -Round Flash Photo Diffuser https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NQ6UT4W?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share  - 3D Printer for office things: http://bambulab.com/  TimeStamps:  [00:55] Introductions  [13:16] Looking for an associate. Avatar of the Ideal Associate for Ayrat, Andy, and Winston   [19:17] Challenges and Goals  [22:23] Why do you need an associate if your hygiene schedule is not full?  [23:32] The Business side of dental emergencies  [28:20] Marketing Strategies  [32:06] “I see a lot of our friends selling” [32:10] Passive Income in Dentistry, Myth or Reality?  [35:27] Not Practicing Dentistry and Invest in real estate  [37:40] Real Estate VS Dentistry  [42:18] Construction Challenges  [43:56] Latest Technology Purchases [51:02] Working with In House Marketing Team    Future Topics: Advisors and Coaching in Dentistry 

Dr. Andrew Olson Dentist and Owner of Wasatch Dental; Assistant Professor at the University of Utah School of Dentistry. He has a very unique story of becoming a dentist and then pursuing a business education at the University of Utah School of Business. Please enjoy our wide ranging conversation.  LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-olson-069042147/ Software: Botdent.com   Topics: 01:00 Introductions 03:34 Early Days  05:05 What sparked the interest in Dentistry?  08:00 Why did you pursue an MBA? 17:45 Misconception of business education and the importance of it to have a competitive edge.   20:00 2 Takeaways from Business School 22:30 The Superpower of a dental practice  25:50 Business Books  27:30 What does the next generation of Dentists look like? 33:11 What would a dentist miss out on if avoid being an owner  35:47 Unfortunate story of a doctor who should've been an associate  50:21 Credit Cards and Passwords 59:12 “I actually don't have an office manager” 01:01:58 What is the Culture?  01:03:00 What is one killer of culture  01:06:05 Who is your competition?  01:09:45 The Future of Private Practice Ownership  01:12:43 0-10 Scale of Future of Dentistry   Books Recommendation Four Disciplines of Execution eMyth Revisited  Psycho-Cybernetics 

Welcome to Episode 79 where I ask Ayrat, practice administrator at Cedar Park Dental Wellness, what's new and exciting in 2024. We spent most of the time discussing pitfalls of going out of network with dental insurance companies. 

Welcome to Episode 78. In this short episode, I interviewed one of the early ZenOne customers and someone whom I admire for his work ethic and humbleness. Dr. Fan shares the story of growing up in Claremont California, going to dental school in New York, and settling in Austin.Timestamps:00:00:40 When Dr Fan started his practice00:01:02 Dr. Fan's bold relocation to Austin00:02:01 Becoming a dentist00:04:51 Looking for the first job00:06:48 Purchasing a practice00:09:40 One patient at a time00:12:12 Why Dr Fan selected his dental school00:13:42 Constant self-development and self-education00:15:41 How technology helps Dr Fan achieve results00:16:21 When you work for a DSO you are driven by numbers00:17:53 Unwinding After a Long Day00:20:51 Dr. Fan's Aspirations00:21:40 Ownership is not for everyone

Welcome to Episode 77 where we visit Garrison Dental Solutions in Michigan. We met with the team, toured the manufacturing facility, and discussed the challenges of serving practices across the country. At the end of the visit, I sat down with the Director of Sales for North America, Richard Markules Timestamps:00:01:43 Intro00:03:00 Introduction to dental 00:04:30 Garrison started in the basement 00:06:30 What is the sales process?00:07:45 What has changed in Dentistry in the last 10 years? 00:09:00 What does make private practice strong? 00:10:33 How often do the owners of Garrison go to the factory? 00:11:26 Culture at Garrison Dental00:13:45 How to align yourself with the right partners 00:16:20 Educational resources for dental teams00:17:20 Closing Notes

Welcome to Episode 76 where I'm joined by my good friends Dr. Scott Goldman (LinkedIn) and Dr. Peter Boulden DDS (LinkedIn). On this podcast, we debunk all the pros and cons of selling a practice to DSO (2 times) and he learned and experienced all of the things DSOs offer. On the other hand, Dr. Boulden resisted the urge to sell to DSO for years and kept building his group in Atlanta to now 8 locations in Georgia. Dr. Boulden is also a co-host of Bulletproof podcast and Bulletproof Mastermind to help private practices continue staying private. Hope you enjoy it.TigerTimestamps:(00:01:25) Dr. Scott Goldman's introduction(00:02:28) Dr. Peter Boulden's introduction(00:04:30) Scott, Why did you sell to DSO? $32mm revenue, 12 locations, and 8.5 EBITDA(00:06:18) How much did you sell it for? (00:08:29) Are you a Platform practice for Private Equity?(00:12:25) Build one practice really well and get a better multiple(00:14:40) Scott breaks down the details of his acquisition(00:18:52) “I've never seen less than 5 years you need to stay as a selling doctor, Isn't that crazy”(00:20:20) What is the recapitalization? (00:21:42) The effect of the high-interest rates. Continuation vehicle is a new thing. What is it? (00:23:00) difference between Private DSO/dentist-led/backed and 100% PE-backed(00:24:02) Dr. Boulden real rub with the PE-backed DSOs(00:25:33) The pros of the DSOs.(00:27:36) “Partnerships often don't work”(00:30:37) “I can guarantee you when they are private they are run better than a DSO”(00:31:10) What are the emotional things that people do not talk about(00:34:30) No one washes the rental car!(00:36:44) No Thy self!(00:38:55) What is the other option?(00:39:00) “Private Practice Valuations are going to stay stable to other private practice doctors. Those valuations will hold. DSO valuations are only going to go down” (00:42:40) Are you Redlining yourself running your private practice? (00:44:00) 4 things to do before selling the practice (00:46:45) “It wasn't worth it for me at some point to continue” Dr. Goldman(00:48:00) How Dr. Goldman started with 780SF, 2 chairs, FFS, $997 in collections with 75% take home. (00:49:45) Ownership is not for everyone (00:54:05)” I wanted to buy time” Dr.Goldman(00:56:28) How to owner finance to your associate? (01:02:30) Closing thoughts and we discuss what makes dentistry so great!

Welcome to Episode 75 where we discuss a big announcement we made about future plans of Zen Supplies and introduction of the new platform -ZenOne. I asked Delaney Barber (Practice Success Manager) and Jillian Gomez (Partner Vendors Manager) to join me on this podcast to share the news and the feedback we received so far. Jill shares the details of her work of adding thousands of SKUs and most importantly the Quality process. This is a short and sweet episode to give listeners a glimpse into the inner workings of Zen Team! Book a demo to experience the new platform in action: zensupplies.com/demo

Experienced Operations Officer with a demonstrated history of successful work in the Supply Chain and Logistics industry. Skilled in Cash Flow, Financial Operations, Manufacturing Operations, Warehouse Operations, and Warehouse Control. Strong finance professional with a Bachelor of Business Administration - BBA focused in Accounting and Finance from the University of Central Arkansas. Timestamps of our discussion: (01:40) What is holding dental manufactures to go direct (Direct to Consumer Model)(04:45) Would manufacturers like 3M ever go direct and when? (07:05) The origin story of Source Club(11:38) What is GPO (Group Purchasing Organization) (12:31) How does the GPO make money?(16:09) Why Dental GPOs are not as common as medical and what or who is stopping the growth? (19:34) The wrong side of the DSO arbitrage (22:23) What is dental real inflation? (23:15) COVID prices are still in place (29:29) Why do you need to utilize a single sign-on procurement software? (41:10) How should private practice interview and choose the right GFPO for them? (46:09) Is it all about pricing when it comes to GPO? (50:14) Savings in dental supplies can allow you to hire an additional assistant(52:59) Without a procurement platform it's hard to utilize the full value of a GPO(54:09) Evaluating GPO comes hand and hand with evaluating procurement software(56:26) There needs to be an independent evaluation of ALL procurement platforms(57:54) Not all Purchasing platforms are the same. How to evaluate the right fit for you and what questions to ask? (58:39) Can Private Practices outpace in growth of the DSO segment? (1:03:14) Current environment of the DSO segment

Today I had a chance to discuss all things hygiene with Laura and Danielle. They met 15 years ago at th hygiene schools and since then stayed friends and 12 months ago started Diamond Dental Hygiene Career Coaching. On this podcast we discuss:  What holds most of the hygienists back?  How to manage a toxic environment and when is the time to call quits? How to build a nurturing Growth mindset? What causes the burnout?  Characters traits of a great dental hygienist?  Does everyone need to be a leader?  Some of the negatives of a dental hygiene profession during Covid Danielle's Bio & Laura's Bio To book a free consultation click hereTime Stamp: Danielle shares her burnouts and how she was able to grow personally and professionally during the pandemic. (2:52)What caused the burnout? (5:02)How do you know if your work environment is a toxic environment? (7:15)How to deal with negative talk? (11:35) Lead by example, instilling a strong work ethic within the team, whether it be a dentist, hygienist, doctor, or office manager. (13:54)The importance of being a solid team player. (16:30)Creating a solution to the problem through coaching strategies with your clients. (21:39)Laura explains how she helps her clients change their mindset so they can work more effectively. (23:04)How can burnout be avoided? (25:40)Laurie talks about the importance of cohesive harmony throughout work-life balance. (30:00)importance of recognizing who you are authentically, as the same things won't work for everyone. (31:57)How to design your life as a hygienist? (34:55)Danielle shares the importance of confidence and not being afraid. (37:12)The importance of repetition and timings. (39:34)Where the growth happens from your failures. (44:04)How to describe a great hygienist? (46:06)Skills and character traits that hygienists are missing today. (47:58)The importance of giving as well as receiving. (49:21)What should dental assistants expect from you? (51:40)

Amy Bridger has exclusively worked in the dental industry since 2013. Having worked with multiple customer segments, including private practice, emerging groups, DSOs, as well as GPOs across the country, Amy's knowledge base of the dental industry is extensive. She takes pride in identifying and helping her customers realize potential areas of improvement within their procurement, marketing, and operational strategies. Having worked for Henry Schein for 6 years, Amy came to Dental Whale at the beginning of 2020 to launch and lead their Strategic Partnership Division, which includes relationships with DSOs, GPOs, Consultants, Associations as well as Private Equity Firms. She holds a BBA in Management and an MBA from the McCoy College of Business Administration at Texas State University.We cover so many different topics on: How UPS mastered logistics and what Private Practice Owners can learn from it GPO myths and tactics Free Goods and Specials. Why dental practices should stay away from Manufacture Promotions  The current wave of simplification and transparency in the dental industry  Why your best today could be different from your best tomorrow Nobody dies from dental supplies Disney Customer Experience  Timestamps:Amy's background and early career development (0:43)Learning B2B Sales and channel selling at UPC (4:08)The importance of supply chain and logistics (05:15)Amy's Internship at Henry Schein (6:19)What has changed in dentistry? (7:57)What needs to happen to grow the number of private practices instead of DSOs? (10:20)Moving from Henry Schein to Dental Whale (13:02)It takes two people to run the practice (17:44)What are GPO's and how do they work? (20:43)Staying private but getting the lowest pricing is important (25:15)How do you evaluate GPO?s (26:34)Amy's opinion of free goods and quarterly promotions (30:47)What things have “stayed the same” with how practices purchase supplies over the years from Amy's Experience? What things have changed? (37:57)How does Amy's professional career affect her personal life? (40:54)Balancing work and family life (48:32)Setting the boundaries (55:07)The best customer experience Ame has ever had (57:00)

This podcast is not financial advice, please talk to your financial adviser or tax planner or people that are certified. Shannon Blackmon is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, highly trained in financial planning and investment management. Helping others not only survive but flourish and live full, prosperous lives is her goal. Shannon enjoys co-creating custom financial plans with her clients' well-being at the center. Shannon earned a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Arizona and her Certificate in Financial Planning from Boston University. Shannon is a Registered Life Planner® through Kinder Institute. She is also a Certified Financial Therapist-Level I™ Practitioner. She serves as Co-Chair for the Horizons Foundation's Professional Advisors Council and is a member of Dental Speaker Institute, and Dental Speakers Bureau. Reach out to Shannon: shannonb@thomasdoll.com Resources: Link for Shannon's Assessment: https://measure.datapoints.com/survey/842/iIRZck0XLr0dpzJBy9bT Robo Adviser (we do not earn any commission) https://www.wealthfront.com/ Online Brokerage Firms (we do not earn any commission)   We cover so many topics ranging from:Timestamps:(01:32) What do people get wrong about the finances(04:31) How Dental Assistants can get on the path of creating wealth(07:22) How start setting money aside for Emergency Fund (Rainy Day fund)(10:45) Emergency Fund gives you a boost of confidence (12:51) What to do if the practice you work for doesn't have 401K offering(14:37) Traditional vs Roth IRA differences (17:36) How and why to choose Certified Financial Planner (19:13) What is the cost of working with a Certified Financial Planner(24:20) People hide bigger problems behind Money Problems(28:50) How to discover your goals(36:10) Modern platform to manage your finances(39:11) Real meaning of Paying Yourself First

In this episode I have a special guest, Cassie Kellner, who I met 4 years ago and was immediately impressed by. Cassie has been in the dental field for 20 years and started as a general dentist assistant when she was 19 years old. After 4 years she moved to assisting at the Ortho office and since then she's been in love with orthodontics. After years being in the field she moved to Hummingbird Associates as a Clinical Systems Consultant. We cover so many topics ranging from:(5:45) How to transition from general to orthodontics(7:18) Misconceptions of transitioning from General to orthodontics (13:05) Why dental assistants do not see dentistry as a career path(19:05) What do you do when you feel stuck?  (20:40) What's the right way to complain and is best to talk to? (24:40) Create 90 Day Onboarding system(27:15) Asana in Dentistry(31:30) Just jump! It's an incredible ride(33:33) Parenting and Dentistry (36:00) Our industry needs to be be doing more for employees with kids (37:05) What would the Stellar Maternity Leave package look like? (43:13) Day to Day challenges of being a mom and trying to keep the job(49:20) How to have difficult conversations?(51:30) Parenting advice, the good and bad advice we both received? And some strange questions that people ask you

In this episode, I sat down with Colin Ambler (LinkedIn) who is co-owner of Noble Dentistry, 14 ops with 50 staff members, with his wife and also a founder of a new dental startup Team Care (teamcaredental.com). We discuss why reward/incentive programs are important, key elements, and the effects of the productivity of the practice. We also touch on how he and his wife grew the practice from scratch and what important checkboxes you need to check in order to grow and never lose sight of details.   Towards the end of the episode, Colin shares one nugget that any practice can take and build their successful practice. 

In this episode, Jillian from Zen Supplies interviews Celeste Izquierdo, Assistant Manager and Treatment Plan Coordinator at Triangle Family Dentistry-Morrisville in North Carolina. Celeste is not only a skilled dental professional but also a talented self-taught artist. In this interview, she shares her journey of discovering her passion for art at a young age and how it intertwines with her career in dentistry. From Bob Ross to animation, Celeste's diverse artistic influences have shaped her unique style and approach. Be ready to be amazed by the way Celeste incorporates her artwork into the dental office, using it to communicate complex procedures to patients and create a welcoming atmosphere. This captivating dialogue truly shows the fusion of creativity and oral healthcare as well as the beauty that emerges from their harmonious combination.

In this episode, Delaney Barber, Customer Success Manager at ZenSupplies, discusses with Amanda Garthwaite, Regional Director Of Operations at Lightwave Dental, the story of how Lightwave offices got acquainted with ZenSupplies and started their journey towards efficiency and transformation. The journey wasn't all smooth and effortless. But due to the challenges they faced, Amanda and her team understood the importance of constant analysis, communication, trainings, and support. Amanda describes how ZenSupplies helps them stay under budget and consolidate all their needs in one convenient place. No more juggling multiple systems and vendors, they now had a unified hub of resources at their fingertips.Amanda's advice to other dental practices is that technology is not something to be feared but embraced. It is a key that would unlock doors they never knew existed, changing the mindset and paving the way for efficiency.

I met Christin during the Launch event in Durham in April and I was immediately amazed by her positive personality, the smile and when I asked just a few questions about her career path I knew I needed to interview Christin for the ZenOne podcast as soon as possible. Her story is incredible, she has an immense level of Emotional Intelligence and perseverance. In just a short amount of time she was able to grow from starting as a dental assistant, then Hygienist, then to director of operations and to a current position at Light Wave Dental as a VP of Fields Operations. She's been through some difficult life challenges but with “ Above and Beyond” attitude and “Always say Yes' '' she was able to overcome it all. We discuss many subject including Ambitions, How to reward the team, Personal Life and the cost of achieving goals,  Work life balance for the leaders, and much more. Books and Quotes:Dale Carnegie - How to Win Friends and Influence People (Amazon Link)“It isn't what you have or who you are or where you are or what you are doing that makes you happy or unhappy. It's what you think about it.” Andy Andrews- The Seven Decisions (Amazon Link)“To be great at whatever it is that you do, it's going to take some discipline to separate yourself from the average.” “Ask yourself this question: What is it about me that other people would change if they could?”Short Bio:Northcutt Dental2001-2003- Dental Assistant2004-2011- Dental Hygienist2011-2016 - Director of Operations2017-2022 - President / COO2022- Currently Present- VP of Field Ops , Lightwave Dental

On this podcast, I have a unique opportunity to interview Sandi Synstad, Clinical Director of Light Wave Dental, who is absolute rock star, heart officer of the organization and the energy sunshine of the Launch Event in NC. We talk about her career and how life setbacks can make you stronger. She shares her inspiring life story and how learning became the beacon of light for her during the tough times. This is an absolute gem and I hope you listen to this many times and take notes on how to set goals, create a career path and become the leader in your practice (even if you are not a doctor). Sandi's BIO:“I practiced as a clinical dental hygienist for over thirty years and have a true passion for my profession. I was able to expand my duties within my office to include managing our dental hygiene department, as well as a role in the office management team. My new role with Light Wave Dental allows me to take the passion and ideas that I have developed over the years and help our Light Wave Community! I love planning team meetings and implementing ideas to maintain a dynamic office culture. I seek to make each hygiene department the best by providing protocols that ensure excellent patient care. I thrive on new ideas and training that continues to move our offices in a forward direction. I truly believe a dental office is a unique and amazing place to work, and look forward to continuing to push the envelope of dental care to keep our offices ahead of the curve.”Goals Template: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vfO79IPTPXt_14nX3EyPztQ4WIv5G0Fx/edit

We are attending a Launch Event in Durham to support our great client Lightwave Dental, Dental Leadership Organization, headquartered in Virginia. Samantha Julia and Samantha Vaccarello are here to organize our table and represent Zen in the best light possible. Tiger came to support and had a minute to sit down with both Sam's (one on camera and one is shy) to discuss their journey, part time work with Zen and the side hustle they both created while working part time at ZenSupplies in 4 months. 

Today I am at the Wiregrass Dental Symposium in Dothan Alabama. Yes it's south and I really enjoy it, from famous hospitality and accent, to how spacious dental practices are since the land is not an issue! In this interview I sat down with Haley, who started out as a dental assistant and has seen not only the growth of the practice but also her own personal growth and now she is a treatment coordinator. We go over the history, what makes their practice unique, how Haley says ”We implemented” and “We have grown..” instead of ”Doctors have grown the practice…” and how amazing that is. We touch on why the treatment presentation is not selling and why Haley really enjoys it. This is a warming and down to earth conversation about life and values, what is important in life and how doctors can see what Dr. Markham has built such an amazing team.   

Today I sat down with Operations Manager at Westgate Dental Care to discuss her 20th year anniversary. How is it possible in the age of changing jobs every 2-3 years? We go deep into how Westage operates, how they hold morning huddles, and why doctors are called “guests”. Ray shares how they develop talent, keep the team motivated and inner dynamics of doctors, hygienists, dental assistants and front office. Ray shares how they view Dental Assistant role as a career path at Westgate and shares details how every DA starts, responsibilities and the growth to Independent Dental Assistant. We also touch on what makes the owner, Dr. Kics, a special person, things he does that people do not see, and how he manages the team and associate doctors to keep everyone motivated and what helped Rajmonda to stay with the practice for 20 years! 

Why does customer support in software sucks so much? We were curious too and decided to chat with our customer support rockstar Jillian Gomez (Head of Customer Support, until May 2023) what we are doing differently at Zen. How do we prioritize? What is essential to keeping really good people on the team. Tiger will provide his thoughts on how much time he spends (if any) motivating the team. Listen in as they walk through internal news, new product launches and what keeps the team at ZenSupplies and ZenOne excited. 

In this episode, we discuss 3D printing and excitement around Hololenses by Microsoft (more on this here). It's really a neat product that can take dentistry to a completely new level. Dr. Aaron and I also cover the news of overJet AI and Bola AI partnership. 

In this podcast episode, Melissa Widner, CEO of Lighter Capital, sits down with Tiger Safarov, the founder of ZenSupplies, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way. ZenSupplies is a technology platform designed to streamline the day-to-day operations of dental practices, and Tiger's story of how he started the company from scratch is truly inspiring.

In this episode I interview Ayrat, co-owner of Cedar Park Dental Wellness. They have been open for almost 2 years and already have seen success in growth and challenges in the operations. We discuss ordering and inventory challenges, how to delegate, and what is missing in all of the software options today to have a sense of knowing what you are buying online. Link: cedarparkdentalwellness.com 

Amanda is a Facility and Supply Manager  at Bubon Orthodontics, a group of 15 specialty locations in the Midwest with 60 staff members and most of them being with the company for almost 15 years. We cover so many different topics, from how they first started using ZenSupplies a few years ago , growth mindset , managing veteran employees and the mindset of bringing on board a young generation of dentists and dental assistants. Lilly, Amanda poppy, jumped into the conversation to help keep it light and fun!Bio: Hi! My name is Amanda and I've been in the dental field for almost 20 years and have worked at a growing orthodontic practice in southeastern Wisconsin for the last 15 years.  I've done most things that you can think of in the dental field from assisting in different specialties like pedodontics, oral surgery, general, and more recently orthodontics, I've done billing and insurance correspondence, ordering, facility maintenance, and staff management.  I'm no expert, but experience has shown me a lot and this accidental career has served me well over the course of my life. 

In this interview we talk with Dr. Daryl Brito who started a dental supply company right after dental school and while working for a DSO. His primary drive was to find a second stream of income to pay off $400K in student loans as soon as possible. We discuss the journey, pros and cons working for DSO, burn out in dentistry and how to avoid it being a fresh grad. How to set up your schedule for optimal performance and set the right goals to avoid burnout. Dr. Brito's motto was “I was living like a dentist while in dental school and like a dental student as a dentist”. Dr. Brito goes into details about the side hustle, how much he makes and what the future plans are. It's really fascinating to see a highly dedicated person achieve so much success in a short amount of time. Dr. Brito Bio:Dr. Daryl Brito was born and raised in Wayne, New Jersey.  After graduating from high school he went to Manipal, India to study dentistry for the first time at Manipal University. After 4 years he got his B.D.S. and came to Florida to obtain his D.M.D. at Nova Southeastern University.Dr. Brito works with patients of all ages and finds so much of dentistry to be rewarding. Above all, he is driven by how he can help change a person's life- whether by improving their smile or reducing any pain. He continues to learn C.E. to stay on top of the new technologies and procedures that can help him be more efficient and effective so that patients can come and go with ease.Dr. Brito finds pleasure in spending time with his close friends and family, working out, and practicing yoga. He loves to travel and learn about the different cultures of the world. He appreciates what he has in his life and wants to spend every moment making the most of it.