Podcasts about best practices show

Do you know exactly where money can slip through the cracks in your practice—and what to do about it before it becomes a major problem? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back David Harris, dental-exclusive forensic investigator and embezzlement expert, to break down the division of duties in a dental practice and explain how to apply it in real workflows. You'll learn the six-step revenue cycle, the three rules that reduce opportunity for theft, and practical ways to create checks and balances in both large and small practices. Listen to Episode 1013 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysEmbezzlement requires both theft and concealment, and separating duties makes concealment harder.Enter treatment in the operatory by the clinician present so patient balances exist before payments are taken.Start by entering the full fee and use adjustments to document intentional discounts.In the revenue cycle, limit any one person to no more than two financial tasks.Do not allow the same person to perform consecutive steps in the financial workflow.Balancing must occur daily, even though it is more complex now due to multiple payment methods and timing delays.Practice owners should reconcile monthly by comparing collections in software to bank deposits and tracking variances over time.Snippets00:00 Welcome01:49 Meet David Harris03:33 How Common Embezzlement Is06:58 Why Division Matters11:03 Revenue Cycle Breakdown12:27 Rule One Enter Treatment17:22 Rule Two Limit Roles19:53 Small Practice Workarounds21:18 Mail Check Oversight23:11 Balancing Gets Complex25:59 Monthly Reconciliation Method28:35 Spotting Theft Patterns31:01 Trust Systems Not People33:59 Discreet Audit Options35:20 Risk Assessment Tools37:33 How to Contact Them38:47 Closing TakeawaysGuest Bio/Guest ResourcesDavid Harris is a dental-exclusive forensic investigator who has spent more than three decades investigating employee theft and embezzlement in dental practices. He works with a team that conducts forensic audits and investigations focused exclusively on dentistry, helping practice owners identify risk and implement systems to reduce opportunity for theft.Resources mentioned:Prosperident: https://www.prosperident.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association:

Most practices have plenty of numbers but still feel unclear about what to work on next. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt talks with Miranda Beason about why many dental practices don't have a data problem — they have a focus problem — and how to use quarterly priorities and the right metrics to create alignment, reduce chaos, and make steady progress toward annual goals. To learn how to set focus, choose what to measure, and lead your team with calmer, clearer direction, listen to Episode 1012 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysMore data does not create clarity unless the practice has clear priorities and a defined direction.Annual planning works best when it's translated into quarterly priorities that connect to day-to-day execution.When focus is missing, leadership often reacts to what feels urgent or “loud” instead of following a strategy.Practices build momentum when they choose two to four priorities for a 12-week quarter and measure progress consistently.Tracking fewer, quarter-specific metrics is more effective than maintaining a constant list of 30–40 KPIs.Weekly reporting improves a team's ability to make timely changes compared to waiting until the end of the month.Metrics gain traction when leaders clearly communicate the purpose, the team's role, and how the focus supports the patient experience.Snippets00:00 Metric Monday Kickoff: Data Doesn't Fix Everything01:57 Meet Miranda: Most Practices Have a Focus Problem02:40 Why Data Creates Alignment (and Removes Emotion)04:52 When You Get It Wrong: Chaos, Fires, and Moving Targets08:11 Real-World ‘Loud' Moments: Snow Days, Short Months & Panic09:44 When You Get It Right: Annual Goals → Quarterly Priorities13:06 Leading vs. Lagging Indicators: Staying Calm Under Pressure14:27 What You Can Do Today: Pick a Focus + Track the Right KPIs16:28 Report Weekly, Celebrate Wins, and Tie Metrics to Patient Experience17:47 Wrap-Up: Get Help, Stay Focused, and Build a Better PracticeGuest Bio/Guest ResourcesMiranda Beeson has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities to find value in experiences and cultivate new approaches.Miranda graduated from Old Dominion University, and enjoys spending time with her husband, Chuck, and her children, Trent, Mallory, and Cassidy. Family time is the best time, and is often spent on a golf course, a volleyball court, or spending the day boating at the beach.More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association:

Private practice is getting squeezed by complexity, competition, and promises that “bigger is better.” That pressure is pushing more dentists to consider selling, scaling, or giving up control. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt talks with Dr. Christian Coachman, dentist and educator, about why celebrating independent private practice matters, why quality in dentistry isn't scalable, and what private practitioners can do to stay clinically excellent without burning out. To learn how community, support, and smart strategy can help you protect your freedom and your standards, listen to Episode 1011 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysPrivate practice protects the dentist's freedom to make key decisions that support quality and patient-first care.Motivation, attention to detail, and passion can decline when a practice is sold and clinical decisions are influenced by outside ownership.Quality in dentistry is not scalable, and it typically drops as practices grow beyond a size that can be closely managed.The temptation to scale often hits when a dentist reaches a ceiling on fees but demand continues to grow.Independent dentists can gain many advantages of large organizations by joining a real community that offers support and shared resources.The increasing demands of technology, marketing, leadership, and management are pressuring private practitioners and fueling DSO interest.Many dentists who sell are financially relieved but still want their freedom back once non-compete periods end.Snippets00:00 Intro – Protecting Independent Private Practice01:12 Why Private Practice Matters02:45 Introducing Dr. Christian Coachman04:10 Celebrating the Freedom of Ownership06:30 The Current Challenges Facing Private Dentists08:55 The Mindset Shift Required to Stay Independent11:20 Why Community and Collaboration Matter13:40 Innovation in Modern Private Practice16:05 The Future of Independent Dentistry18:30 Why Events Like The Exchange Matter20:10 Final Thoughts – Choosing Freedom Intentionally21:32 OutroGuest Bio/Guest ResourcesDr. Christian Coachman is a dentist and dental technician known internationally for his work in dental communication, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He is the founder of Digital Smile Design and has spent decades working inside dental practices, observing patient interactions, and teaching clinicians how to communicate more effectively with patients and teams. He lectures globally and consults with dentists seeking to improve trust, case acceptance, and long-term patient relationships.Guest resources mentioned in the episode:Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.comDr. Christian Coachman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriscoachmanMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show:

Are you relying on the sale of your practice to fund your retirement? Before you accept an attractive offer from a DSO, it's critical to understand what those numbers really mean — and what alternatives exist.In this episode, Kirk Behrendt interviews Dr. Bob Margeas, founder of Iowa Dental Group in Des Moines, Iowa, about how he evaluated multiple DSO offers, broke down EBITDA and earn-outs, and ultimately chose a different transition strategy. They discuss adjusted EBITDA, recap risk, associate buy-ins, creative ownership structures, and why equity matters more than a headline purchase price. If you're considering selling your practice — or simply want to understand your options — listen to Episode 1010 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysEBITDA is calculated differently than a dentist's net income and often includes add-backs that significantly change a practice's valuation.Most DSOs evaluate practices on an accrual basis rather than cash basis accounting, which affects perceived profitability.Earn-outs and recapitalization payouts are tied to performance and market conditions and are not guaranteed.Selling to a DSO typically requires the dentist to stay for several years, effectively replacing future EBITDA with the sale proceeds.Structuring an associate buy-in based on trailing three-year profits can allow debt to be serviced without increasing production.Ownership equity creates long-term wealth potential that an associate-only model does not provide.Dentists who are financially independent have more flexibility and leverage when evaluating transition options.Snippets00:00 Intro03:00 The difference between a DSO and a DPO.05:00 Understanding EBITDA and common add-backs.08:00 Why DSOs prefer accrual accounting over cash basis.10:00 How earn-outs and clawbacks work.13:30 Hiring an associate based on personality and communication skills.15:00 Structuring a 20% buy-in using trailing three-year profits.17:00 Reducing clinical days while maintaining profitability.21:00 Merging practices into a holding company model.24:00 Why saving early creates flexibility at transition.30:00 “I'm just a referee” — communicating treatment without pressure.34:00 Why equity ownership is essential for long-term wealth.Guest Bio/Guest ResourcesDr. Bob Margeas is the founder of Iowa Dental Group in Des Moines, Iowa. He is a nationally recognized...

Many dental practices feel surprised by their numbers at the end of the month, even when they review reports regularly. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt sits down with Miranda Beeson, leadership coach at ACT Dental, to explain the difference between leading and lagging indicators and why relying too heavily on historical data creates stress, reactivity, and missed opportunities. They break down how leading indicators connect daily behaviors to long-term results, how to spot problems earlier, and how to use data to lead calmly instead of reactively. If you want to understand which numbers actually help you influence outcomes before it's too late, listen to Episode 1009 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysLagging indicators show what has already happened in a practice and cannot be changed once reported.Leading indicators help predict future outcomes and guide daily and weekly behavior.Practices that focus only on lagging indicators often feel blindsided and become reactive under pressure.Tracking leading indicators weekly allows leaders to correct course before the end of the month.Hygiene reappointment, diagnostic percentage, and case acceptance are examples of leading indicators that influence production.Teams engage more effectively when they understand which daily actions influence practice results.Snippets00:52 Leading indicators versus lagging indicators and why both matter.02:28 Why lagging indicators create reactive leadership and team stress.03:50 Using hygiene metrics to predict future production.06:11 Planning ahead for known schedule disruptions like holidays.07:38 What it looks like when practices rely only on lagging indicators.09:42 How leadership changes when leading indicators are used correctly.11:39 Tracking diagnostic percentage and case acceptance week over week.14:47 A simple first step to start using leading indicators today.Guest Bio/Guest ResourcesMiranda Beeson has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities to find value in experiences and cultivate new approaches.Miranda graduated from Old Dominion University and enjoys spending time with her husband, Chuck, and her children, Trent, Mallory, and Cassidy. Family time is the best time, and is often spent on a golf course, a volleyball court, or spending the day boating at the beach.More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show:

Is online continuing education enough to elevate your dentistry? With unlimited access to webinars, social media cases, and on-demand videos, it's easy to believe you can master complex procedures from a screen. But is that really how clinical excellence is built? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt interviews Dr. Adamo Notarantonio, educator, clinician, and faculty member at the Kois Center, about the critical differences between online and in-person learning. They discuss why hands-on training, mentorship, and layered learning are essential for developing technical skill, clinical judgment, and the ability to think under pressure. You'll learn how to adopt CE with patience, how to avoid the social media comparison trap, and why real growth requires more than watching a video. If you want to elevate your thinking and your results, listen to Episode 1008 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysIn-person, hands-on education is essential for mastering clinical techniques that cannot be fully learned through online videos.True clinical growth requires repetition, deliberate practice, and mentorship over time.Social media often presents highlight reels that do not reflect the full clinical reality behind cases.The ability to think outside the box during unexpected clinical situations separates good clinicians from great clinicians.Layered learning—lecture, hands-on application, mentorship, and case review—deepens understanding and improves implementation.Dentists should focus on competing with themselves rather than comparing their work to others.Adopting CE effectively requires patience and a long-term mindset rather than seeking rapid results.Snippets00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:18 Meet Adamo: A Special Guest01:20 The Importance of Continuing Education02:48 Adamo's Journey and Career Changes04:15 Hands-On Learning vs. Online Education07:43 The Value of In-Person Training09:48 Thinking Outside the Box in Dentistry12:22 Mindset and Continuous Learning14:47 The Reality of Social Media in Dentistry16:29 The Reality of Before and After16:41 The Trust Factor with Instagram16:58 AI in Dentistry Presentations17:29 The Importance of Clinical Tips18:20 The Role of Educators in Dentistry

Running a dental practice can feel like an endless cycle of putting out fires, reacting to problems, and repeating the same frustrations day after day. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt sits down with Christina Burn, Director of Operations at ACT Dental, to explain why most of these daily issues stem from a lack of clear systems, not people. Together, they break down how systems create predictability, reduce stress, improve team accountability, and support long-term growth. You'll learn where to start with systems, how to build them with your team, and how to keep them relevant as your practice evolves. To learn how to stop firefighting and start creating predictability, listen to Episode 1007 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Most recurring daily problems in a dental practice are caused by missing or unclear systems rather than individual team performance.Systems create predictability, which leads to less stress, better patient experiences, and more consistent outcomes for doctors and teams.Practices should aim to be systems-driven instead of people-dependent to avoid burnout and constant staff additions.Effective systems start with a clearly defined “why” that connects directly to patient experience and team success.The best systems are created collaboratively during dedicated team meeting time, not by the doctor alone or outside of work hours.Systems should be specific, step-by-step, and written clearly so anyone in the practice can follow them when needed.Systems must be treated as living tools that are reviewed, updated, and improved as the practice grows and changes.Snippets:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:08 The Importance of Systems in Dentistry01:28 Meet Christina Burn: Director of Operations02:30 Common Issues in Dental Practices03:23 Creating Effective Systems05:52 The Why Behind Systems09:58 Implementing and Refining Systems13:22 The 80% Approach to System Development16:02 Specificity in Systems20:32 Living Systems: Continuous Improvement25:11 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGuest Bio/Guest Resources:Christina Byrne is the Director of Operations at ACT Dental, where she oversees coaching alignment, system development, and operational consistency across practices nationwide. She works closely with dental teams to help them build scalable systems that improve predictability, accountability, and long-term practice performance. In this episode, Christina references ACT Dental resources including the Analyzing...

Many dental leaders make decisions based on how the day feels instead of what the data shows. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt is joined by Miranda Beeson, ACT Dental coach and leadership advisor, to explain why leading from emotion creates reactive leadership and how metrics create clarity, consistency, and confidence for teams. You will learn how data removes emotion from decision-making, how to pause emotional reactions, and how to use key performance indicators to guide smarter conversations and actions. Listen to Episode 1006 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysLeading from feelings creates reactive decision-making and inconsistency for the team.Metrics reveal patterns over time and provide an objective truth that removes emotion from leadership conversations.Data-driven leadership allows teams to align around priorities and solve problems instead of chasing anxiety.Reviewing metrics consistently helps leaders respond thoughtfully rather than react emotionally.Sharing data weekly builds accountability and ownership across the entire team.Measuring and reporting on a focus area regularly accelerates improvement.Verifying emotional reactions with data builds trust and credibility as a leader.Snippets01:43 Why today's Metric Monday focuses on feelings versus data.02:18 How leading with data creates smarter leadership decisions.03:20 How personal bias disappears when data is introduced.04:38 What reactive leadership looks like in a dental practice.06:05 Why leading with feelings creates inconsistency for teams.07:42 How teams unify when data is shared consistently.08:45 Using weekly reporting to drive improvement.10:18 Pausing emotional reactions and verifying them with data.13:25 Asking which KPI confirms or challenges a feeling.14:50 Using capacity data to validate schedule concerns.15:45 Why coaches help remove emotional stories from leadership decisions.Guest Bio/Guest ResourcesMiranda Beeson has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities to find value in experiences and cultivate new approaches.Miranda graduated from Old Dominion University and enjoys spending time with her husband, Chuck, and her children, Trent, Mallory, and...

Most dentists treat sleep as optional until performance drops, patience gets shorter, and focus slips. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt talks with Dr. Uche Odiatu, health and fitness educator for dentistry, about sleep hygiene fundamentals that improve energy, cognition, metabolic health, and daily productivity. You will learn why seven hours is the minimum, why “sleep debt” can't be repaid on weekends, and the practical habits that make sleep deeper and more consistent. Listen to Episode 1005 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysSeven hours is the minimum sleep needed for most adults to avoid ongoing sleep deprivation.“Catching up” on sleep over the weekend does not fully reverse the effects of several nights of poor sleep.Morning outdoor light exposure helps reset circadian rhythm and supports falling asleep more easily at night.Daily physical activity builds physiological sleep drive beyond mental fatigue from a long clinical day.Alcohol can make you feel sedated but reduces deep sleep quality and interferes with memory consolidation and emotional regulation.Eating within three hours of bedtime can reduce sleep quality because the body is focused on digestion.Evening light control, including avoiding bright overhead LED lighting and late-night scrolling, supports melatonin and sleep depth.Snippets01:56 Seven hours as the minimum, and how being awake too long affects performance.03:44 Why “sleep debt” can't be repaid on weekends.06:23 Morning sunlight and outdoor exposure to reset circadian rhythm.09:35 Why sedentary days reduce true sleep drive, even when you feel mentally exhausted.11:28 Alcohol as sedation vs. sleep, and what it does to deep sleep and retention.17:35 Eating close to bedtime and the impact on sleep quality.18:45 Managing evening light by avoiding overhead LEDs after sunset.20:35 Doomscrolling, dopamine hits, and how small amounts of light disrupt physiology.24:10 “Become a sleep master” before chasing other wellness tools.Guest Bio/Guest ResourcesDr. Uche Odiatu has a DMD (Doctor of Dental Medicine). He is a professional member of the ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), a Certified Personal Trainer NSCA (National Strength & Conditioning Association), and the Canadian Association of Fitness Professionals (canfitpro). He is the co-author of The Miracle of Health and has lectured in Canada, the USA, the Caribbean, the UK, and Europe. He is an invited guest on over 400 TV and radio shows, from ABC 20/20, Canada CTV AM, Breakfast TV, to Magic Sunday Drum FM in Texas. This high-energy healthcare professional has done over 450 lectures in seven...

Leaves of absence are complicated, highly regulated, and often misunderstood in dental practices. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt sits down with Alan Twigg, HR expert at Ben Erickson Administrative Services, to explain how leaves of absence actually work, why documentation matters, and how dentists can protect their practices while treating team members fairly. You'll learn how to identify protected leave, handle medical and mental health requests, manage return-to-work issues, and avoid common mistakes that lead to liability. Listen to Episode 1004 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysA leave of absence typically applies when an employee will be out for more than one week and may trigger state or federal protections.The reason for the leave determines which laws apply, so employers must clearly document whether the leave is due to pregnancy, medical conditions, mental health, or family care.Mental health conditions are medical conditions and may qualify for protected leave under disability laws.Every leave of absence should have a documented start date and an estimated return date to prevent confusion and legal risk.Medical certifications and job descriptions are essential tools for determining work restrictions and accommodations.Most leaves of absence are unpaid, but accrued PTO is usually used at the beginning of the leave as wage replacement.Employees on protected leave generally must be reinstated to the same role, pay, and hours unless the position is legitimately eliminated.Snippets00:39 What qualifies as a leave of absence versus regular sick time.02:06 Why state and federal leave laws vary by location and practice size.04:18 Mental health as a protected medical condition.07:38 Pregnancy and disability protections explained.10:40 Why every leave needs a defined return date.13:27 Risks of replacing an employee on protected leave.14:21 Medical certification and job descriptions.17:38 Accommodations and undue hardship.19:29 Health insurance and benefits during leave.20:55 Using accrued PTO during a leave of absence.24:27 Medical release and return-to-work requirements.27:33 When a leave of absence is not legally protected.30:40 Documentation tips to protect the practice.Guest Bio/Guest ResourcesAlan Twigg is an HR specialist with Ben Erickson Administrative...

Marketing costs can easily drift without clear benchmarks, clear goals, or reliable data. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt continues the Metric Monday series with practice coach Ariel Siegel to break down marketing percentage as part of overall overhead. They explain what marketing percentage actually measures, why the benchmark matters, how internal and external marketing must align, and how to evaluate return on investment using real practice data. If you want to understand how much you should be spending on marketing and how to know whether it's working, listen to Episode 1003 of The Best Practices Show!Main TakeawaysMarketing percentage measures the total percentage of revenue spent on both internal and external marketing efforts.The general benchmark for marketing spend is around 3%, depending on whether a practice is in growth or maintenance mode.Effective marketing fuels new patient growth while also strengthening the practice brand.Internal marketing systems and patient experience must align with external marketing efforts.Tracking return on investment requires comparing marketing spend to new patient numbers and resulting production.High marketing spend without strong systems can result in poor conversions and wasted dollars.Snippets00:56 What marketing percentage measures01:44 The 3% benchmark and why it varies03:07 How marketing impacts new patient growth and branding04:22 Why more new patients is not always better06:52 Using ROI to evaluate marketing effectiveness08:12 How to respond when marketing percentage is too high10:03 Using call and conversion data to diagnose marketing performance11:34 Final Thoughts on Marketing StrategiesGuest Bio/Guest ResourcesAriel has a master's in healthcare administration and several years of dental experience in all aspects of the administrative roles within the dental office. Her passion is to work with dental teams to empower team members to realize their full potential in order to better serve patients, improve office systems to ensure a well-functioning team/office, and to help everyone have fun in the process!More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:The Best Practices Show: https://www.actdental.com/podcast/Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaUpcoming Events & Workshops: https://www.actdental.com/events/Smile Source: https://www.smilesource.com/

Poor communication can quietly undermine trust, case acceptance, and long-term relationships with patients — even when the clinical work is excellent. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt sits down with Dr. Christian Coachman, dentist, dental technician, and founder of Digital Smile Design, to identify the most common communication mistakes dentists make with patients and teams. You'll learn why context matters, how confidence and humility work together, why “selling” erodes trust, and how practicing communication changes outcomes. If you want patients to understand you, trust you, and move forward with care, listen to Episode 1002 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Communication skills have a greater impact on patient trust and case acceptance than clinical outcomes alone.Failing to give proper context is one of the most common communication mistakes dentists make with patients and teams.Asking better, more complete questions leads to better answers and more efficient collaboration.Confidence without humility sounds arrogant, while humility without confidence sounds weak; effective communication requires both.Dentists rarely practice communication skills, which leads to repeated mistakes over long careers.Explaining dentistry by “thinking out loud” or using jargon confuses patients and erodes trust.Showing patients visual information builds trust more effectively than selling or persuading verbally.Snippets:07:35 Why communication determines how far you go in dentistry.08:18 The problem with not giving patients enough context.13:27 Why poorly formed questions waste time and limit answers.20:44 Confidence versus humility in patient communication.26:46 Why dentists need to practice communication like a clinical skill.33:49 How selling dentistry destroys trust while showing builds it.38:09 Why love and trust come from communication, not clinical work alone.Dr. Christian Coachman Bio:Dr. Christian Coachman is a dentist and dental technician known internationally for his work in dental communication, treatment planning, and interdisciplinary collaboration. He is the founder of Digital Smile Design and has spent decades working inside dental practices, observing patient interactions, and teaching clinicians how to communicate more effectively with patients and teams. He lectures globally and consults with dentists seeking to improve trust, case acceptance, and long-term patient relationships.Digital Smile Design: https://digitalsmiledesign.com

Great dentistry doesn't sell itself if patients can't see it. Many dentists struggle to explain conditions, earn trust, and grow into the type of practice they want because their communication relies too heavily on words. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt sits down with Dr. Zach Sisler, cosmetic dentist and educator, to break down the three lessons he learned the hard way about dental photography. You'll learn how photography improves case acceptance, strengthens branding, sharpens clinical skills, and creates better communication with patients, labs, specialists, and your team. If you want photography to work for your practice instead of sitting unused, listen to Episode 1001 of The Best Practices Show!Main Takeaways:Dental photography helps clinicians get out of their own way by letting patients see conditions instead of hearing long explanations.What dentists find impressive in photos is often different from what patients want to see, which is typically full-face smiles and relatable transformations.Consistent photography strengthens a practice's brand and helps patients recognize what services are possible.Treating camera equipment as an investment requires daily use; unused equipment produces no return.Reviewing clinical photos allows dentists to self-critique and continuously improve their restorative outcomes.Photography improves communication with labs and specialists by providing clearer information and better collaboration.Snippets:02:20 Who Dr. Zach Sisler is and how his practice evolved.05:00 Why dental photography is a non-negotiable for modern practices.07:47 How photography helped Zach get out of his own way with patient communication.12:05 The difference between what dentists want to see and what patients want to see.18:14 Why branding matters and how photography supports it.19:16 Treating camera equipment like gym equipment to get a return on investment.23:26 How photography improves clinical self-critique and growth.29:23 How photos improve lab and specialist relationships.34:23 Addressing time concerns and when to invest in photography.36:29 How much of the photography should be delegated to the team.Dr. Zach Sisler Bio:Dr. Zach Sisler is a cosmetic dentist and educator practicing in rural central Pennsylvania. He transitioned a traditionally focused practice into an aesthetics-driven practice by integrating comprehensive dental photography, advanced restorative techniques, and consistent branding. Dr. Sisler teaches hands-on photography and over-the-shoulder restorative courses, both in his office and on-site for dental teams across the...

When overhead is high, you buy cheaper supplies. But there's a better way! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Ariel Siegel, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to continue the series on overhead and break down supplies percentage. She shares why your numbers may be high, how that impacts your practice, and what you can do about it. For the treatment plan to reduce waste and overspending on supplies, listen to Episode 1000 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Ariel:Send Ariel an email: ariel@actdental.com Follow Ariel on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:...

Success isn't just about the medals. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Amanda Seay, president of the AACD, and Dr. Zach Sisler, board chair of the AACD, to share their journeys and lessons of the accreditation process and the importance of investing in yourself for your future. To learn what success could look like for you, listen to Episode 999 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Seay & Dr. Sisler:Join Dr. Seay on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrAmandaSeayFollow Dr. Seay on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dramandaseayJoin Dr. Sisler on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmilesBySislerFollow Dr. Sisler on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_zachsislerRegister for the AACD Scientific Session (April 16-18, 2026): https://www.aacdconference.com/event/1a1b9fe4-2097-4006-b107-822d4da3654b/main-menuMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store:

Your expenses go up year over year — and so should your fees! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to help you think better about your fees and provide tips for when and how to raise them. To learn how to start owning your value and charging what you're worth, listen to Episode 998 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Your accountant says your practice is profitable. So, why doesn't it feel like it? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to break down the cash flow gap, what it is, and how not understanding it affects your practice. To learn how to close your cash flow gap so you can grow your practice, listen to Episode 997 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Every year, you set goals to become healthier. But every year, you fall off the wagon! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Uche Odiatu, one of ACT's favorite health and wellness gurus, to share three steps to stay on course to improve your health and life. To learn how to stop overthinking and just start doing, listen to Episode 996 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Odiatu:Send Dr. Odiatu an email: odiatudmd@gmail.comFollow Dr. Odiatu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitspeakersLearn more on Dr. Odiatu's website: http://www.druche.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Things happen that you don't plan for — and you want to be prepared! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Paul Sletten, founder of The Sletten Group, to share how to plan for the unplanned by creating a crisis coverage group to protect you and your practice. To learn how to plan smarter and have peace of mind, listen to Episode 995 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Paul:Give Paul a call: (303) 699-0990Send Paul an email: paul@lifetransitions.com Learn more about The Sletten Group: https://theslettengroup.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Is your practice creating wealth, or is it just keeping you “busy”? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to break down production, why it's important to understand, and how to start improving your numbers. To learn how to be more profitable so you have a better practice and better life, listen to Episode 994 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Avoiding conflict is like ignoring a cavity — it will eventually become a crisis! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings in Michelle Wakeman, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to share the right way to address conflict so your team and practice can function at their best. To learn how to proactively manage conflict as a leader, listen to Episode 993 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Michelle:Send Michelle an email: michelle@actdental.com Follow Michelle on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Are you struggling to figure out shared network agreements? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Sandi Hudson, founder of Unlock the PPO, to help you navigate the complex world of PPOs with her expert advice. To learn everything you need to know about shared network agreements for the new year, listen to Episode 992 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Sandi:Join Sandi on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnlockThePPOFollow Sandi on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unlocktheppoLearn more about Unlock the PPO: https://unlocktheppo.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Are your lab costs a little too high? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Robyn Theisen, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to continue the series on overhead and break down lab percentage. They explain what it is, how it impacts your practice, and what to do to maintain a healthy lab percentage. To learn how to lower your lab costs the smart way, listen to Episode 991 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Robyn:Send Robyn an email: robyn@actdental.com Follow Robyn on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Have you ever hired someone, then regretted it six months later? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Carlie Einarson, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to share four key types of interview questions that will help you prevent bad hires. To learn the most important step to finding the right people, listen to Episode 990 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Carlie:Send Carlie an email: carlie@actdental.com Follow Carlie on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Numbers tell a story, and you can use them to change your practice. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Robyn Theisen, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to share a few critical metrics that will make the biggest impact. To learn which data points to focus on to improve your practice, listen to Episode 989 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Robyn:Send Robyn an email: robyn@actdental.com Follow Robyn on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com Send Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Rent and equipment is a huge part of overhead. But there are other costs hidden in those categories! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Robyn Theisen, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to continue the series on overhead and break down facilities and equipment percentage. To find out where else your money is being spent and how you can improve your overhead, listen to Episode 988 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Robyn:Send Robyn an email: robyn@actdental.comFollow Robyn on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.comSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease

Do you dream of running a successful practice? Then core values aren't optional! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Heather Crockett, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to share why core values are critical and how to do them the right way. Don't just paste your values on the walls! To learn how to keep them alive in your halls, listen to Episode 987 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Heather:Send Heather an email: heather@actdental.com Join Heather on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.r.crockettFollow Heather on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free:

Everyone from your kids to your vet is using AI. But how should you use it in your dental practice? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Travis Wentworth, cybersecurity expert from Intelligence Quest, to share some best practices that you and your dental team should know when using AI. To learn about the precautions to take to keep your patients and practice safe, listen to Episode 986 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Travis:Follow Travis on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travis_iqJoin Travis on Twitter: https://x.com/travisiqLearn more about Intelligence Quest: https://intelligencequest.comWatch Intelligence Quest on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@intelligencequestMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free:

You buy cheaper cotton rolls and the cheapest gloves. But your operational overhead is still too high! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to continue the series on overhead and break down operations percentage. Buying cheap supplies won't help your practice! To learn about the hidden costs that are impacting your overhead, listen to Episode 985 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.comFollow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast:

Things happen, and your team will be late or absent. But when does it become a problem, and what can you do about it? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Alan Twigg, president of Bent Ericksen & Associates, to help you navigate and address chronic attendance issues that are happening in your practice. To learn how to get your team to show up for you and your patients, listen to Episode 984 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Alan:Give Alan a call: (800) 679-2760Send Alan an email: alan@bentericksen.com Join Bent Ericksen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BentEricksenAssociatesLearn more about Bent Ericksen: https://bentericksen.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 984: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Understand your state, county, and city rules around attendance, sick leave, and PTO.When you don't address chronic attendance issues, your good employees will leave.Avoid creating policies that are too strict or rigid. They will come back to bite you.Know the requirements, limitations, and nuances around getting doctor's notes.Always document your employees' reasons for tardies and absences.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:38 Alan's background.2:26 Why this is an important topic.3:55 Mandatory sick leave, explained.6:16 Document the reason for an absence.9:46 Things to know about requiring doctor's notes.13:00 Attendance, sick leave, and PTO policies.15:22 Categorize the reasons for absences and tardies.17:52 Let them use their time.20:34 Don't solve your team members' problems.23:50 Your employee says they're sick, but . . .27:02 Leave of absence, explained.28:02 Being chronically late versus...

Insurance can be frustrating to figure out on your own. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Shelley DeGroff, founder of PPO Advisors, to decode some of the biggest changes in the PPO world and share two things you need to do to improve your reimbursements in the upcoming year. To stay up to date with PPO changes and prevent future revenue loss, listen to Episode 983 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Shelley:Send Shelley an email: shelley@ppoadvisors.com Join PPO Advisors on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPOAdvisorsLLCLearn more about PPO Advisors: https://ppoadvisors.comMention this episode or visit this link to receive $500 off your analysis fee: https://learn.ppoadvisors.com/promoMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 983: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosWatch Episode 954 with Shelley DeGroff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjJ6cLq_k50Main Takeaways:Stay on top of your EOBs by auditing them regularly.Evaluate your master fee to ensure you're paid what you're owed.Learn what stacking order means and how it can affect your practice.Opt-outs are not automatic! Be proactive so they are processed correctly.You don't need to be 100% PPO or 100% fee-for-service. Have a healthy mix.Don't get complacent or comfortable. Understand the contracts you're agreeing to.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:16 Shelley's background.2:10 A refresher on important PPO changes.7:15 Audit your EOBs regularly.10:23 Master fee, explained.17:29 Stacking order, explained.20:55 How PPO...

Running a business is expensive — and a large portion goes to your team. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to kick off a series on overhead with team compensation percentage. They break down what it is, how it impacts your practice, and what you can do to improve your numbers. To learn how to keep team compensation in a healthy range, listen to Episode 982 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 982: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Think of team compensation as an investment, not an expense.Your team compensation percentage should be between 25% and 30%.If team compensation percentage is over 30%, you are too people-dependent.Define accountabilities, processes, and responsibilities to be systems-dependent.Consider profit-sharing models or hourly plus commission so your team can earn more.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:06 Team compensation percentage, explained.3:53 How this metric impacts the practice.10:16 What you can do to impact this metric.16:47 ACT's BPA.Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH Bio:Miranda Beeson has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities to find value in experiences and cultivate new...

Are you truly a great leader? Or are you overestimating how good you are? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings in Michelle Wakeman, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to reframe what it means to be a leader, why it's important, and to share some of the best leadership lessons from thriving practices. To learn how to lead with confidence to build a successful practice, listen to Episode 981 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Michelle:Send Michelle an email: michelle@actdental.com Follow Michelle on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com Send Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 981: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead Traction by Gino Wickman: https://benbellabooks.com/shop/tractionMain Takeaways:Have a clear vision. Your vision is what provides direction for your team.Clearly define your clinical, financial, team culture, and life vision.Communicate your vision and core values to your team.Repeat your vision and core values for alignment.Walk the talk as the leader. Set the example.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.0:58 ACT/Smile Source and BPA.3:29 Why this is an important topic.4:50 How does this show up in your practice?10:22 Three key things that great leaders define.14:02 Vision provides direction.18:44 Four key areas of practice vision: Clinical vision.22:51 Four key areas of practice vision: Financial vision.26:13 Four key

Dentists aren't just clinicians — they're also leaders and entrepreneurs! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to share how to balance these three circles so you can gain control of your practice and reclaim your life. To start enjoying life in 2026 and beyond, listen to Episode 980 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 980: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to ACT's BPA for their Dental Practice Success Triad tool: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Fdental-practice-success-triad#emailRead The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber: https://www.michaelegerbercompanies.com/product/the-e-myth-revisitedLearn more about The Sletten Group: https://theslettengroup.comMain Takeaways:As a practice owner, you need to balance being a clinician, leader, and entrepreneur.Don't just “live in the chair”. If you neglect the other two circles, you can't thrive.Your practice will only grow to the level of your least developed circle.Anyone can improve their leadership and...

For the month of December, we look back at some favorite episodes of 2025. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT's CEO, to break down the one basic equation you need to know to produce more while working less. Stop spending 220 days at the office! To learn how to produce more the right way, listen to Episode 979 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Straub:Send Dr. Straub an email: barrett@actdental.com Join Dr. Straub on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrett.d.straubSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com Send Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 979: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:There are two ways to produce more: work more days or produce more per day.Figure out your production per day and gross production target for the year.Set your goals and decisions based on data, not with your emotions.Just working more days is not the answer. You need a plan.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:37 Why this is an important topic.2:48 Why emotion comes into this equation.3:49 The equation for gross production.7:06 Two key numbers to pull.12:35 Time is the new rich.14:21 Final thoughts.16:47 ACT's BPA.Dr. Barrett Straub Bio:Dr. Barrett Straub practices general and sedation dentistry in Port Washington, Wisconsin. He has worked hard to develop his practice into a top-performing, fee-for-service practice that focuses on improving the lives of patients through dentistry.A graduate of Marquette Dental School, Dr. Straub's...

Healthcare isn't broken — it's rigged against wellness and patient care! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings in Dr. Bryan Laskin, author of Unfair Care, to share his “why” behind this book and his mission to empower patients to get the best care possible in dentistry and medicine. To learn how you and your patients can make healthcare work better for you, listen to Episode 978 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Laskin:Join Dr. Laskin on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrBryanLaskinFollow Dr. Laskin on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbryanlaskinLearn more on Dr. Laskin's website: https://bryanlaskin.comLearn more about Toothapps and Cair: https://www.toothapps.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 978: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead The Patient First Manifesto by Dr. Bryan Laskin: https://www.amazon.com/Patient-First-Manifesto-Practice-Dreams/dp/1736643711Read Dental Disorder by Dr. Bryan Laskin: https://www.amazon.com/Dental-Disorder-Bryan-Laskin/dp/1736643762Read Unfair Care by Dr. Bryan Laskin: https://www.amazon.com/Unfair-Care-Healthcare-Deserve-Designed/dp/1736643789Learn more about Smile Source Exchange: https://smilesource.com/exchangeMain...

You feel like your team just doesn't “get it”. But maybe it's you, the leader, that isn't getting it! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Jenni Poulos, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to reveal the two skills you need to build an aligned and committed team. Saying something once isn't communication! To learn how to inspire your team just by being clear, listen to Episode 977 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Jenni:Send Jenni an email: jenni@actdental.com Follow Jenni on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com Send Gina an email to learn more about ACT: gina@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 977: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to ACT's BPA for their Strategic Vision Creator tool: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Fstrategic-vision-creator-tool#emailRegister to ACT's BPA for their Chief Reminding Officer tool: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Fcro-chief-reminding-officer#emailMain Takeaways:Alignment starts with the leader.Get aligned on what alignment really...

For the month of December, we look back at some favorite episodes of 2025. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Barrett Straub, ACT's CEO, to break down your production story and explain why you don't need as many patients as you think. Stop the churn-and-burn dentistry that's burning you out! To learn how to rewrite and improve your production story, listen to Episode 976 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Straub:Send Dr. Straub an email: barrett@actdental.com Join Dr. Straub on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/barrett.d.straubMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 976: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to ACT's BPA for their Financial GAPs Calculator: https://www.actdental.com/bpaMain Takeaways:There's more to the production story than just how much you produced.Analyze your annual patient value, active patient count, and gross production.Stop filling production gaps with more patients. Do more dentistry on less patients.Do you want to be a dentist that chases 4,000 patients or have fewer, right patients?Figure out your production story now so you can figure out how to write it going forward.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:27 Why we need a production story.2:34 Important KPIs you need to know.6:49 Do more per active patient.11:48 Countermeasures you can start today.15:44 ACT's BPA and TTT.Dr. Barrett Straub Bio:Dr. Barrett Straub practices general and sedation dentistry in Port Washington, Wisconsin. He has worked hard to develop his practice into a top-performing, fee-for-service practice that focuses on improving the lives of patients through dentistry.A graduate of Marquette Dental School, Dr. Straub's advanced training and...

Freedom is what drew you to dentistry. But somehow, you're stuck working harder, earning less, and with less control of your time and life. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to share the key to impacting your freedom and profitability: understanding and mastering write-offs. To learn how to lower your write-offs so you can take back your time and money, listen to Episode 975 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 975: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosLearn more about Smile Source: https://smilesource.comLearn more about Clerri: https://clerri.comMain Takeaways:Figure out your effort gap, collections gap, overhead gap, and your cash flow gap.Know how many days a month you work, and how many you're working for free.Always put in your full fee. You may have more elective write-offs than you think.Evaluate your membership plan. How much are you charging versus writing off?Determine how much you're writing off by being part of an insurance plan.Eliminate emotional discounting. Learn to charge what you're worth.Start celebrating net production rather than gross production.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.0:57 Smile Source and ACT have merged!3:23 Why understanding write-offs is important.8:15 ACT's core focus and core purpose.9:34 ACT's GAPs

You're working hard, and you're super busy. So, why is your bank account empty? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Christina Byrne, ACT's director of operations, to help you understand the different financial gaps where your profit may be hiding. Don't let your hard-earned money slip through the cracks! To learn how to keep more of what you produce, listen to Episode 974 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Christina:Send Christina an email: christina@actdental.com Send Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 974: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to ACT's BPA for their GAPs at a Glance tool: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Ffinancial-gaps-at-a-glance#emailRegister to ACT's BPA for their PPO Freedom course: Sign in | Best Practices AssociationMain Takeaways:You may be losing a significant amount of money from your different financial gaps.Working harder isn't the answer. Find where money is leaking from your practice.Know your effort gap. Being busy doesn't equal more profitability and success.Understand your collections gap. Collecting 96% isn't as good as it sounds.Be aware of your overhead gap. Be smart with spending and budgeting.Pay attention to your cash flow gap so you understand true profit.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:42 Why this is an important topic.2:52 The effort gap.9:57 The...

You spend a ton of money on marketing to attract new patients. But how do you know if it's working? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to break down new patient by referral source, what it reveals about your marketing strategies, and where to focus your time and energy. To learn how to market more to your ideal patients, listen to Episode 973 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 973: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosLearn more about Pain-Free Dental Marketing: https://www.painfreedentalmarketing.comMain Takeaways:Where are new patients coming from? Knowing this helps you focus on what works.Tracking referral sources helps you align your messaging with your ideal patients.Build strong loyalty and relationships. It is the most cost-effective way to grow.Dig deeper when asking patients how they found out about your practice.Appoint a team member to track and report the data. Review it monthly.Create a system to celebrate your patients who give referrals.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.0:50 What new patient by referral source measures.2:47 How this metric impacts the practice.6:20 What you can do to impact this metric.13:19 Final takeaways.Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH Bio:Miranda Beeson has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking...

Sometimes, your “ideal dentistry” isn't ideal. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Christopher Mazzola and Dr. Charlie Ward, faculty members at the Pankey Institute, to share what to do when things aren't black-and-white for your treatment plans. To learn the systems that will lead you to success, listen to Episode 972 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Ward & Dr. Mazzola:Join Dr. Mazzola on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christopher.d.mazzolaFollow Dr. Mazzola on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherdmazzoladdsSend Dr. Ward an email: charlie@bmoredentalarts.com Follow Dr. Ward on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcwardddsRegister for Dr. Mazzola & Dr. Ward's Mastering Dental Photography course (July 30, 2026 to August 1, 2026): https://pankey.org/course-category/mdp/?courseId=17781Register for Dr. Mazzola & Dr. Ward's Mastering Treatment Planning course (September 10-12, 2026): https://pankey.org/course-category/mtp/?courseId=22975Register for Dr. Ward's Mastering Aesthetic Restorative Dentistry course (November 19-22, 2026): https://pankey.org/course-category/mard/?courseId=19847Follow CASE TXP on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/case_txpMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 972:...

Do you ever feel behind, inadequate, or unworthy of praise? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Charlie Ward and Dr. Rachel Ward, faculty members at The Pankey Institute, to share how to overcome the comparison trap in dentistry that is sabotaging your practice. If you're constantly questioning yourself, this episode is for you! To learn how to reframe your thinking and focus on the positives, listen to Episode 971 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Charlie Ward & Dr. Rachel Ward:Send Dr. Charlie Ward an email: charlie@bmoredentalarts.com Follow Dr. Charlie Ward on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcwardddsWatch Dr. Charlie Ward's webinars: https://restorativenation.comJoin Dr. Rachel Ward on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RachelWardDMDFollow Dr. Rachel Ward on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelwarddmdMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 971: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead Good to Great by Jim Collins: https://bookshop.org/p/books/good-to-great-why-some-companies-make-the-leap-and-other-s-don-t-jim-collins/ec0b317c56aaceb4?ean=9780066620992&next=tRead The Gap and the Gain by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy:...

Do you have a plan, or do you just hope new patients show up for appointments? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to break down new patient cancellation and no-show percentage and what you can do to reduce those numbers. To learn how to create strong scheduling, confirmation, and communication systems so your patients commit to showing up, listen to Episode 970 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 970: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Track your new patient cancellation separate from your cancellation percentage.If your cancellation or no-show is high, you are wasting valuable chair time.Strengthen your commitment language to communicate value to patients.Send personalized reminders to create an added level of commitment.Have a documented plan for unconfirmed new patient appointments.It is okay to release appointments. Create a clear process for it.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:19 Why this is an important metric and how it impacts the practice.5:41 What you can do to impact this metric.14:41 Final thoughts.Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH Bio:Miranda Beeson has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and speaking experience. She is enthusiastic about communication and loves helping others find the power that words can bring to their patient interactions and practice dynamics. As a Lead Practice Coach, she is driven to create opportunities...

You can thrive as a small practice — you just need to be strategic. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to share how to differentiate and close your operational gaps so you attract the best patients and the best team in a changing market. To learn how to create and maintain a thriving private practice, listen to Episode 969 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email for your Golden Ticket: courtney@actdental.com Send Gina an email for your Golden Ticket: gina@actdental.com Send Kirk an email for your Golden Ticket: kirk@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 969: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister for ACT's BPA for their Differentiation tool: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Fdifferentiation-tool#emailRegister for ACT's BPA for their GAPs at a Glance tool:...

Do you want this year to end well? Do you want next year to be better for your practice? In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Heather Crockett, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to share four questions to guide your year-end review so you can think beyond production and collections. To learn how to have thoughtful, intentional reflection and start building the practice you truly want, listen to Episode 968 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Heather:Send Heather an email: heather@actdental.com Join Heather on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.r.crockettFollow Heather on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Kirk an email for ACT's Practice Health Score guide: kirk@actdental.com Send Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 968: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to ACT's BPA for their Practice Health Score guide: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Fpractice-health-score#emailRegister to ACT's BPA for their Chief Reminding Officer resource:...

Identifying and living your core values is the most important thing you will ever do. In this episode, Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, brings in ACT's founder, Kirk Behrendt, to share the story behind their core values, how they came to be, and why core values matter to a dental practice. To gain insight and inspiration for your core values, listen to Episode 967 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 967: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosWatch Episode 4 with Howard Farran: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMMaSIrhv2QRead Traction by Gino Wickman: https://benbellabooks.com/shop/tractionRead books by Patrick Lencioni: https://www.tablegroup.com/booksMain Takeaways:Identify your core values. It's the most important thing you will ever do.Core values are your compass. Use it as a filter for your decisions.Attract the behaviors and people you want with core values.Weave your core values into the fabric of your practice.Your team is the secret sauce to success.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:52 Kirk and Miranda's journeys with core values.13:39 Core values: Give > Get.19:27 Core values: Walk the Talk.25:38 Core values: We Before Me.29:58 Core...

People want a longer lifespan. But it's also important to focus on health span. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Dr. Uche Odiatu, one of ACT's favorite health and wellness gurus, to share four keys to longevity that will help you live better, not just longer. To learn how you can sync up your health span to your lifespan, listen to Episode 966 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Dr. Odiatu:Email Dr. Odiatu for his workout: odiatudmd@gmail.com Follow Dr. Odiatu on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitspeakersLearn more on Dr. Odiatu's website: http://www.druche.comMore Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 966: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRead The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-body-keeps-the-score-brain-mind-and-body-in-the-healing-of-trauma-bessel-van-der-kolk-m-d/9e63236863805513?ean=9780143127741&next=tRead Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker, PhD: https://bookshop.org/p/books/why-we-sleep-unlocking-the-power-of-sleep-and-dreams-matthew-walker-phd/24217e9bcd5aeb1c?ean=9781501144325&next=tRead The Mind-Gut Connection by Emeran Mayer:...

Do too many of your patients owe you money? It's a symptom of an even bigger problem! In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Robyn Theisen, one of ACT's amazing coaches, to break down overdue accounts and share a four-step solution to eliminate it from your practice. To learn how to collect from patients before day 30, listen to Episode 965 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Robyn:Send Robyn an email: robyn@actdental.com Follow Robyn on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 965: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosRegister to ACT's BPA to watch Episode 764: Cash Flow Kings and Queens: The Dentist's Guide to Mastering Accounts Receivable: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpodcasts%2F764-cash-flow-kings-and-queens-the-dentist-s-guide-to-mastering-accounts-receivable-ariel-juday#emailRegister to ACT's BPA for their Managing an Accounts Receivable and Collections System: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Fmanaging-an-accounts-receivable-and-collections-system#emailRegister to ACT's BPA for their Sample Financial Arrangement Form:

Every healthy practice needs new patients. But you don't want to just have “more”. In this episode, Kirk Behrendt brings back Miranda Beeson, ACT's director of education, to break down new patient count and new patient growth, how to calculate actual patient growth, and what you can do to improve your numbers. To learn how to keep a consistent active patient count that's right for your practice, listen to Episode 964 of The Best Practices Show!Learn More About Miranda:Send Miranda an email: miranda@actdental.com Follow Miranda on ACT's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actdentalSend Courtney an email to learn more about ACT: courtney@actdental.com More Helpful Links for a Better Practice & a Better Life:Subscribe to The Best Practices Show: https://the-best-practices-show.captivate.fm/listenJoin The Best Practices Association: https://www.actdental.com/bpaDownload ACT's BPA app on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/best-practices-association/id6738960360Download ACT's BPA app on the Google Play Store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.actdental.join&hl=en_USJoin ACT's To The Top Study Club: https://www.actdental.com/tttGet The Best Practices Magazine for free: https://www.actdental.com/magazinePlease leave us a review on the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-best-practices-show-with-kirk-behrendt/id1223838218Episode Resources:Watch the video version of Episode 964: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosMain Takeaways:Track your new patient count to know how effective your scheduling and marketing is.Healthy practices need new patients. Figure out the right number for your practice.Set a monthly new patient goal that is aligned with your long-term growth goals.Know your actual patient growth by measuring new patient growth count.Create documented follow-up systems to recapture your lost patients.Align your team with your new patient goal so they can monitor it.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:30 New patient count and new patient growth, explained.3:37 How new patient count impacts the practice.7:04 What you can do to impact new patient count.7:51 New patient growth, explained.10:37 How new patient growth impacts the practice.11:27 What you can do to impact new patient growth.16:22 Final thoughts.Miranda Beeson, MS, BSDH Bio:Miranda Beeson has over 25 years of clinical dental hygiene, front office, practice administration, and...