Just a Couple of Dentists

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," Eric and Alex dive into the traits that contribute to success in the field. We kick off the conversation with a light-hearted exchange about Eric's recent haircut, which leads to a discussion about the hair care industry and the inspiring story of John Paul DeJoria, co-founder of Paul Mitchell. His journey from living in his car to building a billion-dollar brand serves as a backdrop for our exploration of the qualities that make certain dentists thrive. We welcome Brian Hanks, an expert in dental practice transitions, who shares his insights on the essential traits that successful dentists possess. Brian emphasizes the importance of having a robust personal network of dental professionals who know, like, and trust you. He encourages listeners to engage with their peers, whether through social media or in-person interactions, to build these valuable connections. As the conversation progresses, we discuss the significance of thinking critically and learning for oneself rather than simply accepting popular opinions in the dental community. Brian highlights the need for dentists to be skeptical in a healthy way, questioning the advice they receive and seeking out diverse perspectives. We also touch on the topic of comparison, noting that while it can be detrimental if used negatively, it can also serve as a powerful motivator for improvement. Brian shares a compelling story about a dentist who successfully negotiated a better loan rate by leveraging comparisons with other banks, illustrating how healthy competition can lead to better outcomes. Finally, we address the common fears associated with practice ownership, emphasizing that feeling nervous is a normal part of the process. Brian reassures listeners with data showing that dental practice loans are among the safest investments, encouraging them to embrace their fears and take action despite them. If  you still aren't sick of us and want more, make sure to subscribe to Alex's newsletter, Just Two Minutes, at coupleofdentists.com

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," Eric and Alex dive deep into the concept of mediocrity and how to overcome it in both personal and professional life. They kick off the conversation with a motivational mindset, encouraging listeners to seize the day and approach their work with focus and determination rather than just hard work. Eric shares a personal story about a time he experienced burnout and how Alex challenged him to reflect on his mindset. This led to the creation of a list of characteristics of a mediocre dentist, which Eric still keeps as a reminder on his phone. The four traits discussed include doing the minimum required, waiting until the last minute, not learning from mistakes, and making someone else do the work. This reflection sets the stage for a broader discussion on how to shift one's mindset from mediocrity to excellence. The episode features a guest appearance from Dr. Spencer Greer, who brings his insights on reframing thoughts and maximizing productivity in the dental field. The trio discusses the importance of having a positive mindset and how it can influence not only individual performance but also the overall atmosphere of a dental practice. They emphasize the significance of leading by example and fostering a "yes" mindset within the team, which can create a more productive and enjoyable work environment. Throughout the episode, they touch on various strategies for setting goals, maintaining focus, and avoiding distractions, such as turning off notifications during work hours. Spencer shares his personal journey from being an introverted teenager to a successful dentist, highlighting the importance of perseverance and self-reflection in achieving success. The conversation also addresses the pitfalls of perfection paralysis, where individuals become so fixated on achieving perfection that they fail to take action. Eric and Spencer encourage listeners to set specific, measurable goals rather than vague aspirations, allowing for tangible progress and accountability. As the episode wraps up, the hosts reflect on the importance of mindset in achieving success and the value of sharing experiences and insights with others. They remind listeners that everyone has something valuable to contribute, regardless of their level of expertise, and that making a positive impact on others can be incredibly rewarding. Join us for this engaging and thought-provoking episode as we explore how to break free from mediocrity and strive for excellence in our dental practices and beyond!

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," we dive deep into the complexities of organized dentistry and the ongoing challenges faced by dental professionals in navigating the insurance landscape. Dr. Erik Zundo, who has been practicing in Indiana since 2013, brings a wealth of knowledge about organized dentistry, a topic that many younger dentists seem to overlook. We discuss the American Dental Association (ADA) and its local chapters, reflecting on how membership has waned in popularity compared to previous generations. A significant portion of our conversation centers around the contentious relationship between dentists and insurance companies. We delve into the ongoing lawsuit involving the California Dental Association (CDA) and Delta Dental, examining the implications of antitrust issues and the ADA's role in advocating for fair practices. Dr. Zundo shares insights into how insurance companies often manipulate reimbursement processes, creating administrative burdens for dental practices. As we navigate through the episode, we address the confusion surrounding ADA membership and the perceived lack of transparency regarding what dues contribute to. We highlight the need for clearer communication from the ADA about its initiatives and how they benefit practicing dentists. The discussion also touches on the ADA's investments in technology companies, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest and the organization's direction. Throughout the episode, we emphasize the importance of legislative advocacy at the state level, encouraging dentists to engage with their local dental associations to effect change. We also explore the challenges of credentialing and insurance verification, which often place undue stress on dental practices and their staff. In a thought-provoking segment, we consider what changes we would implement if given the opportunity to reform the dental insurance system. Dr. Zundo proposes practical solutions to streamline processes and improve patient access to care, while also addressing the need for a more equitable reimbursement structure. Join us for this engaging and informative episode as we unpack the intricacies of organized dentistry, the impact of insurance companies on our practices, and the collective responsibility we share in advocating for a better future in dental care.

In this special bonus episode, we’re guests on the Stress-Free Dentist Show podcast with Dr. Eric Block, sharing the wild ride that led us into dentistry and the even wilder one that followed. From literal sewage leaking through the floor five weeks into Alex’s startup, to Eric getting hit with a cybersecurity attack just four months into his, to navigating COVID while running two practices—we don’t sugarcoat anything. We talk about failing partnerships, surviving the chaos, and the kind of perseverance it takes to push through when shit hit the fan (literally). Plus, Alex calls out the whole “work-life balance” myth and drops her take on how it actually works in real life. Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform!

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," hosts Eric and Alex dive into the evolving landscape of dental technology and the implications of outsourcing within the field. The episode kicks off with a light-hearted discussion about a recent Facebook ad featuring a robot dentist, prompting a broader conversation about the future of dental procedures and the potential for automation in dentistry. As the hosts reflect on their experiences in the dental industry, they highlight the growing trend of outsourcing tasks to improve efficiency and productivity. They discuss how this trend is particularly relevant in the context of staffing challenges and the need for dentists to focus on their core competencies while leveraging technology and external resources. To further explore this topic, the hosts welcome Nick Greenfield, co-founder of CandidPro, a company specializing in clear aligners. Nick shares insights into how CandidPro is designed to empower general dentists to provide orthodontic care more confidently. He explains that many general dentists lack the training and experience to handle orthodontic cases effectively, which is where CandidPro steps in, offering support from licensed orthodontists to ensure high-quality outcomes. Throughout the conversation, Nick emphasizes the importance of proper diagnostics and the need for orthodontic oversight in treatment planning. He discusses the challenges faced by general dentists in diagnosing malocclusion and the potential pitfalls of direct-to-consumer orthodontic solutions that may overlook critical dental health issues. As the discussion unfolds, Eric and Alex reflect on their own experiences with orthodontics and the barriers they faced in providing such care. They share anecdotes from dental school and their early practices, highlighting the importance of mentorship and ongoing education in building confidence in orthodontic treatment. In the latter part of the episode, the hosts and Nick speculate on the future of dental treatments that could be outsourced or automated, such as robotic surgery and hygiene procedures. They consider the potential for at-home sleep apnea testing kits and other innovations that could further enhance patient care while allowing dentists to focus on their strengths. Overall, this episode provides a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of technology, outsourcing, and patient care in dentistry, encouraging listeners to consider how they can adapt to the changing landscape of the profession.

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," Eric and Alex welcome Dr. Cory Ball, a recent dental practice owner who shares his journey of purchasing a practice a few months ago. The conversation dives deep into the challenges and realities of practice ownership. Cory recounts his initial excitement about buying a practice that was only open two days a week, highlighting the potential he saw for growth. However, he quickly learned that the transition was not as smooth as he had hoped. The episode explores the pitfalls of practice ownership, including the importance of understanding the existing systems and staff before making significant changes. Cory candidly discusses the red flags he encountered, such as the lack of organization at the front desk and the challenges of managing insurance claims. Throughout the episode, we touch on the importance of meeting staff before finalizing a purchase, as well as the necessity of rebranding when taking over a practice with a less-than-stellar reputation.  As the conversation unfolds, Cory reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of ownership, from the initial excitement to the daily challenges of running a practice. He discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on the small victories, even amidst the chaos of ownership. Make sure to like and subscribe to the podcast and check out Alex's weekly newsletter JUST TWO MINUTES at www.coupleofdentists.com!

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," we dive into a serious and often overlooked issue in the dental industry: embezzlement. Alex and I share a personal experience from one of our practices, where we discovered a case of embezzlement involving a former employee. The episode begins with a discussion about the importance of dentists taking control of their financial reports and not relying solely on staff to filter information. We introduce our guest, David Harris, an expert in dental embezzlement and owner of Prosperident, who provides valuable insights into the common tactics used by thieves in dental practices. David explains that embezzlement often occurs gradually, likening it to a dripping tap rather than a broken pipe. He shares alarming statistics, revealing that the average embezzlement case can exceed $100,000, and that many thieves employ multiple methods to steal funds. As we unpack our specific case, we discuss the red flags that were missed, including suspicious DoorDash transactions that were traced back to the employee's home. David emphasizes the importance of having robust financial controls in place, such as regular reconciliations between practice management software and bank statements. He highlights the dangers of relying on subjective documents and encourages dentists to print their own reports to ensure accuracy. Throughout the episode, we explore the psychological aspects of embezzlement, noting that successful thieves often present themselves as friendly and indispensable team members. David provides practical advice on how to safeguard practices against theft, including the importance of limiting administrative access in practice management software and regularly changing passwords. In a lighter moment, Alex shares a personal story about a scam she fell victim to, which serves as a reminder of the various ways professionals can be targeted. David draws parallels between this experience and the manipulation tactics used by embezzlers, highlighting the need for vigilance in both personal and professional finances. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and insights that every dentist should consider to protect their practice from financial fraud. Whether you're a solo practitioner or part of a larger DSO, the lessons shared here are crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of your dental practice.

In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the art of storytelling and its significance in the field of dentistry. Inspired by a recent episode of "My First Million," I reflect on how storytelling can transform the way we communicate with patients. Often, dental professionals focus heavily on technical jargon, explaining procedures like crowns and root canals without considering the emotional journey of the patient. I share my belief that we can enhance patient engagement and understanding by weaving narratives into our communications. To explore this concept further, I invite my longtime friend Mack Rawden, who has extensive experience in the entertainment industry as the editor-in-chief of CinemaBlend. Mack has a natural talent for storytelling and has seen firsthand how effective narratives can captivate audiences. We discuss how storytelling can be applied in various contexts, including dental practices, to better connect with patients. Mack emphasizes the importance of understanding the audience's intent when crafting content. He explains that different patients have varying levels of interest and knowledge, and it's crucial to cater to all of them. We explore how to structure dental websites to include engaging headlines, clear information, and emotional narratives that resonate with potential patients. Mack shares insights on how to effectively use testimonials and visual elements to enhance the storytelling experience. Throughout our conversation, we touch on the significance of first impressions, particularly when patients visit a dental website for the first time. We discuss the importance of professionalism in design and the need for a human touch to make patients feel comfortable. Mack shares his thoughts on the role of reviews in building trust and how to respond to negative feedback in a way that maintains professionalism. As we wrap up the episode, we reflect on the challenges of managing patient expectations and the importance of conveying the benefits of dental procedures rather than just the technical details. We conclude that by embracing storytelling, dental professionals can create a more engaging and relatable experience for their patients, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both parties. Join us for this insightful discussion that not only highlights the power of storytelling but also provides practical tips for enhancing patient communication in the dental field.

In this episode of our podcast, we dive into the evolving landscape of dentistry and the motivations behind the increasing trend of young dentists pursuing side gigs and alternative careers outside of clinical practice. We kick off the conversation by reflecting on our own experiences since graduating in 2013. Both Alex and I share our feelings of burnout and a waning passion for traditional clinical dentistry, which leads us to question why so many of our peers are exploring side hustles. We reminisce about the early days of our careers, where podcasts like Dental Hacks and Thriving Dentist provided us with both clinical insights and a sense of camaraderie during our long commutes. Our guest, Alan Mead, a seasoned podcaster, joins us to provide his perspective on the current state of dental podcasting and the rise of side gigs among younger dentists. Alan shares his journey in the podcasting world, highlighting how the landscape has changed since he first entered it, with a significant increase in the number of dental podcasts available today. We discuss the appeal of side hustles, including the allure of social media influencing and the challenges that come with it. Alan points out that while clinical dentistry offers a stable and lucrative career, many younger dentists are drawn to the flexibility and creativity that side gigs provide. As the conversation progresses, we engage in a fun segment where we play a "Kiss, Marry, Kill" game with various potential side gigs. Each of us shares our preferences and reasoning, leading to some humorous and insightful discussions about the realities of these roles. It was an honor to bring on one of the "OG's" of dental podcasting and hope to have him on future episodes!

In this episode of our podcast, we welcome back an old friend and fellow Canadian, Dr. Dante Carlascio, who was not only our vice president in dental school but also a roommate of Eric's for a year. We kick off the conversation by reminiscing about our time in dental school, particularly the unique tradition Dante started called the "Cuspid Crawl." Dante shares some hilarious anecdotes from our anatomy lab, including a memorable incident where his hair caught fire due to the overhead lights. We then transition into discussing Dante's career path after graduation, where he returned to his hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. He reflects on his journey from being an associate in a dental practice to eventually buying his own practice, highlighting the challenges and rewards of ownership. The conversation shifts to the differences between American and Canadian dentistry, particularly in how periodontal treatments are coded and billed. Dante explains that in Canada, scaling is time-based, with specific units defined by 15-minute increments, contrasting sharply with the American system that categorizes treatments based on the number of teeth involved. We also delve into the structure of dental practices in Canada, discussing the role of restorative hygienists, who have additional training to perform certain procedures typically done by dentists in the U.S. This leads to a discussion about pay structures for hygienists and the current labor market challenges both countries are facing. As we wrap up, we have some fun with a light-hearted segment on pronunciation differences between American and Canadian English. Overall, this episode is a blend of nostalgia, professional insights, and cultural differences, making for an engaging and informative listen for anyone interested in the world of dentistry.