Daily Dental Podcast

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on the teachers, mentors, and leaders who shape us—and why the real way to honor them is by paying it forward. He talks about how teaching and mentoring don’t just help others grow, but actually sharpen your own skills, clarity, and leadership. Sharing what you’ve learned keeps the cycle going—and makes you better in the process.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen invites you to imagine a quick but powerful conversation with your 80-year-old self. What would they beg you to stop postponing? From practice decisions to personal health and family time, this episode is a gentle nudge to stop waiting for the “perfect” moment and take a small step forward now. A reminder that progress beats perfection—and future you is counting on what you do today.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen reflects on a favorite Muhammad Ali quote: “It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it’s the pebble in your shoe,” and why it matters so much in dentistry, leadership, and life. Big goals and “mountains” get our attention, but it’s often the small, nagging issues we tolerate that quietly wear us down. Dr. Killeen talks about identifying those pebbles—habits, mindsets, or situations that drain energy—and why addressing them can make everything else feel lighter. A simple reminder that progress often starts with fixing the small stuff first.

In this episode, Dr. Killeen talks about a counterintuitive leadership idea: agreeing too quickly can actually shut down great conversations. Using a classic psychology study as a backdrop, he explains how pressure to agree can keep teams from sharing what they really think. In a dental practice, that often shows up as quiet meetings, polite nodding, and missed opportunities. Dr. Killeen shares a simple way to create space for better ideas, more honest input, and stronger team conversations—by slowing down agreement and inviting real thinking to the table.

Dr. Killeen shares transformative tips for personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the importance of reserving your highest-energy hours for critical tasks. Focusing on small, repeatable wins leads to consistent progress, while accepting imperfection allows for steady improvement. By prioritizing just a few goals, you can do less but achieve better results. The emphasis is on sustainable habits that foster meaningful change over time—perfect for anyone looking to shape a successful future.

On today’s episode, Dr. Killeen sits down with his friend Dr. Nick Cudney, an oral surgeon from the Chicago area. They have a relaxed, wide-ranging conversation about oral surgery, what great communication between general dentists and surgeons really looks like, and how collaboration improves patient care. Dr. Cudney also shares his experience running a study club. Why he started it, how it works, and what he hopes it provides for other dentists. They wrap up by talking technology in oral surgery and what advancements are most exciting as the specialty continues to evolve.Nick Cudney: cudney@midwestomspalos.com

In this episode, Dr. Killeen digs into core values — not the kind that live on a poster in the break room, but the kind your team and patients experience every single day. Inspired by a blunt (and pretty funny) Reddit post, he talks about why values only matter when they cost you something, how people can spot “fake values” instantly, and why real values are always shown through behavior. This is a reminder that in dentistry — and in life — values aren’t what you say… they’re what you consistently do, especially when things get hard.

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen talks about why 1-on-1 conversations are one of the most underrated leadership tools in a dental practice. With a simple mindset shift—seeing thoughtful questions as an act of generosity—these quick check-ins can build trust, strengthen relationships, and help your team feel truly seen and heard. No fixing, no rushing—just real listening, and the impact it can have on your culture and leadership.

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen breaks down a simple but powerful idea: willpower alone isn’t enough — your environment matters more than you think. After a long day in the clinic, motivation fades, but smart setup can carry you through. This episode dives into how small changes the night before — packing lunch, setting out workout clothes, clearing friction — can make healthier, more productive days feel almost automatic. Less self-criticism, fewer barriers, and a smoother path forward.

In today’s episode, Dr. Killeen takes a fresh look at our relationship with our phones as we continue building better habits for the year. What if we’re not truly “addicted” — but instead trying to escape noise, stress, and constant stimulation? From grayscale screens to charging phones in another room, this conversation explores attention, the modern attention economy, and how small boundaries can help us reclaim a little peace. A thoughtful, low-pressure reminder that your phone should work for you — not the other way around.