Daily Dental Podcast

Your host, Dr. Addison Killeen reflects on the past year's reading list, highlighting "Thinking, Fast and Slow" by Daniel Kahneman, a Nobel laureate known for his work on cognitive biases. The book explores System 1 and System 2 thinking, emphasizing the pitfalls of relying too much on quick, automatic decisions. Dr. Killeen draws parallels between this cognitive framework and the challenges faced in dental hygiene checks. He cautions against getting trapped in System 1 thinking, urging professionals to slow down and consider the broader context of a situation for more comprehensive problem-solving. He encourages listeners to find the right balance between efficient decision-making and a thoughtful, thorough approach in their daily endeavors.

On today’s episode of the Daily Dental Podcast, we discuss the concept of "what gets measured gets managed." Dr. Addison Killeen cautions against measuring potentially worthless metrics, the importance of measuring progress for improvement is emphasized. Dr. Killeen highlights the potential pitfalls of measuring certain aspects, such as break times or pushing hard sell tactics, which may harm employees and business systems. He underscores the significance of aligning noble goals with appropriate measurement strategies to avoid backfiring. Dr. Killeen shares his specific key metrics, including Google reviews, new patients, and revenues, stressing the interconnectedness of these goals for business success. He encourages listeners to assess whether they are measuring and managing the right things and suggests the setting of Wildly Important Goals for the upcoming year.

Today we are talking about recent scheduling challenges in a growing medical practice. Dr. Addison Killeen shares that recently tensions arose between the front and back office due to a busy schedule and increased patient load. To simplify the situation, Dr. Killeen shared a quote from Pastor Craig Groeschel, emphasizing that growth leads to complexity and complexity kills growth. Rather than implementing complex rules, the speaker opts for a values-based approach, focusing on the core value of providing a fantastic guest experience. The team is encouraged to use their judgment and adhere to core values, particularly in situations where the patient experience might be compromised.

In this episode of the Daily Dental Podcast, we discuss the success of Sir David Brailsford, a performance coach for the British cycling team. Brailsford's unique strategy, known as the "aggregation of marginal gains," involved seeking a 1% improvement in every aspect related to cycling. This philosophy extended beyond the sport, encompassing meticulous details such as standardized hotel room setups and handwashing classes to enhance overall well-being. The British cycling team's remarkable achievements, including dominating the 2008 Olympics and setting numerous records, were attributed to these marginal gains. Dr. Addison Killeen encourages applying this approach in various areas of life, emphasizing the potential for significant accomplishments through the cumulative effect of small improvements.

Learn the importance of cultivating a growth mindset as the year ends and how it can lead to personal and professional growth. Embrace the belief that improvement is always possible with the help of the keyword 'yet'. Set goals related to clinical skills, leadership, or business for continuous self-improvement. Reflect on areas for personal growth as you approach the new year and consider your resolutions.

In this festive episode, Dr. Addison Killeen expresses his love for the Christmas movie "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation," highlighting the comedic chaos as Clark Griswold strives for the perfect family holiday. The story follows Clark's relentless pursuit of perfection, which takes a hilarious turn when his eccentric cousin Eddie unexpectedly arrives with his family. Dr. Killeen draws a parallel to dental office experiences and humorously likens the chaos to scenes from the iconic film. Despite the challenges, your host encourages embracing the memories, finding laughter, and enjoying the holiday with family and friends.

In this episode, Dr. Addison Killeen is joined by Phillip to delve into his Christmas lights map project and their collaboration on this year's contest. Phillip's journey began with creating a Google map of top Christmas displays in Lincoln, Nebraska, initially for his family. The program has since expanded, drawing in approximately 31,000 participants in his Facebook group. Together, Dr. Killeen and Phillip explore the community impact, diverse contest categories, and the positive holiday spirit generated by this engaging initiative.

In this insightful episode, your host Dr. Addison Killeen shares a key leadership insight as the Christmas weekend approaches. Dr. Killeen emphasizes that leaders may not always have the answers and encourages active listening and empowerment of team members who often possess valuable insights. He suggests cultivating good thinking patterns within the team through effective questioning, citing John Maxwell's book, "Good Leaders Ask Great Questions," as a recommended resource. Dr. Killeen advises asking open-ended questions and using the words of team members in inquiries for better understanding. He concludes by highlighting that leadership is not always about having answers but involves the important process of listening and inquiry.

Dr. Addison Killeen discusses strategies for hiring and managing millennials and Gen Z in dental practices. He highlights the priorities of these generations, emphasizing the importance of appropriate compensation, autonomy in work schedules, the pursuit of mastery in their skill set, alignment with a company's purpose and values, and leadership that genuinely cares for employees. Dr. Killeen suggests that while money is a factor, it's not the sole motivator and flexibility in work hours may be challenging but contributes to employee satisfaction. He underscores the significance of creating an environment where employees can excel in their skills, work for a purpose-driven organization, and experience supportive leadership that cares for their personal and professional growth. Additionally, he promotes the High-Performance Leaders Leadership Room on the Dental Success Network for those seeking further discussions on leadership development.

In the latest episode of the Daily Dental Podcast with Dr. Addison Killeen, the focus is on addressing the challenges arising from job shortages, particularly in the dental industry. Dr. Killeen discusses the recent decision by Nebraska's governor to end remote work for state employees, prompting discontent among those living in remote areas. Given the scarcity of talent, the private sector is eyeing opportunities to fill the gap. Dr. Killeen emphasizes key strategies for dental practices: prioritizing core values to create a positive workplace culture and hiring from outside the industry and providing training where possible. As January approaches, a prime time for job transitions, listeners are encouraged to prepare for potential recruitment opportunities.