The Best Practices Show with Kirk Behrendt

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 collections gap.14:11 The overhead gap.20:09 The cash flow gap.24:54 Final takeaways.26:19 ACT’s BPA.Christina Byrne, BS, RDH Bio:Christina Byrne has been involved in dentistry since 1985. Over the years, she has held many positions on the dental team, including dental assistant, business office, and dental hygienist. Christina’s extensive knowledge of the front office and clinical procedures is a great asset, and she loves to impart her knowledge to guide dental teams do the best they can to achieve a Better Practice, Better Life! 

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 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.

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: https://www.youtube.com/@actdental/videosTry Limitless AI recorder: https://www.limitless.aiMain Takeaways:Give yourself grace. Don't fall into the trap of looking at what you didn't do “ideally”.What you may not consider “ideal dentistry” may be just as great for your patients.Stop comparing yourself to others. Everyone is at a different point in their journey.Systems make your dentistry excellent. Don't do complex cases without them.Don't skip over planning. All of your hard work is in the planning process.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:46 It’s not so black-and-white.4:56 “Ideal” isn't the only path.8:36 The patient is the difficult part of dentistry.11:38 Give yourself grace.17:16 The importance of systems.23:53 How an AI recorder will change your life.26:15 Final thoughts, about CASE, and how to get in touch.Dr. Charlie Ward Bio:After graduating from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2004, Dr. Charlie Ward went straight into the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He earned his DDS degree in 2008, and since then he has completed the Essentials courses and many others at the esteemed Pankey Institute, where he now serves as visiting faculty. He is currently a member of the Maryland State Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.When Dr. Ward isn’t spending time with Dr. Melody Ward and their two young boys, Cyrus and Lucas, he can often be found golfing or fishing. He also enjoys playing the guitar. While in dental school, he was actually in an all-dentist band called Incisal Edge! He even has his own guitar collection and has turned his basement into a music room.Dr. Christopher Mazzola Bio:Dr. Christopher Mazzola was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He attended the University of Michigan for his undergraduate studies where he graduated with honors with a Chemical Engineering Degree. During his undergraduate studies, he conducted research with dental school faculty on materials to aid in patients’ healing after dental surgery. He then continued his education at Michigan where he completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree. While in dental school, he was awarded the University of Michigan American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Award for his research in the clinical application of CAD/CAM technology in dentistry.Prior to joining Traverse Dental Associates, Dr. Mazzola owned a practice in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where he was named one of the area’s 2013 TopDentists™. He continued with education focusing on communication and technology in private practice. He has also served as an instructor and mentor for new graduates focusing on patient interactions and CEREC CAD/CAM Technology.In his spare time, Dr. Mazzola enjoys spending time with his wife, Christina, his children, Baylor and Eliana, and his three dogs, Isabelle, Lola, and Aspen. He tries to stay active through competitive CrossFit, golfing, running, and skiing. He is looking forward to watching his family grow in the amazing community that is Traverse City!

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: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-gap-and-the-gain-the-high-achievers-guide-to-happiness-confidence-and-success-dan-sullivan/13b3af53fc11bb37?ean=9781401964368&next=t&next=tMain Takeaways:No one comes out of the womb being good at dentistry. It requires hard work.Stop “living in the gap”. If you're 95% to your goal, don't focus on the 5%.Different friend groups are important but find your tribe of dentists.Don't let negative self-talk and negative thoughts define you.One bad day at the office doesn't make you a bad dentist.Perfection is poison. It’s impossible, so don't chase it.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:53 Dr. Rachel Ward’s background.4:03 Impostor syndrome and feeling worthy.10:49 The origin of their group chat.15:57 Social media pressure for dentists.23:16 Don't fall into the comparison trap.29:54 Going to Pankey will change your life.36:06 Final thoughts.Dr. Charlie Ward Bio:After graduating from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2004, Dr. Charlie Ward went straight into the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He earned his DDS degree in 2008, and since then he has completed the Essentials courses and many others at the esteemed Pankey Institute, where he now serves as visiting faculty. He is currently a member of the Maryland State Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.When Dr. Ward isn’t spending time with Dr. Melody Ward and their two young boys, Cyrus and Lucas, he can often be found golfing or fishing. He also enjoys playing the guitar. While in dental school, he was actually in an all-dentist band called Incisal Edge! He even has his own guitar collection and has turned his basement into a music room.Dr. Rachel Ward Bio:Dr. Rachel Ward received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. She then continued her education, receiving a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She began her private practice career in St. Louis, Missouri, followed by time in San Antonio, Texas, and Omaha, Nebraska, due to her husband’s career in the United Staes Air Force. After 10 years in the service, her husband separated from the Air Force and their family decided to make Omaha their home.In 2019, Dr. Ward became a Fellow with the Academy of General Dentistry and subsequently received the distinction of Master with the Academy of General Dentistry in 2022 by accumulating over 1,100 hours of continuing education. Less than 2% of dentists have earned this distinction. She stays active with the Academy as a board member for the Nebraska AGD.In addition to the AGD, Dr. Ward is a member of the American Dental Association, American Equilibration Society, American Association of Women Dentists, and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. She also spends time as a Faculty Assistant at the prestigious Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, Florida. She also serves as an advisor to The Institute.Dr. Ward and her husband, Daniel Chartrand, have five children together and stay busy transporting kids to and from activities. When she finds some free time, she enjoys running, lifting, biking, and swimming. 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: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-gap-and-the-gain-the-high-achievers-guide-to-happiness-confidence-and-success-dan-sullivan/13b3af53fc11bb37?ean=9781401964368&next=t&next=tMain Takeaways:No one comes out of the womb being good at dentistry. It requires hard work.Stop “living in the gap”. If you're 95% to your goal, don't focus on the 5%.Different friend groups are important but find your tribe of dentists.Don't let negative self-talk and negative thoughts define you.One bad day at the office doesn't make you a bad dentist.Perfection is poison. It’s impossible, so don't chase it.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:53 Dr. Rachel Ward’s background.4:03 Impostor syndrome and feeling worthy.10:49 The origin of their group chat.15:57 Social media pressure for dentists.23:16 Don't fall into the comparison trap.29:54 Going to Pankey will change your life.36:06 Final thoughts.Dr. Charlie Ward Bio:After graduating from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2004, Dr. Charlie Ward went straight into the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. He earned his DDS degree in 2008, and since then he has completed the Essentials courses and many others at the esteemed Pankey Institute, where he now serves as visiting faculty. He is currently a member of the Maryland State Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry.When Dr. Ward isn’t spending time with Dr. Melody Ward and their two young boys, Cyrus and Lucas, he can often be found golfing or fishing. He also enjoys playing the guitar. While in dental school, he was actually in an all-dentist band called Incisal Edge! He even has his own guitar collection and has turned his basement into a music room.Dr. Rachel Ward Bio:Dr. Rachel Ward received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri. She then continued her education, receiving a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She began her private practice career in St. Louis, Missouri, followed by time in San Antonio, Texas, and Omaha, Nebraska, due to her husband’s career in the United Staes Air Force. After 10 years in the service, her husband separated from the Air Force and their family decided to make Omaha their home.In 2019, Dr. Ward became a Fellow with the Academy of General Dentistry and subsequently received the distinction of Master with the Academy of General Dentistry in 2022 by accumulating over 1,100 hours of continuing education. Less than 2% of dentists have earned this distinction. She stays active with the Academy as a board member for the Nebraska AGD.In addition to the AGD, Dr. Ward is a member of the American Dental Association, American Equilibration Society, American Association of Women Dentists, and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. She also spends time as a Faculty Assistant at the prestigious Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, Florida. She also serves as an advisor to The Institute.Dr. Ward and her husband, Daniel Chartrand, have five children together and stay busy transporting kids to and from activities. When she finds some free time, she enjoys running, lifting, biking, and swimming. 

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 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. 

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: 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#emailMain Takeaways:Identify your core customers, core competencies, and weaknesses to differentiate.Understand your effort gap, collections gap, overhead gap, and cash flow gap.Analyze your data to identify inefficiencies and optimize your practice.Develop your differentiation strategy over time and be consistent.Data shows that dentists thrive in private practice.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.2:22 ACT’s BPA, TTT, and Pro Coaching.5:51 Why this is an important topic.17:06 Differentiation: Identify your core customers.18:05 Differentiation: Identify your core competencies.23:31 Differentiation: Identify your weaknesses.26:56 Differentiation: Build your strategy.27:23 Operational gaps: Effort gap.29:27 Operational gaps: Collections gap.37:08 Operational gaps: Overhead gap.38:41 Operational gaps: Cash flow gap.42:30 Data drives impact.48:39 Final takeaways.53:08 More about ACT’s TTT Study Club.55:13 Last 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 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.

Heather Crockett, a practice coach with ACT, shares her expertise in guiding dental practices toward growth. She introduces a four-question year-end review framework to help practice owners reflect on their alignment, smart metrics, and culture. Heather emphasizes the importance of evaluating communication and trust within the team while encouraging reflection on key metrics beyond just production. The conversation also highlights how celebrating wins can reduce overwhelm and enhance practice performance, setting a solid foundation for the upcoming year.

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 values: Results Driven.37:07 Core values: Always Be Growing.41:53 Core values: All-In Attitude.50:33 Your people are the secret sauce.51:35 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 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. 

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: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-mind-gut-connection-how-the-hidden-conversation-within-our-bodies-impacts-our-mood-our-choices-and-our-overall-health-emeran-mayer/d71c6bafe6b31318?ean=9780062376589&next=tRead Lifespan by David A. Sinclair, PhD: https://bookshop.org/p/books/lifespan-why-we-age-and-why-we-don-t-have-to-matthew-d-laplante/31d9af73d9dfc2d4?ean=9781501191978&next=tMain Takeaways:Consistency is key to longevity. Slow and steady wins the race.Become a master of sleep. Good sleep increases longevity.Stress impacts life expectancy. Learn how to manage it.Supplements can be important, but more isn't better.Food is fuel. Tone down junk food consumption.Sitting is a killer. Move as often as possible.Stay curious and keep your mind active.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.1:50 Longevity, lifespan, and health span, explained.3:24 Why some countries have a longer lifespan.5:36 Why life expectancy has decreased.10:11 Is there a magic bullet for longevity?13:54 The importance of consistency.21:54 Become a sleep master.25:34 Manage your stress.28:34 More isn't better with supplements.32:16 Final thoughts.35:27 More about Dr. Odiatu and how to get in touch.Dr. Uche Odiatu Bio:Dr. 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 (National Strength & Conditioning Association) NSCA, and the Canadian Association of Fitness Professionals (canfitpro). He is the co-author of The Miracle of Health (c) 2009 John Wiley (hardcover) & (c) 2015 Harper Collins, 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 countries over the last 15 years.

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: https://join.actdental.com/users/sign_in?post_login_redirect=https%3A%2F%2Fjoin.actdental.com%2Fc%2Fpractice-coaching-tools%2Fsample-financial-arrangement-form#emailMain Takeaways:A balance past 31 days is overdue. Address it ASAP!Be proactive. The older the balance, it’s harder to collect.Have a strong financial policy so patients know what to expect.You can't fix what you don't measure. Be sure to know your numbers.Document a system and create a plan. Otherwise, you're being reactive.Work the plan you created. If you don't implement them, they're sure to fail.Snippets:0:00 Introduction.3:32 Overdue accounts, explained.5:22 Have a strong financial policy.9:19 Know your numbers.14:57 Document a system and create a plan.17:45 Work the plan.24:00 Final takeaways.Robyn Theisen Bio:Robyn Theisen brings an entire life and legacy of dental experience to the team and every team with which she works as the daughter and sister of dentists. With almost 20 years of experience in dentistry, her roles ranged from practice management to operations at Patterson Dental to coaching teams. Robyn’s passion is empowering teams to realize that they can dramatically impact the lives of the people they serve by implementing skills and systems to remove barriers to life-changing dental treatment. She has done it for decades and does it every day with dental teams.Outside of coaching, she enjoys time with her husband, Rob, and two daughters, Emerson and Ruby. She loves traveling, music, fitness, and cheering on the Michigan State Spartans.