The Dentalpreneur Podcast w/ Dr. Mark Costes

On today's episode, we have the pleasure of delving into the world of dentistry with a twist. We're joined by Dr. Jill Wade, a dentist who not only excels in her profession but also views it through a unique lens, integrating a deep understanding of overall health with dental care. Dr. Jill Wade is not your average dentist. She stands out with her innovative approach, centering her practices around prevention, always aiming to lead and push the boundaries of conventional dentistry. At the heart of her mission is an insatiable passion for educating others. She firmly believes, and rightly so, that optimal oral health plays an indispensable role in our overall health and wellness. It's not just about having a beautiful smile; it's about understanding what that smile tells us about our body's health. This perspective has led to the inception of the "Smile with Heart" program. Pioneering in its approach, this program stands as the first to co-manage patients by collaborating with other health professionals, employing diagnostics and blood work. Through this holistic view, Dr. Wade and her team aim to uncover the often subtle, yet crucial connections between the mouth and overall health. By identifying these nuances, they can pinpoint the root causes of inflammation, providing a fuller picture of a patient's health. Our conversation starts by exploring Dr. Wade's background, leading us through the pivotal moments and experiences that shaped her current practice. We delve into the influences and inspirations that directed Jill towards this unique path. Who were the key players, and what moments stoked her interest in the oral-systemic connection? It's a fascinating journey that highlights the confluence of personal experiences and professional insights. From understanding the origin, we transition into discussing how Dr. Wade integrated this philosophy into her practice. Implementing change is never easy, so how did she ensure that her team was on board? And once the team was aligned, how did she get her associates to not only understand but also passionately advocate for this approach? Navigating through the conversation, we uncover the nuts and bolts of Dr. Wade's practices. She delves into the specifics of the protocols they follow, the testing they utilize, and how they go about educating their patients. But the journey doesn't end with diagnosis. Once the lab results and radiologist reports are in, what's next? Dr. Wade provides a glimpse into the diverse treatment protocols employed in her office, tailoring each approach to the diagnosis at hand. This episode offers an enlightening perspective on dentistry, breaking the boundaries of what we traditionally expect. Dr. Jill Wade exemplifies how the world of dental care is evolving, urging us to see our oral health as a vital component of our overall well-being. To learn more about Dr. Jill Wade's groundbreaking work or to schedule a consultation, visit her at www.stonebriarsmiledesign.com. EPISODE RESOURCES www.stonebriarsmiledesign.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Rania Saleh, a trailblazing entrepreneur in the field of dentistry and the co-founder of Oryx Dental, a prominent cloud-based dental management software company. Dr. Saleh's remarkable journey from a Doctorate in Dental Surgery in 2003 to the forefront of dental software innovation showcases her unwavering dedication and fusion of creativity and science. Dr. Rania Saleh's story is one of transformation and innovation. With a foundation in dental education and practice, she furthered her expertise through advanced training at McGill University and the prestigious Kois Institute. However, her journey began with aspirations of becoming an architect. Hailing from war-torn Lebanon, she navigated a path that led her from architectural dreams to becoming a successful dentist and ultimately to the realm of software development. Our conversation with Dr. Saleh centers around her groundbreaking venture, Oryx Dental. She takes us through the intriguing origins of Oryx Dental and how it evolved into a leading cloud-based dental management software company. We delve into the significance of surveys and case acceptance in the realm of dentistry, discussing how they contribute to enhancing patient care and overall practice efficiency. One of the highlights of our conversation is Dr. Saleh's exploration of what sets Oryx Dental apart. With an emphasis on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI), Oryx Dental introduces innovation that streamlines processes, elevates patient experiences, and empowers dental practices to thrive in a technologically advanced landscape. Switching practice management software is a significant decision for any dental practice, and Dr. Saleh provides insights into the training and transition process for dental practice teams considering Oryx Dental. She sheds light on the seamless integration and the comprehensive support provided to ensure a smooth transition and optimized utilization of the software's capabilities. Ever wondered what a day in the life of a software CEO looks like? Dr. Saleh provides a fascinating glimpse into the responsibilities and dynamics of her role, offering a perspective that bridges the world of dentistry and cutting-edge technology. Our conversation culminates with a deep dive into the customer experience with Oryx Dental. Dr. Saleh shares how patient care remains at the core of Oryx Dental's mission, and the software's impact on patient satisfaction and practice success. To learn more about Oryx Dental and the revolutionary contributions it brings to the dental industry, visit oryxdentalsoftware.com. EPISODE RESOURCES oryxdentalsoftware.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with Jaime Staley, a Partner, virtual CFO, and CPA with a focus on enhancing growth and profitability for service-based business owners. Jaime's extensive experience and expertise make her an invaluable resource for gaining insights into business tips and growth strategies. She joins us to share her well-rounded sustainable approach that can significantly improve the lives of business owners. Throughout the episode, you'll discover how accounting impacts businesses and how leveraging numbers can drive revenue and enhance business value. Jaime Staley's journey is a testament to her dedication and passion for helping businesses thrive. As a vCFO, CPA, and partner in a growing business, Jaime has garnered profound insights into the intricacies of financial management. Her more than a decade of experience in working with dental practice owners has equipped her with a unique perspective on aligning accounting practices with business growth. During our conversation, we dive into the world of finance and accounting, starting with how Jaime's own career journey led her to establish her firm. Demystifying the role of a CFO, Jaime sheds light on how a CFO's responsibilities differ in the accounting realm. We explore the challenges businesses face when they aspire to scale beyond their current capabilities. Jaime shares her expertise on steering these conversations to ensure that growth is not only ambitious but also aligned with the business's readiness. One of Jaime's core passions lies in helping dentists comprehend the intricacies of finances and accounting. Her insights into the inner workings of dental practices empower dentists to make informed decisions and gain better control over their practices' financial aspects. As we progress through the conversation, we touch upon strategies for effectively reducing tax liability and minimizing tax amounts legally. Jaime's insights into tax planning offer valuable guidance for businesses seeking to optimize their financial health. Hiring a professional CPA can be a game-changer for businesses, and Jaime provides practical advice on what to look for when considering this crucial step. We also delve into the significance of creating a well-defined plan for debt repayment, discussing the merits of aggressive versus gradual debt reduction. Today's episode is brimming with actionable insights and expert guidance from Jaime Staley. Her expertise, particularly in the realm of dental practices, offers a fresh perspective on accounting and financial management. So, if you're seeking to gain a better understanding of how finance impacts your business and how you can strategically leverage numbers to enhance growth, this episode is a must-listen. To connect with Jaime and tap into her wealth of knowledge, make sure to reach out to her at pjscpas.com. EPISODE RESOURCES https://pjscpas.com/dental-cpa https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we sit down with Chad Widensky, the dynamic Chief Revenue Officer at Provide. Chad's journey began as a Regional Director of Practice Finance for the Northeast in March 2019, and after demonstrating his unparalleled expertise in practice finance, spanning over 13 years, he was elevated to his current pivotal role in 2022. A proud Boston University graduate with a BS in Political Science and Philosophy, Chad now leads with a focus on driving loan volume and revenue growth across multiple teams. Our conversation dives deep into the nuances of the FinTech industry. Chad draws comparisons between traditional banking institutions and innovative FinTech companies like Provide. What sets them apart? It's not just the software; it's the entire experience, devoid of layers of bureaucracy. Chad recalls his extensive decade-long experience with larger institutions and how it helped him shape and refine the consultative approach he brings to Provide. One of the stand-out moments from the discussion is the emphasis on technology and people. As Chad mentions, technology can streamline processes, but it's the human touch that truly transforms a client's experience. The recent shift in Provide's mission statement—from emphasizing technology first to highlighting the importance of great people backed by innovative technology—is a testament to that belief. Chad sheds light on the internal dynamics at Provide, emphasizing real-time communication tools like Slack and the collaborative ethos it brings, bridging the gap between sales teams and underwriters. He also proudly shares the company's meteoric rise as the second-largest lender in the dental lending space. The conversation then pivots to Chad's unique role as Chief Revenue Officer—a title that might be new to many. Beyond driving revenue, Chad's role encompasses strategy, system development, product delivery, and ensuring that clients, especially healthcare professionals, have a seamless and positive experience with Provide. As the episode wraps up, we get a snapshot of how Provide's reach is expanding across the United States with a strong team of dedicated representatives, and a hint at an intriguing SBA product that's on the horizon. If you've ever been curious about the world of FinTech, or are a professional in the healthcare domain seeking a financial partner that prioritizes both technology and personal touch, this episode is a must-listen. Dive in, get inspired, and discover the future of practice finance with Provide and Chad Widensky! EPISODE RESOURCES www.getprovide.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Mark and Sydney Robinson delve into the common themes and most engaging posts within the Dental Success Network (DSN) community. They offer their insights and advice on various challenges faced by dental practice owners and managers. Motivating Team to Schedule for Production Goals Mark and Sydney discuss a post about motivating the front office to consistently schedule to production goals. They explore the concept of fear among staff due to being short-staffed and the importance of addressing it. Mark emphasizes the need for setting clear goals, benchmarks, and a robust process for scheduling. Sydney adds insights about efficient communication and adapting scheduling based on available staff. Rewarding Loyalty and Key Players Mark and Sydney tackle the question of how to reward loyalty and recognize key team members without unsustainable raises. They emphasize the importance of performance-based raises and bonuses over automatic, time-based raises. Sydney suggests using a tiered model and understanding team members' motivations beyond just monetary rewards. Mark highlights the significance of culture, growth opportunities, and continual education in retaining team members. Conclusion: Mark and Sydney wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to explore the resources available within the Dental Success Network and highlighting the group's supportive and positive environment. This episode provides valuable insights for dental practice owners and managers, addressing common challenges they face in team motivation, retention, and scheduling for production goals. Mark and Sydney's thoughtful advice and real-world examples make this a must-listen for anyone in the dental industry looking to enhance their practice's success. EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we are joined by a remarkable entrepreneur who has reshaped the dental landscape with her unwavering dedication to helping dental practices thrive in the realm of PPO negotiations. Shelley DeGroff, the founder and CEO of PPO Advisors, has an inspiring journey that stems from her experience in a dental office, and she recognized a pressing need for fair deals from PPOs. Shelley's story is one of unexpected entrepreneurship. As an office manager for a private dental practice, she dived into the intricate world of PPO contracts, gaining an in-depth understanding of the dynamics that can significantly impact practice revenues. When she successfully negotiated better terms for her own office, revenues soared. Recognizing the widespread demand for her expertise, Shelley founded PPO Advisors in 2013, marking the beginning of her mission to empower dental practices with the tools to negotiate better PPO contracts. Hailing from a rural background in Nebraska, Shelley's journey has been marked by her unwavering work ethic and an integrity-based approach to business. Her commitment to leveling the playing field for her clients, allowing them to work smarter and amplify profits, showcases her dedication to driving positive change within the dental industry. During our conversation with Shelley, we delve into intriguing topics that shed light on the crucial aspects of PPO negotiations. We explore the concept of umbrella networks and whether PPO Advisors accepts them, shedding light on the complexities that dental practices navigate. Fee schedules and time frames also come under discussion, providing valuable insights into the meticulous work that goes into optimizing PPO contracts. One of the highlights of our conversation is Shelley's wisdom on reducing dependence on PPOs and identifying the thresholds for maintaining a healthy balance. Her expertise empowers dental practitioners to make informed decisions that align with their growth strategies. As a pioneering force in the industry, Shelley has nurtured PPO Advisors into a success that is propelled by a dedicated team. We gain insights into the growth journey of her team, the turnaround time to onboard clients, and what truly sets PPO Advisors apart from competitors. To connect with Shelley DeGroff and explore how PPO Advisors can transform your dental practice's PPO negotiations, visit https://ppoadvisors.com/. EPISODE RESOURCES ppoadvisors.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we delve into the recent significant surge in interest rates and its repercussions on various sectors, notably dentistry. We discuss how, in times of low-interest rates pre-COVID and post-pandemic, private equity groups capitalized by leveraging businesses with debt. This strategy fueled the quick aggregation of dental practices. However, the current upswing in interest rates has put enterprises, particularly those supported by private equity, in a challenging position. Many of these firms are now re-evaluating their previous aggressive acquisition methods, shifting their focus from a pure aggregation model to an operation-centric model. This transition is evident in the increasing workout activities. Furthermore, we highlight a case of a private equity-backed regional DSO on the East Coast, where the lender's reduction in the debt to EBITDA multiple translated to a $30 million decrease in available debt funding. As the market evolves, our conversation underscores the importance for sellers and equity rollers to vet their buyers meticulously. This includes understanding the buyer's capital structure, debt setup, and operational history to safeguard the equity aspect of any transaction. Finally, we emphasize the need to distinguish between mere aggregators and genuine operators in the industry. The "Scaling from Clinician to CEO" event will take place in Scottsdale at the Phoenician from October 11th-13th. Designed for those with one to five dental practices, the event provides insights on transitioning from a clinical role to a CEO position. Topics will address systematization, legal challenges, attracting associates, and appropriate bank funding. Prioritizing hands-on learning and actionable insights, the sessions are tailored for those aiming to expand and navigate the intricacies of dental business growth. Registration is capped at 150 participants to ensure an intimate learning environment. The emphasis is on the rising challenges of running small dental businesses and the advantages of evolving into a group practice model. Group Practice Accelerator Podcast: https://app.resonaterecordings.com/hosting/group-practice-accelerator Our SFC2CEO Event Link: https://www.polarishealthcarepartners.com/scaling-from-clinician-to-ceo To Download the SFC2CEO agenda: https://14514098.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/14514098/C2C_Agenda_08292023.pdf EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.polarishealthcarepartners.com/scaling-from-clinician-to-ceo https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, we delve deep into the intricacies of the dental industry, exploring the challenges and opportunities that lie therein. Guiding us through this journey is Justin Ditkofsky, the visionary force behind WeCare Practice Advisors. As we navigate this conversation, we'll uncover the pivotal role WeCare plays in sculpting the success of dental businesses across North America. Justin Ditkofsky, the Founder and CEO of WeCare Practice Advisors. Over the past decade, Justin has woven an intricate tapestry of experience, not just in dentistry, but also in realms of private equity, venture capital, technology, and real estate development. It's this rich mosaic of knowledge that has shaped him into a beacon for dental professionals, both in Canada and the United States. Whether it's a startup or an established dental practice looking to expand, relocate, or even navigate a lease negotiation, Justin's insights have become invaluable. Beyond the world of dentistry, his influence is felt in the tech sector as an Advisor to Rhenti and in the myriad real estate development projects he passionately engages with. In our riveting dialogue, Justin paints a vivid picture of what an ideal partnership between WeCare and dental professionals looks like. He helps us understand the symphony of factors that dictate when and how a dental entity should engage with WeCare, ensuring an orchestra of success. We traverse the broad avenues of the commercial real estate landscape, understanding its nuances, its quirks, and its profound impact on businesses, especially in the dental domain. Justin then brings us into the protective embrace of WeCare's in-house legal sanctum, revealing how their legal maestros work tirelessly to ensure the best outcomes for clients. And as we journey across the nation, we learn about WeCare's expansive footprint, a mark of trust and excellence that stretches across all 50 states. We also delve into the unique opportunities that beckon dental practice owners, especially as they stand on the cusp of pivotal moments, like the end of a lease. Connect with the experts at WeCare. Begin your journey today by visiting drwecare.com. EPISODE RESOURCES drwecare.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's surgical Saturday episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) and membranes, joined by two exceptional surgical experts, Dr. Dan Briskey and Dr. Taher Dhoon. These surgical gurus aren't just talking theory; they're sharing real-world insights that will change the way you think about dental procedures. Here's a sneak peek of what you can expect: Discover how PRF can supercharge the healing process, accelerate wound closure, and significantly reduce infections. It's like magic happening right in your patient's mouth. Uncover the powerful synergy between PRF and membranes, especially in complex procedures like guided bone regeneration (GBR). PRF provides the growth factors, while membranes offer crucial structural support. Find out why patient selection is crucial. Not every patient is a perfect fit for PRF, and you'll want to know who can benefit most from this cutting-edge technique. Get a behind-the-scenes look at the technical process of using PRF. From drawing blood to centrifuging and applying it in surgery, you'll gain valuable insights into this innovative procedure. Learn how PRF can increase your success rates, lower your costs, and speed up the healing process. It's a game-changer that's making waves in the world of dentistry. Discover the best ways to incorporate PRF into your practice and get comfortable with drawing blood. Whether it's through courses or collaboration, you'll learn how to master this transformative technique. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for dental professionals looking to take their skills to the next level. Don't miss out on the chance to explore the incredible world of PRF and membranes with these experts. Stay tuned for more advanced surgical insights in future episodes! EPISODE RESOURCES https://www.coloradosurgicalinstitute.com/courses https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast

On today's episode, Dr. Mark Costes engages in a captivating conversation with Dr. Sarah Blair, a visionary dentist and the co-founder of Indie Practices. Get ready to delve into the world of effective leadership and practice management. Dr. Sarah Blair's journey from veterinary school to dentistry is both inspiring and intriguing. Her passion for business ownership led her to venture into the dental field with a unique perspective. As a co-founder of Indie Practices, she has become a staunch advocate of transformative leadership to drive practice growth. Dr. Blair's story unfolds with her decision to purchase a struggling small dental practice, a move that transformed it into a thriving venture generating $1 million in annual revenue within just four years. Her passion for clinical dentistry converged with a deep-rooted interest in practice management, eventually leading her to embrace a pivotal role in shaping Indie Practices. Indie Practices, founded in 2018, stands as a testament to Dr. Blair's commitment to coaching and empowering independent practice owners. Driven by her collaboration with a leadership coach from the education sector, the practice focuses on cultivating quantifiable practice management skills through transformational leadership. The conversation delves into the core of Indie Practices' model, emphasizing the profound impact of transformational leadership on dental practices and beyond. Dr. Blair sheds light on common themes she coaches her members through, including the intricacies of Human Resources. Dr. Blair's life outside dentistry takes center stage as she shares her adventurous experience of living on a sailboat and navigating the challenges of life at sea. She recounts the scariest situation she and her husband encountered during their sailing journey. Listeners gain insights into Dr. Blair's daily routine and client interactions. Her commitment to her role as a coach and consultant shines through, revealing her dedication to fostering positive change in the lives of practice owners. Dr. Blair introduces the concept of measuring backward from one's desired point of fulfillment, emphasizing the significance of finding happiness at every step of the journey. The episode wraps up with a discussion on work-life balance and the profound impact that effective leadership can have on both professional endeavors and personal well-being. To connect with Dr. Sarah Blair and learn more about Indie Practices, visit indiepractices.com. EPISODE RESOURCES indiepractices.com https://www.truedentalsuccess.com Dental Success Network Subscribe to The Dentalpreneur Podcast