The Dental Marketer

Discover how collaborating with real estate agents can transform your dental practice by tapping into the 70% of new movers who switch providers. Learn about unique strategies like the Welcome Gift Model and how realtors' endorsements create trust and lasting relationships. Michael shares effective partnership frameworks and actionable steps for connecting with realtors. Avoid common pitfalls in local marketing, and embrace a hospitality approach to turn newcomers into loyal patients.

Imagine carving out a dental practice that puts principles and patient well-being above insurance red tape. That’s exactly what Dr. Kristen Self set out to do in New Braunfels, Texas, building her pediatric dental clinic from the ground up (outside the confines of traditional insurance models.) In this episode, Dr. Self opens up about the emotional rollercoaster and practical challenges of staying independent, describing how she crafted a thriving, holistic, and minimally invasive practice tailored to families who value prevention, transparency, and genuine care.Discover the pivotal decisions that shaped the fate of her business, from navigating a licensing hurdle that forced a rebrand to leveraging local storytelling for powerful, trust-building marketing. Dr. Self gets candid about the financial uncertainty and the payoff that comes with running a values-driven clinic, all while developing strong team foundations and a unique patient experience. You will walk away with actionable insights on authentic leadership, transparent communication, and creative marketing that connects deeply with your community!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to establish a successful out-of-network, holistic dental practiceThe pros and cons of rejecting traditional insurance-based care modelsWays to use local storytelling and authentic content for impactful marketingBuilding and maintaining transparent communication with both patients and staffStrategies for facing business setbacks and staying aligned with your ethicsSystems that support a calm, reliable, and values-based dental environmentThe importance of community connection for patient engagement and loyaltyTools and ideas for effective local advertising and brandingHow adaptability and authenticity drive growth in independent practicesLeadership lessons for nurturing a resilient, dedicated team cultureTune in to uncover how authentic vision and creative strategy could be your next step to success!‍Sponsors:‍Practice Real Estate Group: healthcare real estate experts with over a century of experience in medical real estate across hundreds of transactions. Visit their site and mention "The Dental Marketer" for a FREE demographic and competition study for your new location! practicerealestategroup.comGuest: Dr. Kristen SelfPractice Name: River Smiles DentalCheck out Kristen's Media:‍Website: riversmilesnb.comEmail: kristenkself@gmail.comKristen's Free Downloads: stan.store/DrSelfPractice Instagram: instagram.com/riversmilesnbPractice TikTok: tiktok.com/@riversmilesnbKristen's Instagram: instagram.com/kristenkselfKristen's TikTok: tiktok.com/@kristenkself‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

What if becoming your town’s trusted dentist had less to do with technical skill and more with being the first name on everyone’s lips when dental questions arise?This episode uncovers the real secret behind becoming the community’s go-to practice: building unmistakable authority where it matters most. Drawing from real-life examples and actionable strategies, we'll zero in on how public recognition, social mentions, and word-of-mouth from local leaders shape your reputation, often before patients even step foot in your office.From nailing down your unique message to showing up on the right stages, online and in-person, we break down the four essential pillars of authority: clarity, visibility, education, and consistency. You’ll learn how to teach rather than promote, leverage collaborative partnerships, and roll out educational initiatives that make you a household name. Discover five quick-start authority plays you can implement today and follow a step-by-step 90-day action plan designed to transform your practice into a trusted resource for your entire community. Bottom line? Trust, built through education and presence, determines who gets the call when dental needs arise (not just the flashiest ad or fanciest equipment.)What You'll Learn in This Episode:The four pillars dentists must establish to command community authorityHow to clarify your niche and message so patients know what you stand forBest practices for getting visible in local events, digital channels, and collaborating with area influencersWhy teaching, not just promoting, builds trust and cements your reputationFive fast-track strategies to increase word-of-mouth and public recognitionAn actionable 90-day plan to boost your standing and become top-of-mindTips for developing partnerships with other trusted local expertsWays to create signature offerings, like community classes or myth-busting series, that position you as a thought leaderPress play and discover how to make your dental practice the community’s first choice (without relying on endless promotions or noisy ads.)‍‍Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!‍

What if you could reach your biggest practice goals in half the time you planned, without sacrificing your well-being along the way? In this episode, Dr. Justin Baik reveals how he rapidly transformed his vision of dental practice ownership into reality, smashing his five-year plan in just two and a half years. Driven by the weight of student debt, Dr. Baik didn't wait for the "perfect moment." Instead, he seized unique opportunities presented during the COVID-19 pandemic, optimizing financial strategies and decisively launching his practice in a prime retail location outside Chicago.Dr. Baik shares the blueprints behind his accelerated success, from leveraging low-interest rates and student loan refinancing to painstaking demographic research and data-driven site selection. He opens up about the practical sacrifices, the value of focusing on growing income (not just saving) and why prioritizing staff satisfaction and operational efficiency are non-negotiable for long-term success. Through honest reflection, Dr. Baik demonstrates how calculated risks, meticulous planning, and adaptable leadership can not only jumpstart your professional journey but also create space for a healthier work-life balance down the line.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Smart strategies for paying off student loans in record timeHow to leverage economic cycles and low-interest rates for financial growthThe step-by-step process of using data and demographics to select a winning practice locationWhy increasing income outperforms simply cutting expenses for rapid debt payoffTactics to boost staff happiness and retain top talentThe importance of relentless operational improvementNavigating the mental challenges and sacrifices of early practice ownershipCreating robust systems that eventually give you more personal freedomThe mindset shifts needed for sustainable, accelerated growthPractical resources Dr. Baik used to get aheadHit play to discover Dr. Baik’s proven path to achieving dental practice success, faster and smarter!‍Sponsors:‍Net32: Founded by a dentist, for dentists. Net32 is the leading online marketplace for dental supplies, helping dental and medical professionals save on high-quality products for over 25 years. Start saving today at: net32.com/dentalmarketerGuest: Dr. Justin BaikPractice Name: Fox Pediatric DentistryCheck out Justin's Media:‍Website: foxpediatricdentistry.comEmail: justinbaik88@gmail.com‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!‍

Are your ground marketing events driving real results or just foot traffic with no follow-through?Let's learn the secret to transforming your dental practice’s ground marketing efforts by focusing on the numbers that truly matter. In this episode, we unravel the common traps that derail dental teams, like mistaking positive interactions for meaningful impact or tracking a flood of metrics that don’t actually move the needle. Instead, we break down the five essential numbers every team should measure: contacts captured, same-day appointments booked, 24-hour conversions, show rate, and 30-day revenue. You’ll learn why your marketing events should function as mini-labs, designed to capture data, test new tactics, and fine-tune your approach for maximum patient growth.We’ll guide you step-by-step through capturing leads more effectively, creating urgency for same-day bookings, and turning opportunities into real appointments within 24 hours. Discover practical language tweaks and reminder systems that boost your show rate and ensure new patients walk through your door. Plus, find out how to track 30-day revenue so you know which efforts yield actual ROI—and when it’s time to double down or walk away from a partnership. You’ll leave with a proven framework for assessing, adjusting, and amplifying your ground marketing strategies (all rooted in actionable data and smart experimentation.)What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why focusing on five core metrics outperforms tracking vanity dataThe step-by-step system for capturing quality leads at every eventHow to create urgency and book more same-day appointmentsTechniques for converting leads within 24 hours for higher successScripts and strategies to improve your show rate dramaticallyHow to tie each event to measurable, 30-day revenue outcomesDiagnosing weak spots (what your data tells you about your marketing gaps)The formula for running controlled, effective marketing experimentsHow to run productive team meetings for ongoing ground marketing successClear benchmarks for deciding when to invest in or drop partnershipsTune in now to turn your ground marketing events into real, revenue-generating engines for your practice!‍‍Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

Ever felt that awkward moment when it’s time to talk dollars and cents with a patient, only to watch their interest in treatment vanish on the way to the front desk? In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest bottlenecks in dental practice efficiency, "the dreaded financial discussion," and why it’s time to get your entire clinical team fluent in handling money conversations.Michael is joined by dental efficiency expert Susan Leckowicz to unpack strategies that empower dental assistants and hygienists to confidently handle treatment costs and scheduling right in the operatory. Susan shares why cross-training staff and implementing standardized financial agreement forms can dramatically cut down on patients changing their minds post-consult, while also making life easier for your team. Hear how direct, early, and clear financial conversations (supported by scripts, flexible payment options, and simple forms) remove uncertainty for patients, build trust, and foster more accepted treatment plans. If you’ve struggled with lost revenue or team discomfort when discussing finances, this episode is packed with practical, step-by-step solutions!What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why relying solely on a treatment coordinator can hinder case acceptanceStep-by-step tips for cross-training dental assistants and hygienists to discuss financesHow to create and leverage a standardized, auto-populated financial agreement formEffective scripts your team can use for confident financial conversations with patientsHow to seamlessly present payment options like CareCredit and upfront discountsStrategies for building trust and increasing patient commitment to treatment plansWays to reduce patient drop-off between operatory and front deskTraining methods to help your team feel comfortable discussing moneyThe positive impact of streamlined processes on patient experience and productivityHit play now to discover actionable ways to simplify money talks and boost confidence in your treatment plans for your team and your patients!‍Sponsors:‍CallRail: Never miss a call again! Voice Assist answers and qualifies every inbound call 24/7, so you capture every new patient. Try the 14 day free trial for our listeners at: sta.mx/m2wx‍Click the image for a 14 day free trial!Guest: Susan LeckowiczBusiness Name: Dental CoachesCheck out Susan's Media:‍Website: dentalcoaches.comEmail: susan@dentalcoaches.comBook a Call with Susan! calendly.com/susan-dentalcoaches/podcast-fa-form‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!‍

Is there a one-size-fits-all way to build genuine relationships in both bustling cities and close-knit small towns?This episode reveals how authentic, face-to-face interactions can weave your practice into the fabric of both urban and rural communities.Instead of relying on impersonal ads or digital campaigns, we explore how presence, repetition, and genuine connection in everyday spaces build trust that no billboard can match. In urban environments, you’ll learn how to naturally fit into the rhythm of busy lives—showing up at the gym, the coffee shop, and even apartment complexes, always with a friendly smile and zero sales pressure. For rural areas, it’s about heartfelt gestures and authentic participation in community events—think local school gatherings, farmers’ markets, and neighborly thank-yous. Throughout, we’ll highlight practical ways to be recognized not as a promoter, but as a vital part of the community, while measuring your impact with metrics that actually matter.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How ground marketing transforms practices into familiar, trusted facesDifferences between urban and rural ground marketing (and why they matter)Real-life tactics for showing up in busy city spaces without being intrusiveWays to connect meaningfully at rural events and schoolsThe importance of reciprocity and creating genuine value for your communityHow to use thoughtful gestures, from appreciation bags to local spotlightsDesigning engaging community walls and offers using QR codesSteps to begin your ground marketing journey, one location at a timeReady to become a part of your community, not just another practice? Press play to learn the best way to promote your practice in urban and rural settings!‍‍Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!‍

Why do some dental practices have teams that go the extra mile while others struggle with high turnover and mediocre results?In this episode, Dino Watt unveils the secrets behind building a vibrant practice culture that doesn’t just improve patient experience—it transforms every facet of your business. Drawing from an extraordinary journey that started in Hollywood and led to dental practice consulting, Dino shares unique strategies grounded in business principles, storytelling, and real-world experience, illustrating how practice owners can foster tighter-knit teams and higher-performing offices.From crafting vision statements to living out core values, Dino explains why successful cultures don’t happen by accident (and how dentists can intentionally shape theirs for long-term success.) You’ll discover actionable tips on hiring the right people (and letting go of the wrong ones), providing feedback that strengthens rather than divides, and creating a magnetic workplace where every team member feels essential. Whether you’re grappling with tough conversations, looking to boost morale, or striving to attract and retain top talent, Dino’s practical wisdom will equip you to cultivate a dental practice where patients and staff alike genuinely want to stay.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The essential elements of a practice vision and how it attracts the right team members.Why core values are non-negotiable for building high standards and unity.How to approach tough conversations and give constructive feedback that motivates change.Ways to foster a culture where every employee feels needed, valued, and engaged.The importance of being inquisitive rather than accusatory in team dynamics.How to improve hiring practices for lasting team success.Strategies to quickly address problematic behavior before it impacts culture.Steps to create a magnetic work environment that both retains and attracts talent.Press play to discover Dino Watt’s proven strategies for turning your dental practice into a place where both patients and team members truly want to be.‍Sponsors:‍CallRail: Never miss a call again! Voice Assist answers and qualifies every inbound call 24/7, so you capture every new patient. Try the 14 day free trial for our listeners at: sta.mx/m2wx‍Click the image for a 14 day free trial!Guest: Dino WattBusiness Name: Dino Watt ConsultingCheck out Dino's Media:‍Consulting Website: dinowattconsulting.comSpeaking Website: dinowatt.comDino's Books:The Practice Rx: Second EditionThe Magnetic Culture EquationInstagram: instagram.com/dinowatt‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

Picture this: Your practice and the shop next door becoming your neighborhood’s favorite duo!Too many local practices chase new patients when they could be building networks that bring them in by the dozen. This episode pulls back the curtain on a smarter strategy: focusing on partnerships that make other businesses shine, so your reputation (and client list) grows naturally. You’ll learn how ground marketing isn’t just about being visible—it’s about creating value for others first, and letting reciprocity and trust do the work for you.Michael breaks down exactly how to select and approach the right local vendors, using three simple filters that cut through the noise. You’ll walk away knowing how to identify partnership opportunities with coffee shops, gyms, salons, and more, and why starting small can actually get you bigger wins faster. With tangible examples, we’ll show how to create irresistible win-win offers and how spotlight strategies can boost your partners’ reputation while opening doors for your own success. By the end, you’ll have a ready-to-use pitch framework and the motivation to launch your first partnership today!What You'll Learn in This Episode:The critical mindset shift from seeking patients to championing your partnersHow the psychology of reciprocity, social proof, and identity fuel lasting partnershipsThree must-have filters for selecting ideal vendor partnersWhy smaller, local businesses are your best first targetsCreative ideas for perks and recognition that delight vendors and their customersStrategies for crafting a partnership pitch that lands every timeHow to track, optimize, and scale your local partnership resultsAction steps to move from planning to real-world progressStart building the kind of partnerships that make local businesses (and your reputation) unforgettable by tuning in now!‍‍Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

Wondering if now’s the right time to modernize your dental workflows? Here’s how to decide AND rally your staff behind tech upgrades for the office.Step inside a family-owned prosthodontic office in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, where Ashley Whinery, the dedicated practice manager, shares her journey of navigating demanding clinical work, an experienced (and older) staff, and a major technology overhaul. From handling intricate dental cases to reversing negative patient experiences, Ashley opens up about the real-life struggles and triumphs of leadership in a small but mighty dental team.This episode delves deep into how compassion, teamwork, and the right tools make all the difference in a high-pressure environment. Ashley reveals the common trap of dentists overextending themselves for patients’ sake, risking burnout, and why open lines of communication matter more than ever. She also breaks down the practice’s strategic leap from Eaglesoft to Dentrix Ascend, sharing the challenges of upgrading from outdated systems and the smooth, cloud-based features that transformed their daily operations. If you’re searching for actionable advice on team dynamics, technology transitions, or simply trying to preserve a positive work culture, this candid conversation is for you!What You'll Learn in This Episode:Actionable strategies for balancing patient care with staff well-beingHow to foster open communication and collaboration in a close-knit dental teamThe warning signs and prevention tactics for burnoutLessons from transitioning to a cloud-based dental practice management systemReal-world workflow improvements after adopting Dentrix AscendOvercoming IT setbacks and resistance to change in your practiceWhy a supportive team is crucial during major operational shiftsHelpful advice for practices tackling big technological or procedural updatesThe value of taking chances and prioritizing family-work balanceTune in now to hear Ashley’s firsthand playbook for thriving through change and prioritizing your team’s well-being.Listen on your favorite streaming platform here!Sponsors:‍Dentrix Ascend: Smarter System, Smarter Practice: Dentrix Ascend Cloud-Based Dental Software Break free from software hassles and come with us to the cloud. Spend less time managing your practice and more time caring for your patients. Request a free 30 minute or less demo at: dentrixascend.com/promo/exploreGuest: Ashley WhineryPractice Name: Lux White Dental GroupCheck out Ashley's Media:‍Website: luxwhitedental.com‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!