Just a Couple of Dentists

Dental Horror Stories: Buying a Nightmare Practice (ft. Dr. Cory Ball)

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," Eric and Alex welcome Dr. Cory Ball, a recent dental practice owner who shares his journey of purchasing a practice a few months ago. The conversation dives deep into the challenges and realities of practice ownership.
Cory recounts his initial excitement about buying a practice that was only open two days a week, highlighting the potential he saw for growth. However, he quickly learned that the transition was not as smooth as he had hoped. The episode explores the pitfalls of practice ownership, including the importance of understanding the existing systems and staff before making significant changes. Cory candidly discusses the red flags he encountered, such as the lack of organization at the front desk and the challenges of managing insurance claims.
Throughout the episode, we touch on the importance of meeting staff before finalizing a purchase, as well as the necessity of rebranding when taking over a practice with a less-than-stellar reputation. 
As the conversation unfolds, Cory reflects on the emotional rollercoaster of ownership, from the initial excitement to the daily challenges of running a practice. He discusses the importance of maintaining a positive mindset and focusing on the small victories, even amidst the chaos of ownership.
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How an Employee Stole $5,000 Right Under Our Noses (ft. David Harris)

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," we dive into a serious and often overlooked issue in the dental industry: embezzlement. Alex and I share a personal experience from one of our practices, where we discovered a case of embezzlement involving a former employee. The episode begins with a discussion about the importance of dentists taking control of their financial reports and not relying solely on staff to filter information.
We introduce our guest, David Harris, an expert in dental embezzlement and owner of Prosperident, who provides valuable insights into the common tactics used by thieves in dental practices. David explains that embezzlement often occurs gradually, likening it to a dripping tap rather than a broken pipe. He shares alarming statistics, revealing that the average embezzlement case can exceed $100,000, and that many thieves employ multiple methods to steal funds.
As we unpack our specific case, we discuss the red flags that were missed, including suspicious DoorDash transactions that were traced back to the employee's home. David emphasizes the importance of having robust financial controls in place, such as regular reconciliations between practice management software and bank statements. He highlights the dangers of relying on subjective documents and encourages dentists to print their own reports to ensure accuracy.
Throughout the episode, we explore the psychological aspects of embezzlement, noting that successful thieves often present themselves as friendly and indispensable team members. David provides practical advice on how to safeguard practices against theft, including the importance of limiting administrative access in practice management software and regularly changing passwords.
In a lighter moment, Alex shares a personal story about a scam she fell victim to, which serves as a reminder of the various ways professionals can be targeted. David draws parallels between this experience and the manipulation tactics used by embezzlers, highlighting the need for vigilance in both personal and professional finances.
This episode is packed with actionable strategies and insights that every dentist should consider to protect their practice from financial fraud. Whether you're a solo practitioner or part of a larger DSO, the lessons shared here are crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of your dental practice.

Dental Website Secrets from a Top Entertainment Editor

In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the art of storytelling and its significance in the field of dentistry. Inspired by a recent episode of "My First Million," I reflect on how storytelling can transform the way we communicate with patients. Often, dental professionals focus heavily on technical jargon, explaining procedures like crowns and root canals without considering the emotional journey of the patient. I share my belief that we can enhance patient engagement and understanding by weaving narratives into our communications.
To explore this concept further, I invite my longtime friend Mack Rawden, who has extensive experience in the entertainment industry as the editor-in-chief of CinemaBlend. Mack has a natural talent for storytelling and has seen firsthand how effective narratives can captivate audiences. We discuss how storytelling can be applied in various contexts, including dental practices, to better connect with patients.
Mack emphasizes the importance of understanding the audience's intent when crafting content. He explains that different patients have varying levels of interest and knowledge, and it's crucial to cater to all of them. We explore how to structure dental websites to include engaging headlines, clear information, and emotional narratives that resonate with potential patients. Mack shares insights on how to effectively use testimonials and visual elements to enhance the storytelling experience.
Throughout our conversation, we touch on the significance of first impressions, particularly when patients visit a dental website for the first time. We discuss the importance of professionalism in design and the need for a human touch to make patients feel comfortable. Mack shares his thoughts on the role of reviews in building trust and how to respond to negative feedback in a way that maintains professionalism.
As we wrap up the episode, we reflect on the challenges of managing patient expectations and the importance of conveying the benefits of dental procedures rather than just the technical details. We conclude that by embracing storytelling, dental professionals can create a more engaging and relatable experience for their patients, ultimately leading to better outcomes for both parties.
Join us for this insightful discussion that not only highlights the power of storytelling but also provides practical tips for enhancing patient communication in the dental field.

Why Dentists Are Ditching the Drill (ft. the "Podfather" Dr. Alan Mead)

In this episode of our podcast, we dive into the evolving landscape of dentistry and the motivations behind the increasing trend of young dentists pursuing side gigs and alternative careers outside of clinical practice.
We kick off the conversation by reflecting on our own experiences since graduating in 2013. Both Alex and I share our feelings of burnout and a waning passion for traditional clinical dentistry, which leads us to question why so many of our peers are exploring side hustles. We reminisce about the early days of our careers, where podcasts like Dental Hacks and Thriving Dentist provided us with both clinical insights and a sense of camaraderie during our long commutes.
Our guest, Alan Mead, a seasoned podcaster, joins us to provide his perspective on the current state of dental podcasting and the rise of side gigs among younger dentists. Alan shares his journey in the podcasting world, highlighting how the landscape has changed since he first entered it, with a significant increase in the number of dental podcasts available today.
We discuss the appeal of side hustles, including the allure of social media influencing and the challenges that come with it. Alan points out that while clinical dentistry offers a stable and lucrative career, many younger dentists are drawn to the flexibility and creativity that side gigs provide.
As the conversation progresses, we engage in a fun segment where we play a "Kiss, Marry, Kill" game with various potential side gigs. Each of us shares our preferences and reasoning, leading to some humorous and insightful discussions about the realities of these roles.
It was an honor to bring on one of the "OG's" of dental podcasting and hope to have him on future episodes!

O Canada! The Surprising Differences in Dentistry Up North (w/Dr. Dante Carlascio)

In this episode of our podcast, we welcome back an old friend and fellow Canadian, Dr. Dante Carlascio, who was not only our vice president in dental school but also a roommate of Eric's for a year. We kick off the conversation by reminiscing about our time in dental school, particularly the unique tradition Dante started called the "Cuspid Crawl."
Dante shares some hilarious anecdotes from our anatomy lab, including a memorable incident where his hair caught fire due to the overhead lights. We then transition into discussing Dante's career path after graduation, where he returned to his hometown of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. He reflects on his journey from being an associate in a dental practice to eventually buying his own practice, highlighting the challenges and rewards of ownership.
The conversation shifts to the differences between American and Canadian dentistry, particularly in how periodontal treatments are coded and billed. Dante explains that in Canada, scaling is time-based, with specific units defined by 15-minute increments, contrasting sharply with the American system that categorizes treatments based on the number of teeth involved.
We also delve into the structure of dental practices in Canada, discussing the role of restorative hygienists, who have additional training to perform certain procedures typically done by dentists in the U.S. This leads to a discussion about pay structures for hygienists and the current labor market challenges both countries are facing.
As we wrap up, we have some fun with a light-hearted segment on pronunciation differences between American and Canadian English.
Overall, this episode is a blend of nostalgia, professional insights, and cultural differences, making for an engaging and informative listen for anyone interested in the world of dentistry.

Why ALL dental partnerships need a PRE-NUP! - Part 2 (with Dr. Richard Low)

In Part 2 of this episode, we emphasize the significance of having written agreements and clear expectations from the outset. We highlight the common red flags to watch for when considering a partnership, such as having partners with the same skill set or time commitments, which can lead to stagnation and resentment.
We also touch on the emotional aspects of partnerships, particularly the stress and anxiety that can arise when expectations are not met. Dr. Richard Low shares their personal journey of stepping down from a leadership role in a DSO due to overwhelming pressure, illustrating the importance of knowing one's limits and the impact of mental health on professional relationships.
In a lighter segment, we share a shocking story about a dental assistant who called in sick after committing a serious crime, prompting a discussion about accountability and communication in the workplace. This anecdote serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of human behavior and the importance of maintaining professionalism.
As we wrap up the episode, we reflect on the lessons learned from our experiences with partnerships and how they can be applied to both professional and personal relationships. We encourage our listeners to approach partnerships with caution, emphasizing the need for transparency, clear communication, and a solid foundation to ensure success.
Join us for this engaging and informative episode as we navigate the ups and downs of partnerships in the dental world, sharing laughter, lessons, and practical advice along the way.

Why ALL dental partnerships need a PRE-NUP! - Part 1 (with Dr. Richard Low)

In Part One of this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of partnerships in the dental industry, featuring a special guest, Richard Low, the founder of the Shared Practices Podcast. Richard shares his unique journey of navigating partnerships while serving in the military and the eventual decision to part ways with his partners, Hunter and Will from Guided Practice Solutions (GPS).
We kick off the episode with a light-hearted introduction, where we discuss Richard's impressive background, including his military service and the connections we discovered between him and our hosts. Richard's story begins with his time in the Army, where he managed to start a podcast while completing his Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD). He shares how he sought approval from the military to pursue his podcasting and business interests, emphasizing the importance of understanding the risks involved in seeking permission versus simply moving forward.
As the conversation unfolds, Richard recounts how he partnered with Hunter and Will to acquire multiple dental practices while still in a non-clinical military role. He candidly discusses the challenges of managing multiple offices, especially during the tumultuous times of COVID-19, and the complexities that arise when dealing with various team members and doctors.
The heart of the episode focuses on Richard's realization that the partnership was no longer aligned with his vision. He describes the moment he decided to "break up" with Hunter and Will, highlighting the emotional and logistical challenges of untangling their business relationship. Richard emphasizes the importance of having a clear agreement in place for partnerships, akin to a prenup, to avoid complications during a breakup.
Throughout the episode, we explore the dynamics of their partnership, the discussions that led to their amicable separation, and the lessons learned from the experience. Richard shares how they managed to navigate the breakup without resorting to legal battles, maintaining open communication and mutual respect throughout the process.
In closing, Richard reflects on the value of good partnerships and the importance of recognizing when a partnership is no longer serving your goals. He leaves listeners with valuable insights on managing partnerships in the dental field and the significance of having a clear plan for potential separations.
Join us for this engaging and informative episode as we unpack the realities of dental partnerships, the challenges of managing multiple practices, and the importance of clear communication in business relationships.

How We FAILED Our Team…And What We Learned!

In this episode of "Just a Couple of Dentists," Eric and Alex dive deep into the intricacies of delegation within their dental practices and personal lives. Reflecting on their experiences since selling their practices, they discuss the challenges and lessons learned about effectively delegating tasks to team members.
The episode begins with a candid acknowledgment of a past mistake: failing to set clear expectations for a newly appointed regional manager. Eric shares how they brought in a consultant to implement the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to help organize their growing practices. However, they quickly realized that while they had the framework in place, they had not adequately defined the role or provided the necessary support for their regional manager to succeed. This lack of clarity led to stress and ultimately contributed to her departure from the role.
As the conversation unfolds, Eric and Alex emphasize the importance of mastering a role before delegating it. They reflect on their early days in practice, where they learned every aspect of their operations to create a comprehensive "how-to" manual. This foundational knowledge allowed them to effectively train their team and ensure consistency in patient care and office management.
The hosts also discuss the significance of feedback loops in delegation. They stress that clear communication is essential for success, as team members need to understand the nuances of their tasks. Eric highlights the importance of writing down processes to prevent the dilution of quality over time, using the example of patient experience protocols that can become less effective if not documented.
Transitioning to personal life, Alex shares how they have delegated household tasks, such as cleaning and meal preparation, to free up time for family and business growth. By outsourcing these responsibilities, they can focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with their children and expanding their business ventures.
Throughout the episode, Eric and Alex provide valuable insights into the balance of delegation, emphasizing that while it's essential to trust your team, it's equally important to maintain oversight and clarity. They conclude by discussing the need for a base level of knowledge in areas like marketing and finance to make informed decisions when hiring experts.
Join us for this engaging discussion filled with practical advice and personal anecdotes that will resonate with anyone looking to improve their delegation skills, whether in a professional or personal context.

How We Sell Dentistry WITHOUT Feeling Like Salesmen! (w/ Spencer Greer)

Our guest, Dr. Spencer Greer, is a successful dentist with two thriving practices in Washington, and shares his unique journey and insights that have propelled him to impressive heights in the dental industry.
As we introduce Dr. Spencer, we reflect on our long-standing virtual friendship, having connected through Facebook groups dedicated to sharing best practices in dentistry. With over six million in revenue across his two offices, Dr. Spencer's achievements are nothing short of inspiring. However, we also take a light-hearted look at the challenges of managing online reviews, including a particularly scathing one that Dr. Spencer received. His humorous and candid response to negative feedback highlights the importance of authenticity and personality in patient communication.
The conversation shifts to the topic of sales and how Dr. Spencer's background in door-to-door sales has shaped his approach to dentistry. He shares valuable lessons learned from his time selling home security systems, emphasizing the need for immediate commitment from clients and the importance of building value in the services offered. This segues into a discussion about the common pitfalls dentists face when diagnosing treatment options and the need to confidently present the best course of action to patients.
We also touch on the dynamics of team management and the challenges of implementing changes within a practice. Dr. Spencer offers practical advice on how to navigate team buy-in during transitions, stressing the importance of clear communication and setting the right tone. He candidly shares his own experiences with team dynamics, including the emotional toll of feeling disliked when making tough decisions.
Throughout the episode, we explore the concept of patient psychology, particularly how to capitalize on the motivation of patients who are ready to commit to their dental health. Dr. Spencer encourages us to celebrate these moments and to be proactive in presenting comprehensive treatment options, much like a salesperson would in a retail environment.
In conclusion, this episode is packed with actionable insights for dental professionals looking to enhance their practice, improve patient relationships, and foster a positive team culture. Dr. Spencer's journey serves as a reminder that confidence, authenticity, and a focus on value can lead to remarkable success in dentistry. Join us for this engaging and informative discussion that promises to inspire and motivate!

We SOLD to a DSO and Lived to Tell the Tale (Part 2)

In Part 2, we dive deep into the intricate process of selling a dental practice and partnering with a Dental Service Organization (DSO). Our conversation is candid and insightful, as we share our personal experiences and the lessons learned throughout this journey.
We begin by discussing the chaotic initial months after signing the contract, highlighting the numerous logistical challenges that arise, such as transferring bank accounts and changing EIN numbers. The transition can feel overwhelming, but we emphasize the importance of being prepared and not settling for unfavorable contract terms.
As we recount our experience, we reflect on the process of narrowing down potential DSOs. Initially, we had a list of about 20 options, which we whittled down to six, and ultimately two that aligned with our goals. We explain how we leveraged our collective practices with friends to negotiate better terms, including a higher valuation for our practices.
The episode delves into the critical phase of the Letter of Intent (LOI), where we agreed on general terms and entered an exclusive relationship with the chosen DSO. We share the excitement and challenges of evaluating our practices' worth, emphasizing the significance of identifying and adding back personal and one-time expenses to enhance profitability.
We also stress the importance of having a dedicated attorney throughout this process. We discuss the necessity of understanding the legal documents and ensuring that all terms are in our favor, especially when it comes to potential pitfalls like clawbacks—an issue that many in the dental community face.
A significant portion of our discussion revolves around the timing of informing our staff about the sale. We share the anxiety that comes with this decision, balancing the DSO's desire for transparency with our concerns about staff retention. Ultimately, we reveal how we navigated this delicate situation and the relief we felt once the deal was finalized.
As we reflect on the first year post-sale, we acknowledge the ongoing partnership with the DSO and the importance of maintaining operational efficiency. We discuss the realistic expectations we had going into this partnership and the need for continued involvement in the practice's success.
Throughout the episode, we provide practical advice for anyone considering a similar path, emphasizing the importance of thorough preparation, clear communication, and understanding the intricacies of the deal. We conclude by expressing our enthusiasm for sharing future updates on our journey and the evolving landscape of dentistry and DSOs.
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