CEO Chairside with Dr. Greg Grillo

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with Dr. Doug Sandquist for a raw, honest, and deeply practical conversation about what it really takes to build a successful, and sustainable, dental practice.This is not another discussion about doing more dentistry, chasing production, or scaling at all costs.Instead, Dr. Sandquist shares the hard-earned lessons from nearly three decades in practice, including how he transitioned from chasing “what works” to building a model rooted in clarity, confidence, and fulfillment. From walking away from implant surgery to redefining case acceptance through trust, not pressure, this episode challenges many of the assumptions dentists are taught early in their careers.You’ll hear how slowing down can actually accelerate growth, why multiple consult visits can outperform same-day closes, and how defining non-negotiables, both clinically and personally, can transform not just your practice, but your life.This conversation also goes beyond dentistry. It dives into burnout, identity, and the reality that success is not just about profit; it’s about profit plus fulfillment. From the “10 summers with your kids” mindset to designing a practice that aligns with your values, this episode is a powerful reminder that you have more control than you think.Key Takeaways:Why the best dentists focus on trust-building, not speedThe hidden downside of “strike while the iron’s hot” case acceptanceHow to design a practice around your strengths—not industry normsThe real difference between fee-for-service and PPO stressWhy taking more time off may actually increase productivityThe importance of defining personal and professional non-negotiablesHow discovering your “why” can reshape your entire careerIf you’ve ever questioned whether the traditional path in dentistry is the right one, or felt the tension between production and purpose, this episode will hit home.Listen now and rethink what success in dentistry really looks like.

What would actually change in your practice… if someone with fresh eyes took it over tomorrow?In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo breaks down exactly what he would do in the first 30 days of owning a dental practice; no fluff, no theory, just real-world execution.From hidden production leaks to underperforming hygiene systems, weak case acceptance, and inefficient schedules, most practices aren’t broken. They’re leaving massive opportunity on the table. The problem is, these gaps are often invisible to the doctor living in it every day.This episode walks through a clear, week-by-week plan to uncover what’s really happening inside your practice and fix the issues that are quietly costing you growth, profitability, and time.If you’ve ever felt busy but not as productive or profitable as you should be… this will hit home.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why most practices misdiagnose their real problemWhere $300K–$1M in lost production is hidingHow to immediately improve hygiene performance and diagnosisThe biggest breakdowns in case acceptance and follow-upWhat separates a full schedule from a truly productive oneThis isn’t about working harder or chasing more new patients.It’s about fixing what’s already there, and finally running your practice like a CEO.

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with a multi-million dollar a year dental practice owner operating in a typical PPO-heavy market. Dr. Mike's no-BS approach breaks down what actually drives growth inside a practice.At first, it sounds like a straightforward conversation.Production per visit. Case acceptance. Hygiene performance. Scheduling discipline.But as the discussion unfolds, there’s a level of clarity… and consistency… that feels different.Not theoretical. Not polished. Just… unusually precise.The kind of perspective that makes you stop and think:Why don’t more practices operate this way?If you’ve ever felt like your practice should be producing more with the patients you already have, or that something in your system just isn’t clicking, this conversation will challenge the way you think about growth.Listen closely.

Every dental practice invests time and money trying to attract new patients.But what if one of the biggest growth opportunities in your practice isn’t marketing at all?What if it’s simply answering the phone?In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo explores one of the most overlooked revenue leaks in modern dentistry: missed calls.Research shows that up to 40% of business calls go unanswered, and dental practices are no exception. Yet when a potential patient calls your office, that moment often represents $3,000–$7,000 in lifetime patient value. If the phone rings and no one answers, the patient usually moves on to the next practice.Dr. Grillo breaks down the Missed Call Revenue Leak Model, showing how even a small percentage of missed calls can quietly cost practices tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars each year.In this episode you’ll learn:• Why the phone has become the true front door of the modern dental practice• The real lifetime value of a new patient, and why most dentists underestimate it• How missed calls quietly drain revenue without showing up on your reports• Why many practices think they have a marketing problem when they actually have a capture problem• Practical solutions, including two you probably haven't tried that ensure every opportunity is handledIf you want to understand one of the fastest ways to improve the economics of your practice without adding more dentistry to your schedule, this episode will change how you think about the ringing phone.Because sometimes the biggest growth opportunity in dentistry isn’t finding more patients.It’s making sure someone answers when they call.

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with Dr. Eric Nelson to unpack the emotional labor of dentistry, the invisible workload that comes from treating anxious, fearful, and vulnerable patients all day while still needing to perform with precision.They break down why many dentists don’t burn out because they don’t care… they burn out because they care too deeply without the tools to protect their nervous system. Dr. Nelson shares the framework behind his CE course The Compassion Equation, including the critical difference between empathy (absorbing emotion) and compassion (caring with boundaries), how mirror neurons and stress chemistry can hijack decision-making, and simple in-the-moment resets that help clinicians stay calm, present, and sustainable over decades.This isn’t a “wellness” chat. It’s a conversation about performance, longevity, and leadership—built for real clinical life.In this episode, you’ll learn:What “emotional labor” looks like in dentistry and why it’s uniquely intenseThe empathy vs. compassion reframe that prevents emotional depletionHow stress impacts the prefrontal cortex and clinical decision-makingPractical boundary language that preserves care without carrying outcomesSimple between-patient resets (breathwork + movement) for busy daysHabits that protect the long game—physically and emotionallyBonus: Dr. Nelson’s CE course The Compassion Equation: Sustaining Empathy Without Burnout in Dentistry offers 2 free CE credits. Find it HERE: https://ce.methodpro.com/course/the-compassion-equation-dentistryIf you’ve been feeling exhausted, irritable, numb, or “on edge” after work and can’t quite explain why—this episode will give you language, clarity, and a path forward.Subscribe for more clinician-to-clinician conversations on leadership, profitability, and building a sustainable career in dentistry.

Artificial intelligence is not coming to dentistry. It is already here. And it is quietly reshaping how patients search, think, and choose their dental providers.In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo explores one of the most important shifts facing dental practice owners today: the rise of AI as the new gatekeeper of patient decision-making. Search engines are evolving into answer engines. Patients form opinions before they visit your website. And zero-click results are changing the rules of dental marketing.Dr. Grillo breaks down the implications for private practices, groups, and emerging DSOs. He explains why traditional SEO is no longer sufficient, how AI-driven summaries influence trust, and why practices must rethink their digital authority to remain visible in an AI-powered healthcare landscape.You will learn:• Why “dentist near me” searches have surged over the last decade and why that trend is now evolving• How AI-generated answers are reducing website traffic and reshaping patient behavior• What zero-click search means for your new patient flow• Why authority and trust signals matter more than ever in healthcare• The dual-layer strategy every dental CEO should implement: education plus local conversion• How Gen Z and younger millennials are changing expectations around elective dentistryThis episode is not about hype. It is about strategy.If you are a dentist, practice owner, or dental executive who wants to stay competitive in an increasingly AI-driven marketplace, this conversation will help you think differently about visibility, credibility, and long-term positioning.Because in modern dentistry, it is not just about being found. It is about being trusted before the first click.Subscribe to CEO Chairside for strategic insights on leadership, profitability, and the future of dental practice growth with Dr. Greg Grillo.

How does a “regular” dentist build a thriving, people-first practice in just a few years? In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo talks with Dr. Karl McMillan of Honest Care Dental about his journey from treating underserved communities in Harlem, to practicing in Hawaii, to launching a fast-growing, comprehensive practice in Salem, New Hampshire.Dr. McMillan shares how authenticity, intentional patient experience, and a grounded philosophy of care shaped Honest Care Dental’s rapid growth. They discuss practice culture, systems, community connection, and what today’s patients really expect from a modern dentist.A must-listen for dentists who want real-world insight into building a successful practice rooted in trust and humanity.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly becoming part of everyday practice in dentistry. Many dentists are already using tools such as ChatGPT and other AI platforms to answer questions, clean up notes, analyze data, and make faster decisions.But here’s the problem: just because AI gives a good answer doesn’t mean it understands your practice, or that it was built for healthcare at all.In this solo episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo takes a deeper look at the growing use of generic AI in dentistry and the risks most practice owners don’t realize they’re taking. From HIPAA considerations and data privacy to AI tools being integrated directly into practice management systems, this conversation explores how good intentions can quietly lead to exposure.Dr. Grillo explains why consumer-grade AI tools are not designed for personalized dental expertise, why “removing patient names” doesn’t eliminate compliance risk, and why practices need to understand the difference between AI that simply answers questions and AI engineered to function as a true advisor in healthcare.This episode also explores emerging trends in dental AI, real-world operational risks, and why today's leadership should be intentional about the technology they allow into their practice.If you’re a dentist, practice owner, or dental leader navigating AI, or thinking about using it, this episode will help you slow down, ask better questions, and make smarter decisions before convenience creates consequences.Subscribe to CEO Chairside for thoughtful conversations on leadership, profitability, technology, and what it really takes to run a successful dental practice in a rapidly changing world.

What actually drives sustainable growth in a dental practice?Not hacks. Not trends. And not more chaos.In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with Rachel Marks to unpack what real growth looks like from the inside out—through leadership, systems, and execution that actually work in the day-to-day reality of dentistry.Rachel brings a rare depth of hands-on experience. She began her career in dentistry at age 16, went on to help lead a 19-office group practice, trained more than 500 dental teams, and served as a founding team member and Chief Growth Officer at Swiss Monkey. Her perspective is grounded, practical, and shaped by years spent in real dental offices—not theory.Together, Dr. Grillo and Rachel explore what separates thriving practices from those that feel perpetually busy but stuck. They discuss why marketing alone doesn’t create growth, where most practices unknowingly leak profit, how leadership and operations must align, and what high-performing teams consistently do differently.This conversation marks Rachel’s introduction as a new member of the Method Pro team and highlights why her operations-first lens pairs naturally with Dr. Grillo’s dentist-coach approach. It’s an honest, insightful discussion for practice owners, office managers, and leaders who want clarity instead of complexity.If you’re navigating growth, team dynamics, or the pressure of scaling a dental practice, this episode will resonate.Subscribe to CEO Chairside for real conversations about leadership, profitability, and what it actually takes to build a practice that works—for patients, teams, and doctors alike.

In this year-end reflection, Dr Greg Grillo looks beyond production and collections to explore what dentistry really taught us over the past twelve months. He highlights the quiet shifts in patient behavior, the growing influence of hygiene on practice growth, and the importance of leadership and robust systems in building a healthier, more resilient practice.Dr Grillo also speaks directly to the emotional side of dentistry. He discusses burnout, decision fatigue, and the weight many practice owners have carried in silence. He explains why time is the most valuable currency in modern practice management and encourages listeners to design a practice that truly supports their lives, health, and purpose.This episode offers clarity, grounded insight, and a calm reset for any dentist who wants next year to be more intentional, more profitable, and more sustainable.www.methodpro.com/drgrillo

In this CEO Chairside conversation, Dr. Greg Grillo talks with Braden Draggoo (Founder/CEO, Draggoo Financial)—named to Forbes’ Top 100 Financial Security Professionals, a multi-year MDRT qualifier, Chairman’s/Cabinet Council honoree, and New York Life’s #1 producer in 2025. But this episode isn’t about products; it’s about mindset, systems, and designing a life you actually want.Braden shares how growing up in a small town shaped his drive, why most professionals park money in stagnant buckets, and how to create velocity using liquidity, tax strategy, and relationships to build options sooner. You’ll hear practical reframes (like “Required Maximum Distribution”), a simple path from “busy” to balanced, and the seven zones (mindset, healing, connection, alignment, abundance, freedom, legacy) he uses to align wealth with well-being.You’ll learn:The #1 mindset block keeping dentists in the slow lane—and how to switch to wealth velocityWhy liquidity + tax planning can beat “set-and-forget” saving for real freedomHow to balance active income (the chair) with passive streams (without overwhelm)The power of relationship capital and community to multiply opportunitiesA 3-step starter plan to align money, time, and purpose—now, not “someday”If you’re ready to grow smarter, not just busier, this episode gives you the playbook to turn success into freedom.Resources & Links:• Connect with Braden: Draggoo Financial | Prosperity Zone• Connect with Dr. Greg / Method Pro

Can dentists truly have work-life balance — or is it just another myth we tell ourselves? In this powerful solo episode, Dr. Greg Grillo, dental coach and host of CEO Chairside, uncovers the truth behind burnout, stress, and fulfillment in today’s dental profession.Drawing from over 28 years in practice, Greg reveals how modern dentistry’s pace, patient demands, and business pressures have made balance harder than ever — and what it really takes to regain control of your time, energy, and purpose.You’ll discover:Why traditional ideas of work-life balance don’t work for dentistsReal stories and data on dental burnout and emotional fatigueA new framework for building a thriving dental career and a fulfilling lifeWhether you’re a new dentist seeking direction or a seasoned owner fighting fatigue, this episode offers practical insights and mindset shifts to help you find peace, purpose, and profitability in dentistry again.

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with Dr. Chris Dorow, President of the Washington State Dental Association, for a candid look at one of the most critical battles in dentistry today: Fairness, access, and the future of private practice.From running the only private dental practice in rural Othello, Washington, to leading a statewide reform effort to “Fix Dental Benefits,” Dr. Dorow brings real-world insight into what’s threatening the foundation of dentistry—and how organized leadership can drive meaningful change.You’ll hear powerful lessons on staffing challenges, insurance reform, and the rising tension between patient care and corporate systems. More importantly, Dr. Dorow shares what every dentist—regardless of their practice location—needs to understand about advocacy, innovation, and preparing for the next decade of dentistry.If you care about the future of your profession, this conversation is a must-listen.

Corporate dentistry isn’t evil, but it’s changing the game faster than most private practices realize. In this no-holds-barred episode, Dr. Greg Grillo sounds the alarm on how DSOs are reshaping patient expectations, marketing strategies, and the business model of modern dentistry.From centralized call centers to billion-dollar private equity backing, DSOs are rewriting the rules, and too many independents are still playing by the old playbook. Greg unpacks the data behind the DSO wave, shares real stories from the field, and lays out what independent dentists must do now to stay relevant and profitable.This isn’t fear-mongering; it’s a wake-up call for every dentist who wants to protect their autonomy, evolve their systems, and compete with confidence in a corporate-driven market.Key Takeaways:The real reason DSOs are winning (and it’s not clinical quality)Why patient expectations are shifting faster than most realizeHow to build systems, marketing, and leadership that scale — even as a solo or small group practiceWhy authenticity and agility are the independent dentist’s greatest competitive advantage

Staffing has evolved into one of dentistry’s most significant challenges, but the future holds opportunities behind today's challenges.In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo sits down with Christine Sison, CEO and founder of Swiss Monkey, to explore how virtual staffing transforms the way innovative dental practices operate. With her Harvard background and experience at the crossroads of healthcare, business, and technology, Christine brings a critical perspective on the direction of our dental workforce. Every dentist needs to tune into this trend.Greg and Christine also share stories from their Practice Journey Workshop across Hawaii, and then dive into critical insights every dentist should hear:How generational shifts and post-pandemic dynamics are reshaping staffingWhy practices need to rethink what work gets done virtually vs. in-office. The role technology plays in creating hybrid teams that actually thrive and complement each otherWhat’s coming next for dental owners, and how to “future-proof” your practiceIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by staffing volatility, this conversation offers fresh solutions and a look at what’s next for dentistry. Listen now and discover how to build a more innovative and resilient team that still delivers the highest level of patient care.Learn more about Swiss Monkey at www.swissmonkey.ioContact Dr. Grillo at www.methodpro.com/drgrillo

Google just dropped a major update that changes the game for how ranking data is collected, and dental practices will feel the impact. In this special edition of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo breaks down why Google quietly shut down a key tool that SEO platforms (and even ChatGPT) used to pull ranking results, and how this ripple effect could disrupt your marketing insights.More importantly, Dr. Greg shares what this move tells us about Google’s strategy, the future of AI in search, and how practice owners can protect their visibility online. Whether you’re running ads, tracking SEO performance, or relying on agencies, this update is a wake-up call to rethink your digital strategy.You’ll learn:What exactly changed in September, and why it mattersHow this affects dental SEO tracking tools and agenciesGoogle’s bigger play against AI and what it means for your practicePractical steps you can take right now to stay aheadDon’t miss this timely conversation; it could shape how you approach online growth in the months ahead.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly entering dental practices; from chatbots on your website to automated appointment reminders and insurance FAQs. But is this technology improving patient experience, or is it commoditizing the heart of dentistry?In this solo episode of CEO Chairside with Dr. Greg Grillo, we dive into how AI is reshaping the dental front desk. Dr. Grillo explores:Real stories of practices using AI for new patient scheduling and collectionsWhere AI adds profit and efficiency (after-hours booking, insurance, payments)The risks of over-promising, cold interactions, and damaging patient trustLessons from airlines, banking, and healthcare on the limits of automationHow to position AI as a digital assistant — not a replacement for your teamIf you’re a dental CEO, practice owner, or team leader, this episode will help you decide: will AI replace your front desk, or will it empower them to deliver an even better patient experience?

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo talks with Dr. Julie Kellogg about one of the most overlooked but important topics in dentistry: identity transition. Together, they explore what happens when a dentist begins to outgrow the traditional definition of their role and starts considering new paths, new responsibilities, and a broader sense of who they are.Dr. Kellogg shares her own experiences navigating change, redefining success, and finding a voice beyond clinical production. Dr. Grillo offers perspective on his own transition from full-time practice after nearly three decades. Their conversation highlights the emotional, professional, and leadership challenges that come with adopting a new identity in a field that often expects dentists to remain the same.Listeners will learn how storytelling helps make sense of major career transitions, why identity work matters for preventing burnout, and how dentists at any stage can design a more fulfilling, aligned professional life. This episode is especially valuable for dentists who feel stuck, are considering a transition, or want a fresh perspective on what a modern dental career can look like.

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo shares actionable strategies to boost your practice's profitability without extending your work hours or raising fees. Discover how small, strategic changes can lead to significant financial gains, as Dr. Grillo walks you through a 90-day framework designed to optimize efficiency and enhance your bottom line. Tune in to learn about quick wins, schedule efficiency, and leveraging your hygiene department for maximum impact. Don't miss out on these insights that can transform your practice's financial health!

In this conversation, Dr. Greg Grillo and one of the SEO industry's top strategists, Monty Hobson, delve into the intricacies of SEO in the dental industry. Explore how AI and wearables are revolutionizing local SEO, making proximity more critical than ever. Discover the groundbreaking concept of Search Everywhere Optimization, where your practice's visibility extends beyond traditional search engines to platforms like ChatGPT and wearables. Imagine a future where thinking-activated AI transforms patient interactions. This episode is packed with insights to future-proof your practice's growth and visibility. #AIinDentistry #FutureOfSEO #SearchEverywhere

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Greg Grillo dives into one of the most exciting and talked-about topics in dentistry today: AI. From diagnostics to patient communication, AI is reshaping how dental practices operate and deliver care. But with so many options on the market, how can dental professionals separate the hype from the real deal?Dr. Grillo discusses the practical uses of AI in dentistry, including tools for reading X-rays, improving patient communication, and even automating clinical notes. He also provides a realistic perspective on what's working now, what's still evolving, and the potential impact of AI on practice efficiency, profitability, and patient care.Whether you're considering integrating AI into your practice or just trying to stay ahead of the curve, this episode offers valuable insights and tips. Dr. Grillo shares his experience with AI tools and explains why dental professionals should approach this technology with both curiosity and caution.Tune in for a down-to-earth conversation on how AI is changing dentistry — and why it’s not just a trend, but the future of the profession.

In this episode of CEO Chairside, Dr. Amanda Tavoularis takes us behind the scenes of her evolution from early practice ownership to becoming a respected Kois mentor and systems-driven leader. She opens up about the pivotal moments that reshaped her approach to leadership, the first systems she implemented (and what she learned the hard way), and how her mindset shifted as her practice matured.You’ll hear how she balances strategy with trust, the metrics that matter most now, and the advice she wishes she could give her younger self. If you’re navigating your own growth as a dental leader—or looking to avoid common pitfalls—this episode is packed with clarity, candor, and real-world insight.Topics We Cover:The turning point that changed her leadership pathEarly systems and the surprising lessons they taught herEvolving beyond micromanagementHow Kois and other mentors shaped her growthPractice metrics that drive smarter decisionsThe one thing she waited too long to do (but now swears by)Whether you’re just starting out or refining a mature practice, Dr. Tavoularis’s journey will leave you inspired—and a little more prepared for what’s ahead.Let me know if you'd like a shorter version for social media or episode artwork.

In this short pilot episode, Dr. Greg Grillo welcomes you to CEO Chairside—a new kind of podcast for dentists who are ready to think beyond the operatory. Whether you're building a practice, leading a team, or planning for a future transition, this show explores the real stories, strategies, and challenges that shape the business side of dentistry.Dr. Grillo shares the why behind the podcast, what you can expect from each episode, and how this journey will help you grow as both a clinician and a CEO. Get ready for practical wisdom, candid conversations, and the kind of insight you wish you’d learned in dental school.👉 Tune in, subscribe, and take your seat at the CEO Chairside.