Inside The Practice

In this episode, Sarah Boylan sits down with Michael Huynh and Sarah Dunn from Columbia Bank to explore the full financial journey of a dental practice - from launching a startup to navigating growth, and ultimately preparing for a successful sale. Together, they unpack what it really takes to move through each phase with intention, highlighting the financial decisions that can either set you up for long-term success or quietly hold you back.They break down key milestones across the lifecycle, share common pitfalls they see practice owners fall into, and offer practical guidance on what to prioritize at each stage. Whether you're just getting started, scaling your operations, or thinking ahead to an exit.In this episode, we cover:The key financial considerations when starting a dental practiceHow to manage cash flow and fuel sustainable growthSmart financing strategies and when to leverage themCommon mistakes that can limit profitability and practice valueWhat buyers look for, and how to position your practice for a successful sale This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode, Alan and Sarah sit down with industry expert Tessina Bullock, President of Verus Dental, to unpack one of the biggest challenges facing dental practices today.With years of experience advocating for dentists and helping practices improve profitability, Tessina shares practical, real-world insights on how to navigate—and push back against—insurance-driven limitations.In this episode, we cover:The biggest challenges dental practices face when dealing with insurance companiesHow insurance impacts profitability—and what you can do about itStrategies to regain control and reduce dependence on insuranceCommon mistakes practices make (and how to avoid them)Tips for strengthening revenue and building a more sustainable practiceWhat it really means to “take your power back” in today’s dental landscapeWhether you're feeling overwhelmed by insurance or ready to make a shift, this episode will leave you with actionable steps and a fresh perspective. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

The roles reverse in this episode of Inside the Practice as Sarah Boylan steps into the interviewer’s seat to put her co-host—and ePractice Manager CEO—Alan in the spotlight. In a candid and thoughtful conversation, Alan Hollander shares the story behind his path into dental consulting, from his early career experiences to the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership style and vision for the company.Listeners get an inside look at what dental consultants actually do beyond the buzzwords—how they help practices navigate growth, team dynamics, profitability, and long-term strategy. Alan breaks down the misconceptions about consulting, explains what makes a practice truly sustainable, and reflects on the deeper “why” that drives the work at ePractice Manager.Whether you’re a practice owner, team member, or simply curious about the business side of dentistry, this episode offers a transparent, behind-the-scenes perspective on building stronger, smarter, and more successful practices. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

This week, Alan and Sarah sit down with Doug Fettig, a dental business speaker, coach, CPA, and MBA whose path to helping dentists lead smarter, stronger practices didn’t exactly follow a straight line. From hitchhiking across Europe to advising dental practices across the country, Doug shares how his unconventional experiences shaped the way he thinks about leadership, risk, and long-term strategy.In this episode, Doug breaks down what it really means for dentists to think like CEOs—not just clinicians—covering mindset shifts, financial clarity, and why curiosity and adaptability matter more than perfection. Expect real talk, practical insights, and a few great stories along the way for anyone looking to grow a practice with intention and confidence. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

Join host Sarah Boylan as we look back on 2025, revisiting some of the moments that shaped the year. From standout conversations to memorable insights, this episode features highlights and clips from past episodes that made an impact. Together, we reflect on the ideas, lessons, and conversations that resonated most and helped define the year.Featured episodes and guests include:Elliot Tracy, CPA at SorrenPaul Auslander, President of SeaBridge Investment AdvisorsPaul Murphy, Chief Growth Officer of Black Talon SecurityBen Tuinei, Founder of Veritas Dental ResourcesAnthony Penketh, ePractice Manager, with over 15 years of experience in sales and marketing within the dental industry This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode, Alan and Sarah are joined by Ben Tuinei, Founder of Veritas Dental Resources, to unpack the realities of dental insurance and PPO contracts. With nearly 20 years of experience and having worked with thousands of dental practices, Ben brings a practical, no-nonsense perspective to navigating third-party payors.In this episode, Ben breaks down how PPO contracts really work, where practices are leaving money on the table, and what options exist beyond simply accepting unfavorable terms. He shares actionable strategies for negotiating, optimizing PPO participation, and strengthening practice revenue without compromising patient care.Key takeaways:How to evaluate whether PPO participation is actually benefiting your practiceCommon mistakes practices make when negotiating with payorsWhen renegotiation makes sense — and when it doesn’tStrategies to improve revenue while maintaining operational stabilityA must-listen for practice owners and managers looking to better understand their insurance landscape and make more informed financial decisions. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

This week on Inside the Practice, Alan and Sarah joined by Paul Auslander, President of SeaBridge Investment Advisors, to talk about smart financial planning for dentists. From managing debt and investments to planning for retirement and protecting your wealth, Paul shares practical strategies that dental professionals can use to secure their financial future.Key takeaways from this episode include:How dentists can effectively manage and grow their wealthStrategies for debt management and investment planningRetirement planning tips specific to dental professionalsProtecting your income and assets in a changing financial landscapeWhether you’re just starting your dental career or looking to optimize your existing finances, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you take control of your financial future. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode, Alan and Sarah talk with Paul Murphy, Chief Growth Officer of Black Talon Security, about the growing role of AI in dental practices and how to implement it safely. We cover what practices need to know to protect patients, maintain compliance, and use AI effectively. Key takeaways include:Top risks dental practices face with AIBest practices for governance and complianceProtecting patient data while using AIPractical tips for safe adoption without disrupting workflowLessons any practice can apply when integrating AI responsibly This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this short episode, Sarah Boylan sits down with Elliott M. Tracy, CPA, to break down recent tax changes affecting dental practices. They cover the most important updates from the Big Beautiful Bill and highlight what dentists and practice owners need to know as tax season approaches. Whether it’s deductions, credits, or planning strategies, Elliott shares practical insights to help your practice stay compliant and make the most of the new rules.Key Takeaways Include:Understanding the most impactful changes from the Big Beautiful BillStrategies for maximizing deductions and credits for your practiceTips for preparing your practice for a smooth tax seasonCommon pitfalls to avoid when filing under the new rules This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode, Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan sit down with Dr. Dominik Nischwitz—aka Dr. Dome—to explore the world of biological dentistry and why oral health is about much more than just teeth and gums. We discuss how the health of your mouth can impact your entire body, influencing everything from chronic inflammation to overall wellness. Dr. Dome shares his perspective on why rethinking dental care means looking at the bigger picture and treating the body as a connected system.We also dive into what a holistic approach to dentistry looks like in practice, from preventive care to innovative treatments that support overall health. Whether you’re curious about how your oral health affects your wellbeing or want practical tips for a more integrative approach to dental care, this conversation offers insights that can change the way you think about your smile—and your health. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

This week, Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan are joined by Anthony Penketh, a seasoned expert with over 15 years of experience in sales and marketing within the dental industry. Anthony shares actionable insights on how dental practices can differentiate themselves in a competitive market, build stronger relationships with patients, and drive sustainable growth. We dive into practical strategies for attracting new patients, increasing retention, leveraging digital marketing, and creating a memorable patient experience that keeps people coming back.Key Takeaways Include:Proven techniques to make your practice stand out in a crowded dental market.Strategies for building trust and long-term relationships with patients.Tips for effectively using social media and digital marketing to attract new patients.Approaches to improve patient retention and encourage referrals.Insights into aligning your team and practice culture to support growth initiatives. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode, Alan Hollander sits down with Paul Murphy, Chief Growth Officer at Black Talon Security, to discuss one of the most pressing issues facing dental practices today: cybersecurity.With the rise of AI and increasingly sophisticated cyber threats, protecting patient data has never been more critical. Paul shares expert insights on the current digital risk landscape, common vulnerabilities in dental practices, and practical steps every office can take to strengthen security.Whether you’re a practice owner, office manager, or part of the dental team, this conversation will give you the tools and awareness you need to keep your practice — and your patients — safe. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this special episode, Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan take a moment to pause and reflect on the journey so far. With 15 episodes under their belt, they revisit the standout moments, surprising takeaways, and powerful insights shared by their guests.From mindset shifts to real-world practice tips, they unpack the lessons that have resonated most—with themselves and their listeners. Whether you’re new to the podcast or have been following since the start, this episode is a thoughtful recap of the ideas shaping a more mindful, sustainable, and impactful approach to dentistry. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

What Does It Really Take to Heal the Whole Patient—Beyond the Teeth?In this episode of Inside The Practice, Allan Hollander and Sarah Boylan sit down with Dr. Jeffrey Gurian, a dentist, comedian, and advocate for mental wellness, to explore the intersection of dentistry, humor, and emotional well-being.Dr. Jeffrey L. Gurian is an American dentist, comedian, writer, motivational speaker, and media personality often described as a true “Renaissance Man.” His unique career bridges the worlds of cosmetic dentistry, comedy, healing, and personal developmentThey discuss the overlooked power of humor in easing dental anxiety, the role of empathy in creating a healing environment, and how mindset work can combat the emotional toll of the profession. Dr. Gurian also reveals his revolutionary energy-based techniques for treating TMJ and stress-related symptoms.For dentists and dental professionals facing burnout, stress, and emotional fatigue, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Gurian's message is simple yet profound: Healing goes beyond the chair. It’s about addressing the whole person and creating an emotional connection that lasts long after the appointment ends. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode of Inside the Practice, Alan Hollander speaks with Tom Burton co-founder of LeadSmart Technologies and author of The Revenue Zone, about the fundamental shift in how buyers make decisions and what that means for sales, forecasting, and long-term growth.Tom shares the story of how a moment of discomfort in a boardroom meeting pushed him to confront a hard truth: he couldn’t confidently forecast revenue. That experience launched a journey of research, reflection, and ultimately, the development of The Revenue Zone methodology, a framework designed to replace outdated sales funnels with a trust-driven, buyer-aligned process.Together, Alan and Tom explore:Why traditional funnels no longer match modern buyer behaviorHow to identify the three things your buyer must understand and the three beliefs they must hold before a decision is madeThe concept of the Yellow Brick Road—a mapped journey that guides prospects at their own pace toward confident decision-makingWhy clarity in messaging is essential, and how emotional belief often outweighs logical understandingHow to reduce ghosting, increase engagement, and align your entire team around a consistent, consultative approachWhether you're a dental practice owner, business leader, or someone responsible for growth, this episode offers practical strategies and timeless principles for earning trust, reducing risk, and increasing revenue with intention. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

Inside the Practice will welcome Dr. Hardeep Dhaliwal, MD, a standout leader in surgical dentistry and one of the rare professionals to achieve Quadruple Board Certification in General, Cosmetic, and Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. With advanced training in both the U.S. and Canada, Dr. Dhaliwal brings a global perspective and a strong dedication to mentorship.In this episode, Alan Hollander, Sarah Boylan, MBA and Dr. Hardeep Dhaliwal, MD will discuss how his dual-specialty background informs his surgical approach and commitment to patient-centered care. He’ll share what it took to become Quadruple Board Certified, why ongoing education matters more than ever, and how his study club continues to fuel clinical excellence in implant dentistry. He’ll also reflect on how partnering with ePM has supported his practice operations and offer real-world advice for dentists looking to grow in skill, mindset, and leadership. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this special episode of Inside the Practice, Sarah Boylan interviews Alan Hollander, CEO and founder of ePractice Manager. With 30+ years of experience and thousands of practices served, Alan shares the founding story, the systems that still work, and how leadership drives long-term success.Key Takeaways:Why systems, not hustle, create lasting growthWhat loyalty really looks like inside strong teamsHow ePractice Manager built a blueprint that’s still working in 2025What makes onboarding the foundation of team successHow AI is quietly transforming patient intake, not replacing people This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

“Education must be practical, profitable, and personal.” — Dr. Patrick LillisThe science? Solid. The implications? Huge.Dr. Patrick Lillis joins Inside the Practice to share his path from private practice to national lecturer. Known for his focus on full-mouth rehab and aesthetic dentistry, Dr. Lillis brings real-world insight to what today’s dental professionals are missing—and what they need most.What Drives Great Clinicians? Dr. Lillis reveals how teaching transformed his own clinical standards and why sharing knowledge is essential to staying sharp in dentistry.The New Reality for Dental Education With debt and time constraints dominating young dentists’ decisions, the future is hybrid. Online for access, in-person for relationships and depth.Diagnosis is the Missing Link Younger clinicians lack depth in diagnosis and treatment planning. Dr. Lillis explains why this skill is the foundation for clinical and business success.Mentorship is Everything Dentistry may be clinical, but success is personal. Lillis discusses how real mentorship—and showing up for others—shapes careers and the future of the field.Small, Smart, and Local is the Future Forget mega-conferences. Dr. Lillis is all in on small, specialist-led study groups where relationships, trust, and practical CE create lasting impact."Teeth are teeth. People are people. But it's the relationships that change everything." This episode is essential listening for every dentist committed to growth, excellence, and giving back. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode, Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan, MBA joined by Morgan Hamon, CPA and Managing Director at EisnerAmper, known for his ability to make complex tax and financial issues accessible to practice owners. With the economic landscape shifting and dental professionals facing rising costs and increasing pressure to make smart financial choices, Morgan offers practical insights from the front lines of dental accounting. From avoiding common financial missteps to understanding how to structure your practice for long-term success, this conversation brings clarity to the questions many dentists are asking.◼️ Dentists' Top Concerns in 2025: Economic uncertainty, hygiene pay, and financial anxiety.◼️ Avoiding Financial Mistakes: The most common pitfalls Morgan sees—and how to stay ahead of them.◼️ Tax Planning That Works: Deductions, credits, and how to think strategically about structuring your taxes.◼️ Hiring and Structuring Right: What to consider when bringing on associates—contractor vs. employee.◼️ Preparing for Big Costs: Advice on bonus depreciation and planning for large expenses like equipment upgrades or expansion. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

What happens when a seasoned hygienist gets a surprise Christmas gift that transforms her entire clinical approach? In this episode of Inside the Practice, host Sarah Boylan chats with Kassie Anderson, a dental hygienist and certified EMS trainer, about her journey into the world of EMS Systems and Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT). Their conversation offers a clear, engaging look into how new tools are reshaping the patient and provider experience in dental hygiene.What is GBT—and Why It MattersGBT, or Guided Biofilm Therapy, is a systematic approach to eliminating biofilm with precision and care. Kassie breaks it down into eight key steps, from patient assessment to recall recommendations, emphasizing a predictable and patient-friendly process that reduces discomfort while increasing efficacy.Airflow vs. Traditional PolishingKassie explains how airflow polishing, powered by EMS systems, offers superior access to hard-to-reach areas and a more comfortable experience. Unlike the gritty, noisy, and sometimes painful traditional methods, airflow uses warm water and fine erythritol powder to gently clean both supragingival and subgingival areas.Training That Makes a DifferenceWith over 50 dental offices trained, kassie highlights the need for proper education and support when implementing new systems. Her six-hour training includes theory and hands-on experience, ensuring that hygienists feel confident using the equipment and maintaining it properly.Patient Experience and EducationFrom disclosing agents that reveal hidden plaque to motivation sessions during the cleaning, GBT isn’t just about cleaning teeth, it's about educating patients. Kassie shares how this method builds trust and encourages better oral hygiene without the shame or discomfort.Investment and ValueAn EMS system setup costs around $16,000 per operatory, which includes equipment, training, and starter materials. While it’s a substantial investment, Kassie illustrates how this technology pays off through improved patient outcomes, increased comfort, and reduced burnout for hygienists.Kassie’s enthusiasm is infectious, and her experience shows that when clinical care is elevated through thoughtful innovation, everyone benefits patients, hygienists, and the practice itself. Whether you're a dentist considering the upgrade or a hygienist dreaming of modern tools, this episode offers valuable insights into why GBT might be your next best move. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In our latest episode of Inside the Practice, we sat down with Dr. Nathan Bryan — world-renowned biochemist, nitric oxide researcher, and a fearless disruptor in medicine and dentistry.What he shared will make you rethink your role as a dental professional:“Dentists are the most important people in healthcare today. They can either cure chronic disease — or contribute to it.”The science? Solid. The implications? Huge. Bryan breaks down exactly how poor oral care — and the very products we’ve been told are "safe" — are fueling inflammation, neurodegeneration, and even cardiovascular risk.Here’s what we uncovered:Oral health is the gateway to systemic health. It all starts with nitric oxide. When the oral microbiome is disrupted (by fluoride, mouthwash, or heavy metals), nitric oxide production plummets — and blood pressure, inflammation, and disease risk skyrocket. Common dental products are harming patients. Fluoride is an oxidant. Mouthwash kills the good bacteria that produce nitric oxide. The result? Elevated blood pressure, cognitive decline, and a suppressed immune system. The solution lies in purpose-driven practices. Dentists who understand physiology — not just procedures — can actually prevent disease. This shift isn’t just ethical. It’s a growth strategy. Restorative physiology > prescription drugs. According to Bryan, nearly every chronic illness comes down to this: your body is missing something it needs or it's overwhelmed with toxins. Remove the toxins. Replenish what’s missing. The body heals. Even better? Dr. Bryan is launching a microbiome-friendly oral care line that supports nitric oxide production and helps normalize blood pressure — naturally.“We're not here to manage disease. We're here to optimize health.”This is the episode every dentist needs to hear. Because if you're only focused on teeth, you're missing the real opportunity: to protect lives. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode of Inside The Practice, hosts Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan sit down with Dr. Barry Taylor, Executive Director of the Oregon Dental Association and longtime leader in organized dentistry. With decades of clinical and administrative experience, Dr. Taylor shares how dental associations continue to play a critical role in advocating for the profession, shaping policy, and building a strong, supportive community for dental professionals.1. Advocacy Isn't Optional—It's Essential Dr. Taylor emphasizes the importance of organized advocacy, especially around third-party payer issues like prompt payment laws and reimbursement parity with medical providers. Associations are the boots on the ground where individual practitioners simply can't be.2. Community Eases the Burden of Practice Stress The dental profession is often misunderstood for its stress levels. Taylor highlights how associations help reduce burnout and loneliness by creating spaces like the Oregon Dental Conference for meaningful peer-to-peer interaction and professional support.3. Saliva Testing and the Future of Oral-Systemic Integration The ADA’s approval of a new saliva testing code is a game-changer in integrating dentistry into broader healthcare. Taylor explains how associations not only pushed for this code but are now working to ensure reimbursement follows, enabling broader adoption of preventive services.4. Empowering the Entire Dental Team Oregon is pioneering new scopes for dental assistants, including administering anesthesia. Dr. Taylor advocates for expanded professional pathways and recognition across the team to support retention and career growth in dental practices.5. Participation Doesn't Mean Leadership—Just Show Up Engagement in state associations doesn't require taking on leadership roles. Taylor's message: Being a member, sharing your ideas, and supporting the mission is more than enough to contribute to meaningful change in the profession. Dr. Taylor’s message is clear: associations are not just about policies and conferences—they're about people, relationships, and the profession’s future. The more dentists plug into the community, the more we all benefit from shared advocacy, innovation, and support. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode of Inside the Practice, host Alan Hollander and co-host Sarah Boylan welcome expert consultant Wendy Reifer to discuss key strategies for optimizing dental practices. With decades of experience, Wendy shares actionable insights on staffing, leadership, and operational efficiency that help practices thrive.The Power of Continuous Recruitment Hiring isn’t just about filling immediate vacancies—successful practices are always on the lookout for great talent. By maintaining an active recruitment mindset, practices can avoid the stress of last-minute hires and improve overall team performance.Balancing Cross-Training with Specialization While having flexible team members is valuable, the most efficient practices ensure that employees become experts in their specific roles. This specialization allows for consistency, efficiency, and ultimately better patient care.Transforming Staff Training into a Systematic Process One of the biggest pitfalls in busy practices is neglecting proper training. A structured onboarding system, including a “stations” training approach, ensures new hires are integrated smoothly, reducing inefficiencies and long learning curves.Effective Meetings Drive Better Communication Many practices struggle with internal communication. Well-structured, purpose-driven meetings with clear agendas help align teams, eliminate misunderstandings, and ensure accountability without wasting valuable time.Leadership Through Proactive Problem-Solving Strong leadership isn’t about reacting to issues as they arise but implementing proactive systems to prevent them. Successful practice leaders create an environment where challenges are addressed through structured processes, allowing for consistent growth and improvement.A thriving dental practice isn’t just about great clinical skills—it requires strong leadership, a proactive hiring strategy, and efficient systems. Wendy’s insights highlight the importance of continuously refining operations to enhance patient care and practice success. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode of Inside The Practice, host Sarah Boylan sits down with Rick Shandy of BnK Construction, a dental office build-out specialist, to discuss the key steps dentists should take before signing a lease or starting a construction project. With over 425 dental spaces built, Rick shares his expertise on avoiding costly mistakes, planning efficiently, and making informed financial decisions.Involve a Dental Contractor EarlyBefore signing a lease, have a specialized contractor review the space. Hidden costs like outdated HVAC, inadequate water supply, and electrical capacity can lead to unexpected expenses.Understand Hard vs. Soft CostsConstruction costs go beyond flooring and walls. Permit fees, system development charges, and tenant improvements can add tens of thousands of dollars—budget accordingly.Why Permittable Plans MatterA dental equipment supplier’s layout is not a full construction plan. Work with professionals who ensure ADA compliance, municipal codes, and functional space design.Maximizing Tenant Improvement DollarsNegotiate for higher TI allowances with landlords, as dentists are highly desirable tenants. Ensure that funds are allocated efficiently to avoid unnecessary expenses.Common Pitfalls to AvoidSigning a lease without assessing true renovation costsUsing a general contractor without dental expertiseOverbuilding unnecessary features like extra sinks or cabinetryUnderestimating the timeline and permitting processBuilding a dental practice is a major investment, and making the right decisions from the start saves money, time, and stress. Surround yourself with the right experts, plan strategically, and don’t rush into a lease without understanding the full financial and construction scope. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode of Inside The Practice, hosts Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan sit down with Brandon Lee, Founder of Fist Bump, to discuss how dental practices can cut through marketing clutter and create messages that truly resonate.Brandon shares his "revenues through reputation" approach, focusing on authenticity, storytelling, and data-driven insights to attract the right patients and build trust.Stop Talking About Yourself—Focus on Your PatientsMost dental marketing fails because practices focus too much on what they do rather than what matters to their patients. Instead of saying, “We provide top-quality care,” ask, “How can we reduce patient anxiety and improve their experience?”Use Patient Insights to Shape Your MessagingWant to know what messaging will attract more patients? Ask them! Brandon suggests practices routinely ask patients questions like:Why did you choose our office?What would make your visits more enjoyable?What’s the number one thing you look for in a dentist?These answers provide real-time insights into what matters most to patients.Social Media Should Show Your Human SidePatients want to know who you are beyond the white coat. Brandon emphasizes using social media to highlight your team’s personality, values, and everyday moments—not just dental procedures.Share behind-the-scenes videosFeature patient stories (with permission)Show office culture and everyday momentsAuthentic engagement builds trust and helps practices stand out.If You Try to Market to Everyone, You Reach No OneOne of the biggest mistakes practices make is trying to appeal to everyone.Instead, Brandon advises focusing on your ideal patient profile—whether it’s families, professionals, or patients with dental anxiety—and tailoring messages specifically for them.Track the Right Metrics—Not Just Vanity NumbersMany practices track email open rates and social media likes, but those don’t always translate to new patients. Instead, focus on:Click-through rates on appointment offersThe number of new patient inquiries from marketing campaignsHow many website visitors actually book an appointmentMarketing isn’t about flashy ads—it’s about building trust and relationships. Whether through strategic messaging, patient conversations, or humanizing your brand on social media, connection is key to long-term growth.What’s one thing you will change in your marketing strategy after this episode? This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode of Inside the Practice, hosts Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan welcome Chris Verbiest, an industry expert with over 40 years of experience in dental risk management and insurance. Chris shares invaluable insights on protecting dental practices from lawsuits, mitigating HR disputes, and ensuring proper documentation to avoid costly mistakes.The Three Pillars of Risk ManagementChris highlights that effective risk management relies on communication, documentation, and informed consent. Poor documentation is often the weakest link in defending against patient claims and legal disputes."If It's Not in the Chart, It Didn’t Happen"Chris stresses the importance of detailed charting. Courts consider a well-documented chart as the most credible evidence in disputes, often outweighing verbal testimony from both the dentist and patient.Patient Expectations & Financial DisputesMany claims stem from misaligned expectations rather than malpractice. Dentists must clearly communicate treatment plans and avoid agreeing to unrealistic requests from patients, especially those based solely on budget concerns.HR Disputes & Employee DocumentationChris emphasizes the necessity of maintaining proper employee records. Terminations without proper documentation can lead to costly lawsuits, even in at-will employment states. Performance evaluations, attendance records, and disciplinary actions must be documented consistently.The Power of Informed ConsentInformed consent is critical for legal protection. Whether required by law or not, failure to document patient consent and treatment risks can leave a dentist vulnerable to lawsuits. The simple acronym P.A.R.Q. (Procedure, Alternatives, Risks, Questions) can streamline the process.Chris leaves us with a powerful message: Documentation isn’t just an administrative task—it’s a dentist’s best defense. By implementing structured risk management strategies, dental professionals can safeguard their practice from unnecessary legal and financial risks. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In this episode of Inside the Practice, hosts Alan Hollander sits down with Dr. Dan Kubikian, a board-certified periodontist and clinical professor, to discuss his unique approach to dental practice management and patient care. From creating a welcoming environment to leveraging innovative technology, Dr. Kubikian shares insights from his successful South Jersey-based practice.Empathy as a CornerstoneDr. Kubikian emphasizes the importance of understanding the patient's perspective. He tailors consultations to build trust and simplifies complex treatments into manageable steps, ensuring patients feel comfortable and informed.Patient-Centric Office DesignHis practice prioritizes patient comfort by creating an environment that feels far from a traditional dental office. Features like bird feeders, calming scents, and discreetly positioned dental tools contribute to a stress-free atmosphere.Investment in TechnologyEarly adoption of tools like cone beam scans and intraoral scanners enhances efficiency and accuracy. These investments streamline workflows, improve outcomes, and strengthen relationships with referring dentists.Building a Collaborative CultureDr. Kubikian fosters a positive workplace environment by supporting his staff's growth, encouraging camaraderie, and promoting transparency. This approach reduces turnover and boosts team morale.The Power of Study ClubsHis robust study club for general dentists and hygienists has become a vital platform for education and networking. These clubs enhance collaboration among practitioners and stimulate referrals, benefiting the entire dental ecosystem.Dr. Kubikian's insights highlight how combining empathy, innovation, and a collaborative mindset can transform a dental practice into a thriving, patient-centered business. By continuously learning and adapting, he demonstrates how to achieve clinical excellence while fostering meaningful relationships with staff, patients, and referring doctors.For more in-depth insights, be sure to catch the full episode. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter

In the debut episode of Inside the Practice, hosts Alan Hollander and Sarah Boylan, MBA sit down with Elliott M. Tracy, CPA , a leading expert in dental practice management. Elliott shares actionable insights on how dental professionals can build and sustain thriving practices, offering a blend of business acumen and practical advice.Effective Growth Strategies: Elliott discusses how dental practices can achieve sustainable growth by focusing on both patient retention and strategic marketing. He highlights the importance of understanding your target market, identifying patient needs, and providing a consistently high level of care. Key to growth, Elliott stresses, is understanding the balance between attracting new patients and retaining loyal ones through exceptional service and engagement.Building a Strong Team: A strong, cohesive team is essential to the success of any practice. Elliott shares his approach to fostering a positive office culture, where communication, collaboration, and mutual respect are at the forefront. He explains that hiring for both skill and cultural fit is crucial, as a unified team contributes to smoother operations and a better patient experience. Balancing Business and Clinical Care: Elliott offers practical advice on how dental professionals can balance delivering excellent clinical care while managing the business side of their practices. He emphasizes that it's not enough to be a skilled clinician; a successful practice also requires effective leadership, sound financial planning, and strategic decision-making. Elliott provides tips on time management, delegation, and setting clear business goals, allowing dentists to maintain high clinical standards without becoming overwhelmed by administrative duties.Marketing in a Competitive Space: Elliott provides insight into the evolving landscape of dental marketing, where digital platforms play a crucial role. He advises practices to take advantage of SEO, social media, and online reviews to build their brand and attract new patients. By combining traditional marketing methods with modern digital strategies, dental practices can reach and retain a wider audience. Elliott’s advice sets the foundation for both new and established dental practices to refine their approach to growth and management. The episode serves as a valuable resource for dental professionals looking to enhance their practice's operations while maintaining a focus on exceptional patient care. This Show is sponsored by ePractice ManagerCheck out our Live Show Events here: ePractice Manager EventsSubscribe to our Newsletter: Inside The Practice Newsletter