PODCAST · health
The Authentic Dentist
by Allison House DMD & Shawn Zajas
Welcome to the Authentic Dentist Podcast.Join Dr. Allison House of House Dental in Scottsdale and Shawn Zajas, Founder of Zana… a company helping Dentists extend their Care Beyond the Chair, as they lead dentists deeper along the journey of authenticity – to reach greater fulfillment in their professional lives and to deliver remarkable patient experiences. At the core of the authentic dentist is the belief that the answer to the current challenges in dentistry is dentists discovering that their greatest asset and point of differentiation is their personal brand – and that forming that brand out of their authentic selves is the best strategy for success in dentistry today.To join Allison and Shawn on this journey, hit the subscribe button to never miss an episode. Here’s to your success… Express yourself fully. Live authentic.
Episodes
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115 › The PPO Math Many Dentists Never Run
Is a PPO plan quietly costing your practice money? Dr. Allison House explains how her son, a healthcare actuary, finds out. In Episode 115 of The Authentic Dentist, Shawn Zajas sits down with Dr. Allison House to talk about the insurance contracts many practices feel stuck on, and whether those...
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114 › You Gave Everything to Your Patients. What's Left for Your Family?
You give your best to every patient in the chair. So what is left for the people waiting for you at home? In Episode 114 of The Authentic Dentist, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas take on the question most dentists carry quietly on the drive home. Dentistry trains you to switch off your own…
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113 › The Case Against 100 New Patients a Month
Most dentists inherit one model. See more patients. Add more operatories. Push production higher. Dr. Allison House ran inside that model across seven practices before she opened her own. Then she walked away from it on purpose. In Episode 113 of The Authentic Dentist podcast, Dr. Allison House…
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112 › Why Your Team Drags Its Feet on AI (And How to Fix It
AI sits in every dental conversation right now. The question has shifted. It is no longer about what AI does. It is about whether your practice adopts it, at what speed, and what happens to your team when you do. Shawn opens with a story about their friend Adrian, who brought an AI content idea…
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111 › Do You Hate Your Patients? The Question No Dentist Wants to Answer Out Loud
🎯 Dentist incomes dropped $40,000 since 2010. One thriving Comfort Dental doctor told Shawn Zajas, "I hate patients." If you have ever driven home wondering how much longer you have left in you, this episode names what most dentists never say out loud. Shawn Zajas and Dr. Allison House sit down...
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110 › The Rocky Principle: Decide Who You Are, Then Do The Work
You’re one decision away. Not from the result. From becoming the person who earns the right to pursue it. In episode 110 of The Authentic Dentist Podcast, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas unpack the identity shift that precedes every real transformation in dentistry and in life. They draw from...
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109 › $350K in Debt and Nobody Told You About Insurance: The New Dentist Crisis
What are early-career dentists actually thinking? Not the polished conference version. The Reddit threads, the Dentaltown forums, the TikTok rants, and the private conversations that happen when nobody is performing. Shawn Zajas pulled real, unfiltered sentiment from across the internet and…
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108 › Your Practice Isn’t the Problem. Your Narrative Is.
Are you telling yourself a story about your practice that's slowly draining you? In this episode of The Authentic Dentist Podcast, Shawn Zajas and Dr. Allison House tackle the invisible force behind dental burnout: the narrative running in the background of your mind. Not the schedule. Not the...
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107 › When Bad Dentistry Is a Cry for Help
When Bad Dentistry Is a Cry for Help: Why Dental Professionals Need to Look Deeper A dentist posts about a colleague's terrible work on Facebook. Dozens of comments pile on. Dr. Allison House was the only one who asked a different question: What if that dentist is struggling? In this episode, Dr....
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106 › AI Is a Divine Tool. Are You Going to Lead It or Be Replaced By It?
Dr. Kianor Shah is doing something unprecedented. As founder of the Top 100 Doctors organization and the Doctor to Doctor movement, he has united over 1,100 healthcare professionals from 163 countries. His mission: ensure doctors lead the AI revolution rather than follow it. In this episode of…
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105 › Dental Practice Success in 2026: Stop Waiting for the Perfect Plan
Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas kick off 2026 with a raw conversation about what separates dentists who thrive from those who stall. After hosting two Olympic athletes over the holidays, Allison shares a key insight: elite performers surround themselves with coaches in every dimension of life....
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104 › The $100,000 Mistake That Made Me a Better Dentist
🎯 What happens when unlimited opportunity meets limited capacity? Dr. Allison House shares her $100K failure—and why she'd do it again. As 2025 wraps up, we're sitting in our new studio having the conversation every dental professional needs before stepping into the new year. This isn't your...
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103 › You're Only As Ethical As You Can Afford To Be: A Dentist's 44-Year Journey from Pegboards to AI with Dr Michael Thompson
What happens when a dentist who started with pegboards faces down stage four cancer and emerges with the wisdom of 44 years in practice? In this deeply moving episode, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas sit down with Dr. Michael Thompson, a pioneering Arizona dentist whose career spans from the...
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102 › Marketing Secrets Revealed: How to Generate New Patients Without Spending Thousands on Ads with Adrian Lefler
In this groundbreaking first in-studio episode of The Authentic Dentist Podcast, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas sit down with Adrian Lefler, founder of My Social Practice, to unpack the seismic shifts reshaping dental marketing and practice management. Adrian's journey into dentistry began...
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101 › Pricing Your Work–What Your Hourly Rate Really Means (And Why Most Dentists Get It Wrong)
🎯 Why discounting your dental services is actually stealing from your team—and the data-driven framework that transforms how you price with confidence and integrity. Ever feel like insurance companies control your fees? Struggle with pricing because you want to be "accessible"? Dr. Allison House...
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100 › The Legacy Question: Are You Writing a Story You're Proud to Tell?
What story are you writing that you'll be proud to tell your grandkids? In this milestone 100th episode, discover the decision-making framework that transforms how you approach every choice in your dental practice and life. After six years and 100 episodes, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas step...
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99 › Inside Dentistry's Best-Kept Secret: The Safety Net You Never Knew You Needed
Discover dentistry's best-kept secret: how 16 dentists created an unbreakable safety net that protects practices during crises—completely free. What happens when a dentist gets cancer mid-veneer case with six weeks of patients scheduled? Dr. Allison House reveals how her dental disability group...
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98 › The Truth About Dental Success (It's Not What You Think)
🎯 Why every dentist feels like a fraud despite years of education - and the authentic path forward that changes everything. If you've ever felt like an imposter despite your dental degree and clinical expertise, this vulnerable conversation will transform how you see yourself and your practice....
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97 › The $275,534 Wake-Up Call: Why Having It All Nearly Broke Me with Dr. Lauren Yasuda Rainey
In this transformative episode of The Authentic Dentist Podcast, Dr. Allison House sits down with Dr. Lauren Yasuda Rainey, a dentist who courageously stepped away from the traditional "successful" practice model to discover what authentic fulfillment actually looks like. Dr. Rainey shares her...
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96 › When Your Schedule Goes Empty: Turning Dental Downturns into Team-Building Gold
In this vulnerable and practical episode of The Authentic Dentist, Dr. Allison House shares her authentic response to economic downturns in dentistry, drawing from 25 years of practice experience. With characteristic honesty, she admits to the very human reaction of panic when schedules empty,...
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95 › 140 Dentists in One Building: How to Differentiate When Everyone Looks the Same with Dr. Brian Baliwas
Dr. Brian Baliwas shares his authentic journey from an unexpected path into dentistry to building a high-tech practice in one of America's most competitive dental markets. After discovering his passion for dentistry through shadowing experiences that revealed the profession's unique balance of...
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94 › 14 Million Views in One Night: The Toothpaste Video That Changed Everything with Dr Miles Madison
This powerful conversation with Dr. Miles Madison reveals the authentic journey of a periodontist who embraced innovation when it was considered "fringe" and transformed his practice through genuine connection and continuous learning. Dr. Madison's story embodies the podcast's core themes of...
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93 › From Awkward Desktop Videos to Million-Dollar Smiles: How Dr Brian Harris Disrupted His Own Industry
In this transformative episode of The Authentic Dentist Podcast, Dr. Allison House sits down with Dr. Brian Harris, a visionary cosmetic dentist who revolutionized his practice through authentic connection and innovative technology. Dr. Harris shares his remarkable journey from traditional…
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92 › Beyond the Chair: Finding Your Zone of Genius in Dentistry's Hidden Specialties with Dr. Ashley Clark
This episode of The Authentic Dentist explores a remarkable journey of professional transformation and authentic self-discovery. Dr. Ashley Clark shares her vulnerable path from nearly dropping out of dental school due to struggling with hand skills to becoming one of only 300 oral pathologists…
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91 › The Agreeableness Trap: Why Nice Leaders Finish Last
In this powerful episode of The Authentic Dentist podcast, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas tackle one of the most challenging aspects of authentic leadership: finding the courage to speak truth when it's uncomfortable. Drawing from Dr. House's real experiences confronting unethical practices in...
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90 › Beyond Perfect: Embracing Risk in Dentistry and Life
In this enlightening episode of The Authentic Dentist Podcast, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas explore the multifaceted nature of risk-taking throughout different life and career stages. They examine how our relationship with risk evolves over time—from the bold, physical risks of youth to the...
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89 › When Tragedy Strikes: Why Disability Insurance Matters for Dental Practitioners
In this emotionally powerful episode, Dr. Allison House shares the recent tragedy of a dental school classmate whose practice was destroyed in an accident that left him severely burned and hospitalized. This unfortunate event serves as a catalyst for an authentic and vulnerable conversation about...
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88 › 70,000 Hours: Why Authenticity is the Key to a Fulfilling Dental Career
In this thoughtful exploration of professional identity, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas revisit the foundational topic of authenticity in dental practice. They examine how cookie-cutter practice models and standardized expectations create a confining "box" that leads many practitioners to...
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87 › When Numbers Don't Add Up - Confronting Embezzlement in Dental Practices
In this episode of The Authentic Dentist podcast, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas discuss the challenging topic of embezzlement in dental practices. Dr. House shares her personal experience with a trusted employee who stole approximately $100,000 over an 18-month period. The conversation begins...
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86 › The Moral Obligation to Sell: Reframing Healthcare Communication
Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas, discuss the uncomfortable relationship many healthcare providers have with "sales" and why it's actually a moral obligation to effectively communicate treatment options to patients. She explores how dentists must overcome their aversion to being perceived as...
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85 › The New Rules of Dental Practice Branding: Stop Performing & Start Connecting
Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas explore the evolution of branding in dentistry, moving beyond traditional visual elements like logos to focus on authentic storytelling and human connection. They discuss how modern branding requires dentists to align their practice with their true identity…
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84 › Breaking Free from Insurance: Dr. Allison House’s Strategic Approach
In this episode, Shawn Zajas and Dr. Allison House dive deep into the challenges and strategies of transitioning away from dental insurance to a fee-for-service model. Drawing from years of experience, Dr House shares the critical steps to analyzing patient data, understanding financial...
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83 › The Hidden Crisis in Modern Dentistry: A Graduate's Half-Million Dollar Gamble
Dr. Allison House discusses the challenging financial landscape facing new dentists today, focusing on the staggering $500,000+ student debt burden from dental school tuition alone. She reveals why she advises her own children against entering dentistry and explores the limited career options for...
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82 › Healthcare's Breaking Point: When Insurance Denials Turn Deadly
In this sobering discussion, Dr. Allison House and Shawn examine the shocking murder of UnitedHealthcare's CEO and the unprecedented reaction from the medical community. The conversation delves into the deep-seated frustrations within the healthcare system, from insurance claim denials affecting...
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81 › Sacred Moments: The Lost Art of Meaningful Recognition
In this podcast episode, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas discuss the importance of acknowledging and celebrating significant moments in both personal and professional life. The conversation is sparked by the lack of celebration for Olivia Reeves' Olympic weightlifting gold medal win in Paris....
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80 › The Superhero Complex: Why High Achievers Burn Out (And How to Break the Cycle)
Are you ready to set some serious goals, break through your limits, and discover the power of self-awareness? Our latest episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss! Join Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas as they dive into: ✨ Setting clear, achievable goals for success ✨ Overcoming the...
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79 › Conception Before Belief: Breaking the Cycle That Blocks Your Breakthrough
🚨 Hey Dental Friends! New Episode Alert! We’ve got something super special for you today—a milestone episode of The Authentic Dentist podcast! 🎉 Join Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas as they celebrate 5 amazing years of growth, challenges, and some serious triumphs. Connect with Shawn Zajas…
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78 › The Words That Build Your Future: Why Language Is Your Secret Weapon
Hey everyone! Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zayas are back with Part 2 of our deep dive into the power of language on The Authentic Dentist Podcast. Ever wondered how the words you use can shape your reality? This episode is packed with more eye-opening insights and practical tips on transforming...
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77 › The Language That's Sabotaging Your Dental Success
Hey everyone! 🌟 Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas here, and we’ve got something truly transformative for you in our latest episode of The Authentic Dentist Podcast. This week, we’re diving deep into the power of language and how the words we choose can reshape our lives, beliefs, and even our...
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76 › The Success Paradox: Why Everyone's 'Crushing It' But Nobody's Happy
In this episode of The Authentic Dentist Podcast, Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas dive deep into the multifaceted concept of success. From personal stories about family and career to the importance of authenticity, this conversation will inspire you to redefine what success means in your life....
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75 › Exploring the AI Frontier: Dentistry and Beyond
Our 75th episode just dropped, and it's a must-listen! 🎙️ We're diving deep into the exciting world of AI, dentistry, and the future relationship between the two. Curious about how AI is revolutionizing dentistry and beyond? Want to explore the ethical and practical considerations of this...
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74 › The CE Trap: Why Most Dentists Fail to Implement What They Learn
Exciting News!A brand new episode of The Authentic Dentist podcast has just dropped! Join hosts Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas as they dive deep into the world of dental continuing education and the crucial steps needed for successful implementation. Don't miss out on this enlightening...
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73 › From Competence to Genius: The Zone Most Dentists Never Enter
Hey Dentists! 🎉 Episode 73 of The Authentic Dentist podcast has just dropped, and it's packed with insightful discussions on unlocking your zone of genius and embracing authenticity. Join Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas as they explore the transformative power of living in your true…
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72 › Unpacking Psychological Safety: Insights for Dentists in a Thought-Provoking Discussion
🎧 In this episode, we explore the power of creating a culture of psychological safety, where team members feel empowered to express themselves and innovate fearlessly. From challenging outdated beliefs to embracing scientific inquiry, we discuss actionable strategies for cultivating a mindset of...
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71 › A Journey to Authentic Success - Defining Your Path in Success
Join us as Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas delve into the world of dentistry, discussing the importance of defining success on your own terms. 💡 Get inspired and gain valuable insights into navigating your professional journey with authenticity and purpose. Connect with Shawn Zajas IG:...
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70 › Breaking the Comparison Trap: Navigating Authenticity in Dentistry and Life
Join us as we unpack the dangers of comparison, the power of authenticity, and how to navigate the twists and turns of life with a smile. Connect with Shawn Zajas IG: @zanadental Connect with Dr. Allison House IG: @housedental
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69 › Strengths Unleashed: Navigating Dentistry Through Personal Insight
Dive into the latest episode of the Authentic Dentist Podcast with Shawn Zajas and Dr. Allison House. Discover the impact of personality tests on dental practices, uncover actionable insights for effective leadership, and explore the psychology of pricing and decision-making in the industry....
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68 › From Overwhelm to Alignment: Transformative Insights on Goal Setting and Self-Care
🔥 Dive into the latest episode of the Authentic Dentist Podcast with Shawn Zajas and Dr. Allison House! This episode is all about transforming your life through intentional goal setting, self-care, and aligning your passions. Connect with Shawn Zajas IG: @zanadental Connect with Dr. Allison…
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67 › Investing in Excellence: Unpacking the Psychology of Hiring a Coach
In our latest podcast episode, of The Authentic Dentist podcast, join Dr. Allison House and Shawn Zajas as they dive into the high-stakes decision-making process of investing in a coaching program for her dental practice. Connect with Shawn Zajas IG: @zanadental Connect with Dr. Allison House IG:...
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66 › Dentistry and Narcissism: Cultivating Healthy Professionalism
Dive into the intriguing world of dentistry as Shawn and Dr. Allison House discuss "Narcissism in Dentistry" on the Authentic Dentist Podcast. Discover the delicate balance between confidence and empathy, and how it shapes success in the field. Connect with Shawn Zajas IG: @zanadental Connect…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to the Authentic Dentist Podcast.Join Dr. Allison House of House Dental in Scottsdale and Shawn Zajas, Founder of Zana… a company helping Dentists extend their Care Beyond the Chair, as they lead dentists deeper along the journey of authenticity – to reach greater fulfillment in their professional lives and to deliver remarkable patient experiences. At the core of the authentic dentist is the belief that the answer to the current challenges in dentistry is dentists discovering that their greatest asset and point of differentiation is their personal brand – and that forming that brand out of their authentic selves is the best strategy for success in dentistry today.To join Allison and Shawn on this journey, hit the subscribe button to never miss an episode. Here’s to your success… Express yourself fully. Live authentic.
HOSTED BY
Allison House DMD & Shawn Zajas
CATEGORIES
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Authentic Dentist have?
The Authentic Dentist currently has 115 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Authentic Dentist about?
Welcome to the Authentic Dentist Podcast.Join Dr. Allison House of House Dental in Scottsdale and Shawn Zajas, Founder of Zana… a company helping Dentists extend their Care Beyond the Chair, as they lead dentists deeper along the journey of authenticity – to reach greater fulfillment in their...
How often does The Authentic Dentist release new episodes?
The Authentic Dentist publishes regularly with 115 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Authentic Dentist?
You can listen to The Authentic Dentist on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Authentic Dentist?
The Authentic Dentist is created and hosted by Allison House DMD & Shawn Zajas.
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