The Dental Practice Heroes Podcast With Dr. Paul Etchison

Overwhelmed in ownership? You can’t fix everything at once, but today you'll learn where to start. Get back to the fundamentals — vision, numbers, and leadership — with simple steps that will help you get organized and out of survival mode.The DPH Coaches share the seven metrics every owner should track, the checklists that keep you and your team accountable, and how to spend less time on tasks you don't enjoy. If you feel like you're drowning in problems or stuck in decision paralysis, this episode is for you!Learn how to:Navigate the mental toll of ownershipDefine your “why”Align your culture with your visionDo a “stress autopsy”Track important data in your practiceKeep your team accountableMake smarter decisions based on dataThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comGRAB THE FREE PLAYBOOK HERE - Discover 30 proven strategies top-performing dentists use to increase profits, cut clinical days, and finally enjoy the freedom they originally built their practice

Ever fantasized about bringing on an associate to handle all those difficult cases while you kick back and watch the profits roll in? That seductive vision—what I call "the associate illusion"—has lured countless practice owners into disappointment and financial stress.The harsh truth is that associates rarely outproduce the owner, and without proper systems in place, adding another doctor simply amplifies your practice's existing problems. It's like adding more rowers to a leaky boat; you're still taking on water, just with more people watching it happen. Many dentists are shocked to discover they actually made more money as associates than they do as owners after hiring their own associates.For the associate model to work effectively, four critical elements must align: cultural fit, longevity, production capability (minimum $650/hour), and case acceptance skills. The responsibility for creating this environment falls entirely on you as the owner. This means implementing scheduling t

You know what’s worse than not having an office manager? Having the wrong one. We all want that "perfect" hire, but perfect on paper rarely works in practice.This episode explores what really makes someone the right fit, whether you're promoting from within or hiring from the outside, and how to set them up for success in their new role. You'll learn three important things: the trade-offs of hiring internally vs. externally, what you need to do before handing over the reins, and how to keep your practice running smoothly — with or without a manager.Topics discussed in this episode:Why most outside hires failThe #1 onboarding mistakeHow to successfully promote internally vs. externallyHow to interview new office managersHow to “build your bench"This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comGRAB THE FREE PLAYBOOK HERE - Discover 30 proven strategies top-performing dentists use to increase profits, cut clinical days, and finally enjoy the freedom they origi

Feeling trapped on the dental treadmill? That plateau between $1-2 million in practice revenue isn't just common—it's a critical crossroads in your ownership journey.Dental practice owners typically hit this wall after establishing their core team (usually two hygienists, two assistants, and two front desk staff), then find themselves unable to push beyond despite working harder clinically. The fundamental problem isn't your clinical skills or work ethic—it's that you've reached the ceiling of what one dentist can physically produce while simultaneously trying to run a business.I experienced this firsthand when my practice hit $1.8 million back in 2015. Despite efficient systems and block scheduling, growth seemed impossible without clinical burnout. I was constantly trying to squeeze in one more same-day patient while lacking the energy to handle the essential business responsibilities. The breakthrough came when I realized that most dentists don't actually own a business—they h

Imagine losing a team member who's been with you for years. Beyond the obvious recruiting costs, you're facing a cascade of hidden consequences: the training burden on your remaining team, eroding morale as staff wonder if they should be looking elsewhere, and patients noticing unfamiliar faces at every visit. That's the reality of turnover, and it's far more costly than most dentists realize.Drawing from my own practice experience—nine years of remarkable stability followed by a challenging period of departures after COVID—I've discovered that reducing turnover doesn't require complex systems or extravagant perks. It comes down to three fundamental principles that are surprisingly easy to implement but transformative in their impact.Recognition sits at the heart of retention. When I committed to giving each team member two specific compliments weekly (what I call "filling buckets"), I was shocked to discover how many quiet contributors I'd been overlooking. Creati

Not everyone should be a leader. Not even your star employee. The DPH Coaches learned this lesson the hard way, and this episode unpacks what can happen when you put the wrong person in charge. You'll hear how to be proactive and get the right people in the right roles, the signs you may have promoted the wrong person, and why an outside hire might be the best move. Leadership is too important to get wrong, so don’t miss this one!Topics discussed in this episode:Early signs Dr. Henry’s new manager wasn't a leaderWhat actually makes a good leaderInternal hires vs. external hiresWhy internal promotions don’t always workHow respect is earned in a practiceThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comJoin Etch, Steve, Henry, and 14 other growth minded practice owners at this exclusive beachfront masterminding opportunity November 7 and 8 in Destin Florida.  Apply by setting up a strategy call HERE Use the same marketing company as Dr. Etch!Get your free demo with Rele

The sinking feeling of spotting a one-star review for your dental practice is something most of us know all too well. That pit in your stomach, the immediate defensiveness, the late-night rumination—it's a universal experience for dental professionals who pour their hearts into patient care. But what if everything we believe about the impact of negative reviews is wrong?This eye-opening episode challenges conventional wisdom about online reviews by examining what actually happens when businesses face public backlash. Remember when everyone swore they'd never fly United Airlines again after the Dr. David Dao incident in 2017? The outrage was deafening—yet United's revenue actually increased that year. This surprising case study reveals a fundamental truth about consumer behavior: people care far more about their own experiences than someone else's story. Your patients judge you based on how you treat them, not on a stranger's angry review.We dive deep into practical strategies for hand

Ever wonder why certain dental practice owners effortlessly navigate challenges while others remain perpetually stuck? The answer isn't superior intelligence or working harder—it's a specific mindset that separates extraordinary dental entrepreneurs from the rest.Through years of coaching dentists, I've identified three crucial characteristics that define the most successful practice owners. First, they absolutely refuse to live in ambiguity. While average owners accept problems as "just how things are," exceptional leaders view uncertainty as unacceptable. They embody the principle that those with the highest standards should lead, refusing to tolerate persistent issues or knowledge gaps. When faced with burnout or inefficiency, they don't resign themselves to it—they methodically find solutions.Second, successful dentists continuously ask bigger, more ambitious questions throughout their careers. Their inquiries evolve from basic operational concerns to optimization challenges

Ever wonder why you're constantly busy but your practice isn't growing? The answer lies in understanding the critical difference between maintenance work and true business building.As dental practice owners, we often mistake activity for productivity. We spend countless hours handling payroll, ordering supplies, managing schedules, and answering endless staff questions. These tasks give us the satisfaction of checking boxes, but they're merely keeping the lights on rather than creating growth or freedom. They're what I call "playing office" rather than working on your business.Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

We all have those patients that call and say they’re “sick” at the last minute. When it keeps happening, you’ve got to ask: is your cancellation policy working, or just being ignored?In this episode, the DPH coaches share how they reduce no-shows and last-minute cancellations, hold patients accountable, and get their team to follow through. From how much to charge (if anything) to getting patients to value your time, you’ll learn how to lower your cancellation rate without losing patients.Topics discussed in this episode:What your average cancellation rate should beHenry’s $50 deposit policyWhy patients no-show or cancel last minuteLanguage that reduces cancellationsTraining your team to enforce policiesHow to balance being understanding and staying firmThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comTake Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Read

What if you could dramatically improve your dental practice without working harder or longer hours? The secret lies in understanding the butterfly effect – how small, strategic changes create massive ripple effects throughout your practice.Most dentists make the same critical mistake: believing that increased production requires more patients, more procedures, or more associates. They chase these "big wins" while overlooking dozens of small levers hiding in plain sight – levers that could multiply profitability with minimal effort.Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

What if you could double or even triple your dental practice's profitability without working more hours? The secret lies in understanding and optimizing your dollar-per-hour production.Most dentists unknowingly operate practices that generate around $300 for every 40 minutes of work when they could be making $1,500 in that same time frame. This profound difference doesn't just impact your income—it transforms every aspect of practice ownership, from stress levels to management decisions to work-life balance.Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Case acceptance often hinges on moments most dentists overlook. Do you follow-up with post-op patients? Does the front desk greet every patient? Is your office clean and welcoming?In this episode, we talk about the little things that improve patient experience and lead to more reviews, loyalty, and referrals. Tune in for creative ways to make your practice stand out and help your team provide consistent care!Topics discussed in this episode:Why patient experience mattersHow to make a good first impressionPhone etiquette and follow-up callsPatient gifts that are worth the moneyHow to keep your team accountableTips to get more five-star reviewsCreative, low-cost marketing strategiesThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comUse the same marketing company as Dr. Etch!Get your free demo with Relevance Marketing by Clicking Here Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and cre

Did you hire the wrong person… or is it your onboarding process?In this episode, learn how to figure out if it’s a hiring mistake or an onboarding issue, why coachability matters more than resumes, and what to do when your new hire isn’t meeting expectations. You'll hear about our own hiring mistakes and get tips for spotting red flags early, asking better interview questions, and knowing when it’s time to let someone go.Topics discussed in this episode:Why your office isn’t the right fit for everyoneQuestions to ask in interviewsInterview red flags to watch forHow to tell if candidates are coachableWhen to let someone goThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comTake Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Ready to get out of the operatory without leaving dentistry? If you’re mid-career and craving more, this episode will help you figure out your next move and how to get there.Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan of Simplify Dentistry shares his tips for simplifying your systems, meeting production goals, and avoiding the common traps that keep dentists stuck. Learn how to get out of that mid-career burnout and build a practice that supports the lifestyle you want!Topics discussed in this episode:Practice models for more flexibilityThe 3 core competencies in dentistryHow to simplify your practiceWhy you should embrace new technologyHow to find freedom and fulfillment in your careerLearn more about Simplify Dentistry:http://www.simplifydds.comThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comUse the same marketing company as Dr. Etch!Get your free demo with Relevance Marketing by Clicking Here Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money thro

The bridge you're walking across has missing planks. Every step feels uncertain, progress slows to a crawl, and you might even consider turning back. This perfectly captures what running a dental practice feels like when critical systems are missing or broken.Most dental practices struggle with five fundamental gaps: inadequate onboarding that never fully integrates team members into the culture; collections and financing systems that allow money to leak through cracks; chaotic scheduling that creates daily stress instead of predictable production; case acceptance approaches that focus solely on the dentist rather than leveraging the entire team; and leadership systems that fail to create accountability and coordination. The consequences manifest as constant frustration, team turnover, and profitability challenges.Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build

Taking over a practice is hard, but a full overhaul is even harder. In this episode, hear how Dr. Rhonda Kalasho transformed a hygiene-only dental office into a modern, multi-location practice and retained most of the original patient base.She shares how she pulled it off — from building trust with skeptical patients and getting case acceptance, to rebranding the practice and creating a team culture that supports her vision. Tune in to hear her take on female leadership, why delegation isn’t working for you (and how to fix it), and what it takes to grow a practice and a family!Topics discussed in this episode:The pros and cons of acquisitions vs. startupsBuilding trust with existing patientsMust-have technology in a modern practiceEstablishing yourself as an affordable luxury brandTruGlo’s competitive membership modelHow to hire and lead for a strong team cultureBalancing motherhood and entrepreneurshipChallenges and solutions in female leadershipText us your feedback! (please note: we cannot respond through

That dreaded, “I need to talk to you about something?” It’s a conversation no one looks forward to, but every owner has to deal with. Whether it's an underperforming employee or tension in the office, this episode will give you the tools to address issues that can make or break workplace culture.You’ll learn how to confront underperformance and team conflict head-on, prevent problems before they spiral, and get your team back on track. Plus, we also share a quick test to help you decide if it's time to let an employee go!Topics discussed in this episode:Why owners are part of the problemHow to address underperformance and employee complaintsThe do’s and don’ts of handling team conflictDr. Henry’s method for getting honest feedbackYour role as a leader in shaping team cultureHow to decide when to let someone goThe green, yellow, red performance frameworkText us your feedback! (please note: we cannot respond through this channel))Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more t

Have you ever noticed how some dental teams thrive even on the most challenging days? They laugh together, support each other, and somehow make even the toughest situations enjoyable. It's not magic—it's intentional leadership and genuine connection.The relationships within your dental team matter more than anything else—even more than compensation or perks. When team members genuinely enjoy each other's company, they create a resilient culture that pulls together during stressful times. As practice owner, you set the emotional tone that ripples through your entire organization. This doesn't mean faking positivity, but rather bringing authentic leadership that includes appropriate vulnerability.Text us your feedback! (please note: we cannot respond through this channel))Take Control of Your Practice and Your Life We help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams. Ready to build a practice that works for you

True leadership in dental practice means empowering your team through the right conversations rather than trying to be the answer person for everything. Mastering three key conversation types – vision, accountability, and problem-solving – can solve 95% of practice problems and prevent owner burnout.• Vision conversations connect daily tasks to meaningful patient outcomes and team benefits• Creating purpose helps team members understand their work impacts patients' overall health and quality of life• Accountability conversations establish clear expectations and maintain practice standards• "You will get what you tolerate" – addressing small issues prevents them from becoming destructive habits• Focus on specific behaviors rather than making assumptions about the person• Problem-solving conversations involve the team in finding solutions together• Collaborative approach increases buy-in and implementation success• Create psychological safety for team members to share ideas without fear• Recommen