The Dental Economist Show
Hi, dental economists! I’m Mike Huffaker, and this is the Dental Economist Show, where you can join me and my guests in a conversation about the business of dentistry. Get ready to reconsider everything you think you know about growing your dental business as we exchange different ideas and meet at the intersection of profit and purpose.
Brian Colao on DSO Legal Frameworks and Growth Strategies
November 28, 2024 • 54 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Brian Colao, Director of the DSO Industry Group at Dykema. Join them as they explore the legal frameworks governing DSOs, implementation strategies for new technologies, and the future of dental service organizations in a changing market landscape.
Dustin Netral on Patient-Centric Dental Practice Management
November 21, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Dustin Netral, President and CEO of Vista Verde Dental Partners and Vice President of ADSO. Join them as they discuss innovative approaches to dental practice management, the evolution of patient care, and the importance of industry advocacy.
Lane Theriault on Empowering Doctors Through Partnership-Based DSO Models
November 14, 2024 • 37 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Lane Theriault, CEO and founder of Independence Dental Services, which has grown to over 50 affiliated practices in four years. Join them as they discuss Lane's journey from finance to dentistry, his success in building DSOs in both Canada and the US, and his unique approach to practice partnerships.
Geoff Woods on Strategic AI Implementation for Business Leaders
November 7, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Geoff Woods, founder of AI Leadership and author of The AI-Driven Leader. Join them as they discuss how leaders can strategically implement AI to enhance decision-making, drive growth, and build competitive advantages in their organizations.
Eric Giesecke on Strategies for Standardization and Centralization in Dental Groups
October 31, 2024 • 41 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Eric Giesecke, the CEO of Planet DDS. Join them as they discuss growth strategies, the evolving landscape of dental business dynamics, and M&A trends.
Demias Pegues on Optimizing Patient Engagement Strategies
October 24, 2024 • 41 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Demias Pegues, CEO at Key Dental Management Solutions. Join them as they discuss the importance of employee engagement, optimizing patient acquisition, and data-driven strategies for consistent dental business growth.
Dar Radfar on The Role of Dentists in Sleep Apnea Diagnosis and Treatment
October 17, 2024 • 35 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Dar Radfar, owner of 805 Dentistry and CEO at Rad Health Inc. Join them as they discuss the vital link between dentistry and sleep medicine, as well as the different types of sleep apnea, effective treatment options, and how incorporating these services can boost your dental business’ revenue while enhancing patient care.
Jeremy Krell on the Intersection of Dental Innovation and Investment
October 10, 2024 • 42 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Jeremy Krell, the Managing Partner of Revere Partners. Join them as they discuss the intersection of dental innovation and investment, from current trends in dental business staffing solutions, to the future of dental technology.
Brian Harris on Building Trust and Engagement in Cosmetic Dentistry
October 3, 2024 • 37 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Brian Harris, a leading cosmetic dentist and the creator of Smile Virtual. Join them as they discuss managing multiple dental businesses, specializing in cosmetic dentistry, and enhancing patient engagement.
Bryan Laskin on The Future of Patient Engagement in Dental Practices
September 26, 2024 • 36 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Bryan Laskin, the CEO and co-Founder of Toothapps. Join them as they discuss the intersection of dental practice management, technology, and patient care, with a focus on the importance of data accessibility and interoperability in dental businesses.
Dental Economist Show Bonus Episode: A Recap with Some of Our Insightful Guests Over the Past 9 Months
September 19, 2024 • 20 MIN
In this bonus episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker looks back at some of the insightful conversations he’s been having with a multitude of guests on the podcast. Listen on to hear Randa Seif, Chief Operating Officer at CaliDental, examine the benefits of adopting a community-centric business strategy, Brandon Robert Halcott, co-Founder of Seva Dental Team, discuss ways of creating profitability in a dental business, and much more!
Saam Zarrabi on Building a Branded Dental Experience
September 12, 2024 • 39 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Saam Zarrabi, co-founder of Rodeo Dental. Join them as they discuss the journey and growth of Rodeo Dental, the importance of culture and values, and the exciting opportunities for innovation in the dental business.
Matt Ornstein on the Future of Dental Brokerage
September 5, 2024 • 38 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker engages in a compelling discussion with Matt Ornstein, co-founder of Dental Pitch Brokerage and owner of Oak Dental Partners. Dive into a deep exploration of dental practice valuation, where Matt shares his expertise on EBITDA multiples, the impact of rising interest rates on DSOs, and the transformative role of technology in enhancing practice profitability. Gain valuable insights into strategic practice management and discover how innovation and financial acumen can drive growth in the dental industry.
Dee Fischer on Exploring Inefficiencies in the Dental Industry
August 29, 2024 • 34 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Dee Fischer, CEO of Fischer's Professional Group. Join them as they discuss dental business growth, the benefits of standardizing systems, the significance of efficient workflows, and the potential of AI and analytics in the industry.
Dan Hosler on Blending Private Dental Practices with Private Equity
August 22, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Dan Hosler, CEO and Co-Founder of Allied OMS. Join them as they discuss blending private dental businesses with private equity, providing better economic opportunities for doctors, and the importance of agility in a changing business landscape.
Douglas Brown and Kentucky Morrow on Driving Innovation in Dentistry
August 15, 2024 • 40 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Douglas Brown, the co-founder and managing partner of Dental Innovation Alliance (DIA), and Kentucky Morrow, the Principal of Investments at DIA. Join them as they discuss the growth and potential of the dental industry, the impact of technology on dental businesses, and their unique investment approach.
Emily Vanney on Blending Patient Care and Organizational Leadership
August 8, 2024 • 38 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Emily Vanney, Chief Operating and Clinical Officer at United Dental Partners. Join them as they discuss pediatric dentistry, blending patient care and organizational leadership, and how to recognize and retain talent in dental businesses.
Paul Kaiser on Technological Advancements in the Dental Industry
August 1, 2024 • 42 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker sits down with Paul Kaiser, CEO and board member of DentalXChange, at the Ignite Revenue Team Summit. Join them as they discuss the advancements made by DentalXChange in the dental industry and how they have scaled up their claim processing capabilities, as well as cybersecurity, innovative projects for dental businesses, and the potential for automation in revenue cycle management.
Emma Cifuentes on The Impact of Team Member Satisfaction on Dental Care
July 25, 2024 • 36 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Emma Cifuentes, Chief Operating Officer at Progressive Dental Management. Join them as they discuss the importance of team member satisfaction and its impact on patient care, the challenges of growth without private equity sponsorship and strategies for addressing them, and the significance of building relationships with doctors.
A. J. Peak on the Pros and Cons of Dental Service Organizations
July 18, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by A. J. Peak, the Founder and CEO of Peak Dental Services. Join them as they explore the pros and cons of dental service organizations, implementing technology in dental businesses, and the benefits of multi-specialty practices.
Scott Leune on Transforming Dentists' Careers Through Coaching
July 11, 2024 • 41 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Scott Leune, the founder and CEO of scottleune.com. Join them as they discuss how Scott and his company have helped over 20,000 dentists enhance their dental business operations through purchasing, marketing, and consulting. They also explore coaching programmes, profit maximization frameworks, and staying ahead in the industry.
Teresa Duncan on Advancing Dental Education
July 4, 2024 • 42 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Teresa Duncan, the owner and President of Odyssey Management. Join them as they highlight the need for more education in dental insurance, explore advancements in technology, and discuss all things dental business management.
Jen Buck on The Desire for Meaningful Work and Making an Impact
June 27, 2024 • 46 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Jen Buck, an acclaimed keynote speaker, leadership trainer, and COO of the One Hundred Angels Foundation. Join them as they discuss transformative leadership and training methods that can benefit dental organizations, the importance of clear communication and non-punishing feedback, and navigating generational differences in the workplace.
Eric Tobler on Continuous Learning in the Dental Industry
June 20, 2024 • 47 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Eric Tobler, the National Director of Clinical Affairs for Mortenson Dental Partners. Join them as they explore the importance of employee ownership, technology adoption, and creating a supportive culture in dental businesses.
Vilas Sastry on the Applications of Tele-Dentistry
June 13, 2024 • 27 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Vilas Sastry, the CEO of Teledentistry.com. Join them as they discuss the various applications and use cases of tele-dentistry, the importance of preventative dental care, and leadership strategies for dental businesses.
Gary Bird on Answering the ‘4 Key Questions’ in Dental Marketing
June 6, 2024 • 41 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Gary Bird, the founder of SMC National. Join them as they discuss how to convert leads, stand out in the marketplace, answer key patient questions effectively, and achieve lasting growth.
Improving Dental Practice Efficiency: Insights from Allison Hale, Emma Cifuentes, and Tom Barberio
June 4, 2024 • 51 MIN
In this roundtable episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Allison Hale, COO of Parks Orthodontics, Emma Cifuentes, COO of Progressive Dental Management, and Tom Barberio, CIO of Thinc Forward. Join them as they explore how AI, cloud-based software, and efficient revenue cycle management can improve efficiency and patient communication, and discuss tracking key performance indicators and merging data from multi-specialty practices.
Dr. Tarek Aly’s Insights on Merging the Clinical and Business Sides of Dentistry
May 30, 2024 • 40 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Dr. Tarek Aly, COO and Partner at Guardian Dentistry Partners. Join them as they discuss the merging of the clinical and business sides of dentistry, improving dental care access to underserved communities, and the future of dentistry’s positive outlook.
Dr. Aman Kaur’s Insights into Empowering Women in Dentistry
May 23, 2024 • 27 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Dr Aman Kaur, founder and president of Women in DSO. Join them as they discuss the challenges faced by women in the industry and the initiatives offered by Women in DSO to elevate women's profiles. Dr Aman also touches on mentorship and the impact of having more women in leadership positions.
Chelsea Myers’ Insights into Creating Open and Honest Conversations in the Workplace
May 16, 2024 • 39 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Chelsea Myers, Founder and CEO of Dental Life Coach. Join them as they discuss the importance of open and honest conversations in the workplace, giving people the benefit of the doubt, and practical advice on difficult conversations and preventing burnout.
Chris Salierno’s Insights into Balancing Profitability and Quality Healthcare in Dentistry
May 9, 2024 • 39 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Chris Salierno, Chief Dental Officer at Tend. Join them as they discuss creating a culture of improvement and accountability, the value of effective communication, and the delicate balance between profitability and quality healthcare.
Jan Jaffer on the Importance of Culture and Values When Maintaining a Strong Dental Team
May 2, 2024 • 44 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Jan Jaffer, CEO of TREC Dental. Join them as they discuss the importance of culture, different approaches to growth, prioritizing patient care, and the future of dentistry.
Dr. Sulman Ahmed on Why Putting People First is The Key to Success in Dentistry
April 25, 2024 • 41 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Dr. Sulman Ahmed, the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of DECA Dental. Join them as they explore patient-centered approaches, the value of calculated risks, and the key principles behind the success of Dr. Sulman's dental business.
The Importance of Effective Communication in Dentistry: A Conversation with Dr. Shahin Safarian
April 18, 2024 • 36 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Dr. Shahin Safarian, the founder and CEO of Lovebites Dental. Join them as they discuss the importance of simplifying communication with patients, building a robust sales funnel, and taking a patient-centered approach in the dental industry.
The Three Ps: The Importance of Patient, Parent, and Practice in the Dental Industry with Ray Caruso
April 11, 2024 • 49 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Ray Caruso, the CEO of Lone Peak Dental Group. Join them as they discuss the best hiring practices, aligning incentives, setting clear expectations, and prioritizing patient needs.
The Impact of Authentic Engagement and Effective Communication in Dental Sales with the Planet DDS Sales Team
April 4, 2024 • 40 MIN
In this special edition episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is live from Waikiki, Hawaii, and is joined by a panel of guests from the Planet DDS sales team. Join them as they explore their experiences in the industry, where they see dentistry going in the future, and why they love their work.
5 Game-Changing KPIs with Lorri Detrick: Without These, You Can Forget About Success in the Dental Care Industry!
March 28, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Lorri Detrick, the President and COO of Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry. Join them as they explore the integration of medical and dental insurance, the importance of culture in the workplace, and the value of data and technology in dental practices.
Meeting Consumer Expectations in Dentistry with Melissa Turner, Senior Executive Consultant at Cellerant Consulting Group
March 21, 2024 • 43 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Melissa Turner, Senior Executive Consultant and Chief Hygiene Officer at Cellerant Consulting Group. Join them as they discuss consumer expectations, effective marketing strategies, and the connection between oral and overall health, as well as the significance of inclusivity in dentistry's future.
Creating a Doctor-Centric Practice Model with Kerry Straine, Founder and President of Straine Dental Management
March 14, 2024 • 35 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Kerry Straine, Founder and President of Straine Dental Management. Join them as they explore creating a doctor-centric practice model, the importance of leveraging advanced technology to drive growth, and the importance of financial planning and data analysis.
Implementing a Smooth Succession Plan in Dental Practices with Ryan McCostlin, Founder and CEO of Tailwater
March 7, 2024 • 35 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Ryan McCostlin, Founder and CEO of Tailwater. Join them as they discuss prioritizing patient care over financial decisions, creating a positive culture within practices, and key performance indicators used to assess success.
Preventing Embezzlement in Dental Practices with David Harris, Founder and CEO of Prosperident
February 29, 2024 • 42 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by David Harris, Founder and CEO of Prosperident. Join them as they discuss the prevalence of embezzlement in dental practices and share insights on how dentists can protect themselves. David covers topics such as the importance of hiring the right people, conducting thorough background checks, and implementing software systems with strong audit trail capabilities.
Creating a Winning Culture in Dentistry with Kristi Casey of Rock Dental Brands
February 22, 2024 • 50 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Kristi Casey, CEO and COO of Rock Dental Brands. Tune in as they discuss how to build winning teams, emphasize the importance of setting big goals, and explore the challenges of leading at scale. Kristi also shares insights into growth, patient acquisition, and marketing strategy.
Maximizing Patient Engagement in Dental Practices with Ben Walling, CTO of Sage Dental
February 15, 2024 • 47 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Ben Walling, Senior Vice President and CTO at Sage Dental. Join them as they explore the challenges and opportunities of implementing technology in the dental industry, how to balance short-term and long-term value, and insights into driving sustainable growth.
Harnessing Technology for Dental Practice Management with Brandon Robert Halcott of Seva Dental Team
February 8, 2024 • 45 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Brandon Robert Halcott, Co-Founder of Seva Dental Team. Join them as they explore ways of creating profitability in a dental business, the importance of technology, and the valuable lessons Brandon has learned from his years in the field.
The Role of DSOs in Enhancing Patient Care with Rob Kolts of Premier Care Dental Management
February 1, 2024 • 38 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Rob Kolts, Senior Vice President of Clinical Affairs at Premier Care Dental Management. Join them as they discuss empowering dental offices to focus on patient care, the integration of new technology in dentistry, and the changing reputation of DSOs.
Building Trust and Relationships in the Healthcare Industry with Jon Fidler of Fidler and Associates
January 25, 2024 • 45 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Jon Fidler, the Founder and CEO of Fidler and Associates. Join them as they explore the changing expectations of healthcare professionals, the importance of transparency in building relationships, and how to evaluate candidates for success.
Aligning Technology with Dental Business Needs with Will Alexander of Benevis
January 18, 2024 • 26 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Will Alexander, Senior Vice President of Enterprise Operations & CIO at Benevis. Join them as they discuss how to minimize friction for both patients and practitioners through the adoption of AI in dental call centers, explain how to navigate the evolution of call centers in a post-pandemic world, and explore the importance of flexibility within IT leadership.
Achieving Operational Excellence with Randa Seif, COO of CaliDental
January 11, 2024 • 31 MIN
In this episode of The Dental Economist Show, host Mike Huffaker is joined by Randa Seif, Chief Operating Officer at CaliDental and an experienced leader in the financial field. Join them as they discuss how to successfully leverage automation and centralization in aid of patient care, explore the current staffing challenges the dentistry industry faces, and examine the benefits of adopting a community-centric business strategy that can lead to greater growth.
An Introduction to The Dental Economist Show with Mike Huffaker!
January 9, 2024 • 10 MIN
Mike Huffaker talks about their goals for The Dental Economist Show, and what they want to offer you, our audience!