Dental Business
This podcast is a community of dental professionals who share their knowledge, expertise and experience in order to provide value to you and your dental practice. Our topics will cover practice management, transitions, real estate, accounting, law, financial planning, dental product reviews, marketing and much more! We welcome you to visit us at (https://www.klassolutions.com) to learn more about how we can help you build your dream practice.
63. The Practice That Almost Failed: A Turnaround Story
This story shows how even a good dentist can run into serious trouble when the business side of the practice gets off track. Dr. Marcus was a strong clinician with loyal patients, but behind the scenes, his practice was struggling. Collections had stalled, his fee schedule was outdated, and communication with the team was not working the way it should. Over time, those issues started to pile up and put the practice in a tough financial spot.
The episode walks through the challenges he faced and how he turned things around. Once he got outside help and...
62. Understanding Your Dental Overhead: The Numbers You Must Know
This episode breaks down why understanding overhead is so important in a dental practice. We talk about how overhead is more than just a number or percentage. It includes everything from staff wages and supplies to lab bills and facility costs, and all of it affects how healthy and profitable a practice really is.
We also go over helpful benchmarks and practical tips doctors can use to keep their expenses under control and run a more efficient practice. One of the big points in this episode is the importance of doing a quarterly break-even analysis so practice...
61. From Associate to Owner
In this episode of the KLAS Solutions Dental Business Podcast, Phil Cole (CEO of KLAS Solutions) talks about one of the biggest moves in dentistry: going from being an associate to becoming a practice owner.
Phil shares real-world insight from helping dentists through practice transitions and breaks down what associates need to know before they buy a practice. They cover common mistakes, why understanding the business side of dentistry matters (especially since most of it is not taught in dental school), and what can go wrong when buyers rush the process.
They also talk about...
60. Dr. Ryan Brunworth Dental Story
The podcast delves into the multifaceted journey of Dr. Ryan Brunworth, a dentist with over two decades of experience, who shares both his triumphs and tribulations in the dental profession. Initially, Dr. Brunworth's career began with an acquisition of a dental practice shortly after his graduation from the University of Michigan. However, this rapid ascent was fraught with challenges, as he faced a steep learning curve in both clinical skills and business knowledge. He emphasizes the critical importance of mentorship and experience, suggesting that early-career dentists should seek guidance to navigate the complexities of practice ownership. His narrative reveals...
59. The Money Mistakes Most Dentists Make
The predominant focus of this discussion centers on the financial missteps frequently encountered by dental practice owners. I explain the five most significant financial mistakes that dentists commonly make, which often lead to suboptimal profitability despite apparent success. We commence with the critical issue of conflating personal and business finances, including tax inefficiencies and diminished financial visibility. Furthermore, I emphasize the necessity of distinguishing between cash flow and profit, as many practitioners find themselves surprised by their financial statements. I provide actionable solutions to rectify these issues, thereby advocating for a proactive and structured approach to financial management in...
58. Introducing Dental Business Podcast: New Tools, New Community, Bigger Mission
The Dental Business Podcast enters a new era with its rebranding, emphasizing a dual focus on clinical excellence and business proficiency. Understanding that the traditional dental curriculum often neglects essential business principles, we aim to provide our listeners with a comprehensive toolkit that encompasses financial management, effective marketing strategies, and operational efficiencies. The first episode articulates the motivations behind this transformation, highlighting the critical need for dentists to gain a thorough understanding of the business side of their practices. By sharing relevant stories from dental professionals who have successfully navigated the complexities of practice ownership, we provide valuable lessons...
57. Why Your Dentist Exit Plan is Doomed to Fail
Takeaways:
The procrastination penalty emphasizes the critical need for early planning in exit strategies.Valuation illusions can lead to unrealistic expectations about the worth of dental practices.Understanding tax implications is pivotal to maximizing the proceeds from a practice sale.The successor mirage highlights the dangers of informal transitions without binding agreements.The high income, low wealth paradox illustrates that high earnings do not guarantee financial security in retirement.Emotional anchors can inhibit dentists from effectively transitioning out of their practices.Let's discuss your Dental Practice Exit plan today: https://www.klassolutions.com
56. Partnerships and Group Practices - Growing Beyond Solo
Key Takeaways from your host Phil Cole, CEO of KLASSOLUTIONS
The podcast has officially rebranded from the Dental Education Podcast to the Dental Business Podcast to better align with its focus on business strategies for dental practice owners. The episode emphasizes the importance of partnerships in dentistry, highlighting how collaboration can lead to reduced workloads and improved work-life balance for practice owners. Listeners are encouraged to consider whether they are ready for a partnership by evaluating their current patient load and operational systems before taking that step. Critical elements for successful partnerships include shared core values, defined roles...55. The 25 Percent Profit Secret Your Dental Practice Is Missing
Got a busy schedule and thin margins? In this episode, I break down the simple math behind hitting 25% profit—and why most dental practices miss it. I’ll show you where money leaks, how to plug them fast, and the key habits that keep your numbers strong month after month.
What you’ll learn:
The 3 numbers that control profit (and how to track them weekly)A clear target for payroll, supplies, and overheadThe “leaky bucket” costs hiding in plain sightHow to price, schedule, and collect so cash actually sticksA quick checklist to move from 10–15% profit to 25%+54. The Empathy Problem - Balancing Emotion in Decision Making
In this episode of the KLAS Solutions Dental Education Podcast, we're talking about how to lead with heart and make clear business decisions. You care about your patients and your team—that’s a strength. But when empathy drives every call, it can lead to burnout, confusion, and lost profit. We'll walk you through simple ways to set fair boundaries, coach with clarity, and still show up as the caring leader your practice needs.
www.klassolutions.com
53. Cash Discounting Explained: Efficient Strategies for Your Dental Practice
In this episode, I break down cash discounting—what it is, how it’s different from surcharging, and how to set it up the right way in a dental office. Credit card fees keep rising, and most practices now run far more card volume than they did a decade ago. I’ll show you how to protect margins without hurting patient trust or payment flexibility.
52. Embracing Tech Tools to Streamline Your Practice and Save Time
Being the first in your family to become a dentist isn’t just an achievement—it’s a journey filled with unique challenges and triumphs. In this video, Phil Cole shares the real-life struggles and successes of first-generation dentists, offering insights and encouragement for anyone carving their own path in dentistry.
klassolutions.com
51. The Power of Being Known and Trusted
In this episode, we dive into why being truly known and trusted is the cornerstone of a thriving dental practice. We’ll share practical strategies to strengthen patient relationships, build credibility in your community, and create a practice culture where trust drives growth and long-term success.
klassolutions.com
50. Strategic Financial Planning for Dentists: Insights with Jennifer Lee
Strategic Financial Planning for Dentists: Insights with Jennifer Lee.
In this episode of the Solutions Dental Business Podcast, host Phil Cole discusses financial planning with Jennifer Lee, a seasoned financial advisor and founder of Modern Wealth, who has been helping dentists for nearly 30 years. They cover crucial topics such as tax sheltering, the importance of planning for retirement and an exit strategy, and how to replace income after the sale of a dental practice. Jennifer emphasizes the need for early financial planning, the benefits of having a comprehensive financial plan, and the role of disability and life...
49. Expanding Your Practice | Second Location Strategies That Work
Key Strategies for Successfully Expanding Your Dental Practice
In this episode of the KLAS Solutions Dental Education podcast, Phil Cole discusses the important considerations and strategic roadmap for dental practice owners contemplating opening a second location. Key points include assessing if your current practice is truly maxed out, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to effectively structure your team and systems to support expansion. Phil emphasizes the importance of basing decisions on data and creating a solid platform for growth, rather than succumbing to emotional impulses. Additionally, the podcast covers essential aspects like market demographics, competition analysis...
48. Case Acceptance: Commuicating Value to Your Patients
Ever have trouble getting patients to agree to the treatment they need? We talk about how to explain procedures and costs in a way that makes sense to patients and builds trust. By using a few simple communication tips, you’ll find more patients saying “yes” to the care they need – a win-win for them and your practice.
47. Path to Ownership Buying vs Starting a Practice
Buying vs. Starting a Dental Practice: Insights and Advice
In this episode of KLAS Solutions Dental Education Podcast, host Phil Cole addresses a common question from dentists: Should you buy an existing practice or start your own from scratch?
Phil explores the pros and cons of both options, sharing real-life examples and key considerations, including patient base, location, financials, active patient count, and staffing. He also highlights the importance of having a strong vision, comprehensive due diligence, marketing strategies, and clean financials when making this significant decision.
Listeners will gain valuable insights to...
46. Building Your Dream Dental Team
In this episode, we’ll talk about how to hire and keep a great team for your practice. We discuss ways to find the right people, build a positive office culture, and keep everyone motivated. By the end, you’ll have tips to become a stronger leader for your staff.
Books mentioned in the episode:
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni and The Servant Leader by James A. Autry
www.klassolutions.com
844-552-7100
45. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Private Equity with Joseph Lucido
We're taking a good look at what private equity is dentistry - the good, the bad, and the ugly. Whether you're thinking about selling, holding strong, or just trying to figure out what this is all about, this is the podcast for you!
Access dental marketing resources here: https://cleartolaunchdental.com/resources/
To learn more about Clear to Launch Dental Marketing, visit their website: https://cleartolaunchdental.com
Want to hear an episode on a specific topic? Email us at info@klassolutions.com.Thanks for listening!
www.klassolutions.com
44. The Importance of Compliance with Angela Simmons
Navigating OSHA, HIPAA, and doing risk assessments can feel overwhelming, but ignoring them is not an option. Today we have Angel Simmons, CEO of Simmons Safe, to break down things for us and give us actionable takeaways. She shares common mistakes, challenges, and other things you can do to keep your dental practice safe and in line with regulations.
About Simmons Safe: At Simmons Safe, we understand that a safe practice is a successful practice. But we also know from experience that complying with OSHA and HIPAA standards can be a time-consuming and complex process. We founded...
43. 10 Strategies to Increase Your Practice’s Sale Value
🎙️ Welcome to the Dental Education Podcast with KLAS Solutions! Hosted by Phil Cole, this episode is a must-listen for any dentist thinking about selling their practice—whether retirement is around the corner or years away.
🔹 Key Takeaways:
Start Planning Early – The biggest mistake dentists make is waiting too long to prepare for a transition. Ideally, planning should begin at least 3-5 years before selling to maximize value.Boost Patient Growth & Marketing – A steady influx of new patients (target: 30 per month per doctor) makes the practice more attractive to buyers and reduces their workload post-sale.Manage Financial Health & Overh...42. How Membership Plans Can Generate Revenue in Your Dental Practice
In today's episode, Phil Cole has a conversation with Jane Levy, Plan Forward's Co-Founder and Co-CEO.
Plan Forward is a company of dental experts who have developed a platform that puts you in control with cutting-edge software for dental offices specifically and designed to be a comprehensive dental membership plan solution.
Now you can work smarter with practice technology that connects into one communication and management platform for seamless patient care.
How can the Plan Forward Membership Solution help you run a more efficient, successful and client-focused practice?
It’s simple. The Pl...
41. Why Merchant Services are the Unsung Hero of a Seamless Patient Experience with Tim Ryan
In today's episode, we'll discuss:1. Why merchant services are the unsung hero of a seamless patient experience2. How outdated payment systems can create friction points that frustrate both you and the patient3. The impact of flexible payment options
We are so excited to be joined by Blueswipe's CEO and Founder, Tim Ryan!
www.klassolutions.com
40. Launching Your Own Dental Practice
In today's episode, Launching Your Own Dental Practice, we'll unpack the journey of transforming your dental career from being an employee to starting your dental practice from scratch.
Have a topic you'd love to learn about? Send us an email: info@klassolutions.com
To learn more, visit our website: www.klassolutions.com
Thank you for listening and sharing!
39. The Vital Role of a Business Coach for Solo Practitioners
KLAS Solutions isn't here to teach you dentistry - you've already mastered that. Instead, like a seasoned coach who helps shape raw talent into championship performance, we help transform skilled practitioners into successful practice owners. Whether you're looking to grow your practice, improve operations, or plan for the future, we provide the strategic guidance that turns potential into actual results.
Just as a great coach helps athletes see opportunities they might have missed and avoid pitfalls they might not have anticipated, we work alongside you to optimize every aspect of your...
38. Optimizing Schedules for Maximum Revenue in Dental Practices
In this episode of the Dental Education Podcast, host Phil Cole addresses the importance of scheduling optimization in dental practices. Inefficient scheduling can lead to significant revenue loss, with studies showing that dental practices may lose between $30,000 to $50,000 annually. Phil discusses cutting-edge scheduling strategies to maximize productivity, eliminate bottlenecks, and recommends top tools and software for efficient scheduling. He emphasizes the need for practices to have daily goals, utilize technology effectively, and continuously monitor key performance indicators (KPIs). By prioritizing strategic scheduling, using automated reminders, and maintaining proper communication protocols, dental practices can significantly enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and...
37. Making Confident Choices: Expert Advice for Dental Practice Buyers
In the KLAS Solutions Dental Education Podcast, host Phil Cole discusses crucial considerations for aspiring and current dentists looking to purchase a practice. He emphasizes the importance of having a buyer advocate by your side to guide through the entire acquisition process. Phil highlights the comprehensive buyer advocate program offered by KLAS Solutions, covering key components such as practice valuation, demographic analysis, financial assistance, due diligence, crafting a proper offer, transition planning, and business ownership coaching. The podcast provides in-depth insights and strategies to ensure informed decision-making and long-term success in running a dental practice.
Find out...
36. Real Life Case Studies with Daniel Cole
In today's episode, Daniel and Phil Cole of KLAS Solutions discuss things that can go wrong in a dental transition, things that can get misunderstood, all while giving you real life examples.
If you'd like to learn more about dental transitions, please visit our website!
www.klassolutions.com
35. Plan With the End in Mind with Steven Huskey and Brandon Wilson
In today's episode, we talk about why dental and medical professionals need assistance from a comprehensive financial planner. Phil is joined by Steven Huskey and Brandon Wilson from Blue Water Dental Advisors.
https://bluewaterdentaladvisors.com/
https://www.klassolutions.com/
34. Managing Your Financial Future Through Multiple Means with Dr. Rob Scranton
Dr. Rob Scranton teaches people how to use their current debts and expenses to grow their wealth outside of the traditional approaches like scrimping, saving, and denying themselves the lifestyle they want. He leverages his extensive background in accounting, finance, and his experience as a the former chief financial architect of a cutting-edge financial firm to offer a unique perspective on a highly effective financial strategy known as the Infinite Banking Concept, or IBC.
The reason the IBC concert is so effective is because it predates the IRS and the tax code, preventing the government from lawfully...
33. Build Your Team the Right Way with Dr. Mike Neal
In today's episode, Dr. Mike Neal talks about the biggest challenges medical and dental professionals face in staffing their practice, innovations in dental staff recruitment, practical tips for recruiting dental staff, and more!
Dr. Michael Neal is the Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Build My Team. He is a practicing Optometrist in private practice in rural Hawley, Pennsylvania.
He founded Build My Team to solve his own hiring struggles in his practice by modeling how companies like Disney and the Four Seasons hire.
The process worked so w...
32. A Complete Understanding of Dental Insurance Needs with Shawn Johnson
In today's episode, we address the following questions:
1. What should a dentist or doctor know when it comes to their insurance needs if they are starting a practice?
2. What should a doctor consider when it comes to disability or life insurance protection for themselves and their families?
3. What are the common types of retirement plans and associated benefits that a dentist or doctor business owner may consider installing for their practice?
Shawn Johnson, of Treloar & Heisel, specializes in working with Dentists and Physicians and provides comprehensive reviews in the following areas:<...
31. Navigating Partnership Transitions: 13 Essential Questions for Dental Practice Success
Welcome to Episode 31 of the KLAS Solutions Podcast! In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of partnership transitions in the dental industry.Â
Phil Cole explores the crucial questions you need to ask yourself and your potential partner to ensure that a partnership is the right move for your dental practice. From assessing compatibility to clarifying expectations, we cover the 13 essential questions that will guide you through this pivotal decision-making process.
Whether you're considering entering into a partnership for the first time or evaluating an existing one, this episode provides valuable insights and practical a...
30. Turn Your Empty Ops Into Revenue Producing Ops with CloudMedSpas
Discover how to turn idle space in your dental or orthodontic practice into a lucrative venture with CloudMedSpas' innovative model. Join Shannon Seeberan, VP of Business Development at CMS, in this insightful podcast. Learn about renting unused areas for Med Spa services, creating additional revenue without disrupting your practice. Find out how this model benefits both you and medical esthetics professionals, offering a unique opportunity for patient crossover and practice growth. Tune in now to maximize your practice's potential.
Schedule a meeting with Shannon here.
klassolutions.com
29. Marketing Stats Review
Today's podcast episode will review major stats that apply to many facets of marketing for dental practices.
If you have more questions, reach out to us via our website (www.klassolutions.com) or call us at 844-552-7100.
28. Real Lessons on Running a Dental Practice with Dr. Gary Holtzclaw
In today's episode, Dr. Gary Holtzclaw talks about his experience of owning a dental practice and his best advice for running a dental practice.
www.klassolutions.com
27. How to Find Balance in Living a Healthy Lifestyle with Laura Bloomquist
A dentist's own health significantly influences their ability to care for patients. Enhanced fitness levels and good eating habits often translate to improved focus, stamina, and overall vitality, allowing dentists to better serve their patients while reducing stress and fatigue during long hours.
By prioritizing their own health, dentists can elevate their professional performance, enhance patient care, and serve as beacons of wellness within their practice. This episode offers tips about how to find balance, stay consistent and live a healthy lifestyle with Laura Bloomquist.
Sample workout mentioned in the episode:
Full Body...
26. How Understanding Your Team’s Personality Profiles is Beneficial with Ryan Hill
In this episode of the KLAS Solutions podcast, we talk to our team and leadership coach, Ryan Hill, about personality profiles. Specifically, we talk about the benefits of the DiSC personality profile for the doctor and and their team. When the team understands each other and their patients better, this allows communication to be more effective and increase productivity. Patient care will also improve dramatically.
www.klassolutions.com
25. Managing Your Accounts Receivable with Tera Wilson
In today's episode, we discuss key factors on running a clean accounts receivable for your dental practice with our very own business and clinical coach, Tera Wilson.
To learn more about this topic or KLAS Solutions, visit us at www.klassolutions.com.
24. Understanding Today's Healthcare Lending with Rob Borcherding
Today's episode is all about healthcare specific banking! We want to give you a dental specific perspective on what types of banks you should consider and why. We are joined by Rob Borcherding who is Vice President - Regional Healthcare Manager at Panacea Financial. He has worked in banking and practice financing for over 23 years and has over a decade of management experience.
www.klassolutions.com
