The Orthopreneurs Podcast with Dr. Glenn Krieger

What does it take to build and run a billion-dollar orthodontic empire? Jay Hedrick - CEO of Smile Doctors, knows the answer firsthand. I had the honor of having a conversation with Jay, an experienced executive with a wealth of experience in private equity-backed companies. He sheds light on what it's like running a multi-billion-dollar orthodontic organization and the day in the life of a CEO. Among many other interesting insights, Jay dispels the myth that corporate orthodontics is focused solely on profits. Smile Doctors prioritizes creating value for patients and doctors alike to ensure a win-win scenario for all stakeholders. This episode provides a behind-the-scenes peek into private equity in our profession, equity opportunities, and what drives a successful OSO. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Jay Hedrick's background and career journey (00:52) Day-to-Day Life of a CEO (12:13) Private Equity and its Role in Smile Doctors (14:44) Equity and value creation in Smile Doctors (20:53) Joint venture model and its benefits (26:36) Bolt-On and De Novo strategies (30:13) Cultural alignment and patient care in OSO/DSOs (32:51) Advice for orthodontists joining OSOs or DSOs (35:21) Additional Resources - Smile Doctors: https://smiledoctors.com/ — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Are you thinking about hiring an associate? You might want to rethink that decision. Last week, I talked about opening a satellite and why it might be your biggest mistake and in this episode, I’m breaking down why bringing an associate into your orthodontic practice might be another big mistake you can make. I've received countless messages from people who think hiring an associate will automatically reduce their working hours or increase their revenue. The reality is that bringing on an associate often means more work (not less), at least for the first year or two. It can be an uphill battle, especially if you don’t have the right systems in place. I will explain the core reasons why associateships often fail, from the mismatch of expectations to the financial realities that many don’t realize. You can’t just hire someone and expect them to grow your practice automatically. Most associates don't make the kind of impact you expect, even if you give them all the resources they need. Focusing on your existing practice, maximizing efficiency, and even raising your fees could be the better approach. By doing this, you’ll have a more profitable and less stressful practice without the added complications an associate can bring. Tune in to hear more! Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) The truth about associates and work-life balance (00:52) Why associates rarely increase practice profitability (01:35) How raising fees might be the answer to growth (04:16) Satellite offices and associates dont work out as people think (07:31) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

You might be losing as much as half a million dollars on unanswered calls. That’s right. In this Greatest Hits Series episode, I sat down with Scott Hansen - cofounder of OrthoChats and now LeadSigma, who shared ways why your practice may be bleeding revenue without even realizing it. Scott has built and sold tech that revolutionized patient communication. Now, he’s tackling the next big bottleneck: converting leads. His new company, LeadSigma, focuses on automating and improving how orthodontic offices respond to inquiries - using smart systems and cutting-edge AI. We unpack Scott’s five-step framework that tripled his practice, how missed calls cost you hundreds of thousands, and why the orthodontic industry can learn from the hyper-responsive world of home services. Scott also shares the next frontier in AI and what it will mean for your front desk team and new patient scheduling. If you are looking for ways to scale your practice efficiently, this is the episode for you. 🎧 Tune in and discover the simple changes that can drive massive growth. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Scott’s start in orthodontics (03:12) Creation and sale of OrthoChats (06:04) Birth of LeadSigma from a real-world problem (11:21) Five steps that tripled his practice (16:18) The true cost of missed calls in your practice (22:40) Scheduling, show-up rates, and recalls matter too (27:34) Where AI fits in orthodontic operations (31:36) LeadSigma's future with AI voice agents (33:51) Additional Resources - LeadSigma Website: https://leadsigma.com/ - OrthoChats Website: https://orthochats.com/ — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

I want to talk about something I see way too often. Orthodontists itching to open a satellite location. On the surface, it feels like a good move. More locations = more patients = more money. But it’s not that simple. I’ve been in those shoes. I've had the conversations. I’ve made the spreadsheets. And I’ve also seen what really happens when you try to split your time, energy, and team across two locations. It’s not usually a fairytale ending. In this 5-minute Friday episode, I break down why I believe most satellite practices are a mistake, and why you’re probably better off growing your current practice instead of chasing growth somewhere else. I’ll show you how doubling down where you are can be the smarter, more profitable move. Hit play now and let’s talk about smarter ways to grow. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Is opening a satellite practice a risky move? (00:47) The operational and staffing complications (02:02) Scaling an existing practice vs. opening a new one (03:27) The second biggest mistake orthodontists make (04:13) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

I’m going to be straight with you, some of you are making a massive mistake, and it’s driving me crazy. I keep hearing, “I’m having a down year, I can’t afford CE.” That’s complete BS. You can’t afford NOT to invest in yourself. Even the most successful orthodontists still invest heavily in learning and those struggling should be increasing their educational spending, not cutting it. Skipping CE because ‘money’s tight,’ is just lying to yourself… you’re sabotaging your practice, your family, and your future. If you’re having a tough year, THAT is exactly why you need to double down on learning. You have patients counting on you, a family depending on you, and no one else is going to fix this for you but YOU. In this 5-Minute Friday, I’m giving you a little tough love, because someone needs to say it. If you’re stuck, it’s time to shake things up, and the best way to do that? Get to a course. Go to a meeting. Hire a coach. Do something different. No orthodontist should ever be in a position where they can’t afford to invest in their own success. Listen now, and let’s get to work. 🔥 Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) The biggest mistake orthodontists make (00:42) “I’m having a bad year” isn’t an excuse (01:04) High earners still prioritize education - why don’t you? (03:01) If you’re struggling financially, you should spend more on education (03:47) Stop blaming external factors and take responsibility (04:21) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Have you ever wondered what running an orthodontic practice and Disney World have in common? Dr. Jason Kaplan shares how the legendary customer experience principles from Disney can enhance orthodontic care, improve patient interactions, and create a standout practice. Dr. Kaplan also shares his personal experience with Smile Doctors, debunking common myths about OSOs and DSOs, and discussing the benefits he’s seen in his practice. Beyond the business side, he explores the importance of financial wisdom, why you should give to your family while they need it, and the joy of spending on experiences rather than just accumulating wealth. We also talk about gratitude, fitness, and how taking care of yourself first leads to success in all aspects of life. If you’re looking for ways to level up your practice and your mindset, this is a must-listen! 🎧 Hit play now and discover how to build a fulfilling life and career! Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Dr. Kaplan’s journey into orthodontics (00:41) Myths about OSOs & DSOs (06:06) The value of retirement planning & generational wealth (15:22) Applying Disney’s customer service model to orthodontics (27:27) Gratitude and its impact on business & life (39:04) Dr. Kaplan’s fitness transformation and its benefits (44:46) Additional Resources 📚Books Mentioned - Die with Zero by Bill Perkins: https://www.diewithzerobook.com/welcome - Lessons from the Mouse by Dennis Snow: https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Mouse-Applying-Secrets-Organization/dp/0615372414 — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

For years, I’ve been teaching orthodontists about case acceptance, and I can tell you one thing with certainty: trust alone won’t get patients to say yes anymore. Gone are the days when simply being a doctor was enough to get patients to start treatment. So, what’s the missing piece? You need a closer. Whether it’s you or your treatment coordinator, someone in your practice must have the skills to turn interest into commitment. Sales isn’t a dirty word but an essential skill to grow your practice and help patients. A soft, ethical sales approach is what separates thriving practices from those struggling with low acceptance rates. In this episode, I break down how to create a high-converting patient experience, how to assess your team’s sales ability, and why recording and reviewing your case presentations can transform your acceptance rates. If your practice is bringing in leads but not converting them, you can’t afford to miss this. 🔥 Want to get your case acceptance into the 80-90% range? Listen in, and let’s make it happen. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Patients won’t start treatment just because you’re a doctor anymore (00:41) You need a closer in your practice (01:23) A soft sell is moral, honest, and absolutely necessary (03:01) Are you at 80-90% case acceptance? If not, here’s why (05:08) If you don’t close, your marketing is wasted money (05:25) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Most ortho practices are stuck posting the same boring content - braces debonds, generic team photos, and outdated trends. But you could actually engage your audience, grow your brand, and bring in new patients using your social media. In this episode, I sit down with Brooke Bruneman, a former dental assistant turned dental student who still remotely manages social media for our practice. She shares the insider strategies that make orthodontic content go viral, including how to spot trends, use TikTok duets and stitches, and create videos that actually get shared. Brooke’s insights are packed with actionable tips that any orthodontist can implement immediately to stand out in a crowded digital space. If you’ve struggled to get traction on Instagram or TikTok, this episode is a must-listen. Hit play now and improve your practice’s social media game! Key Takeaways Meet Brooke Bruneman (00:32) Lessons from Disney to Ortho (07:19) Do not hire solely for skills (11:46) How Brooke manages our social media while at school (16:15) Trends and social content creation strategies (22:06) Social media management tips for an ortho practice (29:40) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

There’s this myth in orthodontics that you need to limit your patient load to maintain quality, reduce stress, and run a low-overhead practice. I’m here to tell you that’s not true. The old-school approach of running a low-volume, high-fee orthodontic practice is outdated. With the right technology, smart outsourcing, and effective management, you can see 60-70 patients a day, avoid burnout, and still provide top-notch care. I’ve built a $3 million/year practice working 3 days a week, and I want to show you how you can do it. It’s about working smarter, leading better, and not buying into any limitations other people try to sell you. Some of the best in our field have built high-revenue, low-overhead practices using this approach, and there’s no reason you should not do it. Tune in to this 5-minute Friday episode to hear more! Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Dispelling myths about low-volume practices (00:45) Leveraging technology and outsourcing (02:18) 70 patients a day practice with low stress (02:39) Achieving $3 million a year on three days a week (02:54) Refine your management and leadership skills (04:03) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Every once in a while, you travel to a place that completely blows your mind. That’s what recently happened to me and my family when we went to Japan. I thought I knew what to expect: polite people, cool architecture, good food. But Japan exceeded every expectation I had. It was something out of a dream. In this episode, I’m talking with Mac from Maction Planet, the tour guide who made our trip special. He is originally from the UK but has lived in Japan for over 20 years. He first came here for the Soccer World Cup and fell in love with the country. Mac is not your typical guide, he’s got this insane passion for Japan and knows how to craft an experience that feels personal and unforgettable. We cover everything from Japan’s safety and civility to its awe-inspiring food scene. I’m talking tiny restaurants where chefs treat cooking like fine art, with no tipping culture and some of the best craftsmanship I’ve ever seen. We also discuss what makes Japan so clean and organized, the mesmerizing fusion of Shintoism and Buddhism, and yes... the tea ceremony that changed my entire outlook on life. If you have never been to Japan or are thinking about going, you don’t want to miss this one. I’m definitely going back! Hit play now. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) East vs. West Japan cultural divide explained (02:28) My first impressions of Japan’s uniqueness (03:15) Mac Salman’s background (05:51) Tokyo’s safety and efficiency (13:12) Niche restaurants: 12 seats, owner-chefs, no tipping (20:08) Craftsmanship in food vs. Western “art” norms (24:16) Japan’s shame-based culture and public apologies (32:32) Blending Shinto and Buddhist traditions seamlessly (43:07) Tea ceremony in a private home: “magical” experience (57:18) Travel tips: Avoid summer, embrace February (1:03:46) Additional Resources - Maction Planet Website: https://mactionplanet.com/ - Maction Planet IG: https://www.instagram.com/mactionplanet/?hl=en — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Understanding the difference between mentors, coaches, and consultants is key for anyone looking to advance their career or business. These roles offer distinct types of support, and choosing the right one will greatly impact your success. In this episode, I break down what each one actually does and how picking the right one (or all three) could change your career forever. Over my 30+ years running ortho and dental practices, coaching teams, and building businesses, I’ve spent roughly $500,000 on coaches and consultants. It’s safe to say my return on investment has been several million so far in my career. You’ll hear real-world examples of how a coach can revolutionize your mindset, why mentors offer invaluable advice (but limited hands-on help), and how consultants solve targeted challenges. Don’t guess your way to growth. Hit play and learn more about investing in yourself for success. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Mentors: Free advice, no implementation (01:45) Coaches: High ROI via mindset shifts (03:12) Example: How a $60K coaching program generated millions (03:59) Consultants: Solve niche problems (06:55) How your career stage determines what to choose (09:25) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Running a practice comes with its challenges, especially when it comes to efficiency and costs. One of the areas where we can be more efficient and save costs is by directly printing aligners in our offices. In this episode, I sit down with Mark Bacino from Voxel Dental and Nate Hudson from Renew Digital. Mark dives into how Voxel’s partnership with Lux Creo is changing the game with direct-print aligners. No more models, no more thermoforming. You can print a full set of aligners in about two hours; how cool is that? Nate gives us the lowdown on CBCT tech and why certified pre-owned CBCTs are becoming a smarter investment than new 2D systems. We also chat about how these digital advancements help orthodontists offer faster, more efficient treatments, including same-day sleep appliances. If you are looking for ways to streamline your workflow and cut costs without sacrificing quality, this is the episode you don’t want to miss. Go ahead - hit that play button. You’ll thank me later! Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Meet Mark Bacino (02:36) Meet Nate Hudson (03:42) Overview of Voxel Dental's direct-print aligner technology (11:11) Cost and efficiency improvements with Lux Creo systems (16:30) The role of CBCT in modern orthodontics (23:15) Consultative approach to selecting digital solutions (35:01) Cross-specialty opportunities with EMA sleep appliances (39:26) Contact information for Voxel and Renew (40:19) Additional Resources Contact Nathan Hudson Phone Number: 404-418-8753 Email: nathan@renewdigital.com Contact Mark Bacino Phone Number: 469-525-0791 Email: mark@voxeldental.com ---- Voxel Dental – Technologies for digital orthodontic solutions Renew Digital – Certified pre-owned CBCT and other digital solutions Lux Creo – Dental 3D printing technology — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Is your practice truly where you want it to be? Be honest with yourself. If you’ve been listening for a while, you know I don’t sugarcoat things. Today, I’m getting real about why your practice might not be hitting the numbers you want and what you can do about it. If your practice isn’t where you want it to be, it’s not because of the economy, your competition, or bad luck. It is because you’re not investing enough time and money into the one thing that can change everything. Whether through coaching, courses, or attending events like the OP Summit, the ROI on investing in yourself is massive. If you're not spending the time and money on yourself and your practice, how can you expect things to improve? Tune in to this episode, and let’s get real about what it takes to succeed. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Orthodontic practice growth and challenges (00:41) Controllable factors in practice growth (01:38) The role of coaches and consultants (02:57) Investing in personal and practice development (05:56) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

For most of us, life can feel like a never-ending juggling act. Between work, family, and the chaos of everyday life, it’s easy to feel like you’re hanging on by a thread. In this episode, I welcome Amanda Gore, a motivational speaker and expert in emotional intelligence, communication, and wellness. For over 38 years, Amanda has helped individuals and organizations deal with stress and burnout and improve their emotional well-being. She graciously shares her knowledge of the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and connection in today's world. She also reveals some great techniques to manage stress, stay present, and build stronger relationships both at work and at home. The conversation also covers generational differences in the workplace, the role of non-verbal communication, and unique stress-relief techniques like the "Trouble Tree" and face planting in ice water. Amanda also explains how our emotional states can influence those around us, especially as leaders in our practices. Click to listen to this episode with Amanda Gore for tips to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Amanda's journey and career evolution (00:47) The importance of emotional intelligence and communication (10:02) Strategies for managing stress and burnout (17:26) Faceplanting in ice-cold water for stress relief (33:36) Balancing personal and professional life (37:06) The role of social media and the comparison trap (44:14) Final thoughts (48:10) Additional Resources Amanda Gore's Website: Amanda Gore YouTube at Amanda Gore TV: @amandagoretv — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Are your clinical photos secretly costing you case acceptance and patient trust? You might not realize it, but blurry, mediocre images could be leaving thousands of dollars on the table. In this 5-minute Friday episode, I’m breaking down why exceptional clinical photography is a non-negotiable for your practice. For over 20 years, I’ve taught orthodontists worldwide how clinical photography boosts patient trust and case acceptance rates. I’ll also give a glimpse of the course I created through Orthopreneurs University, designed to train your team (so you don’t have to!) and ensure they know exactly how to get the images you need for success. Tune in to increase your case acceptance, elevate patient care, and make photography a powerhouse tool in your practice. Let’s stop leaving money on the table and turn consultations into 90% case acceptance. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Importance of clinical photography in orthodontics (00:34) Digital co-diagnosis and its impact on your practice (01:22) Financial implications of improving case acceptance (02:23) Training teams in clinical photography through OrthoPreneurs University (03:01) ROI potential from exceptional clinical photography (04:29) Additional Resources - Exceptional Clinical Photography Course Part 1: https://web.orthopreneurs.com/exceptional-clinical-photography-made-easy-details - Exceptional Clinical Photography Course Part 2: https://web.orthopreneurs.com/opu-exceptional-clinical-photography-made-easy-part-2-details - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Have you had a patient walk into your office nervous and dreading orthodontic treatment? In the minds of some of our patients, pain and orthodontics often go hand-in-hand, whether it’s from braces, aligners, or other treatment modalities. It’s up to us to change that and reassure our patients of a painless experience. That’s why I’m excited to share a solution that’s not just innovative but genuinely transformative for both your practice and your patients—the Synapse Pen, also known as the Dental Pain Eraser. I had the privilege of sitting down with the brilliant mind behind this tool, Dr. Cosmo Haralambidis, to have an in-depth discussion on the science behind the workings of this tool and the business case for its adoption. After our conversation, I’m convinced that every orthodontist needs to know about this device. So listen in and learn how this non-pharmacologic, FDA-approved device works to block pain signals effectively and how it can enhance patient satisfaction in your practice. Key Takeaways Introduction and welcome to Dr. Cosmo (00:00) Dr. Cosmo's background and training (02:02) Development of Synapse and addressing dental phobia (03:40) Applications of the Synapse Pen (06:21) Detailed applications and usage (08:57) Patient use and pricing (14:10) Science Behind the Synapse Pen (18:52) Clinical studies and validation (22:12) Conclusion and special offer (24:10) Additional Resources - Learn more about the Dental Pain Eraser Website: https://dentalpaineraser.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dentalpaineraser/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dental.pain.eraser/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/synapse-dental-llc/ Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/dentalpaineraser YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-Lr7q3YNcBI25LDrCCCthA — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

As an orthodontist, you're incredibly busy. You're focused on providing the best possible care to your patients, and the last thing you want to worry about is your taxes. If you’re working hard to make money, you owe it to yourself to work just as hard to keep it. That’s why I believe the right CPA can make a big difference in your bottom line. It’s about tapping into every legal tax strategy available. I’m talking about R&D tax credits, economic opportunity zones, conservation easements, and more. In this week's 5-minute Friday, I'm sharing some key things to look for in a CPA to ensure you're keeping more of the money you earn. Listen in! Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Importance of financial planning and CPAs (00:34) Qualities of a great CPA (02:18) Confidence and expertise in tax planning (04:15) The role of CPAs in tax strategy (05:39) Seek better financial advice (06:10) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

In this episode, I chat with Dr. Steven Semaan, an Australian orthodontist who runs a practice that's 99% aligner-based. He shares how he transitioned into a full aligner model in a country where aligner adoption is still relatively low. Steven also shares the tools he uses, like dental monitoring and remote response, to run his practice more efficiently and create more time for himself and his patients. At one point, he got an award for being the #1 doctor in the world using dental monitoring. Not only that, but Steven is the mastermind behind iChew®, an innovative aligner accessory that patients absolutely love. It solves a lot of the issues with traditional chewies, and his patients can’t stop asking for more! If you have issues with aligner patient compliance or scaling your practice efficiently, Steven drops some golden nuggets you don’t want to miss. Ready to rethink how you run your practice and get inspired to innovate? Click play, and let’s go! Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Dr. Steven Semaan's background and early career (00:58) Transition to orthodontics and early adoption of aligners (07:51) Transitioning to aligner-based practice (14:36) Embracing dental monitoring and remote response (21:15) Using AI tools like ChatGPT in daily workflows (28:38) Addressing compliance in aligner treatments (36:43) Importance of delegation in practice management (39:35) iChew® and its benefits (45:54) Additional Resources - Order The iChew®: https://www.chewly.com.au/ - Remote Response: https://www.remoteresponse.com/ — - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

I see it all the time - practices that think they’re doing great but are actually full of hidden inefficiencies. We’re talking response times that are way too long, systems that aren’t as tight as you think, and a reliance on amazing staff that might actually be holding you back. I share real-life examples of orthodontists who swore their practices were running perfectly—until the data told a different story. I’ll show you how metrics like response times can uncover the flaws you don’t even know are there. I will also tell you what you need to do for superior results and greater accountability. 👉 Listen in! Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Challenges with overburdened assistants (00:40) Importance of timely response (02:31) Systemic issues in practices (05:43) The case for outsourcing (06:35) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Let me start by saying this: some conversations stick with you long after they’re over. My chat with Dr. Nicole Wax was one of those conversations. You know, the kind—where you walk away inspired. Nicole has that effect on people. She’s not just an orthodontist and a leader; she’s one of the most grounded and intentional people I’ve had the privilege of knowing. Growing up as an underdog, with nothing handed to her. No family role models in dentistry, business, or leadership, she had to figure it all out on her own. But her underdog status became her fuel. She didn’t just claw her way up for personal success; she’s made it her mission to help others reach their full potential, too. That’s her “why”—lifting others, whether they’re patients, team members, or peers. If there’s one thing Nicole excels at, it’s leadership. But she’s the first to admit she didn’t always get it right. She has some innovative leadership strategies, including her successful "pow-wow" meeting approach that changed her team's engagement and problem-solving abilities. She shares practical techniques for empowering staff and creating a more collaborative practice environment. Beyond practice management, Dr. Wax discusses the huge impact of therapy, coaching, and self-discovery on both professional success and personal fulfillment. Her candid insights about finding contentment while maintaining ambition provide a fresh perspective on work-life balance. If you're looking to transform your leadership style while finding greater satisfaction in both your practice and personal life, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways Introduction (00:00) Dr. Wax's problem-solving approach (01:11) Dr. Wax's career journey and early aspirations (04:57) Building and growing practices (07:37) The role of therapy and coaching (10:52) Leadership and team dynamics (16:56) Finding contentment and purpose (32:11) The importance of gratitude and positive attitude (45:27) Additional Resources - Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/ - For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/ - Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs