What if I told you that being "reasonable" is the biggest mistake you're making in your

dental practice? After decades of perfecting my clinical skills, I discovered something that

completely changed how I approach patient care—and it has nothing to do with technical

dentistry.

In this episode, I share a counterintuitive principle I learned from one of the world's

most successful restaurateurs that has transformed how I think about practice

growth. This single concept explains why some practices have patients who

become passionate advocates, while others struggle with retention despite

excellent clinical outcomes. The difference isn't what you think.

What You'll Discover in This Episode

A Philosophy That Separates Ordinary Practices from Extraordinary Ones:

• The surprising reason why "reasonable" service keeps you stuck in mediocrity

• A simple story about a hot dog that reveals the secret to creating unforgettable patient

experiences

• Why the thing you think matters most to patients actually matters least

• The hidden cost of small denials that's quietly destroying your practice growth

The Missing

Ingredient in Most Dental Practices:

• What invisible blockages are preventing patient loyalty in your practice right now

• The counterintuitive principle of giving that actually benefits you more than

anyone else

• Why your technical excellence might be working against you

• Who else in your practice ecosystem deserves this approach (hint: it's not just

patients)

A Framework for Transformation:

• How to spot daily opportunities that most dentists completely miss

• The mindset shift that turns transactions into relationships

• What it means to become "the gift" instead of just a service provider

• A measurement strategy that reveals what really drives practice success

Why This Episode Matters

I'm going to challenge everything you think you know about patient satisfaction and

practice growth. If you've been wondering why your excellent clinical skills

aren't translating into the kind of patient loyalty and referrals you expected,

this episode will answer that question. But more importantly, it will show you

exactly what to do about it.

You'll hear real examples of how tiny acts of stinginess cost practices thousands of

dollars, and how seemingly "unreasonable" gestures create loyalty

that lasts for years. This isn't theory—it's a proven approach that's working

in my practice and can work in yours.

Fair warning: This episode might make you uncomfortable. It certainly made me

question some of my own practices. But if you're ready to break free from

average and build something truly extraordinary, you need to hear this.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients

I spent years confusing motion with progress. My calendar was packed, my to-do list was

endless, and I felt like I was crushing it every single day. But when I looked

back at the end of each quarter, I realized something unsettling: I hadn't

actually moved closer to what mattered most. I was caught in what I call the

"too busy trap"—and there's a good chance you are too. In this

episode, I reveal the uncomfortable truth about why being busy is killing your

dreams, and I share the exact moment everything changed for me.

The Alice in Wonderland Secret Nobody Talks About

There's a conversation between Alice and the Cheshire Cat that completely transformed

how I think about goals. It's a simple exchange, but it reveals why most people

wander through life without ever reaching their destination. I'll break down

this powerful lesson and show you how it applies to your quarterly planning,

your daily decisions, and whether you'll actually achieve what you say you want

this year. Spoiler: if you don't know where you're going, you're already lost.

My 30-Year Accountability Experiment (And What It Taught Me)

For three decades, I've had the same workout partner. Same person. Thirty years. And this

relationship has taught me more about achievement than any book, course, or

motivational speech ever could. In this episode, I share the accountability

framework that's kept me consistent for three decades, and I reveal the one principle

my father taught me that changed everything: "Your life will work to the

extent to which you keep your commitments." I'll show you exactly how to

apply this to your goals—starting today.

What You'll Discover in This Episode:

• The quarterly "rocks" system that replaced my failed New Year's

resolutions (and why five is the magic number)

• Why writing down goals isn't enough—and the one step most people skip that makes

all the difference

• The Tony Robbins principle I use to turn invisible dreams into visible reality

• How to escape the busy trap and start being intentional instead of just reactive

• The accountability strategy that transforms private wishes into public promises

Stop being busy. Start being intentional. Your future self will thank you.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients

Have you ever wondered why some patients leave, even after a successful treatment? For

years, I’ve been obsessed with this question, and the answer I found is both

simpler and more profound than you might think. It has nothing to do with your

clinical skills or your technology.

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the single most powerful force in your

practice: trust.

What you'll discover in this episode:

• A Defining Moment: I’ll share a deeply personal story about a patient named Hans and a choice that defined my entire career. It’s a story about integrity, and it’s a lesson I’ll never forget.

• The Trust Blueprint: Trust isn’t magic; it’s a system. I’ll reveal the small, often-overlooked moments when trust is either won or lost forever—from the first phone call to a simple rule about using a computer in the exam room.

• Beyond the Clinic: You'll learn why focusing on trust isn't just the right thing to do, but also the most powerful business decision you can make, turning patients into lifelong advocates.

If you’re ready to stop the revolving door and build a practice on a foundation of unbreakable loyalty, you can’t afford to miss this episode. Join me as we explore the art and science of building a high-trust practice.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients

I have a question for you, and I'd like you to be honest with yourself: are you happy at

work? For years, I’ve seen far too many of my colleagues in the dental

profession running on fumes. The statistics are shocking—nearly 40% of dentists

feel disengaged from their work, and a staggering number are considering

leaving the profession altogether. I’ve been there myself. I know the immense

pressure, the stress, and the feeling that you’re giving everything you have,

only to feel drained at the end of the day. In this episode, I’m pulling back

the curtain on the burnout epidemic and sharing the hard-earned wisdom I’ve

gained over 42 years in practice.

The Counterintuitive Secret to a Thriving Practice

What if I told you that the key to falling in love with your job again has nothing to do

with your clinical skills? It took me years to figure this out, but the

solution to burnout isn’t found in mastering a new procedure—it’s in

rediscovering your “unique ability.” It’s about creating an environment where

you and your team can focus on what you truly love to do. In this episode,

you’ll discover:

• How to identify your unique strengths and passions (and why they matter more than you

think).

• The single biggest mistake dentists make when they want to manage their energy and

focus.

• Practical steps to redesign your role so you can spend more time in your zone of genius.

How I Built a Team That Never Wants to Leave

I’m incredibly proud to say that no team member has left my practice in over 18

months. This isn’t an accident; it’s the result of a deliberate and heartfelt

effort to build a culture of trust, support, and mutual respect. We operate

like a family, where everyone is empowered to work within their unique ability

and uplift each other. I’ll share the exact strategies I used to create this

environment, including:

• How the “Be the Gift” philosophy transformed our team dynamics.

• How to turn your office into a sanctuary that your team loves coming to every day.

• Simple, actionable ways to foster a servant-hearted culture that puts people first.

This isn’t just another podcast about practice management. This is a conversation about

your life, your passion, and your well-being. If you’re ready to trade burnout

for a career that truly fires you up, then this episode is for you. Let’s build

a more fulfilling future, together.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients

In today's digital world, your dental practice is not just what patients experience in the

chair; it's what they see online before they even pick up the phone. I've

learned that a staggering 77% of potential patients check your online reviews

before even considering booking an appointment. That means your online presence

can either be your greatest asset or your biggest liability. In this episode, I

want to pull back the curtain and share the exact strategies I've used to build

a thriving practice by mastering my online reputation.

Why Your Online Reputation is Your Most Valuable Asset

For years, I’ve seen firsthand how platforms like Google, Facebook, and even Instagram can

build or bankrupt a business. A steady stream of positive reviews is the

lifeblood of a modern practice. It builds immediate trust and social proof,

telling potential patients that they are in safe hands. But how do you

consistently generate that positive feedback without overwhelming your staff or

your patients? I'll walk you through the simple, automated system I implemented

that has generated thousands of 5-star reviews for my practice.

My Blueprint for a 5-Star Online Presence

Building a powerful online presence goes beyond just reviews. It's about creating an

authentic and engaging digital version of your practice. I believe in a

multi-faceted approach, and in this episode, I'll break down my core

strategies, including:

• The Automated Review System: Learn about the specific tool I use to automatically

text patients for reviews, making the process seamless and incredibly

effective.

• The Authentic Website: I'll explain why your website needs to be more than a

digital brochure. I'll discuss detailed case studies with before-and-after

photos, and genuine patient video testimonials to build deep, lasting trust.

• Engaging Social Media Content: Discover how my team and I create simple, original

content and case highlights to engage our community and stay top of mind.

If you're ready to stop worrying about your online reputation and start making it work for

you, then this episode is your guide. I'm sharing everything I've learned so you can

build a stronger, more resilient practice that attracts the patients you want.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients

With over 30 years of experience in periodontal and implant surgery, I've seen firsthand

how critical the first two weeks after a procedure are for a successful

outcome. It's not just about the surgery itself; it's about how you care for

yourself afterward. That's why I've created this guide—to give you the clear,

concise, and essential instructions you need to heal quickly, comfortably, and

without complications. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge to take

control of your recovery and achieve the best possible results.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• The 48-Hour Rule: What you must do in the first two days to manage swelling and

discomfort effectively.

• Medication Mastery: My approach to pain management, including both prescription and

homeopathic options.

• The "Do Not" List: Critical mistakes to avoid.

• Your Post-Op Diet: A simple guide to eating well without disrupting the surgical

site.

• Oral Hygiene Protocol: How to keep your mouth clean without harming your sutures or

the delicate healing tissues.

Why Proper Aftercare is Non-Negotiable

I often tell my patients that their role in recovery is just as important as mine is in

the surgery. Following these post-operative instructions isn't just about

comfort; it's about preventing infection, ensuring the long-term success of

your implant or graft, and getting you back to your life faster. In this

episode, I break down the science behind these steps, making them easy to

understand, so you're not just following rules—you're making informed decisions

for your health. Don't leave your healing to chance. Tune in to learn how to

navigate your recovery with confidence and care.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients

What if I told you that post-operative pain is largely optional? For years, my practice

has been operating on a little-known principle that has led to something

extraordinary: a 95% pain-free rate for our surgical patients. This isn’t

magic, and it’s not a secret I want to keep. It’s a systematic approach that

any practice can adopt, yet so few understand its true power.

It all comes down to the "setup"—a complete shift in how we prepare patients

for surgery. We’ve discovered that the moments before a procedure are even more

critical than the moments after. In this episode, I’m not just sharing a few

tips; I’m revealing the entire blueprint that has transformed my practice and

redefined what patients can expect from a surgical experience.

In This Episode, You Will Discover:

• The single most important shift in thinking that unlocks a pain-free patient

journey.

• How my counterintuitive, non-narcotic medication strategy has proven more effective

than traditional methods.

• The simple communication system that virtually guarantees patient compliance and

builds unshakable trust.

• The key to eliminating post-operative pain.

If you’re ready to challenge the conventions of patient care and build a practice known

for its remarkable outcomes, you can’t afford to miss this. Join me as I pull

back the curtain on the system that changed everything.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients

For years, the standard approach to managing post-operative pain has been reactive.

Patients are sent home with narcotics and told to "chase the pain"

only after it has already begun. But what if we could prevent the pain from

ever starting? In my practice, I've developed a protocol that does just that- it has

revolutionized the patient experience.

The Power of Preparation

I believe that the key to a pain-free recovery lies in what we do before the surgery even

begins. It’s about leveraging the power of the mind—the placebo effect—and

combining it with a proactive medication strategy. By preparing my patients, managing

their expectations, and giving them the tools to succeed, we can transform

their surgical journey from one of anxiety and fear to one of comfort and

confidence.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How my specific pre-operative protocol significantly minimizes post-surgical pain.

• How simple communication and providing a "lifeline" can dramatically

improve patient outcomes.

• Why the traditional model of post-operative care is broken and what we can do to fix

it.

• The role of non-narcotic solutions and homeopathic remedies in creating a comfortable

recovery.

Join me as I pull back the curtain on a simple yet powerful approach that has led to

happier, healthier patients and a more fulfilling practice. You don't have to

be afraid of the dentist, and in this episode, I'll show you why.

Mentioned in this episode:

Transform your practice with Dr. Michael Sonick's "Treating People Not Patients" course

Learn the hospitality secrets that create patient loyalty, drive referrals, and build thriving practices. Get 9 video modules, bonus content, and 6 CE credits for each member of your team!

Click here to learn more about Treating People Not Patients