Imagine carving out a dental practice that puts principles and patient well-being above insurance red tape.

That’s exactly what Dr. Kristen Self set out to do in New Braunfels, Texas, building her pediatric dental clinic from the ground up (outside the confines of traditional insurance models.) In this episode, Dr. Self opens up about the emotional rollercoaster and practical challenges of staying independent, describing how she crafted a thriving, holistic, and minimally invasive practice tailored to families who value prevention, transparency, and genuine care.

Discover the pivotal decisions that shaped the fate of her business, from navigating a licensing hurdle that forced a rebrand to leveraging local storytelling for powerful, trust-building marketing. Dr. Self gets candid about the financial uncertainty and the payoff that comes with running a values-driven clinic, all while developing strong team foundations and a unique patient experience. You will walk away with actionable insights on authentic leadership, transparent communication, and creative marketing that connects deeply with your community!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to establish a successful out-of-network, holistic dental practice
• The pros and cons of rejecting traditional insurance-based care models
• Ways to use local storytelling and authentic content for impactful marketing
• Building and maintaining transparent communication with both patients and staff
• Strategies for facing business setbacks and staying aligned with your ethics
• Systems that support a calm, reliable, and values-based dental environment
• The importance of community connection for patient engagement and loyalty
• Tools and ideas for effective local advertising and branding
• How adaptability and authenticity drive growth in independent practices
• Leadership lessons for nurturing a resilient, dedicated team culture

Tune in to uncover how authentic vision and creative strategy could be your next step to success!

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Sponsors:‍

Practice Real Estate Group: healthcare real estate experts with over a century of experience in medical real estate across hundreds of transactions. Visit their site and mention "The Dental Marketer" for a FREE demographic and competition study for your new location! practicerealestategroup.com

Guest: Dr. Kristen Self

Practice Name: River Smiles Dental

Check out Kristen's Media:‍

Website: riversmilesnb.com

Email: kristenkself@gmail.com

Kristen's Free Downloads: stan.store/DrSelf

Practice Instagram: instagram.com/riversmilesnb

Practice TikTok: tiktok.com/@riversmilesnb

Kristen's Instagram: instagram.com/kristenkself

Kristen's TikTok: tiktok.com/@kristenkself

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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What if becoming your town’s trusted dentist had less to do with technical skill and more with being the first name on everyone’s lips when dental questions arise?

This episode uncovers the real secret behind becoming the community’s go-to practice: building unmistakable authority where it matters most. Drawing from real-life examples and actionable strategies, we'll zero in on how public recognition, social mentions, and word-of-mouth from local leaders shape your reputation, often before patients even step foot in your office.

From nailing down your unique message to showing up on the right stages, online and in-person, we break down the four essential pillars of authority: clarity, visibility, education, and consistency. You’ll learn how to teach rather than promote, leverage collaborative partnerships, and roll out educational initiatives that make you a household name. Discover five quick-start authority plays you can implement today and follow a step-by-step 90-day action plan designed to transform your practice into a trusted resource for your entire community. Bottom line? Trust, built through education and presence, determines who gets the call when dental needs arise (not just the flashiest ad or fanciest equipment.)

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The four pillars dentists must establish to command community authority
• How to clarify your niche and message so patients know what you stand for
• Best practices for getting visible in local events, digital channels, and collaborating with area influencers
• Why teaching, not just promoting, builds trust and cements your reputation
• Five fast-track strategies to increase word-of-mouth and public recognition
• An actionable 90-day plan to boost your standing and become top-of-mind
• Tips for developing partnerships with other trusted local experts
• Ways to create signature offerings, like community classes or myth-busting series, that position you as a thought leader

Press play and discover how to make your dental practice the community’s first choice (without relying on endless promotions or noisy ads.)

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Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:

Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

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What if you could reach your biggest practice goals in half the time you planned, without sacrificing your well-being along the way?

In this episode, Dr. Justin Baik reveals how he rapidly transformed his vision of dental practice ownership into reality, smashing his five-year plan in just two and a half years. Driven by the weight of student debt, Dr. Baik didn't wait for the "perfect moment." Instead, he seized unique opportunities presented during the COVID-19 pandemic, optimizing financial strategies and decisively launching his practice in a prime retail location outside Chicago.

Dr. Baik shares the blueprints behind his accelerated success, from leveraging low-interest rates and student loan refinancing to painstaking demographic research and data-driven site selection. He opens up about the practical sacrifices, the value of focusing on growing income (not just saving) and why prioritizing staff satisfaction and operational efficiency are non-negotiable for long-term success. Through honest reflection, Dr. Baik demonstrates how calculated risks, meticulous planning, and adaptable leadership can not only jumpstart your professional journey but also create space for a healthier work-life balance down the line.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Smart strategies for paying off student loans in record time
• How to leverage economic cycles and low-interest rates for financial growth
• The step-by-step process of using data and demographics to select a winning practice location
• Why increasing income outperforms simply cutting expenses for rapid debt payoff
• Tactics to boost staff happiness and retain top talent
• The importance of relentless operational improvement
• Navigating the mental challenges and sacrifices of early practice ownership
• Creating robust systems that eventually give you more personal freedom
• The mindset shifts needed for sustainable, accelerated growth
• Practical resources Dr. Baik used to get ahead

Hit play to discover Dr. Baik’s proven path to achieving dental practice success, faster and smarter!

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Sponsors:‍

Net32: Founded by a dentist, for dentists. Net32 is the leading online marketplace for dental supplies, helping dental and medical professionals save on high-quality products for over 25 years. Start saving today at: net32.com/dentalmarketer

Guest: Dr. Justin Baik

Practice Name: Fox Pediatric Dentistry

Check out Justin's Media:‍

Website: foxpediatricdentistry.com

Email: justinbaik88@gmail.com

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

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Are your ground marketing events driving real results or just foot traffic with no follow-through?

Let's learn the secret to transforming your dental practice’s ground marketing efforts by focusing on the numbers that truly matter. In this episode, we unravel the common traps that derail dental teams, like mistaking positive interactions for meaningful impact or tracking a flood of metrics that don’t actually move the needle. Instead, we break down the five essential numbers every team should measure: contacts captured, same-day appointments booked, 24-hour conversions, show rate, and 30-day revenue. You’ll learn why your marketing events should function as mini-labs, designed to capture data, test new tactics, and fine-tune your approach for maximum patient growth.

We’ll guide you step-by-step through capturing leads more effectively, creating urgency for same-day bookings, and turning opportunities into real appointments within 24 hours. Discover practical language tweaks and reminder systems that boost your show rate and ensure new patients walk through your door. Plus, find out how to track 30-day revenue so you know which efforts yield actual ROI—and when it’s time to double down or walk away from a partnership. You’ll leave with a proven framework for assessing, adjusting, and amplifying your ground marketing strategies (all rooted in actionable data and smart experimentation.)

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why focusing on five core metrics outperforms tracking vanity data
• The step-by-step system for capturing quality leads at every event
• How to create urgency and book more same-day appointments
• Techniques for converting leads within 24 hours for higher success
• Scripts and strategies to improve your show rate dramatically
• How to tie each event to measurable, 30-day revenue outcomes
• Diagnosing weak spots (what your data tells you about your marketing gaps)
• The formula for running controlled, effective marketing experiments
• How to run productive team meetings for ongoing ground marketing success
• Clear benchmarks for deciding when to invest in or drop partnerships

Tune in now to turn your ground marketing events into real, revenue-generating engines for your practice!

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Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:

Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

Ever felt that awkward moment when it’s time to talk dollars and cents with a patient, only to watch their interest in treatment vanish on the way to the front desk?

In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest bottlenecks in dental practice efficiency, "the dreaded financial discussion," and why it’s time to get your entire clinical team fluent in handling money conversations.

Michael is joined by dental efficiency expert Susan Leckowicz to unpack strategies that empower dental assistants and hygienists to confidently handle treatment costs and scheduling right in the operatory. Susan shares why cross-training staff and implementing standardized financial agreement forms can dramatically cut down on patients changing their minds post-consult, while also making life easier for your team. Hear how direct, early, and clear financial conversations (supported by scripts, flexible payment options, and simple forms) remove uncertainty for patients, build trust, and foster more accepted treatment plans. If you’ve struggled with lost revenue or team discomfort when discussing finances, this episode is packed with practical, step-by-step solutions!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why relying solely on a treatment coordinator can hinder case acceptance
• Step-by-step tips for cross-training dental assistants and hygienists to discuss finances
• How to create and leverage a standardized, auto-populated financial agreement form
• Effective scripts your team can use for confident financial conversations with patients
• How to seamlessly present payment options like CareCredit and upfront discounts
• Strategies for building trust and increasing patient commitment to treatment plans
• Ways to reduce patient drop-off between operatory and front desk
• Training methods to help your team feel comfortable discussing money
• The positive impact of streamlined processes on patient experience and productivity

Hit play now to discover actionable ways to simplify money talks and boost confidence in your treatment plans for your team and your patients!

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Sponsors:‍

CallRail: Never miss a call again! Voice Assist answers and qualifies every inbound call 24/7, so you capture every new patient. Try the 14 day free trial for our listeners at: sta.mx/m2wx

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Guest: Susan Leckowicz

Business Name: Dental Coaches

Check out Susan's Media:‍

Website: dentalcoaches.com

Email: susan@dentalcoaches.com

Book a Call with Susan! calendly.com/susan-dentalcoaches/podcast-fa-form

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

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Is there a one-size-fits-all way to build genuine relationships in both bustling cities and close-knit small towns?

This episode reveals how authentic, face-to-face interactions can weave your practice into the fabric of both urban and rural communities.

Instead of relying on impersonal ads or digital campaigns, we explore how presence, repetition, and genuine connection in everyday spaces build trust that no billboard can match. In urban environments, you’ll learn how to naturally fit into the rhythm of busy lives—showing up at the gym, the coffee shop, and even apartment complexes, always with a friendly smile and zero sales pressure. For rural areas, it’s about heartfelt gestures and authentic participation in community events—think local school gatherings, farmers’ markets, and neighborly thank-yous. Throughout, we’ll highlight practical ways to be recognized not as a promoter, but as a vital part of the community, while measuring your impact with metrics that actually matter.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How ground marketing transforms practices into familiar, trusted faces
• Differences between urban and rural ground marketing (and why they matter)
• Real-life tactics for showing up in busy city spaces without being intrusive
• Ways to connect meaningfully at rural events and schools
• The importance of reciprocity and creating genuine value for your community
• How to use thoughtful gestures, from appreciation bags to local spotlights
• Designing engaging community walls and offers using QR codes
• Steps to begin your ground marketing journey, one location at a time

Ready to become a part of your community, not just another practice? Press play to learn the best way to promote your practice in urban and rural settings!

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Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:

Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

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Why do some dental practices have teams that go the extra mile while others struggle with high turnover and mediocre results?

In this episode, Dino Watt unveils the secrets behind building a vibrant practice culture that doesn’t just improve patient experience—it transforms every facet of your business. Drawing from an extraordinary journey that started in Hollywood and led to dental practice consulting, Dino shares unique strategies grounded in business principles, storytelling, and real-world experience, illustrating how practice owners can foster tighter-knit teams and higher-performing offices.

From crafting vision statements to living out core values, Dino explains why successful cultures don’t happen by accident (and how dentists can intentionally shape theirs for long-term success.) You’ll discover actionable tips on hiring the right people (and letting go of the wrong ones), providing feedback that strengthens rather than divides, and creating a magnetic workplace where every team member feels essential. Whether you’re grappling with tough conversations, looking to boost morale, or striving to attract and retain top talent, Dino’s practical wisdom will equip you to cultivate a dental practice where patients and staff alike genuinely want to stay.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The essential elements of a practice vision and how it attracts the right team members.
• Why core values are non-negotiable for building high standards and unity.
• How to approach tough conversations and give constructive feedback that motivates change.
• Ways to foster a culture where every employee feels needed, valued, and engaged.
• The importance of being inquisitive rather than accusatory in team dynamics.
• How to improve hiring practices for lasting team success.
• Strategies to quickly address problematic behavior before it impacts culture.
• Steps to create a magnetic work environment that both retains and attracts talent.

Press play to discover Dino Watt’s proven strategies for turning your dental practice into a place where both patients and team members truly want to be.

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Sponsors:‍

CallRail: Never miss a call again! Voice Assist answers and qualifies every inbound call 24/7, so you capture every new patient. Try the 14 day free trial for our listeners at: sta.mx/m2wx

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Guest: Dino Watt

Business Name: Dino Watt Consulting

Check out Dino's Media:‍

Consulting Website: dinowattconsulting.com

Speaking Website: dinowatt.com

Dino's Books:

The Practice Rx: Second Edition

The Magnetic Culture Equation

Instagram: instagram.com/dinowatt

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

Picture this: Your practice and the shop next door becoming your neighborhood’s favorite duo!

Too many local practices chase new patients when they could be building networks that bring them in by the dozen. This episode pulls back the curtain on a smarter strategy: focusing on partnerships that make other businesses shine, so your reputation (and client list) grows naturally. You’ll learn how ground marketing isn’t just about being visible—it’s about creating value for others first, and letting reciprocity and trust do the work for you.

Michael breaks down exactly how to select and approach the right local vendors, using three simple filters that cut through the noise. You’ll walk away knowing how to identify partnership opportunities with coffee shops, gyms, salons, and more, and why starting small can actually get you bigger wins faster. With tangible examples, we’ll show how to create irresistible win-win offers and how spotlight strategies can boost your partners’ reputation while opening doors for your own success. By the end, you’ll have a ready-to-use pitch framework and the motivation to launch your first partnership today!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The critical mindset shift from seeking patients to championing your partners
• How the psychology of reciprocity, social proof, and identity fuel lasting partnerships
• Three must-have filters for selecting ideal vendor partners
• Why smaller, local businesses are your best first targets
• Creative ideas for perks and recognition that delight vendors and their customers
• Strategies for crafting a partnership pitch that lands every time
• How to track, optimize, and scale your local partnership results
• Action steps to move from planning to real-world progress

Start building the kind of partnerships that make local businesses (and your reputation) unforgettable by tuning in now!

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Learn More About the Ground Marketing Course Here:

Website: thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/the-ground-marketing-course-open-enrollment

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Host: Michael Arias

Join my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍

Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society

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Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!