May 04, 2026

306. Dental School Won't Teach You This — But We Will

33 minutes

Dental students — this episode is for YOU. The Lifestyle Practice team — Steve Van De Graaff, Derek Williams, and Matt Vogt — officially announce the launch of the TLP Student Academy: an online course built specifically for dental students who want to graduate ready to OWN a dental practice, build wealth, and design a lifestyle practice on their own terms — all for just $20 with lifetime access.

In this dental podcast episode, three practice-owning dentists who bought practices straight out of dental school break down the business and clinical "crash course" that fills the gaps every dental school leaves wide open. From maximizing clinical experience and shortening your learning curve, to evaluating dental practices for acquisition, dental practice startups, communication and leadership skills, personal finance for dentists, student loan strategy, and the GP vs. specialist decision — this is the dental school survival guide and dental practice ownership roadmap rolled into one.

Whether you're a D1 just starting, a D4 prepping for graduation, or a new associate dentist mapping your path to ownership, the Lifestyle Practice Student Academy is your shortcut to financial freedom in dentistry, work-life balance, and early practice ownership.

🦷 Topics covered in this episode: ✔ Why dental school doesn't teach business or personal finance ✔ How to maximize clinical experience in dental school ✔ Networking and mentorship strategies for dental students ✔ Buying a dental practice vs. starting a dental practice from scratch ✔ Practice acquisitions for new dentists ✔ Raising your "belief lid" as a future dental practice owner ✔ Building a lifestyle practice that fits YOUR life ✔ ROI mindset for dental school investment ✔ Implants, oral surgery, and endo experience hustle in school ✔ Path to financial independence as a dentist

If you're searching for dental practice coaching, dental student mentorship, dental practice ownership advice, dental school tips, or how to buy a dental practice — this episode is your starting point.

Get the TLP Student Academy for $20 (lifetime access): https://the-lifestyle-practice.teachable.com/p/studentacademy

Connect with us:

Take our FREE lifestyle and practice assessment: https://thelifestylepractice.com/practice-assesment/

Learn more about 1-on-1 coaching: https://thelifestylepractice.com/coaching-services/

Get access to TLP Academy: https://thelifestylepractice.com/coaching-services/

Subscribe to The Lifestyle Practice Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tlp-podcast-for-dentists/id1476544801

Email Derek at [email protected]

Email Matt at [email protected]

Email Steve at [email protected]

...more