"Hiring for fit is crucial; training can follow."

Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodontics
SmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this conversation, Jill Allen and Alan Twigg discuss the challenges of hiring and retaining employees in the tight labor market, emphasizing the importance of workplace culture, reference checks, and performance management. They explore best practices for onboarding, the necessity of background checks, and the complexities of HR compliance in today's evolving landscape. The discussion highlights the need for introspection when addressing employee performance issues and the significance of regularly updating HR policies to ensure compliance.


Connect With Our Guest

Bent Ericksen & Associates - https://bentericksen.com


Takeaways

• Most people don't enter business to deal with HR issues.
• Hiring for fit is crucial; training can follow.
• A strong workplace culture helps retain employees.
• Reference checks should focus on former employers, not personal references.
• Background checks are essential in today's labor market.
• Addressing poor performance early is key to retaining good employees.
• Introspection is important when dealing with underperforming staff.
• A structured approach to performance management can yield positive results.
• HR compliance is increasingly complex and varies by state.
• Regularly updating employee manuals is essential for compliance.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:38 Welcoming Alan Twigg
02:13 Background of Bent Ericksen and Associates 
05:27 Challenges in Hiring and Retaining Employees
09:33 Importance of Reference and Background Checks
23:08 Addressing Poor Performance in the Workplace
24:37 Addressing Toxic Employees
25:31 Introspection and Onboarding
27:05 Performance Standards and Expectations
29:04 Commitment to Change
33:25 HR Compliance and Legal Nuances
37:07 Staying Updated with Employment Laws
38:16 The Value of HR Compliance
42:04 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Episode Credits:
 
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"Staffing is the most challenging part."
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodontics
SmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary

In this episode of Hey Docs, Dr. Dan Pan and Dr. Fiona Shi from Emerald City Orthodontics share their inspiring journey from residency to starting their own practice. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of launching a startup in a competitive market, the importance of branding and patient experience, and the financial realities of their first year. The couple emphasizes the significance of teamwork, adaptability, and leveraging technology to create a unique practice that stands out in the orthodontic field. 


Connect With Our Guest

Emerald City Orthodontics - https://www.ecortho.io


Takeaways

• Both Dan and Fiona met during their residency and share a strong background in dentistry.
• They decided to start their practice together after gaining experience in various settings.
• The couple emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision for their brand and patient experience.
• They took an unconventional approach by diving 100% into their startup without maintaining associate jobs.
• Building a strong online presence and community engagement was crucial before opening their practice.
• They faced significant challenges in staffing and training new team members without prior experience.
• The couple believes in the importance of a seamless patient experience to stand out in a competitive market.
• They chose to go digital from the beginning to streamline operations and enhance scalability.
• Dan and Fiona highlight the need for continuous learning and adaptation in their practice.
• They aspire to create a strong referral network by collaborating with other dental professionals.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Emerald City Orthodontics
01:07 Journey from Residency to Practice
04:52 Deciding to Start a Practice Together
10:53 Navigating Competition in a New Market
18:52 Building a Unique Brand Experience
21:59 Financial Realities of Year One
26:54 Building a Trusting Team
29:35 Hiring for Potential Over Experience
31:48 Training and Developing Staff
35:07 Lessons Learned in the First Year
36:15 Embracing Digital Transformation
42:30 Connecting with Emerald City Orthodontics

Episode Credits:
 
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"Learn it till you earn it."
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodontics
SmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary

In this engaging conversation, John D Marvin shares his extensive experience in healthcare and leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding consumer behavior, building strong teams, and the mindset necessary for success. He discusses the misconceptions young professionals have about leadership, the significance of mentorship, and the need for continuous learning. John also highlights the role of personal reflection in developing a positive mindset and effective leadership skills. 


Connect With Our Guest

John D. Marvin - [email protected]

Takeaways

• Understanding consumer behavior is crucial for success in healthcare.
• Building a strong team is essential for a thriving practice.
• Leadership is a team sport, not a one-man show.
• Young professionals should seek mentorship and be coachable.
• Customer service is often the key to patient satisfaction.
• Investing in your team leads to long-term success.
• Mindset plays a critical role in overcoming challenges.
• Personal reflection helps in developing leadership skills.
• Continuous learning is necessary for growth in leadership.
• It's okay to admit you don't know everything.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to John D Marvin
06:09 Understanding the Role of Young Professionals
14:56 The Importance of Team Dynamics
22:54 Investing in Your Team for Long-Term Success
26:42 Building a Team for Success
27:29 Leadership Lessons for New Professionals
35:30 Mindset: The Inner Game of Leadership
42:02 The Importance of Reflection in Leadership

Episode Credits:
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"Identify where you don't want to go."
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodontics
SmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this engaging conversation, Jill chats with Kent Miller to dive into the intricacies of demographics and market analysis within the dental industry, particularly focusing on orthodontic practices. Kent shares his journey from urban planning to founding Dentagraphics, emphasizing the importance of understanding market needs, sustainability, and competition when planning for startups or acquisitions. They discuss the significance of evaluating potential locations, the role of data in decision-making, and the innovative tools offered by Dentagraphics to assist practitioners in making informed choices.


Connect With Our Guest

Dentagraphics - https://www.dentagraphics.com/


Takeaways

• Kent Miller is the founder of Dentagraphics, specializing in market analysis for the dental and orthodontic industry.
• Understanding the market for care is crucial for orthodontic practices.
• Sustainability and alignment with personal vision are key for practice success.
• Saturation in a market does not necessarily mean failure for practices.
• Identifying areas to avoid is as important as finding good locations.
• New construction does not guarantee growth; infrastructure matters.
• The right demographics must align with the practice's target audience.
• Data should inform decisions, but it is not the only factor to consider.
• Dentagraphics offers innovative tools for demographic analysis and market insights.
• Entrepreneurship in the dental field requires careful planning and data-driven decisions.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kent Miller and Dentagraphics
03:09 Understanding Market Analysis in Orthodontics
06:00 Key Concepts for Startup and Acquisition Planning
09:01 Evaluating Potential Locations for Practices
12:06 The Role of Real Estate in Practice Success
15:03 Analyzing Competition and Market Dynamics
18:14 Metrics for Success in Orthodontic Practices
22:25 Understanding Demographics in Orthodontics
26:07 The Importance of Growth and Infrastructure
30:29 Navigating Urban vs. Suburban Practices
34:40 Data-Driven Decision Making for Practices
38:16 Innovative Tools for Demographic Analysis
43:05 Final Thoughts and Resources

Episode Credits:
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"It's about that team mentality."
 
Connect With Our Sponsors 
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodontics
SmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this conversation, Dr. Scott Sakowitz shares his entrepreneurial journey from starting escape rooms to opening multiple dental practices. He discusses the challenges and lessons learned from managing multiple locations, the importance of delegation, and building a strong practice culture. The conversation also touches on work-life balance, hiring practices, and the significance of continuous education in maintaining growth. Dr. Sakowitz emphasizes the need for a supportive team and the value of celebrating successes together.
 
Connect With Our Guest
 
Sakowtiz Smiles Orthodontics - https://orlandoorthodontics.com/
[email protected] 


Takeaways

• Dr. Sakowitz's journey began with escape rooms before transitioning to dental practices.
• Opening multiple practices simultaneously can lead to accelerated growth.
• Delegation is crucial for managing multiple locations effectively.
• Work-life balance is essential for maintaining personal well-being.
• Building a strong practice culture requires intentional effort and team engagement.
• Hiring the right employees is a process that evolves over time.
• Celebrating team successes fosters a positive work environment.
• Continuous education is vital for business growth and adaptation.
• Understanding the importance of time management can enhance productivity.
• Creating a supportive team dynamic is key to overcoming challenges.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:30 Entrepreneurial Journey and Practice Ownership
04:42 Challenges and Triumphs of Opening Multiple Practices
10:18 Lessons Learned from Startup Experiences
14:50 Expanding to a Satellite Practice
20:03 The Importance of Delegation and Team Structure
23:41 Continuous Growth and Improvement
25:56 Balancing Work and Personal Life
32:21 Building a Strong Practice Culture
34:30 Hiring for the Right Fit
35:40 Evolving Employee Dynamics
40:48 Empowering Team Members for Success 

Episode Credits:
 
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"You need to understand what you're about to sign."
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodontics
SmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this conversation, Rob Montgomery shares his extensive experience in legal work focused on the dental and orthodontic space. He emphasizes the importance of legal guidance for young dentists, particularly when navigating contracts, lease agreements, and partnerships. Rob discusses common pitfalls in lease agreements, the significance of understanding personal guarantees, and the challenges associated with associate agreements and partnerships. He also addresses the misconceptions surrounding DSOs and encourages young dentists to pursue ownership opportunities while being mindful of the legal implications of their decisions.


Connect With Our Guest

Robert H. Montgomery, III, Esquire, P.C. - https://www.yourdentallawyer.com


Takeaways

• Rob Montgomery has been practicing law for 30 years, focusing on the dental field.
• Young dentists must understand the importance of legal guidance when entering contracts.
• Lease agreements can be complex and often favor landlords, requiring careful review.
• Personal guarantees in leases can pose significant risks for practice owners.
• Associate agreements should clearly outline paths to partnership to avoid future disappointments.
• Partnerships and buy-ins are often the riskiest transactions in dental practices.
• Minority buy-ins in DSOs can lead to unfavorable conditions for dentists.
• Dentists should not feel pressured to work for DSOs; ownership opportunities still exist.
• Having a strong legal and financial team is crucial for success in dental practice ownership.
• Understanding the business side of dentistry is as important as clinical skills.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background of Rob Montgomery
02:53 The Importance of Legal Guidance for Young Dentists
06:00 Understanding Lease Agreements and Common Pitfalls
09:11 Navigating Associate Agreements and Partnerships
11:58 The Risks of Practice Buy-Ins and Partnerships
24:04 Understanding DSO Partnerships and Their Implications
31:17 Navigating Associateship Agreements and Partnership Promises
38:40 Advice for Young Dentists in a DSO-Dominated Market 
 
Episode Credits:
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"You have to win on Google first."
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
SmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this engaging conversation, Jill and Savvy explore the intricacies of orthodontic marketing, emphasizing the importance of building a strong brand foundation, leveraging online reviews, and utilizing social media effectively. Savvy shares insights on the evolving landscape of marketing, including the significance of “EEAT” (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trust) in content creation and the necessity of authenticity in video marketing. The discussion also highlights the role of technology in enhancing marketing strategies and the importance of continuous growth in business.


Connect With Our Guest

Brain Bytes - https://www.brainbytescreative.com/


Takeaways

• Building a strong brand foundation is crucial for orthodontic practices.
• Marketing strategies should evolve with the practice's growth and authenticity.
• Online reviews significantly impact patient trust and practice visibility.
• EEAT (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trust) is essential for effective online marketing and SEO.
• Video content is key for social media engagement and reach.
• Practices should focus on creating a positive customer experience to drive reviews.
• Technology can streamline marketing efforts and improve lead management.
• Authenticity in marketing helps build trust with potential patients.
• Continuous growth is necessary for long-term success in business.

Chapters
 
00:00 From Film to Orthodontic Marketing: A Unique Journey
03:12 Building a Strong Marketing Foundation for Orthodontic Practices
05:57 Understanding Brand Tiers in Orthodontics
09:08 The Importance of Authenticity in Branding
11:59 The Role of Online Reviews in Marketing Strategy
15:00 The Impact of Reviews on Consumer Trust and SEO
17:59 EEAT: The New SEO Paradigm for Orthodontists
23:18 The Importance of Authenticity in Marketing
27:13 Harnessing Social Media for Patient Engagement
34:01 Building a Smart Tech Stack for Practices
41:33 Speed Round Insights and Final Thoughts 
 
Episode Credits:
 
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

“Everything we do is a habit.”
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
SmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this engaging conversation, Lesley Logan shares her transformative journey from a corporate job to becoming a Pilates instructor and coach. She discusses the importance of prioritizing oneself, overcoming perfectionism, and creating space for personal and professional growth. Lesley emphasizes the need for effective goal setting and building habits that lead to success, while also addressing the challenges faced by business owners, particularly in high-pressure environments. The discussion is filled with practical strategies and insights that resonate across various industries, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their personal and professional lives.


Connect With Our Guest

Lesley Logan - https://lesleylogan.co
https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/


Takeaways

• Lesley's journey began with a corporate job that didn't fulfill her.
• Pilates helped Lesley connect with herself and discover her true desires.
• Helping others prioritize themselves leads to better relationships and work environments.
• Perfectionism can hinder progress and should be managed with kindness.
• Creating space in your schedule is essential for personal growth.
• Goals should be broken down into actionable steps that fit into your schedule.
• Outsourcing tasks can free up time for more important activities.
• Building habits requires starting small and being consistent.
• Motivation is not always reliable; focus on creating systems instead.
• Your unique perspective and passion are what set you apart in your field.

Chapters
00:00 Lesley's Journey to Pilates and Self-Discovery
06:11 The Impact of Perfectionism on Business Owners
12:01 Navigating the Challenges of Entrepreneurship
17:53 Creating Space for Self-Care and Growth
24:20 Outsourcing for Efficiency
27:51 Evaluating and Prioritizing Tasks
30:16 The Importance of Delegation
34:21 Setting and Achieving Goals
39:50 Building Effective Habits 

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    
 
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!   
 
Episode Credits:
 
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"Before and afters are crucial for trust." 

Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
SmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this conversation, Kayvan Mott, co-founder of The DocSites, shares insights on effective marketing strategies for orthodontic practices. He discusses common mistakes made by orthodontists, the importance of a strong online presence, and how to leverage reviews and testimonials to build trust. Kayvan emphasizes the significance of SEO and Google Ads in attracting patients, as well as the need for effective landing pages. He also provides guidance on choosing the right marketing partner and the importance of transparency in marketing efforts.


Connect With Our Guest

The DocSites - https://www.docsites.com


Takeaways

• Orthodontists often have a 'set it and forget it' mentality towards marketing.
• Proactive marketing leads to better results for orthodontic practices.
• Websites should focus on building trust and showcasing reviews.
• Convenience features on websites can prevent losing potential patients.
• Internal tracking of patient sources is crucial for effective marketing.
• Google My Business profiles are essential for visibility.
• Quality backlinks are more valuable than numerous low-quality links.
• Landing pages should be tailored to match ad content for better conversion.
• Understanding the importance of reviews can significantly impact practice visibility.
• Choosing a marketing partner requires assessing their experience and transparency.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction to Kayvan Mott and The DocSites
02:31 Common Marketing Mistakes in Orthodontics
05:59 The Importance of a Strong Website
11:53 Leveraging Reviews and Testimonials
17:58 The Future of SEO and Online Marketing
23:40 The Importance of Quality Links
24:47 Optimizing Your Google Business Page
26:54 The Role of Blogging in SEO
27:17 Understanding Google Ads and Patient Quality
29:20 Preparing Your Practice for Advertising
31:48 Maximizing Google Ads Effectiveness
34:47 The Power of Landing Pages
37:11 Choosing the Right Marketing Partner 

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    
 
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!   
 
Episode Credits:
 
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!

"You need to have someone that owns it."
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
OrthoFi From Start to Strength - https://orthofi.regfox.com/from-start-to-strength-october-2025
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/
SmileSuite - http://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this conversation, Jill and Jake discuss the evolution of GreyFinch, the impact of AI on orthodontics, and the importance of maximizing practice management software. They explore how automation can enhance efficiency in dental practices, the significance of open APIs for integration, and future trends in orthodontic software. Jake emphasizes the need for practices to adapt to changing technologies and patient expectations while providing advice on selecting the right software for individual needs.


Connect With Our Guest

Greyfinch - https://greyfinch.com/


Takeaways

• Jake has been in the dental and orthodontic space for almost 20 years.
• GreyFinch aims to change the practice management landscape.
• AI is disrupting traditional orthodontic practices by improving efficiency.
• Automation can help practices reduce staffing needs and improve workflows.
• Open APIs allow for better integration with third-party tools.
• Practices need to identify bottlenecks to improve efficiency.
• The future of orthodontics will heavily involve AI and automation.
• It's essential to have a champion in the office for practice management software.
• Practices should focus on what their patients want, not just what they want.
• Choosing the right practice management software is crucial for long-term success.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jake and GreyFinch
02:51 The Impact of AI on Orthodontics
05:58 Maximizing Practice Management Software
08:53 Automation in Dental Practices
12:05 Understanding and Implementing New Features
15:01 Identifying Bottlenecks and Workflow Efficiency
20:34 Automating Collections and Workflow Efficiency
21:37 Understanding Open APIs and Integrations
24:10 Future-Proofing Your Practice Management Software
25:55 The Role of AI in Practice Management
28:38 Adapting to Change in the Orthodontic Industry
31:55 Key Considerations for Choosing Software
35:32 Final Thoughts and Industry Trends 

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    
 
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   

New episodes drop every Thursday!   


Episode Credits: 
 
Hosted by Jill Allen
Produced by Jordann Killion
Audio Engineering by Garrett Lucero

Are you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?

Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.
   
If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   
 
New episodes drop every Thursday!