"It's not just a transaction."

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!, Jill sits down with Doug Copple to discuss the evolving landscape of orthodontic partnerships, highlighting trends in the transition market, the structure of partnerships, the buy-in process, and the financial and tax implications involved. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the dynamics of partnerships and the necessity for both parties to act like owners to ensure a successful collaboration. Jill and Doug also go over the complexities of family practice transactions and the importance of aligning treatment philosophies. They also delve into the financing aspects of partnership buy-ins, emphasizing the need for clear communication and understanding between partners to ensure successful collaborations.


Connect With Our Guest

Bentson Copple Patterson & Associates - https://bcp-advisors.com/


Takeaways

• Doug has been in the orthodontic industry since 2004.
• The DSO market has significantly impacted orthodontic practices.
• Partnerships are becoming more common among younger doctors.
• Partnership deals can take years to form and require careful planning.
• The buy-in process typically involves an association period before ownership is transferred.
• Financial modeling is crucial for understanding partnership dynamics.
• Both parties must be comfortable with the financial outcomes to avoid resentment. Doctors should consider tax implications in family practice transactions.
• Effective communication with CPAs is crucial for financial planning.
• Partnerships require clear agreements on decision-making authority.
• Understanding treatment philosophies is essential for successful partnerships.
• Financial transparency is key to avoiding conflicts in partnerships.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
02:01 Doug’s Background and Firm
05:08 Why Partnerships Are Rising
09:10 How Partnerships Are Structured
14:13 Buy In Timeline and Profit Split
22:39 Modeling the Deal on Paper
25:45 Tax and Entity Structure Basics
27:39 Family Transactions Tax Traps
31:17 CPA Communication Gaps
32:29 Partnership Control Rules
35:40 Discretionary Spending Fights
38:34 Treatment Philosophy Clashes
41:15 Financing and Real Estate In The Deal
46:15 Contact Info 

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 don't fix a $30,000 problem with a discount."
 
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!, Kira Woods shares her journey in creating UpTracker, a web-based platform designed to improve inventory management in orthodontic practices. She discusses the importance of understanding both macro and micro aspects of inventory management, the evolution of systems from manual tracking to technology-driven solutions, and the need for customization based on practice size and needs. Kira emphasizes the significance of purchasing habits and the often-overlooked process of verifying vendor invoices as critical components of effective inventory management. The discussion also covers common areas of overspending, particularly in bonding materials and disposables, and offers strategies for startup practices to establish a solid foundation for inventory management.


Connect With Our Guest

UpTracker - https://www.up-tracker.com/


Takeaways

• Kira Woods started Uptracker to address inventory management issues.
• Doctors need to see both macro and micro inventory data.
• Many practices rely on one staff member for inventory management.
• Purchasing habits can significantly impact supply spending.
• Invoice verification can lead to quick returns on investment.
• Clerical errors in invoices are common and costly.
• Understanding true costs includes more than just product prices. If you don't check invoices, you're agreeing to whatever they decide to charge you.
• The right amount to spend right now is crucial for staying on goals.
• Incentivizing staff can lead to better budgeting outcomes.
• Bonding materials can be a significant area of overspending.
• Startups should prioritize visibility in inventory management.
• The goal isn't less inventory, it's smarter inventory.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
04:58 Why Inventory Gets Ignored
06:21 Macro vs Micro Inventory
08:52 From Sticky Notes to Scanning
15:02 Customizable Inventory Strategy
16:26 Purchasing Habits and Spend
24:23 Verifying Vendor Invoices
29:57 Real Time Budgeting Basics
32:56 Staff Incentives And Culture
34:29 Common Spend Leak Examples
37:50 Startup Inventory Playbook
41:34 Cross Training And Controls
44:40 UpTracker Contact Info 

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 a business killer.”
 
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!, Jill Allen interviews Dr. Anthony Bonavoglia, an orthodontist and founder of SmileSuite, about the evolution of patient communication in orthodontics. They discuss the importance of managing new patient inquiries effectively, adapting to modern communication preferences, and the role of automation and bots in enhancing patient experiences. Anthony shares insights on how SmileSuite has streamlined the new patient call process and the significance of providing a human touch in patient interactions. They dive into the importance of human interaction in patient communications, the evolution of call handling in dental practices, and the impact of technology on patient satisfaction and practice efficiency. The discussion also covers innovative strategies for improving new patient acquisition and the overall growth of orthodontic practices.


Connect With Our Guest

SmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/


Takeaways

• Dr. Anthony Bonavoglia is an orthodontist with 20 years of experience.
• SmileSuite focuses on handling new patient phone calls for practices.
• The importance of quickly converting leads into appointments is vital.
• Many practices struggle with managing patient inquiries effectively.
• Patients prefer various communication methods, including text and online forms.
• Automation can enhance efficiency but should not replace human interaction.
• Understanding generational communication preferences is essential.
• Creating a positive first impression is crucial for patient retention.
• Data shows a significant increase in patient bookings with effective call handling.
• Practices can benefit from outsourcing call management to improve efficiency.
• Patient satisfaction is directly linked to how calls are handled.
• Asking about additional needs during calls can increase patient bookings.
• Virtual consultations can qualify patients without taking up doctor time.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
01:35 Anthony Background and SmileSuite
04:18 Missed Calls = Lost Patients
06:19 From Contact to Contract
08:31 Speed to Lead Systems
11:48 Generational Communication Shifts
15:08 Call Scripts and Consistency
21:49 Automation Bots and Human Touch
24:11 AI Assisted Humans
26:47 Conversion Lift Data
30:47 Triage Beats Voicemail
32:59 Referral Slip Save
34:34 Call Tips That Convert
37:15 Contact Info 

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!

AI is replacing Google as the first stop for orthodontic patient research, and most practice websites are invisible to it. In this episode of Hey Docs!, host Jill Allen sits down with Mary Kay
Miller, Owner and CEO of Kaleidoscope AI™, and Jeff Slater, VP of Operations, to unpack what's changing, why traditional SEO alone no longer protects your practice, and how the new KAL™ AI Growth System helps orthodontists get recommended by ChatGPT, Google AI
Overviews, Perplexity, and Gemini. Kaleidoscope AI™ is launching KAL™ at the AAO Annual Session in Orlando, May 1 to 3, 2026. Stop by BOOTH #1115 to scan the QR code and request a free AI Visibility Audit.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Why showing up in AI results today does not mean you are safe tomorrow (the "false security" problem)
• The shift from rankings to recommendations and what that means for orthodontic marketing
• A quick AI readiness self-check any practice can run in 10 minutes
• What AI engines actually look for: content depth, trust signals, structured authority, review data
• Why the average orthodontic practice scores below 40 out of 100 on AI visibility
• How KAL™ audits, optimizes, and monitors your practice across AI search platforms
• Why early movers in any market will lock out competitors who wait

KEY QUOTE

"Early adopters will have a decided advantage." — Mary Kay Miller, Kaleidoscope AI™

ABOUT THE GUESTS

Mary Kay Miller is Owner and CEO of Kaleidoscope AI™, the digital marketing agency widely credited with introducing SEO to the orthodontic industry nearly two decades ago. She leads the development of KAL™, the AI Growth System purpose-built for orthodontic and dental practices. Jeff Slater is VP of Operations at Kaleidoscope AI™, where he leads client services and the rollout of KAL™ across the orthodontic industry.

CONNECT WITH KALEIDOSCOPE AI™

Website: https://kaldental.ai
Free AI Visibility Audit: https://kaldental.ai/audit

RESOURCES MENTIONED

- The AI Referral Shift (blog):
[https://kaldental.ai/ai-rreferral-shift-orthodontists-2026/]
- KAL AI Visibility Guide (free download):
[https://kaldental.ai/ai-visibility-guide/]

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction
02:20 A new AI audit coming to AAO 2026
05:48 From rankings to recommendations
08:54 Quick AI readiness self-check
12:32 Website content and trust signals
16:22 Showing up now isn't enough
23:18 What AI looks for next
27:01 Review data and trust
29:00 Authority and site structure
31:28 The KAL™ Audit System
38:44 SEO vs. AI visibility
43:00 Startup advantage and speed
44:35 How to contact Kaleidoscope A™ and request a KAL™ audit

SPONSORS

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

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 is not set it and forget 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 episode of Hey Docs!, Jill sits down with Jordan Janz from Cornerstone Computer Solutions to share his expertise on crafting a solid IT foundation for dental and orthodontic practices. He discusses the importance of early technology planning during the startup phase to prevent costly delays and ensure smooth operations. Jordan highlights the need for tailored IT infrastructure, including cabling and network security, to support practice growth. He also explores the differences between cloud-based and server-based management software, emphasizing the importance of network security to ensure a practice’s long-term success. The episode covers ongoing cybersecurity best practices, such as Zero Trust architecture, and the benefits of proactive IT support models.
 
Connect With Our Guest
 
Cornerstone Computer Solutions - https://cstonesolutions.net/


Takeaways

• Start IT planning during the startup phase to avoid delays and save money.
• Tailor your IT setup, including cabling and security, to fit your practice's needs and growth.
• Understand the differences between cloud-based and server-based software for better security.
• Wired connections can provide from reliable internet than Wi-Fi.
• Implement ongoing cybersecurity measures like “Zero Trust” architecture.
• Regularly assess your current IT systems to identify vulnerabilities and upgrade safely.
• Opt for proactive over “reactive” IT support models to minimize downtime and enhance efficiency.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
02:46 Startup Tech Priorities
05:08 Four Phases of IT
06:49 Engage IT Early
09:24 Launch and Support
12:51 Cloud Networks and Cabling
17:55 Internet Speed and Redundancy
23:24 Downtime in Established Practices
29:30 Proactive vs Reactive IT
31:50 Monitoring Standards Explained
34:57 Cybersecurity Zero Trust
37:17 Startup Budget Options
40:43 IT Red Flags Checklist 
44:21 Contact Cornerstone 

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 don't have to be physically connected to something that’s in your office."
 
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!, Jill sits down with Reid and Kevin Simmons from Planet DDS to dive into the evolution of orthodontic technology and practice management. They discuss the transformation from the early days of software development to the cutting-edge advancements in cloud-based solutions, particularly with Cloud 9. The conversation highlights how AI and industry shifts are reshaping the landscape of orthodontics, offering new opportunities for efficiency and growth. Reid and Kevin stress the importance of continuous training and consultation to ensure successful technology adoption.


Connect With Our Guest

Planet DDS - https://www.planetdds.com/


Takeaways

• Reid started Orthotrac, which served a pioneering role in ortho software since the 1980s.
• There’s been a shift from traditional to cloud-based systems.
• Cloud 9, now part of Planet DDS, has been at the forefront of cloud-based solutions.
• Cloud technology can reduce cost and improve accessibility.
• AI has a growing influence in scheduling, documentation, and financial management.
• Integrated software ecosystems can benefit multi-specialty practices.
• Continuous training and consultation is essential in new technology adoption.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
02:06 Reid Simmons’ Journey
07:35 Kevin Simmons’ Journey
11:01 Planet DDS Merger Vision
15:44 Industry Shifts Since 2010
24:30 AI and API Ecosystems
26:48 AI Beyond Email Hacks
27:50 Transcription to Treatment Plans
29:09 Roadmap Driven by Customers
30:54 True Cloud Explained
36:18 Next Five Years of Tech
38:28 Training and Staying Current
41:52 Where to Learn More 

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!

"Digital is here, it's not the future.”
 
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!, Marlee Maendler from Solventum shares her journey from a chemistry background to leading a digital orthodontics company. The discussion covers the evolution of Solventum from 3M, the importance of practice systems, and the integration of digital workflows in orthodontics. Marylee emphasizes the benefits of digital transformation, patient monitoring, and telehealth in modern practices, offering insights into building a cohesive digital ecosystem for enhanced practice efficiency and patient care.


Connect With Our Guest

Solventum - https://www.solventum.com/en-us/home/


Takeaways

• Transitioning from 3M to Solventum has allowed for strategic brand evolution and focus on digital orthodontics.
• Implementing practice systems and digital workflows is crucial for improving efficiency and patient care.
• Startups have a unique advantage in adopting advanced systems early in their development.
• Digital orthodontics encompasses aligners, bonding, retention, and monitoring, offering comprehensive care solutions.
• Emphasizing value per visit rather than cost can lead to better practice outcomes.
• The future of orthodontics focuses on improving clinicians' quality of life through sustainable practice models.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
01:39 Marylee’s Career Journey
07:54 From 3M to Solventum
11:28 Solventum Name Explained
15:36 Systems Over Products
18:00 Bonding Efficiency Examples
22:04 Startup Practice Advantage
25:21 Startup Systems Matter
26:47 Digital Shift Explained
28:24 Four Pillars of Digital
30:38 Patient Monitoring Mindset
32:15 Differentiating With Tech
35:04 One Ecosystem Advantage
38:26 Efficiency Over Headcount
40:34 Contact Info 

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!

"Women are creating more wealth than ever before"
 
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!, Jill sits down with Brittany Frazier, CPA at Cane Waters and Associates, to explore the monumental wealth transfer happening over the next two decades. They discuss how this shift is shaping financial decision-making, generational differences, and the importance of proactive planning for wealth passage and values-based legacy building within families and practices. They discuss the critical need for early financial education and open family dialogues to ensure a smooth transition of wealth and values. The conversation also touches on the emotional aspects of wealth transfer, advocating for a purpose-driven approach aligned with family values to build a lasting legacy.


Connect With Our Guest

Cain Watters - https://www.cainwatters.com


Takeaways

• $70-90 trillion of wealth will be transferred over 20 years
• Women will become the primary wealth holders and creators of new wealth
• The demographics of inheritors is shifting
• Technology and social media influence financial literacy and investment approaches for new generations
• Conversations about wealth, purpose, and values are essential to ensure smooth succession
• The value of financial education from an early age and ongoing communication within families
• Inherited wealth is often rapidly lost
• Families can prepare for this transfer to approach it with confidence and purpose

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
03:36 Why Money Talk Matters
04:56 Great Wealth Transfer
07:56 Next Gen Wealth Shift
11:04 Small Habits Big Wealth
13:17 How Women Invest Differently
16:48 Confidence and Advisor Gaps
21:29 Next Gen Tech Investing
25:50 Why Wealth Disappears
28:57 Start Money Talks
30:44 Purpose Driven Planning
33:10 Tech Versus Advisors
35:23 Values To Strategy
37:20 Contact Info 

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!

"AI will make staff more efficient, not replace them."
 
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!, Jill sits down with returning guestJake Gulick, the CEO of Greyfinch, to explore the transformative role of AI and automation in orthodontic practice management. They discuss how these technologies are not only reshaping the operational landscape, but also enhancing patient care and business efficiency. Jake shares his expertise on integrating advanced digital tools into everyday practice, offering practical advice on optimizing payment systems and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The conversation also touches on the importance of branding and technology choices in maintaining a competitive edge, as well as strategies for new practices to build a strong foundation.


Connect With Our Guest

Greyfinch - https://greyfinch.com/


Takeaways

• AI is streamlining practice management and patient interaction
• Data security with AI is essential
• Greyfinch is on the forefront of new AI features
• Effective payment strategies and compliance can impact a practice’s financial health
• New practices should focus on building strong foundations
• Automation and outsourcing for efficiency
• Cloud vs. server-based solutions vary depending on the practice
• Balancing work and personal productivity
• Embracing change and continuous learning

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
03:05 AI in Ortho Today
05:57 AI Native in Greyfinch
09:36 Payments and Surcharging
12:27 Surcharge Rules by State
14:34 Reducing Fees Without Losing Patients
21:49 Startup Practice Mindset
24:37 Spend Smart and Build Your Brand
26:53 Learn Beyond Your Industry
28:29 Find the Right Whos
30:51 Workflow Automation Reality
34:56 Personal Time Optimization
38:35 Cloud Versus Server Software
43:33 Greyfinch Contact Info 

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!

“Focus on your practice as a brand.”
 
Connect With Our Sponsors
GreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/ 
SmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/


Summary
 
In this episode of Hey Docs!, Jill Allen sits down with Davin Bickford from WildSmiles Braces. They delve into the transformative shift towards early orthodontic intervention and the pivotal role of patient experience in driving practice growth. As the orthodontic landscape evolves, practices are increasingly focusing on treating younger patients, enhancing patient interactions, and building a strong, recognizable brand. This episode provides valuable insights into how these strategies can help orthodontic practices thrive in a competitive market.


Connect With Our Guest
 
WildSmiles Braces - https://www.wildsmilesbraces.com/


Takeaways

• Focus on treating patients under 14 to build long-term relationships.
• Enhance satisfaction and loyalty through personalized care.
• Establish a strong brand for premium pricing and differentiation.
• Use fun brace designs can attract young patients and build engagement.
• Ensure team buy-in for successful implementation of new approaches.
• Leverage tech and social media to add value and improve outcomes.
• Positioning your practice as a brand, not just a service, can create greater loyalty.
• Watch trends to focus on branding and patient-centered care for future success.

Chapters
 
00:00 Introduction
03:46 WildSmiles Evolution
04:41 Why Under 14 Matters
09:47 Branding Beyond Fees
12:50 Engaging the Ops Pool
14:56 Brackets vs Experience
19:22 Add Value During Observation
22:53 Boosting Observation Conversions
24:55 Overcoming Team Resistance
26:02 CEO Mindset and Market Defense
29:54 Training the Whole Team
33:28 How to Contact WildSmiles 

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!