More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

What actually happens when an unexpected loss or injury shatters the routine of your practice? It’s a question no one wants to ask—until it’s too late. I would like to walk you through the uncertainty that can unfold in a dental practice when the unexpected happens to the doctor at the center of it all. My hope is that you are prepared - nobody told me that, remember?

The sudden loss of a dentist—especially in a solo or small practice—is not just a tragedy. It’s a disruption that ripples through patients, staff, finances, and even the long-term value of the business. What has to happen right away? Should the office close? How do you support a grieving team while still making decisions that keep the doors open?

But death isn’t the only event that can throw a practice into turmoil. I also discuss scenarios like disability, serious injury, or anything that keeps a dentist from returning to work. Each one brings its own emotional and operational fallout, and without a plan, the burden often falls squarely on the manager’s shoulders—right when they’re least prepared to carry it.

And what if the unexpected - good or bad - happens on the other side of the desk? What if it’s you—the manager—who needs to step away, transition into a new career, or start something of your own? We’ll explore how to prepare for your own exit with intention and clarity, making sure the practice doesn’t fall apart the moment you walk out the door.

This is a raw and necessary look at what no one wants to talk about—until it’s already happening. Because if no one else has told you what to do when it all goes sideways, I’m here to help and to make sure you’re not caught in the dark.

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Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

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 *Is your AR out of control? Is your admin team burning out? 😩 Maybe it's time for help. It's easier than you think and you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Have a conversation with Wisdom Dental Billing to see how they can help.

Reach out them here: http://withwisdom.com/teresaduncan 

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I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

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Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

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My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

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Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

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Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#Dental #Dentistry #DentalPractice

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Are you a dentist or manager in a seemingly endless struggle to stay profitable on PPO plans? You're definitely not alone. One of my first trusted resources in dentistry was Unlock the PPO’s Sandi Hudson and Lisa Weber. Sandi joined me for a truly nerdy but very informative chat about networks and negotiations. We talked about the hidden challenges within shared network agreements and how she avoids “over-networking” and helps us understand opt-out procedures.

👇🏻 Connect with Sandi Hudson

Website: https://unlocktheppo.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnlockThePPO/

ADRCC: https://adrcc.org/

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*Medical Billing Made Easy! This curriculum helps you learn if and be compliant with the regulations. Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy 

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I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

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*Is your AR out of control? Is your admin team burning out? 😩 Maybe it's time for help. It's easier than you think and you'll wonder why you didn't do it sooner. Have a conversation with Wisdom Dental Billing to see how they can help. Reach out them here: http://withwisdom.com/teresaduncan

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*Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit www.odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#DentalBilling #DentalInsurance #DentalClaims 

*Thank you to these companies for supporting and believing in the podcast!

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Outsourcing your dental billing can either clean up your RCM  or leave you picking up the pieces. Before you trust someone with your cash flow, make sure you know exactly what to ask and what to look for in a biller.

In this episode, Julia Nevo shares hard-won lessons from working in the world of dentistry and dental billing. We cover what makes a great dental biller truly valuable, and why outsourcing without a solid vetting process can backfire. You’ll learn how to filter for the right skills, systems, and mindset — especially when it comes to handling dental insurance.

We dig into the most common billing mistakes dental offices make, what red flags to watch out for during outsourcing, and how to avoid billers who talk a big game but can't deliver. Julia also explains how a dental biller  can be your extra layer of protection against carrier and legal audits.

Whether you're considering outsourcing or looking to upgrade your current billing setup, this conversation will help you protect your revenue, sharpen your processes, and grow a more sustainable dental business.

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Website:  https://stellardentalsolutions.com/

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Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#DentalBilling #DentalInsurance #DentalClaims

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Missing these insurance secrets could cost your dental practice - are you prepared?

From navigating insurance portals and password overload to the shift toward Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs), the demands on dental teams are growing. Colleen Huff shares insights on handling leased networks, making informed choices about dental insurance, and avoiding the pitfalls that catch many offices off guard.

We also dive into Medicare Advantage Plans—how they’re changing, why benefits might shrink, and what this means for your office. With Medicare benefits in flux, reviewing plans annually is essential to avoid surprises. If your practice isn’t keeping up with Medicare updates, you could be facing unnecessary complications.

Don’t let insurance confusion lead to costly mistakes. Learn how to manage these challenges with smart strategies, proper coding, and the right tools. Colleen also previews her upcoming training modules to help you take control of your dental insurance game. This is for you, insurance nerds!

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Connect with Colleen:

Facebook: Colleen Huff- Dental Insurance Coach

Instagram: @dicoach22

LinkedIn: Colleen Huff

Website: https://colleenhuff.com/

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Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#MedicareAdvantage #Dental #Dental Insurance

"More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter  || "

Dental billing companies can spot embezzlement and cash flow issues faster than your in-house team!

Dental billing expert Michelle Repash shares how she uncovered employee theft by noticing deleted insurance checks - a discovery that led to jail time for a trusted, long-term staff member. With 35 years of dental experience, Repash explains why traditional in-house billing is becoming so difficult due to increasing insurance complexities and team burnout.

She reveals key red flags to watch for, including staff resistance to billing help and shared passwords among team members. Most importantly, she emphasizes the critical need to separate billing duties - the person following up on claims should never be the same person posting payments.

Integrity Dental Billing's founder also shares insider tips for practices not ready to outsource: work rejections immediately, run AR reports consistently, and follow up on claims over 40 days old. For practices ready to make the switch, she offers a $500 first-month discount for podcast listeners. Mention this podcast to receive a $500 courtesy toward your first month! 

Connect with Michelle

Website: Integrity Dental Billing

Facebook: The Dental Billing Collective

Linked In: Michelle (Integrity Dental Billing and Consulting LLC) Repash

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Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#DentalBilling #DentalInsurance #DentalClaims #NPINumbers #DentalPracticeManagement #DigitalBillingSolutions #InsuranceFraudDetection #OutsourcingDentalBilling #ARReportMonitoring #IntegrityDentalBilling #DentalEmbezzlement #ModernDentalBilling #BillingAuditTrail #DentalClaimManagement #PracticeEfficiency

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Leslie Icenogle, CPC, a leading medical-dental billing expert, shared her strategies to maximize your dental revenue through proper medical coding. From documenting procedures correctly to navigating Medicare's maze, she breaks it down for me. She also shared how a chance encounter at a post office led to significant patient benefits - it’s a great story! It demonstrates how proper medical billing can dramatically impact patients. Most importantly, she revealed why many dental offices are leaving money on the table by not exploring medical billing options. You know I perked up about that topic! 

FROM LESLIE, A CLARIFICATION ON ONE POINT:

Medicare Part B, DME-covered appliances (with an actual sleep apnea diagnosis, MD referral, an appliance that meets their criteria, etc.):

• Non-participating DMEPOS suppliers can accept assignment on a case-by-case basis: If you do NOT accept assignment: There is a Medicare stipulation for DME providers only, which says if you are enrolled as a non-participating DME provider and assign benefits to the patient, you may collect your fees in full from the patient. In this case, and this case only, you are not limited to the Medicare allowable.
• If you DO accept assignment: Medicare will pay 95% of the limiting fee, and you can collect/charge up to 15% above that fee. (Take the limiting fee (say $3,000) times 95% ($2,850), then times 115% ($3,277.50). In this example, you would charge the patient $3,277.50 and no more—since you accepted the assignment on this case.) The EOMB would tell you that (what the deductible and co-insurance amount is)--as I am sure you know.  

Participating suppliers that accept assignment are limited to Medicare's approved amount for that appliance.

Connect with Leslie

Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

Email: [email protected]

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I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

Are you signed up for my newsletter?

Watch this episode on YouTube!

Ever wonder what happens when a sterilization tech becomes a practice optimizer for a 50-person dental office? I sat down with someone who lived that exact journey, and her insights might surprise you. 

Meet Erika Pusillo, who shares her transformation from handling sterilization duties to optimizing one of Florida's leading dental practices. Our conversation touched on the challenges and triumphs of managing a large dental team, including the delicate balance of associate relationships and the art of keeping talented team members engaged. Erika opens up about her own moments of doubt, near-resignation, and ultimate growth into a respected practice leader and coach. I was impressed with her refreshingly honest perspective on feedback, humility, and what it really takes to evolve beyond the traditional office manager role. Whether you're managing two team members or fifty, her insights are  invaluable for any dental practice leader.

Key Takeaways:

• Communication is crucial between practice owners and managers
• Regular check-ins (quarterly for doctors, every 3 months for team members) are vital
• Success requires going beyond the 9-5 mentality
• Create opportunities for growth within your existing structure
• Give first, monetize later when pursuing speaking/coaching

Additional Bulletproof Dental podcasts featuring Erika 

• https://www.bulletproofdentalpractice.com/113-the-power-of-alignment-and-delegation-for-you-and-your-om-with-erika-pusillo/

• https://www.bulletproofdentalpractice.com/great-teams-start-with-great-leadership-werika-pusillo/

•  https://www.bulletproofdentalpractice.com/top-3-things-your-om-should-be-doing-with-erika-pusillo/

Connect with Erika 

Email: [email protected]

Find her through: Spodak Dental and Bulletproof Dental Practice

https://www.spodakdental.com/

https://www.bulletproofdentalpractice.com/

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I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

Are you struggling to find the right office manager? It might be costing you more than you think!

In this episode, I’m sharing how to avoid the common hiring mistakes many dental practices make when choosing the perfect manager. I’ll explain why clear job descriptions are crucial, how to prevent overloading managers with unrealistic expectations, and the key traits to look for during the hiring process.

Key Takeaways:

• Clear job descriptions are essential to avoid overloading your office manager with unrealistic expectations.

• Focus on hiring the right manager by assessing key traits like communication skills, confidence, and problem-solving ability.

• Is promoting from within the right step? 

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I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

My insurance course is out! Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

Along with my quick wrap up of 2024 I thought that I'd share two words that have helped me in difficult situations. Perhaps they'll come in handy for 2025 and the many decisions to come. The simple words "unless" and "until"  have helped me get to the root of objections and set boundaries. Don't worry - I'll give you examples!

What You'll Learn:

• Set Boundaries Effectively: Learn how I use "until" to create clear boundaries when encountering new situations.

• Find Real Reasons: Asking someone “unless what happens?" can be uncomfortable but I share why it's so important. Sometimes people are too nice to give you the answers you need to grow as a person and a manager.

• Imperfection Is Okay: As you go through 2025, remember to give yourself grace and permission to mess up. Perfect people don't grow because they have nothing to learn from. Besides, perfect people are annoying 😄 

2025 is going to be fantastic - I just know it. How do you feel about your resolutions and goals? I'd love to know!

More About My Passion Project: I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Members will have access to business building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond “what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

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https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

-------------

My insurance course is out! Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

Ted Osterer returns to the show to discuss recent bankruptcies and sales in our industry. Large companies are experiencing shifts and they have teams of advisors. How can a smaller dental business learn from these mistakes and strategize for their own success? Ted shares how understanding key financial metrics like EBITDA, cost of goods, and margins has become essential in the dental industry. Businesses have to use data instead of intuition.What about offices that haven’t had that kind of training? Now is the time. Now more than ever, business owners must adopt a mindset of financial clarity to make smarter decisions. 

Key Takeaways:

• The impact of DSOs on dental business practices is a double-edged sword, with positive financial insights but also challenges in maintaining company culture.

• The recent wave of mergers and acquisitions in the dental industry, like Patterson going private and BIOLASE’s bankruptcy, will likely reshape the sector.

• Education and customer success initiatives can be powerful but require long-term commitment for real results.

• To navigate current pain points, dental offices are encouraged to adapt, whether it’s adjusting payment policies, working more hours, or improving treatment presentations.

• There’s optimism for a consumer confidence rebound in 2025, with a rise in entrepreneurial tactics and a slow but steady industry recovery.

Visit The Synergy Dental Partners:

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase. 

-------------

My insurance course is out! Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment. 

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don’t forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast! 

**If you like the show then I’d appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#businessgrowth, #dentalpractice, #financialmetrics, #keyperformanceindicators, #businessdecisions, #profitmargins, #financialstrategy, #dentalfinance, #practicemanagement, #dentibusiness, #practicetips, #smartbusinessdecisions, #financialsuccess, #businessperformance, #metricsthatmatter, #dentalpracticgrowth, #businessprofitability, #dentalindustry, #financialplanning, #keybusinessmetrics, #practiceperformancetips