In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Scott Sakowitz, an orthodontist, entrepreneur, and—fun fact—former Wheel of Fortune contestant. Scott’s story is a rare blend of bold entrepreneurial thinking and grounded leadership. From launching Florida’s first escape room with his dad while still in dental school, to scaling three ortho practices in a competitive market, Scott is a living case study in how to strategically stretch your comfort zone.

We talk real numbers (like 26% year-over-year growth), the right time to bring on an associate, and what it really takes to build a multi-location practice that doesn’t break you. If you’re feeling maxed out, frustrated with flat growth, or wondering if multiple offices are worth it—this conversation is for you. Scott's calm, thoughtful approach is the opposite of hustle culture... and still delivers massive results.

QUOTES

"This year we're up 26% over last year… but only because I pushed myself to a place where I had to grow."

— Dr. Scott Sakowitz

"I brought on an associate a full year before I needed one. That gave me time to get it right."

— Dr. Scott Sakowitz

Key Takeaways

• Intro (00:00)
• How puzzles led Scott to orthodontics (01:01)
• Opening two practices early to avoid corporate burnout (02:28)
• Adding an associate only when capacity was truly maxed (04:00)
• The secret behind 50% year-over-year growth (06:37)
• Why patient experience > clinical excellence alone (07:07)
• Bringing parents into the treatment area—literally (08:24)
• Building a concierge-style front desk experience (09:45)
• The story of starting Florida’s first escape room (19:13)
• Operational efficiency: how escape rooms sharpened his ortho skills (23:10)
• Being on Wheel of Fortune (25:00)
• What it’s really like to be hypnotized on stage… and pick your podcast host as a dance partner (26:58)

Additional Resources

Listen now—and if you're coming to the final Orthopreneurs Summit, make sure to find us both on the dance floor. No hypnosis required.

Sakowitz Smiles:  https://orlandoorthodontics.com
THE GREAT ESCAPE ROOM: https://thegreatescaperoom.com 

Ready to stop guessing and start growing with intention? Whether you’re thinking about adding an associate, expanding to multiple offices, or just want to enjoy your practice again—this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been looking for.

OP SUMMIT IS THIS WEEK!: opSummit2025.com

- For more information, visit: https://orthopreneurs.com/

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