The Driven Dental Podcast

We flipped the script for this episode.

Operations Manager, Frankie, steps in to interview Matt Robinson—COO and co-founder of Operation Dental—for a real conversation on how Operation Dental got started, what the journey has actually looked like, and where it’s headed next.

No script. No overthinking. Just an honest look at the wins, the challenges, and the lessons learned along the way—plus a few laughs and perspectives you won’t hear anywhere else.

In this episode of the Driven Dental Podcast, our guest host, Dave Womble, Chief Marketing Officer at Operation Dental, sits down with Dr. Nirh, partner dentist at Sandmine Dentistry, to explore his journey from associate to solo dentist of a thriving de novo practice.

Reflecting on the first two years, Dr. Nirh unpacks how adopting an ownership mindset, prioritizing patient-centered care, and committing to constant learning fueled extraordinary growth, including an average of 150 new patients per month, surpassing $1.4 million in first-year revenue, and building a loyal team culture rooted in quality and communication. He emphasizes the power of preparation, relationship-building, and creating standout experiences that engage all five senses. From front desk to treatment rooms, every detail supports retention and reputation, making his office a place patients love to return to and tell their friends about.

In this episode of the Driven Dental Podcast, our guest host, Dave Womble, Chief Marketing Officer at Operation Dental, sits down with Dr. Nirh, partner dentist at Sandmine Dentistry, to unpack his path from Orlando to UCF, Tufts University, and a GPR at NYU Lutheran in Brooklyn during COVID leading up to becoming the force behind one of Operation Dental’s most successful start-ups.

Together, they discuss what it takes to launch and grow a de novo practice. They cover leadership habits that keep his team strong, the patient-first mindset that drives loyalty, building trust with a new team, community growth, and how embracing modern technology like scanners, CT, and 3D printing fuels growth.

In this episode, we sit down with a seasoned dental assistant who’s transitioned to the front desk — bringing clinical experience directly to patient conversations. With years of hands-on chairside insight, she now plays a pivotal role in treatment plan presentations, patient education, and case acceptance.

We explore:

- The unique advantages clinical experience brings to front office communication

- Strategies for simplifying complex treatment plans for patients

- How to build trust and rapport from the first phone call to financial arrangements

- Real-world examples of what works (and what doesn't) in treatment presentations

- Common patient objections — and how to overcome them with empathy and clarity

This episode is packed with practical tips to help anyone in the office increase case acceptance and elevate the patient experience.

Content Warning: This is extremely intense subject matter. If you are around children or not in a good mental state, this may not be the episode for you. If you are able to listen, however, you will hear the story of one of the bravest people you will ever meet, Leigh Ann. 

Estrella is an amazing dental hygienist who brings two decades of clinical experience, insight, and heart to the conversation. From mastering the art of patient care to confidently presenting treatment recommendations, she shares the lessons learned from thousands of hours in the operatory.

We dive into strategies for handling every type of personality that walks through the door, tips for building trust with patients, and how to communicate effectively—even when conversations are tough. Plus, we explore what it really means to be a great team player and how to foster a culture of support, respect, and collaboration within the practice.

No matter your role in the practice, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and real-world stories that will inspire and elevate your entire team.

In this episode, we sit down with the President of Leaders Real Estate (leadersre.com), Nate Palmer, who has developed over 600 urgent care centers nationwide. We explore the strategic frameworks behind site selection, lease structuring, buildouts, and market analysis—and how these principles apply directly to dental practice growth. This conversation bridges the gap between urgent care scalability and dental practice expansion. If you’re a dentist considering de novo growth, multi-site operations, or simply want a sharper lens on real estate as a strategic asset—this episode is for you. 

In this episode, we discuss all things dental assisting with an in-depth conversation with lead dental assistant and trainer, Nesh Agosto. From patient care to chairside efficiency, Nesh shares firsthand insights into the vital role dental assistants play in a thriving practice.

We’ll discuss:
✅ A day in the life of a dental assistant
✅ Essential skills for success in the role
✅ Challenges and rewards of working in dentistry
✅ The impact of teamwork in a dental practice
✅ How to greatly reduce your supply cost

Whether you're a dental professional, aspiring assistant, or just curious about the people who keep dental offices running smoothly, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in for an engaging and informative discussion! 🎧🦷

In this deeply inspiring episode, we’re joined by Dr. Tim Davidson, a cancer survivor whose journey has profoundly shaped his outlook on life, work, and relationships. From facing life’s biggest challenges to finding strength in the unexpected, Dr. Davidson shares how surviving cancer transformed his perspective and priorities.

 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The emotional and physical challenges of battling cancer and finding resilience.
• How surviving a life-threatening illness reshapes your outlook on work and career priorities.
• The importance of meaningful connections and how adversity strengthens relationships.
• Key lessons about gratitude, purpose, and living life to the fullest.
• Practical advice for anyone facing their own challenges or supporting loved ones through tough times.

This conversation isn’t just about surviving—it’s about finding purpose and embracing what truly matters in life. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or a reminder to cherish the little things, this episode will leave you feeling uplifted and motivated.

 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful stories and life-changing perspectives.

In this episode, we’re diving into our 2025 game plan and sharing the lessons learned from a $10 million revenue increase in 2024. While we celebrated incredible growth, our profitability wasn’t where it should have been. This year, our mission is clear: build a stable, profitable company.

 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Revenue vs Profit: Why higher income doesn’t always translate to higher profit and the true cost of growth.
• Understanding EBITDA: The metric banks use to measure profitability and how it impacts borrowing power.
• Profit & Loss (P&L) Basics: A step-by-step look at tracking income, managing expenses, and uncovering opportunities for savings.
• Proven Strategies to Boost Profitability:
  • Using data to maximize efficiency.
  • Cutting overhead with simple hacks like re-negotiating supplier contracts.
  • Patient retention strategies to combat rising acquisition costs.
  • Encouraging organic growth by optimizing operations and case acceptance.
  • Creating an ownership mentality.

 Whether you’re running a dental practice or any other business, these lessons and strategies will help you achieve sustainable growth while maintaining profitability. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on leadership, business strategy, and profitability.