What if your practice management software could help spotlight your team and your patients rather than cause tech headaches?
In this episode, Anne Duffy sits down with Mike Huffaker, Chief Revenue Officer of Planet DDS, for a candid conversation that bridges the worlds of retail and dentistry. Mike shares his unexpected journey from high-end fashion sales at Nordstrom and an Italian luxury brand into the complex, relationship-driven landscape of dental technology. He opens up about what drew him to the industry and Planet DDS’s commitment to alleviating the everyday struggles dental practices face with practical, user-friendly software.
The discussion dives deep into the unique leadership challenges within Dental Service Organizations (DSOs), including high executive turnover and the pressures of private equity. Mike underscores the need for a patient-centered perspective and strong organizational relationships, emphasizing that true success comes from understanding clinical realities, not just bottom-line numbers. Listen in as he offers practical, experience-backed advice for new DSO leaders on winning trust quickly, building real alignment, and embracing a culture that puts patients and team members at the heart of every decision.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
How a retail and luxury sales background sharpens leadership in the dental industryThe biggest technology headaches facing dental practices and how to solve themWhy executive turnover is soaring at DSOs and how to build stabilityStrategies for new DSO leaders to gain trust and drive results from day oneThe importance of understanding clinical realities before making big decisionsMethods to foster open communication and build alignment within leadership teamsKey culture-building tips borrowed from world-class customer service playbooksWhy “under-promise and over-deliver” works just as well in dental software as in retailBest practices for keeping dental organizations patient and clinician focusedHit play now to learn how to lead with heart, straight from retail showrooms to dental boardrooms!
Find Out More About Mike Huffaker Here:
Website: https://www.planetdds.com/
Podcast "The Dental Economist Show": https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dental-economist-show/id1725109317
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/huffaker/
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The Future of Dentistry Podcast is the official podcast of Dental Entrepreneur (De), founded by Anne Duffy, RDH. Dental Entrepreneur is the informational hub that provides the insight, knowledge, and data to empower you to make informed decisions about your professional future. To join the movement or to learn more, please visit http://dentalentrepreneur.com .
Events:
The DeW Life Retreat 2026
Organizations:
Santoni
49ers
Panthers
Overjet
Nordstrom
People:
Zig Ziglar
Wardah Inam
Books:
The Five Disfunctions of a Team