When starting a private orthodontic practice during a global pandemic, most people would play it safe. But not Dr. Ashley Kisling. In this Greatest Hits Series episode, she shares how she launched her San Clemente-based startup during COVID-19 without a clear marketing strategy.

The thought of spending hours on social media to grow her patient base felt overwhelming. She nonetheless opened social media accounts, as businesses usually do.

It didn’t take long for her to start seeing the power of TikTok for orthodontic marketing.

In just one year, Ashley took her practice from zero to 7 figures in revenue using TikTok. But she wasn’t just posting dance moves or trending videos. She focused on one thing: education.

Ashley’s TikTok isn’t filled with gimmicks or viral challenges. It’s packed with bite-sized, informative content that educates parents and kids about orthodontic treatments. And it worked big time for her.

She breaks it all down and explains how she used TikTok to attract new patients and build a loyal community.

Listen now and learn how you can leverage the same strategy to grow your practice. 

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

How Dr. Ashley Kisling got into Ortho (00:38)

Launching an Ortho startup at the height of COVID-19 (04:57)

Growing a brand-new practice to 7 figures in one year (11:27)

How to use TikTok in your Ortho Practice (16:06)

Working with influencers in your local community (23:20)

Social media best practices (27:46)

Getting your patients to sign a photo release for social media (32:56)

Creating good hooks for TikTok (34:21)

Why it pays to be authentic in social media (40:17)

Additional Resources

- Dr. Ashley's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@socopdo

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Today’s 5-Minute Friday is all about a topic that’s bound to get people talking: private equity. I know it stirs up strong opinions, but stick with me. I am giving the reasons why now could be a really interesting time to at least take a look at what private equity-backed OSOs have to offer.

I’ve seen a lot of deals, had boots-on-the-ground experience with Smile Doctors, and watched the five-year investment clock tick away. We’re getting close to another cycle, and if you're paying attention, you’ll see why that matters.

Even if you're not thinking of selling, there’s no harm in getting an offer. You might be surprised what your practice is worth.

Beyond the money, there’s serious value in the support, the systems, and the freedom that comes with handing off the stuff you hate doing. HR, marketing, bills... all gone.

I’m not here to sell you; I just want to make sure you’re thinking with facts, not fear. 🎧 Give it a listen. You’ve got nothing to lose and maybe a lot to gain. 

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

What private equity is and how it functions (00:54)

The five-year investment cycle (01:19)

Smile Doctors nearing equity event (02:33)

Why PE-backed OSOs are a strong opportunity (03:10)

Why now is a good entry point (04:08)

Non-financial benefits of joining OSOs (05:54)

Why now is a good entry point (06:20)

Importance of getting a valuation (07:08)

Additional Resources

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

In this episode of the Greatest Hits Series, I welcomed back the legendary Dr. Ron Roncone to discuss the art and science of creating an ultra-efficient orthodontic practice.

Dr. Roncone walks through the origin and evolution of his JSOP (Just Short Of Perfect) system, detailing how he dramatically cut down on appointments, increased production per team member, and maintained clinical excellence.

He combined a powerful blend of strategic scheduling, consistent clinical protocols, and staff accountability. He shares specifics that brought remarkable results, including reduced emergencies and improved case acceptance.

We also talked about the deep importance of verbal skills in case acceptance and why many orthodontists end up retreating cases due to poor foundational decisions.

The episode is a masterclass in orthodontic thinking and systems for any orthodontist looking to run their practice better from someone who has done it all. Tune in!

 Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

The strive for efficiency in orthodontics (02:03)

Reduce appointments and eliminate emergencies (07:29)

$600,000 production per team member (10:48)

Smart scheduling strategies (21:01)

Occlusion and treatment philosophy (35:56)

The cost of ignoring basic occlusal principles (41:46)

Continuing education in orthodontics (49:18)

Additional Resources

- Dr. Ron Roncone's Course: The Just Short Of Perfect (JSOP)

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

This episode might ruffle some feathers, and I’m totally okay with that because sometimes you need a little disruption to shake things loose.

I’m diving into something I taught before - how to actually live your best life. It's a simple but powerful four-quadrant framework that’ll help you figure out where your time and energy should go.

You should be living in the box where you’re doing stuff you love, and you’re great at. But most of you are stuck in boxes full of things you can do but don’t enjoy and it’s draining the life out of you.

I also dig into the “Cross of Life”—balancing family, health, work, and belief. If you get yourself out of balance, you’re going to crash. And listen, stop defining yourself as just an orthodontist. That’s not your legacy or why you’re here.

Listen in to this 5-minute Friday to hear more about living your best life.  

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

Life is engineered, not accidental (00:47)

Introducing the “proof box” framework (01:36)

Balance the four corners of the “cross of life” (05:04)

Don’t define yourself by your profession (07:48)

Change lives, not just smiles (10:32)

Additional Resources

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

What does it take to build and run a billion-dollar orthodontic empire? Jay Hedrick - CEO of Smile Doctors, knows the answer firsthand.

I had the honor of having a conversation with Jay, an experienced executive with a wealth of experience in private equity-backed companies. He sheds light on what it's like running a multi-billion-dollar orthodontic organization and the day in the life of a CEO.

Among many other interesting insights, Jay dispels the myth that corporate orthodontics is focused solely on profits. Smile Doctors prioritizes creating value for patients and doctors alike to ensure a win-win scenario for all stakeholders.

This episode provides a behind-the-scenes peek into private equity in our profession, equity opportunities, and what drives a successful OSO.

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

Jay Hedrick's background and career journey (00:52)

Day-to-Day Life of a CEO (12:13)

Private Equity and its Role in Smile Doctors (14:44)

Equity and value creation in Smile Doctors (20:53)

Joint venture model and its benefits (26:36)

Bolt-On and De Novo strategies (30:13)

Cultural alignment and patient care in OSO/DSOs (32:51)

Advice for orthodontists joining OSOs or DSOs (35:21)

Additional Resources

- Smile Doctors: https://smiledoctors.com/

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- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Are you thinking about hiring an associate? You might want to rethink that decision.

Last week, I talked about opening a satellite and why it might be your biggest mistake and in this episode, I’m breaking down why bringing an associate into your orthodontic practice might be another big mistake you can make.

I've received countless messages from people who think hiring an associate will automatically reduce their working hours or increase their revenue.

The reality is that bringing on an associate often means more work (not less), at least for the first year or two. It can be an uphill battle, especially if you don’t have the right systems in place.

I will explain the core reasons why associateships often fail, from the mismatch of expectations to the financial realities that many don’t realize.

You can’t just hire someone and expect them to grow your practice automatically. Most associates don't make the kind of impact you expect, even if you give them all the resources they need.

Focusing on your existing practice, maximizing efficiency, and even raising your fees could be the better approach. By doing this, you’ll have a more profitable and less stressful practice without the added complications an associate can bring. Tune in to hear more!  

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

The truth about associates and work-life balance (00:52)

Why associates rarely increase practice profitability (01:35)

How raising fees might be the answer to growth (04:16)

Satellite offices and associates dont work out as people think (07:31)

Additional Resources

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

You might be losing as much as half a million dollars on unanswered calls. That’s right.

In this Greatest Hits Series episode, I sat down with Scott Hansen - cofounder of OrthoChats and now LeadSigma, who shared ways why your practice may be bleeding revenue without even realizing it.

Scott has built and sold tech that revolutionized patient communication. Now, he’s tackling the next big bottleneck: converting leads. His new company, LeadSigma, focuses on automating and improving how orthodontic offices respond to inquiries - using smart systems and cutting-edge AI.

We unpack Scott’s five-step framework that tripled his practice, how missed calls cost you hundreds of thousands, and why the orthodontic industry can learn from the hyper-responsive world of home services. Scott also shares the next frontier in AI and what it will mean for your front desk team and new patient scheduling.

If you are looking for ways to scale your practice efficiently, this is the episode for you.

🎧 Tune in and discover the simple changes that can drive massive growth.

 Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

Scott’s start in orthodontics (03:12)

Creation and sale of OrthoChats (06:04)

Birth of LeadSigma from a real-world problem (11:21)

Five steps that tripled his practice (16:18)

The true cost of missed calls in your practice (22:40)

Scheduling, show-up rates, and recalls matter too (27:34)

Where AI fits in orthodontic operations (31:36)

LeadSigma's future with AI voice agents (33:51)

Additional Resources

- LeadSigma Website: https://leadsigma.com/

- OrthoChats Website:  https://orthochats.com/

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- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

I want to talk about something I see way too often. Orthodontists itching to open a satellite location. On the surface, it feels like a good move. More locations = more patients = more money. But it’s not that simple.

I’ve been in those shoes. I've had the conversations. I’ve made the spreadsheets. And I’ve also seen what really happens when you try to split your time, energy, and team across two locations. It’s not usually a fairytale ending.

In this 5-minute Friday episode, I break down why I believe most satellite practices are a mistake, and why you’re probably better off growing your current practice instead of chasing growth somewhere else.

I’ll show you how doubling down where you are can be the smarter, more profitable move.

Hit play now and let’s talk about smarter ways to grow. 

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

Is opening a satellite practice a risky move? (00:47)

The operational and staffing complications (02:02)

Scaling an existing practice vs. opening a new one (03:27)

The second biggest mistake orthodontists make (04:13)

Additional Resources

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

I’m going to be straight with you, some of you are making a massive mistake, and it’s driving me crazy. I keep hearing, “I’m having a down year, I can’t afford CE.” That’s complete BS. You can’t afford NOT to invest in yourself.

Even the most successful orthodontists still invest heavily in learning and those struggling should be increasing their educational spending, not cutting it.

Skipping CE because ‘money’s tight,’ is just lying to yourself… you’re sabotaging your practice, your family, and your future.

If you’re having a tough year, THAT is exactly why you need to double down on learning. You have patients counting on you, a family depending on you, and no one else is going to fix this for you but YOU.

In this 5-Minute Friday, I’m giving you a little tough love, because someone needs to say it.

If you’re stuck, it’s time to shake things up, and the best way to do that? Get to a course. Go to a meeting. Hire a coach. Do something different.

No orthodontist should ever be in a position where they can’t afford to invest in their own success.

Listen now, and let’s get to work. 🔥

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

The biggest mistake orthodontists make (00:42)

“I’m having a bad year” isn’t an excuse (01:04)

High earners still prioritize education - why don’t you? (03:01)

If you’re struggling financially, you should spend more on education (03:47)

Stop blaming external factors and take responsibility (04:21)

Additional Resources

- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs

Have you ever wondered what running an orthodontic practice and Disney World have in common? Dr. Jason Kaplan shares how the legendary customer experience principles from Disney can enhance orthodontic care, improve patient interactions, and create a standout practice.

Dr. Kaplan also shares his personal experience with Smile Doctors, debunking common myths about OSOs and DSOs, and discussing the benefits he’s seen in his practice.

Beyond the business side, he explores the importance of financial wisdom, why you should give to your family while they need it, and the joy of spending on experiences rather than just accumulating wealth.

We also talk about gratitude, fitness, and how taking care of yourself first leads to success in all aspects of life. If you’re looking for ways to level up your practice and your mindset, this is a must-listen!

🎧 Hit play now and discover how to build a fulfilling life and career!  

Key Takeaways

Introduction (00:00)

Dr. Kaplan’s journey into orthodontics (00:41)

Myths about OSOs & DSOs (06:06)

The value of retirement planning & generational wealth (15:22)

Applying Disney’s customer service model to orthodontics (27:27)

Gratitude and its impact on business & life (39:04)

Dr. Kaplan’s fitness transformation and its benefits (44:46)

Additional Resources

📚Books Mentioned

- Die with Zero by Bill Perkins: https://www.diewithzerobook.com/welcome

- Lessons from the Mouse by Dennis Snow: https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Mouse-Applying-Secrets-Organization/dp/0615372414

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- Register for the OrthoPreneurs Summit 2025: http://opsummit2025.com/

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

- Join our FREE Facebook group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OrthoPreneurs