In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore how dental practices can grow without adding more dental insurance plans. They unpack the real cost of PPO participation, share proven systems that support insurance independence, and explain how strategic marketing attracts patients who value quality care. The episode also features a listener contribution from Dr. Darryl Burke, who discusses increasing clinical value through implant dentistry and investing in skills that elevate profitability and professional satisfaction.

Start 2026 with clarity and confidence. In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share five key decisions every dentist should make to build a more profitable, less stressful practice this year. From setting clear goals to reducing PPO dependence, these strategies are simple, actionable, and proven to work. You'll also learn how to track the right numbers, build a stronger team, and grow high-value services that patients want. Whether you're looking to grow by 10% or just gain more control over your time, this episode will help you create your best year yet.

In this special New Year's Eve episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah reflect on the biggest lessons and transformations dental practices experienced in 2025. From navigating inflation, staffing shortages, and PPO pressures to leveraging marketing and AI, they unpack what set successful practices apart and where others fell short. Discover the key moves top practices made to not only survive but thrive, plus practical advice to make 2026 your most fulfilling and profitable year yet.

In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share a practical plan for dentists who want to move toward a 4-day workweek without sacrificing income. They explain the numbers behind cutting a day, how to raise production per day with smarter dental scheduling, stronger delegation, and a better procedure mix, and how hygiene production can drive steady practice growth—plus when adding an associate dentist actually fits. You'll also hear a quick clinical note from Dr. Omar Montaser on cleaning the isthmus in root canals using activated irrigation.

In this episode, Gary and Naren dive into a major growth opportunity for dentists—sleep and airway services. They talk about why sleep apnea is a serious but often untreated problem, and how dentists can help patients who struggle with CPAP machines by offering easier, more comfortable solutions. You'll also learn how to market these services using the right keywords, how to screen patients, and why this could be a great long-term fit for your practice. Whether you're just curious or ready to jump in, this episode is full of tips to help you start strong and grow with confidence.

In this inspiring conversation, Gary Takacs interviews Dr. Whitney Weiner, periodontist, multi-location practice owner, and Chief Growth Officer at Icon Dental Partners. They explore Whitney's journey from clinician to leader, the power of growing people from within, the oral–systemic connection, and the philosophy of "growth for the right reasons." With real stories of team members rising into transformative roles, insights on HR challenges, and a refreshing abundance-minded approach to dentistry, this episode is a must-listen for dentists committed to building meaningful, people-centered practices.

Your first impression used to happen at the front desk. Now, it happens online—before a patient ever calls. In this episode, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah break down how your website, reviews, and Google profile shape trust in 2025. They explain how small online problems (like a slow site or outdated reviews) can silently push new patients away—and how to fix them. You'll also hear how to make your site faster, easier to use, and more welcoming—with tools like video, real photos, and better content. If you're ready to turn your website into your practice's best conversion tool, this episode is packed with clear, actionable tips to help you start now.

In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah explore how dental teams can not only handle change - but thrive through it. From new technology to shifting patient behavior, change is everywhere. Gary shares real-life stories, mindset tips, and team strategies that help practices stay flexible, focused, and future-ready. You'll also hear a powerful marketing tip from Naren on the 3 biggest SEO mistakes most practices make (and how to avoid them). If you're looking to build a stronger, more confident team that grows with your practice - this episode is packed with simple, actionable advice you can use right away.

In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, host Gary Takacs sits down with Dr. Chris Phelps, dentist, entrepreneur, and certified trainer at the Cialdini Institute, to explore the science behind ethical persuasion and how it applies to dentistry. Dr. Phelps shares how understanding principles such as reciprocity, scarcity, consistency, liking, and social proof can elevate patient trust, improve case acceptance, and strengthen team communication. He also discusses the difference between persuasion and coercion, the power of creating the right mindset before communication (persuasion), and how to ethically apply these concepts in daily practice. Listeners will gain actionable insights into transforming their practice culture through psychology-driven communication and learn how to access training directly from the Cialdini Institute.

In this episode of The Thriving Dentist Show, Gary Takacs and Naren Arulrajah share how to fast-track your dental team's performance in just 90 days using a focused framework inspired by The 12-Week Year. Discover how short-term goals drive long-term success as Gary explains how to prioritize the right objectives, motivate your team through purpose-driven leadership, and use check-ins to sustain accountability. From improving case acceptance and handling emergencies effectively to measuring KPIs like the Accounts Receivable Ratio, this conversation offers practical, proven steps to help your team work smarter, stay aligned, and achieve measurable growth.