What if your marketing isn't the problem—but your expectations are? In this episode, Dana and Sandy welcome Grace Rizza, the powerhouse behind Identity Dental Marketing, to break down why most dental campaigns fall flat—and what actually works. From unethical agencies to underfunded ad budgets, Grace unpacks the truth most marketers won't say out loud.

If you've ever felt burned by a marketing agency, overwhelmed as a startup, or scared to go fee-for-service—this one's for you.

You'll learn how to:

✅ Spot the difference between strategic marketing and expensive guesswork ✅ Avoid wasting thousands on low-quality leads and poor conversion ✅ Set realistic expectations for Google Ads and SEO ✅ Know when your marketing isn't the problem—your front desk is ✅ Confidently budget and brand your way to sustainable growth

📓 Listener Challenge: Review your last 6 months of new patient numbers. Are you tracking the right data? Is your marketing converting—or just collecting clicks?

Key takeaways:

👉 You can't market your way out of bad conversion. Start with honest analysis. 👉 Dabbling in ads (like $1,000/month on Google) is worse than doing nothing. 👉 Fee-for-service practices need stronger branding, not just lead generation. 👉 Your front desk is your filter—train them or waste your marketing dollars. 👉 Success starts with realistic expectations and total ownership of your results.

🔊 Special thanks to our sponsors:

📣 Identity Dental Marketing – Strategic, ethical, brand-aligned marketing that works. Learn more at identitydental.com

🦷 Plan Forward – Build and grow a profitable dental membership plan with ease. Learn more at planforward.io

📲 Join the conversation! What marketing myths have you had to unlearn? Share your experience in the Dental Drill Bits Facebook Group—we may feature your insight in a future episode!