In this episode of The Tooth Sleuth Podcast, Greg Essenmacher welcomes back Dr. Martin Mendelson for a powerful second conversation—one that dives deep into mindset, leadership, and the thoughts that quietly shape our lives and practices.

Dr. Mendelson, a dentist-turned-coach and author of One Move Makes All the Difference, breaks down why happiness leads to success (not the other way around), how the space between stimulus and response determines our outcomes, and why teams thrive when psychological safety and accountability coexist.

This episode blends neuroscience, emotional intelligence, real-world leadership tools, and humor—offering practical frameworks clinicians and teams can apply immediately.

If you've ever felt stuck reacting instead of responding, or sensed your team could be healthier, calmer, and more aligned—this conversation is for you.

Key Topics Covered

• Why happiness is the driver of success—not the reward

• The TEAM framework: Thoughts → Emotions → Actions → Results

• Responding vs. reacting under stress

• The power of the pause between stimulus and response

• Creating psychological safety and accountability within teams

• Preventing "jumping to catastrophe" in leadership and communication

• Why mindset work is essential for sustainable growth in dentistry

• Insights from Martin's new book One Move Makes All the Difference

Key Takeaways

✔ Mindset always precedes outcomes ✔ Small pauses can create massive change ✔ Strong cultures are built intentionally, not accidentally ✔ Leadership begins between your ears

About the Guest

Dr. Martin Mendelson is a speaker, certified coach, and author of One Move Makes All the Difference: How to Find Your Power and Transform Your Life. With experience spanning clinical dentistry, education, emotional intelligence, and happiness studies, Martin helps individuals and teams get out of their own way and lead with clarity, intention, and purpose.

🔗 Website: martinmendelson.com 📘 Book: One Move Makes All the Difference (available wherever books are sold)

About the Host

Greg Essenmacher is the founder of GnA Consult and host of The Tooth Sleuth Podcast, where he explores the business, leadership, and human side of dentistry—helping teams improve patient experience, case acceptance, and long-term sustainability.