In this episode, we sit down with Dina Lynch Eisenberg, JD, EMBA, CEO and Founder of Talkola, to unpack a problem many dental practices feel but rarely name: shadow friction.

Dina brings over 30 years of experience as a mediator, organizational ombuds, and former healthcare attorney, having resolved more than 6,000 workplace conflicts for organizations like Bank of America, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Coca-Cola, and Twitter. Now, through Talkola, she’s helping leaders use science-backed AI to practice difficult conversations before tension quietly erodes culture, performance, and profitability.

Together, we explore:

→ What “shadow friction” looks like inside dental practices, even when things seem “mostly fine”

→ Why dentists struggle with hard conversations and what really happens when issues are avoided

→ How unspoken tension impacts patient experience, front-desk flow, hygiene schedules, and team morale

→ The real financial cost of unresolved conflict, from turnover to lost production → Dina’s FACTS framework for navigating tough conversations without HR training or a psychology degree

→ Why practicing difficult conversations builds confidence and transforms leadership effectiveness

🎁 Bonus for listeners: Dina is offering her Preamble Guide, a practical resource to help dentists start difficult conversations clearly and confidently.

Reach out to Dina directly to receive it. Contact Dina on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dina.eisenberg

This episode is a must-listen for dentists who want stronger teams, better communication, and a healthier practice culture without burnout or drama.