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The Marketing Truth Every Startup Doc Needs to Hear | Josh Scott of Studio 8E8 and Dr. Toni of Bloom Dental Co. In this episode, Ashley sits down with Josh Scott, founder of Studio 8E8, and Dr. Toni Torres of Bloom Dental Co. for one of the most practical and inspiring branding and marketing conversations we have ever had on this podcast. From building a brand before you have a lease to finding your story when you think you don't have one, this episode is the conversation every startup doc needs before they open their doors. What You'll Learn: Your Story Is Already There: Josh breaks down why every doctor has a story worth telling and how Studio 8E8's process pulls it out of you even when you think you are just a normal dentist with nothing special to say. Brand Versus Business: Should your practice be able to exist without you? Ashley, Toni, and Josh explore why building around your values instead of just your face is one of the most important decisions you will make as a founder. Start Before You're Ready: Dr. Toni reached out to Studio 8E8 before she had a location, a loan, or a lease signed. Her first community marketing event happened before she even broke ground and patients are still walking in a year later because of it. Marketing Is Momentum: Josh explains why startup docs should be leaning into hustle and energy right now and exactly when to start building that momentum before you ever open your doors. Story Driven Creative Meets Performance Marketing: Josh shares how Studio 8E8 has evolved from a pure creative agency into a full branding and marketing partner and why combining storytelling with SEO, digital ads, and social media is the most predictable way to grow a practice. The Discovery Call Decoded: Josh walks through exactly what to expect when you reach out to Studio 8E8, from the first 45 minute discovery call to the packages available and how they customize everything around where you are in your startup journey. Connect with our guests:  Joshua Scott: @joshuascott Studio 8E8: @studio8e8     www.s8e8.com Dr. Toni Torres: @the.joyful.dentist • @bloomdental.co Dr. Ashley Joves: @ashleyjovesdds Thank You to Our Partners Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. Learn more: https://s8e8.com/vslNet 32: The dental marketplace that helps practice owners stop overpaying for supplies. Compare and save at net32.com/themakingof.Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

The Making Of 323 Dentistry with Dr. Brian In this episode, Collin sits down with Dr. Brian, founder of 323 Dentistry in Newhall, CA — a practice built on prevention-first care, fee transparency, and hard-earned pivots. From a bank-robbing former employer to a ground-up build finally breaking ground, Dr. Brian's journey is one of the most raw and relatable we've ever heard. What You'll Learn: From Chaos to Clarity: Dr. Brian's first practice ended with a locked-out office, the police, and a former employer later arrested as the "rolled sleeve bandit." That wake-up call shaped everything that followed. Building 323 Dentistry: After years in corporate and associate roles, Dr. Brian merged two struggling practices, survived COVID, and rebranded around a prevention-first philosophy — where gum pocket measurements of 3-2-3 represent the standard of care, not the exception. Going Out of Network: He walks through dropping insurance contracts, simplifying his fee schedule, and creating a monthly membership model where patients know exactly what they'll pay — no surprises, no confusion. GBT & Salivary Diagnostics: Dr. Brian breaks down Guided Biofilm Therapy, salivary diagnostics, and perio protect trays — and why investing in these tools transformed patient outcomes and hygiene team morale. Hiring & Culture: From 80+ hires over 10 years to a culture-led approach, Dr. Brian gets honest about what he'd do differently — and why clearly defined expectations matter more than finding the "perfect" employee. The Next Chapter: After four years navigating city permits, oak trees, and hillside access, Dr. Brian finally has approval to build a 4,000 sq ft ground-up dental office — with a 3,200 sq ft event and CE space on top. Books Mentioned:  📖 Buy Back Your Time — Dan Martell  📖 The E-Myth Revisited — Michael E. Gerber Connect with Dr. Brian: Instagram: @threetwothreedentistry Thank You to Our Partners Net 32: The dental marketplace that helps practice owners stop overpaying for supplies. Compare and save at net32.com/themakingof.Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. s8e8.com/vslKasper Opportunity Finder: Fill those empty chairs and reclaim lost revenue with one click. Get it free at meetkasper.com/register. Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

This episode serves as the ultimate "Intro" to a brand-new chapter of The Making Of. We aren't just talking about a new office; we’re documenting the evolution of Dr. Rich Constantine as he embarks on his most intentional project yet: Evelina Smiles. Rich pulls back the curtain on his entire career arc—a journey that has seen him go from a high-level Associate to launching his first successful Startup, navigating the complexities of Selling that practice, and now, returning to the arena to build a second startup from the ground up. The Evolution of the Vision This isn't a "how-to" on clinical dentistry; it’s a study of Life Lessons earned in the trenches. Rich discusses how his first practice taught him the mechanics of business, but his second practice is about the soul of the patient experience. What to expect in this episode: The Full Circle Journey: A deep dive into the "Associate to Owner to Seller" pipeline and why Rich chose to do it all over again.The "Second Startup" Advantage: How having a "clean slate" allows you to apply years of trial and error to build something more aligned with your personal values.Wisdom Over Hype: Rich shares the hard truths about what he would do differently this time around—from staffing culture to financial boundaries.Building for Legacy: Why "Evelina Smiles" represents more than just a business; it’s the culmination of every win and loss from his first decade in ownership.If you’ve ever wondered if the grass is greener on the other side of a sale, or if you’re an associate looking for the roadmap to a long-term legacy, this intro episode is your foundation for the rest of the series. Connect with Ashley: Instagram: @ashleyjovesdds Connect with Rich: Instagram @dr.c_smiles Thank You to Our Partners Net 32: The dental marketplace that helps practice owners stop overpaying for supplies. Compare and save at net32.com/themakingof.Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. s8e8.com/vslKasper Opportunity Finder: Fill those empty chairs and reclaim lost revenue with one click. Get it free at meetkasper.com/register.Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

"You can't have beauty without that foundation of health and function." In this episode of The Making Of..., Collin sits down with Dr. Megan of Soleil Dental Co. to pull back the curtain on a truly unique path to ownership. Dr. Megan didn't just decide to open a practice; she decided to build a "village" in her hometown after realizing the standard associate track couldn't contain her vision. Her story is a masterclass in the "Shell-Start"—buying an existing facility with equipment but zero patients. This allowed her to skip the "dirt floor" construction phase while still having a total blank slate to build the culture, brand, and patient experience she dreamed of. Key highlights from our conversation: The Patient’s Perspective: How growing up missing 14+ teeth gave Dr. Megan a level of empathy that most clinicians never experience.The "Unmanageable" Founder: Why she walked away from a potential buy-in to start fresh just 3 minutes from her front door.Integrated Care: Her mission to bridge the gap between dentistry, lactation support, and airway health after her own journey as a mother.The Hybrid Grind: The reality of DIY renovations, hiring a lean team, and the "Founder Shift" required to lead a practice while still working as an associate.If you’ve ever felt like you were "too much" for an associate role, or if you’re curious about how to find a "middle ground" between a cold start and an acquisition, Dr. Megan’s story is for you. Connect with Dr. Megan: Instagram: @MegTheDentist & @SoleilDentalCoWebsite: https://www.soleildentalco.com/Connect with Ashley: Instagram: @ashleyjovesdds Thank You to Our Partners Net 32: The dental marketplace that helps practice owners stop overpaying for supplies. Compare and save at net32.com/themakingof.Kasper Opportunity Finder: Fill those empty chairs and reclaim lost revenue with one click. Get it free at meetkasper.com/register.Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

Collin sits down with Dr. Toni Torres to see how Bloom Dental Co. is flourishing five months post-launch.  1. Clinical & Financial Milestones The Profit Pivot: Bloom hit profitability in Month 3 and doubled it in Month 4, fueled by a successful All-on-X case.The $30k Tax Surprise: Toni shares the relief of a $30,000 tax refund due to startup investment losses—a crucial "cash cushion" as she navigates not yet taking a personal salary.2. Anatomy of a "Wedding-Style" Grand Opening The Results: Beyond the 100+ guests and taco truck, the event was a massive ROI win, with lead assistant Ari scheduling 8-9 new patients on the spot.Toni’s Advice: "Go all out. You only grand-open once. Spend the money to make it exactly what you want."3. Hyper-Local Marketing & The Power of the "Ask" 50+ Five-Star Reviews: Bloom reached this milestone in under six months. Toni’s secret? Being human. She asks patients for detailed reviews to help a small business grow, specifically targeting keywords like "anxiety."Community Roots: From a cover feature in Inspirada Living magazine to raffling gift cards from local med-spas and BBQ joints, Toni is proving that deep neighborhood roots outperform broad digital ads.4. Scaling the Team & Identity The Extern Advantage: Toni is currently cross-training a dental assisting extern to handle both back-office and front-desk duties.The Hygiene Hurdle: Planning to hire a part-time hygienist by May. Collin and Toni discuss the "3x Production" gold standard and the challenge of $60+/hr wages versus insurance denials.Toni's Question: > "If you are in-network, but an insurance provider doesn't cover a specific benefit (like adult sealants), are you contractually obligated to honor the insurance fee schedule, or can you charge your full UCR fee for that non-covered service?" Connect with Toni: Instagram: @the.joyful.dentist • @bloomdental.co Connect with Ashley: Instagram: @ashleyjovesdds Thank You to Our Partners Net 32: The dental marketplace that helps practice owners stop overpaying for supplies. Compare and save at net32.com/themakingof.Kasper Opportunity Finder: Fill those empty chairs and reclaim lost revenue with one click. Get it free at meetkasper.com/register.Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

In this episode, Collin Al-Samarrie talks with Dr. Dixie Mobley, an Air Force veteran and founder of Pearl and Pine Dental Studio. They discuss her rapid transition from military dentistry to building a "bomb-shelter" startup in the Florida Panhandle. Episode Timestamps [00:00] Intro & "This or That" with Dr. Dixie.[05:42] The Origin Story: Following her father’s private practice footsteps.[08:15] Military Life: The elite training and the "dual military" commute struggle.[14:30] The Turning Point: Why she chose a startup over an acquisition.[18:45] Pearl and Pine: The meaning behind the brand and using AI for logo design.[22:10] The Numbers: A deep dive into conventional loans, interest rates, and down payments.[28:30] Construction: Converting a concrete "bomb shelter" into a modern studio.[34:15] The Floor Plan: Designing for 9 ops and a unique "kids' flex space."[39:50] Decision Fatigue: Learning to make $20k choices on the fly.[44:20] Wellness: Running as "unplugged therapy" for the startup grind.[48:05] Advice for Moms & Veterans: "If you aren't building your dream, you're building someone else’s." Dr. Dixie is looking for your advice on: Sound Systems: Sonos vs. Flush-mount ceiling speakers?Signage: Recommendations for national or local sign companies for her interior logo wall.🔗 Connect with Dr. Dixie Instagram: @dr_dixielynnmobleyPractice IG: @pearlandpinedentalstudioThank You to Our Partners Net 32: The dental marketplace that helps practice owners stop overpaying for supplies. Compare and save at net32.com/themakingof.Kasper Opportunity Finder: Fill those empty chairs and reclaim lost revenue with one click. Get it free at meetkasper.com/register.Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

Life, Wellness, and the "Marathon Mindset" In this raw and intimate "living room session," Ashley, Collin, and Brian sit down to pass a single mic and share a major life update. This isn't your typical clinical podcast; it’s a deep dive into the "Not Alone" mission that defines The Making Of. From Brian’s miraculous PET scan results to a surprise marathon challenge and the role of AI in personal wellness, this episode explores the grit required to navigate the "messy middle" of both dentistry and life. Key Discussion Points The Miraculous Update: Brian shares the incredible news that his tumor has responded to chemo and immunotherapy beyond expectations—showing no current evidence of existence on his latest PET scan.The Decision to Act: Despite the clear scan, the team discusses why surgery remains the necessary next step to ensure "dysplastic cells" don't create a monster down the road.The CIM Marathon Challenge: Brian officially puts the "nail in the coffin" by challenging Ashley and Collin to run the California International Marathon (CIM) this December. It’s a 9-month journey from recovery to the finish line.Mindset & Control: Brian reflects on the struggle of losing his identity as an athlete during chemo and how this marathon represents taking back control of his body and health.AI in Wellness: Collin explains how she’s been using Gemini AI as a digital personal trainer and nutritionist to bridge the gap between setting goals and executing them.Plant-Forward Living: The trio discusses the realities of a whole-food, plant-based diet, the struggle for protein, and Ashley’s latest kitchen experiment: a sourdough starter made from macerated grapes.The Power of Prayer: Ashley shares her mindset heading into Brian’s major surgery, leaning on faith and the strength of the community to get through the "rabbit hole" of anxiety.A Special Request for Our Tribe 🙏 Brian is heading into major surgery this week, followed by a stay in the ICU. We are asking our community to rally around the Joves family. Please keep them in your prayers and thoughts for a successful procedure and a steady recovery. No one goes through the "messy middle" alone. Thank You to Our Partners Net 32: The dental marketplace that helps practice owners stop overpaying for supplies. Compare and save at net32.com/themakingof.Kasper Opportunity Finder: Fill those empty chairs and reclaim lost revenue with one click. Get it free at meetkasper.com/register.Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

In this raw, "on-the-go" episode, Brian and Ashley take you on a Thursday afternoon walk in California to discuss the most intense season of their lives. Recorded just after receiving life-changing medical imaging results, this conversation bridges the gap between the clinical "battle" and the human "journey." From the "hangover" of chemotherapy to a radical shift in nutrition, this is a deep dive into what it means to "make" a life when the foundation is shaken. 🎙️ In This Episode, We Discuss: The Miracle of the Scans: Brian shares the incredible news from his recent MRI and PET scans—showing a near-total response to chemo and immunotherapy.The Military Mindset vs. Medical Reality: How Brian’s history as an athlete and physician led to "stupidly optimistic" expectations for chemo, and the humble reality of the "full-body rash" that stopped him in his tracks.Phase 0 of Nutrition: Why they pivoted from a strict Keto diet to a plant-centric, whole-foods approach (and the science of the "Warburg Effect").Fasting through Chemo: Brian explains his experience with "fasted infusions" to mitigate nausea and the "permanent hangover" feeling.The Power Couple Stress-Test: Ashley opens up about the "non-caretaker" side of being a companion—the fights, the frustration, and the grace required to survive a trauma season.Community as Medicine: How a random connection with a doctor in Maine led to a vital "buddy system" with another patient going through the exact same diagnosis.The Road to UCSF: What the upcoming surgery looks like and why "giving up control" was the hardest lesson of all.Connect with The Making Of...: Instagram: @themaking.ofWebsite: www.themakingofpodcast.comAshley: @ashleyjovesddsSponsors: Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. net32.com/themakingofStudio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. s8e8.com/vsl Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

Episode Overview: We are re-releasing one of our most popular and impactful conversations! In this episode, Dr. Ashley Joves sits down with the legendary Dr. Rob Ritter for a masterclass in dental practice longevity, leadership, and the art of the high-end consult. Dr. Ritter shares the hard-won wisdom from his 30+ years in practice, diving into the "benevolent dictatorship" model of leadership, the truth about dropping PPOs, and why valuing your time is the ultimate key to success. Whether you’re a startup owner or a seasoned veteran, Dr. Ritter’s "Apple Store of Dentistry" philosophy will challenge you to elevate every aspect of your practice. In This Episode, We Discuss: The "Benevolent Dictatorship" [06:15]: Why clear leadership and boundaries are essential for a thriving team and practice culture.Dropping PPOs the Right Way [18:15]: How to transition out of network without losing your patient base (and why you should never send a "breakup" letter).The Art of the High-End Consult [26:45]: Dr. Ritter’s step-by-step process for presenting complex, $30k+ cases with confidence.Valuing Your Time [36:38]: Why charging for consultations is the ultimate filter for attracting your ideal patients.Artist vs. Entrepreneur [52:01]: Defining what success looks like for you—whether it’s mastering your craft or building a business empire.Special Announcement: Ready to implement the exact systems Dr. Ritter and his partner, Dr. Chris Ramsey, use in their world-class practice? 👉 Sign Up HERE Connect with Dr. Rob Ritter: @drrobritter Connect with The Making Of...: Instagram: @themaking.ofWebsite: www.themakingofpodcast.comAshley: @ashleyjovesddsSponsors: Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. net32.com/themakingofStudio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. s8e8.com/vslSupport the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

In This Episode, We Discuss: The Physicality of Dentistry: Toni discusses how she combats the postural strain and why ergonomic loupes have been a game-changer for her migraines and neck pain.The $17,000 "Happy Accident": Toni recounts her first All-on-4 restoration case. Relinquishing the Vine: Dr. Ashley Joves reflects on the "forced delegation" of her business, realizing that building a team-led practice has allowed her the freedom to be present for her family during a crisis.The CBCT & AI Debate: Following up on a community question, the duo explores how to maximize technology. Ashley shares the legal importance of "reviewing" vs. "reading" scans to avoid liability.Scrappy Grand Opening Marketing: With the grand opening just two weeks away, Toni shares her masterclass in bartering and community networking:Tacos & Tours: How she convinced a local food truck to park at her office for free.The Trader Joe’s Hack: Ordering bulk flowers in advance to create a "Bloom Bar" for guests.Sponsorships: Landing a specialist to cover the "fancy lavender lemonade" and charcuterie cups.The Power of the Schedule: Toni has officially mapped out her entire year and realized the ultimate goal of ownership: Freedom.Episode Timestamps: [00:10:15] – The "Actionable Ick": When patients grab your hand during surgery.[00:15:30] – CBCT Discussion: Do you charge for the scan, and how do you read it?[00:25:20] – Scaling & Freedom: Ashley on why she's finally ready to "let go of the vine."[00:40:00] – Milestone: Bloom Dental Co. hits its first profitable month.[00:44:30] – The All-on-4 Win: A $17,000 lesson in quoting and specialist partnerships.[00:51:30] – "Tacos and Tours": Leveraging local vendors for zero-cost event traffic.[01:01:10] – The "March Schedule": Why Toni is moving to a 4-day week and owning her calendar.Connect with Toni: Instagram: @the.joyful.dentist • @bloomdental.co Connect with Ashley: Instagram: @ashleyjovesdds Featured Resources & Sponsors: Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. net32.com/themakingofStudio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. s8e8.com/vslSupport the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

In this raw "trifecta" episode, Ashley, Brian, and Collin sit down for a candid update on Brian’s battle with Stage 4 tongue cancer. Recorded just weeks before a life-altering surgery, the team discusses the physical toll of chemo, the overwhelming weight of "decision fatigue," and how the dental community has rallied to support them. This is an unfiltered look at resilience and the reality of navigating a healthcare system in crisis. 1. Life in the "Messy Middle" Family Strength: Brian shares the emotional (and humorous) reality of home life, from their sons shaving their heads in solidarity to a breakthrough moment of faith and empathy with their middle son, Brady.The "Messy Years": Brian reflects on a quote by Chris Dixon: "The messy years make the obvious years possible." He views this grueling season as the "mess" that will eventually become a message of hope.2. Clinical & Dietary Pivots Metabolic Support: Brian details his 72-hour fast leading into his third round of chemo to improve treatment tolerance and "starve" the metabolic pathways of the tumor.The 180-Degree Shift: After seeing rapid growth on high protein, the couple pivoted to a 95% plant-based, whole-food diet inspired by Dr. Valter Longo. Ashley discusses the shift to juicing and "clean" plant proteins like lentils and tofu.Favorable Momentum: Recent imaging shows that while the journey is far from over, the tumor growth has slowed, and the lymph node architecture is improving.3. The Mental Burden: Decision Fatigue The Surgical Plan: Brian explains the upcoming Hemi-Glossectomy (removing half the tongue) and reconstruction using a thigh graft.The Weight of Choice: After researching alternative trials (like Chef Shirley’s non-surgical path in Chicago), Brian speaks candidly about "decision fatigue." When every choice feels like life or death, he has reached a point of mental exhaustion. He finds a strange peace in surgery because it shifts his role from "decision-maker" to "rehab worker."4. Advocacy & A Broken System Access Challenges: Despite being a physician, Brian reveals the "mind-boggling" difficulty of scheduling scans, with major institutions booked out for months.The Power of the Tribe: Ashley discusses her "bulldog" approach to advocacy—leveraging her network to get a patient liaison at MD Anderson in Houston within 30 minutes of a single text.This episode is made possible by: Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. Learn more at https://s8e8.com/vsl Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. Check them out at net32.com/themakingof Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

In this week’s episode, Collin Al-Samarrie sits down with Dr. Toni Torres of Bloom Dental Co. to navigate the high-stakes month leading up to her formal grand opening. From the logistics of hosting a city-sanctioned ribbon cutting to the sudden "panic" of realizing your practice is growing faster than your team can handle, Toni pulls back the curtain on the emotional and operational roller coaster of being four months into a startup. What You’ll Hear in This Episode: [07:05] – Home Life Update[09:40] – The Grand Opening Logistics[16:45] – The Residency Debate[23:05] – The "Imposter" Mindset[27:30] – Clinical Boundaries[33:30] – Hiring Hacks & "Server" Stories[38:40] – The Six-Month Panic[41:45] – Systems for Scale[45:15] – Tech Regrets & Future-Proofing[54:10] – The Sign MiracleCommunity Question: Toni is looking to maximize her CBCT production. How are you utilizing your CBCT beyond just surgical guides? Are you doing airway/sleep screenings for every new patient? Do you charge for the initial scan? Let us know in the Facebook group Connect with Toni: Instagram: @the.joyful.dentist • @bloomdental.co Connect with Ashley: Instagram: @ashleyjovesdds This episode is made possible by:  Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. Learn more at https://s8e8.com/vsl  Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. Check them out at net32.com/themakingof Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

Life in the Making — An Update from Dr. Ashley Joves After a brief hiatus, Dr. Ashley Joves is back in the booth with Collin Al-Samarrie. While The Making Of usually focuses on the grit of dental startups, this episode takes a deeply personal turn as Ashley shares the "life" part of the journey—specifically, the challenging season her family has walked through since December. In this transparent and heart-wrenching episode, Ashley opens up about her husband Brian’s battle with oral cancer recurrence, the reality of navigating a Stage 3 diagnosis, and the critical clinical lessons every healthcare provider needs to hear. In This Episode, We Discuss: The Return to the Mic: Ashley and Collin share a "This or That" icebreaker to settle back into their rhythm before diving into the "meat and potatoes" of life lately.The "Action Potential" Mindset: Why Brian’s "all or nothing" approach to health and life has been both a blessing and a challenge during treatment.The Healthy Patient Paradox: Brian is the "poster child" for health—a non-smoker, fitness enthusiast, and physician who never gets sick. Ashley discusses the shock of finding oral cancer in the one place she never expected: her own home.A Shift in Staging: How a Stage 1 diagnosis in July rapidly evolved into an aggressive Stage 3 recurrence by December, and the emotional toll of receiving that news just days before Christmas.The Power of Clinical Advocacy: Ashley shares a vital lesson on trusting your gut. After an initial biopsy came back negative, her intuition led to a second biopsy that eventually confirmed the cancer.The Treatment Path: A deep dive into the "Kitchen Sink" approach—choosing a combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy (Pembrolizumab) to fight the tumor’s progression before opting for invasive surgery.The Reality of the "Messy Middle": From the physical toll of chemo rashes and weight loss to the emotional weight of telling their children, Ashley and Collin discuss the raw reality of being a "soldier" through trauma.A Note of Gratitude: Ashley and the entire team want to thank this community for the overwhelming outpouring of prayers, messages, and support. This community truly is our extended family. This episode is made possible by:  Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. Learn more at https://s8e8.com/vsl  Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. Check them out at net32.com/themakingof Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

EPISODE 12  “The Business of Branding, Banned Words, and Burst Water Heaters” In this week’s episode Dr. Ashley Joves, Dr. Toni Torres, and Collin dive deep into the "messy middle" of the startup journey—moving from the dry world of legal paperwork into the high-stakes world of branding and insurance. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the "invisible" work of being an owner, this episode is a must-listen. Toni and Ashley pull back the curtain on the mistakes that cost six figures and the aggressive credit strategies you need to secure a massive cash runway before your loan even hits the bank. What You’ll Hear in This Episode:  08:15 – The Paperwork Foundation: PLLC vs. DBA • Why Toni filed for a PLLC • The crucial step of filing a DBA so the bank can actually accept your checks • Why your legal name and your brand name don’t have to be the same 16:40 – Credit Card Hacks: Why you should ask for an $80k limit • Toni’s advice on overestimated monthly spend to avoid a cash flow crunch • Ashley’s "ego bruise": The $100 credit limit increase story  25:30 – The Soul of the Brand: Working with Studio 8E8 • Moving away from the "toothbrush and tooth" logo for a boutique aesthetic  34:15 – Trademark Wars: The $$$$ mistake • Ashley’s horror story of a LegalZoom • Why you have to "defend your mark" once you own it 45:10 – Insurance & Scheduling Hacks • The "Banned Words List" • How Bloom Dental Co. handles no-shows with the "Final Attempt" text  55:00 – What saved Toni’s life this week? • Winning the insurance appeal and finally finishing that Nevada State Board inspection Toni is hitting a technical wall with Open Dental and needs the community’s help! Since Bloom Dental Co. takes so many prepayments, her 'unearned income' reports are showing a negative value for the month once the procedures are completed. The Question: If you take prepayments, is this normal? Are you seeing negative values on your aging reports, or is there a 'secret click' in Open Dental to post these prepayments more cleanly? If you're an OD PRO, let us know! Connect with Toni: Instagram: @the.joyful.dentist • @bloomdental.co Connect with Ashley: Instagram: @ashleyjovesdds This episode is made possible by:  Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. Learn more at https://s8e8.com/vsl  Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. Check them out at net32.com/themakingof Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!

About the Guest: Dr. Hiral Patel is the owner of Solid Smiles in Lewisville, Texas. As an "OG" member of The Making Of community, she transitioned from searching for acquisitions to building her own startup from the ground up in 2019. Episode Summary: Collin and Dr. Patel discuss the full evolution of a startup—from the first "silent" months in 2019 to a thriving, five-op practice seven years later. Hiral gets transparent about the financial struggles of the early years, the importance of "boots on the ground" marketing, and the deeply personal motivation behind her practice: her father’s battle with and victory over oral cancer. She also shares her simplified hiring philosophy and why she wouldn't trade ownership for an associate role for anything. Key Takeaways: A Personal Mission: Hiral opens up about her father’s oral cancer journey (diagnosed in 2014).The Marketing Myth: Hiral shares how she used baskets of cards at local businesses and handwritten thank-you notes to build a patient base when the phone wasn't ringing.Attitude Over Resume: Why Hiral looks for people who are presentable and willing to learn rather than "experienced" staff who might be jaded or stuck in their ways.The Power of Coaching: Hiral utilizes a coach to role-play handoffs and case presentations monthly.Financial Reality: Hiral breaks down her personal pay structure from Year 1 ($23k) to Year 7.Time Stamps: [00:00] Intro: Meeting an OG member of the 14,500+ Facebook community.[05:30] The "Anti-Startup" mindset and opening in August 2019.[12:45] Bootstrapped Marketing: 7-Eleven flyers and Chipotle baskets.[18:20] The "Secret Sauce": Why Hiral’s team still sends 50 handwritten cards a month.[23:40] Outfitting rooms: Why Hiral wishes she did more than 2 ops at the start.[28:15] The Paycheck: From $23,000 in Year 1 to owner-level income.[34:50] Hiring & Firing: The first termination and hiring for attitude.[42:15] The Heart of the Practice: Hiral’s father’s oral cancer story and 10-year recovery.[53:10] Advice for the Grind: "The days are hard, but the years are good."Connect with Dr. Hiral Patel: Instagram: @solidsmilesPractice: Solid Smiles (Lewisville, TX)This episode is made possible by:  Studio 8E8 — Dentistry’s story-driven growth agency for startups. Learn more at https://s8e8.com/vsl  Net 32 — The online marketplace to compare brands and prices so you never overpay. Check them out at net32.com/themakingof Support the show Find Out More Thank you for listening to The Making Of podcast. If you enjoyed it, please share with anyone you think will gain value from the show by clicking on one of the sharing tabs above. SUBSCRIBE to our NEWSLETTER HERE Also, please consider leaving an honest review on iTunes. It helps other listeners find the show, and I would be forever grateful. Questions or comments? Feel free to contact us at - [email protected] Follow us on Instagram or Facebook and improve your dental practice every day! Have you subscribed? Don't miss a single episode!