Advertise on podcast: Beyond Bitewings

Ash is joined by Taylor Black from Eckard Enterprises to discuss oil and gas investment opportunities, with a focus on how these can serve as alternative income streams for dentists and other high-income professionals. Taylor explains their approach to transparency, direct ownership, and risk mitigation for clients interested in oil and gas, particularly in mineral rights and working interests. They also talk about how oil and gas compares to other asset classes like traditional real estate and the stock market, highlighting its potential for consistent passive income and unique tax advantages. Taylor also covers the misconceptions about entering the oil and gas industry, the importance of direct ownership, and strategies for distributing investment risk. Taylor also reviews expected returns, the benefits of using IRA and Roth strategies, and the flexibility of exit options for investors. Real-world examples and important due diligence tips are provided for listeners considering oil and gas as part of a diversified portfolio. To find out more about Taylor, visit: https://eckardenterprises.com/taylor-black/ Key Topics Discussed: Oil and gas investments as alternative income streams for professionalsEckerd Enterprises’ approach: transparency, experience, and direct ownershipExplanation of mineral rights vs. working interestsPortfolio diversification and risk mitigationEntry points and capital requirements for investorsTax strategies, including 1031 exchanges and Roth conversionsDue diligence and questions to ask potential sponsorsExpected returns and cash flow mechanicsImportance of direct ownership and flexibility in exiting investmentsUse cases for dentists and high-income earners looking for passive income

In this episode Ash sits down sits down with Zane from MyDentalForce at the SWDC show to discuss practical strategies for dental practices aiming to improve their operations and collections. Zane, a software engineer with hands-on experience as a technology director in a dental group, shares how leveraging existing patient databases can unlock significant revenue without increasing marketing spend or overloading staff with multiple software platforms. The conversation focuses on how MyDentalForce’s solution prioritizes actionable patient outreach, task management, and integrations with phone systems to help offices reactivate patients, monitor staff productivity, and manage accounts receivable more effectively. Ash and Zane talk about the importance of human touch in patient communications and how real-time analytics and AI-supported summaries can help owners and managers see tangible improvements within two to three months, all while consolidating software costs. To learn more, visit: https://mydentalforce.com/ Key topics discussed: Using data from existing patient databases to drive revenueSimplifying and consolidating software tools for staff productivityUnderstanding unscheduled treatment plan value and patient reactivationReal-time task lists and prioritization for front desk teamsIntegration with phone systems for tracking staff performanceHuman vs. AI-automated patient communicationManaging accounts receivable through targeted patient outreachFlat-rate pricing and implementation detailsThe practical role of AI features in dental office operations

In this episode of Beyond Bitewings, recorded live from the Southwest Dental Conference, Herb Ford from Brown and Brown (formerly Wallace Specialty) joins Ash to discuss the common misconceptions about insurance coverage for dental practices. They discuss the critical differences between general liability, cyber, and professional liability insurance, emphasizing that many practice owners may be less protected than they realize. Herb offers real-world examples of how insufficient or misunderstood coverage can leave practices exposed to significant risks, especially with increasing cyber-attacks and the complexities around group benefits and business operations. Herb also talks about the role of umbrella insurance and how it offers additional liability protection—but not for every type of coverage, such as property damage. The episode provides practical advice on how and why dental professionals should consider group policies, disability insurance for staff, and key person coverage to maintain practice continuity. The discussion wraps up with tips for protecting both personal and business assets and recommendations for addressing gaps in current insurance strategies. To connect with Herb, you can call him at: 972-663-5195 Or email him at herb {at} bbrown.com Key Topics Discussed: General liability, cyber, and professional liability insurance: what’s covered and what isn’tCybersecurity, cyber insurance, and why IT providers are not a substitute for insuranceThe purpose and limits of umbrella insurance for dental practices and individualsGroup benefits for dental practice staff, including health, disability, and life insuranceDisability, business overhead, and payroll protection insurance to maintain business continuityThe importance of entity professional liability coverage for practices with multiple associatesBusiness interruption and extra expense insurance for property-related disruptionsEmployee dishonesty and theft coveragePractical advice for practice owners on assessing and improving current insurance coverage

Ash welcomes Dr. Corey Malnikof, and they discuss his journey from struggling clinic owner to leader of 24 successful healthcare practices. They talk about the early challenges he faced, including serious financial setbacks, and how critical moments and strong mentorship led to a major shift in his mindset and business approach. Dr. Malnikof explains that personal development, intentional leadership, and a focus on systems are key factors in rapid growth. He examines how lessons from outside the healthcare industry, including companies like Starbucks and Ritz-Carlton, helped him build a distinct culture and training structure within his clinics. Dr. Malnikof also talks about the importance of discipline, consistency, and ongoing self-improvement, not just for practice owners but across the entire team. He also outlines practical steps for healthcare professionals who feel stuck, including tracking statistics, understand key business metrics, and seeking out mentors or peers who are already achieving your desired results. To connect with Dr. Corey, visit: https://www.coreymalnikof.com/ Key Topics Discussed: Dr. Corey Malnikof’s early business challenges and financial strugglesThe importance of mentorship and mindset shiftsApplying lessons from industries like Starbucks and Ritz-CarltonBuilding intentional culture and training within clinicsThe role of discipline and consistency in business growthPractical approaches to developing and implementing systemsTracking and analyzing practice statistics for growthThe value of ongoing staff reviews and open communicationSeeking guidance from mentors and outside high performersHow a leader’s behavior is reflected in the team and practice

Ash welcomes Dr. Dave Rominski of the Doctor Referral Institute to discuss how dentists may be missing a huge amount of profit and the ability to have a more sustainable business. They talk about a common challenge many dentists face: having a packed schedule without seeing that busyness translate into greater profitability, and why it can change your practice by having intentional referral relationships. Plus, they discuss why these referrals attract not just more patients, but the right patients and cases for your practice. Dr. Dave shares why simply filling your calendar doesn’t guarantee financial success, what truly influences provider-to-provider referrals, and how you can create a predictable referral system that improves both your case mix and your bottom line. Several points were raised, including how to identify your most valuable patients, the role of practice data and KPIs, and strategies for building and maintaining strong referral networks. Tune in to learn how shifting your focus from patient volume to relationship-driven growth can set your dental practice apart. To connect with Dr. Dave, visit: https://referralsfordoctors.com/ Key Topics Discussed: Impact of referral quality versus patient volume on profitabilityIdentifying and tracking ideal patient profiles and referral sourcesThe role of KPIs and practice management software in monitoring referralsValue of consistent, dedicated efforts in referral relationship buildingCommon mistakes in managing referral systemsImportance of educating and communicating with referring providers and their staffStrategies for diversifying and maintaining referral sources

We're revisiting this important episode about what we call BAM, an essential financial metric for dental practices. BAM stands for the Basic Amount of Money Needed to Operate the Practice, a monthly cash flow target that covers not only overhead and loan payments but also the doctor’s take-home, retirement contributions, and other foreseeable necessary expenses. The conversation explains why BAM is not the same as breakeven or net income and highlights common mistakes dentists make when evaluating practice finances. We talk about the practical steps for calculating BAM, noting the importance of using both historical and projected figures. Listeners learn to account for staffing changes, equipment purchases, rent adjustments, loan payments, and anticipated growth. The episode also addresses how BAM serves as a basis for staff bonus systems and why it should be reviewed annually to remain accurate and fair. Other considerations include handling unique expenses like retirement plan changes, owning versus leasing property, and whether to include discretionary spending. Key Topics Discussed: What BAM (Basic Amount of Money Needed) means for dental practicesThe difference between BAM, breakeven, and net incomeWhy BAM is a monthly cash goal based on collections, not productionHow BAM factors into staff bonus systemsAnnual recalculation of BAM and handling large changes (“baby BAM”)Adjusting BAM for new hires, anticipated expenses, and growth projectionsThe treatment of rent, including owner-occupied propertyAccounting for loan payments, including deferred or interest-only periodsWhether to include retirement contributions and discretionary spendingThe effect of BAM calculation on practice planning and financial management

Ash welcomes Dr. Ruth Mannschreck to discuss lessons learned from selling her dental practice and outlines practical steps for dentists preparing to transition out of ownership. They discuss one of her biggest mistakes: not preparing early enough for the sale, which resulted in leaving value on the table when Dr. Ruth sold her practice. She explains why it’s critical to consider not just the financial aspects but also operations, team culture, and personal goals well in advance of selling. Dr. Ruth also covers key areas that practice owners should address, including increasing practice value, decreasing risk for buyers, identifying competitive advantages, and ensuring the business can run smoothly without the owner. She suggests involving the team in the transition process, even encouraging interactions between staff and potential buyers before a sale is finalized. The episode wraps up with Dr. Ruth's advice on creating a self-sustaining practice and her offer of a free checklist for those looking to prepare for a future sale. Key Topics Discussed: Early preparation for selling a dental practiceDetermining your post-sale goals and non-negotiablesIncreasing practice value through team, systems, and cultureReducing buyer risk by addressing dependencies and diversifying referralsPractice branding and its impact on the saleInvolving your team in the buyer selection processBuilding a competitive advantage beyond financialsCreating a self-sustaining, turnkey operationHandling challenges with delegation and letting go of controlFree practice transition checklist resource

In this episode, Ash and guet host, Erin discuss whether it is still worth buying a dental practice in today’s changing landscape. They talk through how the dental industry has shifted over the past decade, with urban market saturation, shifting reimbursement rates, and the rise of DSOs (Dental Service Organizations) creating a more complex environment for new and current dentists. Ash shares that while owning a practice used to be the standard end goal for most dental professionals, now the decision requires more individual consideration and careful research into location, business model, and personal goals. The conversation touches on the pros and cons of both starting up a new practice and buying an existing one, as well as alternatives like joining a DSO or seeking equity in a group practice. Ash emphasizes the need for self-awareness, understanding your appetite for risk and business management, and the importance of factoring in potential exit strategies. The episode closes with practical advice on evaluating your own goals and considering all options before committing to practice ownership in a rapidly changing dental industry. Key Topics Discussed: Shifting trends in dental practice ownershipImpact of urban market saturationDifferences between buying a practice and starting upRise and influence of DSOs in the dental industryImportance of location and demographicsRole of business models: PPO, Medicaid, fee for serviceLender requirements for dental startupsAdopting existing practice culture versus building your ownDSO purchase structures and seller lock-insAssociates getting equity and alternative paths to ownershipGenerational differences in career goalsBurnout risk and planning for exit strategies

In this episode, marketing strategist and entrepreneur Sean Garner joins the show to discuss how AI is changing the landscape of marketing for dental practices. Sean outlines the evolving definition of SEO, now known as Search Everywhere Optimization, emphasizing the need for practices to show up wherever patients are searching, from Google to ChatGPT and social platforms. He breaks down the four main pillars of SEO: technical SEO, user experience, content, and authority, explaining how each is critical to digital visibility and practice growth. The conversation covers common pitfalls of relying solely on external marketing agencies, highlighting the importance of strong collaboration between dentists and marketers for authentic, unique content. Sean provides practical solutions for time-strapped practitioners, including the use of CEO time and video podcasts to generate content that reflects their expertise. The episode wraps up with actionable advice on website audits, collaboration strategies, and why balancing AI tools with human context gives practices an edge in a competitive market. To find out more and connect with Sean, visit: www.SeanGarner.co/BeyondBitewings Key Topics Discussed: Shifts in marketing driven by AI and new search behaviorsThe evolution from traditional SEO to Search Everywhere OptimizationThe four pillars of effective SEO: technical, user experience, content, and authorityCommon pitfalls in outsourcing marketing and how to avoid themThe importance of authentic, unique content versus generic AI-generated articlesStrategies for collaborating with marketing agencies and maximizing owner inputThe value of CEO time and content repurposing through video podcastsTools and approaches to auditing website technical SEO and content structureCollaborating with other practitioners for increased authority and visibilityDifferentiation, competition, and mindset for practice growth

Ash speaks with mental health counselor Priyanka Abul Khair about the realities of burnout in the dental profession, especially among practice owners. They discuss how burnout often goes beyond physical exhaustion and is usually rooted in unresolved relational stress and open loops—tasks or conversations that weigh on the mind. Priyanka explains how these open loops, avoidance of difficult conversations, and unaddressed team dynamics create persistent stress that vacations or surface-level strategies do not resolve. The discussion covers the subtle ways burnout shows up in high-achieving health professionals, the difference between high standards and overfunctioning, and the importance of recognizing the freeze response in the body. Priyanka shares practical steps for breaking the burnout cycle, including awareness, regulation, and the long-term work of repair. They also talk about the importance of seeking help and looking inward for lasting change. To find out more or connect, visit: https://www.priyankaabulkhair.com/ Key Topics Discussed: Understanding burnout among dentistsThe concept of open loops and their mental impactAvoidance of difficult conversations and its consequencesRelational vs. financial sources of stressTeam turnover and the underlying causesAttachment styles and burnout in high performersThe freeze response and its effect on leadershipMisleading productivity and overfunctioningPractical steps: awareness, regulation, repairThe importance of seeking help and inner reflection

Ash welcomes Jennifer Christiansen, Co-Founder and CMO of Beacon Media and Marketing, for an in-depth discussion about the growing impact of AI in dental marketing and business operations. Jennifer shares her journey as an early adopter of technology and details how AI is reshaping digital marketing, particularly the ways prospective patients find and choose dental practices. She explains how traditional SEO strategies are evolving into an AI-driven landscape, where personalized, expert-authored content is critical for standing out in AI-powered overviews and search results. They also discuss practical tips for dentists and small business owners aiming to leverage these changes. She highlights the shift in consumer behavior toward zero-click searches and the importance of transparency, especially with pricing and service details. The conversation also touches on how AI can enhance internal operations—improving efficiency in communication, appointment scheduling, and even diagnostic processes. Key Topics Discussed: Jennifer Christiansen’s approach to adopting AI in marketingDifferences between traditional SEO and AI-driven searchHow AI is shifting the way patients find dental practicesImportance of personalized, credible content and expert authorityThe rise of zero-click searches and AI-powered overviewsTransparency with service information and pricingHow AI can enhance internal practice operationsThe impact of AI on niche dental practicesAdvice for small business owners navigating AI adoptionEthical considerations and maintaining control amid rapid changeWhere to find more resources and direct contact information for Jennifer

Ash welcomes Dr. Jordan Romano, an internal medicine hospitalist and experienced expert witness to discuss the legal aspects of dentistry and the importance of proactively protecting a dental practice from legal risk. Dr. Jordan Romano explains the role of expert witnesses in malpractice and professional liability cases, particularly their responsibility to define and evaluate the standard of care. He highlights how involvement in expert witness work not only supports the legal system but can also make clinicians more conscientious and careful practitioners by exposing them to real-life cases where things went wrong. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Jordan Romano focuses on the practical elements that help mitigate legal exposure, such as robust documentation, effective communication among team members, and the importance of follow-up procedures. He also addresses common scenarios that lead to liability, the technological challenges surrounding communication, and the value of periodic system reviews or peer evaluations. To learn more and connect with Dr. Romano, visit: https://medicalexpertwitness.com/ Key Topics Discussed: The role and responsibilities of a medical expert witnessUnderstanding and applying the standard of care in dentistryProactive strategies for reducing legal exposureImportance and challenges of clear documentationEffective team communication within dental practicesManaging referrals and patient follow-upLegal discoverability and safe use of technologyTeam member liability and the "captain of the ship" conceptIdentifying and addressing high-risk procedures or momentsSystem audits, peer review, and study clubs for practice improvementStandardizing and securing communication and documentation practices

In this episode, Ash sits down with Jen Lee, a bankruptcy attorney at Lawyer Success Network with extensive experience advising dental and healthcare professionals. They discuss the common fears and misconceptions surrounding bankruptcy, clarifying that bankruptcy can be a practical financial tool, not just a sign of failure. Jen shares the financial challenges dentists face, including high student loan debt, business loans with personal guarantees, merchant cash advances, and the risks of intertwining personal and business finances. The discussion covers the main types of bankruptcy relevant to dentists: Chapter 7, Chapter 11 (including Subchapter V), and Chapter 13, explaining when each is applicable and what outcomes dentists can expect. They also talk about the importance of keeping business and personal finances separate, understanding cash flow, and seeking professional advice early. The episode also highlights warning signs that should not be ignored, alternatives to bankruptcy such as loan consolidation and practice sales, and practical steps for dentists to reduce financial risk and make informed decisions. To find out more about Jen, visit: https://lawyersuccessnetwork.com/ Key Topics Discussed: The stigma and realities of bankruptcy for dental professionalsCommon financial struggles and sources of debt for dentistsThe risks of mixing personal and practice financesThe importance of understanding and monitoring cash flowAn overview of Chapter 7, Chapter 11 (and Subchapter V), and Chapter 13 bankruptciesHandling student loans and practice loans in bankruptcyImpact of bankruptcy on future financing, credit, and professional lifeEarly warning signs of financial distress and steps to takeAlternatives to bankruptcy and when to consider selling a practiceLegal and financial steps to protect your practice before problems arise

Ash welcomes Matt Gruber, founder of COtingency, to discuss how dental practice owners can safeguard their businesses against unexpected absences and transitions. The conversation covers why even successful practices often remain heavily dependent on one or two key people, and the risks that arise when essential knowledge and operational secret sauce aren’t adequately documented. They discuss how owners can reduce the business's dependence on them, including identifying critical gaps, building resilient systems, and preserving both short-term continuity and long-term succession. Matt also discusses his legal and business experience, highlighting common pitfalls when a founder’s intuition or involvement becomes a liability rather than an asset. They explore scenarios such as sudden health incidents, the involvement of spouses as key players, and operational blind spots that threaten continuity. They also talk about how owners can best document decision-making, how to recognize operational risks, and how to make mindset shifts—especially for owners who tie their self-worth to their business. To learn more about Matt and COtingency, visit: COtingency.com Key Topics Discussed: Owner dependency and risks in dental practicesMotivators for continuity planning (money, time, empowerment, health)Documenting institutional knowledge and secret sauceOperational and relationship breakdowns during sudden exitsDifferences between continuity and succession planningPreparing successors and managing transitionsCommunication strategies for successionSilent operational risks and the role of spousesPractical documentation and empowerment tipsMindset shifts for founders and legacy businessesBenefits of planning for resilience and future opportunitiesBusiness readiness for private equity and acquisitions

Ash continues the conversation with Dave Rosenberg, focusing on building accountability and effective team leadership within dental practices. Dave explains why true accountability starts with clear communication from leadership and outlines how open-ended questions help ensure team members understand both expectations and the broader intent behind their roles. He emphasizes that leaders need to own their communication and be proactive in supporting their staff to understand downstream impacts of their actions so everyone works toward common goals. The discussion covers practical steps for creating an accountability map, highlighting the importance of assigning responsibility to a single person rather than a group or department. Dave also clarifies the difference between motivation and inspiration in the workplace, recommending professionals hire individuals who find personal meaning in the value their business provides. The episode concludes with advice for dental practice owners: model the standards you want to see, address your own behaviors first, and be open about improvement with your team. This approach helps create a culture where team members hold each other accountable and drive stronger results together. For our listeners who own or lead a dental practice, Dave Rosenberg is offering a complimentary 30-minute coaching debrief following today’s conversation on Radical Accountability™. The session is designed to help practice owners identify where accountability is unclear, where decisions slow down, and what adjustments will create more consistent execution from the team. This is not a sales call. It’s a focused working conversation intended to create clarity. https://lockedonleadership.com/debrief Key Topics Covered Accountability as a leadership responsibilityCommunication techniques for leadersCreating and using accountability mapsMindset and workplace cultureDifference between motivation and inspirationMaslow’s hierarchy of needs in the workplaceImpact of individual actions on teamsAddressing performance issues with strong performersLearning responses versus punitive theatricsSelf-reflection and modeling standards as a leaderFirst steps for improving accountability in a dental practiceMeasuring progress in team accountability