“It’s not always about how are we going to do it, but who.” Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Jill Allen presents on the “Who Not How” mindset, urging orthodontic practice owners and managers to stop centering themselves in goal achievement and instead identify the right “whos” (team members, third-party partners, coaches, and tools) to execute. She critiques arbitrary, repetitive goal-setting without plans or resources, and warns against Superman/Superwoman syndrome driven by ego, control, or reluctance to spend. Jill explains the multiplier effect of working with capable people and outlines a hierarchy of business needs—from solid daily operations and systems, to financial stability, market presence and patient experience, innovation and growth, and ultimately freedom. She highlights practical AI “whos,” demonstrating how ChatGPT can rapidly create social media strategy, messaging, and calendars, and how Canva can produce branded templates, bulk posts, and AI avatar videos for tasks like patient instructions. Connect With Our Guest Jill Allen & Associates - https://www.practiceresults.com/ Takeaways Stop asking how and start asking who. The right people get you to your goals faster than any plan.Every successful person has a coach or a "who" helping them level up.Make sure your goals are achievable and backed by a real plan.Superman/Superwoman syndrome is real. Ego and control can keep you stuck.Delegation isn’t a weakness. Trust your team to help you get things done.Building your practice on a solid foundation is essential: daily operations, systems, and the right team members.Give your team members a career path.Your market presence matters. Patients are researching you before they ever walk in the door.ChatGPT can handle social media strategy, SOPs, job ads, blogs, and more in minutes.Canva makes professional, on-brand content creation fast and affordable for any team member.Chapters 00:00 Introduction05:18 Goal Setting Fallacy08:07 Superhero Syndrome Mindset15:44 Multiplier Effect and Picking Whos20:59 Business Needs Pyramid26:49 Whos for Ops Finance and Marketing31:31 Freedom Through Growth34:55 AI as Your Who36:45 ChatGPT for Social Media46:08 Canva Templates and Avatars52:29 Final Takeaways and Next Steps Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.    New episodes drop every...

"You have to have a vision, a strategy, and a story." Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, host Jill Allen talks with Malcom C. Riley, Director of Orthodontic Clinical Education and Early Career at Align Technology, about the evolving landscape for new orthodontic practice owners. Malcom shares his career path into supporting orthodontists and outlines how rising student debt, increased competition, and today’s “Amazon mindset” consumer behavior are changing practice building. They discuss opportunities for startups to differentiate through digital workflows, virtual consults and care, visualization tools like iTero and Outcome Simulator Pro, and social media storytelling, as well as the growing importance of adult orthodontics amid declining birth rates. Malcom explains what makes an aligner-focused model profitable: intentional operations, ongoing education, and community/mentorship. He also highlights Align’s new practice owner program, including courses, team training, and marketing support. Connect With Our Guest Align Technology - https://www.aligntech.com/[email protected] Takeaways New practice owners face higher costs but also unmatched opportunity to stand out with digital-first workflows.Adults are a huge, underserved growth market for orthodontics.Visualization tools turn treatment into an emotional, easy "yes."Consumers today have an “Amazon mindset” when it comes to choosing a practice.Building a practice that’s aligner-focused from day one can improve efficiency and easier than trying to introduce new technology into an established practice.Virtual care builds convenience and loyalty without extra office visits.Orthodontic treatment is shifting from "one and done" to lifelong, repeat relationships with patients.Different generations need different communication styles and approaches.Success comes down to vision, ongoing education, and community/mentorship.Entrepreneurship can feel lonely — leaning on peers and mentors makes a big difference.Align's New Practice Owner Program offers education, marketing, and clinical support to help new doctors grow.Chapters 00:00 Introduction03:40 Career Journey to Align08:07 Align Education Programs10:11 New Owners and Tech Shift11:57 Costs Competition and Digital15:06 Startup Advantage with Digital18:52 Adult Market Opportunity22:22 Communicating Across Generations25:00 Lifelong Ortho Relationships28:32 Aligner Profitability34:03 Community Mentorship Mindset37:44 Digital Workflow Tools41:06 Virtual Care Connectivity44:42 Generational Patient Communication46:44 New Practice Program Pillars52:10 Contact InfoEpisode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- <a...

“The real ROI is what you do with the time back.”Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Jill talks with Matt Miller from DentalMonitoring about how AI-powered remote monitoring is reshaping orthodontic patient communication, workflow, and scalability for both startups and established practices. Matt shares his 11-year orthodontic industry background and explains how DentalMonitoring improves the patient experience by increasing weekly communication while reducing unnecessary in-office “check” visits, giving time back to patients, teams, and doctors. They discuss why implementing remote monitoring early can help startups build better systems, reduce space and staffing needs, and maintain lower overhead while growing revenue. For established practices, they address common fears around adopting new technology, emphasizing phased rollout, actionable AI-driven alerts, and reallocating recovered chair time toward clinically necessary visits and practice growth. Matt highlights DentalMonitoring’s AI capabilities, FDA validation, Smart STL, and future workflow-streamlining possibilities. Connect With Our Guest DentalMonitoring - https://dentalmonitoring.com/ Takeaways Remote monitoring boosts engagement with more frequent check-ins and fewer in-office visits.Practices are shrinking space while increasing revenue with the same staff/chairs.Remote monitoring frees up chair time for other tasks like marketing and new patients.Startups should adopt remote monitoring from day one.Established practices should expect ~3-6 months of transition when adopting remote monitoring.DentalMonitoring’s AI handles diagnostics, letting practices still control patient messaging.AI won’t replace orthodontists, but those who use well will outcompete those who don’t.Reallocating chair time reduces after-hours “homework” and improves work-life balance.AI-driven workflow will continue to expand.Chapters 00:00 Introduction04:35 Why Remote Monitoring Matters11:01 Building Startups with DM14:11 Scaling Lean Practices17:24 Time Back and Burnout19:40 Adopting Tech in Big Practices21:37 Reallocating Time and ROI23:09 Virtual Patient Touchpoints27:15 AI Myths And Reality31:34 Lifestyle And Future Teams33:15 AI Predictions Ahead36:03 How To Contact Matt &amp; DentalMonitoring Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.    New episodes drop every...

“Money alone doesn’t work.” Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Jill Allen does something a little different and challenges orthodontists and office managers to consider whether their practices are building careers or just providing jobs, noting widespread retention issues and shifting employee expectations across multiple generations. She explains why salary and annual raises alone no longer drive commitment and outlines the need to balance hard motivators like clear, consistent pay structures with soft motivators like recognition, purpose, autonomy, and development. Jill emphasizes creating career ladders for every core role, linking advancement to skills rather than tenure, and proactively having career conversations to help team members visualize a future in orthodontics. She also stresses that culture and psychological safety are critical to performance and retention, citing Google’s Project Aristotle findings on team effectiveness. Connect With Our Guest Jill Allen &amp; Associates - https://www.practiceresults.com/ Takeaways Money alone doesn’t retain employees.Salary and annual raise is an outdated retention model.Growth is the currency of retention.Hard motivators (pay, bonuses) matter, but soft motivators (recognition, autonomy) create emotional buy-in.Pay structures must be consistent and transparent.Bonuses only work fi they’re clear and achievable.Building a visible career ladder for every core role is essential. Ask your team members where they want to grow.Not everyone wants to lead, and that’s okay.Culture is behavior, not policy. Cultivating a supportive culture is essential.Psychological safety drive performance.Chapters 00:00 Introduction02:37 Why Teams Leave07:08 What Employees Want Now12:35 Money Alone Fails15:21 Hard Motivators20:20 Soft Motivators24:59 Build Career Paths31:22 Career Ladders and Pay Levels42:02 Culture and Psychological Safety48:21 Action Steps and Wrap Up Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.    New episodes drop every Thursday!

"You can never have enough cash.” Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Jill chats with Chandler Wrightenberry from Live Oak Bank to discuss the intricacies of healthcare lending, particularly focusing on practice purchases and real estate investments. Chandler shares insights from his extensive experience at Live Oak Bank, emphasizing the importance of understanding costs, building a supportive team, and maintaining transparency in banking conversations. They explore the current market conditions, project timelines, and the significance of long-term investments in healthcare real estate. Jill and Chandler also touch on the complexities of construction timelines, the importance of zoning, and the necessity of having the right team when expanding an orthodontic practice. They emphasize the need for realistic expectations regarding project durations and financial preparedness, including cash management strategies. Connect With Our Guest Live Oak Bank - https://www.liveoak.bank/Chandler’s Phone Number: (828) 337-1374 Takeaways Chandler Wrightenberry has over 12 years of experience in healthcare lending.Live Oak Bank is the largest SBA lender in the country by volume.Building a supportive team is crucial for successful real estate projects.Transparency in financial discussions leads to better outcomes.Interest rates are currently stable and reasonable for borrowing.It's important to have early conversations with lenders about financing.Investing in real estate is a long-term commitment that can yield significant returns.Doctors often experience growth after relocating to new facilities. You should have an expectation of working with a city to get everything finalized in about six months.Ground-up construction typically takes nine to twelve months for planning and an additional 18 to 24 months for completion.Zoning issues can significantly delay project timelines, so it's crucial to ensure proper zoning before purchasing a property.Having a specialized commercial real estate agent is essential for navigating zoning and permits.Expect projects to take longer and be more expensive than initially anticipated.Financial preparedness is key; saving cash and having a safety net is crucial for large projects.A good rule of thumb is to have at least 10% of the project cost in cash reserves.Investing in liquid assets can provide quick access to cash when needed for projects.Chapters 00:00 Introduction04:35 Market Reality Check07:16 Costs and Rates Today11:25 Build Your Project Team15:04 Be Candid With Lenders19:21 Realistic Project Timelines22:23 Remodel vs Ground Up Schedule23:29 Zoning Pitfalls and Team26:08 Lease Timing and Overlap28:03 Cash Reserves and Liquidity32:00 How to Contact Chandler Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a...

“We can track everything.” Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Jill sits down with Scott Hansen to discuss his journey in the orthodontic field and the creation of LeadSigma, a company focused on improving patient engagement and practice growth through innovative solutions. The discussion highlights the critical importance of managing new patient calls, leveraging AI technology for better patient interaction, and understanding patient attribution to make informed marketing decisions. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration between orthodontic practices and marketing agencies to achieve optimal results. Jill and Scott discuss the integration of marketing and operational systems in healthcare practices, emphasizing the importance of a feedback loop to measure marketing investments. They explore the role of AI in enhancing business efficiency, sharing insights on practical applications and the need for cohesive team collaboration. The discussion highlights the potential of technology to transform practices and improve patient engagement, while also addressing the challenges of implementation and the importance of providing value in networking. Connect With Our Guest LeadSigma - https://www.leadsigma.com/ AI Model Training Spreadsheet: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Pb6FFSHbguxIQwCxbC_lSYDUeKYoQhuNi3IU8u-iAjk/edit?usp=sharingTakeaways Scott Hansen went from managing an orthodontic practice to founding LeadSigma.Missed new patient calls represent a significant revenue loss for practices.LeadSigma's AI technology helps practices manage patient calls effectively.Understanding patient attribution is crucial for marketing success.Data-driven decisions empower practices to optimize their marketing strategies.Collaboration between doctors and marketing agencies enhances practice growth.Practices often overlook the importance of follow-up on missed calls.Tracking leads and conversions provides valuable insights for practices.Effective communication is key to converting leads into patients. The integration of marketing and operational systems is crucial for practice success.A feedback loop is essential for measuring marketing investments.Practical tools and systems must be in place for effective AI implementation.Team collaboration is key to leveraging AI effectively.Networking should focus on providing value to be effective.Chapters 00:00 Introduction04:38 Missed Calls and Lost Revenue10:14 CoPilot AI Receptionist13:39 Marketing Attribution and ROI21:38 Feedback Loop and Accountability24:55 Using AI Inside LeadSigma28:54 AI Call Coaching and HIPAA34:00 Context Engineering Tips34:29 How to Contact Scott and LeadSigma Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann...

"Don't wait for IT issues to arise." Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Jill interviews Jack Wiley from Legend Networking about the critical role of IT in orthodontic and dental practices. They discuss the importance of maintaining updated technology, especially for established practices, and the risks associated with outdated systems. Jack emphasizes the need for younger doctors to consider technology when acquiring practices and provides insights on building a strong technology foundation for startups. The conversation also touches on the challenges of HIPAA compliance and the necessity of ongoing employee training in cybersecurity. Jill and Jack also discuss the critical aspects of cybersecurity, backup strategies, and the differences between Mac and PC usage in healthcare settings. The discussion also touches on the distinctions between managed services and static IT, highlighting the benefits of a proactive IT strategy.  Connect With Our Guest Legend Networking - https://www.legendnt.com/https://www.cyber.mil/cyber-awareness-challenge Takeaways Jack Wiley works at Legend Networking, a dental-specific IT provider.IT infrastructure is crucial for the growth of practices.Many established practices operate on outdated technology, risking patient data.Younger doctors often overlook technology when acquiring practices.Evaluating the age of computers and network equipment is essential during acquisitions.Startups should prioritize hardwired connections over wireless for reliability.Planning for future growth in technology is vital for new practices.HIPAA compliance is an ongoing challenge for orthodontic practices.Regular technology evaluations can prevent costly upgrades later. Employee training is often the cause of network vulnerabilities.Backups should be incremental and frequent for quick recovery.Macs can be secure but require specific considerations.Proactive IT management prevents costly downtime.Regular checkups on IT systems can reveal vulnerabilities.Chapters 00:00 Introduction04:55 Aging Hardware Risks08:31 Acquisition IT Checklist14:45 Startup Tech Foundation23:30 Security and HIPAA Basics26:32 Backups and Access Control28:15 Mac vs PC in Ortho31:43 WiFi Segmentation Story33:35 Managed IT Explained36:23 How to Contact Legend Networking Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening...

"Being engaged is the best thing you can do." Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Adam Braundmeier, the General Counsel of the AAO, discusses his journey into the orthodontic field and the vital role of advocacy in supporting orthodontists. He explains the dual role he plays in managing legal compliance and engaging with members to address regulatory issues. The conversation covers current challenges such as specialty advertising regulations, direct-to-consumer models, and student loan burdens for new orthodontists. Adam emphasizes the importance of member involvement in advocacy efforts and highlights the resources available through the AAO, including legal guidance and support for navigating the complexities of the orthodontic profession. Jill and Adam also explore future trends in technology and patient care, emphasizing the need for orthodontists to maintain clinical discretion amidst rapid advancements. Connect With Our Guest American Association of Orthodontists - https://www2.aaoinfo.org [email protected] Takeaways Adam Braundmeier joined the AAO as General Counsel in 2023.The AAO's advocacy team works closely with orthodontists to address regulatory issues.Member engagement is crucial for effective advocacy efforts.Specialty advertising regulations are a current focus for the AAO.Direct-to-consumer models pose challenges for patient safety in orthodontics.The AAO supports innovation while ensuring quality care remains a priority.Legal guidance is available through the AAO's Legal Resource Center.Staying informed about advocacy efforts is essential for orthodontists. Insurance coding and billing changes are on the horizon.Doctors should stay informed through newsletters and resources.Maintaining clinical discretion is essential in patient care.Legal accuracy must be communicated effectively to be useful.Members should report trends affecting patient safety.Chapters 00:00 Introduction02:53 Meet Adam Braundmeier05:04 AAO Advocacy Explained07:28 Specialty Advertising Fight09:59 Teledentistry and DTC Risks13:19 Model Laws and Patient Safety15:43 Student Loans and Policy19:16 Member Resources and Legal Center22:04 New Forms HIPAA and Coding Updates25:02 Staying Informed and Getting Involved28:37 Future Focus Tech and AI29:25 How to Contact AAO Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.   <br...

"Listen to your gut instinct.” Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Dr. Richard Clabaugh shares his journey from being a general dentist to acquiring and running his own orthodontic practice. He discusses the challenges he faced during the transition, including team dynamics, employee turnover, and the importance of leadership. Richard reflects on his growth as a leader and the lessons learned over the past ten years, emphasizing the significance of building a strong team culture and the need for adaptability in the face of change. Dr. Clabaugh also reflects on the significance of purpose beyond profit, encouraging aspiring practice owners to prioritize their values and family time while navigating the complexities of ownership. Connect With Our Guest Dr. Richard Clabaugh - https://clabaughorthodontics.com/[email protected] Takeaways Richard's journey from general dentistry to orthodontics was driven by a desire for ownership.Acquiring a practice involves navigating complex challenges, including team dynamics.Leadership requires a balance of authority and responsibility.Employee turnover is a common challenge during ownership transitions.Building a strong team culture is essential for practice success.It's important to prioritize team health alongside patient care.Leadership can be lonely, and support from peers is invaluable.Recognizing the value of team members is key to retention.Open communication with staff can help navigate changes effectively.Building genuine relationships within the team enhances collaboration.Core values should be recited regularly to maintain focus.Team members should be involved in the hiring process for better fit.Prioritize family and personal time amidst the demands of practice ownership.Chapters 00:00 Introduction06:32 Why Choose Acquisition08:58 Due Diligence Mindset13:37 Lessons After Purchase17:30 Leadership Energy On Stage19:18 Early Ownership Challenges21:38 Team Turnover Reality30:52 Hiring the Right Team35:02 Leading With Humility39:35 Team Recognition Culture41:49 Hiring and Letting Go46:54 Faith and Leadership Reality48:43 Acquisition Advice50:26 Meaning Beyond Money55:40 Contact Info Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.    New episodes drop every Thursday!

"Quality, not quantity, is what matters in reviews." Connect With Our SponsorsSolventum - https://go.solventum.com/clarityGreyFinch - https://greyfinch.com/jillallen/A-Dec - https://www.a-dec.com/orthodonticsSmileSuite - https://getsmilesuite.com/ Summary In this episode of Hey Docs!, Gal Borenstein discusses the evolving landscape of trust in branding, particularly in the context of digital interactions. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, customer experience, and adapting to generational communication changes. Gal provides practical advice for enhancing trust and navigating the complexities of digital marketing, especially for orthodontists. He highlights the need for businesses to focus on quality over quantity in reviews and to create a strong digital footprint that resonates with today's consumers. Connect With Our Guest The Borenstein Group - https://www.borensteingroup.com Takeaways Trust has changed dramatically in branding and advertising.Digital trust is now more important than ever for businesses.Customer experience has evolved, especially post-COVID.Authenticity in reviews is crucial for building trust.Businesses must adapt to generational communication preferences.Quality of reviews matters more than quantity.Creating a strong digital footprint is essential for success.Practices should regularly evaluate their online presence.Engaging with customers authentically can enhance trust.Negative influences can hinder business growth and optimism.Chapters 00:00 Introduction02:29 Gal’s Background and Branding04:28 COVID Shift to Digital Trust10:41 Reviews and Authenticity16:10 AI Search and Origin Story23:08 Gen Z Communication and UX28:34 Trust Killers in Practice33:34 Practical Steps Inside vs Outside36:04 Contact Info Episode Credits:  Hosted by Jill AllenProduced by Jordann KillionAudio Engineering by Garrett LuceroAre you ready to start a practice of your own? Do you need a fresh set of eyes or some advice in your existing practice?Reach out to me- www.practiceresults.com.    If you like what we are doing here on Hey Docs! and want to hear more of this awesome content, give us a 5-star Rating on your preferred listening platform and subscribe to our show so you never miss an episode.    New episodes drop every Thursday!