Dental Unfiltered

In this episode of Management Unfiltered,, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley break down the role of bonus systems in dental practices. They discuss different bonus structures, how they impact team motivation and productivity, and why tracking and accountability are essential for success. The conversation also touches on valuable educational resources for office managers and the importance of team-dri...

In this celebratory episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo reflect on Matt being named Dental Podcaster of the Year. They discuss the podcast’s impact on the dental community, and share gratitude for their listeners and support team. They also tease exciting future projects aimed at further engaging and inspiring their audience.

In this episode, Matt Brown, Dr. Andrew Vallo, and Dr. Matt Vogt discuss what it takes to build a lifestyle practice in dentistry. They explore intentionality, balancing personal passions with practice growth, and the challenges of defining success. Dr. Vogt shares lessons from qualifying for the US Open and how elite performance translates to dentistry, highlighting the value of clear vision and...

In this episode, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley dive into the power of team buy-in and why it’s essential for building a cohesive, high-performing workplace. They discuss how leaders can reduce friction during change, communicate more effectively, and set clear goals and metrics that keep teams aligned and accountable. Through practical insights on leadership and engagement, the conversation shows...

Ken Kaufman and Dallin Kaufman clear up common misconceptions about accrual accounting, explaining why it’s more accurate and reliable than cash basis accounting. They discuss why many businesses overlook its value and why accrual accounting remains the standard across industries.

In this episode, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley challenge the myth of work-life balance and introduce the idea of work-life rhythm —a more intentional way to be fully present at work and at home. They discuss setting boundaries, prioritizing what matters most, and using time effectively to boost productivity. The conversation encourages embracing discomfort and designing a rhythm that leads to a m...

Matt Brown sits down with Laura Nelson, founder of Front Office Rocks, to discuss why the front desk is critical to practice success. Laura shares insights on common front office breakdowns, using data to improve patient engagement, and how AI can support—without replacing—human connection. They also explore the shift from staying busy to working efficiently and preview Laura’s upcoming phone skil...

Zach Shelley and Kirk Teachout tackle the growing issue of burnout among practice leaders. They break down what causes burnout, the role of personal responsibility, and how team culture impacts long-term sustainability. This episode shares practical strategies like setting boundaries, delegating effectively, prioritizing self-care, and creating a supportive team environment—essential insights for...

Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Tom Orent (The Gems Guy) to discuss his journey from PPOs to a successful fee-for-service dental practice. Dr. Orent shares what sparked the transition, how to improve patient flow and case acceptance, and why clear communication and mindset are critical during change. A concise, practical conversation for dentists looking to build a more profitable and fulfilling pra...

Dr. Sausha Toghranegar takes a deep dive into osseodensification and its role in crestal sinus lifts. He breaks down the evolution and design of osseodensification drills, addresses common controversies, and shares practical techniques for improving implant outcomes. Through a detailed case study, Dr. Toghranegar highlights the importance of understanding bone density, healing dynamics, and proper...

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered , host Matt Brown talks with Dr. Michael Wollock—top Invisalign provider and founder of Diamond Makers—about his path in dentistry and the value of mentorship and education. Dr. Wollock shares practical tips for strengthening Invisalign offerings and emphasizes treating patients as whole individuals. The conversation highlights how community, support, and genui...

In this episode, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley break down the nine essential Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) every dental practice should track to stay healthy and grow. From new patient acquisition and retention to treatment acceptance, collections, and payroll management, they explain what each metric means—and why it matters. Kirk and Zach also share practical strategies for improving these...

Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo break down the often-overlooked art of patient follow-up—and why it can make or break a dental practice. They dive into common misconceptions, the importance of having a structured, consistent system, and the missed opportunities that happen when follow-up isn’t done well. Dr. Vallo also shares his simple three-step follow-up framework for reconnecting with late or...

Varisha Parikh discusses managing patient expectations in a world that often demands perfection. She breaks down the pressures clinicians face, why honest communication matters, and how setting realistic expectations can lead to better long-term outcomes. With a candid, patient-focused approach, Dr. Parikh shares strategies for helping patients understand the realities of dental work while keeping...

Matt Brown and Dr. Andrew Vallo dive into one of the most debated topics in dentistry today: expanded hours. From the push for weekend availability to what truly drives practice growth, they unpack how patient convenience, scheduling flexibility, and modern consumer expectations are reshaping the dental landscape. They also break down the real-world challenges—staffing, call centers, and the growi...

In this episode, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley dive into what truly drives hygiene retention in a thriving dental practice. They explore how clear communication, collaborative teamwork, and ongoing education can strengthen your hygiene department and reduce turnover. From breaking down role-based silos to empowering the front office for smoother operations, this conversation highlights practical...

In this episode, Andrew Vallo and Matt Brown dive into smart, sustainable strategies for growing a dental practice without adding more hours to the schedule. They break down how innovative marketing—especially turning “junk mail” into meaningful patient communication—can drive results, and why clear, concise messaging matters more than ever. Tune in for practical insights designed to help dental p...

In this episode of Management Unfiltered , Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley unpack how to determine the right time to bring on an additional hygienist. They discuss the operational and clinical indicators to watch for, how patient demand and scheduling bottlenecks factor in, and why proactive hiring can prevent burnout across the team. The conversation also covers how clear systems, strong culture,...

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown, Andrew Vallo, Craig Spodak, and Peter Boulden dive into the true realities of success in dentistry. From the grind of entrepreneurship to the pressures of practice ownership, they break down the myths that social media often amplifies. The conversation explores burnout, personal clarity, and the struggle to balance ambition with well-being. Whether...

In this episode of Management Unfiltered, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley dive into the essential strategies for retaining top hygienists in dental practices. They explore how streamlined systems, clear communication, and a culture of empowerment can make all the difference. From the importance of positive reinforcement and continued education to the vital role of the front office and teamwork, thi...

In this episode, Matt Brown and Dr. Todd Fleischman explore the vital relationship between hygienists and dentists — and why collaboration and mutual respect are key to a thriving practice. They discuss the evolving role of hygienists in a post-COVID world, the shift toward a wellness-focused hygiene model, and the power of education and communication in improving patient outcomes. Dr. Fleischman...

In this episode, Kirk Teachout and Zach Shelley dive into how purposeful, well-structured meetings can transform a dental practice. They discuss the importance of clear communication, leadership, and consistent team alignment to improve both workflow and patient care. From defining departmental priorities to using KPIs effectively, this conversation offers practical insights for creating meetings...

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman to unpack the vital relationship between general dentists and specialists. Together, they explore how trust, communication, and collaboration drive better patient outcomes — and why general dentists should act as the “quarterbacks” of care. The conversation also dives into how evolving dental technology and continu...

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, host Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman, a Philadelphia-based dentist, to explore his journey into dentistry and the realities of running a practice in a bustling city. They dive into the challenges and rewards of urban dentistry, the value of patient relationships, and the role of community in building a lasting legacy. Dr. Fleischman also shares h...

In this episode of Dental Unfiltered, host Matt Brown sits down with Dr. Todd Fleischman, a Philadelphia-based dentist, to explore his journey into dentistry and the realities of running a practice in a bustling city. They dive into the challenges and rewards of urban dentistry, the value of patient relationships, and the role of community in building a lasting legacy. Dr. Fleischman also shares h...