Episodes

Sept. 4, 2025

Jon Kaufman, Chief Marketing Officer at Smile Doctors LLC

Jon Kaufman, Chief Marketing Officer at Smile Doctors LLC, discusses creating the best patient experience through the use of AI and the growing role of private equity in the DSO space. He also explores key industry drivers shaping the future of dental service organizations.
Sept. 3, 2025

Ian Mcnickle, Chief Executive Officer of Icon Dental Partners

Ian Mcnickle, Chief Executive Officer of Icon Dental Partners, shares his early beginnings in the DSO space and his unique transition from mechanical engineering to dental service organizations. He discusses adapting to Medicaid cuts, while also offering success tips for leaders, including the importance of maintaining a strong and supportive work culture.
Sept. 2, 2025

Connected to Grow: What Growth-Minded DSOs are Getting Right in 2025

In this episode, Teresa Williams, COO of Dental Express, and Alan Rencher, CTO of Henry Schein One, discuss how DSOs are using data, cloud technology, and streamlined operations to stay nimble, improve patient access, and scale sustainably in a changing dental landscape. This episode is sponsored by Henry Schein One.
Sept. 1, 2025

Phil Cassis, CEO of Providence Dental Partners

In this episode, Phil Cassis, CEO of Providence Dental Partners, discusses navigating workforce challenges, implementing AI and cutting-edge dental technologies, and fostering a culture of fun and transparency. He shares insights on driving growth while staying adaptable in a rapidly evolving dental industry.
Aug. 29, 2025

Christopher Blann, COO of Positive Impact Dental

In this episode, Christopher Blann, COO of Positive Impact Dental, shares insights on embracing AI in dentistry, supporting dentists through career transitions, and simplifying operations to strengthen care delivery. He also reflects on lessons from optometry and how they inform his leadership in the dental space.
Aug. 28, 2025

Thomas Passalacqua, Director of Business Development at The Smilist

In this episode, Thomas Passalacqua, Director of Business Development at The Smilist, discusses navigating acquisitions, fostering a strong company culture, and leveraging innovation in dentistry. He also shares insights on staying adaptable and future-focused in a rapidly changing dental industry.
Aug. 26, 2025

Tackling the Hygienist Shortage with Support, Technology and Growth at Dental Care Alliance

In this episode, Samantha Farrar and Becky Kiddoo of Dental Care Alliance share strategies for addressing the national hygienist shortage, highlighting investments in team support, advanced training, and technology to elevate the profession and enhance patient care. This episode is sponsored by Dental Care Alliance.
Aug. 22, 2025

Vilas Sastry, CEO of Teledentistry.com

In this episode, Vilas Sastry, CEO of Teledentistry.com, shares insights on the evolving role of virtual dental care, the impact of policy changes and fluoride removal, and how new technologies like AI and augmented reality are shaping the future of dentistry.
July 25, 2025

Turning Happy Patients into Powerful Advocates

In this episode, Sherianne James, Chief Marketing Officer of Heartland Dental, shares how practices can drive patient demand by delivering consistent care, building trust, and using digital tools while staying authentic and connected to their communities.
June 20, 2025

Rob Odell, Owner of wpDuo

This episode features Rob Odell, Owner of wpDuo, who shares how dental and DSO leaders can streamline patient acquisition, reduce lead leakage, and build long-term competitive advantages through better systems and strategic thinking.
June 10, 2025

The Power of Clinical Engagement in Dental Strategy: A Conversation with Dental Care Alliance

In this Becker’s Healthcare podcast episode, Erika Spicer Mason speaks with Dr. Eric Tobler, Chief Clinical Officer, and Christin Lisenby, Vice President of Hygiene at Dental Care Alliance, about the growing importance of clinical engagement in driving dental practice success. They explore how empowering clinicians, aligning on standards of care, and building culture across multi-site settings are critical to sustainable growth and improved outcomes. Tune in to hear real-world strategies and ins...
June 6, 2025

Clinical Excellence, Compact Controversies, and the Role of DSOs with Dr. Catherine Watkins

In this episode, Dr. Catherine Watkins, a seasoned dentist with over four decades of experience, joins the podcast to share her unique perspective on dental education, licensure compacts, continuity of care, and the critical importance of maintaining dentistry’s identity as a surgical profession. She also discusses emerging technologies, DSOs, and the growing need for equitable access to care.
June 5, 2025

Julian Osorio, Prosthodontist and Owner at South Boston Dental Group

Julian Osorio, Prosthodontist and Owner at South Boston Dental Group, joins the podcast to explore how advancements in technology are reshaping the dental space. He discusses the impact of rising labor costs and shares practical advice for current and emerging healthcare leaders looking to succeed in an increasingly complex industry.
June 3, 2025

Improving Access and Advancing Care: A Conversation with Bryan Carey, CEO of Benevis

In this episode, Bryan Carey, CEO of Benevis, discusses the mission behind their 10th annual Sharing Smiles Day, how AI is transforming dental care, and why investing in team development is essential for the future of dentistry.
May 16, 2025

Transforming Oral Health Access and Innovation with Delta Dental CEO Sarah Chavarria

In this episode, Sarah Chavarria, CEO of Delta Dental of California and Affiliates, discusses the growing link between oral and overall health, the future of digital-forward care, and strategies to expand access to underserved populations. She also shares what excites her most about the evolving dental landscape and the leadership needed to drive meaningful change.
May 5, 2025

Dr. Geith Kallas, CEO and dentist at Smile Makers Dental Center

In this episode, Dr. Geith Kallas, CEO and dentist at Smile Makers Dental Center, shares insights on expanding a multi-location dental organization, adopting emerging technologies like AI and 3D printing, and balancing leadership with clinical excellence in a rapidly evolving industry.
May 3, 2025

Francesca Pregano, COO of Smile Makers Dental Center

In this episode, Francesca Pregano, COO of Smile Makers Dental Center, shares how her organization is tackling workforce challenges, embracing dental tech innovations like AI, and preparing for expansion with scalable systems and strong team culture. She also offers key advice for leaders navigating the future of healthcare operations.
April 29, 2025

Sam Patel, CEO of Imagine Orthodontic Studio

In this episode, Sam Patel, CEO of Imagine Orthodontic Studio, joins the podcast to discuss how his fast-growing practice is making orthodontic care more affordable, accessible, and customizable for today’s patients, while navigating economic challenges without passing costs onto families.
April 23, 2025

Leadership, Technology & Trends in Dentistry: A Conversation with Dr. Bradley Dykstra

In this episode, Dr. Bradley Dykstra, CEO of MI Smiles Dental Group, shares insights on dental industry trends, the impact of technology like AI and virtual agents, and how strong leadership, culture, and data-driven decisions are key to navigating staffing shortages and economic shifts.
April 2, 2025

Rick Valachovic, DMD, MPH, Executive Director of the NYU Dentistry Center for Oral Health Policy and Management

Rick Valachovic, DMD, MPH, Executive Director of the NYU Dentistry Center for Oral Health Policy and Management, explores the evolving workforce dynamics in dentistry, addressing the ongoing shortage of professionals and the changing landscape of dental practice. He discusses the impact of digitalization on the industry and shares valuable advice for emerging healthcare leaders seeking success in this transforming field.
March 24, 2025

Katherine Yale, Student at the University of Utah School of Dentistry, & Josh Whipple of Pacific Dental Services

Katherine Yale, Dental Student at the University of Utah School of Dentistry, and Josh Whipple, Senior Director of Talent and Leadership Development at Pacific Dental Services, discuss insights from a student survey on post-graduation plans. They emphasize the high demand for mentorship and the value of honest, face-to-face conversations with students. Yale and Whipple also highlight the offerings that attract students to the field.
March 12, 2025

Phil Cassis, Co-Founder & CEO, and Dr. Jason Mann, Co-Founder & Chief Dental Officer of Providence Dental Partners

In this episode, Phil Cassis, Co-Founder & CEO, and Dr. Jason Mann, Co-Founder & Chief Dental Officer of Providence Dental Partners, discuss the evolving landscape of the dental industry. From AI advancements and mentorship challenges to leadership strategies and culture-building in DSOs, they share valuable insights on navigating the industry's biggest opportunities and obstacles.
March 3, 2025

Bryan Carey, & Dr. Jane Whang, DDS, of Benevis

Bryan Carey, CEO at Benevis, and Dr. Jane Whang, DDS, Regional Director of Clinical at Benevis, discuss the adoption of new technology in dentistry and the ongoing challenge of a shortage of qualified healthcare professionals. They highlight how Medicaid benefits Americans and the role of Dental Support Organizations (DSOs) in increasing access to care. Additionally, they explore strategies for offering greater work incentives to encourage more professionals to serve in rural areas, helping to a...
Feb. 19, 2025

Jeff DeBellis, COO of MAX Surgical Specialty Management

In this episode, Jeff DeBellis, COO of MAX Surgical Specialty Management, discusses key trends shaping the dental industry, from economic outlooks and consolidation to advancements in technology. He shares insights on the evolving role of EMR and PMS systems, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the essential leadership skills needed for success in healthcare.