More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

This episode with my friend Michelle Affanato breaks down what truly makes a great dental office manager, especially for those promoted from within or stepping into the role for the first time. We get honest about the realities of new manager energy ranging from being handed a title without training to suddenly managing former coworkers who now see you differently. Is this why so many managers feel overwhelmed early on? Maybe it's not because they are incapable but because expectations were never clearly defined.

Michelle shares real client experiences coaching new managers, including why asking for help is a strength and why being supported by the doctor is essential for long term success.

Connect with Michelle Affanato

Instagram: @michelle_affinitymgmt

Facebook: Affinity Management Consulting

Podcast: Accelerate Your Dental Practice with Malika and Michelle

Website: https://www.affinitymanagement.co/

—-------------

Practice Management Power Day is happening in Denver, Colorado, and it is built for leaders who want real results. Learn directly from top practice management experts and industry speakers who know what it takes to run a profitable, organized, high performing practice. The event will take place on Friday, September 25 at the Vivos Institute, located next to the Denver Airport. Register now at: https://practicemanagementpowerday.com/

—-------------

Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.

Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today:

🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#DentalOfficeManager #DentalLeadership #PracticeManagement #DentalTeamSuccess #DentalManagement #DentalGrowth

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Dental practices are being stretched thinner than ever, but the solution isn't just hiring more people. It's learning how to better use, train, and trust the team you already have.

In this episode, I sit down with Stacey Singleton - assistant extraordinaire - to discuss how dental practices can adapt to staffing shortages by rethinking team roles and expanding responsibilities within proper scope of practice. We talked about expanded function dental assistants, smarter scheduling, access to care challenges, and the impact of investing in education and training. Stacey has built an accredited program all while working with dentists across states. Graduates seek out practices who elevate assistants, hygienists, and teams as a whole. Every dental office should be full of such colleagues!

Connect with Stacey

Website: https://www.talkteeth2me.com/

IG: @talkteeth2me

Link we referenced:

DANB State Dental Assisting Requirements

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Join us for Practice Management Power Day on Sept. 25 in Denver! This event is designed for experienced managers and dentists. Visit https://practicemanagementpowerday.com to register!

—-------------

Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.

Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today:

🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#DentalPractice #DentalTeam #DentalStaffing #DentalAssistants #PracticeManagement #AccessToCare

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Does dental billing feel harder than it used to? You're doing the same work, but claims stall, rules change, and nothing seems consistent anymore. My friend and Dental Revenue Network member Brooke Bird joins me to break down why that's happening.

The rules keep changing, knowledge is scattered, and practice management systems haven't kept up all that well. Why does working on claims now feel like detective work? Different payer quirks and clearinghouse changes have quietly slowed cash flow. What are your options? Brooke and I consider what's really happening behind aging accounts, leased networks, and unpaid claims. Hopefully our discussion can help you firm up your systems!

As promised, grab your Insurance Compass here:

https://birdseyebilling.com/insurance-compass

Connect with Brooke Bird

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550209355734

IG: https://www.instagram.com/birdseyebillingdental/

LinkedIn (Brooke Bird): https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-bird-298ba3127/

LinkedIn (Birdseye Billing Dental): https://www.linkedin.com/company/birdseye-billing

Website: https://birdseyebilling.com/

-------------

Join us for Practice Management Power Day on Sept. 25 in Denver! This event is designed for experienced managers and dentists. Visit https://practicemanagementpowerday.com to register!

-------------

Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.

Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today:

🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#DentalBilling #DentalInsurance #DentalOfficeLife #DentalManagement #DentalAR #DentalPractice #DentalAdmin #DentalRevenue

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

What will dentistry really look like in 2026? Teresa Duncan and Kevin Henry cut through the noise to unpack the economic, workforce, insurance, and technology trends that will shape dental practices sooner than many expect.

They take a data-driven look at trends such as persistent staffing shortages and rising labor costs to the growing role of AI. Compliance risk is increasing and practices face mounting profitability pressure. How can we refocus on business fundamentals while adapting to shifting patient expectations? This webinar replay can help you be proactive heading into 2026!

Connect with Kevin Henry:

www.KevinSpeaksDental.com

Connect with Teresa Duncan:

www.OdysseyMgmt.com

Chew On This Podcast Playlist here!
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJF_kSfpA7sJHVgO0lojChMhGRiYlIb3Z

-------------

Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.

Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today:

🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#ChewOnThis #DentalPodcast #Dentistry #DentalIndustry #DentalAI #FutureOfDentistry #DentalOfficeManagement #RevenueCycleManagement #DentalTrends #DentalInsurance #PatientExperience #DentalTeam #Dentistry2026

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Most dental practices don't struggle because of dentistry but because of what happens behind the scenes.

Practice management is rarely taught even though it controls profitability, team morale, and long-term growth. My friend Olivia Smith shares insight and stories of her clients' misses and wins. The realities of running a successful dental practice include understanding KPIs (without drowning in numbers) to leading teams with clarity and accountability (without losing your mind!).

We touched on so many topics - the time really flew by! Just a few topics:

• Associate integration (so delicate)

• Manager burnout

• Realistic case acceptance tips

• When leadership isn't an innate skill

This is a candid look at dental practice management no one tells you about.

Connect with Olivia Smith

Website https://osdentalconsulting.com/home/

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/660184687177918

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/osdentalconsulting/

-------------

Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.

Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees. Registration is open. Secure your spot today:

🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

#DentalPracticeManagement #DentalPracticeGrowth #DentalOfficeManagement #DentalLeadership #PracticeProfitability #DentalBusiness

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Leading employees can feel like walking through a minefield. One wrong step and morale, productivity, or trust can explode. But great leaders are not born with the ability to navigate tough personalities. They learn the strategies, communication skills, and mindset shifts that turn conflict into constructive growth.

My friends Ashley Bond and Lorie Streeter joined me to talk about leadership challenges new managers face every day. We tackled it all: resistant employees, navigating office politics, and owners who may not always have your back. We offer help with conflict resolution, accountability, emotional intelligence, setting and boundaries. And importantly, we focus on protecting your mental health in high-pressure roles. This discussion will help emerging leaders communicate more clearly to build trust, even when employee dynamics get complicated.

This was a follow up to "What I Wish I Knew: Administrative Wisdom," a webinar hosted by…you guessed it.. Wisdom! We had so many questions that we needed to tackle them in a separate session. You can access the original session here:

https://www.withwisdom.com/resources/what-i-wish-i-knew-administrative-wisdom

Connect with Ashley Bond

Website: https://www.withwisdom.com/

Connect with Lorie Streeter:

Website: https://getmaxassist.com/book-a-demo-lorie/

-------------

Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.

Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees.
Registration is open. Secure your spot today:

🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt

More management and insurance knowledge in my newsletter: https://www.odysseymgmt.com/newsletter

Your practice might look efficient, but what if unnoticed expenses are quietly draining thousands from your bottom line each year?

My friend Adam Smith talked with me about the hidden costs that most dental offices overlook and how small changes can make a big difference. Everyday expenses like merchant fees, internet contracts, and bundled tech services can quietly add up. Negotiating and reviewing your fees can bring real savings without cutting team members or quality. We dig into what indirect costs really mean, why checking your numbers matters more than you think, and how tightening up your spending can open room for raises, upgrades, or a better cushion for your practice. It's an honest, practical chat about spending smarter and keeping more of what you earn.

Connect with Adam Smith

Email: Adam.Smith@SchooleyMitchell.com

Contact number: 415 572 0948

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/schooleymitchellasmith

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schooleymitchell_bay_area/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamdsmith/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AdamSmith-SchooleyMitchell

Website: https://www.schooleymitchell.com/office/asmith/dental-savings/?contact#resources

-------------

Beyond the Operatory Career Workshop: Have you ever wondered what career opportunities in dentistry exist beyond clinical care? Whether you're a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or manager, this full-day, in-person workshop is your chance to explore new paths in speaking, coaching, consulting, and more.

Join Teresa and Angela on March 6th, 2026 in Northern Virginia. Limited to just 20 attendees.
Registration is open. Secure your spot today:

🔗 https://www.beyondtheoperatory.com/

-------------

I created Dental Revenue Network to foster collaboration and networking amongst RCM professionals. Billing company owners and billing professionals will have access to skill building sessions, current carrier news and insurance discussions beyond "what's the code?" Check it out - I hope you'll join! https://dentalrevenuenetwork.mn.co/

-------------

Medical Billing Made Easy! Dental Classroom Online: https://www.dentalclassroomonline.com/

Use ODYSSEY for a 10% courtesy

-------------

Synergy Dental Partners offers lower prices for your dental supplies and services

https://www.odysseymgmt.com/synergy

NTMT listeners receive a 2 Month Free Trial + a 3rd Month if you buy anything from any vendor during the trial period. Also, new Darby customers receive a $200 Darby statement credit with a purchase.

-------------

My insurance course Dental Insurance Design and Management is geared toward those who want to understand the how and why of insurance. As a loyal podcast listener, please use "NTMT" for a $75 courtesy toward your investment.

-------------

Visit odysseymgmt.com to check out my book, webinars and courses.

-------------

Don't forget to check out my other podcast Chew on This - A Dental Podcast!

**If you like the show then I'd appreciate a good rating. Tell your friends. Even podcasters ask for referrals!**

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@odysseymgmt