

Dental Practice Heroes
Dr. Paul Etchison
Where dentists learn how to cut clinical days while increasing profits - without sacrificing patient care, cutting corners, or cranking volume. We teach you how to grow a scalable practice through communication, leadership, and effective management. Hosted by Dr. Paul Etchison, author of two books on dental practice management, dental coach, and owner of a $6M collections group practice in the south suburbs of Chicago, we provide actionable advice for practice owners who want to intentionally create more time to enjoy their families, wealth, and deep personal fulfillment. If you want to build a scalable practice framework that no longer stresses, drains, or relies on you for every little thing, we will teach you how and share stories of other dentists who have done it!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 2, 2025 • 20min
Hiring or Onboarding: What to Do When a New Hire Isn’t Working Out
Did you hire the wrong person… or is it your onboarding process?In this episode, learn how to figure out if it’s a hiring mistake or an onboarding issue, why coachability matters more than resumes, and what to do when your new hire isn’t meeting expectations. You'll hear about our own hiring mistakes and get tips for spotting red flags early, asking better interview questions, and knowing when it’s time to let someone go.Topics discussed in this episode:Why your office isn’t the right fit for everyoneQuestions to ask in interviewsInterview red flags to watch forHow to tell if candidates are coachableWhen to let someone goThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comFree Webinar this wednesday on the Dental Practice Heroes App. Download the App from the App store for free and register on the meetup's tab. Don't be a silly goose....Download the Dental Practice Heroes App today and access all the free resources available to you. (Awesome Android ppl Click Here)Take Control of Your Practice and Your LifeWe help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams.Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Aug 27, 2025 • 29min
How to Step Back Without Stepping Away w/ Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan
Ready to get out of the operatory without leaving dentistry? If you’re mid-career and craving more, this episode will help you figure out your next move and how to get there.Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan of Simplify Dentistry shares his tips for simplifying your systems, meeting production goals, and avoiding the common traps that keep dentists stuck. Learn how to get out of that mid-career burnout and build a practice that supports the lifestyle you want!Topics discussed in this episode:Practice models for more flexibilityThe 3 core competencies in dentistryHow to simplify your practiceWhy you should embrace new technologyHow to find freedom and fulfillment in your careerLearn more about Simplify Dentistry:http://www.simplifydds.comThis episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.comFree Webinar this wednesday on the Dental Practice Heroes App. Download the App from the App store for free and register on the meetup's tab. Don't be a silly goose....Download the Dental Practice Heroes App today and access all the free resources available to you. (Awesome Android ppl Click Here)Take Control of Your Practice and Your LifeWe help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams.Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Aug 25, 2025 • 15min
Building Your Practice Bridge: How Missing Systems Create Risk
Running a dental practice can feel like crossing a bridge with missing planks. Critical systems, such as onboarding and scheduling, are often overlooked, leading to chaos and frustration. The hosts discuss the need for robust financial management and team collaboration to prevent money leaks and ensure case acceptance. They emphasize the importance of leadership structures for accountability and coordination. With the right strategies, dentists can work smarter, enjoy more time off, and enhance their practice's profitability.

Aug 20, 2025 • 35min
Your Practice Doesn't Have to Stay the Way You Bought It
Rhonda Kalasho, a multi-practice owner from California, dives into her journey of transforming a hygiene-only dental office into a thriving brand. She shares insights on building trust with patients and the importance of effective communication. Rhonda discusses the delicate balance of female leadership and how to cultivate a strong team culture. She also emphasizes the significance of technology in modern dentistry and the unique challenges of growing a practice while being a mother. Tune in for valuable strategies on making practice ownership fulfilling!

Aug 18, 2025 • 25min
Confronting Underperformance: Why You Can't Always Be the Nice Boss
That dreaded, “I need to talk to you about something?” It’s a conversation no one looks forward to, but every owner has to deal with. Whether it's an underperforming employee or tension in the office, this episode will give you the tools to address issues that can make or break workplace culture.You’ll learn how to confront underperformance and team conflict head-on, prevent problems before they spiral, and get your team back on track. Plus, we also share a quick test to help you decide if it's time to let an employee go!Topics discussed in this episode:Why owners are part of the problemHow to address underperformance and employee complaintsThe do’s and don’ts of handling team conflictDr. Henry’s method for getting honest feedbackYour role as a leader in shaping team cultureHow to decide when to let someone goThe green, yellow, red performance frameworkFree Webinar this wednesday on the Dental Practice Heroes App. Download the App from the App store for free and register on the meetup's tab. Don't be a silly goose....Download the Dental Practice Heroes App today and access all the free resources available to you. (Awesome Android ppl Click Here)Take Control of Your Practice and Your LifeWe help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams.Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Aug 14, 2025 • 17min
Fun IS Profitable: How to Create a Practice You and Your Team Enjoy!
Have you ever noticed how some dental teams thrive even on the most challenging days? They laugh together, support each other, and somehow make even the toughest situations enjoyable. It's not magic—it's intentional leadership and genuine connection.The relationships within your dental team matter more than anything else—even more than compensation or perks. When team members genuinely enjoy each other's company, they create a resilient culture that pulls together during stressful times. As practice owner, you set the emotional tone that ripples through your entire organization. This doesn't mean faking positivity, but rather bringing authentic leadership that includes appropriate vulnerability.Free Webinar this wednesday on the Dental Practice Heroes App. Download the App from the App store for free and register on the meetup's tab. Don't be a silly goose....Download the Dental Practice Heroes App today and access all the free resources available to you. (Awesome Android ppl Click Here)Take Control of Your Practice and Your LifeWe help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams.Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Aug 11, 2025 • 16min
The Three Essential Conversations Every Dental Practice Owner Must Master
True leadership in dental practice means empowering your team through the right conversations rather than trying to be the answer person for everything. Mastering three key conversation types – vision, accountability, and problem-solving – can solve 95% of practice problems and prevent owner burnout.• Vision conversations connect daily tasks to meaningful patient outcomes and team benefits• Creating purpose helps team members understand their work impacts patients' overall health and quality of life• Accountability conversations establish clear expectations and maintain practice standards• "You will get what you tolerate" – addressing small issues prevents them from becoming destructive habits• Focus on specific behaviors rather than making assumptions about the person• Problem-solving conversations involve the team in finding solutions together• Collaborative approach increases buy-in and implementation success• Create psychological safety for team members to share ideas without fear• Recommended resources: "Start With Why" (Sinek), "Crucial Accountability," and "No Bullshit Leadership"• Don't wait for perfection – having these conversations consistently is more important than doing them perfectlyIf you want a practice where your team handles day-to-day management while you take time off, we have the experience to show you how to do it.Free Webinar this wednesday on the Dental Practice Heroes App. Download the App from the App store for free and register on the meetup's tab. Don't be a silly goose....Download the Dental Practice Heroes App today and access all the free resources available to you. (Awesome Android ppl Click Here)Take Control of Your Practice and Your LifeWe help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams.Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Aug 7, 2025 • 27min
Secrets to Keep Your Practice Running On Time
Running behind every day isn’t normal — it’s a systems problem. From scheduling to delayed exams, this episode explores what causes chaos in dental practices and simple fixes that can get the whole office running smoothly again.Our tips and tricks will help you time hygiene exams, handle emergencies, and create a culture that keeps everyone on time. If your days feel like a game of catch-up, this episode is for you!Topics discussed in this episode:How running behind impacts patients and your teamWhy so many offices fall off scheduleSystems that keep hygiene appointments on timeSmart scheduling and team communicationCreating a culture that values timelinessHow to plan for patient emergenciesWhat to do when you’re running behind Free Webinar this wednesday on the Dental Practice Heroes App. Download the App from the App store for free and register on the meetup's tab. Don't be a silly goose....Download the Dental Practice Heroes App today and access all the free resources available to you. (Awesome Android ppl Click Here)Take Control of Your Practice and Your LifeWe help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams.Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Aug 4, 2025 • 37min
A Dentist's Embezzlement Nightmare and Recovery with Josh Cochran
Embezzlement usually starts with someone “you’d never suspect.” Dr. Josh Cochran thought he was building a strong team after opening his practice, but the financials told a different story. In this episode, he shares why it took him so long to realize his employee was embezzling, the red flags he missed, and how he would do things differently today. Learn what systems to put in place to protect your business and the most effective way to prevent embezzlement in your practice!Topics discussed in this episode:Two things you need to learn in your practiceDr. Cochran’s early mistakesCommon red flags of embezzlementHow he addressed the embezzlement in his practiceWriting exercise for managing stressThe emotional impact of embezzlementHow to prevent embezzlementConnect with Dr. Josh Cochran:https://www.youtube.com/@TheDr.JoshCochranShowFree Webinar this wednesday on the Dental Practice Heroes App. Download the App from the App store for free and register on the meetup's tab. Don't be a silly goose....Download the Dental Practice Heroes App today and access all the free resources available to you. (Awesome Android ppl Click Here)Take Control of Your Practice and Your LifeWe help dentists take more time off while making more money through systematization, team empowerment, and creating leadership teams.Ready to build a practice that works for you? Visit www.DentalPracticeHeroes.com to learn more.

Jul 30, 2025 • 16min
Is Your Team Lazy? or is it YOU? How to Drive Profits through Engagement
Feeling burnt out? It's not just you—it's your team, too. Discover how powerlessness leads to disengagement and resentment. Learn how a leadership shift can transform your staff from passive workers to proactive owners. Implement strategies for genuine ownership without losing control. Plus, find out the key question that ignites engagement in one-on-ones. Create a culture of collaborative ownership and watch your practice thrive!


