The Dental App - Cloud based practice management software
Simplify Dentistry
Dr. Lior Tamir joins Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan to share his journey from clinician to software founder and practice owner. He discusses the gaps in traditional practice management systems, why dentistry needs true CRM/PRM tools, and how The Dental App helps practices streamline operations, improve follow-up, and drive predictable growth. A must-listen for dentists who want to simplify their workflow, increase efficiency, and run more profitable, human-centered practices. Featured Discussion Topics: CRM vs. PMS vs. PRM in dentistry How practices lose revenue without realizing it Automation and...
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Why you need a great dental lawyer - A chat with Robert Montgomery
Simplify Dentistry
Our guest today is Rob Montgomery, an attorney focused on dental legal solutions and a co-host of the Dental Amigos podcast. Rob joins us to discuss the critical legal, operational, and personal aspects of your dental practice. The conversation dives deep into the complex world of selling a dental practice, focusing on the common pitfalls when dealing with buyers. Rob emphasizes that happiness in a sale is not always about squeezing the highest valuation. He cautions practitioners against partnering with buyers who will ultimately make them miserable for the next five years, stressing the...
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Strategic HR: A conversation with Kara Kelley
Simplify Dentistry
Join Dr. Richard Offutt as he sits down with Kara Kelley, founder and CEO of Clinical HR, to discuss how dental practices can strengthen their teams and reduce turnover through strategic HR. Kara shares how culture, compliance, and communication can be powerful tools for recruitment and retention—especially in today’s competitive dental job market. Learn why “competing with culture” matters more than competing on pay, how to create systems that support your people, and how simple communication can transform team loyalty and performance. Episode Navigation 00:00 –...
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A journey through modern oral surgery practices with Drs. Bart and Brian Farrell
Simplify Dentistry
Join our hosts, as they sit down with Drs. Bart and Brian Farrell to discuss their journey into oral surgery, practice growth strategies, and insights into modern surgical techniques. The Farrell brothers share valuable perspectives on leadership, practice management, and the evolution of oral surgery in today's healthcare landscape. Episode Navigation 00:00 - Introduction and welcome 01:07 - Path to dentistry and oral surgery 03:02 - Evolution of surgical techniques 11:31 - Impact of technology on practice 18:43 - Practice growth and equity partnerships 27:53 - Leadership lessons learned...
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The Truth About Dental Growth: Marketing, Front Desk Conversions, and Practice Potential with Gary Bird
Simplify Dentistry
Join Dr. Murtuza Shah-Khan and Dr. Richard Offutt as they sit down with Gary Bird, founder of SMC National and host of Dental Marketing GOAT. In this no-fluff conversation, Gary breaks down the real barriers that hold dental practices back from growth—from marketing missteps to front desk inefficiencies. Learn how to convert more leads, improve patient experience, and think like a modern dental business. Episode Navigation 00:00 – Welcome and guest intro 01:45 – Why most dental marketing fails 04:05 – Referral patients vs. marketing patients 08:00 – Breaking through the dental...
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The Future of Dentistry: AI, Practice Culture, and Industry Trends with Dr. Pamela Maragliano
Simplify Dentistry
Join Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan and Dr. Richard Offut as they discuss the evolving landscape of dentistry with Dr. Pamela Maragliano, Chief Editor of Dental Economics. From AI implementation to practice culture and staffing challenges, this episode provides valuable insights into current industry trends and practical solutions for modern dental practices. Episode Navigation 00:00 - Introduction and welcome 00:32 - Dr. Pam's dual role as practice owner and chief editor 01:37 - Current dental industry trends 03:02 - Discussion on AI in dentistry 07:44 - Remineralization technologies 10:58 -...
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Membership plans: DentalHQ, Dr. Brett Wells
Simplify Dentistry
In this episode of Simplify Dentistry, host Dr. Richard Offutt sits down with Dr. Brett Wells of Wells Family Dental Group. Brett shares his journey of building a patient-centered, multi-location practice in Raleigh, North Carolina, while balancing growth, leadership, and family life. From creating trust-based relationships to navigating the challenges of expansion, Brett offers wisdom for dentists who want to grow without losing sight of their values. Episode Navigation 00:00 – Welcome and introduction 01:25 –Brett’s journey into dentistry and building his practice 05:40 – Why...
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Dr. Paul Etchison: Dental Heroes, taking your practice to the next level
Simplify Dentistry
In this episode of Simplify Dentistry, hosts Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan and Dr. Richard Offutt welcome Dr. Paul Etchison—practicing dentist, author of Dental Practice Hero, and host of the Dental Practice Heroes podcast. Paul shares his journey of building a thriving multi-doctor practice, the systems that created freedom instead of chaos, and the leadership lessons that help dentists design practices that serve both their patients and their lives. Episode Navigation 00:00 – Welcome and introduction 01:42 – Paul’s early journey and practice growth 05:10 – Why systems equal freedom...
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Dental Entrepreneurs and the Growth Journey with Perrin DesPortes: Next Level Executive
Simplify Dentistry
In this special roundtable episode of Simplified Dentistry, Dr. Murtuza Shah-Khan, Dr. Mustafa Shah-Khan and Dr. Richard Offutt are joined by dental industry veteran Perrin DesPortes (Co-Founder of Polaris Healthcare Partners) for a live Q&A-style discussion on leadership, group practice growth, mentorship, and the financial realities of scaling as a dental entrepreneur. Whether you're solo and curious about expansion, or navigating the transition from hands-on clinician to strategic CEO, this candid conversation delivers practical wisdom with humor and heart. Episode...
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Digital Dentistry to Imagen: Advice from Dr. Richard Rosenblatt of CDOCS
Simplify Dentistry
Join us for an insightful discussion with Dr. Richard Rosenblatt, a leader in CAD CAM and digital dentistry. Dr. Rosenblatt shares his journey from New Jersey to becoming a prominent educator at CDOCS, his experience growing a successful practice, and valuable insights on practice leadership, mentorship, and maintaining work-life balance in dentistry. Learn practical strategies for practice growth, team building, and implementing effective bonus systems. Episode Navigation 00:14 - Introduction to Dr. Richard Rosenblatt 00:51 - Personal background and early career 02:25 - Lessons from...
info_outlineJoin Dr. Richard Offutt as he sits down with Kara Kelley, founder and CEO of Clinical HR, to discuss how dental practices can strengthen their teams and reduce turnover through strategic HR. Kara shares how culture, compliance, and communication can be powerful tools for recruitment and retention—especially in today’s competitive dental job market.
Learn why “competing with culture” matters more than competing on pay, how to create systems that support your people, and how simple communication can transform team loyalty and performance.
Episode Navigation
00:00 – Welcome and guest introduction
01:15 – How Kara found her way into HR and dentistry
03:25 – The evolution of HR awareness in dental practices
06:30 – What today’s employees actually want from benefits
09:30 – Balancing rising costs and team expectations
11:20 – Using HR as a recruitment and retention tool
13:15 – Building culture and compliance together
15:25 – Competing with DSOs through culture, not dollars
18:40 – Retaining employees in a shifting job market
20:35 – Educating your team on total compensation and benefits
23:10 – The importance of recognition and appreciation
25:30 – Lessons Kara wishes she had learned sooner
28:00 – Final thoughts and how to access Kara’s free resource
Key Takeaways
Strategic HR Matters
- HR isn’t just paperwork—it’s a foundation for team culture and stability.
- Awareness of HR compliance has grown; small practices must stay informed.
Culture Over Compensation
- You can’t always compete on pay, but you can compete on culture.
- Flexibility, appreciation, and communication often outweigh raises.
Retention Through Recognition
- Employees stay where they feel valued and supported.
- Consistent feedback and appreciation improve morale and loyalty.
Education & Transparency
- Use total compensation statements to show the full value of employment.
- Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and builds trust.
Featured Discussion Topics
- The evolution of HR in dentistry
- Recruiting and retaining dental teams
- Competing with DSOs and corporate practices
- Culture, compliance, and communication
- Total compensation and employee education
- Recognition and leadership in dental practices
Meet Our Guest
Kara Kelley is the founder and CEO of Clinical HR, a consulting firm that helps dental practice owners build compliant, people-first teams. With a background in HR and business development, Kara specializes in strategic solutions that help dentists recruit, retain, and engage great employees.
Connect With Simplify Dentistry
Website: simplifydds.com
Podcast: Available on all major platforms
Topics: dental HR, team retention, dental culture, employee appreciation, HR compliance, dental recruiting, leadership in dentistry, practice management, dental business strategy